Category: Latest Travel News

Hua Hin, Thailand, July 20, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Dusit International has expanded its operations in the kingdom with the opening of dusitD2 Hua Hin, an upscale pet-friendly retreat in the heart of Hua Hin, a popular seaside destination just three hours by car from Bangkok. With a wide range of modern facilities and state-of-the-art air filtration systems, the new hotel offers a comfortable, convenient and safe escape for families and groups of friends in the heart of the popular seaside town, just 200km south of Bangkok.

Located just a seven-minute walk from Hua Hin’s main beach and near popular local attractions such as Cicada Market and Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, the new hotel is designed to offer a modern and comfortable haven where families and groups of friends can recharge, relax, and easily discover everything the destination has to offer, with space to bring their pets with them.

Alongside 152 contemporary guest rooms and suites ranging in size from 30 to 92 sq m, including selected rooms equipped with pet-friendly amenities for up to two pets, the bright and airy property offers a wide range of facilities for work, rest and play.

Current dining facilities include Cafe Soi, an all-day dining restaurant where guests can take a culinary journey to Southern Thailand and indulge in traditional delicacies from Surat Thani, Phuket, Songkhla, Krabi and beyond; Som Bar, a vibrant rooftop bar inspired by Hollywood party pads where guests can enjoy cocktails and admire panoramic sea views; and Dusit Gourmet, Dusit’s signature bakery and coffee shop, where guests can indulge in a variety of Thai and international favourites, all made using high-quality ingredients.

Alongside a rooftop infinity pool, a large garden, and a fully equipped gym, the hotel also offers an extensive kids club, The Beary Club, featuring a children’s swimming pool, a play area with a sandbox and a treehouse, and a wide range of activities for children ages 3 to 15. Bag painting, tree planting, cooking classes, and treasure hunts led by friendly mascot ‘Beary’ – a unique ‘half bear, half hog deer’ character specially designed to raise awareness of endangered animals in the region – are just some of the fun activities offered. All children are given a Beary Map on arrival with the chance to win an ice cream by collecting stamps throughout the property.

All room types, from the airy Deluxe to the spacious Two-Bedroom Suite, feature the latest in connectivity, with high-speed internet access and 55” 4K UHD Smart TVs for easy streaming of entertainment. Each room and public area is also equipped with a Panasonic Nanoe™ X machine, which filters the air to eliminate odours and inhibit the activity of airborne bacteria and pet-derived allergens.

Guests seeking to stay on top of work during their travels will find plenty of quiet, thoughtfully designed corners to focus on their important tasks. The versatile and well-equipped Dok Jok function room is also available for up to 76 people in a theatre-style arrangement, or 37 people in a classroom set-up, ensuring ample space for safe and memorable gatherings.

Alongside Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality, all guests also benefit from Dusit’s carefully crafted ‘Dusit Care’ services. Designed to offer ultimate peace of mind, these go beyond enhanced hygiene protocols to deliver additional convenience, experience and value while maximising guest safety. Flexible check-in, anytime breakfast, and mobile payment methods are just some of the services offered.

dusitD2 Hua Hin, which officially opens on 16 July 2021, is Dusit’s third hotel in Hua Hin. The renowned Dusit Thani Hua Hin, a deluxe beachside resort, has been operating in the destination for 30 years. Dusit also recently began managing Seapine Recreation Centre, next to Suanson beach. Dusit International’s property portfolio now comprises more than 300 properties, across six brands, in 17 countries worldwide.

“We are delighted to open dusitD2 in Hua Hin and expand our market reach to delight a whole new segment of travellers in this popular seaside destination,” said Ms Suphajee Suthumpun, Group CEO, Dusit International. “Complementing perfectly the full-service offerings of our long-standing Dusit Thani Hua Hin resort, dusitD2 Hua Hin is ideally positioned to meet the needs of the large drive-to-leisure market from Bangkok. From modern Thai-inspired design and our distinctive gracious hospitality, to pet-friendly rooms, extensive lifestyle facilities, and a great location near popular shopping areas and the main beach, the hotel has all the ingredients for a highly memorable stay. Ultimately, dusitD2 Hua Hin offers excellent value for young families, groups of friends, and even those looking for a comfortable and convenient base to work from anywhere. And all guests can rest assured that, with Dusit, their well-being and safety will always come first.”

To mark its opening, dusitD2 Hua Hin is now offering The Journey has Begun package featuring accommodation in a Deluxe room, breakfast for two adults, an extra bed for children under 18 years old, and 20% food and beverage discount at Cafe Soi and Som Bar.

Available for booking from 16 July 2021 for stay dates through 31 August 2021, the package starts at THB 2,499 net per night. Guests who book to stay two consecutive nights will also receive a southern set dinner for two at Cafe Soi.

About Dusit International
Established in 1948, Dusit International is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Building on its two core areas of business – Hotels & Resorts and Hospitality Education – the company has expanded its operations over the past four years to comprise five business units. The additional units include Foods, Property Development, and Hospitality-Related Services. Today, the company’s property portfolio comprises more than 300 distinctive hotels, resorts and luxury villas operating under six brands across 17 countries worldwide, as well as two leading hospitality colleges with campuses in Thailand and the Philippines. Following a three-pronged strategy for sustainable growth, including balance, expansion and diversification, the company has recently expanded into food production, on-demand hospitality services, and property development to reach new markets and add further recurring streams of revenue to the company.

Geneva, Switzerland, July 19, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is inviting nominations for the 2021 Diversity and Inclusion Awards.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has not stopped the aviation industry’s agenda on diversity and inclusion. In fact, it has been an opportunity to redouble our efforts to improve our performance. Improving our gender balance, in particular, is a top priority as seen by the growing number of signatories to the IATA 25by2025 pledge. The second edition of the IATA Diversity and Inclusion Awards will once again highlight exceptional work in this area. Along with honoring those leading change, the awards aim to inspire even greater urgency in driving the changes needed to strengthen aviation with a commitment to diversity and inclusion at the industry’s highest levels of leadership,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

The Awards recognize three categories of Diversity and Inclusion leadership:

• Inspirational Role Model Award: Recognizes a woman holding a senior position within the air transport industry who has had a significant impact on the aviation agenda through her strong contribution to business delivery, as well as her ongoing support of the diversity and inclusion agenda. Nominees are welcome from across the aviation industry.
• High Flyer Award: Recognizes a young female aviation professional under the age of 40 who has demonstrated leadership through concrete action in favor of diversity and inclusion, making a positive impact on the industry. Open to all female professionals in the aviation industry.
• Diversity & Inclusion Team Award: Recognizes an airline that has seen measurable change in diversity and inclusion as a result of the work it has been doing in this area. Open to all IATA member airlines.

The winners of each category will receive $25,000 in prize money sponsored by Qatar Airways payable to the awardee or their nominated charity working on diversity and inclusion projects.

“As an industry, we embrace diversity that reflects the nations and continents we serve, but we must continue to demonstrate leadership and identify greater opportunities to broaden the inclusive nature of aviation, ensuring that we benefit from an engaged workforce that feels valued and appreciated. We believe that supporting greater diversity and gender balance across the global aviation industry is a vital element for future success which is why we are supporting the IATA Diversity and Inclusion awards again this year,” said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive H.E. Mr. Akbar Al Baker.

The 2021 nominations will be evaluated by an independent panel consisting of the 2019 recipients of the IATA Diversity and Inclusion Awards: Christine Ourmières-Widener, CEO of TAP Air Portugal; Fadimatou Noutchemo Simo, Founder and President of the Young African Aviation Professional Association; and Christina Kennedy, General Manager People – Operations and Employee Experience at Air New Zealand. The judging panel will be chaired by Karen Walker, Editor-in-Chief of Air Transport World.

The deadline for submitting nominations is 29 August 2021 at 18:00 CET. Full details for nominations can be found on the IATA website.

The winners of the 2021 IATA Diversity & Inclusion Awards will be announced at IATA’s 77th Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit to be held in Boston, USA (3-5 October 2021).

The IATA Diversity and Inclusion Awards were launched in 2019 to recognize and celebrate the efforts to promote a more diverse and inclusive aviation industry. These annual awards were suspended in 2020 due to the outbreak of COVID-19.

Emboodhoo Lagoon, Maldives, July 19, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / S Hotels and Resorts Public Company Limited continues to expand its footprint in the Maldives and redefine the tourism and hospitality industry in this idyllic Indian Ocean archipelago with the signing of a hotel management agreement to introduce SO/ Hotels & Resorts, Accor’s rebellious luxury lifestyle brand. The project will be owned by an equal joint venture with Wai Eco World Developer Pte. Ltd, a leading business and real estate conglomerate.

• Discover the Maldives with VisitMaldives.org, the Sunny Paradise Islands, by Travelindex, go to VisitMaldives.org

SO/ Maldives will showcase a selection of 80 spectacular villas, including beachfront and over-water options, all adorned with designer interiors and an audacious twist. Nestled on its own exclusive island overlooking the azure Emboodhoo Lagoon, just 15 minutes by speedboat from Malé’s Velana International Airport, this eclectic resort will bring a fresh sense of avant-garde style and sophistication to the Maldives, while also reflecting the local spirit of this captivating country.

Opening in 2023, the new resort will take centre stage on the third island of CROSSROADS Maldives, the first extraordinary integrated leisure destination in the exotic South Malé Atoll, connecting it to a wealth of world-class attractions and facilities.

Vivid, vivacious and full of personality, SO/ Hotels & Resorts are only found in socially vibrant destinations such as Berlin, Bangkok, St Petersburg and Singapore. One of the fastest-growing brands in Accor’s lifestyle portfolio, it is designed for savvy travellers who have a passion for fashion and like to keep their finger on the pulse. Every stay is underpinned by the brand’s signature ‘Just Say SO’ service, to craft truly unforgettable experiences.

This makes SO/ the perfect fit for CROSSROADS Maldives, which was recognised as the “Best Leisure Development Maldives (Five-Star)” in the Asia Pacific Property Awards 2021-2022. The presence of such a dynamic player on the global hotel scene will play a key role in helping CROSSROADS Maldives to expand and reach new markets worldwide, thanks to Accor’s global distribution and loyalty network offering access to a wide variety of rewards, services, and experiences to over 68 million members.

SO/ Maldives will feature a collection of 80 luxurious villas, including beachfront and over-water options
Guests will be able to unwind on SO/ Maldives’ private island or take advantage of fantastic facilities at The Marina @ CROSSROADS, an 800-metre lifestyle area and beach walk where visitors can discover cool cafés, refined restaurants, a chic beach club, upmarket boutiques, a spa, the Marine Discovery Centre and a 30-berth yacht marina. Unforgettable events can be hosted at the oceanfront wedding venue and meeting space.

SO/ Maldives will become the third resort at CROSSROADS Maldives, joining SAii Lagoon Maldives, an original and inspiring retreat for millennially-minded travellers, and Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, the iconic music-themed brand’s first Maldivian property. SO/’s clientele are outgoing fashionistas and international party-goers who will be drawn to the designer villas, live DJ scene and Balearic vibe. Together, these three outstanding retreats will cater for all types of travellers, from adventure-seeking couples and honeymooners to free-spirited families and groups of friends.

“We are so excited to unveil SO/ Maldives as the latest jewel in CROSSROADS Maldives’ crown, as we continue to transform the tourism landscape in this highly-desirable destination. With its signature sense of style and commitment to creating unique guest journeys, SO/ is the ideal fit for our third island. It will stand out from the crowd, complement our two other industry-leading brands and complete our collection of luxury and lifestyle resorts, further raising the bar for hospitality in the Maldives,” said Dirk De Cuyper, Chief Executive Officer, S Hotels & Resorts.

“It gives me great pleasure to announce the arrival of SO/ Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives. This playful and distinctive lifestyle brand can only be found in the world’s most iconic destinations, so it is the perfect fit for this renowned island paradise. The resort’s location within CROSSROADS Maldives will allow guests to experience a truly vibrant lifestyle offering with plenty of options for both relaxation and adventure. SO/ Maldives will be a place to see and be seen for bold and stylish socialisers and we look forward to working with S Hotels & Resorts and WEWD to bring this project to life,” commented Garth Simmons, Chief Executive Officer – Accor Southeast Asia, Japan & South Korea.

• Discover the Maldives with VisitMaldives.org, the Sunny Paradise Islands, by Travelindex, go to VisitMaldives.org

“The Maldives is a truly special place, and we are delighted to enter the market with such a prestigious project. S Hotels & Resorts has a proven track record of developing exceptional lifestyle resorts, including CROSSROADS Maldives, and the edgy style of SO/ always strikes a chord with its trend-setting guests. With such strong partners, we are confident of creating a one-of-a-kind resort experience at SO/ Maldives,” added Zaw Win Maung, Managing Director, WEWD.

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, July 17, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Best Western Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of a new upscale hotel in Vietnam, located on the waterfront overlooking Ha Long Bay, the iconic UNESCO World Heritage-listed ecological and geographical wonder.

Best Western Premier Sapphire Ha Long, starts welcoming guests on July 15th 2021, a brand-new 31-story property in the heart of Ha Long city, located on the waterfront of Hong Gai overlooking Ha Long Bay. Moments away from the beach, shopping malls, theme park, pagodas, international cruise terminal and waterpark, water music theatre, island tours.

Blending timeless Vietnamese style and hospitality with international services, the hotel offers the perfect place to stay to both, travelers visiting Ha Long for leisure as well as for business.

Guests have 1,008 spacious rooms and suites all with private balconies, spacious rooms 34 to 68 m2, King, twin and triple rooms complemented by luxury bedding, amenities and toweling. All rooms include complimentary Wi-Fi, extensive IPTV channel selection, large windows offering panoramic views of the bay or city views. A selection of two-bedroom suites provide spacious long stay opportunities to family short stays, each room has two bedrooms and on suite bathroom, spacious living room, large private panoramic balconies.

The hotel features heated indoor pool and seasonal outdoor swimming pool suitable for lap swimming or family fun. A fully equipped fitness center, spa (2022) and kids’ club. With two restaurants and a lobby bar offering a selection of culinary delights including Vietnamese, Asian, sea food and international cuisine can be enjoyed. An executive lounge, business center and meeting facilities with video conferencing available provides additional professional services to all guests.

Cat Bi International Airport is just 50 km away, Van Don International Airport is 45 km away, both offering connections throughout Vietnam, and the Vietnamese capital, Hanoi, can be accessed in 2.5 hours via the high speed expressway.

“We are delighted to cut the ribbon on Best Western Premier Sapphire Ha Long – a world-class new hotel on the waterfront of Ha Long Bay, one of Asia’s most iconic destinations. With its excellent location and extensive amenities, this will become a landmark hotel that attracts international and domestic guests alike. With over 1,000 keys, it is also one of the largest hotels in our regional collection, which reflects our confidence in the future of Vietnam’s hospitality industry,” said Erwann Mahe, Managing Director of International Operations – Asia, Best Western Hotels & Resorts.

Best Western has identified Vietnam as one of its key Asian markets, due to factors including strong economic growth, its captivating culture and a wealth of natural wonders. Following the launch of Best Western Premier Sapphire Ha Long, the group now operates two hotels in Vietnam with 12 more in the pipeline, covering destinations such as Hanoi, Da Nang, Da Lat, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An and Hoa Binh. With multiple brands set to enter the market, including Best Western Plus, Best Western Premier, Executive Residency, BW Premier Collection, and BW Signature Collection, Best Western will be able to cater for every type of traveler in Vietnam.

For more information about Best Western Hotels & Resorts in Asia, please visit www.BestWesternAsia.com.

About Best Western Hotels and Resorts:
Best Western Hotels & Resorts headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, is a privately held hotel brand within the BWH Hotel Group® global network. With 18 brands and approximately 4,700 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*, BWH Hotel Group suits the needs of developers and guests in every market. Brands include Best Western®, Best Western Plus®, Best Western Premier®, Executive Residency by Best Western®, Vīb®, GLō®, Aiden®, Sadie®, BW Premier Collection® and BW Signature Collection®. Through acquisition, WorldHotelsTM Luxury, WorldHotels Elite, WorldHotels Distinctive and WorldHotels Crafted collections are also offered. Completing the portfolio is SureStay®, SureStay Plus®, SureStay Collection® and SureStay StudioSM franchises**.

* Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.
**All Best Western, WorldHotels and SureStay branded hotels are independently owned and operated.

London, United Kingdom, July 16, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The restart of international travel could be seriously delayed without worldwide reciprocal recognition of all approved COVID-19 vaccines, says the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). Warning comes as tourists are blocked at the borders.

The global tourism body, which represents the global private Travel & Tourism sector, has issued its warning following concerns tourists face being turned away at the borders because countries don’t have a common list internationally recognised and approved COVID-19 vaccines.

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

This comes just days after a number of British holidaymakers, who had been administered the Indian Covishield batch of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, were rejected entry into Malta despite the drug being chemically identical to the UK-made vaccine.

Over the past few weeks reports of holidaymakers facing obstacles to entry have been on the rise, with some even being prevented from boarding their flights to destinations.

WTTC believes that once again, the lack of international coordination to agree on a list of approved vaccines, is creating yet another major stumbling block for the restart of international travel.

This comes despite most vaccines have secured the approval of the World Health Organisation (WHO) or Stringent Regulatory Authorities (SRAs), such as the UK’s the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the Food and Drug Administration in the US, and the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

Reports of travellers being turned away because they have the ‘wrong’ vaccine batches or ‘unrecognised’ vaccines have fueled concern from consumers, deterring them from booking and thereby damaging the already struggling Travel & Tourism sector.

The plea for reciprocal recognition for all vaccines and vaccine batches forms part of WTTC’s four new guidelines which are aimed at safely resuming international mobility and save the millions of jobs and livelihoods which depend on this sector, while kick-starting the global economic recovery.

Virginia Messina, Senior Vice President WTTC, said: “Reciprocal recognition of all vaccine types and batches is essential if we are to avoid any further unnecessary and damaging delay to restarting international travel.

“The failure of countries to agree on a common list of all approved and recognised vaccines is of huge concern to WTTC, as we know every day travel is curbed, more cash-strapped Travel & Tourism businesses face even greater strain, pushing ever more to the brink of bankruptcy.

“We can avoid this by having a fully recognised list of all the approved vaccines – and vaccine batches – which should be the key to unlocking international travel, not the door to preventing it.

“It will also give holidaymakers and travellers the confidence they need to book trips, flights and cruises, confident in the knowledge that their fully-vaccinated status will be internationally recognised.”

WTTC says the restoration of safe international travel can be achieved by following its four guidelines.

Through a combination of COVID-19 testing, vaccination, digital health travel passes and the use of health and safety protocols, such as wearing face masks, safe international mobility can resume while at the same time saving millions of jobs and livelihoods which depend on the sector and kick-starting the global economic recovery.

WTTC’s fundamental guidelines to restore international mobility while safeguarding public health include: 

1. Appropriately reduced protocols for vaccinated travellers, including no need for testing or quarantine for those fully vaccinated. Global recognition for international travel of all vaccines authorised for use and deemed safe and effective by the WHO or by the WHO recognised SRAs.
2. A data driven, risk-based and internationally harmonised approach to re-establishing freedom of movement, that is consistent across countries, easy to communicate and clearly understood by travellers.
3. Global adoption of ‘digital health passes’ which enable travellers to easily obtain and verify their vaccination status, negative COVID test result or natural immunity from a previous infection. These must work with existing border control and travel operator systems accepted by all countries. Digital verification of a traveller’s COVID status prior to travel will avoid lengthy and unsafe queues in transport hubs and terminals.
4. Continued implementation of high-quality health and safety standards throughout all areas of the Travel & Tourism sector, including continued adoption of the WTTC’s Safe Travel Protocols and Safe Travel Stamp, with the continued wearing of face masks in crowded and enclosed areas as well as on all forms of public transport.

WTTC advocates the full implementation of these proportionate and responsible guidelines for travel during over the next few months, as many travel restrictions begin being eased as major travel markets begin to reopen.

• Read all the latest WTTC News and Updates here.

This is against the backdrop of a successful vaccination roll out, with a subsequent decrease in deaths, cases, and hospitalisations in many countries. However, variants will continue to be cause of concern as the world struggles to emerge from the effects of the pandemic.

Koh Samui, Thailand, July 16, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is pleased to announce the launch of the Samui Plus programme, under which Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao can be visited by fully vaccinated international tourists with no quarantine requirements.

The Samui Plus programme is for travel between July and December 2021, to these three islands located in Surat Thani province. General information on the Samui Plus programme; such as, entry requirements, on arrival procedures, safety and hygiene measures, and FAQs can be found here.

H.E. Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Tourism and Sports, said “The reopening of Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao to tourism is another significant step toward achieving the Thai Prime Minister’s recently announced policy of reopening the whole country within 120 days, or by the end of October. Phuket is already open as the pilot destination, and other destinations will follow in the scheduled order with carefully planned disease control and public health measures, travel procedures, and the right tourism marketing all being addressed.”

Tourists visiting under the Samui Plus programme can choose to stay in ‘Samui Extra Plus’and ‘SHA Plus’ hotels for the first 7 nights and the remaining 7 nights, respectively. Both labels are officially approved in terms of hygiene and safety. The Samui Extra Plus hotels are formerly ALQ hotels (now referred to as AQ hotels) and have been specially assigned for the Samui Plus programme. SHA Plus-certified hotels mean they meet the necessary measures to control COVID-19, and also that 70% of their workforce has been fully vaccinated.

Mr. Vijvut Tjinto, Governor of Surat Thani Province, said “Surat Thani’s tourism sector together with the provincial authorities are committed to seeing that Samui Plus visitors enjoy a memorable holiday. This can be seen in the dedicated efforts made by all parties involved leading up to the destination’s reopening; such as, the arranging of preventive measures against COVID-19 and the vaccination programme for the local Samui people.”

Dr. Manu Sukolsakul, Surat Thani Provincial Public Health Doctor, said “When it comes to public health measures, everything from the quarantine system and testing and isolation of any positive cases to the accessibility of hospitals and medical personnel is at a state of readiness.”

Samui Plus tourists visiting Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao can rest assured their health and well-being is considered of utmost importance during their time in Thailand.

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor, said “With the Phuket Sandbox and Samui Plus programmes now both in effect, more of the legendary tourism appeal that has made Thailand such a beloved destination for travellers the world over can again be enjoyed. The gorgeous islands of Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao are among the best beach resorts in Asia, and it is fantastic to see these welcoming tourists again.”

For the launch today of the Samui Plus programme, there were nine international arrivals from Hong Kong, France, Germany, Singapore, and the UK. All are members of the media by the invitation of the TAT, as part of the plan to create awareness of the Samui Plus programme through first-hand experience by members of the media, celebrities and influencers from around the world.

TAT expects some 1,000 foreign tourists to arrive under the Samui Plus programme during the first month, from 15 July to 15 August.

Mr. Ratchaporn Poolsawadee, President of Tourism Association of Ko Samui, said “On behalf of the people in Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao, we’re ready to welcome both Thai and international tourists back to these three beautiful islands again. Please come and enjoy your quality time among all this wonderful scenery, experience some exciting activities, enjoy a lot of tasty dishes, as well as our warm hospitality. We hope the Samui Plus model will bring vitalisation and a lively ambience to Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan and Ko Tao again.”

Phuket and Surat Thani’s Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao are the first of Thailand’s destinations to reopen to tourism.

The next destinations to reopen – on 1 September, 2021, – will be Krabi (Ko Phi Phi, Ko Ngai, and Railay Beach), Phang Nga (Khao Lak and Ko Yao), Chiang Mai (Mueang District and Mae Rim, Mae Taeng, and Doi Tao Districts), Chon Buri (Pattaya, Bang Lamung, and Sattahip), and Buri Ram (Mueang District and Chang Arena).

The scheduled date for the reopening of Bangkok, Phetchaburi (Cha-am) and Prachuap Khiri Khan (Hua Hin) is 1 October, 2021, with the rest of Thailand due to reopen throughout the month of October.

Geneva, Switzerland, July 15, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The International Air Transport Association (IATA) warned that the reliance on taxation as the solution for cutting aviation emissions in the EU’s ‘Fit for 55’ proposal is counter-productive to the goal of sustainable aviation. EU policy needs to support practical emission reduction measures such as incentives for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and modernization of air traffic management.

“Aviation is committed to decarbonization as a global industry. We don’t need persuading, or punitive measures like taxes to motivate change. In fact, taxes siphon money from the industry that could support emissions’ reducing investments in fleet renewal and clean technologies. To reduce emissions, we need governments to implement a constructive policy framework that, most immediately, focuses on production incentives for SAF and delivering the Single European Sky,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Comprehensive Approach

Achieving aviation decarbonization requires a combination of measures. These include:

• Sustainable Aviation Fuels which reduce emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuel. Insufficient supply and high prices have limited airline uptake to 120 million litres in 2021 — a small fraction of the 350 billion litres that airlines would consume in a ‘normal’ year.
• Market-based measures to manage emissions until technology solutions are fully developed. The industry supports the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) as a global measure for all international aviation. It avoids creating a patchwork of uncoordinated national or regional measures such as the EU Emissions Trading Scheme, that can undermine international cooperation. Overlapping schemes can lead to the same emissions being paid for more than once. IATA is extremely concerned by the Commission’s proposal that European States would no longer implement CORSIA on all international flights.
• Single European Sky (SES) to reduce unnecessary emissions from fragmented air traffic management (ATM) and resulting inefficiencies. Modernizing European ATM through the SES initiative would cut  Europe’s aviation emissions between 6-10%, but national governments continue to delay implementation.
• Radical new clean technologies. While it is unlikely that electric or hydrogen propulsion could have a significant impact on aviation emissions within the EU ‘Fit for 55’ timeframe of 2030, the development of these technologies is ongoing and needs to be supported.

“Aviation’s near-term vision is to provide sustainable, affordable air transport for all European citizens with SAF-powered fleets, operating with efficient air traffic management. We should all be worried that the EU’s big idea to decarbonize aviation is making jet fuel more expensive through tax. That will not get us to where we need to be. Taxation will destroy jobs. Incentivizing SAF will improve energy independence and create sustainable jobs. The focus must be on encouraging the production of SAF, and delivering the Single European Sky,” said Walsh.

Promoting SAF

The most practical near-term solution to reducing emissions is SAF. Energy transitions are successful when production incentives drive down the price of alternative fuels while driving supplies up. The EU ‘Fit for 55’ proposal does not include direct measures that will achieve this. Without specific measures to reduce SAF costs, it does, however, propose a mandate to increase SAF utilization to 2% of jet fuel use by 2025 and at least 5% by 2030.

“Making SAF cheaper will accelerate aviation’s energy transition and improve Europe’s competitiveness as a green economy. But making jet fuel more expensive through taxation scores an ‘own goal’ on competitiveness that does little to accelerate the commercialization of SAF,” said Walsh.

Mandating a gradual transition to SAF is a less efficient policy compared to comprehensive production incentives, but it may contribute to making SAF more affordable and widely available in Europe, but only under the following key conditions:

• It is limited to EU-only flights. This will limit the negative impacts on the competitiveness of European air transport and potential political challenges from other countries
• It is accompanied by policy measures to ensure a competitive market and appropriate production incentives. The mandated use of SAF must not allow energy companies to engage in uncompetitive practices with the resulting high costs being borne by airlines and passengers.
• It is targeted at locations which have substantial airline operations and close proximity to SAF refineries.

Concrete actions on Single European Sky are urgently needed

The SES has been on the drawing board for 20 years but has made little progress despite the promise of a 6-10% improvement in environmental performance, safer operations and reduced delays.

“Europe’s national politicians are quick to lecture airlines on the efforts industry should be making on the environment. But they are silent when it comes to areas of their own responsibility. Just recently the European Council failed to show any leadership to cut emissions by harmonizing European air traffic management. Moreover, the constant absence of political support from states on the SES proposals undermines the credibility of the ‘Fit for 55’ proposal and the credibility of Europe’s determination to drive real solutions for sustainability,” said Walsh.

Muscat, Oman, July 15, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Thailand’s leading hotel operator pushes forward with international expansion plans to become a top 100 global hotel operator within five years. Thailand’s leading hotel operator Centara Hotels & Resorts and Ibn Saleh Al Hashmi Construction (ISAHC) announced the signing of a Hotel Management Agreement (HMA) for Al Hail Waves managed by Centara.

• Discover the World’s Best Luxury Hotels and Global Hotel Operators only at Top25 Hotels

The management of the 64-key existing property will come into effect on 1st January 2022, after which Centara will start to refurbish the property to align with Centara’s brand and operational standards while it remains in operation.

“We are proud and excited to launch our third hotel in Oman, a country blessed with stunning nature, fascinating historical sites, and rich cultural heritage. The Omani government has laid out an ambitious roadmap to achieve long term goals set forth in the Omani Tourism Strategy, and with Ibn Saleh Al Hashmi Construction as our partner, we are confident that we will attract discerning travellers with our sharing, caring family values,” said Thirayuth Chirathivat, Chief Executive Officer, Centara Hotels & Resorts.

Founded in 1994, Ibn Saleh Al Hashmi Construction (ISAHC) is one of the fastest growing construction companies in Oman with a proven track record for an impressive portfolio including hotels, private villas, and residential buildings. Al Hail Waves managed by Centara will be ISAHC’s third project awarded to Centara after Muscat Dunes Hotel and Centara Muscat Hotel Oman.

“For our latest hospitality project in Oman, we are delighted to work once again with Centara Hotels & Resorts. We share the same position of leadership in everything we do, supported by a common vision of sustainable growth. We have confidence in the group’s international sales and marketing expertise and look forward to a continued journey of success as we offer visitors an appealing choice of top-class hotels in Oman,” said Abdullah Saleh Saif Al Hashmi, Chairman of Ibn Saleh Al Hashmi Construction.

The hotel’s 64 holiday residences include Standard Rooms (20 – 26 sqm) designed for modern living and Studios (35 – 40 sqm) which come fully furnished with facilities including a kitchenette. The largest Two-Bedroom Apartments measure 84 sqm and feature separate lounge and dining areas, as well as amenities and modern comforts for long stays and travelling families.

Other facilities at Al Hail Waves managed by Centara include an all-day dining restaurant, a swimming pool overlooking the Arabian Sea, fully equipped gym, as well as two meeting rooms to accommodate events of up to 150 guests.

Situated in the northwest of Muscat on the road connecting Al-Seeb and Al Athaiba, Al Hail Waves managed by Centara is centrally located with both The Seeb corniche and the beach within walking distance from the hotel. The premier leisure destination of Al Mouj is a short drive from the hotel, and the new Muscat International Airport is a 15-minute drive away.

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About Centara
Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 84 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, China, Japan, Oman, Qatar, Cambodia, Turkey, Indonesia and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, Centara Grand Hotels & Resorts, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Boutique Collection, Centra by Centara and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology. The group’s newest Centara Reserve brand was unveiled in 2020 as an experiential luxury collection, inviting guests to discover a new era of story-driven hospitality starting with Centara Reserve Samui.

Centara also operates state-of-the-art convention centres and has its own award-winning spa brand, Cenvaree. Throughout the collection, Centara delivers and celebrates the hospitality and values Thailand is famous for including gracious service, exceptional food, pampering spas and the importance of families. Centara’s distinctive culture and diversity of formats allow it to serve and satisfy travellers of nearly every age and lifestyle.

Over the next five years Centara aims to become a top 100 global hotel group, while spreading its footprint into new continents and market niches. As Centara continues to expand, a growing base of loyal customers will find the company’s unique style of hospitality in more locations. Centara’s global loyalty programme, Centara The1, reinforces their loyalty with rewards, privileges and special member pricing.

Porto, Portugal, July 14, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The mayors of some of the world’s leading destinations have met in Porto to rethink urban tourism in the post-pandemic age. Organized by UNWTO, the Government of Portugal, Turismo de Portugal and the City of Porto, the Mayors Forum on Tourism and the Future of Cities highlighted the opportunity to restart urban tourism with a focus on sustainability, innovation and inclusion.

Formed in April 2019, the Mayors Forum provides a unique platform for cities and other key players to share tourism policies and best practices. The international forum works to advance tourism’s role in the urban agenda and harness the potential of the sector to provide economic opportunity and promote cultural links. The Porto meeting was embraced as a chance to rethink urban tourism and keep delivering on its proven potential to benefit both residents and tourists.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

Return of tourists ‘brings hope for cities’

The return of tourists to cities around the world will bring more than just jobs and economic recovery

Urban tourism has been among the hardest hit parts of the sector and may be the last to recover. For this reason, “the return of tourists to cities around the world will bring more than just jobs and economic recovery”, said UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili. “It will bring hope, confidence and help revive what makes urban life so exciting, from culture to gastronomy to entrepreneurship and new ideas.” In this context, the Secretary-General also commended Portugal’s National Support Plan for Tourism recovery as well as its recently launched Sustainability + Strategy.

Pedro Siza Vieira, Minister of State, Economy and Digital Transition of Portugal said: “Now is the time to reflect on how important management of flows of tourists is in our cities. Digital technologies and continued investments in new attractions will allow us to provide a better experience for the millions of people who are eager to resume travel and who will come to visit our cities in the future.”

As host of the Forum, the Mayor of Porto Rui Moreira said: “Cities must know how to transform themselves, turning the old into new, rehabilitating and promoting their heritage, material and immaterial, and simultaneously creating new poles of interest to serve and welcome residents and visitors.”

Organized by UNWTO, the Government of Portugal, Turismo de Portugal and the City of Porto the Forum welcomed mayors and vice-mayors from Athens, Belgrade, Braga, Bruges, Brussels, Budapest, Dubrovnik, Florence, Madrid, Moscow, Podgorica, Prague, Samarkand, Sao Vicente, Skiathos, Tirana and Venice. Joining them were leaders from UN Habitat, the European Committee of the Regions and the Unión Ciudades Capitales Iberoamericanas (UCCI), as well as representatives from key private sector stakeholders, including Expedia Group, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and Airbnb.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

Porto Declaration on Future of Cities

Participants adopted the Porto Declaration on Tourism and the Future of Cities, which reaffirms cities’ commitment to growing tourism sustainably and responsibly. This includes placing tourism on the urban recovery agenda, with policies aligned with the United Nations New Urban Agenda and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Declaration also states that signatory cities will promote multi-stakeholder cooperation for fostering innovation and using digitalization and big data to enhance both the tourist experience and the sector’s positive impact on residents. Furthermore, the Declaration recognizes the importance of cities building bridges with rural areas so that the benefits of tourism are employed more widely.

Doha, Qatar, July 14, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Qatar Airways and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that Qatar Airways will become the first airline in the Middle East to join the IATA Turbulence Aware platform.

IATA’s Turbulence Aware helps airlines mitigate the impact of turbulence, a leading cause of passenger and crew injuries and higher fuel costs each year, by pooling and sharing anonymized turbulence data from multiple participating airlines and thousands of daily flights. The real-time, accurate information enables pilots and dispatchers to choose optimal flight paths, avoiding turbulence and flying at optimum levels to maximize fuel efficiency and thereby reduce CO2 emissions.

Qatar Airways was the first Middle Eastern airline to participate in the Turbulence Aware initiative when it was launched as a pilot project in December 2018. Turbulence Aware has since expanded into a fully operational platform with over 1,500 reporting aircraft sharing real-time turbulence data. With today’s announcement Qatar Airways has equipped 120 aircraft with the Turbulence Aware platform, with plans to expand to the rest of its fleet.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “With safety and environmental sustainability as our top priority, we show our commitment towards responsible flying. We continue to innovate as one of the world’s leading airlines by adopting this new solution that combines technology and big data for more efficient flight planning not only to ensure a smooth journey, but also to reduce fuel burn, in turn lowering our carbon emissions. To make flying safer and more sustainable, the airline industry must leverage such digital innovations, and work together to share turbulence data for more precise forecasting.”

IATA’s Director General, Willie Walsh, said, “We welcome this major commitment from Qatar Airways in becoming the first Middle East airline to join the Turbulence Aware program. This will significantly increase the coverage area for this important safety and operational initiative, providing real-time turbulence information not only to Qatar Airways aircrew, but to all the other participating airlines. Qatar Airways has a long history of working with IATA and supporting us on multiple industry initiatives.”

The challenge of managing turbulence is expected to grow as climate change continues to impact weather patterns. This has implications for both safety and efficiency of flight. Turbulence Aware is a significant improvement in turbulence reporting and avoiding excess fuel consumption.

Qatar Airways also see this as a contributor to helping the aviation industry tackle its carbon targets, alongside other initiatives like carbon offsetting, sustainable aviation fuels, electric aircraft, and general awareness about the impact of flying.