Category: Latest Travel News

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand (India) – January 8, 2019 (travelindex.com) – The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has gathered a diverse line-up of thought leaders, innovators and pioneers to share their insights and knowledge on one of the fastest growing tourism sectors of travel at the upcoming PATA Adventure Travel and Responsible Tourism Conference and Mart 2019 (ATRTCM 2019) in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India.

The event, generously hosted by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board, will be held at the Ganga Resort GMVN from February 13-15 with the theme ‘Rejuvenate Your Soul Through Travel’.

“Adventure travel has become one of the fastest growing tourism sectors as travellers look for new, out-of-the ordinary experiences. In addition, tourists are also seeking to incorporate healthier activities into their travel itineraries. This year’s event will examine both adventure travel and wellness tourism and how best to capitalise on these growing industries,” said PATA CEO Dr. Mario Hardy. “Rishikesh, India with its backdrop of tall mountains amidst the gushing sounds of crystal-clear waters provides the perfect setting for this event, encompassing both excitement and tranquilly.”

Tourism has the power to rejuvenate and to transform but in the age of overtourism and mass tourism, rejuvenation does not necessarily happen organically. It is the result of careful planning by destinations, thoughtful experience design by tour operators and mindfulness by tourists. This year’s conference programme explores the themes of niche tourism, especially those unique to Rishikesh – a place of rejuvenation through its wellness and adventure travel products.

Confirmed speakers include Ajay Jain, Speaker, Writer and Owner – Kunzum Travel Cafe; Apoorva Prasad, Editor-in-Chief and Founder – The Outdoor Journal; Mariellen Ward, Digital Storyteller, Content Marketer and Traveller – Breathedreamgo; Dr. Mario Hardy, CEO – PATA; Daw Moe Moe Lwin, Director and Vice Chairperson – Yangon Heritage Trust; Mohan Narayanaswamy, Managing Director – Travel Scope; Natasha Martin, Managing Director – Bannikin Asia; Paul Brady, Editorial Strategist – Skift; Philippa Kaye, Founder – Indian Experiences; Rajeev Tewari, CEO – Garhwal Himalayan Explorations Pvt. Ltd.; Robin Weber Pollak, President – Journeys International; Rohan Prakash, CEO – Trip 360; Shradha Shrestha, Manager – Brand Promotion and Corporate Marketing, Nepal Tourism Board; Trevor Jonas Benson, Director of Food Tourism Innovation – Culinary Tourism Alliance; Vivienne Tang, Founder – Destination Deluxe, and Yosha Gupta, Founder – Meraki.

The conference will explore various topics including ‘Rejuvenating Your Soul Through Travel’; ‘Storytelling to Sell Travel on Instagram’; ‘Using Sustainability to Future-Proof Our Destination’; ‘Trends to India’; ‘Creating Experiences that are Regenerative’; ‘Marketing to the New Adventure Travellers’; ‘Tourism as a Tool for Rejuvenation’; ‘A Special Story of Indian Rejuvenation’, and ‘Sustaining our Souls: Vision-Driven Leadership in Adventure Tourism’.

Nestled amidst lush greeneries guarded by the breathtaking hills of northern Uttarakhand, the tranquil city of Rishikesh is oft­en claimed as the `Yoga Capital of the World’. The city attracts tourists from all over the world for its numerous adventure sports such as white-water raft­ing, cliff-jumping, kayaking and camping. Known as the ‘Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas’, Rishikesh is also a designated starting point for treks to numerous Himalayan pilgrimage centres and shrines.

For more information or to register for the event as a seller, conference or media delegate, please visit www.PATA.org/ATRTCM or email ATRTCM@PATA.org.

About PATA
Founded in 1951, PATA is a not-for-profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research and innovative events to its more than 800 member organisations, including 95 government, state and city tourism bodies, 20 international airlines and airports, 102 hospitality organisations and 70 educational institutions, as well as over a hundred young tourism professional (YTP) members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism the PATA Chapters and Student Chapters, who organise numerous travel industry training programmes and business development events across the world. Thousands of travel professionals belong to the 35 local PATA Chapters worldwide, while hundreds of students are members of the 22 PATA Student Chapters globally. Their local activities underpins PATA’s membership in Uniting Travel, a coalition of the world’s major Travel & Tourism organisations dedicated to ensuring that the sector speaks with one voice and acts in unison on the major issues and includes ACI, CLIA, IATA, ICAO, WEF, UNWTO and the WTTC. The PATAmPOWER platform delivers unrivalled data, forecasts and insights from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre to members’ desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world. PATA’s Head Office has been in Bangkok since 1998. The Association also has official offices or representation in Beijing and London. Visit www.PATA.org.
Media Contact:

PATA
Paul Pruangkarn
Director – Communications
+66 (02) 658-2000 | communications@PATA.org | Bangkok, Thailand

Victoria, Mahe (Seychelles) – January 7, 2019 (travelindex.com) – Welcome to the first edition of our Volume 3 series. This year is not set to be an easy one for Seychelles as hinted or otherwise echoed by the President of the Republic at his last Press Conference, and also reiterated by the Leader of the Opposition during his closing remarks in the National Assembly’s last session for 2018. A difficult year with many new cost increases are set to make the lives of the ordinary Seychellois even more difficult as businesses are also going to be hit in one way or another. The difficulties Seychelles will experience in 2019 are all man-made and locally legislated.

Today, we speak of our Blue Economy as a newly discovered national asset, yet Seychelles has been a leader in the field of Conservation for many years. Our Conservation Policy protected our seas, today positioned at the very centre of the Blue Economy, and our island’s policies was aimed at protecting our assets both above and below the sea. Sea Turtles were protected, and hunting with Spear Fishing Guns was banned. Lobsters were fished in dedicated season and Sea Cucumber fishing was per a quota system. National Parks were created and the concept of Wild Life Clubs were introduced. Seychellois fought for the return of their three islands that formed part of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) and we objected to the creation of the military base on Aldabra, favouring instead, to have a Nature Reserve created. Today this same reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Vallee de Mai Gardens of Praslin were also declared a Nature Reserve with thousands of acres of prime land all in the name of conservation. Protection versus destruction brought positive results as the Seychellois made sacrifices in safeguarding their territory. Beaches were cleaned and reefs protected, fishermen were encouraged to be more conscious of their industry and boat owners played their part. Was that the Blue Economy? We did not say Oil but said conservation. The sacrifices by Seychelles and the Seychellois may all be wasted efforts if now in 2019 a military base is to be set up just next door to Aldabra the island our parents and grand parents fought to see its return from Great Britain. The Blue Economy is a nice talking subject but Seychelles must walk the talk to be taken seriously by us Seychellois first.

This call as Sea Level Rise is seen as troubling

Mr Corgat’s call for ratification of the Government’s decision for a military base comes as our Renowned Environmentalist Nirmal Jivan Shah said in his own post:- Danger, Danger! A new study reveals that Seychelles, Bangladesh and Cocos Keeling Islands have high rates of sea level rise. These regions are therefore highly vulnerable to coastal flooding induced by the accelerating sea level rise in future decades, posing significant threats to coastal communities and ecosystems. The findings published in the Journal of Hydrology indicate that vertical land motion is an important factor affecting sea level changes for the regions of Seychelles and Cocos Islands. There is a strong relationship between air temperature and sea level rise for all studied regions.

Seychelles at the 5th International Young Chef Olympiad 2019

Murla Marie from the Seychelles Tourism Academy (STA) has confirmed that Cheftestant Tracy Celine URANIE will represent Seychelles and Mentor Chef Erryl Jeremiah Morel will be spearheading the island’s team for the 5th International YoungChefOlympiad 2019.

The opening of doors for our young Seychellois is a responsibility of the islands and we can say Congratulations to The Seychelles Tourism Academy (STA) for standing behind our young professionals. Experience is gathered through such events and the Seychellois Team will return home ready to share with colleagues and friends all they have picked up in this continuously evolving trade.

Air Seychelles in day to day discussions

The recent posting on Social media announcing that effective 1st January 2019 the removal of Etihad Guest Program and Partner Airline in Air Seychelles Public Announcements raised many an eyebrow. It should have been expected ever since Air Seychelles became part of the Etihad Holdings and was removed as part of the Etihad Airline body. Air Seychelles Crew conducting the Public Announcements must now refrain from mentioning “EY (Etihad) Guests programme script, Etihad Airways and Partner Airline” according to the note posted on Social Media for all to see through staff connections. This is a blow to Air Seychelles as it will be seen by all as an adverse situation.

The second even more contentious discussion point is the ‘subsidising of travel to India’ by Seychelles. Advertised flight rates by Air Seychelles posted only five days ago states the following:- Johannesburg to Mumbai South African Rands 5306 for flights between 1 January to 30 June and a flight from Johannesburg to Seychelles is South African Rands 7792 for travels during the same period. India is some 5 hours more one way from Seychelles and it is cheaper to fly via Seychelles and benefit of some Rands 2400 per ticket. A straight promotion for travel to India over holidays to Seychelles.

Flights from Seychelles to South Africa are advertised at Seychelles Rupees 7169 or South African Rands 7366.

Similarly a Seychelles to Mauritius ticket cost if available Rupees 7813 and a Mumbai to Mauritius is being advertised at Indian Rupees 38071 (Seychelles Rupees 7469 approx.).

Air Seychelles was and should be the partner for the tourism industry of Seychelles. It was created as the insurance policy for the islands tourism industry. Today we have moved away from these key principles and we are acting as just an airline looking at itself. This principle should push Government to open 5th Freedom Rights to create competition on the Seychelles route to help tourism and Seychellois with their travels.

Dubai (United Arab Emirates) – January 4, 2019 (travelindex.com) – Only in Dubai set of initiatives will deliver authentic and world-class end-to-end destination experiences across travel touchpoints. Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) is rolling out a set of initiatives to deliver end-to-end “Only in Dubai” experiences to ensure tourists get to enjoy an unforgettable stay in the emirate, and encourage repeat visitation, as part of efforts to further strengthen and sustain the city’s world-class propositions.

One of the key pillars of Dubai’s Tourism Vision 2022-2025, the “Only in Dubai” set of initiatives will deliver authentic and world-class end-to-end destination experiences across travel touchpoints that are tailored to relevant segments of tourists.

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The tourism strategy announced by Dubai’s visionary leadership aims to make Dubai the most visited city in the world, targeting 25 million visitors annually by 2025, and the unparalleled “Only in Dubai’ experiences will offer regular unexpected delight moments and active reduction of detractor moments or pain points that will positively impact guest happiness to inspire the millions of tourists to re-visit Dubai.

Measuring visitor recommendation and satisfaction is being done through Tourism’s Happiness Index, which was launched under His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. This index, measures not only Dubai’s ability to exceed service expectations, but also helps ensure that every visitor to Dubai becomes a passionate loyalist and a firm advocate of the city.

Issam Kazim, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: “While our world-class propositions and experiences showcase the diversity of the destination offerings and provide segment-based preferences for tourists, we are working closely with our partners and stakeholders to curate, create and deliver personalised end-to-end experiences. This means that visitors will be able to enjoy memorable moments at every step of their journey, which starts from the time they start planning their trip to Dubai and even after they leave Dubai. By providing “Only in Dubai” experiences, tourists are bound to leave the city in a happy frame of mind, carrying with them many memorable moments that will only make them want to come back or spread the word about Dubai’s delightful offerings among families and friends.”

Dubai Tourism will develop end-to-end “Only in Dubai” experiences with the help of the emirate’s agile and responsive ecosystem, featuring collaborations with partners and stakeholders in creating various specialised programmes, activations and authentic one-of-a-kind experiences.

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Dubai Tourism has already laid a solid groundwork for the elevation of customer service through the Dubai Way programme run by its Dubai College of Tourism (DCT). The Dubai Way programme is targeted at government and private sector staff engaged in tourist-facing roles in a range of sectors from hospitality to retail to the domestic transportation service, with the aim of imparting standardised information and instructions and ensuring excellent guest relations and customer service at tourist touchpoints across the emirate.

About Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism)
With the ultimate vision of positioning Dubai as the world’s leading tourism destination and commercial hub, Dubai Tourism’s mission is to increase the awareness of Dubai among global audiences and to attract tourists and inward investment into the emirate. Dubai Tourism is the principal authority for the planning, supervision, development and marketing of Dubai’s tourism sector. It markets and promotes the Emirate’s commerce sector, and is responsible for the licensing and classification of all tourism services, including hotels, tour operators and travel agents. Brands and departments within the Dubai Tourism portfolio include Dubai Business Events, Dubai Calendar, and Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment.

For further information, please contact:
Dubai Tourism
mediarelations@dubaitourism.ae
+971 600 55 5559

Bangkok (Thailand) – January 3, 2019 (travelindex.com) – The latest Global Destination Sustainability (GDS) Index has shown Bangkok came in second on the list of Asian destinations ranked. The rating, which measured by social and environmental sustainability strategies, industry supplier support, and Convention Bureau strategy and initiatives, also accentuated TCEB’s performance as a top scorer when compared to Convention Bureaus in other Asian destinations participated in the ranking.

International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) recently gave out GDS-Index Awards to top five destinations recognised for their sustainable practices in the business tourism and events industry.
List of cities with the five highest overall scores are Gothenburg (Sweden); Copenhagen (Denmark), Reykjavík (Iceland), Oslo (Norway), and Uppsala (Sweden) respectively.

According to the index, top five Asian cities with highest overall scores are Kyoto (Japan), Bangkok (Thailand), Goyang (South Korea), Sapporo (Japan), and Dubai (United Arab Emirates) respectively.

Bangkok was ranked second in Asia and 21st in the world according to the GDS-Index. The ranking was measured across four key areas including city environmental strategy and infrastructure (14 topics); city social sustainability performance (4 topics); industry supplier support (8 topics); and Convention Bureau (CVB) strategy and initiatives (12 topics). In overall, Bangkok received a total score of 58%. The city scored 69% in the area of CVB’s performance or higher scores than the global benchmark which stood at 53%.

Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB, said that Bangkok and TCEB participated in the GDS-Index for the first time and the bureau is delighted with the result. The ranking showcases the country’s commitment to the international standard and the focus on environmental sustainability for meetings and events industry.

“Given the fact that international MICE travellers increasingly focus on sustainability while the GDS-Index aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, therefore, this ranking certainly benefits both MICE industry and Thailand at the same time,” said Mr Chiruit.

The Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDS-Index) is a prize-winning grassroots Scandinavian initiative that evolved into the first-ever sustainability ranking for event destinations worldwide. A collaborative partnership between ICCA, European Cities Marketing, IMEX and MCI Group, promotes knowledge sharing, capacity building, and benchmarking.

According to ICCA and UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, Thailand ranked fifth in Asia for international conventions and seventh in Asia for international exhibitions. Both indexes spotlighted Thailand as the number one destination for conventions and exhibitions among ASEAN countries.

Bangkok (Thailand) – January 2, 2019 (travelindex.com) – The Tourism Authority of Thailand and Iconsiam Co., Ltd. in collaboration with The Iconsiam Residence Corporation Ltd., The Iconsiam Superlux Residence Corporation Ltd., and the largest coalition of public and private sector organisations including Association of Chao Phraya Commerce, Marine Department, Siam Commercial Bank, TRUE Corporation Public Company Limited, Kasikorn Bank, Thai Shipping Association, Bangkok River Partners, and Chao Phraya Riverside Communities have jointly organised the “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2019“, with the longest fireworks display ever staged along Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River in Thailand in which more than a million people expected to view this spectacular displays. Under the theme of “The River of Glory,” the New Year Celebration is a riverside mega phenomenon created by ground-breaking collaboration of Thai people aiming to revitalise Bangkok’s world-renown Chao Phraya River as a national landmark and a global destination. Come observe the longest eco-friendly fireworks display stretching more than 1.4 km ever staged along Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River, appreciate the “Khone” epic masked performance in the grand episode of “Rama Returns to Reign over the City”, enjoy an extensive line-up of cultural performers and top ranked singers from local and international on stage to mark Thailand’s entry into the New Year 2019 at Iconsiam’s riverside ‘River Park’ plaza.

According to Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), “Every year we organise extraordinary events to mark the New Year and reinforce Thailand as a great destination for visitors, and this year’s will be a particularly sensational one. This year we’ll organize the event in 5 different provinces: Bangkok, Chiang Rai, Nakhon Phanom, Ratchaburi, and Satun. Together with Iconsiam and the largest coalition of public and private sector organisations, “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2019″ in Bangkok is exceptional in more ways than one. It will take place by the Chao Phraya River right in the heart of Bangkok and bring into light the charm and serenity as well as way of life of the surrounding communities. I think all tourists and visitors shall find their attendance an added-value experience. I am convinced that the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2019 will be a forward step for our country to project the image as a global tourist destination.”

Mrs. Pasinee Limatibul, Chairman of Iconsiam Co., Ltd., adds that “We are honoured to have been selected by TAT and are proud to have organized the “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2019″ with TAT and other largest coalition of public and private partners. I would like to sincerely thank to the fact that all parties have jointly collaborated to create the truly amazing countdown for the night. With confidence that Amazing Thailand Countdown 2019 will be able to glorify the greatness of the Chao Phraya River and also spark the glow of the Chao Phraya River to illuminate the eyes of Thai and foreigners completely.”

Here are the major highlights of the upcoming “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2019” to be witnessed by more than a million people in the proximity of the river and beyond. The fireworks are made from Thai sticky rice and considered an innovation that is eco-friendly. The massive display of fireworks based on the theme of “The River of Glory” demonstrates the history of the Chao Phraya River pertaining to our way of life, tradition, and legends of Siam (now Thailand) as a country. This 5-minute fireworks display will be carried out at five different river curves. It will feature the longest fireworks display stretching of more than 1.4 km long ever staged on the Chao Phraya River. The display consists of 5 Acts.

– The first Act – “The River of Prosperity” is a fireworks display in silver, gold, and bronze colours held together consecutively. Based on the beliefs of people, the three elements symbolize prosperity. As such, the first second of the New Year is to make the Chao Phraya River bright, beautiful, peaceful and prosperous as it has been over the years.

– The second Act – “The Siam Treasure” is a fireworks display of multiple shapes and colours that reflect a close interconnection between our tradition, a way of life and the Chao Phraya River. Not only that the River was essential in daily human activities, it was also what people utilized for transportation, a naval route for diplomatic corps coming in to establish diplomatic relations with Siam, a way to transport products and conduct trade since Ayutthaya period to present, a way to perform religious rites, and an attractive scene that capture imagination of overseas tourists and generate income for our country.

– The third Act – “The Blossom of Joy” is a fireworks display that creates excitement in more ways than one. The display is accompanied by Thai folk songs that reflect our uniqueness as fun-loving, friendly, and smiling people. Any overseas tourist visiting Thailand and attending the event at Iconsiam will become impressed with, for example, reciprocity of Thai people. Such an impression is enough to start a happy New Year by the Chao Phraya River-a bloodline of Thailand.

– The fourth Act – “One World” is a fireworks display that highlights the flags and colours of the nations of the world. It also represents their connectivity through tourism, trade, education, cultural exchange based on equality that will flourish from the start of the New Year and in the years to come.

– The fifth Act – “Thailand” is a fireworks display of the tricolors of Thailand’s national flag along the Chao Phraya River. The tricolors of red, white and blue collectively represent our national identity as an independent country shielded by our solidarity and unity.

In addition, Magnolia Quality Development Corporation Co., Ltd. (MQDC) also created a great phenomenon with the countdown to welcome the New Year on the Chao Phraya River. A spectacular light show of “The New Beginning of 2019” highlighting on the 70-storey Magnolias Waterfront Residences at Iconsiam and the 52-storey The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, both with unparalleled views out onto the Bangkok skyline and beyond is like the first light of the year 2019 that reflects the glory of Thailand, the beauty of the river current, and the unity of the Thai nation through the colours of light and the lines of the buildings.

People could appreciate the display of fireworks on both sides of the River within the 2-km vicinity. The vicinity encompasses Millennium Hilton Hotel, The Peninsula Hotel, Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel, Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Shangri-La Hotel, Lebua at State Tower Hotel, Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse, Holy Rosary Church, Kularp Wittaya School, Police Station 2, Sathorn Bridge, Wat Suwan Pier, Klong Sarn Pier, Muang Kae Pier, Chalermprakiat Park, CAT TOWER, River City, LHONG 1919, King Power Mahanakorn, Sampeng Car Park, and many other by-the-river restaurants.

Furthermore, there will be a “Khone” masked performance of “Rama Returns to Reign over the City” grand episode. As part of the New Year Celebration 2019, the “Khone” masked performance is in honour of it being listed by UNESCO as the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This traditional masked performance use traditional costumes that are elaborate and elegant, and worth of several million baht, while the makeup is undertaken by Ajarn Peeramon Chomdhavat and Ajarn Surat Jongda both of whom are seasoned and experienced Khone specialists for more than 25 years.

The “Rama Returns to Reign over the City” episode is a story of the victory of “Rama” or “Phra Ram” over Tossakan and his giant army in a long-fought war. As peace had finally returned to the Ayutthaya Kingdom, the people and the army pleaded Rama to return to the throne as their king once again. Joy prevailed throughout the land and the heavens. People and angels were engaged in dancing, the most notable traditional dance of all was U-thong Dance, and celebrating the return of their King.

In addition, leading 21 Thai and overseas artists will be on stage to perform on the New Year eve to keep our local and foreign tourists fully entertained. Among well-known artists who will be there included AF & The Voice artists – Ton Thanasit, Aim Satida and Boat Siriroj, Oh Sipoom and Ice Thamolwan and from The Star artists – Hun Isariya, Kangsom Tanatat, Gam Wichayanee and Kan Napat including the performance from EXACT actors – Film Thanapat, Bright Norapat, Tong Tong Wuttipat, Kang Vorakorn, Rith Ruangrit, Chen Ratchpong, Frank Chatchai, famous actor from Channel 3 Great Varitorn, together with talented nine-year-old Thai musician Gail Sophicha, famous Taiwanese pop singer Janice YAN, and the winner of the first season of “The Voice Thailand” as well as the fourth season of “The Mask Singer” Nont Tanont, and dancing queen of Thailand Christina Aguilar.

The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2019 being staged at Iconsiam’s riverside ‘River Park’ plaza is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience you will never forget.

Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) – January 2, 2019 (travelindex.com) – The African Union’s (AU) long held ambitions for a fully integrated continent is closer to becoming reality this year thanks the vision of one particularly ambitious airline and more governments tweaking their visa policies for fellow Africans.

Almost three decades after it was first proposed, African countries finally launched the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), a major step towards opening the continent’s skies. This version of the AU initiative is largely based on the Yamoussoukro Decision of 1999 (pdf).

As industry insiders have long claimed, the single air market should result in cheaper and more regular flights between African cities in the long-term. The reality for many African travelers has involved expensive and complicated trips between African cities with multi-stop itineraries—sometimes in Europe before heading back to the destination African city.

African countries also became marginally more open in 2018, building on the success recorded last year. The African Development Bank’s 2018 Africa Visa Openness Index showed the small improvements, but even then Africans still require visas to travel to over half of other African countries.

One highlight in visa liberation policies saw Ethiopia open up its borders to African visitors with a visa-on-arrival push, the largest African country by population to do so to date. All of the top 20 most visa-open nations in Africa saw increased travel and tourism figures, the Visa Openness Index says.

As Africans fly more around the continent for tourism or trade, it’s likely they will do so via Ethiopian Airlines and carriers it has partnered with or helped revive as part of its strong pan-African strategy.

A $300 million aircraft purchase drive has seen Ethiopian Airlines boost its fleet and expand its destinations within the continent, enhancing its continental dominance. Beyond helping African travelers get around the continent, Ethiopian Airlines’ widening reach is a boon for African inbound tourism: starting next year, the airline will start helping Chinese visitors process visas to travel across Africa. Already, Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital and hub of the national carrier, has overtaken Dubai as the world’s gateway into Africa

Victoria, Mahe (Seychelles) – December 31, 2018 (travelindex.com) – The last day of 2018 has arrived and tomorrow is the New Year. Firstly Happy New Year to all family members, to my friends and acquaintances and to all who have supported me and the Saint Ange Tourism Report in 2018. My friends from the Press Community, your support during 2018 has ensured that I remained visible and in so doing, relevant – Thank you very much. You have become real and sincere friends.

As we welcome in 2019, we need to reflect on all the happenings in 2018 and we should make resolutions we feel we need to see happen, and what we want to see happen in 2019.

Seychelles offers tourism for all

Seychelles has a diverse tourism product which makes its strength and which has guaranteed its success. Seychelles offers tourism for all. Visiting journalists to the islands continue to raise this question, and only last week Alain St.Ange, the former Seychelles Minister responsible for Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine was quizzed on the ‘Tourism for All’ he had pushed during his campaign as a Candidate for the post of Secretary General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).

Minister Alain St.Ange spoke about the continued drive by Seychelles for every niche market within the tourism industry. “Firstly Seychelles does not discriminate in who visits the islands. We are friends of all and enemies of none, which is why we welcome everyone with no necessity for Visas by anyone to visit our islands. Friends cannot be made to seek a Visa to visit their friends. Secondly because of our unique location where we benefit of a weather pattern that gives Seychelles 365 days of summer every year, and the connotation of being the islands of perpetual summer, we have a unique flora and fauna and therefore we attract from bird watchers, to botanists, to scuba divers and snorkelling enthusiasts, to bush walks fanatics, sailing, boating, island hoping holiday makers, culinary tourism, cruise tourism and more. Seychelles has even been listed in the arena for sports tourism and more recently in medical tourism since the arrival of modern privately run dialysis centres. Seychelles welcomes couples, families, single travellers and members from the gay tourism world. Handicaps or religious groups are also all welcomed for a dream holiday in our mid-ocean islands where colour of the skin, religious beliefs, political affiliation plays no part on how we welcome you in paradise” St.Ange said.

The former Seychelles Minister who publishes his own weekly tourism report (Saint Ange Report) and runs his own tourism consultancy (Saint Ange Consultancy) nevertheless spoke with passion about the island’s tourism industry saying that Seychelles has the best in five star properties as it has unique and exceptional ‘one island – one hotel’ properties, but is also has a range of three and four star properties and a number of small ‘home grown’ Seychellois properties in villages and districts right around the islands which raises the question if Seychelles is being visible enough with what it has on offer.

“Tourism for All should be pushing Seychelles to have a solid stock of hotel rooms to serve its tour operator partners and to guarantee a continuous airline service that provides seamless connections to the tourism source markets. Tourist needs have changed, and expectations continue to change as well. A number of past visitors are now returning on holidays to Seychelles as families and these trips include kids, parents, and grandparents. It is known that this travel group has been a dominant force in the industry for the last few years. A lot about travel continues to change. Seychelles today has Long Haul flights with but one stop and those that are direct and non-stop which are being more sought after. Seychelles operates through three Middle East Hubs (Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha) and two African Hubs (Addis Ababa and Nairobi). On the other side of the equation airlines like British Airways, CONDOR, Edelweiss, Austrian Airline and JOON of Air France are offering direct non-stop service to the UK and to Europe but they all have one thing in common, they all need passenger load to ensure continuity. Some airlines to Seychelles has three travel class (first, business and economy) and others provide Business and Economy only. Regionally Air Seychelles and Air Austral link the islands to India, South Africa, Mauritius and Reunion” Alain St.Ange said.

“The future of Seychelles Tourism remains on the recognition or appreciation of Seychellois who are in the industry and who are key drivers of the industry. The call for Seychellois to claim back its tourism industry will have no meaning if Seychellois are marginalised. It is Seychellois who will defend the industry and help the country to consolidate its tourism industry. They are the country’s partners and they are here to stay. Seychelles needs more than ever before to ensure the local operators are treated as assets for the industry and respected accordingly The foreign investors will benefit and they will feel safer with their investments more secured when their Seychellois counterparts are happy and contented.” St.Ange said.

Future of tourism looking positive, says Minister Najib Balala of Kenya

Former Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) CEO, Muriithi Ndegwa disclosed that an increase in visitor numbers and emergence of new international flights that have started flying into Kenya are all clear pointers of a resurgent industry.

”The world loves Magical Kenya, and this love story is getting better as the country embraces diversity in tribe, race and religion. We are seeing increased interest in destination Kenya as investors in the hospitality sector set up base here,” Muriithi who is now the CEO/ Managing Director of Kenya Institute of Management (KIM) said.He added that Kenya has opened her doors to business people, expatriates, investors and tourists from all over the world. Ndegwa added that the future looks promising, especially in the tourism sector where an increase in visitor numbers automatically translates to more revenue and a boost to the economy.

In 2017, earnings from the industry grew by 20 per cent to KSh120 billion despite a tense political environment, the highest earnings recorded by the sector this decade.Mid this year, the country received positive visibility and endorsement through global accolades such as World Travel Awards’ declaration of Kenya as the world’s best Safari destination.”Kenya prides itself as one of the few countries in the world where a visitor can spot all the Big 5 – the African animals that early days’ big game hunters considered most difficult to hunt on foot,” Ndegwa explained.When visiting Kenya, most tourists come with ‘the Big 5’ checklist and failure to spot even one animal spells a disappointment.The KIM Executive said tha Kenya’s tourism sector growth is a clear indicator that the destination is unrivalled.

He said that at the 25th edition of the annual World Travel Awards (WTM) Africa and Indian Ocean region grand finale held in Durban South Africa in September 2018, feted Diani as Africa’s leading beach destination and Masai Mara the leading National Park in 2018.

UNWTO chief: Growth of African Tourism as industry remains resilient

The festive season in Africa also marks the highest season in the tourism industry, as demand for getaway destinations in the continent surges. According to a Hospitality Report Africa – 2018/19, IATA’s most popular airline destinations in Africa in terms of traffic are South Africa, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Nigeria, Tunisia, Kenya, Ethiopia, Mauritius and Tanzania respectively. These being just among other African countries favorited by tourists not only during Christmas seasons but also throughout the year; for their exotic and relaxing nature. Magnificent sceneries, wild and untouched nature for remarkable safaris and inestimable coastlines, Africa is indeed a favorable tourism destination. In the report by Jumia Travel, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Secretary General Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, on the growth of African tourism.

South Male Atoll ( Maldives) – December 29, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Ushering in the new year with a bright contemporary look, Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort unveils luxuriously refurbished beach villas. Nestled in lush foliage along silvery shores, the updated beach villas retain the resort’s relaxed beach ambiance, now with a refreshed palette of sophisticated neutral tones that reflect the island’s natural hues.

All beach villa types have undergone a striking transformation. Darker timbers have been lightened with soft ivory and beige, brightening interiors and creating a refined beach-house vibe with infusions of tropical charm.

Book your luxury Anantara island resort in the Maldives and around the world at best rates available. Pay at the hotel. Book now at HotelWorlds.com and earn HolidayClicks Points for every dollar spend!

Bathrooms have also been rejuvenated to offer sleek indoor and outdoor spaces. Guests can sink into a deep oval tub in their courtyard garden, or retreat to the cool of a glassed-in air-conditioned area. On each villa terrace, a traditional Maldivian swing has also been added, lending an authentic touch of local culture, and inviting guests to enjoy balmy island breezes in their own private sanctuary.

Aside from the visual transformation, villas also feature modernised amenities to reduce energy requirements, in line with Anantara’s sustainability goals.

To experience an idyllic Maldivian holiday immersed in contemporary island style, guests can choose from Sunrise Beach Villas, Sunset Beach Villas, Anantara Pool Villas, Sunset Pool Villas, Two-Bedroom Family Villas and Two-Bedroom Anantara Pool Villas.

Book your luxury Anantara island resort in the Maldives and around the world at best rates available. Pay at the hotel. Book now at HotelWorlds.com and earn HolidayClicks Points for every dollar spend!

About Anantara
Anantara is a luxury hospitality brand for modern travellers, connecting them to genuine places, people and stories through personal experiences, and providing heartfelt hospitality in the world’s most exciting destinations. The collection of distinct, thoughtfully designed luxury hotels and resorts provides a window through which to journey into invigorating new territory, curating personal travel experiences.

From cosmopolitan cities to desert sands to lush islands, Anantara connects travellers to the indigenous, grounds them in authentic luxury, and hosts them with passionate expertise. The portfolio currently boasts over 35 stunning properties located in Thailand, the Maldives, Indonesia, Vietnam, China, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Mozambique, Zambia, the UAE, Qatar, Oman and Portugal, with a pipeline of future properties across Asia, the Indian Ocean, Middle East, Africa and South America. The brand’s premier vacation ownership programme, Anantara Vacation Club, extends the opportunity to own a share in the Anantara experience with a portfolio of 8 luxurious Club Resorts as well as travel privileges at partner resorts and hotels worldwide.

Madrid (Spain) – December 27, 2018 (travelindex.com) – The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), together with the European Travel Commission (ETC) launched a new report on health tourism. Part of their joint research programme, the study is the first attempt to set a coherent conceptualization of health tourism and define the motivations behind travellers looking for health-related services.

Health, wellness and medical tourism have grown exponentially in recent years to become increasingly relevant in many destinations. Health tourism is an emerging, global, complex and rapidly changing segment that needs to be better understood by destinations willing to leverage opportunities and better address challenges.

‘Exploring Health Tourism’ proposes a comprehensive taxonomy with a consistent terminology to define and describe the intricate system of travelling for health purposes and provides a practical toolkit for National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) and Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) wanting to develop health tourism.

As defined in the report, health tourism covers those types of tourism which have as a primary motivation the contribution to physical, mental and/or spiritual health through medical and wellness-based activities.

The report sheds light on the factors shaping health tourism such as technological developments, personal health, data protection and urbanization. It also explores the market, the demand and the supply of health tourism and provides examples of marketing management. Finally, the study proposes a set of recommendations ranging from improved data collection and more accurate measurement to more accessible and sustainable health tourism calling for further partnerships.

Contacts:
UNWTO Communications Department
Tel: (+34) 91 567 8100
Fax: +34 91 567 8218
Email: comm@unwto.org

Bangkok (Thailand) – December 24, 2018 (travelindex.com) – More than just a buffet, The Sukhothai Bangkok’s Sunday Brunch is a palate-dazzling showcase of world cuisine! Our legendary Sunday Brunch at Colonnade restaurant is about to become an even more important part of Bangkok’s top culinary landscape. Prepare yourself for an even better Sunday Brunch as our Executive Chef Thitisorn Amatasin and his talented team revamp, revitalize and heighten the excitement of the brunch menu. Savour the very best, from classic to contemporary.

Choose from an amazing selection, ranging from delectable seafood, lobster, giant Alaskan king crab, 7-types of oysters, sushi, sashimi and more Japanese specialties, Pan-fried Foie Gras, a fabulous selection of 25-30 varieties of farm house cheeses, including Grilled Caciocavallo cheese on Bruschetta, plus live cooking stations including roasted Wagyu prime rib and weekly rotation choices. We are also adding some fun with a cooking theatre – a two round show from the chef team, giving you the opportunity to learn and remember the techniques that they are more than happy to disclose to all diners.

Finally, make sure you leave enough room for dessert, as the offerings from Pastry Chef Laurent Ganguillet are simply irresistible, with his A la Minute Tiramisu and Crepes Suzette for example, the entire experience being totally memorable … You will definitely be back for more.

Every Sunday – Brunch served from 12:00 to 15:00 hrs at Baht 3,000++ per person.

Free-flow beverage packages are also available for your selection including champagne, wine, cocktails and soft drinks.

For Sunday Brunch booking, please call +66 (0) 2344 8888 or email to promotions@sukhothai.com

About The Sukhothai Bangkok
210-room The Sukhothai Bangkok is a multi-award winning member of Design Hotels network. As one of Thailand’s most luxurious accommodation experiences, its ancillary facilities include the Spa Botanica, a limousine fleet, a gym and a 25-metre outdoor swimming pool. Modern meeting spaces and superb culinary encounters combine to produce one of the finest hospitality brands in the Kingdom www.sukhothai.com