Category: Latest Travel News

Madrid, Spain, December 2, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Member States of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) have strongly aligned themselves behind its leadership and vision for the sector. Coming together for the 24th General Assembly in Madrid, Spain, Members from every global region approved the Organization’s Programme of Work and endorsed key initiatives designed to build a more a resilient, inclusive and sustainable tourism.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

The General Assembly has brought together more than 1,000 delegates from 135 countries, including 84 Ministers of Tourism as well as business leaders, destinations and representatives of key international organizations. Opening the General Assembly, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili cited the spirit of solidarity and determination that has defined tourism’s response to an unprecedented crisis. In presenting his Report to Members, he made clear how a focus on collaboration and harmonization of protocols, political advocacy and securing financial support for tourism, have help the sector mitigate the impacts of the pandemic and laid the foundations for tourism’s restart in many parts of the country.

UN and International Community Backing

We must make the most of this opportunity – to transform goodwill into concrete support

Mr Pololikashvili said: “In every global region, the pandemic has made clear the importance of our sector – for economic growth, for jobs and trade, and for protecting natural and cultural heritage. We must make the most of this opportunity – to transform goodwill into concrete support.”

Emphasizing the significance of the General Assembly, as well as UNWTO’s elevated stature within the global agenda, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed delegates and called for them to work together for a “green, inclusive, sustainable” future. Mr Guterres added: “I commend UNWTO and Secretary-General Pololikashvili and hope the decisions taken at the General Assembly will help restore trust in travel and get the world moving safely do developing economies can reap the benefits of sustainable tourism.”

The United Nations Secretary-Generals words of support were echoed by the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, by Rebeca Greenspan, Secretary-General, United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), by Juan Carlos Salazar Gómez, Secretary-General of the International Civil Aviation Organization, and by Vice-President of the European Commission Margaritis Schinas.

Alongside receiving an updated on UNWTO’s activities since the last General Assembly two years ago, Members also benefited from a comprehensive overview of the latest tourism trends, as indicated by UNWTO’s latest data, as well as an updated overview of restrictions on travel worldwide. From the floor of the Assembly, Members from different global regions expressed their solidarity with countries impacted by the continued imposition of travel restrictions. Also in Madrid, Member States voted in person to approve the UNWTO Executive Council’s nomination of Mr Pololikashvili to serve as Secretary-General for a second term. On the back of the strongly favorable vote, Mr Pololikashvili will lead UNWTO from 2022 to 2025.

UNWTO Again Welcomes Royal Approval

On the eve of the General Assembly, His Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain praised UNWTO’s “outstanding work” leading global tourism, most notably over the past 18 months during the worst crisis in the sector’s history. At a special Royal Gala Dinner, His Majesty also emphasized the importance of tourism for economies and societies, both in Spain and globally, making the sector’s recovery essential for many millions of people.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

Bangkok, Thailand, December 2, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Lotus Car Thailand, the importer and distributor of the hardcore racing British sports cars, under the management of Wearnes Automotive Thailand, is ready to thrill the Thai automotive market with the brand every true sports car lover craves – Lotus. The last Elise and Exige models will be on show for the first time at “The 38th Thailand International Motor Expo 2021” from December 1-12, 2021, at Lotus Booth B07, Challenger Hall 1-3, Impact Muang Thong Thani.

The return of Lotus Cars in Thailand has shifted the premium sports car market up a gear with the first-time unveiling the Lotus Elise & Exige at the Motor Expo 2021.

• Wearnes Automotive Thailand, the sole official importer and distributor of Lotus in Thailand ready to reveal their driver-to-driver strategy for the Thai market.
• Come and experience the Lotus Exige Sport 350 and Lotus Elise Sport 220, only 6 cars available in Thailand at the “The 38th Thailand International Motor Expo 2021”.
• Open for bookings for the first exclusive premium sports car, Lotus Emira V6 First Edition, on December 1-12, 2021, Lotus booth B07, Impact Muang Thong Thani.

Lotus is the pinnacle of race inspired sports cars, delivering excellent performance and innovative lightweight construction and the unmistakable body design that makes this brand stand out from the crowd. Attendees at Motor Expo 2021 will be the first to see the exhilarating Exige Sport 350 and Elise Sport 220 models, two prime examples of one of the world’s best sports car. Also, the breathtaking Lotus Emira V6 First Edition will be available for booking at the event, the all-new Lotus sports car has recorded unexpected sales number around the world. All Lotus cars will receive a 3-year parts warranty with unlimited mileage and 24-hour emergency Roadside Assistance Service for 3-year. The Lotus brand has also revealed its 5-year strategy towards becoming a fully electric car brand to ensure the future of the cleaner energy. Lotus customers will still be able to experience the sheer thrill of owning and driving a Lotus in a new era.

Mr.Teeraphong Rodloy, Country Manager of Wearnes Thailand said “Wearnes Automotive Thailand, as the sole official dealer and after-sales service provider for Lotus cars in Thailand, is launching a comprehensive business plan and after-sales service with the standard of excellence expected of Lotus Cars. We’ll be reenergizing the Thai sports car market with our Driver-to-Driver strategy showcasing the ultimate innovation, performance, lightweight construction that makes the Lotus brand a one-of-a-kind race inspired sports car. The brand has a unique racing heritage, being a 7-time F1 champion that has held the hearts of fans around the world for over 73 years.”

“The relaunch of the brand at this year’s Motor Expo is the first time in 6 years that Lotus Car Thailand has brought new cars to showcase to Thai sports car lovers. Visitors will find the Lotus Exige Sport 350 and Lotus Elise Sport 220, two legendary sports cars, the last 6 cars to be unveiled for the Thai market. This will also be an opportunity for eager buyers to customize the new Lotus Emira V6 First Edition, a new breed of premium sports car that has generated high booking numbers and demand around the world, only 6 cars are available for exclusive bookings with a starting price of 11.9 million baht.”

LOTUS ELISE SPORT 220, The ultimate performance and innovative chassis.
Presenting the outstanding features of the complete Elise family, combining driving performance that balances power, agility, and pure design form. The innovative aluminium chassis weighs only 68 kg, with an advanced aerodynamic design that creates balanced downforce throughout the car. It also reduces wind resistance and increases stability even at high speeds.

The Elise Sport 220 is powered by a 1.8-litre Supercharged Four-cylinder engine that delivers 217 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds with a low emission rate of only 173. g/km. All Elise series cars also come with the four-corner Double Wishbone Suspension and Lotus Dynamic Performance Management (Lotus DPM), exclusive to Lotus, allowing the driver to opt to turn it on when driving in everyday life for a relaxing ride or turn it off when they want to merge with the car while accelerating in the spirit of a sports car.

Elise Sport 220, the last 3 cars available, with a price of 5,390,000 baht

LOTUS EXIGE SPORT 350 combines extreme performance and elegance in one.
Created to be the ultimate lightweight premium sports car with a high horsepower-to-weight ratio combined with the ultimate torque of the 3.5-litre Supercharged V6 engine plus a rear wing and diffuser to increase downforce and stability when accelerating. The result is the thrill of soaring with pulse-racing power and fast response performance, taking the driver experience beyond anyone’s wildest imagination.

The Exige Sport 350 is the first Lotus car to feature a lightweight aluminium manual gearbox that offers elegant gear changes which are faster and more accurate, making every ride more memorable, and the lightweight exhaust system delivers the full-bodied sound of a V6 engine.

Exige Sport 350, only 3 cars available, with a price of 9,290,000 baht

LOTUS EMIRA V6 FIRST EDITION
The last generation of a combustion sports car legend that collectors around the world must not miss. The Lotus Emira will be the last combustion engine produced by Lotus at the Hethel plant in the UK before the brand switches to producing 100% electric cars in the future. The eye-catching design of this beautifully shaped sports car retains the Lotus car DNA that emphasizes driving experience as stated with the brand’s slogan – “For The Drivers”.

Lotus Emira First Edition V6 Supercharged 3.5L engine delivers 400 horsepower, maximum torque of 430 Nm, acceleration 0-100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds and a maximum speed of 288 km/h.

The Lotus Emira V6 First Edition is open for booking, limited to only 6 cars, starting at 11,900,000 baht.

The Elise and Exige series are the bread and butter of the Lotus brand, their racing-like characteristic and driving performance have made them synonymous all over the world when it comes to what a true sports car should be. However, Lotus has announced the end of production for these two models in 2021, making the Elise and Exige series “THE LAST OF THEIR KIND” guaranteeing they’ll be a must-have collectible among discerning sports car enthusiasts.

Lotus reveals its strategy for the next 5 years to become a fully electric vehicle brand
Lotus is accelerating innovations in producing exciting lifestyle models for the global market. With 4 new electric vehicles in the next 5 years to fully penetrate the premium car market, including

• Type 132 E-Segment SUV
• Type 133 E-Segment 4-Door Coupe
• Type 134 D-Segment SUV
• Type 135 Sport Coupe

“Lotus is investing in opening a new LOTUS TECHNOLOGY HQ in China, including electric car factories in China for distribution around the world. The next-generation Lotus, which will be launched in 2023, will be the brand’s first SUV and will be a 100% electric vehicle under the codename [Type132] for the premium car market. Another advantage of electric vehicles is the tax is less than that of a combustion engine car. Lotus’ electric vehicles will be assembled at a new factory in China and as a result, the import duty is 0%, thus lowering the selling price which will surely attract a large group of consumers,” added Mr.Teeraphong Rodloy.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, December 2, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Alain St.Ange, the Seychelles former Minister responsible for Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports & Marine will be in Dubai next week to be part of the hi-level forum with the topic ‘Ocean Sustainability in ASEAN’ during the occasion of ‘ASEAN Day’ at Dubai Expo 2020.

Former Minister St.Ange was invited to join the panel and to share his experiences on eco-marine tourism development as an integral part of the blue economy for the conservation and benefit of coastal and island societies.

ASEAN Day will be celebrated at Dubai Expo 2020 will be held on 10th December 2021 from 2.30 to 5.00 pm (Dubai GMT+3)

Former Minister St.Ange is the Executive Director of FORSEAA ‘Forum of Small Medium Economy AFRICA ASEAN’ and will join Indonesian Ministers and a number of high profile experts and speakers.

“Through this high-level forum, the ASEAN Block of Countries are looking forward to share, the common outlook on the use and preservation of the ocean resources towards the sustainable development of tourism, economy & investment and marine conservation for the livelihoods of its coastal societies” said the H.E. Mr Dato Lim Jock Hoi, Secretary General ASEAN (Association Of Southeast Asian Nations).

Alain St.Ange who runs Saint Ange Tourism Consultancy spent months in Indonesia earlier this year to be better connected with the tourism development of Indonesia and to explore areas of cooperation with Africa. “I am proud and indeed I am very honoured to have been invited to be a speaker at this special high-level gathering of experts. As I will fly the Seychelles flag, I will also have the unique opportunity of learning from others as I share my own experiences to those present” said Alain St.Ange

Bangkok, December 1, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The festive season is fast approaching with Christmas and New Year just around the corner, which means it’s time to gather together and feast on delicious food. Meat & Livestock Australia, together with 7 Top Thailand Chefs, have launched “The Great Steak Escape” campaign to offer hungry culinary adventurers the opportunity to indulge in the unforgettable flavours and pure natural goodness of Australian beef at home. It’s a chance to cook up the taste of down under with the help of easy-to-follow secret recipes, prepared by some of the best beef loving Chefs in Thailand. It’s the perfect way to treat your family and friends to mouth-watering and fun festival-style dishes that will leave them all wanting the celebrations to never end.

1. Flat Iron Steak
No matter whether you are throwing a fancy black-tie affair or a small family dinner, Flat Iron Steaks is the recommended beef cut for home cooking from Chef Pam – Pichaya Utharntharm, owner of SMOKED restaurant, it’s quick and easy to prepare and super delicious. Flat Iron Steak, also known as oyster blade steak, is the cut from the shoulder of the cow that takes centre stage in this delicious yet super simple recipe, this cut is extremely tender, well-marbled, and flavorful making it great for grilling. Just add fresh thyme, garlic, pepper, and olive oil. You can enjoy it with your significant other or a group of family and friends, it’s guaranteed to please everyone.

2. Black Pepper Steak with Green Pepper Corn Sauce by Chef Art
Black Pepper Steak with Green Pepper Corn Sauce is a great dish suitable for any casual dining party. Chef Art – Supamongkon Supapipat, the first chef to bring the chef table experience to Thailand, shares his secret green peppercorn sauce to delight beef lovers, he believes that no steak is complete without a delicious green peppercorn sauce. Chef Art uses Australian Beef tenderloin, which is the most tender cut of beef, and it is located within the loin and combines it with his sauce made of shallots, green peppercorns, butter, cognac, beef broth, cornstarch, crushed peppercorns, and heavy cream which all come together to create the yummiest sauce.

3. Fat Beef Fried Rice with Australian Wagyu Striploin Steak
To create a simple dinner for a special family occasion you can’t go wrong with this easy homemade classic combination of Fat Beef Fried Rice with Australian Wagyu Striploin Steak which is the signature dish at Flat Marble restaurant. Chef Aum – Peechaya Sukviboon, Flat Marble’s owner, uses Australian Wagyu striploin which is a well-marbled boneless cut of beef from the hindquarter of the cow, near the tenderloin, this tasty fried rice recipe combines soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and salt and pepper for seasoning. You can be sure that all your family will be impressed with your homemade dish and will be asking for more.

4. Tenderloin Truffle
This elegant Australian Tenderloin dish is topped with truffle, making it the perfect indulgence for a special occasion or celebration. It may take some time to prepare all the ingredients, but it is well worth waiting for. This cut is naturally tender and buttery, it’s sure to impress your dinner companions and yourself. Chef Eak – Apichit Puangkajorn, the head chef of Sexy Cow Prime Steak & Seafood, has adjusted the recipe for easy home cooking by beef lovers by using just 9 ingredients to make this superb restaurant-quality dish, they are Australian tenderloin, parma ham, black truffle, truffle oil, cream, salt, black pepper, salted butter, fresh sage.

5. Fried Rice Beef Kebab Turkish Style
Australian Beef adds even more flavour to this easy Turkish fried rice dish – a timeless culinary classic. The cooking method brings together an assortment of spices and herbs such as onion, garlic, ground black pepper, salt, oregano, thyme, paprika peppers and olive oil with the tasty Australian tenderloin unleashing a sweet aroma that compliments every flavourful bite. This delicious dish is the highlight of Fat Lamb Mediterranean Halal Restaurant, owned by Chef Yakup, the winner of Iron Chef, it is so easy to prepare and cooks in about 45 minutes, making it perfect for a cozy dining experience at home.

6. Sando Australian Rib-Eye
Take your taste buds to Japan and Australia at the same time with the hearty flavours of this nourishing Sando Australian Ribeye from Mad Beef with a shortcut recipe from Chef Cher Attakanwong, the owner of MAD BEEF restaurant. Delicious and filling, this Japanese–inspired sandwich is assembled by cutting the crusts off the bread, spreading Sukiyaki Mayo sauce on the tender juicy ribeye steak, which is cut from the rib section of the cattle with the bones and outer ligaments cut away. This cut has a unique soft texture that is different from other beef cuts, it has deep marbling, lots of flavour, and every bite is deliciously tender.

7. Panang Curry Striploin Beef
If you love Thai food, you must not miss this dish for your New Year celebrations from “Market Café by Khao”, an authentic Thai restaurant in partnership with the Michelin-starred ‘Khao restaurant’ located at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit. Panang Curry Striploin Beef is a red Thai curry that is thick, salty and sweet, with a zesty makrut lime flavour and captivating aromatic chili paste that perfectly compliment the tender and juicy grilled Australian striploin. This dish is a celebration of flavours, making it the perfect meal to mark the end of the year.

Secret Top Chef tip for the perfect grilled steak is to rest the beef after cooking, this will help keep the juices locked in. Resting meat after cooking is essential for tender, juicy results every time, it allows the beef cut to reabsorb and distribute the juices that have been constricted during the cooking process. If you were to cut a beef right off the grill, you’ll notice that the internal juices immediately run out of it, leaving you with a dry and tough final product. So, remember to be like a Top Chef…rest first, then enjoy.

About Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA)
Meat & Livestock Australia Limited (MLA) is the marketing, research and development body for Australia’s red meat and livestock industry. It is a not-for-profit organisation owned by cattle, sheep and goat producers. MLA uses the True Aussie Beef and Lamb brand, to promote Australian red meat in export markets (Internationally), representing Australian beef, veal, lamb, and goat to showcase the value of these products while sharing the True Aussie Beef and Lamb story.

Valletta, Malta, December 1, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / SUNx Malta and Les Roches, together with Earth Charter International recently announced the winners of the inaugural Strong Earth Awards which were presented at the ShiftIn’ Festival at Les Roches and broadcast to a global audience.

The awards were launched at the Strong Earth Youth Summit in April for students focussed on a future advancing Climate Friendly Travel – low carbon: SDG linked: Paris 1.5. Seven awards of 500 Euro each, donated by Les Roches, were given for the best 500-word “thought paper” on:

“Why the Earth Charter is even more important now than when it was introduced by Maurice Strong and Michael Gorbachev in 2000”

The winners were selected from students around the world, predominantly from developing countries, and the calibre of entries was extremely high. The competition has been designed to draw attention to the important sustainability messages contained in the Earth Charter, as well as the vision of the late Maurice Strong and its increasing relevance in today’s Climate challenged world.

The seven winners are:
Mbugua Kibe, Clintone Ojina, Osman F. Yong, Daniela Castro, Seyed Samir Rezvani, Ngoni Shereni, Caroline Kimani.

Professor Geoffrey Lipman, President SUNx Malta said:
“We are delighted to once again be partnering with our friends and colleagues at Les Roches on the ShiftIn’ Festival and to present awards to the winners of the first Strong Earth Awards together with Earth Charter International in Costa Rica. The standard of entries was extremely high, and the winners all articulated the relevance of the Principles of the Earth Charter in the context of today’s existential Climate Crisis. This is an event which we will continue annually to honour the Earth Charter and the vision of Maurice Strong for a better, fairer, more inclusive sustainable world.”

Mirian Vilela, Exec Director, Earth Charter International said:
“I want to express my appreciation for the organizers, as well as the participants of this event and project. I trust the launch of the Strong Earth Awards will spark interest and imagination amongst youth to work collaboratively and apply the principles of the Earth Charter in their journey and efforts to put our world on a sustainable path! The Earth Charter which was first launched in 2000 can serve as an ethical compass for decision making and as an educational instrument that could guide humanity to a more sustainable and a peaceful world.”

Joceline Favre-Bulle, Director of Operations, Les Roches said:
Riding on the wave of COP 26, ShiftIn’ 2021 could not have been timelier! This 3rd edition of ShiftIn’ attracted over 700 global attendees & 27 of the world’s top experts in environmental & sustainability matters! However, without the knowledge, support, guidance, and good humour of the SUNx Malta team, this would not have been possible; we are honoured to be part of such a precious partnership; thank you.

A heartfelt congratulations to the 26 students who took part in the inaugural Strong Earth Awards; well done, all the submissions were exceptional! Moreover, compliments go to the seven prize winners whose papers were recognizably outstanding; it was an honour to read all the papers.

At Les Roches, we are already looking forward to the 2022 edition of both the Strong Earth Awards and ShiftIn; watch this space.

About SUNx Malta
SUNx is an EU based, not-for-profit organisation, established as a legacy for Maurice Strong, climate and sustainability pioneer and partnered with the government of Malta. SUNx Malta created the ‘Green & Clean, Climate Friendly Travel System’ which is designed to help Travel & Tourism companies and communities transform to the new Climate Economy. The programme is based on reducing carbon, meeting Sustainable Development Goals, and matching the Paris 1.5C trajectory. It is action and education focused – supporting today’s companies and communities to deliver on their climate ambitions and encouraging tomorrow’s young leaders to prepare for rewarding careers across the travel sector. Its co-founder and President is Professor Geoffrey Lipman.

SUNx Malta is calling for a DASH-2-Zero for the influential Travel & Tourism sector. Pushing for further action faster. Yes, to Net Zero Carbon, but by 2030 and a commitment to NO Greenhouse gases by 2050. DASH means Declare & Act with Support & Hope. SUNx Malta is training 100,000 young Strong Climate Champions across all UN States by 2030. Together with our Sustainable Development Goal (SDG-17) partners we are offering a UNFCCC linked Registry of Accelerated Ambition and support for Climate Friendly companies and communities.

About Les Roches
Three international campuses, more than a hundred nationalities studying with us… when we say “Global Hospitality Education” we really mean it. Whether you’re looking for undergraduate or graduate programs, Les Roches serves up academic rigor with a twist of innovation and entrepreneurship. Our campuses are uniquely compact and caring environments, while our commitment to Swiss-style, hands-on learning and small class sizes means you’ll make the most of every minute of your study time.

Madrid, Spain, December 1, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Tourism leaders from every global region have arrived in Madrid for the 24th Session of the UNWTO General Assembly. Ministers of Tourism will be joined by representatives of international organizations and from across the private sector for the first truly global tourism meeting to be held since the start of the pandemic, with innovation, education and investments high on the agenda.

In all, more than 1,000 participants, representing 135 countries and including 84 Ministers and Vice-Ministers of Tourism will attend the most important meeting of the United Nations specialized agency for tourism.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Guided by UNWTO, global tourism is facing up to the challenges of today while looking to the opportunities of tomorrow. The UNWTO General Assembly shows the sector’s determination to restart, lead recovery and be a central pillar of sustainable development and climate action.”

Towards an International Code for the Protection of Tourists

The UNWTO General Assembly shows the sector’s determination to restart, lead recovery and be a central pillar of sustainable development and climate action

UNWTO opened the General Assembly with an Induction Session for the International Code for the Protection of Tourists. Launched in response to the drop in consumer confidence caused by the pandemic, the landmark legal code will provide minimum standards and consumer rights for tourists in emergency situations. It was developed in collaboration with 98 Member States and Associate Members as well as 5 non-member States international organizations and leading private sector stakeholders. Once adopted by the UNWTO General Assembly, the Code will be presented to the United Nations General Assembly in 2022 with the aim of making it a Resolution.

Affiliate Members Meet to Reform and Restart

Held within the framework of the General Assembly, UNWTO’s Affiliate Members met today for their 43rd annual Plenary Session. Made up of businesses and destinations, as well as representatives from civil society and academic, UNWTO counts on more than 500 Affiliates to transform tourism policy into action. In Madrid, participants were given an overview of UNWTO’s crisis response, with the Destination Tracker developed by in partnership with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) presented as an example of effective public-private partnerships. At the same time, delegates approved the proposed Reform of the Legal Framework for UNWTO Affiliate Membership, paving the way for more effective collaboration

Executive Council Endorses Key Initiatives

Ahead of the official opening of the General Assembly, UNWTO convened its Executive Council for a 114th session. The Council, which serves as the governing board of UNWTO, met to hear Secretary-General Pololikashvili present his report on the work done since the 113th session, also held in Madrid at the start of the year. The Members of the Executive Council agreed to the iimplementation of the General Programme of Work for 2020-2021 and for 2022-2023. Members also endorsed several key UNWTO initiatives, notably the UNWTO Recommendations on Tourism for Rural Development, the Best Tourism Villages project and the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative.

Also meeting in Madrid, the UNWTO Committees on Tourism and Sustainability, on Tourism and Competitiveness and on Tourism Online Education, brought together experts to explore ways to advance the Organization’s Programme of work around key priority areas.

Cairo, Egypt, November 29, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Accor, a world-leading hospitality group with more than 400 hotels across India, the Middle East, Africa and Turkey is expanding its footprint in Egypt with the opening of Movenpick Living and Residences in Cairo. Once open the property will feature 150 serviced apartments and 40 branded residences.

The Group is partnering with Al Bourouj Misr Development, which operations started in 2012, with a visionary approach towards strategically responding to the diverse and evolving real estate market in Egypt, by offering a sustainable and diverse mix within a real estate portfolio comprised of construction and real estate developments of mixed-use contemporary, residential and commercial developments through its subsidiaries.

“It is with great pride that we announce the inking of a partnership with Movenpick for one of the foremost iconic real estate projects by our company” mentioned Mohamed Assy, Vice Chairman of Al Bourouj Misr Development. “Our collaboration with Accor is a continuation to the company’s commitment of working hand in hand with reputed international brands to redefine the lifestyle of the new capital. We are confident that Sixty iconic tower with its modern and outstanding architectural design will be the first choice for those seeking uniqueness and tranquility in a next generation focal point of the business and financial district that is set to be Egypt’s most sought business and lifestyle destination.”

The new Movenpick Living & Residences will be located in the New Capital City (NCC), Egypt, which features hospitality, residential, entertainment, commercial, retail components and government entities, including the presidential palace, parliament, cabinet, Supreme Court, all ministries of Egypt and various foreign embassies.

“This is a very exciting project for Accor in Egypt”, says Mark Willis CEO of Accor India, Turkey, Middle East, and Africa. “This new addition will be introducing a unique offering to the New Capital City of Cairo, providing residents and travellers with a new home with the luxury of hotel services!”

In addition to the rooms, the property will feature four Food & Beverage outlets, including a Movenpick Lounge, a speciality restaurant and Pool Bar as well as a fitness centre, a spa and a Little Bird’s Club.

The NCC is located 45 kilometers east of Cairo, in an area approximately half the size of the seaport of Suez. A new intercity metro link will be built to connect NCC to Cairo via New Cairo. In addition, an international airport will be constructed and located in NCC.

Accor currently operates 34 properties (9,399 keys) in Egypt with 29 properties (9,561 keys) in the pipeline.

Madrid, Spain, November 29, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / After a weak first half of 2021, international tourism rebounded during the Northern Hemisphere summer season, boosting results for the third quarter of the year, especially in Europe.

According to the newest edition of the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, international tourist arrivals (overnight visitors) increased by 58% in July-September 2021 compared to the same period of 2020. However, they remained 64% below 2019 levels. Europe recorded the best relative performance in the third quarter, with international arrivals 53% down on the same three-month period of 2019. In August and September arrivals were at -63% compared to 2019, the best monthly results since the start of the pandemic.

Between January and September 2021, worldwide international tourist arrivals stood at -20% compared to 2020, a clear improvement over the first six months of the year (-54%). In some sub regions – Southern and Mediterranean Europe, the Caribbean, North and Central America – arrivals actually rose above 2020 levels in the first nine months of 2021. Some islands in the Caribbean and South Asia, together with a few small destinations in Southern and Mediterranean Europe saw their best performance in Q3 2021 according to available data, with arrivals coming close to, or sometimes exceeding pre-pandemic levels.

We cannot let our guard down and need to continue our efforts to ensure equal access to vaccinations, coordinate travel procedures, make use of digital vaccination certificates to facilitate mobility and continue to support the sector

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Data for the third quarter of 2021 is encouraging. However, arrivals are still 76% below pre-pandemic levels and results across the different global regions remain uneven.” In light of the rising cases and the emergence of new variants, he added that “we cannot let our guard down and need to continue our efforts to ensure equal access to vaccinations, coordinate travel procedures, make use of digital vaccination certificates to facilitate mobility and continue to support the sector.”

The uplift in demand was driven by increased traveler confidence amid rapid progress on vaccinations and the easing of entry restrictions in many destinations. In Europe, the EU Digital Covid Certificate has helped facilitate free movement within the European Union, releasing significant pent-up demand after many months of restricted travel. Arrivals in January-September 2021 were only 8% below the same period of 2020 yet still 69% below 2019. The Americas recorded the strongest inbound results in January-September, with arrivals up 1% compared to 2020 but still 65% below 2019 levels. The Caribbean recorded the strongest results by subregion with arrivals up 55% compared to the same period in 2020, though still 38% below 2019.

Despite the improvement seen in the third quarter of the year, the pace of recovery remains slow and uneven across world regions. This is due to varying degrees of mobility restrictions, vaccination rates and traveler confidence. While Europe (-53%) and the Americas (-60%) enjoyed a relative improvement during the third quarter of 2021, arrivals in Asia and the Pacific were down 95% compared to 2019 as many destinations remained closed to non-essential travel. Africa and the Middle East recorded 74% and 81% drops respectively in the third quarter compared to 2019. Among the larger destinations, Croatia (-19%), Mexico (-20%) and Turkey (-35%) posted the best results in July-September 2021, according to information currently available.

Gradual improvement in receipts and expenditure

Data on international tourism receipts show a similar improvement in Q3 of 2021. Mexico recorded the same earnings as in 2019, while Turkey (-20%), France (-27%) and Germany (-37%) posted comparatively smaller declines from earlier in the year. In outbound travel, results were also moderately better, with France and Germany reporting -28% and -33% respectively in international tourism expenditure during the third quarter.

On the upside, tourism spending per trip has increased significantly due to large savings and pent-up demand, softening the blow to economies. International receipts rose from an average of US$ 1,000 per arrival in 2019 to US$ 1,300 in 2020 and could exceed US$ 1,500 in 2021. However, higher spending is also the result of longer stays, rising transport and accommodation prices.

Looking ahead

Despite recent improvements, uneven vaccination rates around the world and new Covid-19 strains could impact the already slow and fragile recovery. The economic strain caused by the pandemic could also weigh on travel demand, aggravated by the recent spike in oil prices and disruption of supply chains. According to the latest UNWTO data, international tourist arrivals are expected to remain 70% to 75% below 2019 levels in 2021, a similar decline as in 2020.

Revenues from international tourism could reach US$ 700-800 billion in 2021, a small improvement from 2020 but less than half the US$ 1.7 trillion recorded in 2019. The economic contribution of tourism is estimated at US$ 1.9 trillion in 2021 (measured in tourism direct gross domestic product) well below the pre-pandemic value of US$ 3.5 trillion.

The safe resumption of international tourism will continue to depend largely on a coordinated response among countries in terms of travel restrictions, harmonized safety and hygiene protocols and effective communication to help restore consumer confidence. This is particularly critical at a moment when cases are surging in some regions and new Covid-19 variants are emerging in different parts of the world.

London, United Kingdom, November 30, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / International spending expected to rise 94% in 2022. Travelers headed to secondary destinations and booking ‘the great outdoors’ in 2021. Eight out of 10 travelers will choose sustainable travel. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Trip Group have launched ‘Trending in Travel’, a new report that shows the latest trends traveler behavior and future booking patterns in the wake of COVID-19.

WTTC, representing the global Travel & Tourism sector, joined forces with leading global travel service provider, Trip Group, and its major consumer brands Trip, Ctrip and Skyscanner, to analyse consumer trends shaping the recovery of the Travel & Tourism sector.

WTTC’s latest projections show strong growth in international spending for 2022 and beyond, projected to overtake domestic spending in 2022, as more destinations ease restrictions and vaccination rates continue to rise.

Following a 69.4% decline (2020), global international spending on travel is set to rise by 9.3% in 2021, and significantly by 93.8% in 2022.

The report also reveals how severe and confusing travel restrictions around the world drove a significant rise in domestic tourism, with a surge in domestic hotel bookings of more than 200% on Trip’s platform this year compared to 2019.

Since the start of the pandemic, mobility restrictions have hindered international travel and, although domestic travel will provide a much-needed boost to the sector, WTTC says the return of international travel is critical to rebooting the global economy.

The report focuses on booking trends, consumer considerations, and consumer profiles. It also features examples of markets whose resilience has provided a platform for the recovery of the Travel & Tourism sector.

The report shows how COVID-19 has changed the way people travel; younger travellers are the first to return to travel; increased demand for longer stays; the importance of fee-free cancellations and the demand for high levels of health and safety checks.

To avoid travel restrictions, travelers are seeking secondary destinations, away from traditional holiday spots, as their destination of choice. This preference positively impacts local communities and livelihoods. According to Trip’s hotel booking data, Abu Dhabi (UAE) Chiang Mai (Thailand), Doha (Qatar), Florence (Italy), and Frankfurt (Germany) were the most popular secondary destinations in their respective countries in 2021.

The report goes on to show that, according to Ctrip data, bookings for ‘the great outdoors’ will predominate in the short and medium term. In China – one of the world’s largest travel markets – nature-related attraction bookings have increased by 265% in the first half of this year compared to the same period last year.

The pause in travel has also heightened consumers’ eagerness to travel more sustainably with more than eight out of 10 (83%) global travelers saying they would make sustainable travel a priority in the future.

Reinforcing this long-term trend, since its launch in 2019, the report shows 68 million travellers have opted to book a “Greener Choice” labelled flight on Skyscanner, a comparatively lower-carbon flight choice.

According to the report, 70% of travelers in many major countries such as the U.S., Spain, the UK, Canada, and Japan plan to spend more on travel in 2022 than they have in the last five years, including 2019 – one of the best years on record for Travel & Tourism.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “It is clear people are really looking forward to traveling again. Consumers are curious, they are looking at new destinations, ‘the great outdoors’ and travel that benefits the places and people they visit. As travel and tourism represents over 10% of global GDP this is good news for jobs and economies. The impact in some countries has been devastating for local communities and this report shows that business is returning in earnest.”

Jane Sun, CEO of Trip Group, said: “Travelers around the world have shown their eagerness to travel, whether limited to domestic travel or able to cross borders, we see a huge amount of pent-up demand steadily being released.

“To better evolve with the recovery we must understand travelers, and as an industry adapt to emerging trends.”

Latest WTTC research shows the global recovery of the Travel & Tourism sector is picking up pace with the sector’s contribution to global GDP projected to rise by 30.7% in 2021 and 31.7% in 2022.

Male, Maldives, November 30, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Created in partnership with Accor and Wai Eco World Developer, this exclusive 80-villa beach resort will become the third property at Crossroads Maldives, the Indian Ocean’s first and only multi-island integrated lifestyle and leisure complex. S Hotels and Resorts Public Company Limited, the flagship hospitality arm of Thailand’s Singha Estate PCL, has celebrated the official launch of SO/ Maldives, with a ground-breaking ceremony for this vibrant new beachfront resort on the third island of Crossroads Maldives, the Indian Ocean’s first fully-integrated leisure and lifestyle destination.

This important milestone was marked with an event attended by senior representatives from S Hotels & Resorts. Set to be opened in 2023, this exciting new project is being created by S Hotels & Resorts, Wai Eco World Developer (WEWD), the leading business and real estate conglomerate in Myanmar, in partnership with Accor, whose luxurious and rebellious SO/ Hotels & Resorts brand will be introduced to the Maldives for the very first time.

SO/ Maldives will offer a unique collection of beachfront and over-water villas crafted by renowned designers, as well as an audacious array of dining and entertainment offerings. Nestled on its own island overlooking the azure Emboodhoo Lagoon, the resort is set to become a hotspot for adventurous and free-spirited socialisers who can easily jet in from regional centres for a weekend or longer, thanks to its convenient location close to Malé’s Velana International Airport.

The private island of SO/ Maldives will become a playground for those seeking unconventional yet stylish spaces to eat, drink, work or kick back and relax. The speciality restaurant will serve up Levantine cuisine exuding the aromatic fragrances and flavours of an Arabian night, with panoramic views across the ocean from its location above the arrival pavilion. Over at the poolside, guests will discover an art deco-inspired beach club with serious Miami South Beach vibes and an innovative plant-based menu. The vivid colour scheme is set to make it one of the coolest places to hang out in the archipelago, and is sure to impress those attending the brand’s pool parties – a popular event at SO/ addresses across the world.

The resort has ousted the traditional all-day buffet concept and will introduce a central cooking suite with various culinary theatre concepts. A chef’s table will be discreetly tucked away for those seeking an exclusive dining experience, while outdoor areas will be blessed with warm and fresh Maldivian air. The pan-Asian design will feature neutral terracotta palettes, elevated with accents of polished brass and rattan. Unforgettable events can be brought to life at the oceanfront wedding venue and meeting spaces.

The globe-trotting guests at SO/ Maldives will also be able to take advantage of the world-class facilities at Crossroads Maldives. The Marina @ Crossroads is an 800-metre beach walk lined with cool cafés, refined restaurants, a chilled-out beach club, upmarket boutiques, a spa, the Marine Discovery Centre and a 30-berth yacht marina. Just 15 minutes by speedboat from the international airport, this breath-taking integrated resort has redefined tourism and hospitality in the Maldives since it launched in 2019.

“This is a momentous day as we officially launch SO/ Maldives, the latest jewel in the Maldivian tourism crown. With SO/ Hotels & Resorts, Accor has created one of the hotel industry’s most expressive and individual luxury brands, catering to style-conscious travellers in some of the world’s most sought-after destinations. This makes it a great fit for Crossroads Maldives, our game-changing multi-island leisure complex. SO/ Maldives will complement our two other five-star resorts and further raise the standard of hospitality in this idyllic archipelago,” said Dirk De Cuyper, Chief Executive Officer, S Hotels & Resorts.

“It gives us great pleasure to join hands with S Hotels & Resorts and Accor as we break ground on such a prestigious project. Crossroads Maldives is one of the most significant developments in the history of the country – and the entire Indian Ocean region – so we are honoured to have been tasked with the wonderful transformation of its third island. SO/ Maldives will attract trend-setters from all around the world and I look forward to bringing this remarkable resort to life in the coming months,” added Zaw Win Maung, Managing Director, WEWD.

Chadi Farhat, Brand Chief Operating Officer at Ennismore said: “We are delighted to see development kick-off for the audacious SO/ Maldives, a resort which will be the place to see and be seen for travellers that live vibrant lives and are seeking something truly avant-garde on their journeys around the world. We look forward to seeing this high-energy resort come to life and working alongside S Hotels & Resorts and WEWD.”

SO/ Maldives will become the third accommodation option at Crossroads Maldives, joining SAii Lagoon Maldives and Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, both of which were recently named as the “Best Luxury Beachfront Resorts” in the Maldives at the Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2021.