eTurboNews:

This year, Sandals Resorts International (SRI), parent company of the Caribbean’s leading luxury all-inclusive resort brands Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts, and its Luxury Included® Resorts took home 5 awards, including the coveted Best All-Inclusive Hotel Chain, Caribbean, for Sandals Resorts and Best Hotel Brand for Families, Caribbean, for Beaches Resorts.

“Awards are always a tremendous honor, but these awards are made all the more special due to the travel advisor voting committee,” said Gary C. Sadler, Executive Vice President of Sales & Industry Relations for Unique Vacations, Inc. (UVI), an affiliate of the worldwide representative of Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts. “For more than 40 years, travel advisors have been our stalwart partners in our journey to excellence. And just as we’ve invested in our award-winning resorts, we’ve invested in them too- we succeed and grow together. Thank you again to the TravelAge West team and the entire travel advisor community for the incredible accolades.”

The gala event held on June 8, 2023, in Los Angeles, California, was attended by a number of UVI’s sales executives, including Garth Laird, Vice President of Trade Sales.

Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts were named winners in 5 distinct categories:

• All-Inclusive Hotel/Resort Chain Providing the Best Travel Advisor Support – Sandals Resorts
• Best All-Inclusive Hotel Chain, Caribbean – Sandals Resorts
• Best New Resort or Major Renovation, Caribbean – Sandals Royal Curaçao
• Best All-Inclusive Resort Brand for Romance, Caribbean – Sandals Resorts
• Best Hotel Brand for Families, Caribbean – Beaches Resorts

Every year, the editorial team at TravelAge West, headed by Editor-in-Chief Ken Shapiro, reviews hundreds of travel suppliers and products through product analysis, on-site visits, a travel agent survey and online research. After careful consideration, a list of “Editor’s Pick” nominees, in a variety of categories are confirmed. Nominees are then placed on an official WAVE ballot, which is printed in the magazine, posted online and promoted in email communications to travel advisors throughout the United States.

Read more: Waves of Success: Sandals Resorts International Wins Big

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The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the winners of the 2023 edition of the IATA Diversity & Inclusion Awards.

• Inspirational Role Model: Poppy Khoza – Director of Civil Aviation, South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA)

• High Flyer: Camila Turrieta – Chair of the Diversity, Equity, Belonging, and Inclusion Committee, Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), and First Officer, JetBlue Airways

• Diversity & Inclusion Team: Virgin Atlantic Airways

“In their fourth year, the IATA Diversity & Inclusion Awards play an important role in recognizing the work done by those who go above and beyond in engraining diversity and inclusion in the aviation industry. Through breaking taboos to introducing innovations and changing the status quo, this year’s winners exemplify the true nature of the industry: resilience, persistence and unhindered motivation to drive change,” said Karen Walker, Editor in Chief, Air Transport World and chair of the judging panel.

The other members of the judging panel include the winners of the 2022 awards: Güliz Öztürk, CEO, Pegasus Airlines; Kanchana Gamage, Founder and Director of the Aviatrix Project, and Alina Aronberga, SVP Human Resources, airBaltic.

“I congratulate the winners of the 2023 awards. By their example, they are leading the way to a gender balanced aviation industry. They have pushed boundaries to demonstrate that diversity and inclusion is fundamental to business success. Congratulations to three truly inspirational winners. Women are still under-represented in aviation, but with the help and example of these and previous award winners, we are making progress,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Qatar Airways is the sponsor of the Diversity & Inclusion Awards for the fifth consecutive year. Each winner receives a prize of $25,000, payable to the winner in each of the categories or to their nominated charities.

The 2023 IATA Diversity & Inclusion Awards were presented during the World Air Transport Summit (WATS) which followed the 79th IATA Annual General Meeting in Istanbul, Türkiye.

Profiles:

• Inspirational Role Model: Poppy Khoza – Director of Civil Aviation, South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA)

The international respect for Poppy Khoza was evident in her unanimous election to serve as President for the 41st Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization in 2022. She was the first ever woman to hold that role in ICAO’s 78-year history.
At SACAA, Khoza’s work focuses on providing equal opportunities for women and she has led the transformation of the organization which now boasts women in 50% of executive roles. In her work, Khoza spares no effort in mentoring and coaching other women to challenge the status quo and create a more gender balanced aviation industry.

She is the recipient of numerous awards including the Aviation Sector and Regional Leader Award, Best Chief Executive Officer Award (2015 and 2018). She was also named the Business Leader of the Year during the annual Oliver Empowerment Awards (2018).

• High Flyer: Camila Turrieta – Chair of the Diversity, Equity, Belonging, and Inclusion Committee, Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), and First Officer, JetBlue Airways

At ALPA, Turrieta is the voice for diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives for the Association’s 63,000 pilots at 40 airlines. She leads ALPA’s efforts to use gender inclusive terms, expand the Association’s anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policy to promote an environment of inclusiveness in the piloting profession. This led to the FAA requesting her assistance in creating an inclusive culture through positive regulatory changes within the aviation sector.

Camila is a leader and mentor through her work with non-profit affinity organizations such as the Latino Pilots Association, Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, Women in Aviation, and the International Society of Women Airline Pilots which have the common goal of promoting the piloting profession to underrepresented and marginalized communities.

All this led Camila to receive the President’s Call to Service Award under former US Presidents George W Bush and Barack Obama.

• Diversity & Inclusion Team: Virgin Atlantic Airways

Virgin Atlantic Airways is a true pioneer in the area of diversity, equity and inclusion. To support the refresh of the airline’s “Be Yourself” strategy, the company introduced bold changes which included:

• Revising policies to allow visible tattoos while in uniform,

Read more: 2023 Winners of IATA Diversity & Inclusion Awards Announced

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The winners of the prestigious Edmonton Tourism Awards 2023 have been announced, recognizing exceptional contributions to the city’s tourism scene. Hosted by Edmonton Destination Marketing Hotels (EDMH) and their brand Edmonton’s Best Hotels (EBH), these awards celebrate individuals and organizations that have played a pivotal role in promoting Edmonton as a premier travel destination. The inaugural ceremony was held Friday, June 2, 2023, at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Edmonton South Conference Centre to a sell-out audience.

“The Edmonton Tourism Awards is a day of recognition, appreciation, respect, and paying tribute to a job well done. We are delighted to host this celebration and applaud the Best of Edmonton in the tourism industry,” said Barnie Yerxa, Chair of EDMH.

The winners of the Edmonton Tourism Awards 2023 are:

• Sustainable Tourism Award: River Valley Alliance
• The River Valley Alliance’s dedication to sustainable practices and preserving the natural beauty of the river valley has made a significant impact on tourism in Edmonton.
• Sporting Event of the Year Award: Summer of Dodgeball, Dodgeball Canada
• Dodgeball Canada’s Summer of Dodgeball enthralled sports enthusiasts, showcasing the exhilarating spirit of dodgeball while creating memorable experiences for participants and spectators.
• Great Place to Work Tourism Award: YEG: Edmonton International Airport
• YEG has been acknowledged as a Great Place to Work, providing travelers with exceptional services, facilities, and amenities, ensuring seamless and enjoyable travel experiences.
• Tourism Business of the Year Award (Small Business): Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market
• The Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market has captivated visitors with its vibrant atmosphere, diverse offerings, and commitment to supporting local producers.
• Tourism Business of the Year Award (Large Business): Fort Edmonton Management Company-Fort Edmonton Park
• Fort Edmonton Park has set the standard for excellence with immersive historical experiences, engaging activities, and dedication to preserving Edmonton’s rich heritage.
• Best in Class Customer Service Award: Winspear Centre for Music/Edmonton Symphony Orchestra
• Winspear Centre for Music and the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra have been recognized for their exceptional customer service, enhancing visitors’ experiences with their commitment to excellence.
• Outstanding Contributor to the Community Tourism Award (Tie): The Edmonton Elks and OEG Sports and Entertainment
• The Edmonton Elks and OEG Sports and Entertainment have contributed significantly to the community, enriching tourism through their commitment to promoting Edmonton as a vibrant, welcoming destination.
• Cultural Experience Award: Fort Edmonton Park
• Fort Edmonton Park offers immersive cultural experiences that transport visitors through time, showcasing Edmonton’s history and heritage.
• Attraction of the Year Award (Tie): West Edmonton Mall and Muttart Conservatory
• West Edmonton Mall and Muttart Conservatory have both been recognized as the Attraction of the Year, providing visitors unique offerings and world-class experiences.
• Event of the Year Award: Taste of Edmonton
• Taste of Edmonton has been celebrated as the Event of the Year, tantalizing taste buds and delighting visitors with exceptional culinary offerings, live entertainment, and vibrant atmosphere.
• Hotelier Lifetime Achievement Award (Tie): Tina Tobin and Grant McCurdy
• Tina Tobin and Grant McCurdy have both received the esteemed Hotelier Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing their remarkable contributions, leadership, and dedication to enhancing Edmonton’s hospitality industry.

The Edmonton Tourism Awards celebrate the unwavering passion and dedication of these deserving winners in making Edmonton a world-class travel destination. Their outstanding achievements continue to elevate the city’s tourism industry and foster unforgettable experiences for visitors from around the globe.

The Edmonton Tourism Awards would like to acknowledge our partners: Explore Edmonton, OEG Sports and Entertainment, YEG: International Airport, Global Edmonton, Edify Magazine, the Alberta Counsel, and the Blackhawk Network.

Read more: Edmonton Tourism Awards Honors Outstanding Achievements

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eTurboNews:

Professionals from across the global business events industry were honoured at the IMEX Frankfurt Gala Dinner Awards at the Alte Oper Frankfurt last night.

As part of IMEX Frankfurt taking place this week, the awards brought together meeting and event professionals in a glittering gathering to celebrate the achievements, innovation and passion of individuals within the industry.

The awards:

• Destinations International Global Ambassador Award
• International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) International Excellence Award
• International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) Driving Excellence – Innovation Award
• International Congress & Convention Association (ICCA) Global Influencer Award
• Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC) Unity Award
• Meeting Professionals International (MPI) Foundation Student Scholarship Award
• Jane E. Schuldt Society for Incentive Travel Executives (SITE) Master Motivator Award
• IMEX Events Industry Council (EIC) Innovation in Sustainability Award
• Paul Flackett IMEX Academy Awards

Destinations International President and CEO Don Welsh was warmly welcomed on stage to present the Global Ambassador Award to Yrjötapio Kivisaari, CEO of Visit Oulu. Yrjötapio’s commitment to developing a global community and providing leadership on sustainability has led to the city being crowned European Capital of Culture for 2026.

The roll of honor continued with the IAEE International Excellence Award, presented by IAEE’s Director of Global Business Development, Karen Gonzales, to the Macao Trade & Investment Promotion Institute (IPIM). IPIM works directly with the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade as IAEE’s Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) Learning Program partner in China and, thanks to the success of the program, Macao is one of the CEM Learning Program’s top performing regions.

IAPCO’s Driving Excellence – Innovation Award celebrates those at the forefront of innovation and Audrey Alloul, Chief Digital Officer of Kenes, was a fitting winner. Audrey developed Unlok, an AI-powered video library of content to enable knowledge exchange. IAPCO President, Sarah Markey-Hamm, presented the award.

Isabel Bardinet, CEO of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), added the ICCA Global Influencer Award to her impressive roll call of awards. ICCA President, Marta Gomes, presented the award which celebrates an outstanding contribution to the association meetings industry. Isabel’s wide-ranging 35-year career has seen her move from organizing governmental congresses in Paris to being named as one of the ‘25 most influential people in the meetings industry.’ She’s held many senior positions including Director at Palais des Congrès, CEO of the European Society of Cardiology, and President of the AC Forum.

JMIC President, James Rees presided over the JMIC Unity Award, given to Pier Paolo Mariotti, Certified Meeting Manager at Eurac Research. Pier Paolo has been involved in the meetings industry for almost 40 years and has made a significant contribution to its growth and development. Among others, Pier Paolo played a crucial role in the CityDNA Summer School for 15 years, educating and upskilling close to 1,000 newcomers in Europe and South Africa.

Next, the awards looked ahead to the event professionals of the future: Kewalin Suraphanpirosh from Thammasat University in Thailand won the MPI Foundation Student Scholarship Award, which celebrates and supports the next generation of meeting planners as part of the IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forum International University Challenge. It was fitting that MPI President and CEO Paul Van Deventer presented the award, with MPI leading the charge in supporting young talent.

One of our industry’s most valued skills is the ability to motivate, and it was the duty of SITE CEO Annette Gregg to hand over the Jane E. Schuldt SITE Master Motivator Award to Michael Freedman, Vice President, Meetings & Events at Amstar DMC. During Michael’s almost 15 years with the company, Amstar DMC has grown to become a go-to solution across the many destinations it serves, picking up two prestigious SITE Crystal Awards at SITE’s recent global conference in New York City.

The IMEX EIC Innovation in Sustainability Award shines the light on sustainability success achieved through a deliberate focus on innovation and creative thinking. Destination Canada won the hotly contested award, presented by EIC’s CEO Amy Calvert to Virginie De Visscher, Senior Director of Business Events at Destination Canada for its Canadian Business Events Sustainability Plan. This first of its kind national program embodies SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) and is paving the way toward economic, social and environmental sustainability for tourism and business events.

The Paul Flackett IMEX Academy Awards, named in tribute to the former IMEX Managing Director, were a fitting climax to the dinner. Four outstanding individuals were recognized for their long-term commitment to the industry and for pushing boundaries around innovation.

The 2023 roll call is:

• Ulrike Von Arnold, Deputy Director, Vienna Convention Bureau
• David Kliman, Founder and President, The Kliman Group
• Mary Casey, Enterprise Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Maritz Global Events
• Tatsuo Arai, Managing Director Corporate Office, MCI Japan – Japan Convention Services

Carina Bauer, IMEX Group CEO, said: “The amazing roster of Academy Award winners shows the sheer breadth of talent, innovation and professionalism that our industry is renowned for. A huge congratulations to everyone championed at last night’s Gala Dinner and what a way to launch into the fourth and final day of IMEX Frankfurt.”

Gala dinner sponsors are: Song Division (live music) and Cvent (event registration software provider).

IMEX Frankfurt takes place May 23-25, 2023. To register click here. 

Click here to schedule your FREE Photo / Video Interview with eTurboNews during IMEX. And visit us at Stand # F477.

eTurboNews is a media partner for IMEX.

Read more: Championing the Best at IMEX Frankfurt Gala Dinner Awards

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eTurboNews:

UNWTO began in 1925 as the International Congress of Official Tourist Traffic Associations. The International Union of Official Travel Organizations (IUOTO) was renamed in 1947. It was reorganized in 1975 as the World Tourism Organization, which became a UN Specialized Agency in 2003.

The UNWTO is headquartered in Madrid, Spain. UNWTO is governed by its General Assembly, which meets every two years.

Nigerian Lucky George is an icon in the African travel and tourism industry, a long-time publisher of African Travel Times, the Executive Director at the African Travel Commission [ATC], and one of the first members of the World Tourism Network.

Juergen Steinmetz is the publisher of eTurboNews and the founder and chairman of the World Tourism Network. He is also the Hon. founding chairman of the African Tourism Board. Lucky George and Juergen Steinmetz gave the keynote opening speeches at the launch of the African Tourism Board in 2018 in Capetown.

Both publishers have a decades-long history following UNWTO, the World Tourism Organization.

Lucky George is the man behind World Tourism Day. He shared his fascinating story with Juergen Steinmetz in a public conversation last week entitled “It’s Time To Reform The United Nations World Tourism Organisation.”

Lucky explained:

Due to the disconnect between the United Nations World Tourism Organisation [UNWTO], a specialized agency of the United Nations in the field of travel and tourism since 2003, and some of its members, I, Lucky Onoriode George, 2006 Winner of the European Commission Lorenzo Natali Prize for Journalists Reporting Human Rights and Democracy engaged Juergen Steinmetz, Publisher, eTurboNews on the way forward for the UNWTO.

Here is a transcript of this conversation

Lucky George:  Good morning, Juergen

Juergen Steinmetz: Good evening, George from Hawaii. How are you?

Lucky George:  Lagos is fine.

Juergen Steinmetz: I’ve never been to Lagos. I made it to Abuja once and was there for the Commonwealth Tourism Conference. It was a really good experience, I have to say, and I loved the way the women dressed in their colorful clothes. Also, the men, I mean, everyone dressed well, and it’s really like a different world.

Lucky George: Juergen, I guess you enjoyed your stay overall besides that, the people are very colorful and flamboyant.

Juergen Steinmetz: One thing that has stuck in my head since that visit and a significant lesson is that I will never have a desert in the dark anymore.

We were at the Abuja Sheraton Hotel for dinner, and your minister was speaking, and they had problems with the electricity. When the electricity went off, I was at the buffet trying to get a dessert. In the dark, I grabbed something, thinking it was a desert, and put it into my mouth for a bite. It was a glass thing, and I almost screamed after biting on it in the dark.

Lucky George: What a terrible experience.

Juergen Steinmetz: I will never forget that moment and swore never to try such an exercise in the dark again.

Lucky George: I think it’s a good idea.

Juergen Steinmetz: Desserts aren’t good anyway, you know, they have too much sugar, and it’s not good, so forget it.

Lucky George: Absolutely. Yeah.

Juergen Steinmetz:  I guess we were going to discuss the United Nations World Tourism Organization [UNWTO] as you requested, do we?

Lucky George: Yes, Juergen!
You and I know the UNWTO very well, but few people know the history. However, in fact, I was privileged to have been introduced to a man known as Ignatius Amaduwa Atigbi, former Secretary General of the then Nigeria Tourist Association, now the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation [NTDC], an apex tourism agency in Nigeria.

I became his student because I was willing to listen to his stories of how he began his career as a journalist with Reuters in West Africa and later to Fleet Street in London.

From there on, I was educated on the history and the formation of the UNWTO and, the institutionalization of the World Tourism Day Celebration, the formation of the United Nations in Acapulco, Mexico, in 1970.

True, the African Travel Commission [ATC], which decided that their members should continue to receive government support, the status of the International Union of Official Travel Organisation [IUOTO] based in France must change.

How was UNWTO formed?

The members agreed to it, and the chair asked if any lawyer was in the house to guide them. Behold, the only lawyer present was a Nigerian named Odubayo, a staff member of the Nigerian Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

He drafted an agreement that was voted on by members. By 2 am on September 27th, 1970, the motion of renaming IOUTO to the World Tourism Organisation [WTO] was adopted.

Juergen Steinmetz: I didn’t know that. That’s so fascinating.

Lucky George: Yes. And I have the documents, the minutes of meetings.

Juergen Steinmetz: Wow, it’s all new to me.
But you have been in the travel and tourism business longer than I have. I started in the travel business in 1978, but I was more in the practical part. I wasn’t involved in organizations.

My first job was in Morocco, in Africa. I was a tour guide, not a tour guide, but I sold land arrangements to German tourists on a cruise ship for Morocco. So that was my very first job. So, I had no worries with the board and tourism organization.

How did World Tourism Day Started?

Lucky George: That is the story and journey of today’s UNWTO. However, by 1971 in Ankara, Turkey, at the XXII General Assembly Meeting of IUOTO, the African Commission, under the leadership of Nigeria’s Ignatius Amaduwa Atigbi, proposed that September 27th, being the date that transformation of IUOTO to WTO was made possible be set aside and commemorated annually as World Tourism Day.

So, the idea is to commemorate the achievement and look at the necessary adjustments that need to be made.

Juergen Steinmetz: Interesting!

Lucky George: Despite this firsthand account story, there was no document to corroborate the tourism agency’s voices. 

We don’t have any of the documents. So, I took it as a challenge, and I decided to travel from Lagos to Spain on a visit.

Then luckily for me, I have been communicating with a Slovenian guy who was the head of the UNWTO communications department at that time.

I wrote to him and informed him of my intention to come to Spain to seek evidence that Atigbi was the man who proposed the celebration of World Tourism Day in his capacity as the Chairman of the African Travel Commission [ATC].

He was skeptical, though, but he promised to help me once I arrived in Madrid, which was precisely what he did.

We’re looking at the minutes of meetings. Luckily, we first stumbled upon a copy of the minutes of the meeting of 1971 in French, where the history was well documented, and behold; we also located the English version.

That was how I returned home (Nigeria) to the tourism agency and the ministry with my findings. In summary, I instigated that a letter be written to the Secretary General of the UNWTO at that time and demand that the African guy deserves to be remembered and celebrated.

Gladly, there was no objection to Nigeria’s call, and UNWTO, under Secretary General Dr. Taleb Rifai, wrote back to the ministry and promised to honor Late Ignatius Amaduwa Atigbi at the 2009 International World Tourism Day Celebration that was hosted by Ghana.

The Story Behind UNWTO and World Tourism Day

Juergen, that was the story behind the UNWTO and World Tourism Day Celebration.

Juergen Steinmetz: Incredible!

Lucky George: To cap it all, the Nigerian government, through the Federal Ministry of Culture and Tourism, congratulated me and the sum of N200.000. You know I love African tourism, and I guess you still recollect my Zimbabwe exploits.

And, of course, you knew very well when the trouble started in Zimbabwe, I was the one that was contacted by the Chief Executive Officer of Zimbabwe Tourism Authority [ZTA], the late Karigoke Kaseke, who wanted me to come to Zimbabwe with some journalists from around the world.

Juergen Steinmetz: Sure!

Lucky George: I invited you, as the Publisher of eTurboNews, to come, but you eventually sent your Editor in Chief at that time, Nelson Alcantara, and we were in Zimbabwe for 18 days.

Then two or three years later, Zimbabwe co-hosted the UNWTO General Assembly Meeting with Zambia at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Livingstone in Zambia.

That massive turn of events was because of the groundwork that you and I used our platforms to change.

Again, sadly, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority and the ministry failed to pay me the balance of the agreed fee for my services. Shameful!!!

The CNN Task Group and eTurboNews

Juergen Steinmetz: You know my story well with the UNWTO and CNN Task Group. We were the ones who brought CNN into the picture because Anita Mendiratta, who was based in Cape Town, South Africa, didn’t know many of the other people, and we started introducing her to people.

Though, the idea was really that at the end, we were going to get major advertising and thought, this is great.

CNN did well. Anita wrote many excellent articles on eTurboNews. We profiled organizations, initiatives, and individuals. But unfortunately, we never got any share in the advertising.

Lucky George: I know Anita Mendiratta very well. Our last encounter was a bitter one in the Gambia. I saved the Gambia $1.5 million in World Bank tourism funding that the country director was willing to part with for a bogus publicity contract with CNN that I wrestled.

Anyway, that is a story for another day.

Juergen Steinmetz: Yeah, yeah, yeah. You know my story with UNWTO.

Lucky George: Absolutely. Absolutely. The big question is how do we make the UNWTO function with other UN specialized agencies, where each continent would have tenured representatives like the World Health Organization [WHO] and International Labour Organisation [ILO] from all the continents instead of relying on career directors whose interest are their benefits.

Juergen Steinmetz: You are right.

Lucky George: All reputable UN agencies work closely with local and international media, including the UNWTO. They usually don’t pick up calls or reply to emails.

Juergen Steinmetz: No, they don’t.

Lucky George: It’s sad, but we cannot continue to tolerate the excesses of the UNWTO.

Juergen Steinmetz: You have a very valid point. I have had the same experience with them over the years.  Maybe mine has different reasons, but Marcelo Risi, the media guy, has not responded to anything ever since he got his new boss.

Since Zurab Pololikashvili took over, I have not had any phone calls.

UNWTO has banned me from attending their press conferences, specifically at the World Travel Market, where we are an official media partner, and I couldn’t attend. They had hired a bodyguard standing there with my photo in his hand to ensure I didn’t get into the hall.

So, they’re not inclusive in any way. They don’t like criticism, and they don’t respond to criticism. And I guess he (Zurab) can make any decision he wants. And no one cares.

It is sad because even when you look at the general assemblies and the other events they have, their members, many of the ministers, as you rightfully said, change all the time. The new ones from many countries don’t know what the old ministers did.

Lucky George:  So, Juergen, what do we do? Most African countries use UNWTO events as leisure trips and are paid for by their government, of which Nigeria is one.

Juergen Steinmetz: And it’s probably not only in Africa because there is a similar situation in many countries around the world, and if you don’t have the more prominent players, and I’m talking about the UK, the United States, Canada among others, the UNWTO will remain a ragtag agency of the UN.

Lucky George: It’s a mess.

Read more: Exposed! UNWTO 1971 Ankara Minutes on World Tourism Day

Copyright: eTurboNews is Travel Industry News - Travel & Tourism Story Telling Exposed

eTurboNews:

IMEX America 2022 has been recognized as the fastest growing trade show in the US. The IMEX Group was awarded the accolade at Trade Show Executive’s Fastest 50 Awards & Summit, with the Las Vegas-based show taking first place for fastest growing show in North America by number of exhibitors. The show, which took place October 10 – 13 2022, was also recognized in a number of other award categories and ranked:

• 38th for growth in net sq ft
• 49th by number of exhibitors
• 68th by total attendance

Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group, says:

“IMEX America has grown substantially since its launch in 2011, in no small part thanks to the hard work, dedication and sheer passion of the team here in the UK and our partners in the US.”

“We’re thrilled with this national recognition placing our show as the fastest growing trade show in the whole of North America in 2022.”

“Last year’s edition of IMEX America set a new benchmark – it was 45% bigger than the previous year with an additional 1,063 exhibiting companies, plus 40% of returning exhibitors increased their booth space. What’s more, the show was a powerful and uplifting reflection of our industry’s post pandemic bounce back with international exhibitors returning in strong numbers – over 3,300 exhibiting companies from 180+ countries.”

IMEX America continues to be a firm fixture on the schedule of its clients with the show in the top 5 shows ever measured by Explori from an exhibitor perspective in 2021 (out of over 2,000 shows measured by Explori). Last year, the show ranked in the top 1% for overall satisfaction and NPS scores.

Trade Show Executive’s Fastest 50 Awards & Summit took place May 1 – 3 and honored the fastest growing trade shows held in the US.

“The organizers of the Fastest 50 and Next 50 ranked shows are some of the most innovative and adaptable people in the industry,” explains Gabrielle Weiss, Vice President and Editor-in-Chief, Trade Show Executive Media Group. “IMEX America certainly falls in this class with its forward-thinking activations and laser focus on not only the show but on our wider industry. It’s no wonder that this show made our rankings in 2022 and also took home the grand award for Fastest-Growing Show in Sheer Numbers by Exhibiting Companies. Given the saying all ships rise with the tide, our industry is elevated with the creative work of the powerhouse team at IMEX America.”

IMEX America will take place October 17 – 19 at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas. IMEX Frankfurt will be held May 23 – 25.

eTurboNews is a media partner for IMEX.

Read more: IMEX America Fastest Growing Tradeshow in US

Copyright: eTurboNews is Travel Industry News - Travel & Tourism Story Telling Exposed

eTurboNews:

The Caribbean Destination Resilience Award was granted for Jamaica’s recovery efforts during the COVID-19 Pandemic and tourism resilience-building initiatives. The award recognizes destinations with a deliberate focus on resilience as indicated by their commitments to address some or all of the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO’s) 17 sustainable development goals. Special emphasis is placed on highlighting destinations which subscribe to a collaborative and partnership-focused approach, engaging public and private sector stakeholders in innovative, needs-driven strategies.        

Jamaica was at the forefront of thought leadership at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. The island, under the stewardship of the Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Edmund Bartlett, immediately created a COVID-19 Recovery Taskforce with public and private sector stakeholders. Based on the innovative initiatives from this Taskforce, Jamaica reopened its borders in June 2020 and never closed since.

In accepting the award, Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Edmund Bartlett, said:

“This award is for my entire tourism team and all our private and public sector partners who immediately saw the need to keep the lifeblood of the country open.”

“From the minds and hard work of the team, Jamaica was first out of the blocks on the road to recovery.”

Robust health and safety protocols were implemented to help mitigate the spread of the disease. In fact, these protocols received the World Travel and Tourism Council’s ‘Safe Travels’ stamp of approval. With the creation of Resilient Corridors, Jamaica was able to resume tourism activities safely and seamlessly as these designated areas had a strong COVID-19 infrastructure in place.

“It is a pleasure to recognize my home country with this destination resilience award as it validates the countless hours and effort that went into the recovery through our public and private sector partners to ensure the survival of tourism,” said President of the CHTA, Mrs. Nicola Madden-Greig.

“It was no easy feat to reopen our borders in such a short space of time and this award highlights the importance of partnerships in a crisis,” said Director of Tourism, Donovan White. “We’re truly grateful and deeply honored to receive this distinction.”

For more information on Jamaica, please go to www.visitjamaica.com.

ABOUT JAMAICA TOURIST BOARD

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica’s national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. JTB offices are also located in Montego Bay, Miami, Toronto and Germany and London. Representative offices are located in Berlin, Spain, Italy, Mumbai and Tokyo.

In 2022, the JTB was declared ‘World’s Leading Cruise Destination,’ ‘World’s Leading Family Destination’ and ‘World’s Leading Wedding Destination’ by the World Travel Awards, which also named it the ‘Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board’ for the 15th consecutive year; and the ‘Caribbean’s Leading Destination’ for the 17th consecutive year; as well as the ‘Caribbean’s Leading Nature Destination’ and the ‘Caribbean’s Best Adventure Tourism Destination.’ In addition, Jamaica earned seven awards in the prestigious gold and silver categories at the 2022 Travvy Awards, including ‘‘Best Wedding Destination – Overall’, ‘Best Destination – Caribbean,’ ‘Best Culinary Destination – Caribbean,’ ‘Best Tourism Board – Caribbean,’ ‘Best Travel Agent Academy Program,’ ‘Best Cruise Destination – Caribbean’ and ‘Best Wedding Destination – Caribbean.’ Jamaica is home to some of the world’s best accommodations, attractions and service providers that continue to receive prominent global recognition. 

For details on upcoming special events, attractions and accommodations in Jamaica go to the JTB’s Website or call the Jamaica Tourist Board at 1-800-JAMAICA (1-800-526-2422).  Follow the JTB on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube. View the JTB blog.

SEEN IN IMAGE:  The Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism, Jamaica, (2nd from L), holds Jamaica’s Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s (CHTA’s) Destination Resilience Award. Sharing in the moment are (L-R) Mrs. Nicola Madden-Greig, President, CHTA; Ewald Biemens, Owner, Bucuti and Tara Beach Resort, Aruba; Donovan White, Director of Tourism, Jamaica Tourist Board; Kyle Mais, Managing Director, Jamaican Inn; Vanessa Ledesma-Berrios, Acting CEO & Director General, CHTA; Josef Forstmayr, Managing Director, Round Hill Hotel and Villas; Marc Melville, CEO, Chukka Caribbean; and Fiona Fennell, Public Relations and Communications Manager, Jamaica Tourist Board. – image courtesy of Jamaica Tourist Board

Read more: Jamaica Wins Caribbean Destination Resilience Award

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MTV announced that GRAMMY®-nominated band OneRepublic is set to headline Isle of MTV Malta 2023. Now in its 15th year, Europe’s biggest free summer festival, in partnership with the Malta Tourism Authority, returns to the iconic Il-Fosos Square on July 18.

GRAMMY®-nominated OneRepublic, is composed of singer/songwriter and lead vocalist Ryan Tedder, guitarists Zach Filkins and Drew Brown, keys Brian Willett, bassist and cellist Brent Kutzle, and drummer Eddie Fisher. The band’s most recent hit single, “I Ain’t Worried,” was featured in the blockbuster movie Top Gun: Maverick and has an incredible 3B+ streams, adding to their 5B+ Spotify streams and canon of iconic hits such as: “Apologize, “All the Right Moves,” “Counting Stars”, “Good Life” and “Secrets”. OneRepublic’s latest album, Human, was released in August 2021 and features singles “Someday”, “Run”, “Somebody To Love”, “Wanted”, “Didn’t I”, “Better Days” and “Rescue Me”, which have jointly amassed 2.5B+ streams globally.

The band shared their excitement with fans about headlining Isle of MTV Malta in a recent video, “It’s been 15 years since our last performance in Malta with MTV…15 years is way, way, way too long. We can’t wait to get back to this beautiful country!” said OneRepublic.  

“Isle of MTV Malta’s 15th year is going to be bigger than ever as we once again light up il-Fosos Square with epic performances from today’s top artists,” said Bruce Gillmer, President of Music, Music Talent, Programming & Events, Paramount and Chief Content Officer, Music, Paramount+. “OneRepublic are long-time friends of MTV and, after their epic performance at the 2022 MTV EMAs, we can’t wait to see them wow fans in Malta.”

Dr. Gavin Gulia, Chairman of the Malta Tourism Authority shared, “On behalf of the Malta Tourism Authority, we are proud to announce the return of the Isle of MTV concert, for its 15th edition, in Malta.”

“We are excited to welcome talented artists that will be arriving on this island to participate in this upcoming concert.”

“The Isle of MTV has become a fixed appointment in our country’s Calendar of Events, giving an incentive to all those visiting us in July to experience yet another show stopping performance in one of Malta’s most iconic venues.” 

Clayton Bartolo, Malta’s Minister for Tourism, added, “Entertainment is the heartbeat of any thriving community. Isle of MTV has always been of great importance for Malta as it not only brings together thousands of music fans from all over Europe but is a sterling platform to showcase the island’s unique and vibrant entertainment scene. In conjunction with renowned names in the music world, it offers a fantastic opportunity for Maltese artists to exhibit their talents on the international stage which in turn promotes Maltese culture and helps to enhance the island’s rich artistic heritage. It is with this optimistic hindsight that we are looking forward to hosting another musical spectacle to be remembered!”

Over its 14 editions, Isle of MTV Malta has brought tens of thousands of music fans to the square every year to enjoy show stopping performances from the world’s biggest stars, including Lady Gaga, Snoop Dogg, David Guetta and Martin Garrix.

The event will be broadcast on MTV internationally on September 15, 2023, in more than 150 countries across TV, digital and social, showcasing the festival and Malta to millions of music fans around the world.

The festival will be followed by Isle of MTV Malta Music Week, a series of club nights and parties across the hottest venues on the island, from July 18 – July 23. 

Additional performer announcements to follow.

Tickets for Isle of MTV Malta will be available soon. Head to https://www.isleofmtv.com/ and follow @IsleOfMTV on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok to keep up with the latest news from the event.

About Malta

The sunny islands of Malta, in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, are home to a most remarkable concentration of intact built heritage, including the highest density of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in any nation-state anywhere. Valletta, built by the proud Knights of St. John, is one of the UNESCO sites and the European Capital of Culture for 2018. Malta’s patrimony in stone ranges from the oldest free-standing stone architecture in the world, to one of the British Empire’s most formidable defensive systems, and includes a rich mix of domestic, religious and military architecture from the ancient, medieval and early modern periods. With superbly sunny weather, attractive beaches, a thriving nightlife and 8,000 years of intriguing history, there is a great deal to see and do.

For more information on Malta, visit www.visitmalta.com.

About Isle of MTV Malta

Now in its 15th year, past performers at the Isle of MTV Malta include: Bebe Rexha, Jason Derulo, Lady Gaga, Hailee Steinfeld, Sigala, Ava Max, Paloma Faith, The Chainsmokers, DNCE, Steve Aoki, David Guetta, Marshmello, Martin Garrix, Jess Glynne, Nicole Scherzinger, Jessie J, Will.i.am, Rita Ora, Flo Rida, Snoop Dogg, Far East Movement, Kid Rock, Kelis, The Scissor Sisters, The Black Eyed Peas, Nelly Furtado, Maroon 5, Enrique Iglesias, N*E*R*D, and OneRepublic.

For more information on Malta, visit www.isleofmtv.com. 

Read more: Grammy®-Nominated OneRepublic to Headline Isle of MTV Malta

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Minister of Tourism Hon. Edmund Bartlett has been recognized for his stellar contribution to the regional tourism industry. The Minister received the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s prestigious President’s Award for Caribbean Excellence in Tourism during the Travel Forum and Awards luncheon held at Sandals Royal Barbados yesterday (May 9).

“The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association is acutely aware that resilience strengthens Caribbean tourism, and it is a message that has reached all corners of the region and the world largely because of the efforts of one man, the Honorable Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s dynamic Minister of Tourism. This is one of the many reasons why we honour him today,” said President of the CHTA, Mrs. Nicola Madden-Greig.

One of Jamaica Tourism Minister Bartlett’s notable international successes was the establishment of The Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre (GTRCMC), which assembles distinguished international experts to examine resilience from multiple viewpoints, a timely and much needed forum for the examination of the key elements needed to strengthen the region’s major economic driver, tourism. Minister Bartlett stated:

“It is always good to be recognized for your hard work and dedication, but this award is extra special as it is coming from my regional partners who I have worked shoulder to shoulder with for many years to improve our tourism experience and ultimately arrivals and earnings.”

Mr. Bartlett was also cited as an advocate for harmonizing cooperation and collaboration among Caribbean countries and has called for a single use visa to encourage visitors to travel to multiple destinations in the region.

He has also encouraged the larger international airlines to dedicate more flights to the Caribbean. Stressing it was possible to compete as well as cooperate with each other, he coined the word “co-petition.”

“There is much more work to be done and I believe that the Caribbean is poised for even greater achievements in tourism,” added Minister Bartlett.

“Tourism in the Caribbean and Jamaica are that much better off for having an innovative thought leader like Minister Bartlett and we all wholeheartedly congratulate him,” said Donovan White, Director of Tourism.

Read more: Bartlett Receives Caribbean Tourism Excellence Award

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The first was “Best in Class – News & Broadcasts” from the Religion Communicators Council and the second was a Silver award in the 2023 World Media Festival – Travel & Tourism, held in Hamburg, Germany. 

Produced & Hosted by Brad Pomerance, JLTV Host & Executive Vice President, this two-hour program premiered on JLTV in 2022. One of four episodes focusing on Jewish Heritage Malta, this TV special takes the audience on a remarkable journey, uncovering the history of Maltese Jewry, believed to be one of the oldest Jewish communities in the entire world. 

Carlo Micallef, CEO, Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) congratulated Brad Pomerance and the entire JLTV crew and noted, “Malta has the history, sites and attractions but the JLTV team did a magnificent job to film, produce and present Malta’s rich Jewish Heritage to a large audience.”

“These awards bring further recognition to Jewish Heritage Malta and great honor to MTA and all the partners in Malta that helped make this happen.” 

Michelle Buttigieg, Malta Tourism Authority Representative North America, added that “Malta is very proud to introduce this Jewish Heritage Malta experience in such depth through the lens of JLTV to its large North American audience. For the US & Canada, Malta is still an undiscovered gem, and even more so, its Jewish Heritage.” Buttigieg added a special thanks to MTA’s partners in Malta who helped bring this JLTV story to life, including the host hotel, Corinthia Palace, Heritage Malta, Rabbi Reuben Ohayon and the local Jewish Community, Exclusively Malta, with a thanks also to The Phoenicia Malta and ION Harbour. Malta also wishes to express a special appreciation to Turkish Airlines for its support.”

About Malta

The sunny islands of Malta, in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, are home to a most remarkable concentration of intact built heritage, including the highest density of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in any nation-state anywhere. Valletta, built by the proud Knights of St. John, is one of the UNESCO sites and the European Capital of Culture for 2018. Malta’s patrimony in stone ranges from the oldest free-standing stone architecture in the world, to one of the British Empire’s most formidable defensive systems, and includes a rich mix of domestic, religious and military architecture from the ancient, medieval and early modern periods. With superbly sunny weather, attractive beaches, a thriving nightlife and 8,000 years of intriguing history, there is a great deal to see and do. 

For more information on Malta, visit www.visitmalta.com

About Jewish Life Television 

Jewish Life Television is North America’s premier 24-7 Jewish-themed television network, available in over 45 million homes through Bell, Comcast, Cox, DirecTV, Spectrum, and other providers. For more information, please contact Brad Pomerance, (310) 266-4437, brad@jltv.tv. @JewishLifeTV, @BradPomerance, www.jltv.tv 

About Air Land & Sea

From all four corners of the Globe, the intrepid team of travelers on the award-winning television series Air Land & Sea uncovers the triumphs and tribulations of the Jewish people both past and present, while at the same time offering the audience a deep dive into what makes the respective destination a must-see for all world travelers.

Read more: JLTV Episode on Jewish History of Malta Wins Two Major Awards

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The US Travel Association today announced recipients of its 2023 Travel Champion award: U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) and U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo.

“Travel performs at its best when the private sector and the government work together to achieve common goals, and Senators Rosen and Sullivan and Secretary Raimondo each are credited with tremendous contributions towards this industry’s success,” said Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association.

“Each of our honorees has shown consistent dedication to helping travel grow and thrive.”

Travel is an essential contributor to the U.S. economy, supporting nearly 15 million American jobs and generating $2.6 trillion in total economic impact that benefits communities across the country.

The Travel Champion honor recognizes exceptional leadership in advancing and protecting policies that strengthen travel to and within the United States. The awards were presented this week in conjunction with the association’s Destination Capitol Hill event.

• Senator Jacky Rosen: As chair of the Senate Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Tourism, Trade and Export Promotion, Senator Rosen has increased Congressional action on policies that grow and facilitate travel. Senator Rosen played a pivotal role in the enactment of her bipartisan Omnibus Travel and Tourism Act, which established an Assistant Secretary of Travel and Tourism and created the One-Stop Security pilot program. She also advanced top industry priorities, including passage of the Restoring Brand USA Act, establishing a Chief Travel and Tourism Officer at the U.S. Department of Transportation and increasing federal investments in travel infrastructure.

• Senator Dan Sullivan: Senator Sullivan introduced the Visit America Act and was a lead cosponsor of the Omnibus Travel and Tourism Act in the Senate, which established an Assistant Secretary of Travel and Tourism within the U.S. Department of Commerce. This critical new position will lead federal policies to grow and facilitate international and domestic travel and serve as a key federal liaison to the industry. Senator Sullivan has also been an active leader in efforts to reduce U.S. visitor visa wait times and provide emergency funding for Brand USA.

• Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo: From her earliest days leading the Commerce Department, Secretary Raimondo engaged the travel industry, sought the input of travel leaders and remains a key voice within the Biden Administration on the economic importance of travel and tourism. The Secretary was instrumental in reopening U.S. borders to international travelers after the COVID-19 health crisis and also championed a new National Travel and Tourism Strategy, including a visitation and spending goal, in consultation with the Travel and Tourism Advisory Board.

The Travel Champion Award is an annual honor presented to four Members of Congress (one Democrat and one Republican, from both the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives, respectively) and an Executive Branch official for exhibiting outstanding leadership to enact policies that spur increased travel to and within the United States.

Awardees must demonstrate a track record of advancing a policy agenda that promotes travel’s ability to create jobs and stimulate economic growth, as well as serve as a public spokesperson to further educate policymakers and government officials alike to raise the profile of travel nationally and in local communities.

Past Honorees

2022 Sen. Roy Blunt (R-Missouri) U.S. Senate
2022 Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota) U.S. Senate
2022 Rep. Darin LaHood (R-Illinois) U.S. House of Representatives
2019 Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada) U.S. Senate
2019 Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-Oregon) U.S. House of Representatives
2019 Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio) U.S. Senate
2019 Rep. Tom Rice (R-South Carolina) U.S. House of Representatives
2019 Manisha Singh, Acting Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment U.S. Department of State
2018 Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) U.S. Senate
2018 Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawai’i) U.S. Senate
2018 Rep. Jared Huffman (D-California) U.S. House of Representatives
2018 Rep. David Kustoff (R-Tennessee) U.S. House of Representatives
2017 Sen. Cory Gardner (R-Colorado)
U.S. Senate
2017 Sen. Bill Nelson (D-Florida)
U.S. Senate
2017 Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Kentucky)
U.S. House of Representatives
2017 Rep. Judy Chu (D-California) U.S. House of Representatives
2016 Sen. Dean Heller (R-Nevada) U.S. Senate
2016 Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawai’i) U.S. Senate
2016 Rep. David Jolly (R-Florida) U.S. House of Representatives
2016 Rep. Dina Titus (D-Nevada) U.S. House of Representatives
2015 Sec. Penny Pritzker
U.S. Department of Commerce
2015 Sen. John Thune (R-South Dakota) U.S. Senate
2015 Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota) U.S. Senate
2015 Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-Florida) U.S. House of Representatives
2015 Rep. Mike Quigley (D-Illinois) U.S. House of Representatives
2014 Sen. Mark Begich (D-Alaska) U.S. Senate
2014 Sen. Roy Blunt (R-Missouri) U.S. Senate
2014 Rep. Sam Farr (D-California) U.S. House of Representatives
2014 Rep. Joe Heck (R-Nevada) U.S. House of Representatives

Read more: Rosen, Sullivan and Raimondo Named 2023 US Travel Champions

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With airline ticket prices having gone up 25% last year, outpacing inflation, a new report that focuses not just on price but also many other aspects of the air travel experience, such as safety, delays, baggage issues, animal incidents and more, was released today.

In 2023’s Best Airlines report, airline industry experts compared the 9 largest US airlines, plus two regional carriers, across 14 important metrics. They ranged from cancellation and delay rates to baggage mishaps and in-flight comfort. Analysts also considered costs in relation to in-flight amenities.

2023’s Best Airlines

Best Airline Overall – Delta Air Lines

Most Affordable Airline – Spirit Airlines

Most Reliable Airline – Delta Air Lines

Most Comfortable Airline – JetBlue Airways

Best Airline for Pets – Delta Air Lines, SkyWest Airlines and Alaska Airlines

Safest Airline – Envoy Air

KEY FINDINGS

Most Reliable Airline: Delta Air Lines has the lowest rate of cancelations, delays, mishandled luggage and denied boardings. The next most reliable company is United Airlines.

Most Comfortable Airline: JetBlue leads the pack in terms of in-flight experience, offering free amenities such as Wi-Fi, extra legroom, and complimentary snacks and beverages. Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines & American Airlines are tied for the second position for this category.

Most Affordable Airline: Spirit Airlines is the best airline for budget flyers.

Most Pet-Friendly Airline: Three airlines tied for being most pet-friendly, Delta Air Lines, Alaska Airlines and SkyWest, with no incidents.

Safest Airline: Envoy Air is the safest, with a low number of incidents and accidents per 100,000 flight operations, no fatalities and fewer than 15 people injured between 2017 and 2022. Envoy Air also has a relatively new fleet of aircrafts. The safety runner-up is Spirit Airlines.

Expert Commentary

What measures can airlines undertake in order to diminish their pilot shortage?

“One of the many barriers to entry into a professional pilot career is the cost of training. If airlines would help sponsor students through scholarships, work programs, or loan programs that would help attract students that would be ineligible to start training otherwise. One of the other ways airlines can help attract new pilots is to work with their pilot members through unions like ALPA to increase the quality of life for the pilots. Trying to recruit new pilots to be away from home for longer periods does not appeal to the current generation in training now. While pilot compensation is increasing, the overall quality of life of an airline pilot is not.”

Cody Christensen, E.D., ATP – Associate Professor, South Dakota State University

“In the short run, one effective way to reduce the impact of pilot shortage is increasing pilot salaries…Higher salaries can make the profession more attractive and incentivize pilots to stay with a particular airline. Airlines can also offer signing bonuses to attract new pilots as an incentive to join their company. This can help to attract pilots who may be considering other job offers. Airlines can improve benefits packages for pilots, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks. Airlines can create schedules that allow pilots to have a better work-life balance. This can include flexible scheduling, shorter trips, and more time off. In the long run, airlines can develop training programs to help individuals become pilots. This can include scholarships, apprenticeships, and other training opportunities. Airlines can partner with flight schools to provide a steady stream of pilots. This can include financial assistance, internships, and other benefits. Airlines can invest in new technology to help reduce the workload for pilots. This can include new autopilot systems, better navigation systems, and other tools that can make flying safer and easier.”

Read more: Best Airlines of 2023

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Saint Lucia is presented with the opportunity to be recognized for the industry’s gold standard in global travel at the 30th anniversary of the World Travel Awards, with nominations for six prestigious 2023 titles; Caribbean’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination, Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Destination, Caribbean’s Leading Destination, Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination, Caribbean’s Leading Luxury Island Destination, and Caribbean’s Leading Nature Destination.

Tourism service providers throughout Saint Lucia are likewise vying for the title of Saint Lucia’s best in the following categories,

Leading All-Inclusive Resort: Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa, Royalton Saint Lucia, Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Zoëtry Marigot Bay

Leading Beach Resort: Anse Chastanet Resort, Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa, Mystique St. Lucia by Royalton, Serenity at Coconut Bay, Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, The Landings Resort & Spa, Zoëtry Marigot Bay.

Leading Boutique Resort: Anse Chastanet Resort, Cap Maison, East Winds, Ladera Resort, Serenity at Coconut Bay, Ti Kaye Resort & Spa.

Leading Car Rental Company: Avis, Hertz, Sixt, Thrifty.

Leading Destination Management Company: Barefoot Holidays Saint Lucia, Cox and Company Ltd., LucianStyle, Serenity Vacations & Tours, Solar Tours & Travel, Spice Travel & Tours, SunTours Caribbean

Leading Family Resort: Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa, Royalton Saint Lucia, The Landings Resort & Spa.

Leading Green Resort: Fond Doux Eco Resort, Jade Mountain Resort, Ladera Resort, Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort.

Leading Honeymoon Resort: Anse Chastanet Resort, Cap Maison, Jade Mountain Resort, Ladera Resort, Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, The Landings Resort & Spa, Zoëtry Marigot Bay St. Lucia.

Leading Hotel: Bel Jou Hotel, Caille Blanc Villa & Hotel, East Winds, Rabot Hotel by Hotel Chocolat, Sol Sanctum, The SoCo House.

Leading Luxury Hotel Villa: Four Bedroom Beachfront Collection @ Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, Galaxy Sanctuary @ Jade Mountain Resort, Penthouse Three Bedroom Residence with Plunge Pool @ Zoëtry Marigot Bay St. Lucia, Saman House @ Cap Maison, Villa La Fleur @ Ladera Resort.

Leading Resort: BodyHoliday Saint Lucia, Cap Maison, Jade Mountain Resort, Ladera Resort, Mystique St. Lucia by Royalton, Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, The Landings Resort & Spa, Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort, Zoëtry Marigot Bay St. Lucia.

Leading Tour Operator: Carnival Sailing, Cox Tours, LucianStyle, Real St. Lucia Tours,
Serenity Vacations & Tours, Solar Tours & Travel, Spice Travel & Tours.

Leading Travel Agency: Going Places Travel, My Kind of Travel, Travel & Leisure Centre.

Leading Villa Resort: Cap Maison, Stonefield Villa Resort, Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort.

Leading Wedding Resort: Anse Chastanet Resort, Cap Maison, Jade Mountain Resort, Ladera Resort, Mystique St. Lucia by Royalton, Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, The Landings Resort & Spa, Zoëtry Marigot Bay St. Lucia.

Confidence in Saint Lucia’s sustainable tourism products is increasing among travel professionals and consumers, as more of the island’s service providers have been nominated for Accolades in 2023. This includes The Soco House, Zoëtry Marigot Bay, and Sea Spray Cruises, who are all new contenders for leading Caribbean titles.

“We are delighted that Saint Lucia’s outstanding services for travelers are being recognized and praised worldwide. Our island is proud to be a leader in the Caribbean, and we look forward to offering our guests unforgettable experiences in 2023 and beyond. We congratulate all service providers who upheld their titles in 2022, and we wish everyone competing in 2023 the best of luck!” remarked Hon. Dr. Ernest Hilaire, Minister for Tourism, Investment, Creative Industries, Culture, and Information.

Read more: Six Industry Gold Standards Honors Attributed to Saint Lucia

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On 30 march 2023 RAI Amsterdam took home the prestigious prize for Best International Venue at the Exhibitions News Awards ceremony held in the ExCeL London centre. Widely regarded as ‘The Oscars’ of the global trade show sector, the Exhibition News Awards are conferred annually on businesses which make outstanding contributions to the industry.

RAI Amsterdam had been shortlisted in the ‘Best International Venue’ category where it faced stiff competition from nominees such as the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Bruges Meeting & Convention Centre (BMCC), the Panama Convention Centre and the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Its submission for the award included the successful resumption of activities and events in the spring of 2022 following the lifting of Covid restrictions, as well as the RAI’s efforts to support Ukrainian refugees in partnership with Amsterdam city council.

Challenge and privilege

“Winning this major prize is a wonderful recognition that our efforts have been noticed and are paying off,” says RAI-COO Maurits van der Sluis. “Our goal is always to support exhibition and conference organisers in making their event a success and a meaningful experience for exhibitors and visitors alike. We are honoured to have won this award after almost two years of lockdown, during which time RAI Amsterdam became the largest Covid-19 vaccination site in the Netherlands. It has been a challenge and a privilege to completely reopen our convention centre for events in 2022.

“Resuming all our business activities at full capacity enabled us to contribute to and become the annual home base again for leading trade exhibitions like IBC, Money2020 and PLMA’s World Private Label. We also welcome major scientific congresses to Amsterdam such as the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the Dutch Trauma Days medical conference. Being named Best International Venue is a tribute to all who have worked so hard to get the RAI back in business.”

RAI Amsterdam welcomes the world

The flexible configuration at RAI Amsterdam makes it possible to host every kind of event. Trade shows like the international B2B Offshore Energy exhibition and European Women in Tech are interspersed with smaller events, theatre and other shows such as the PAN art fair, the Masters Expo lifestyle event, the Winter Paradise festival and the Kingsland dance event on Kings Day. A further remarkable sign of the return of dynamic economic activities in 2022 is the fact that RAI Hotel Services department booked some five million euros of accommodation in the nhow Amsterdam RAI hotel located next to the convention centre.

Exhibition News

Exhibition News is one of the leading trade magazines for the exhibition, conference and events industry. The category ‘Best International Venue’ was open to all large international exhibition venues with 10,000 sqm or more floor space that attract major international events. In addition to winning the Best International Venue award, it is noteworthy that we were also nominated for Best Company Culture.

Read more: RAI Amsterdam Wins Best International Venue Award

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The United States Virgin Islands Department of Tourism is very pleased to announce that its VisitUSVI.com’s Naturally in Rhythm Travel Promotion Site has won an “Outstanding Website” award as part of the Web Marketing Association’s 2023 Internet Advertising Competition Awards.

Joseph Boschulte, Commissioner of the USVI’s Department of Tourism, said “On behalf of the entire team at the U.S. Virgin Islands’ Department of Tourism, we are thankful to receive this important recognition for our new tourism campaign and website. It is a testament to everyone’s hard work and creativity over the past three years. At the end of the pandemic, we launched a bold, new marketing campaign, Naturally in Rhythm, focusing on the territory’s rich cultural, and this has been a highly successful and sustained effort by the entire team.”

Naturally in Rhythm is all about escaping the stresses of daily life and becoming one with the USVI’s rich culture, unique cuisine, natural diversity, storied history, national parks, pristine waters and beaches, and friendly people.

The campaign, which was ideated by the team at Miles Partnership, includes various marketing components anchored by the reimagined website. With authentic and enthralling images and videos, the new site invites visitors to explore the territory and indulge their senses. A highlighted feature of the website is the comprehensive trip-planning section that highlights restaurants, shops, services, and other businesses in the destination.

Read more: US Virgin Island Wins Outstanding Website Award

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Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, solidifies its standing as a top hotelier with five Centara properties receiving the 2023 Traveller Review Award from Booking.com.

Awarded annually to partner hotels and resorts, the Traveller Review Awards highlight properties for their exceptional hospitality as evidenced by Booking.com review scores left by guests after their stay.

With warm hospitality and world-class service at the centre of every guest experience at Centara, Thailand’s leading hotel operator is proud to recognise its top-performing hotels and resorts for winning this year’s award, including Centara Grand at CentralWorld, Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin, Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives, Centara Ao Nang Beach Resort & Spa Krabi, and Centara Reserve Samui which earned an impressive 9.5/10 rating.

“Winning this year’s Traveller Review Award is an honour and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our organisation and our hotel and resort teams. Centara prides itself on delivering warm, Thai hospitality, world-class service and unique experiences to business, leisure and family travellers alike. As the global travel and hospitality industry continues to rebound, we are especially grateful for our guests and their continued support, and look forward to continuing to provide them with unforgettable stays at Centara – The Place to Be,” said Thirayuth Chirathivat, CEO of Centara Hotels and Resorts.

To win a Traveller Review Award, properties need to have at least three reviews left by Booking.com travellers from 1 December 2019 and 30 November 2022 with an average review score between 8 and 10. Scores are based on the average of all guest reviews published on the Booking.com website and app and were calculated on 1 December 2022.

Read more: Top-performing Centara Hotels and Resorts Win Award

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The founder and owner of the 37-year-old Zara Tanzania Adventures, Ms. Zainab Ansell, was among the Tanzanian women legends at the red-carpet reception at Mlimani City in Dar-Es-Salaam on Saturday, March 25, 2023, to receive the ultimate annual honor of the Clouds Media Group’s Malikia wa Nguvu Award as the winner in employment creation in the tourism industry.

“It is with privilege and great honor to recognize Ms. Zainab Ansell as the winner of the Malikia wa Nguvu of 2023 for her painstaking efforts in creating decent and massive employment in the tourism industry,” organizers declared amid applause from the floor.

Clouds Media Group each year hosts a high-profile award gala dubbed Malkia Wa Nguvu to celebrate outstanding women, involving hundreds of females across the country who have extraordinarily excelled in various spheres of life.

Ms. Zainab, a former employee of Air Tanzania in the 1980s before quitting to start her tour and air tickets company, is one of the unsung heroines of our time. Being a lady in the tourist business, she fought extremely hard in a male-dominated society and has emerged triumphant.

If you visit Ms. Zainab’s office during the workdays, you will be shocked to see the same long, long queues commonly found at health facilities in African rural outfits.

People from all walks of life throng Ms. Zainab’s office, each seeking to consult her, as with a medical doctor. But unlike a medical doctor, Ms. Zainab often wears an infectious smile instead of the much-dreaded stethoscope as she serves one person after another with great humility.

Some people never notice that she is at the helm of Zara Tanzania Adventurer – one of the biggest and most prominent tour companies in the natural-resource most prosperous East African country.

The rare personality traits in most Tanzanian chief executive officers have enabled her to touch thousands of lives, particularly those from vulnerable groups. Her gifted hands have changed thousands of lives in Tanzania. She employs nearly 1,410 on a permanent and seasonal basis, sustaining thousands of families in a country where unemployment is among Tanzania’s significant social and economic challenges.

Official data put the rate of unemployment in Tanzania at 2.7%. However, according to the World Bank, about 900,000 youthful Tanzanians enter the job market each year, which can generate barely between 50,000 and 60,000 new opportunities only.

Besides addressing unemployment, Ms. Zainab is also at the forefront of helping the surrounding indigenous peoples, mostly Masaai. To support pastoralist community members, she has built a school where children under 7 years of age are educated free of charge. Ms. Zainab has not only constructed the school, but she also runs the facility, with 95 kids from the Maasai nomadic pastoralists pursuing their dreams in life. With the school, the Maasai kids would have somewhere to study.

She has also developed a unique window for helping marginalized Maasai women in her fresh bid to liberate them from the harmful shackles of their traditional norms. Ms. Zainab is single-handedly struggling to address historical injustice compounded by the oppression and exploitation of women. She has also been financially empowering the Maasai women to buy raw materials for making beads and selling them to foreign tourists. Hundreds of Maasai women benefit from tourists’ dollars by hawking beads and carvings along the roads heading for important tourist sites, thanks to Ms. Zainab’s quest to see local community members get direct returns for conserving tourist attractions surrounding them for ages.

Ms. Zainab has bankrolled first aid training sessions, beginners’ English courses, HIV and AIDS education, and financial management training, to mention but a few to nearly 900 porters. She has initiated Zara Charity, intending to stimulate a global movement on sustainable tourism by giving back to the community through the network of travel industry partners, organizations, travelers, and global citizens interested in reaching out to and supporting vulnerable groups in Tanzania.

Read more: Tanzania Tour Operator Nabs Award for Creating Jobs in Tourism

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Held at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi from March 12-15, 2023, the annual EMEA (Europe, Middle East & Africa) award recognizes properties with exceptional financial results and outstanding guest satisfaction scores, with The St. Regis Venice exceeding the 2022 forecast and goals in every area.

Also recently recognized by Marriott was the property’s Account Director Leonardo Gresele who was recognized as Marriott’s 2022 Top Performer reaching the President’s Circle for his outstanding sales results. Furthermore, the sales team of the hotel was also awarded as the best team for Q 3 for the Southern Europe area.

Patrizia Hofer, General Manager at The St. Regis Venice, said: “I am beyond proud of my team for delivering such exceptional results in 2022, which reflects our commitment to driving excellence across all pillars and functions.”

“The bar for 2023 is set high and I look forward to another record-breaking year.”

Boasting the largest waterfrontage in Venice, The St. Regis Venice combines historic legacy with modern luxury in a privileged location beside the Grand Canal surrounded by views across some of Venice’s most iconic landmarks. Formerly known as The Grand Hotel Britannia, the storied hotel challenges convention by embracing an avant-garde outlook in everything from its innovative approach to cultural programming to unconventional F&B offers.

For more information about The St. Regis Venice, please click here.

The St. Regis Venice

The St. Regis Venice combines historical heritage with modern luxury in a privileged location along the Grand Canal, immersed in a panorama composed of the most emblematic places of Venice. Thanks to a meticulous restoration of the five Venetian palaces that compose it, the hotel’s design celebrates the modern spirit of Venice, with 130 rooms and 39 suites, many of which feature private terraces with incomparable views of the city. Uncompromising glamour naturally extends to the hotel’s restaurants and bars, offering a range of exquisite dining options to Venetians and visitors alike, including the Private Italian Garden (a refined space for local foodies and guests), Gio’s Restaurant & Terrace (the hotel’s restaurant), and Arts Bar, where cocktails were created specifically to celebrate masterpieces of art. For events and meetings the hotel offers a choice of areas that can be easily transformed and customized to accommodate guests, with the support of an extensive inspirational cuisine menu. The most refined occasions can find space in the Library, with its intimate and urban atmosphere, in the finely furnished Lounge or in the adjacent Astor Boardroom. The Canaletto Room embodies the contemporary spirit of a Venetian palace and an elegant ballroom, presenting an ideal setting for important celebrations. For more information, visit stregisvenice.com

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts  

Blending classic sophistication with contemporary luxury, the St.Regis brand, part of Marriott International, Inc., remains committed to exceptional experiences at 50 hotels and resorts located in the world’s most exclusive locations. Created by John Jacob Astor IV, with the opening of the first St.Regis Hotel in New York over a century ago, the St.Regis Hotellerie brand is known worldwide for its signature style linked to exclusive luxury, refined elegance and highly personalized service, thanks to the impeccable St Regis Butler. For more information and new openings, visit stregis.com or follow Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. St. Regis is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, Marriott International’s global travel program. The program offers members an outstanding portfolio of global brands, unique Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unparalleled benefits including points valid for free stays and nights at group hotels, and for Elite status. To register for free or to learn more about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com

Read more: The St. Regis Venice Triumphs at Marriott’s EMEA Conference

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The award, selected by the jury of the 9th Creative Tourism Awards, was recently presented to the Jamaica Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, by Caroline Couret, Director of the Creative Tourism Network®, on behalf of the International Committee, on the margins of ITB Berlin, the world’s leading travel trade show, in Germany.

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, described the win as a major accolade for Kingston, which has steadily been gaining traction as a cultural and music destination. “Kingston is the unquestioned cultural heart of Jamaica and the Caribbean. We have been taking aggressive steps to position Kingston as a vibrant urban tourism destination. As a result, we are seeing a growing number of travelers choosing Kingston for its many culinary, music, art, sport and cultural offerings,” noted the Tourism Minister. “There is a good reason why Kingston was designated a UNESCO Creative City,” he added.

Minister Bartlett heaped praises on the Mayor of Kingston, Councilor Senator Delroy Williams and the wider Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) for the excellent job they are doing to transform Kingston into a Destination City.

“They have been doing a phenomenal job of positioning Kingston as an appealing destination city that attracts visitors through its history, culture and entertainment.”

“Visitors get to experience a Jamaica that is so much more than sun, sea and sand,” said the Minister.

Created by the Creative Tourism Network®, an organization for the development and promotion of creative tourism worldwide, the Creative Tourism Awards aim to reward companies, projects, and destinations worldwide that encourage all forms of artistic and creative tourism. The jury that selected Kingston for the award comprises global experts in the fields of tourism marketing and creative economy.

In recognizing Jamaica’s capital as a Best Creative Destination, the jury highlighted the following values of Kingston:

•             The support for artists, artisans, creatives and entrepreneurs in developing their practice and showcasing their work in a sustainable way.

•             The empowerment of persons from marginalized communities to leverage their creativity, be a part of the creative development of Downtown Kingston and build profitable businesses.

•             The effort to regenerate the urban environment of Downtown Kingston, using art to improve the space in which people live, work and play as well as where they think, invent and create.

•             The approach focusing not only on the destination but also on the people to make the travel experience more authentic and rewarding.

The Kingston nomination was submitted by Kingston Creative, a non-profit organization whose primary goal is to transform Downtown Kingston into a city tourism destination using art, culture and technology.

Read more: Kingston Cops Award for Best Creative Destination for 2023

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Thanks to the European Clubs and the National Committees, the traditional ITB Berlin meeting took place on March 8, 2023, with Skal Germany collaborating with Skal Italia, who organized the traditional gathering of Skal members present at the ITB Berlin.

Unlike previous years, Sardinia Region, (Italy) hosted Skal members from Germany, Spain, Croatia, Czech Republic, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, India, Nepal, USA, and Georgia at their stand.

The Sardinian Tourism Department delegated Dr. Roberta Loi who welcomed the participants highlighting the excellence of the destination such as the natural and cultural environment, the rich archaeological, historical and popular heritage, and the food and wine production.

Jo Jungwirth, president of Skal Germany, thanked Ms. Loi for the hospitality, and together they called the traditional Skal toast.

New Board of Skal Italia

The Assembly, held in Palermo on March 18, 2023, elected a new Board, along with a celebration of the 70th anniversary of the foundation of Skal Palermo.

The assembly also included the awarding of projects presented for the Skal Italia Tourism Sustainability Awards, and the twinning between Skal Venice and Skal Lugano. Also present were the President of Skal Europe, Franz Heffeter, and the President of Skal Switzerland, David Fontanella.

The Assembly elected:

National President:  Tito Livio Mongelli

Vice President:  Francesco Morini

Vice President:  Simone de Feo

Confirmed Secretary:  Santi Mogavero

Confirmed Treasurer:  Mario Pinna

Confirmed International Councilor:  Paolo Bartolozzi

Confirmed Reviewer:  Peter Castelforte

Confirmed Auditor:  Salvatore Visciano.

Winners of Skal Italia Sustainable Tourism Awards

TOUR OPERATORS:

Nelly Russo, Skal Naples –DMO Welcome Irpinia

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS AND MEDIA:

Anna Maria De Lucia and Anna Cioffi, Skal Naples – TV Series Na Storia

COMMUNITY AND GOVERNMENT PROJECTS:

Read more: Skal Italia Elects New Board

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Last week, Saudi inspired collaboration and partner commitment at the world’s leading travel trade show, ITB Berlin. Celebrating the incredible success of its inaugural participation, Saudi unlocked new opportunities for growth with global and European partners.

The Saudi stand was recognized for its world-class presence, taking home the awards for both ‘best exhibitor’ for Best of the Best with criteria focused on attractiveness, authenticity and benefits for trade visitors and ‘best exhibitor’ for the Near/Middle East for its five senses experience, metaverse and sustainable catering.

As part of Saudi’s participation, His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb met with major travel trade entities such as TUI, and FTI and welcomed Ministers, Presidents, CEOs and global tourism leaders from the UNWTO and WTTC to the Saudi stand. A landmark agreement was signed by the Saudi Ministry of Tourism and the UNWTO, prioritizing people through the power of e-learning.

Saudi achieved incredible commercial engagement with partners focused on the European and German markets, signing 11 strategic partnership agreements with some of the world’s largest travel companies and top vertically integrated German operators including Expedia, FTI, DER Touristik, Hotel Beds and others.

Saudi’s Nusuk platform brought new life to spiritual travel at ITB Berlin with Umrah-focused tour operator meetings hosting more than 45 attendees. The stand also brought the history, culture and stories of Makkah and Madinah to visitors through a beautiful, immersive VR experience.

Saudi Tourism CEO Fahd Hamidaddin hosted the “Saudi Partner Talks” on-stand with Martina Groenegres, Managing Director, Lufthansa City Center International and Markus Orth, Lufthansa City Centre Regional, moderated by German travel TV presenter Kai Boecking, which focused on how partners use international networks to drive business.

Throughout the event, Saudi welcomed visitors with authentic Arabian hospitality and brought Saudi’s rich culture and heritage to life through immersive experiences including a ‘Savour Saudi’ date and coffee tasting session hosted by an expert from the National Centre for Palms and Dates.

Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and Member of the Board of Saudi Tourism Authority said:

“Saudi tourism witnessed unprecedented success at this year’s ITB Berlin. Our vision and ambition is unrivalled and as we position the country as the tourism destination powerhouse of the region, we continue to unlock opportunities for our partners locally and internationally.

“We gained deeper insight into the German and European markets, their desire for sun and sea products and a rich culture and heritage offering and we are working hard to cater to this demand through milestone openings on the Red Sea this year and the success of projects including Bujairi Terrace which has already welcomed more than 700,000 visitors. Our Nusuk platform also received strong demand from partners as the German market is recognizing the untapped potential of the unique Umrah spiritual travel segment.

“Our partners are growing with us and we are committed to investing in them and in the sector, towards a shared future as we tap into the immense potential in the market.”

Markus Orth, Managing Director, Lufthansa City Center Regional, said: “We see great potential for the future in our cooperation with Saudi Arabia. It is a new, fascinating destination with seemingly endless facets, which is now taking the opportunity to focus on a sustainable future in tourism. With the mass of cultural sites, the new high-quality resorts at the Red Sea and many upcoming events, the destination offers everything it needs for an exciting round trip. We are looking forward to a strong strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia.”

Norbert Fiebig, President, DRV said: “The signing of the MOU between Saudi Tourism Authority and German Travel Association DRV will further strengthen the bond between our countries. We believe that by collaborating, we can boost travel between Saudi Arabia and Germany, bringing our people together. This will surely benefit mutual understanding, respect and friendship”.

Since opening to tourism in 2019, Saudi has been recognized as the world’s fastest-growing tourism destination in the G20. With an extraordinary +121% increase from pre-pandemic international tourism levels, Saudi achieved 93.5 million visits in 2022 and is outpacing global tourism sector recovery as recognized by the UNWTO. As the world’s biggest investor in tourism, Saudi has committed $550bn to new destinations by 2030 and is reimagining tourism to welcome 100 million visits by 2030.

The country is an under-discovered destination with a rich cultural heritage brought to life through Diriyah, the 300-year-old city and birthplace of Saudi, and an emerging destination for sun seekers and yachting holidays with the opening of Red Sea assets this year. In Jeddah, visitors can explore Jeddah’s historical district, Al Balad and the traditional Hijazi style houses or go diving in one of the top diving and snorkeling destinations in the Red Sea.

Read more: Saudi Celebrates Unprecedented Success at ITB Berlin 2023

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Women were out and strong at ITB Berlin this year. The largest travel industry trade show regained strength after three years of COVID-19 interruption and went co-inside with the international day of women.

The discussion of gender equality flamed up recently, specifically with heated talks in Europe and North America – but tourism may be different. At ITB, this hot topic was discussed at panels around the travel and tourism world.

In travel and tourism, most leaders are women, and this is not so much realized in many countries. Women leaders also count very much for the Islamic world. Perception still counts Islamic countries as a tough place for women to succeed in their professional careers. This perception is changing fast with a new reality.

In Saudi Arabia, Princess Haifa Al Saud is the Saudi the Vice Minister of Tourism. Sarah Al-Husseini has been the general director of international cooperation at the Saudi Ministry of Tourism since 2019.

The top advisor to the minister of tourism in Saudi Arabia has been seen as the most powerful and outspoken woman in the world of tourism since she was CEO of WTTC. This is Gloria Guevara, who was a tourism minister herself for her native Mexico.

She told eTurboNews, her family loves living in Saudi Arabia, and this little girl who added chocolate to a sustainable tourism world in Riyadh shows a promising future for our industryc without borders.

The influence of women in tourism is not different in neighboring Bahrain. HE Ms. Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi is the Minister of Tourism in this oil-rich nation.

She was recognized in Berlin as the best woman tourism minister of the year by the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association.

HE Fatima Alsairaf was chosen by a specialized judging panel that closely examined various women tourism ministers around the globe, accounting for 29 women tourism Ministers.

HE Fatima Alsairaf achievements and accomplishments in upgrading the tourism and travel sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain played a vital role in honoring her with the “Best Women Tourism Minister of the Year” Award. 

Under her leadership, tourism in the Kingdom is 90% back from pre-covid 2019 levels. Under her leadership, the estimated level of recovery for Bahrhain predicted by the World Tourism Organization at 65% was far exceeded.

As a tourism minister of an important but smaller Gulf destination, she showed the world how independent countries and regions can benefit from cooperation with other countries.

HE Fatima Alsairaf said: ” Efforts of our teams at the Ministry of Tourism and Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), in addition to our partners in the private tourism establishments as well as other stakeholders, show excellent results.

“This is a testament to our keen desire to contribute as part of Team Bahrain to overcome the obstacles that the tourism sector went through during the pandemic and bring back this important field to its normal position to enable it to contribute to boosting the national economy, diversifying income sources, creating employment opportunities and attracting investments,” 

She further pointed out the many untold success stories in the Kingdom of Bahrain that craft unique visitor experiences “. 

Bahrain is active in regional tourism activities and the Meeting and Incentive industry market. Many young Saudi Arabians see Bahrain as a popular weekend destination. Bahrainis see Saudi Arabia as a destination of many new trendy and cultural opportunities – and travel between the two countries is booming, especially on weekends.

As a smaller independent travel destination sandwiched between neighboring Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, the kingdom has developed its niche within tourism destinations in the Gulf region. Cooperation is a win-win; HE, Ms. Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi understands this.

Edmund Bartlett, the minister of Tourism for Jamaica, was also recognized with a PATWA award.

HE Ahmed Aqeel AlKhateeb from Saudi Arabia and HE Ms. Fatima bing Jaafar Al Sairafi from Bahrhain have a shared vision and could make a winning team. They all see tourism from a global perspective.

Bahrain is located in the Arabian Gulf.

Boasting its own version of a Formula 1 Grand Prix, a growing art and foodie scene heavily cross-pollinated by Manama’s large expat population and a wealth of activities enjoyed on the azure waters surrounding this collection of islands.

Bahrain will appeal to travelers who seek an unpretentious yet confident country bearing all the hallmarks of a modern, wealthy Gulf nation. Tourists often overlook this multilayered and multicultural destination in the making.

Read more: The Best Woman Tourism Minister is from Bahrain

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Dr. Albert Salman, President of Green Destinations, presented a 2023 Green Destinations Story Award to Barbados which won first place in the category Environment and Climate in recognition of leadership towards tackling climate crises and reducing waste pollution.at the ongoing ITB Berlin.

The nomination came from Barbados’ ambition to be the first island in the Caribbean to achieve a 100% renewable energy goal by 2030 and a 70% carbon neutrality goal by 2050. The strides taken thus far have landed Barbados its first milestone in this prestigious category, namely having the largest fleet of electric buses in the Caribbean.

Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, proudly accepted the award in Germany on March 7, 2023, expressing gratitude to Green Destinations.

“The fact that as a small island developing state we have been able to beat out a field comprising of 100 countries, says a lot about who we are and where we want to be.”

“Our Prime Minister, the Honorable Mia Mottley, has been a trailblazer on the international scene, advocating in particular for small island developing states to ensure that we not only build resilience but also stress the awareness and impact that climate change has on Barbados,” Minister Gooding-Edghill stated.

The Green Destinations Story Awards celebrates the most inspirational initiatives for sustainable tourism development, promoting 100 destinations as inspiring examples for other destinations, tour operators, and visitors.

The Tourism Minister referenced the Barbados National Energy Policy 2019-2030, which outlines 6 goals to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2030.

“Our policies at the government level have caused us to be where we are today, so I really want to say that this award is for Barbadians; this is about Barbados and its leadership in the field of resilience and climate change,” Mr. Gooding-Edghill added.

Among the most significant accomplishments, Barbados currently has a fleet of 49 electric buses. As Barbados transitions to greater use of solar energy, almost 43% of the island’s grid is run on solar power, a remarkable feat in peak and non-peak periods. Over 25,000 of streetlights island wide now use LED bulbs to further reduce Barbados’ carbon footprint.

EARLY SUCCESS

Earlier on, successes for Barbados in conservation and sustainability have included being one of the 10 destinations featured in the new documentary series produced by Sustainable Travel International and Zinc Media. The focus of this documentary is on showcasing responsible small travel businesses and local experiences.

The Chief Executive Officer of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), Jens Thraenhart, said:

“In 2022, Barbados was listed as one of the Top 100 Green Destinations, being the only destination in the Caribbean to have achieved this ranking.”

Portugal and The Philippines placed second and third in the Environment and Climate category, and this award is a promising step in Barbados’ fight to become the first carbon-neutral small island.

Read more: Barbados Takes Home the Green at ITB Berlin

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The recent launch of the fourth edition of the Malta MICHELIN Guide includes a newly starred restaurant bringing the total of Michelin starred restaurants in the Maltese archipelago to six. The new Michelin Guide 2023 showcases the richness of the Maltese culinary scene, influenced by the many civilizations that once made these islands their home.

The 2023 edition elevated the Fernandõ Gastrotheque in Sliema, to a One Michelin Star status. The five restaurants that have retained their MICHELIN Star status are Under Grain, Valetta; Noni, Valletta; ION – The Harbour, Valletta; De Mondion, Mdina; and Bahia, Balzan.

The new edition introduces five new restaurants to the Recommended selection: Giuseppi’s, Naxxar; Loa, St. Paul’s Bay; Grotto Tavern, Rabat; Legligin, Valletta; and Rosamì, St. Julian’s. This brings the 2023 Malta selection up to 25 Michelin recommended restaurants.

The Bib Gourmand status has been maintained by four restaurants: Terrone, Birgu; Commando, Mellieha; Grain Street, Valletta; and Rubino, Valletta. These restaurants offer good quality and good value cooking.

The MICHELIN Guide Malta 2023 selection includes 35 restaurants in total:

• 6 one MICHELIN Star
• 4 Bib Gourmands
• 25 recommendations

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guides, expressed his pride in welcoming a new restaurant to the MICHELIN Stars family, and commended the development of the Maltese culinary scene, which continues to surprise and delight gourmets. He added, “Whether for its UNESCO designated heritage, its status as a Mediterranean crossroads, its ancient history or its colorful and joyful cuisine, Malta has everything needed to seduce travelers.”

Minister for Tourism Clayton Bartolo stated, “The recent growth of tourism has presented huge opportunities and increased business for the local catering industry. Our Tourism Strategy through 2030 places a strong emphasis on sustainability, quality, authenticity and a stronger link to what makes the Maltese Islands such a diverse and unique destination. The gastronomic experience is an integral part of these objectives.”

CEO of the Malta Tourism Authority, Mr. Carlo Micallef, expressed his pride in the dedication and hard work of the Maltese catering sector as it has been instrumental in contributing to a steady recovery in the tourism industry. He highlighted the importance of the Michelin Guide in attracting quality tourism to the islands and thanked all those involved in the sector, including investors and MTA staff, for their efforts towards tourism success.

The full 2023 selection for Malta is available on the MICHELIN Guide website and on the App, available for free on iOS and Android.

About Malta

The sunny islands of Malta, in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, are home to a most remarkable concentration of intact built heritage, including the highest density of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in any nation-state anywhere. Valletta, built by the proud Knights of St. John, is one of the UNESCO sites and the European Capital of Culture for 2018. Malta’s patrimony in stone ranges from the oldest free-standing stone architecture in the world, to one of the British Empire’s most formidable defensive systems, and includes a rich mix of domestic, religious and military architecture from the ancient, medieval and early modern periods. With superbly sunny weather, attractive beaches, a thriving nightlife and 7,000 years of intriguing history, there is a great deal to see and do.

For more information on Malta, go to visitmalta.com.  

About Gozo

Gozo’s colors and flavors are brought out by the radiant skies above it and the blue sea which surrounds its spectacular coast, which is simply waiting to be discovered. Steeped in myth, Gozo is thought to be the legendary Calypso’s Isle of Homer’s Odyssey – a peaceful, mystical backwater. Baroque churches and old stone farmhouses dot the countryside. Gozo’s rugged landscape and spectacular coastline await exploration with some of the Mediterranean’s best dive sites. 

For more information on Gozo, go to visitgozo.com.

Read more: 2023 Malta MICHELIN Guide adds Michelin Starred Restaurant

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The “Lifetime Achievement Award for Promoting sustainable travel & tourism.” was awarded at the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) Tourism & Aviation Leaders’ Summit at ITB Berlin in Germany.

The two leaders receiving the award are not in the Pacific region but have set a global footprint for the sector.

The PATWA International Travel Awards recognize individuals and organizations that have excelled and are involved in the promotion of tourism from different sectors of the travel trade such as aviation, hotels, travel agencies, tour operators, destinations, government bodies, tourism ministries and other service providers related directly or indirectly to the industry.

Thanking PATWA for the recognition, Jamaica Tourism Minister Bartlett said, “I am honored and humbled to receive this Lifetime Achievement Award.

I am passionate about tourism and I am equally passionate about the sustainable development of tourism.  It is the only way the industry can be leveraged as a catalyst for economic growth and the transformation of communities and nations.” He added, “For long-term success, tourism must be economically viable, socially inclusive, and environmentally friendly. This award proves that my advocacy is getting traction and has not fallen on deaf ears.”

As one of the world’s leading tourism ministers, Mr. Bartlett has become a powerful voice and tireless advocate for global tourism resilience and sustainability.

Most recently, he was inducted into the Global Tourism Hall of Fame and received the Travel Pulse award for Global Tourism Innovation.

Additionally, he is the Founder and Co-Chair of the Global Tourism Resilience & Crisis Management Centre (GTRCMC) headquartered at the University of the West Indies, Mona, which is dedicated to conducting policy-relevant research and analysis on destination preparedness, management and recovery due to disruptions and crises that impact tourism.

Under his leadership, tourism has been positioned as a catalyst for sustainable and inclusive growth, through job creation, Public Private Partnerships (PPPS), wealth creation and community transformation. Minister Bartlett also co-edited the book: Tourism Resilience and Recovery for Global Sustainability and Development: Navigating COVID-19 and the Future,’ with GTRCMC Executive Director, Professor Lloyd Waller.

Jamaica Minister Bartlett is currently attending ITB Berlin, the world´s biggest travel show and convention, which attracts thousands of tourism professionals and key players from the global travel industry. The event runs from March 7-9, 2023 under the theme: “Open for Change.”

In keeping with continued efforts for tourism recovery, while in Germany, Minister Bartlett and a high-level Ministry of Tourism delegation will hold bilateral meetings with other government representatives as well as meet with key tourism partners and investors.

The Minister will be the keynote speaker and a panellist during the “New Narratives for work in travel” ITB session. He will also give the keynote address at a Global Travel & Tourism Resilience Council event, titled: “Celebrate Global Tourism Resilience Day.”

Alain St.Ange, the former Seychelles Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine, also received a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Both former Minister St.Ange of the Seychelles and Minister Edmund Bartlett of Jamaica were singled out for their successful lifelong journey in tourism and for their continued innovation in destination marketing and their ability to manouver on the world stage in the positioning of their respective countries as succesful tourism destinations. Former Minister St.Ange and Minister Bartlett were both congratulated for being recognised as World Tourism Leaders.

Read more: Bartlett and St.Ange are lifetime achievers according to PATWA

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The Bicester Collection has announced the winners of the Unlock Her Future Prize 2023 during a prize-giving ceremony in celebration of International Women’s Day, hosted by author and women’s activist Lina AbiRafeh.

Over the past two days, eight finalists representing Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Lebanon, Palestine, Saudi Arabia and the UAE attended a pitch day in London to compete to become the winners of the first edition of the start-up business competition, which aims to identify and support women social impact entrepreneurs who are leveraging system-changing innovation as a force for good.

Judges Desirée Bollier, Chair and Global Chief Merchant of Value Retail, creator and operator of The Bicester Collection; Dr Iman Bibars, Vice President and Regional Director, Ashoka Arab World and founder of Women’s Initiative for Social Entrepreneurship (WISE); the Hon. Dr Badira Ibrahim Al Shihhi, Vice Chair of the State Council of Sultanate of Oman; Elham Fardad, founder and CEO, Migrant Leaders; and sustainability advisor Caterina Occhio, founder of SeeMe and Ethicarei, reached a unanimous decision, recognizing the exceptional talent of Noor Jaber and Sara Ali llalla.

Each will receive a business grant of up to $100,000, bespoke mentorship from international experts and an education program from presenting partner New York University Abu Dhabi.

Noor Jaber, Nawat (Lebanon) – enhancing women’s sexual and reproductive health (SRHR) through a safe and accessible digital space providing SRSH knowledge in Arabic via educational content and consultations with qualified experts, offering confidentiality, privacy and convenience.

“I’m so thrilled to have been selected as a winner of the Unlock Her Future Prize, this initiative brings validation to my passion and to my mission to bring the importance of women’s reproductive health out into the open and to empower women to care for their well-being and take informed decisions about their bodies.” Noor Jaber, founder of Nawat Sara Llalla, EcoCentric (Iraq/UAE) – an online marketplace and circular economy system designed to mitigate microplastic food contamination and eliminate plastic waste.

“Winning this prestigious prize validates the need of EcoCentric’s services in our society. We’re introducing the only truly sustainable food packaging system, which should be normalized as part of our everyday and now is the perfect time to launch this in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the host of COP 28.” Sara llalla, founder of EcoCentric.

Inspired by the power of product invention, the judges decided to allocate the third prize between two finalists who are at different stages of the development of their invention.

Fella Bouti, Ecodalle (Algeria)– providing ecological construction and homogeneous, economical and integrated irrigation solutions to improve large cities’ air quality and urban temperature.

“Unlock Her Future stands for the power of women, this is an incredible opportunity, it will be life changing for me!” Fella Bouti, founder of Ecodalle Nuhayr Zein, Leukeather (UAE) – a sustainable and ethical vegetal material alternative to exotic leathers made from dried plant pods, and a by-product of existing agriculture which minimizes its carbon footprint and provides an additional source of income for farming communities.

“The Unlock Her Future Prize will allow Leukeather to develop, so that we may all take a step forward towards a eco-friendlier and more responsible world by collaborating with nature and completely eliminating the unethical and wasteful killing of exotic species”.

Nuhayr Zein, founder, Leukeather Chantal Khoueiry, Chief Culture Officer, The Bicester Collection commented: “Empowering women social entrepreneurs is not just about recognizing their achievements – it’s about creating a ripple effect of positive change that impacts entire communities. Today, we celebrate the vision, tenacity and innovation of these four Arab women, the winners of the Unlock Her Future Prize 2023 MENA edition. These women are leading the way towards a brighter future for us all.”

Open to women of any age with an inspiring not-for-profit business idea, or a business where their for-profit goals generate a positive return to society; the Unlock Her Future Prize identifies
system-changing ventures that will drive sustainable positive social, cultural and environmental impact for generations to come, as defined by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

A global program, the inaugural edition celebrated the women of the Middle East and North Africa and in 2024, the prize will travel around the world to celebrate women from another geographical region.

Read more: Unlock Her Future Prize 2023 – Winners Announced

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Since 1995, the Institute for Tourism and Development (Studienkreis für Tourismus und Entwicklung e.V.) has been awarding the international “TO DO Award” to honor initiatives that promote sustainable and socially responsible tourism. What distinguishes the winners is the active involvement of the local population, the creation of income opportunities for locals in tourism, and the promotion of intercultural encounters between hosts and guests. Since 2017, the TO DO Award Human Rights in Tourism has also been presented annually. It recognizes initiatives that are particularly committed to protecting human rights principles along the entire tourism value chain. The award ceremony will take place during ITB Berlin 2023.

The winners of the TO DO Award 2023 are:

“Nutti Sámi Siida” from Sweden: The project has created a tourism platform for the culture of the Sámi, the indigenous people who lived semi-nomadically from reindeer herding for centuries. Through interaction with travelers, the Sámi are exploring new ways to preserve their traditional livelihoods in harmony with the modern world and advancing climate change.

“Nuratau Community Based Tourism Project” from Uzbekistan: The project was launched in 2008 to provide additional income to the population in the remote mountain villages of the Nuratau Mountains. Today, the project consists of 14 family guesthouses in 6 villages, which can accommodate about 200 guests to immerse themselves in the everyday culture of the locals.

The TO DO Award Human Rights in Tourism 2023 goes to:

SASANE Sisterhood Trekking & Travel from Nepal: the project trains local women to become tour guides for the rural mountain villages of Nepal. These women come from underprivileged population groups and are survivors of domestic violence, child marriage and human trafficking. The project provides them with a viable source of income.

Read more: TO DO Award Honors Sustainable Tourism at ITB Berlin

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Budapest Airport has secured the title of Airports Council International (ACI) Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Best Airport in Europe. For the first time, the Hungarian gateway has beaten its competition throughout Europe to take the title in the 15 to 25 million annual passenger category.

The awards, which are uniquely voted for by the passenger, are the conclusion of the world’s leading passenger satisfaction survey. In partnership with travel technology company Amadeus, ACI examines 30 performance indicators over key elements which measure the airport’s customer experience from security and check-in to helpfulness and cleanliness – a true passenger opinion and feedback. Based on live research direct from the traveller at the airport, the study is renowned for providing global benchmarks for the industry.

Chris Dinsdale, CEO, Budapest Airport says: “Winning this prestigious award is a truly proud moment for all at Budapest Airport. This success is the result of the joint work of the entire airport community, and I thank everyone for their dedication and commitment which has made us the best in Europe!” Dinsdale adds: “The customer is at the centre of everything we do. We actively listen to our passengers and ensure we evolve with our approach to their needs and expectations. Travel experience starts at the airport and we are exceptionally honoured to be a role model in the global aviation industry.”

Luis Felipe de Oliveira, Director General of ACI World said: “The passenger is the centre of everything, and this is reflected in every aspect of the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) program. Travellers have spoken and recognised the successful efforts of these airport communities in providing outstanding customer experience. Congratulations to the best airports for customer experience worldwide.”

ACI is the trade association of the world’s airports, representing the best interests of airports and making a significant contribution to ensure the global air transport system is safe, secure, efficient, and environmentally sustainable. The 2022 ACI ASQ Awards will be presented during a ceremony at the Customer Experience Global Summit on 6 September in Incheon.

Read more: Budapest Airport named Best Airport in Europe

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Eight women social impact entrepreneurs from the Middle East and North Africa will compete to become one of three winners.

The Bicester Collection has announced the finalists of the Unlock Her Future Prize 2023. The finalists represent Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Lebanon, Palestine, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates and were selected among 850 applicants from nineteen countries across the Middle East and North Africa.

Open to women of any age with an inspiring not-for-profit business idea or a business where their for-profit goals generate a positive return to society; the Prize identifies system-changing ventures that will drive sustainable positive social, cultural and environmental impact within the MENA region for generations to come, as defined by the United Nations Sustainable

Development Goals. The finalists of the Unlock Her Future Prize 2023 are:

Fella Bouti, Ecodalle – providing ecological construction and homogeneous, economical and integrated irrigation solutions to improve large cities’ air quality and urban temperature.

Yasmin Jamal Mohamed, Dammg – a digital platform offering educational opportunities for children with learning difficulties and disabilities such as autism and Down’s syndrome, connecting parents with specialized teachers, educational therapists and training programs.

Sara Ali Llalla, Ecocentric – an online marketplace and circular economy system designed to mitigate microplastic food contamination and eliminate plastic waste.

Noor Jaber, Nawat – enhancing women’s sexual and reproductive health (SRHR) through a safe and accessible digital space; providing SRSH knowledge in Arabic via educational content and consultations with qualified experts, offering confidentiality, privacy and convenience.

Reem Hamed, Gifted – an e-commerce platform offering curated gift boxes featuring products supplied by small businesses, increasing visibility and motivating sales to generate a circular economy and supportive community of women entrepreneurs supporting emerging women entrepreneurs.

Safaa Ayyad, Foras – a digital platform accelerating youth participation in the labor market by connecting young, ambitious individuals looking to jumpstart their careers through access to training, internships, voluntary work, jobs, workshops, grants, funds and scholarship opportunities.

Muna Alamer, Lesser – aims to motivate a recycling culture by introducing an infrastructure based on community participation and rewards, thereby reducing waste going to landfills aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Nuhayr Zein, Leukeather – a vegetal, sustainable and ethical material alternative to exotic leathers, made from dried plant pods and a by-product of existing agriculture which minimizes its carbon footprint and provides an additional source of income for farming communities.

The finalists will be invited to London to compete to become one of three winners. Each will receive a business grant of up to $100,000, bespoke mentorship from international experts, and an education program from presenting partner New York University Abu Dhabi.

Prominent women judges and notable figures from the MENA region who’ll decide upon the three winners include Desirée Bollier, Chair and Global Chief Merchant of Value Retail, the creator and operator of The Bicester Collection, Dr Iman Bibars, Vice President of Ashoka, Regional Director of Ashoka Arab World and Founder of Women’s Initiative for Social Entrepreneurship (WISE) and the Hon. Dr. Badira Ibrahim Al Shihhi, Vice Chair of the State Council of Sultanate of Oman, amongst others. The finalists and judges will be hosted in London with the generous support of Almosafer (part of Seera Group), Saudi Arabia’s leading travel company.

The winners will be announced on International Women’s Day, March 8, during a prize-giving ceremony in London hosted by author and women’s activist Lina AbiRafeh.

Read more: Unlock Her Future™ Prize 2023 Finalists Announced

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The St. Regis San Francisco, which has set the standard for bespoke anticipatory service and elegance of design since its opening, is pleased to announce that it has once again been named one of the world’s outstanding Five-Star properties by Forbes Travel Guide (FTG). The Forbes Travel Guide is the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas and cruises, and its annual Star Awards are highly anticipated within the hospitality industry and by discerning travelers worldwide.

“We are honored to be recognized as a Five-Star property by the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide,” said Roger Huldi, general manager of the hotel. “The St. Regis San Francisco prides itself on providing a guest experience that is second to none, as well as a prime location for enjoying all that this wonderful city has to offer.”

“This award is a tribute to the extraordinary dedication of the employees, our St. Regis Hosts, to ensure an exquisite stay for every guest. My heartfelt thanks and congratulations to the whole team.”

The St. Regis San Francisco recently completed a refresh of its guestrooms and meeting spaces in collaboration with Toronto-based Chapi Chapo Design, a multidisciplinary design house whose principals played key roles in the original design of the property. The redesign refitted the 260 rooms and suites with customized furniture, exclusive to the hotel, and enhanced the 15,000 square feet of meeting and event spaces, creating innovative areas designed to facilitate conversation and collaboration. In 2022, the property also unveiled a reimagined St. Regis Bar and a new restaurant, Astra, by London-based design firm Blacksheep.

“Travel is in an incredible position for continued growth, as people prioritize authentic, in-person experiences,” said Amanda Frasier, president of ratings for Forbes Travel Guide. “The hotels, ocean cruises, restaurants and spas on our 2023 Star Rating list demonstrate an impressive commitment to creating memorable environments that nurture connection, joy and sense of place as we experience the world to its fullest.”

To view the full list of Star Award winners, visit ForbesTravelGuide.com.

For a detailed explanation of how Forbes Travel Guide compiles its Star Ratings, click here.

About The St. Regis San Francisco

The St. Regis San Francisco opened in November 2005, introducing a new dimension of luxury, uncompromising service, and timeless elegance to the city of San Francisco. The 40-story landmark building, designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, includes 102 private residences rising 19 levels above the 260-room St. Regis Hotel.  From legendary butler service, “anticipatory” guest care and impeccable staff training to luxurious amenities and interior design by Chapi Chapo of Toronto, The St. Regis San Francisco delivers an unmatched guest experience. The St. Regis San Francisco is located at 125 Third Street. Telephone: 415.284.4000.

About Forbes Travel Guide

Forbes Travel Guide is the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants and spas. Anonymous professional inspectors evaluate based on hundreds of exacting standards, with an emphasis on exceptional service, to help discerning travelers select the world’s best experiences. The only way to get a Five-Star, Four-Star or Recommended rating is by earning it through our independent inspection process. For more information about Forbes Travel Guide, please visit ForbesTravelGuide.com.

Connect with Forbes Travel Guide via Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Read more: The St. Regis San Francisco awarded top five-star rating by Forbes

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Forbes Travel Guide, the only independent, rigorous global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants and spas, unveiled its 65th prestigious luxury Star Awards Winners for 2023.

The 2023 Forbes Travel Guide lists ten luxury properties in Malta, an archipelago in the Mediterranean, 4 more than in 2022. 

The 4 newly included properties featured in the Forbes 2023 list are AX The Saint John Boutique, Hyatt Regency Malta, The Phoenicia Malta and The Westin Dragonara Resort. The 2023 list features one 5-Star property, the Iniala Harbour House and four 4-Star properties offering high levels of service and quality of facilities including Corinthia Palace Malta, Hyatt Regency Malta, The Phoenicia Malta, The Westin Dragonara Resort.

Five Maltese properties listed in the Recommended category, rated for being excellent properties with good facilities and consistently good service.

They include AX The Saint John Boutique, Malta Marriott Hotel & Spa, Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Golden Sands, Rosselli – AX Privilege, and Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz, in Gozo.

“The fact that the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide has now featured three more hotels in 2023, now totaling 10 luxury properties, is a clear indication that Malta has gained worldwide recognition as a luxury destination,” said Michelle Buttigieg, Representative North America, Malta Tourism Authority. She added, “with new luxury hotels opening this year, 2023, we hope that the number of luxury properties listed by Forbes in 2024 will be even greater.” 

About Forbes Travel Guide

Forbes Travel Guide is the global authority on luxury hospitality and to compile the 65th annual Star Awards, their professional inspectors, who travel incognito, assess the finest hotels, restaurants, spas and ocean cruise ships based on hundreds of exacting standards that determine their coveted annual Star Ratings. Forbes Travel Guide’s incognito inspectors inspect every hotel, restaurant, spa and cruise ship in person, while posing as ordinary guests. In this way they ensure that every Star Rating is earned through an objective, independent process and no one is capable of buying a rating under any circumstance. 

The 2023 Star Awards Winners list includes 360 Five-Star, 585 Four-Star and 433 Recommended Hotels. It also features 79 Five-Star, 113 Four-Star and 67-Recommended restaurants, 119 Five-Star, 195 Four-Star spas, and five cruise ships, worldwide.

About Malta

The sunny islands of Malta, in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, are home to a most remarkable concentration of intact built heritage, including the highest density of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in any nation-state anywhere. Valletta, built by the proud Knights of St. John, is one of the UNESCO sites and the European Capital of Culture for 2018. Malta’s patrimony in stone ranges from the oldest free-standing stone architecture in the world, to one of the British Empire’s most formidable defensive systems, and includes a rich mix of domestic, religious and military architecture from the ancient, medieval and early modern periods. With superbly sunny weather, attractive beaches, a thriving nightlife and 7,000 years of intriguing history, there is a great deal to see and do. 

For more information on Malta, go to visitmalta.com.

Read more: Malta featured for 2nd year on Forbes Luxury Star Awards 2023

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The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) on February 15, 2023, announced the winners of the Caribbean Sustainable Tourism Awards Competition 2022 at a Virtual Awards Function.

CTO has been hosting the Caribbean Sustainable Tourism Awards from 2000 to coincide with the start of the new millennium, in seeking to support and promote the sustainable development of tourism in the Caribbean.

The Awards aim to identify and showcase sustainable tourism good practices undertaken in CTO member countries in the Caribbean and is open to individual entrepreneurs, destination management organizations, tourism businesses and others, which have developed innovative tourism related products, services or experiences and in implementing these initiatives adhere to responsible and sustainable tourism practices.

“At the core of all CTO’s efforts is advocating for the sustainable and inclusive growth of Caribbean tourism, towards a viable, resilient and responsible tourism sector. This requires careful consideration of tourism’s impact on local communities that live, work and thus support the tourism economy in our many destinations, with equal care and attention to promote conservation and responsible use of our valuable yet fragile natural resources, cultural and heritage assets,” said Neil Walters, Acting Secretary General of the CTO, delivering opening remarks at the Virtual Awards Function.

He added that, “The Caribbean Sustainable Tourism Awards provide a platform to recognise the efforts made by the regional tourism sector in advancing the sustainable tourism development agenda and continue to be a vital part of CTO’s efforts to reward sustainability champions in Caribbean tourism. Importantly, the Awards endeavour to celebrate initiatives that enhance the Caribbean tourism value proposition, while positioning the region as the ultimate sustainable tourism zone. In this regard, we commend all 27 applicants that submitted entries for the 2022 Caribbean Sustainable Tourism Awards. You are all winners!”

The 2022 edition of the Awards comprised of five categories: Excellence in Sustainable Tourism Award, Destination Stewardship and Resilience Award, Tourism Health and Safety Award, Community-Based Tourism Award and the Tourism Education and Training Award.

The CTO assembled an Award Selection Committee comprising a cadre of regional and international experts representing various areas of the tourism sector, including tourism development specialists and practitioners, academics and regional consultants to judge submissions. Following the review by the distinguished panel of judges, the results of the Caribbean Sustainable Tourism Awards 2022 are:

Read more: Winners of 2022 Caribbean Sustainable Tourism Awards announced

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The Uganda Conservation Media Awards are aimed at promoting conservation reporting across all forms of media. The launch doubles as a call for entries for the Uganda Conservation Media Awards 2023 to reward outstanding reporting about wildlife conservation and environmental issues.

A press briefing held at UWA headquarters in Kololo,Kampala yesterday and released by Head of Communications UWA Hangi Bashir states:

“Uganda Wildlife Authority recognizes the critical role the media plays in raising awareness, and aims to encourage, motivate, and inspire journalists to produce the best in conservation reporting.”

“It is our anticipation that these awards will encourage more reporting by the Ugandan media about the conservation successes in our nation, challenges, and the solutions to  those challenges,” said Uganda Wildlife Authority Executive Director, Sam Mwandha.

“Conserving Uganda’s wildlife and natural heritage is vitally important. Therefore, we hope to see reporting on the success stories as well as the problems,” he added. Mr. Mwandha observed that UWA works with partners including the media to execute its conservation mandate and that the role of media in conservation cannot be overstated.

“Media plays a fundamental role in highlighting efforts and challenges for wildlife conservation and helps set the agenda and frame messages for public debate.”

“In so doing, the media influences public opinion, making it a key partner for the conservation fraternity,” said Mwandha.

The main objective of the Uganda Conservation Media Awards is to develop and promote excellence in conservation reporting.

The awards feature 4 categories:

1. Community conservation. Including human-wildlife conflict and ways to address it.

2. Wildlife protection. Anything from rangers to vets.

3. Wildlife crime. Including arrests, prosecutions, and legal implications.

4. Habitats and environment. Should explain relevance to wildlife.

In each category, separate awards will be given for the following media groups:

1. Print and/or online

2. Radio

3. Television

A separate award will be given for the Uganda Wildlife Photograph of the Year.

Winners will be given a cash award of 5,000,000 Uganda shillings (approximately US$1,400), a winner’s plaque, and free entry to Uganda’s national parks for the winner for one year.

The awards are co-sponsored by conservation group WildAid, and winners will be announced at a special ceremony in July 2023.

Read more: Uganda and the media supporting conservation

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This can be accomplished by applying for the 2023 IMEX-EIC Innovation in Sustainability Award. 

The award – open to organizers, venues, and suppliers – champions the ambition and achievements of teams who are raising the bar in sustainable event innovation. The closing deadline is February 6, 2023.

Applications are now open for the award which has been designed to celebrate meeting, incentive and exhibition professionals driving sustainability through innovation, collaboration and idea-sharing.

Their accomplishments will be reviewed by a global panel of judges from across the business events sector, with the winner announced at the IMEX Frankfurt Gala Dinner in May.

Judges lending their experience and expertise

• Courtney Lohmann – Director of Corporate Social Responsibility, PRA Business Events
• Jaime Nack – President, Three Squares Inc
• Roger Simons – Director of Sustainability, Marina Bay Sands
• Stephanie Jones – Managing Director, Professional Development and Event Strategy, Water Environment Federation
• Bettina Reventlow-Mourier – Deputy Convention Director – Head of Congress, Copenhagen Convention Bureau and winner of the 2022 IMEX-EIC Innovation in Sustainability Award.

The awards place a very deliberate focus on innovation and creative thinking. These skills are key to driving environmental improvements as evidenced at the recent UN Climate Change Conference COP27 where innovative approaches to tackle climate change were highlighted, notably in the areas of energy, food and buildings.

Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group, explains: “With the need for climate-friendly solutions growing ever greater, innovation is accelerating at a pace. Since the launch of the award in 2003 we’ve marveled at the many ways in which the business events sector has responded to the climate crisis with powerful, original thinking.

“According to a survey at IMEX America by Encore, an EIC strategic partner, 45 percent of planners believe social impact to be the most powerful way that events can effect change. The IMEX-EIC Innovation in Sustainability Award champions initiatives that create a positive impact on both the environment and communities.”

EIC CEO Amy Calvert added, “It is important to note that the IMEX-EIC Innovation in Sustainability Award has been designed to celebrate event professionals driving sustainability forward through innovation, collaboration and idea sharing.

“One of the most inspirational aspects of this award is the ability to share the stories of unified efforts and impact driven by steadfast commitment to the notion that together we are stronger.”

Business event professionals worldwide are invited to apply for the IMEX-EIC Innovation in Sustainability Award. The deadline is 6th February 2023 and more details can be found here. The winner will be announced at the IMEX Frankfurt Gala Dinner in May. 

IMEX Frankfurt takes place May 23-25, 2023.

eTurboNews is a media partner for IMEX.

Read more: Shining the spotlight on sustainability success

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Songtsam Linka Retreat Shangri-La, one of 16 properties of the award-winning luxury boutique hotel collection and Destination Management Company, Songtsam Hotels, Resorts & Tours, in the Tibet and Yunnan Provinces of China, made the coveted Condé Nast Traveler China’s Gold List as one of the ”Top 10 Hotels in China.” The timing of this recognition comes just as China announced the reopening of international borders and Songtsam will once again be able to welcome American travelers. 

Songtsam Linka Shangri-La, Songtsam’s first property, is located in Xiaojiezi village, adjacent to the famous Songzanlin Monastery, also known as “Little Potala.” It is 3280 meters (approx. 10,761 ft.) above sea level, with open terrain and idyllic scenery. All 92 rooms are traditional Tibetan-style integrated into modern aesthetics with wooden floors, fireplaces, Tibetan carpet, and hand-made copperware that create a cozy and pleasant atmosphere.

Songtsam Linka Retreat Shangri-La is home to Songtsam’s Linka Spa/Spa de La Mer which includes four therapy rooms featuring handmade bronze bathtubs, a Zen-style lounge, and is elaborately designed for traditional Kum Nye Tibetan massages. There are two restaurants, a Tibetan restaurant with local specialties such as yak meat hotpot and Yunnan cuisine, and a Western restaurant, which offers a breakfast buffet, à la carte, a selection of handpicked wines, and a spectacular view of the Songzanlin Monastery. The Songtsam Linka Retreat Shangri-La also houses the recently opened Songtsam Tibetan Art Museum, inaugurated in the summer of 2022. 

Shangri-La, a city in the Northwestern region of the Yunnan province of China, is thought to be the physical manifestation of the kingdom of Shambhala. Legend has it that in an unknown place on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, there is a mysterious kingdom called Shambhala. Here, people transcend their troubles and pains, and finally realize the true source of happiness. Songtsam’s founder, Baima Duoji, made this path to discover happiness a reality as part of the guest experience for those who stay at the Songtsam boutique hotels and participate in Songtsam Tours’ curated travel experiences. Thus enabling Songtsam guests to find and open The Hidden Door to Shambhala.

Songtsam Founder & Chairman, Baima Duoji, noted “as a hotel brand deeply rooted in Tibet and Yunnan, we are grateful for the Gold List 2023 recognition from such an iconic luxury brand as Condé Nast Traveler. The timing of this award recognition could not be better, since China has just reopened its international borders and Songtsam can once again welcome our American guests.”

Baima also emphasized:

“It is important to note that the entire Songtsam brand has a strong commitment to sustainability with our careful selection of hotel locations and ensuring that the property fits into the local environment.”

Baima added, “but it is our Songtsam team who we are the most proud of, and who are the backbone of the Songtsam success story. Over 92% of Songtsam employees, including the craftsmen used to construct a new property, are drawn from the local villages where the hotels are located, and we are pleased that this is a key contributing factor in the economic development of the surrounding communities.”

About Condé Nast Traveler Gold List

Gold List was founded in 1995. The magazine invites travel experts who pursue quality of life, understand and enjoy high-end travel methods, and have unique insights, to work with the “Condé Nast Traveler” editorial department to select the most favorite hotels, airlines, cruises, and destinations. In this way, the “Gold List” produced by multiple opinions and select results represents a truly objective quality choice and is regarded as the “gold standard” by global travel consumers.

About Songtsam 

Songtsam (“Paradise”) is an award-winning luxury collection of hotels, resorts and tours located in Tibet and Yunnan Province, China. Founded in 2000 by Mr. Baima Duoji, a former Tibetan Documentary filmmaker, Songtsam is the only collection of luxury Tibetan-style retreats within the wellness space focusing on the concept of Tibetan meditation by combining physical and spiritual healing together. The 16 unique properties can be found across the Tibetan Plateau, offering guests authenticity, within the context of refined design, modern amenities, and unobtrusive service in places of untouched natural beauty and cultural interest. Songtsam is a Virtuoso Preferred Partner. Songstam welcomes all travelers including families with children, travelers with disabilities and is LGBTQ+ friendly. 

About Songtsam Tours 

Songtsam Tours provides guests an opportunity to curate their own experiences by combining stays at its different hotels and lodges designed to discover the region’s diverse culture, rich biodiversity, incredible scenic landscapes, and unique living heritage. 

About Songtsam Mission 

Songtsam’s mission is to inspire their guests with the diverse ethnic groups and cultures of the region and to understand how the local people pursue and understand happiness, bringing Songtsam guests closer to discovering their own Shangri-La. At the same time, Songtsam has a strong commitment to sustainability and the preservation of the essence of Tibetan culture by supporting the economic development of the local communities and the environmental conservation within Tibet and Yunnan. Songtsam was on the 2018, 2019 & 2022 Condé Nast Traveler Gold List.

For more information about Songtsam visit songtsam/en/about.

Read more: Songtsam Linka Retreat Shangri-La wins Condé Nast Gold

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Crestline Hotels & Resorts, LLC, one of the nation’s largest independent hospitality management companies, announced today that it has been recognized with the coveted Marriott’s Serve 360 Award.

Serve 360 Award was presented as part of the Marriott International National Association (MINA) Conference.

The recognition is given to select hotel management companies that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to Marriott’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) efforts and 2025 Sustainability and Social Impact Goals. Marriott’s sustainability and social impact platform, Serve 360: Doing Good in Every Direction, supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and guides Marriott’s commitment to being a force for good. Crestline was recognized for making a positive and sustainable impact in conducting business, delivering value for associates, customers, owners, the environment, and communities.

Marriott’s award recognizes Crestline’s efforts in supporting Serve 360’s focus areas, identified as Nurture, Sustain, Empower and Welcome. The company’s efforts include the Crestline Can Challenge that gathered 23,000 cans of food and helped 50 community foodbanks in 2022.

“We are so proud of our more than 5000 associates who display the commitment and dedication that defines Crestline service, sustainable operations, and community engagement,” said James Carroll, Crestline’s President & CEO.

Read more: Crestline Hotels & Resorts receives Marriott’s Serve 360 Award

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The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), comprising St. Thomas, St. Croix and St John is receiving top honors from several prestigious media companies for 2023.

Conde Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, Porthole Cruise and Travel Magazine, Frommer’s, Yahoo! Life each gave the beautiful three island destination top recognition in important sectors for 2023. The USVI Department of Tourism also is looking back over a star-studded 2022 having been recognized as a tourism leader with many coveted hospitality awards.

The editors of Conde Nast Traveler put the USVI at the top of its Best Places to Go in 2023 citing the islands’ new hotels, resort openings, the national park, and Carnival festivals. The editors at Travel + Leisure ranked USVI as one of its 50 best 2023 destinations in its “For Beach Vibes” section. Yahoo! Life listed the USVI as one of the top ten tropical islands to get to in under three hours from the U.S. Readers of Porthole Cruise and Travel Magazine voted USVI as the Best Caribbean Cruise Destination for 2023. Frommer’s also gave the island territory top billing in its annual Best Places to Go in 2023 list. Staffers and contributors selected places that are heading in new directions, adding fresh attractions, gussying up old standbys, recovering from past challenges, and emerging as formidable competitors for more established tourism epicenters.

Commissioner of the USVI’s Department of Tourism, Joseph Boschulte, said “We are delighted to be recognized by these top travel media organizations. It is a great honor and a testament to the work of my colleagues and our partners to receive these awards. We strive to make our destination one of the best experiences visitors can have and we hope to continue this trajectory in 2023 and beyond.”

For its work in 2022, the USVI also was recognized with many different awards, including the Bronze HSMAI Adrian Awards. For 65 years the Adrian Awards have honored excellence in travel marketing. The Caribbean Journal named Commissioner Joseph Boschulte Caribbean Tourism Executive of the Year as well as The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2023 and the readers also voted the USVI the winner of the CJ Caribbean Travelers’ Choice Awards 2022, These readers travel to the Caribbean multiple times each year, scouring the region for the newest and the greatest, searching out hotels, beaches, restaurants, and experiences. The USVI was recognized as the Best Caribbean Wedding Destination; the Best Cruise Port in the Caribbean: St Thomas; the Best Adults-Only Resort in the Caribbean: The Fred, St Croix; and the Best Caribbean Villa Destination: St John.  

Also, Conde Nast Traveler ranked the USVI in its prestigious Readers’ Choice Awards as the Best Islands in the World. 2022 is the 35th year of the magazine’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards which continue to capture the travel experiences the Conde Nast Traveler readers love best. Not to be outdone, Global Traveler Magazine just announced the 2022 winners of its 19^th annual GT Test Reader Survey Awards and the U.S. Virgin Islands won for Best Offshore Business Location.  

Individual resorts and hotels on USVI also received recognition in 2022. Secret Harbour Beach Resort won Tripadvisor 2022 Travelers’ Choice Award. This award celebrates businesses that have earned great traveler reviews on Tripadvisor over the last 12 months. As challenging as the pandemic was, Secret Harbour stood out (and continues to stand out) by delighting travelers who stay at the tranquil and well-managed beachfront Caribbean resort. In March of this year, Secret Harbour Beach Resort also was written up by Travel Lemming as the best hotel overall on St. Thomas and other hotels and harbors also received top honors from the travel site.

SMARTmeetings recognized Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort in 2022 with the Best Island Hotel. Located high above the Caribbean Sea on St. Thomas, the new accommodation includes 384 guest rooms, six restaurants and lounge areas, three oceanfront pools, 72,000 square feet of event space and 2,000 square feet of private dock area. 

Conde Nast Traveler editors also voted USVI as having the Best Airbnb in the Caribbean. In this case, Cruz Bay on St. John, won with its cliffside swimming pool, fine Belgian linens, and well-outfitted kitchen (there’s an ice cream maker). It is a three-bedroom villa with views of Rendezvous Bay and is close to the Virgin Islands National Park, a 7,000-acre preserve with immaculate beaches and kaleidoscopic coral reefs.

With at least two new resorts about to open in the USVI, and tourism numbers up 44%, the USVI is gearing up for a very successful 2023. Already the three-island Territory has reported the highest hotel occupancy rate in the Caribbean with 72.5% from June 2021 to May 2022 and revenues to match.

This positive outlook is enhanced by the new branding campaign, “Naturally in Rhythm,” that supports the hotel recovery and is designed to inspire visitors to fall naturally in rhythm with the diverse culture, natural wonders, and beautiful hotels and resorts of St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John. The two new properties opening in St. Thomas, the first in 30 years for the island are: The Westin Beach Resort and Spa at Frenchman’s Reef; and The Seaborn at Frenchman’s Reef, an Autograph Collection, following more than a $425 million dollar investment in the property. 

Read more: US Virgin Islands tourism and hotels recognized

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Great Britain’s King Charles III honored Sonu Shivdasani, Founder and CEO of Soneva, the trailblazing luxury eco-resorts in the Maldives and Thailand, as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his contributions to tourism, sustainability and charity, as part of the King’s New Year Honors 2023 List.

Born in England, Sonu is an alumnus of Eton College and a graduate of Oxford University.

It was during his time at Oxford that he met his Swedish-born wife Eva and together they fell in love with the Maldives.

Read more: Soneva hotelier now Officer of Order of the British Empire (OBE)

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The first rewards and incentive program designed specifically for Latin American travel agents who sell Antigua & Barbuda was launched today.

The exclusive webinar, “AyBGurúsRewards”, was designed and presented by EM Marketing & Communication.

The launch was held exclusively for the entire Latin American region with the entire support of Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority.

Read more: Antigua & Barbuda rewards for Latin American travel agents

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eTurboNews:

2022 was a rollercoaster year for the travel and tourism industry. A year that started with a glimmer of hope and ended for many with record business coming back.

This year also brought out the best in so many members of our sector. We were proud to have facilitated the Rebuilding travel discussion throughout the pandemic. Everyone was invited to interact with colleagues working in the sector.

Zoom made it possible for anyone to actually get to talk to many of these celebrities in our sector who are most of the time shielded normally sit in the VIP section at events, and most of us are unable to get to .

From my end, as the publisher of eTurboNews I made so many new friends, and noticed we are all a club of dedicated people, that should be able to work together and make a difference in this world. SKAL has it correct in promoting for members to do business among friends.

COVID-19 brought a lot of challenges and suffering, but going through such times also taught us a lot.

I am sharing with you a sample list of people, I was able to interact with in 2022. Every single person listed below made a difference to me, and I am grateful for everyone mentioned and so many more I may have not yet mentioned.

The list is not in order of importance, there is no order

How to make it official?

Anyone listed here, and anyone else qualified, please click here to make it official, and become a tourism hero on heroes.travel .

This is a free initiative by the by World Tourism Network. WTN will never ask for fees, marketing money or contributions. Heroes is open to anyone deserving, regardless of how important your position may be.

Publishers’ personal list of Travel and Tourism Heroes in 2022

• Dr. Caroli Janice Campos, Makato Medical Center, Manila, Philiipines
• Dr. Raul Lapitan, Makato Medical Center, Manila, Philippines
• Dr. Gisbert Victor, Makato Medical Center, Manila, Philippines
• Nurse Czafiyhra Zaycev, “Irish,” a tourism hero, and Makati Medical Center, Manila, Philippines.
• Dr. Asim Shahzad, Dusseldorf, Germany
• Dr. Peter Tarlow, College Station, Texas, USA; President World Tourism Network, President Safer Tourism.
• Dr. Taleb Rifai, Patron African Tourism Board, Amman, Jordan
• Prof. Geoffrey Lipman, SunX and ICTP, Brussels, Belgium
• Mudi Astuti, Chairwomen WTN Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
• Levi Lantu, CEO · Bali Convention and Exhibition Bureau, Indonesia
• Yoke Darmawan, Jakarta, Indonesia
• Dr. Aleksandra Sasha, Tourism Hero, Director of Tourism Montenegro
• Hon. I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister, Bahamas
• Hon. Edmund Bartlett, WTN Tourism Hero, Minister of Tourism Jamaica
• Hon. Ian Gooding-Edghill, Minister Tourism Barbados
• Hon Minister Goran  Djurovic, Minister of Tourism, Montenegro
• Hon. Najib Balala, WTN Tourism Hero, Former Min. Tourism Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
• Dr. Walter Mzembi, WTN Tourism Hero, Zimbabwe
• Barbara Mzembi, Dance Tourism ,South Africa
• Louis D’Amore, President and Founder, International Institute for Peace Through Tourism (IIPT), New York, USA
• Hamid Reza Talebi, Chair Iran – American Tourism Association, Teheran, Iran
• Dho Young-shim, UN World Tourism Organization’s Sustainable Tourism for Eliminating Poverty Foundation
• Richard Quest, CNN, London, UK
• HE Dr. Htay Aung, Union Minister of Tourism Myanmar
• Frank Vismeg, ONT, Canada
• Zeyar Myo Aung, Ministry of Tourism Myanmar
• Arvind Nayer, Vintage Travel, Zimbabwe
• Bea Broda, Travel Broadcaster, Toronto, Canada
• Christian Del Rosario, Photographer, Florida, USA
• Cuthbert Ncube, Chair African Tourism Board, Pretoria, South Africa
• Diana McIntyre-Pike, Countrystyle Community Tourism Network, Jamaica
• Mark Manglona, Guam Visitors Bureau, Guam
• Josh Tyquiengco, Guam Visitors Bureau, Guam
• Elaine Pangelinan, Guam Visitors Bureau, Guam
• Nadine Leon Guerrero, Guam Visitors Bureau
• Burkhard Herbote, World Tourism Directory, Germany
• Max Haberstroh, Tourism Hero, Germany
• Snežana Štetić, Balkan Network of Tourism Experts, Serbia
• Wolfgang Hofmann, SKAL, Duesseldorf, Germany
• Donovan White, Director of Tourism, Jamaica
• Faouzou Deme, Ministry of Tourism Senegal
• Pankaj Pradhananga, Four Seasons Travel, Nepal
• Sherin Francis, Principle Secretary of Tourism, Seychelles
• Tony Ofungi, eTN Reporter, Uganda
• Hon. Memunatu Pratt, Minister of Tourism, Sierra Leone
• Andrew Wood, SKAL Asia, Thailand
• Jens Thraenhart, CEO Barbados Tourism, Barbados
• Hon. Moses Vilakati, Minister of Tourism, Kingdom of Eswatini
• Deepak Joshi, Tourism Hero, Kathmandu, Nepal
• Hon. Hisham Zaazou, Cairo, Egypt
• Anita Johnson-Patty, Bahamas Tourism Board, Bahamas
• Robert Payne, FRAPORT, Germany
• Hon. Kenneth Bryan, Minister of Tourism Cayman Islands
• Burcin Turkhan, President SKAL International, USA
• Annette Cardenas, Director SKAL, Panama
• Hon. Gloria Guevara, Advisor to the Minister of Tourism Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
• Hon Alain St. Ange, VP, World Tourism Network, Seychelles
• Julia Simpson, CEO WTTC, UK
• Daniel Vivas, Lima, Peru
• Holger Timmreck, Lima Peru
• Ajay Prakash, IIPT, India
• Johnson Johnrose,  Sint Eustatius
• Christopher Byneal, Office of Trade and Development, Trinidad & Tobago
• Maribel Rodriguez, Senior Vice President WTTC, Spain
• Axel Timmreck, Airport Munich, Germany
• Mohammed Hakim Ali, WTN Bangladesh
• Paul Rogers, Happyness Alliance, Australia
• Lily Ajarova, CEO of Uganda Tourism Board, Uganda
• Debby Flynn, Partner, Finnpartners, UK
• Dimitri Belov, Tourism Marketing Duesseldorf, Germany
• Jonathan Pansacola, Saudia, Los Angeles, CA, USA
• Adam Stewart, CEO, Sandals Resorts, Jamaica
• Shawn DaCosta, Sandals Resorts, Jamaica
• Tom Jenkins, CEO ETOA, London, UK
• Ivan Liptuga, WTN Tourism Hero, National Tourism Association, Odesa, Ukraine
• Mariana Oleskiv, State Agency for Tourism Development of Ukraine
• Apolinary Tairo, eTurboNews Tanzania
• Gerald Lawless, Chairman WTTC, London, UK
• Ibrahim Ayoub, ITIC Mauritius
• Lloyd Waller, GTRCMC, Jamaica
• Hon Saiahudin Uno, Minster of Tourism Indonesia
• Michael Meyer, President SKAL Duesseldorf, Germany
• Karen Hoffmann, The Bradford Group, New York, USA
• Dr. Elinor Garely, eTurboNews, New York, USA
• Linda Hohnhols, eTurboNews Las Vegas, NV, USA
• Oleg Sziakov, eTurboNews, Las Vegas, NV, USA
• Dmytro Makarov, eTurboNews, Honolulu, HI, USA
• Sharlene Batin, Manila, Philippines
• Michelle M. Buttigieg , Malta Tourism USA, New York, USA
• Hon Niels Olsen, Minister of Tourism Ecuador
• Nicki Page, TLC Harmony London, UK
• Anita Mendiratta, Special Advisor Secretary-General UNWTO, Madrid, Spain
• Gillian Heath, IMEX, London, UK
• Hassan Merchant, Reed World Travel Market, Dubai, UAE
• Elvis Kotherja, Elite Travel Group, Albania
• Linda Lancaster, Travel Circles Club, London, UK
• Dov Kalmann, Tourism Hero, Israel
• Magued Abousedera, Undersecretary Tourism, Cairo, Egypt
• Maria del Pilar Salas, SKAL Cusco, Peru
• Marilou, Restaurant Manager, Marriott Hotel Manila, Philippines
• Clare Akamanzi, CEO, Rwana Development Board
• Petra Roach, Grenada Tourism Authority
• Hon. Lennox Andrew, Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Creative Economy, Agriculture and Lands, Fisheries and Cooperatives, Grenada
• Carlo Milcallef, CEP Malta Tourism Board, Malta
• Intifada Naime, Senior Sales Manager, Moevenpick Marrakech, Morocco
• Hon. Harin Fernando, Minister of Toursm & Lands, Colombo, Sri Lanka
• Evan Tillet, Director of Tourism Belize
• Adam Nije, Director Marketing, Gambia Tourism Board, Gambia
• Dhananjay Regmi, CEO, Nepal Tourism Board, Kathmandu, Nepal
• Anthony Stuart, Senior Dir. Emerging Markets Bahamas
• Paun Nicovic, Blue Kotor Bay, Montenegro
• Vijay Poonoosamy, Singapore
• Peter Mayers, Barbados Tourism Board
• Rudi Herrmann, WTN Malaysia & Tourism Hero, Penang, Malaysia
• Anthony Barker, Tourism Hero, DaNang, Vietnam
• Eric Muzamhindo, Activist, Zimbabwe
• Mohamad Reza, Persian Gryphon Travel Group, Iran
• Abraham John, India
• Windy Yang, SKAL Taipei, Taiwan
• Graham Cooke, World Travel Awards, UK
• Ali Aligi, Tour Guide, Ryadh, Saudi Arabia
• Noha, Ministry of Tourism Saudi Arabia
• Pascal Viroleau, CEO Vanilla Island Tourism Organization, Reunion
• Ismail El Alaoui, Tour Guide, Marrakesh, Morocco
• Mohamed Raaidh, Yacht Club, Maldives
• Philippe Francoise, President AMFORHT, Paris, France
• Felix Chaila, Lusaka, Zambia
• Zine Nkukwana, Pretoria, South Africa
• Noel Mignott, New York, USA
• Wolgang Huschert, The Golden Citygate, Hilden, Germany
• Birgit Trauer, Germany
• Michael Seipelt, eTurboNews, Dusseldorf, Germany
• Nick Mahoney, Sydney, Australia
• Linda L.Nxumalo, Eswatini
• Avi Liran, Singapore
• Irene, tour guide, Mykonos, Greece
• Ghassan Sader, Los Angeles, CA, USA
• Mona Naffa, Amman, Jordan
• Mr. Sader, Portofino, Montenegro
• Ezzat Kalbourneh, Jordan Tourism Board, Amman, Jordan
• Ben Wozny, General Manager Grand Hyatt, Amman, Jordan
• Pichai Visutriratana,director Navinda Krabi Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand
• Scott Foster, Honolulu, HI, USA
• Frank Haas, Honolulu, HI, USA
• Dale Evans, CEO, Charley’s Taxi, Honolulu, HI , USA
• Pamala Taylor, Sun Island Hawaii, USA
• Ghissou Rosala, Smart Energy, Hawaii, USA
• Karine Coulanges, SKAL Paris, France
• Hulya Aslantas, SKAL Istanbul, Turkey
• Birger Bäckman, UFTA & SKAL, Finland
• Mok Singh, Skal International Past President, USA
• Dr. Gulen Hashmi, Pakistan
• Anonymous UNWTO Staff information group

There are so many more of us considered to be tourism heroes on this beautiful planet.

Click here to nominate your tourism hero.

To everyone reading eTurboNews, Happy News Year and Aloha ! It’s truly a priviledge to stay in touch with more than 2 million of you.

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Click here to subscribe to our WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook or Linkedin groups, email newsletters or breaking news alerts.

We definitely suggest you upgrade to our premium access.

Are you not yet a member of the World Tourism Network? Click here to join!

Read more: Happy Heroes New Year! 2022 Travel and Tourism Heroes named

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eTurboNews:

This esteemed event celebrates travel industry leaders, and Seychelles Tourism was an exclusive Travel Partner early in December 2022 at the One & Only Royal Mirage Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The awards recognize the noteworthy contributions of the Tourism and Travel community to the global scene. The attending nominees and guests included CEOs, Managing Directors, High-Net-Worth individuals, and key personalities from the travel and tourism industry.

In attendance at the event, the Tourism Seychelles representative in the Middle East, Mr Ahmed Fathallah, presented some of the awards on-stage for the categories: Places to Stay in the MENA Region – Favorite Desert Escape, Favorite Destination Spa Resort, Favorite Family Hotel, and Favorite Hotel for Private Pool Villas.

In recognition and celebration of the finalists and award winners, a high-profile dinner was hosted after the awards ceremony, bringing together Dubai’s social elite.

“With the long-lasting relationship we have with Conde Nast Traveller, it is such an honor for Tourism Seychelles to be an exclusive Travel Partner in such a significant and grand ceremony as this one.”

“We are delighted for all the winners, and we come here together to celebrate the success of the entire tourism industry. Indeed, as the year ends, we can see that the travel & tourism industry has gotten back on its feet, and we are looking forward to more success for the industry in the MENA region and beyond,” said Fathallah.

The collaboration with Conde Nast Traveller was made through the Tourism Seychelles office in the Middle East. Recognized as the standard for excellence in the travel and tourism industry, Conde Nast Traveller’s Reader’s Choice Awards is held to celebrate the best-in-class destinations, resorts, hotels, airlines and destinations in the Middle East and beyond.

Read more: Seychelles: Exclusive Travel Partner at Conde Nast Awards

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eTurboNews:

eTurboNews Publisher Juergen Steinmetz is giving his feedback on the year 2022 – one he will never forget. It started with his first vacation since the outbreak of COVID after celebrating Christmas with his family in Germany.

“Stuck” for 2 weeks in quarantine in my vacation apartment on the beautiful Greek island of Mykonos, followed by 3 more days in a hotel in historic Athens, COVID set the tone for the beginning of the year with restrictions and more lockdowns.

Gradually witnessing a resilient industry fighting for survival, and turning this fight against COVID with more vaccination rules in place to make it COVID-free did not work. Allowing the world to accept the pandemic and live with it seems to be working better, especially after widespread vaccination.

The Philippines Department of Tourism which hosted the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Summit in April 2022, when COVID was still an enormous threat to this ASEAN country, took a brave step for the world to come together. For the land of Mabuhay, it was a steep investment to welcome the world of tourism leaders to its shores. It set the foundation for communication and resilience, allowing the travel and tourism sector to stand together.

The second WTTC annual summit last month (November 2022) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was able to build on the achievements in the Philippines and took tourism not only to the next level but catapulted it into a bright future.

For me, Saudi Arabia was another very different experience. I asked myself, why would anyone want to visit KSA? Click here for my take. It could not just be for the camel chocolate.

As a founder of Tourism Resilience Day, outspoken Jamaica Tourism Minister, the Hon. Edmund Bartlett was able to push his new Jamaica-founded Global Tourism Resilience & Crisis Management Centre (GTRCMC) with new satellite locations around the globe.

The Saudi Tourism Minister, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, became a guardian of this global industry and spent the billions of dollars necessary not only to prevent many tourism economies from going under, but also for the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and WTTC by providing a second home.

Saudi Arabia invested by hiring the most known people this industry has to offer; implementing the best global tourism brands in its growth plans; and including programs about tourism and climate change, investments, and mega projects. The new top advisor to the Saudi Minister was known as the most influential woman in global tourism, former CEO of WTTC, and Minister of Tourism for Mexico, Gloria Guevara.

For me personally, the Philippines was a life-changing experience, as I caught a flesh-eating bacteria in Hawaii, that attacked my leg after I landed in Manila. I was admitted to the Makati Medical Center in Manila. Here, I witnessed who the true heroes in this world really are, and I understand why the Philippines would be the ultimate global medical tourism destination.

They are the healthcare workers, specifically, the Philippine doctors and nurses that did a world-class job with a smile and a soul behind their every move.

I also realized our community of travel industry leaders coming together, and so many showed how much they care. I want to thank the Manila Marriott Hotel for not charging for the nights I occupied their room and stayed in a hospital, and I want to thank the nurse that the World Tourism Network made a hero. Here is her story.

It’s an experience I will never forget. It confirms tourism is a business of peace, friendship, and working together. SKAL got it correct in saying their organization is built on its members “doing business amongst friends.” The SKAL Summit in Rijeka, Croatia, in October was an event of fun, relief, and hope.

I was proud to have received a SKAL Ambassador of the Year award in recognition of outstanding contributions.

Traveling to 27 countries on 6 continents this year, the hunger for travel and tourism surpassed the fear of COVID-19. It appeared no one felt really threatened anymore.

Having a pastry in busy and sunny Innsbruck, Austria; driving in my AVIS rental car from Croatia via Italy, Slovenia, Bosnia Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania to Serbia; staying in Dusseldorf, Germany; attending the International Film Festival in Marrakesh, Morocco after a very busy World Travel Market (WTM) trade show in London; experiencing a new Saudi Arabia; meeting good friends including Mr. Tourism himself, Dr. Tabel Rifai, at his home in Jordan; having a fantastic time and a birthday party in Bangkok, Thailand, made 2022 a year of travel, resilience, and new experiences.

I made my first trip to Malta – a world on its own and lots of history on a swall Mediterranean island nation.

Specifically, meeting new good friends through our WTN Rebuilding Travel discussions during COVID on Zoom – the Director of Tourism for Montenegro, Aleksandra Gardasevic-Slavuljica, and Professor Snežana Štetić, in Serbia – was a privilege. There will be more in my New Year article remembering the most important people in tourism.

2022 turned out to be a game changer.

I learned about the lack of preventive health care in the United States and opportunities for medical tourism in the Philippines, Serbia, and Germany.

IMEX America in Las Vegas and the World Travel Market in London this year made it clear that the meeting and incentive market is no longer just handled on Zoom and was back in full force.

The Caribbean Tourism Organization meeting in the Cayman Islands brought excitement and a call for unity back to a tourism-dependent region of the world.

Tourism is alive and kicking again, and so is eTurboNews. Thanks to our dedicated staff working on reduced pay 24/7 for more than 2 years, we all made it through the worst, staying strong, motivated, and becoming even more influential.

If it wasn’t for our friends, the tourism boards of Jamaica, Seychelles, Malta, Bahamas, Barbados, Guam, Jordan, Montenegro, Hamburg, Uganda, Northern Cape, Eswatini, and from the private sector: Sandals Resorts, SunX, Reed Expo, IMEX, Saudi Arabian Airlines, The Bradford Group, WTTC, UNIGLOBE, FRAPORT, EUROEXPO, among others, eTurboNews would have also become a victim of these difficult times.

The people in the travel and tourism industry are the true doers, and those that survived the economic challenges of this pandemic are the true leaders.

We will list our personal tourism heroes for 2022 in a special feature article before the New Year.

The pandemic decreased our trade readers from 230,000 to 170,000 but increased our non-trade travel readers from 150,000 to more than 2 million.

Rebuilding travel was our discussion born because of COVID and was the foundation of the World Tourism Network.

With more than 1,000 members in 128 countries, WTN has been becoming relevant in the industry, and our goal to speak for the medium- and small-sized businesses of the world is becoming a reality on so many fronts.

Ringing in the New Year from my beautiful home, the Aloha State of Hawaii will open the doors to an even better future. Our first World Tourism Network Summit in September in Bali, Indonesia, will be our focus.

May I also add a word of caution not to take today’s sold-out hotels, full airplanes, and overwhelming positive outlook research studies for granted?

A UNWTO Secretary General, who tried everything possible to ban eTurboNews from attending press events, did not succeed. We made more “secret” friends who asked to remain anonymous within the organization than ever before.

I would especially like to thank Anita Mendiratta, who contributed to eTurboNews, when our publication co-founded the CNN Task group and she was the top advisor for former UNWTO Secretary General Dr. Taleb Rifai. She became the special advisor for the current Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili and never lost her kind and smart words handling the social media accounts for her boss.

Inflation, an energy crisis, and a war in Ukraine, together with just released indications of a weaker Christmas and New Year season in destinations such as Hawaii should indicate how fragile many predictions of further growth are.

We are doing okay for now, and 2023 will shed light on how our sector will actually continue to develop with so many factors playing into the mix.

Guam has a good approach, ringing in 2023 with a drone show. After all, Guam is the place where America starts in 2023.

Happy New Year, and for those celebrating Christmas, Merry Christmas to all loyal eTurboNews readers. Aloha!

Juergen Steinmetz
Publisher eTurboNews

Read more: Travel and Tourism in 2022: What a Roller Coaster Year!

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eTurboNews:

The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) Department of Tourism Commissioner Joseph Boschulte has been named Caribbean Tourism Executive of the Year.

The editors of the Caribbean Journal (CJ), that has bestowed the distinction on Mr. Boschulte, write, “No Caribbean destination has seen more growth in the last three years than the US Virgin Islands. So much of that growth can be directly tied to the expert stewardship of Boschulte, who helped craft an innovative, flexible response to the challenges of the pandemic and has continued to drive the USVI’s performance with a data-driven, creative approach to modern tourism.”

In the past three years, the USVI comprising its three beautiful islands, St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John, has become one of the world’s most admired destinations not only for its dazzling beauty but for its smart tourism strategies and tactics.

Joseph Boschulte, said “I am extremely honored to receive this prestigious recognition especially after these three challenging years. I am fortunate and grateful to lead a talented and hardworking group of colleagues. This award is also a testament to their great dedication, and the cooperation of our partners as we all work closely together on each of our tourism initiatives.”

During the pandemic when cruising, which accounted for 70% of USVI’s tourism income, literally ceased, it became clear to Boschulte that things had to change, and that the digital world would play an important role in this process. In addition to adroitly shifting from cruise ship travel to hotel and airline partnerships, the USVI implemented an online travel screening portal and worked closely with all local partners, including restaurants, hotels, excursion companies, and other tourism-related businesses, to make visitors and local businesses feel safe and protected.

Boschulte also supported the USVI’s initiatives with a new branding campaign, “Naturally in Rhythm,” that promotes the hotel recovery and is designed to inspire visitors to fall naturally in rhythm with the diverse culture, natural wonders, and beautiful hotels and resorts of St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John.

The multi-pronged strategies and digital tactics, unceasing networking with airlines and industry partners, and laser dedication, have clearly paid off. With at least two new resorts about to open in the USVI, and tourism numbers up 44%, the USVI is gearing up for a very successful 2023. Already the three-island Territory has reported the highest hotel occupancy rate in the Caribbean with 72.5% from June 2021 to May 2022 and revenues to match.

Read more: USVI tourism chief named Caribbean Tourism Executive of 2023

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The profile of Tanzania’s tourism destination has raised a rung higher, as its national parks custodian has been scooped a prestigious European Quality Choice Diamond award in 2022.

Read more: Tanzania state-run conservation agency scoops top European Quality Choice Award

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eTurboNews:

Led by Jamaica Tourism Minister, the Hon. Edmund Bartlett, employees who have worked in the tourism sector for 50 years or more were recognized at the Golden Tourism Day Awards.

“Tonight, I awarded 14 tourism workers who have dedicated 50 years or more to working in our beloved tourism industry with the Golden Tourism Award,” said Minister Bartlett at the event.

“I was truly honored to have the opportunity to acknowledge and applaud their many years of commitment and dedication to this incredibly important sector that contributes so much to our nation’s economy.”

“I would like to thank each and every one of you for your hard work, dedication, and high level of professionalism that have set the bar for hospitality standards and best practices today,” said Minister Bartlett.