Category: Latest Travel News

Caribbean, Mexico, January 5, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Corona Island is a paradise in the middle of the Caribbean, where architecture blends in with the natural landscape. Imagine a place where you can enjoy unique experiences that will connect you with nature. An island where you can be part of the Earth’s rhythm, learning about what comes from the sea and sun. Here, you’ll see the most impressive sunsets and celebrate them in Corona style.

Corona Island will only host a small number of guests at a time in order to preserve the island’s low ecological impact, and there won’t be a lot of ways for travelers to win access to this promising destination.

Corona Beer announced Corona Island, a unique destination for visitors to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with the natural world. Slated to open in late Spring 2022 in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, Corona Island will be a magical destination centered around sustainability and is striving to become “Blue Verified” by Oceanic Global as part of the international NGO’s rigorous Blue Standard program. The verification and assessment addresses measures including: single-use plastic elimination and implementation of responsible waste management infrastructure. The assessment is currently underway with Corona Island set to become the first fully Blue Verified Island by its launch in spring of next year.

Corona Island has partnered with non-profit Oceanic Global to ensure Corona Island operates with a minimal environmental footprint. Corona Island is working to achieve Oceanic Global’s Blue Standard to verify the Island’s efforts to eliminate single-use plastics and adopt responsible practices that work in harmony with the natural world.

Bangkok, Thailand, December 30, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / To offer guests a truly transformative experience this festive season, Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel has partnered with Bangkok-based art gallery Joyman to curate a visually arresting exhibition of contemporary art. Taking place from 9 December 2021 to 31 January 2022, the ‘Quantum Kawaii’ show explores the concept of beauty in the 21st century, as seen through the artistic vision of five Thailand-based artists working across various media, from digital painting and 3D animation to manga.

Rather than focusing on high or conceptual art, the show aims to be accessible to a broader audience, whilst posing important questions about living in today’s highly digitised society. Japanese manga fans will easily recognise kawaii references, while technology buffs will delight in the creative use of VR, holograms and other technology.

“In the age of the internet, when ideas and trends, whether it’s memes, crypto, AR or photo filters, spread with lightning speed, certain aesthetic values become common on a global scale,” said Bancha Wongchotiwat, the head curator at Joyman gallery. “With this unique show at Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel, we wanted hotel guests, restaurant patrons and art lovers to explore this globalised concept of beauty at the confluence of the digital and quantum ages.”

On the main exhibition area on the lobby 11th floor, guests will be greeted by a psychedelic motion collage on conjoined TV screens by Tyler James Bangkok, an American artist living and working in Asia. There will also have a dramatic virtual painting on VR glass by an award-winning Thai artist Ayino Verapong Sritrakulkitjakarn; a piece merging Sci-Fi stop-motion animation and hologram technology by Tarntara Sudaduang, a young Thai artist inspired by the cutest animals on earth which has been seen from extraterrestrial; a pop-art style sculpture by Bobby Leash who channels his love for Japanese manga and video games in his striking piece; and a dramatic, angular sculpture by MaMaMiya that evokes origami.

Art lovers can see these pieces in the lobby on level 11 of Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel from 9 December 2021 to 31 January 2022. Entry is free.

Macao, Macao SAR, December 31, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Venetian Macao’s Jiang Nan by Jereme Leung restaurant in partnership with renowned celebrity master chef Jereme Leung features the very best of Jiangnan cuisine, showcasing the authentic flavours of Shanghai, Jiangsu and Zhejiang.

A pioneer of modern Chinese cuisine and winner of multiple culinary awards, Chef Jereme is one of the most creative and inspiring chefs in the industry. Born in Hong Kong, he honed his craft in Singapore, and has been active on the Chinese culinary scene ever since. Chef Jereme was a judge on the Chinese edition of MasterChef for several years, and appeared in the popular food documentary ‘A Bite of China’. His revolutionary combination of contemporary techniques and presentation with traditional recipes has pushed the boundaries, taking the culinary world by storm and reigniting interest in Chinese cuisine.

“Jiang Nan by Jereme Leung at The Venetian Macao represents an unparalleled opportunity to share this superb yet underrepresented regional cuisine,” commented Chef Jereme Leung. “Through the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients and contemporary cooking techniques, we will present an elevated dining experience. An evolving seasonal menu means there will always be new and surprising additions to delight customers.” While celebrating the essence of traditional Chinese gastronomy, Chef Jereme has made bold refinements that give it a modern and global dimension.

“My diverse background allows me to look at Chinese cuisine from a broader perspective. I am constantly bringing new things into the kitchen with the belief that I can better present traditional dishes, giving them a new twist,” he added.

A premium dining experience where contemporary chic meets timeless elegance, Jiang Nan by Jereme Leung is perfect for both special occasions and everyday meals. Designed around signature dishes specially created by Chef Jereme, the menu features classic Jiangnan cooking methods and specialities updated on a seasonal basis. The region’s rich climate offers a bounty of seasonal produce, crafted by time-honoured techniques to create outstanding cuisine. In addition to classic fare from the region, authenticity is further provided by the restaurant’s chefs, who are mainly Jiangnan natives.

An example of Chef Jereme’s ingenuity at Jiang Nan is the reimagining of traditional Jiangnan dishes to provide a Macao connection. ‘Fortune chicken’ is based on classic dish ‘Beggar’s chicken’, and resembles a gold ingot that is ceremonially cracked open at the table before serving. ‘Mahjong full house – Shanghai’s White Rabbit creamy candy’ consists of colourful mahjong tiles identical to the real thing in every way except they are created using the popular White Rabbit candy many will remember from their childhoods.

More traditional dishes are enhanced to deliver a superior taste and presentation experience. Chef Jereme’s take on boneless yellow croaker fish is to fill them with Suzhou-style crab paste and crab roe and smaller yellow croaker fish rather than the traditional broth with large fish, both enriching the flavour and aroma and giving diners an element of delightful surprise. Other signature dishes include ‘eight treasures’ braised duck, lotus-shaped fish dumplings in supreme consommé and drunken crab in Shao Xing Hua Diao wine.

Jiang Nan also offers special touches and details to guarantee a perfect meal. A beverage trolley serves daily specials directly to the table, while steaming hot rice is also provided as table service like a home meal to enhance the taste of dishes.

Diners will appreciate Jiang Nan’s striking interior design, based on the Shanghai Art Deco movement of the 1920s and 1930s. Shikumen brickwork enhances the sense of space that artfully conveys both homeliness and Chinese style luxury, with sophisticated elements informed by bespoke furniture, lighting and artwork. A playful theme references birdcages throughout the restaurant, while the modern chinaware, custom-made by Hong Kong designer Monica Tsang, features bird motifs.

Jiang Nan by Jereme Leung
Opening Hours: Daily 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.
Location: Shop 1078, Level 1, The Venetian Macao

Sands Dining
Bringing the world to your plate, one dish at a time, Sands Dining highlights the diversity, quality, ingredients, chefs, creativity and ambience at Sands® Resorts Macao’s more than 150 restaurants. Offering a world of diverse cuisine prepared by some of the most innovative and skilled chefs, Sands Resorts Macao presents unique dining experiences at each of its distinctive restaurants and outlets. From authentic Chinese delicacies to Macanese favourites and global cuisine from France, Italy, Japan, India, Southeast Asia and more, there’s something special for every palate.

About The Venetian Macao
Opened in 2007, The Venetian® Macao is Macao’s first integrated resort featuring stunning replicas of the famous canals and architectural icons of Venice, Italy. The Venetian Macao features 3,000 suites, 1.2 million square feet (111,000 square metres) of convention and meeting facilities as well as a 15,000-seat Cotai Arena designed for world-class sports events and electrifying entertainment. The Venetian Macao is also home to the unique, 1,800-seat luxury Venetian Theatre, hosting the best in international and Chinese entertainment; more than 30 renowned restaurants; the incredibly fun QUBE indoor playground and more than 350 retailers at Shoppes at Venetian. Outdoor recreation areas include swimming pools and cabanas and a mini-golf course.

Tianmu Mountain, Hangzhou, China, January 2, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, represented in China by Dusit Fudu Hotels and Resorts, has signed a hotel management agreement with Zhejiang Dahua Group to operate Dusit Thani Tianmu Mountain, Hangzhou, a luxury resort in an area of outstanding natural beauty in Lin’an County within Hangzhou, one of the most prosperous cities in China.

Offering a welcome escape from city life for business and leisure travellers alike, the resort will comprise 160 spacious villas and guest rooms on the outskirts of the Tianmu Mountain National Nature Reserve – a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its ancient towering trees, verdant valleys and mountain peaks, pleasant weather year-round, and the chance to spot rare and protected species such as clouded leopards and black muntjac.

Easy to reach by car, the stunning location is only an hour’s drive from Hangzhou city centre. Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport can be reached in 90 minutes, and the new high-speed rail station, which links with Shanghai, is just a 20-minute drive from the property.

Alongside Dusit International’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality, the resort promises to deliver personalised stay experience by integrating with the best of the destination.

Resort facilities will include an all-day dining restaurant, a Chinese restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, hot mineral pools, a gymnasium, the deluxe Namm Spa, and two ballrooms with ad-joining function rooms.

Besides immersing themselves in nature with guided hikes of Tianmu Mountain and other memorable outdoor activities, guests will have a unique opportunity to learn about local culture and environmental sustainability by joining exclusive arts and crafts workshops at the Tianmu Mountain Nature Centre. Tianmu Mountain’s rich history as the source of the finest ceramic glazed teacups, which dates back to the Tang Dynasty, will also be celebrated at the resort with a showcase of handcrafted pottery from local kilns, which guests can also visit.

“We are honoured and delighted to continue our sustainable expansion in China by bringing our unique brand of Thai-inspired, gracious hospitality to the beautiful hills of Tianmu Mountain,” said Ms Suphajee Suthumpun, Group CEO, Dusit International. “Serving as a world-class retreat for business and leisure travellers alike, Dusit Thani Tianmu Mountain, Hangzhou has all the elements in place to deliver the memorable experiences our guests and customers deserve while uniquely linking them with nature. We look forward to shaping the resort into a must-visit destination that offers a luxurious gateway to this magnificent area while bringing enduring value to all stakeholders.”

Mr Chen Yu Hai, President of Zhejiang Dahua Group, said, “Dusit International’s commitment to sustainable operations, genuine care for its communities, and exceptional customer experience matches perfectly with our vision for this very special project. Under Dusit’s management, we are confident Dusit Thani Tianmu Mountain, Hangzhou will be a resounding success, and we look forward to a long and prosperous relationship together.”

Dusit International’s portfolio now includes more than 300 properties operating under six brands across 16 countries. In China, the company currently operates 10 hotels and has more than 20 properties in the pipeline.

About Dusit International
Established in 1948, Dusit International or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT) is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: hotels and resorts, hospitality education, food, property development, and hospitality-related services.

The group’s portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes more than 300 properties operating under a total of six brands (Dusit Thani, Dusit Devarana, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 16 countries worldwide. The group also operates culinary schools and hospitality colleges in Thailand, plus catering companies for the education sector in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Dusit International’s diversified investments in real estate development, hospitality-related services, and the food sector are part of its long-term strategy for sustainable growth, which focuses on three key areas: balance, expansion and diversification.

About Zhejiang Dahua Group
Zhejiang Dahua Group is a group enterprise comprising real estate development, construction, energy investment, education, tourism development, decoration, and building materials. Through its subsidiary Zhejiang Tianmu Mountain Tourism Construction Development Co., Ltd., the group is committed to re-source protection, tourism development, and management of the Tianmu Mountain Scenic Area. Since it was established, the subsidiary has completed several major projects in the area, including expanding Chanyuan Temple, building the Zhiliao Hotel and Ceramic Museum, and improving local infrastructure by constructing new mountain roads. It has also founded the Dadizhiye Nature School to raise awareness about the environment and arrange various green activities. Through its innovative and pioneering projects, Zhejiang Dahua Group hopes to set an inspiring new standard for what private enterprises can achieve in the Tianmu Mountain Scenic Area, bringing enduring value to all stakeholders while contributing to the destination’s sustainable development.

Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, January 1, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) announces the next PATA Annual Summit will be held live and in-person from March 22 – 25, 2022 in Ras Al Khaimah, the northern most Emirate in the United Arab Emirates.

The event will be the first time that the not-for-profit travel trade association, which serves government, tourism offices, hotels, airlines and other travel-related companies with interests in the Asia Pacific region, will host its Annual Summit in West Asia. Hosted by Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), the four-day event will lead a global forum on sustainable growth and the value and quality of tourism today, bringing together international thought leaders, industry shapers and senior decision-makers who are invested in driving tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region.

Comprising of a conference elements, experiential networking sessions, the PATA Executive Board and Board Meeting, and Annual General Meeting, the four-day Summit will be hosted in various locations across the Emirate, including the Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert and Al Hamra International Exhibition & Conference Center. Exploring the theme ‘Reconnecting the World’, the program will provide a platform for PATA’s public and private sector members and partners to convene on critical industry topics, including destination recovery strategies, sustainability and resilience, human capital development and innovation.

Additionally, PATA delegates will visit Expo 2020 to gain insight on the sustainability, innovation and design best practices around the world, including PATA Destination Members’ pavilions.

“We are honoured to be working with Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority in bringing together our industry network to discuss opportunities and best practices to enable recovery and sustainable growth,” said PATA CEO Liz Ortiguera. “Next year’s event programme, under the theme ‘Reconnecting the World’, will take on a format that is more experiential, will maximize in-person connections and engage an appreciation for this beautiful destination plus the unique opportunity to experience Expo 2020. I invite all of our members, partners, Chapter members and industry colleagues to join us for this long-awaited opportunity.”

Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, added “We are delighted to host the Pacific Asia Travel Association Summit for the first time in 2022. We look forward to productive talks and insights from industry leaders on critical topics shaping the industry today. As we continue to navigate through an ever-changing tourism landscape, it is even more critical to facilitate these important discussions and share key learnings. Being selected as the host destination is a testament to our destination recovery and resilience, sustainable initiatives and experience in hosting world-class events.”

Considered as the fastest growing destination in the Middle East, Ras Al Khaimah set a global benchmark by being the first city in the world to be certified safe by the ‘SafeGuard Label’ from Bureau Veritas and the ‘Safe Travels Stamp’ from the World Travel and Tourism Council. It was also named the ‘Gulf Tourism Capital’ for both 2020 and 2021 by the Gulf Cooperation Council.

With over 7,000 years of fascinating history, traditions and culture, Ras Al Khaimah promises an authentic and easily accessible Arabian experience. A haven of year-round sunshine, the Emirate features pristine beaches, lush mangroves and terracotta dunes, as well as fertile, green oases and the dramatic, awe-inspiring vistas of the majestic Hajjar mountains. From cultural escapes to eco-tourism and adrenaline-fueled adventures to beach retreats, Ras Al Khaimah caters to a full suite of travellers. The unique natural beauty of the Emirate, combined with its world-class tourism infrastructure and portfolio of global hospitality brands, makes it the perfect destination for both leisure and adventure travel as well as for business travellers.

About PATA
Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research and innovative events to its more than 650 member organisations, including 82 government, state and city tourism bodies, 14 international airlines and airports, 71 hospitality organisations and 75 educational institutions, as well as thousands of young tourism professional (YTP) members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 32 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 28 PATA Student Chapters globally. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has official offices or representation in Beijing and London.

About Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA)
The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) was established in May 2011 under the government of Ras Al Khaimah. RAKTDA aims to develop the Emirate’s tourism infrastructure and establish Ras Al Khaimah as a world-class destination for leisure and business travel, creating sustainable investment opportunities and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. In order to achieve its goals, the Authority has a government mandate to license, regulate and monitor the Emirate’s tourism and hospitality industry.

Kyoto, Japan, January 3, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / At the newly opened Shinmonzen Hotel heritage and contemporary creativity stand in playful contrast throughout the hotel in Kyoto’s historic Gion district. Despite its external appearance, it was built from scratch, designed by world renowned Tadao Ando, and dreamt up by hotelier Paddy McKillen as a little sister of Villa La Coste in France.

Kyoto’s new hidden gem is exclusively located in the beautifully preserved Gion Shirakawa and Shinmonzen Street. The Shinmonzen; a luxury boutique hotel designed by one of the world’s most celebrated contemporary architects – Tadao Ando with cosmopolitan interiors by Remi Tessier and other artist friends. The project has been a labour of love for over 10 years and has been designed for the modern travellers with a deep inspiration of an experience from a traditional Japanese Inn, Ryokan.

Kyoto’s new hidden gem is eponymous of ‘Shinmonzen Dori’ – known as The Street of the Artists, Fine Arts and Antique shops; a neighbourhood rich in arts, historical heritage and cultural legacy. Joining this artistic community and Japan’s cultural capital is The Shinmonzen; a luxury boutique hotel exclusively located in the beautifully preserved Gion Shirakawa and Shinmonzen Street.

The project has been a labour of love for over 10 years and has been designed by one of the world’s most celebrated contemporary architects – Tadao Ando with cosmopolitan interiors by Remi Tessier and other artist friends for the modern travellers.

For Tadao Ando, the starting point of the hotel, constructed on the site of a former parking lot, was balancing an exterior sensitive to its Kyoto surroundings with an interior evoking a sense of Europe. We were obliged to create a wooden façade and Japanese roof tiles known as kawara and we tried to design the outside in a traditional Japanese style, but a completely different new modern world can be found inside.

The Shinmonzen provides a highly personalized experience with Japanese Omotenashi as the core combined with the refined epicureanism shaped by our sister property Villa La Coste in Provence, creating ever-lasting memories of your trip.

Serengeti, Tanzania, December 28, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Dunia Camp in the Serengeti, Tanzania, is an all-female-run safari camp run Tanzanian women. They have traded a traditional life, leaving their homes for months at a time to work in the dangerous bush, be independent, support their families, and provide an exceptional experience for guests.

Dunia, in Tanzania’s central Serengeti, is well placed for wildlife spotting. During the annual Great Migration, guests can watch giant herds of wildebeest moving through the area right from camp.

The safari comes right to Dunia, with the migrating wildebeest herds regularly passing the camp. Outside of the migration, there’s plenty more opportunity for wildlife spotting, too. During downtime, sink into a leather armchair with a cold drink in the open-sided dining tent and scan the sun-bleached plains for movement or get lost in a great book before retiring to your tent for an afternoon snooze.

Asilia was built by passionate people with deep roots in East Africa’s original family-run safari companies: Rekero Camp in 1986 and Oliver’s Camp in 1992. In 2004, they combined their experience, family spirit and commitment to East Africa and formed Asilia. Together, they sought to offer safari experiences paired with conservation efforts that bring meaningful change to the region. Today, we are a fast-growing, leading safari operator, employing nearly 1,000 people in 19 bespoke camps and lodges in Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Zurich, Switzerland, December 24, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / ASMALLWORLD AG will acquire a 10% stake in the parent company of Global Hotel Alliance, the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands with over 800 hotels, and will join the company’s Board of Directors. This strategic investment opens up new revenue streams and is expected to significantly expand ASMALLWORLD’s earning potential over the next few years. ASMALLWORLD will support GHA in the delivery of its recently re-launched loyalty programme GHA DISCOVERY, which will expand to more than 20 million members in 2022. The loyalty programme’s highest spending elite members will receive complimentary access to the ASMALLWORLD social network which should double the size of the social network by the end of 2022. In addition, ASMALLWORLD will receive the right to recruit independent hotels to join the GHA hotel portfolio under a newly created ASMALLWORLD soft brand.

• Discover the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at Top25Hotels.com

ASMALLWORLD and GHA are expanding their long-standing collaboration in the form of a strategic partnership. ASMALLWORLD will support GHA with the delivery of its relaunched hotel loyalty programme GHA DISCOVERY. As part of the partnership, GHA DISCOVERY will offer its elite tier members (those customers who have earned the highest membership levels), access to the ASMALLWORLD social network free of charge. This will allow GHA DISCOVERY elite members to enjoy all the benefits of the ASMALLWORLD travel and lifestyle network, which is expected to increase customer engagement, ultimately leading to more hotel bookings for the alliance’s hotels. Under the terms of the partnership, both parties are incentivised to grow each other’s revenue base. ASMALLWORLD expects that the new customers from this partnership will double the member base in 2022.

GHA DISCOVERY – a hotel loyalty programme with 20 million customers

When NH Hotel Group is integrated into the alliance in 2022, GHA will be a network of 40 independent hotel chains with over 800 hotels in 100 countries, sharing a common loyalty platform. GHA DISCOVERY’s hotels include internationally renowned luxury brands such as Kempinski, Anantara, Corinthia, Pan Pacific, Capella and Nikki Beach. GHA DISCOVERY is the world’s largest loyalty programme for independent hotel brands. When NH Hotels Group merges its NH Rewards loyalty programme into GHA DISCOVERY in mid-2022, then GHA DISCOVERY will have more than 20 million members.

The GHA DISCOVERY programme allows members to collect and spend rewards across the entire GHA hotel network. Based on the number of stays, nights or spend per year, members may also obtain one of multiple status levels, which offer additional hotel benefits such as room upgrades and faster earning of rewards.

Initially, ASMALLWORLD will provide access to its services for GHA DISCOVERY’s elite tier members and support GHA with the delivery of the programme. The companies will also offer additional ASMALLWORLD products and services to the entire GHA DISCOVERY customer base.

ASMALLWORLD to be added as a hotel brand to the GHA DISCOVERY brand portfolio

In addition to the core partnership, the companies will also work together to expand GHA’s hotel portfolio. As part of the agreement, ASMALLWORLD has received the mandate to recruit independent hotels for GHA, and the brand “ASMALLWORLD” will be added to GHA DISCOVERY’s hotel brand portfolio as a soft brand. Going forward, newly-recruited independent hotels can then join GHA’s hotel network under the ASMALLWORLD brand.

Until now, GHA mostly did not offer independent individual hotels a path to join its network as it primarily served hotel chains. The cooperation with ASMALLWORLD closes this gap, and provides an opportunity for independent individual hotels to join the network.

ASMALLWORLD acquires a 10% stake in GHA Holdings

To highlight the strategic aspect of this long-term cooperation, the two companies have entered an agreement under which ASMALLWORLD has committed to acquire a 10% stake in GHA Holdings Limited (“GHA Holdings”), the group holding company of GHA. The purchase price for the stake is USD 3.5 million in cash plus a 3% share of ASMALLWORLD AG. The ASMALLWORLD shares used for payment will be either existing or newly created shares. As the purchase price is being paid partly in shares, GHA will also become a shareholder of ASMALLWORLD AG. The closing of the transaction is scheduled for March 2022.

Transaction opens up significant new revenue streams for ASMALLWORLD

The enhanced partnership and strategic investment open up multiple new revenue streams for ASMALLWORLD. Most importantly, the company will be rewarded on spend generated by members signing up through the partnership. In addition, ASMALLWORLD will have the opportunity to sell additional products and services to this valuable customer group, once they become part of the ASMALLWORLD social network. GHA and ASMALLWORLD also plan to offer various ASMALLLWORLD products to the more than 20 million non-elite GHA DISCOVERY members which will create additional sales from GHA’s large member base. Together with these new revenue streams, and its stake in the future growth of GHA, this investment is expected to significantly expand ASMALLWORLD’s earning potential over the next few years and further accelerate its profitable growth.

ASMALLWORLD will have a seat on GHA’s Board of Directors

It is anticipated that both companies will be represented on each other’s Boards of Directors. ASMALLWORLD CEO Jan Luescher will become a member of GHA Holdings’ Board of Directors, while GHA CEO Chris Hartley is expected to join ASMALLWORLD’s Board of Directors. This will allow both companies to influence each other’s strategic directions and will help build further operational synergies between the companies. The appointment of Chris Hartley as a member of the Board of Directors is subject to the approval of the shareholders of ASMALLWORLD.

“This strategic alliance between ASMALLWORLD and GHA opens up new opportunities for both companies. GHA can now offer its most valued customers direct access to the ASMALLWORLD network and ASMALLWORLD will be able to offer its core products to members of the GHA DISCOVERY programme, and in particular their highest-spending elite tier members. We will also help GHA to drive incremental sales through these customers. GHA will also offer ASMALLWORLD’s services to the entire GHA DISCOVERY’s 20-million-strong membership base, which will greatly increase our reach and sales potential,” comments Jan Luescher, CEO of ASMALLWORLD.

GHA’s CEO, Chris Hartley, added “our long-standing partnership with ASMALLWORLD has been very successful and has highlighted the close synergies between our customer bases and the attractiveness of the complementary products and services, which bring value to each other’s membership propositions. ASMALLWORLD members who have previously joined GHA DISCOVERY have gone on to become some of our highest-spending customers across our hotels. It feels like a natural next step in this partnership to become shareholders in each other’s businesses; and we will benefit from ASMALLWORLD’s insights and experience in areas such as social networking and events, which are a logical extension to our GHA DISCOVERY programme.”

• Discover the World’s Best Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Hotel Awards at Top25Hotels.com

About Global Hotel Alliance (GHA)
Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) brings together a unique collection of independent hospitality brands with GHA DISCOVERY, a multi-brand loyalty programme leveraging a shared technology platform. Through membership in GHA, brands expand their global reach, drive incremental revenue, and reduce dependence on third-party channels, all while maintaining management independence and individual positioning. GHA represents a collection of 35 brands with over 500 hotels in 85 countries serving 11 million members. The award-winning GHA DISCOVERY programme generates approximately $2 billion in revenue and more than eight million room nights annually. GHA’s brands currently include Anantara, Araiya, Avani, Campbell Gray, Capella, Corinthia, Discovery Destinations, Divani, Doyle, Elewana, Fauchon, GLO, JA Resorts, Kempinski, Leela, Lungarno, Marco Polo, Mysk, Niccolo, Nikki Beach, NUO, Oaks, Outrigger, Pan Pacific, PARKROYAL COLLECTION, PARKROYAL, Patina, The Residence by Cenizaro, Shaza, Sukhothai, Sun International, Tivoli, Ultratravel Collection and Viceroy.

About GHA DISCOVERY
Launched in 2010, GHA DISCOVERY is the world’s largest loyalty programme for independent hotel brands, featuring more than 500 hotels, resorts and palaces across 35 brands. Members enjoy VIP recognition, thoughtful benefits and generous rewards at home or away. Recently the programme has evolved to include an additional tier and flexible paths to upgrade through nights/stays, eligible purchases or number of brands stayed, making it easier and faster for members to reach elite status. Unlike more traditional programmes, GHA DISCOVERY does not ask members to count points towards their next upgrade. Instead, members earn and spend DISCOVERY Dollars (D$), an exclusive rewards currency. They also enjoy members-only Experiences curated by each hotel and have access to properties close to home, without a stay, through member-only Local Offers.

The ASMALLWORLD Group
ASMALLWORLD is the world’s leading travel & lifestyle community, focusing on experiences: the modern-day definition of luxury. Centred around the ASMALLWORLD social network, the company operates a digital travel & lifestyle ecosystem which enables and inspires members to travel better, experience more and make new connections.

Members of the ASMALLWORLD social network connect through its app and website, where they can meet other members, engage in online discussions, receive travel and lifestyle inspiration, and enjoy a wealth of travel privileges. Members also meet in person at over 1’000 global ASMALLWORLD events every year, ranging from casual get-togethers in major cities around the world, access to exclusive launches, shows, galas, soirees, exhibitions, major global sporting events, and larger flagship weekend experiences hosted in iconic destinations such as Saint-Tropez and Gstaad.

Other businesses of the ASMALLWORLD travel & lifestyle ecosystem include:

ASMALLWORLD Collection, a high-end online hotel booking engine focused on the world’s most admired hotels, offering the unique “ASMALLWORLD Preferred Rate” which allows customer to enjoy exclusive travel benefits at no extra cost

ASMALLWORLD Private, a high-end travel agency offering personalised travel curation service

ASW Hospitality, a hotel management company that operates and manages the iconic North Is-land resort in the Seychelles

First Class & More, a subscription-based smart luxury travel service that allows members to enjoy luxury travel at insider prices

The World’s Finest Clubs, the world’s leading nightlife concierge offers its members VIP access to the most exclusive nightlife venues around the world

Beijing, China, December 27, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / If key measures are followed, the number of those employed in the sector could eclipse pre-pandemic levels. New research from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) reveals the recovery of China’s Travel & Tourism sector has soared ahead of many major tourism markets such as France and the U.S., and ahead of the global recovery.

Before the pandemic struck, China’s Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to the nation’s GDP represented CNY 11.5 trillion (11.6% of the total economy).

In 2020, when the pandemic brought international travel to a grinding halt, China’s Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to the national economy fell by almost 60%, representing a decrease of CNY 6.9 trillion.

However, according to the research, and based on the current rate of recovery, the sector’s contribution to the country’s GDP could see a year on year increase of 60.7% this year.

This growth is almost twice the global average of 30.7% and represents an annual increase of nearly CNY 2.8 trillion.

The data also reveals Travel & Tourism’s contribution to the country’s economy could see a further year on year rise next year of 40.4%, representing an increase of nearly CNY 3 trillion.

Domestic spend is expected to grow by 75% by the end of this year and experience a further year on year rise of more than a third (35.9%) in 2022.

However, while international spend, which is critical to the sector’s recovery, is set to grow by just 7.2% in 2021, next year, when China’s border is expected to reopen to major source markets around the world, it could significantly outpace domestic spend with a rise of 94.3%.

After a loss of more than 16 million jobs last year, when Travel & Tourism businesses in China and around the world suffered catastrophic losses due to severe travel restrictions and complete border closures, employment growth is set to rise by a minimal 3.6% in 2021.

However, employment growth could experience a more positive increase next year of 17.7%, reaching more than 80 million jobs in 2022, just 1.9% below pre-pandemic levels.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Our research clearly shows that while the global Travel & Tourism sector is beginning to recover, China’s recovery is faster.”

“Last year, the COVID-19 pandemic saw 16 million jobs lost from China’s Travel & Tourism sector. But the predicted rise in both international and domestic spend next year brings a positive outlook for both jobs and GDP.”

According to the research, the sector’s contribution to the country’s GDP and the rise in jobs could be more positive this year and next, if five vital measures are met by governments around the world.

These measures include allowing fully vaccinated travellers to move freely, irrespective of their origin or eventual destination.

Secondly, the implementation of digital solutions which enable all travellers to easily prove their COVID status, in turn speeding up the process at borders around the world.

Thirdly, for safe international travel to fully restart, governments must recognise for all vaccines authorised by WHO.

Fourthly, continued support of the COVAX/UNICEF initiative to ensure equitable distribution of vaccines around the world.

Finally, the continued implementation of enhanced health and safety protocols, which will underpin customer confidence.

The future could be even brighter for China’s Travel & Tourism sector

If these vital measures are followed before the end of 2021, research shows the impact on the economy and jobs across China could be considerable.

The sector’s contribution to GDP could rise by 71.3% (nearly CNY 3.3 trillion) by the end of this year, and a further year on year rise of 43.3% (CNY 3.4 trillion) in 2022.

Domestic spend could increase by 85.2% this year, followed by a 37.9% growth in 2022.

International spend could rise 23.6% in 2021 and could experience a substantial year on year boost of 103.2% next year.

Employment could see a 10.5% rise this year, and a year on year increase of 20.1% in 2022, which would see the number of those employed in the sector eclipse pre-pandemic levels by more than 5.5 million.

Malaga, Spain, December 24, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The announcement of the Sustainable Tourism Awards winners edition has taken place during the virtual Annual General Assembly of Skål International.

The Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards, launched in 2002, are geared towards enhancing the visibility and grant recognition to entities from the Travel and Tourism industry.

Our appreciation goes to Biosphere Tourism and the Responsible Tourism Institute for their continuous cooperation in the frame of these Awards for third consecutive year. This year, they have exceptionally granted two Skål Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle Special Awards instead of one.

WINNERS OF THE 2021 SKÅL INTERNATIONAL

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM AWARDS
– COMMUNITY AND GOVERNMENT PROJECTS: Servicios Ecoturísticos El Jorullo, Mexico.
– COUNTRYSIDE AND BIODIVERSITY: Chai Lai Orchid, Thailand.
– EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMES AND MEDIA: Tourism Industry Aotearoa, New Zealand.
– MAJOR TOURIST ATTRACTIONS: The Cape Town International Convention Centre, South Africa.
– MARINE AND COASTAL: Six Senses Laamu, The Maldives.
– RURAL ACCOMMODATION: Sardegna Grand Hotel Terme, Italy.
– TOUR OPERATORS AND TRAVEL AGENTS: City Sightseeing, South Africa.
– URBAN ACCOMMODATION: The Grand Hotel, Sri Lanka.

WINNERS OF THE 2021 SKÅL BIOSPHERE SUSTAINABLE LIFESTYLE SPECIAL AWARDS
– The Cape Town International Convention Centre, South Africa.
– Chai Lai Orchid, Thailand.

The independent jury has been made up by three prominent and distinguished personalities who have acted in representation of internationally recognized entities. They have evaluated the 50 entries received based on leadership criteria in sustainability that encompass tangible, measurable benefits to the environment, enhance business, and the society and communities in which they operate. (View the full participants list here).

Skål International would like to thank all the entities presented to these awards for their participation, as well as give sincere congratulations to all the winners in this edition which is being held in a year of challenges, in which the fight for the restoration of Tourism at a global level must be the priority of all of us who are part of the industry.

About Skål International
Skål International is the world’s largest global network of Tourism Professionals promoting Tourism, Business, and Friendship worldwide since 1934. Its members are Directors and Executives of the Tourism sector who relate to each other to address common interest issues, improve a business network, and promote destinations. For more information about Skål International and membership, please visit skal.org.

About Biosphere Tourism: Biosphere Tourism develops certifications to guarantee compliance with the principles of sustainability and continuous improvement, through a private, voluntary and independent certification system. This certification guarantees an adequate long-term balance between the economic, socio-cultural and environmental dimensions of a destination, reporting significant benefits for the entity itself, society and the environment. Biosphere Sustainable presents a methodology and digital platform suitable for more than 27 different types of business.