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MSC Bellissima to offer new Middle East trips

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 31, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Cruise.

January 31, 2022 – MSC Cruises has announced that the current season in the Gulf will be extended with MSC Bellissima offering additional seven-night cruises.

MSC Bellissima to offer new Middle East trips

The trips, calling at Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sir Bani Yas in the United Arab Emirates and Doha in Qatar, will be on offer from April through to the end of June.

MSC Bellissima will finish her planned Red Sea itineraries homeporting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on March 26th and then move to the Gulf taking over from MSC Virtuosa from April 2nd.

MSC Virtuosa has been sailing in this region since November and on finishing the winter season, will undertake a Grand Voyage back to Europe to homeport in Southampton, UK for the summer season.

In July, MSC Bellissima will move to the Far East from July to perform her itineraries in Japan and China.

Sales for the additional MSC Bellissima cruises opened today.

Gianni Onorato, chief executive, MSC Cruises, commented: “We have seen that the itineraries in the UAE and Qatar have been very popular with our guests and so to respond to this demand we have decided to extend our presence in the region.

“We would like to thank the authorities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha for their close collaboration and effective ways of working to ensure the health and safety of our guests and crew.

“The decision to deploy MSC Bellissima for this extended part of the season was taken because this is a highly popular and well appreciated ship with a richness of features, entertainment and dining as well as offering the MSC Yacht Club.

“These cruises are also appealing as they are very accessible to our guests thanks to the great flight connections into Dubai International Airport.”

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Emirates rebuilds Africa network with five returning routes

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 31, 2022. Posted in Airline, Destination news.

January 31, 2022 – Emirates has confirmed it will resume passenger operations between Dubai and five African countries.

Emirates rebuilds Africa network with five returning routes

The restoration of services will include Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; Dar El Salaam, Tanzania; Nairobi, Kenya; Harare, Zimbabwe; as well as Emirates’ three South African gateways Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.

Customers flying in and out of Emirates’ African gateways can safely connect to Dubai and to an array of onwards connections to Europe, Middle East, the Americas, west Asia and Australasia.

Flights between Dubai and South Africa will operate to and from Johannesburg, on a double daily basis, from February 1st.

Flights to and from Cape Town and Durban will operate daily from tomorrow.

Emirates is also operating ten weekly flights to Nairobi, while flights to Addis Ababa will operate daily.

The carrier will also operate to Dar Es Salaam, with five flights a week.

Emirates will operate to Harare with six weekly flights, linked to its Lusaka service.

All passengers travelling from Emirates’ African network with Dubai as their final destination require a 48-hour PCR test.

Passengers must present a valid negative Covid-19 PCR test certificate with a QR code for a test conducted at an approved facility, and validity must be calculated from the time the sample was collected.

Upon arrival in Dubai, passengers will undergo an additional Covid-19 PCR test and remain in self-quarantine until the results of the test are received.

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Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum of the Seas arrives early in Singapore on April 11

Written by Traveltalksteam on January 31, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Cruise.

January 31, 2022 – Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum of the Seas:
Holidaymakers can now pack their bags from April 11, 2022 for the ultimate adventure on board Royal Caribbean International’s Spectrum of the Seas, Asia’s largest, newest and most innovative ship, for spectacular 3- to 4-night Ocean Getaways.

Six months sooner than anticipated, guests will enjoy world-class dining, showstopping entertainment, a private enclave for suite guests and state-of-the-art amenities exclusively designed for the Asian market.

Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum of the Seas Sailings are now open for bookings.

“We know that vacation time is precious and choosing how to spend it is more important than ever, which is why we are thrilled to welcome Spectrum of the Seas – one of the most advanced ships in the world, to Singapore in April – making Singapore the cruising destination of choice,” said Angie Stephen, vice president and managing director, Asia-Pacific, Royal Caribbean International.

“We have seen incredible demand for Royal Caribbean cruise holidays in Singapore. Having hosted more than 178,000 Singapore residents since we restarted cruising, bringing Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum of the Seas six months early is truly exciting. The combination of experiences specially designed for the Asian market, together with signature Royal Caribbean favourites on board, will make Spectrum a huge hit.”

Stephen continued, “I would like to thank the Singapore government for their strong partnership and collaboration that have allowed cruising to become one of the safest holiday options in the world. We look forward to continuing to bring the best of the Royal Caribbean experience to holidaymakers.”

“The Asia-Pacific region holds tremendous opportunity for the growth of the cruise industry. The last year provided many Singapore residents the opportunity to try cruising for the first time, and from what we can see, they are hooked.

Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum of the Seas

As we navigate COVID-19 as an endemic, we are confident that holidaymakers around the region will see cruising as an unbeatable adventure-packed holiday option,” said Kenneth Yeo, regional director of sales, Asia-Pacific, Royal Caribbean International.

Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum of the Seas – Guests on board Spectrum can savour an array of Asian-inspired cuisine, such as teppanyaki and hot pot-style dining, a showcase of unparalleled entertainment that touches on the cultures, colour, music and dance styles of Asia; high-tech experiences; and more. Highlights include:

Sky Pad – Asia’s first, this virtual reality, bungee trampoline adventure is where guests can strap in, don a headset and transport themselves to another time and planet.
Suite Enclave – Royal Caribbean’s first and exclusive space for the exquisite Royal Suite Class Star, Sky and Sea accommodations in a private area, featuring exclusive floor access, an elevator, private restaurants and a dedicated lounge area.
Two70 – Boasting stunning 270-degree ocean views by day and transforming into a multidimensional theatre by night, this transformative space flaunts six agile Roboscreens, breathtaking live performers and mind-bending aerialists to create unimaginable visuals.
SeaPlex – The largest indoor active space at sea, featuring bumper cars, laser tag, fencing, archery and more.
Star Moment – A lively and energetic karaoke venue where family and friends come together to belt out and sing like stars.
Family Friendly Accommodations – From exterior balcony staterooms to interconnected rooms, to the signature two-level Ultimate Family Suite, an expansive, multiroom retreat complete with its own slide and cinema that also doubles as a karaoke stage, there’s an array of staterooms designed for the whole family.
Signature Experiences – A bold lineup of guest favourites are on deck, including the FlowRider surf simulator, the North Star, an all-glass observation capsule which ascends 300 feet above the ocean to deliver incomparable 360-degree views; and RipCord by iFly, the first sky diving experience at sea.
A World of Flavours – There are 19 dining options that serve up a variety of cuisines, including Hot Pot, an authentic Chinese dining experience; Teppanyaki, a celebration of Far East flavours cooked in Japan’s traditional teppanyaki style; and Sichuan Red, a new specialty dining experience tailored just for Spectrum, where diners can savour a bold tapestry of spices and Sichuan flavours. Signature classics include imaginative cuisine at Wonderland, American steakhouse Chops Grille and authentic rustic fare and handmade pasta at Jamie’s Italian.

In line with its Royal Promise and regulations stipulated by the Singapore government, Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum of the Seas continues to implement health and safety measures for the well-being of its guests and crew members, and the destinations it visits. The comprehensive, multilayered set of measures include pre-departure wellness screenings and testing, contactless embarkation and debarkation, enhanced ventilation and sanitization on board, as well as sailing with fully vaccinated crew members and guests. The cruise line will continue to evaluate and update its measures as circumstances evolve with various government and health authorities.

Guests who book their vacation on Spectrum on or before March 31, 2022, can be assured of flexibility in their plans with Royal Caribbean’s Cruise with Confidence program, which allows for changes and cancellations up to 48 hours before their cruise sets sail. As long as holidaymakers cancel at least 48 hours before their sail date, they will receive a Future Cruise Credit. The credit is valid for future bookings on or before Sept. 30, 2022, for sailings departing before Dec. 31, 2022, or one year from the original sailing date, whichever is later.

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Qatar Airways increase flights from Dublin

Qatar Airways new 4 weekly flights to Nigeria

Written by Traveltalksteam on January 31, 2022. Posted in Airline, Destination news.

January 31, 2022 – Qatar Airways new 4 weekly flights to Nigeria:

Doha, Qatar – Qatar Airways is boosting its service to Nigeria with the launch of four weekly flights to Kano (KAN) on 02 March 2022, and three weekly flights to Port Harcourt (PHC) on 03 March 2022, both operating via the Nigerian capital, Abuja.

The airline currently operates two daily flights to Lagos and four times a week to Abuja, which will expand to a daily service in March.

Qatar Airways new 4 weekly flights to Nigeria: Kano and Port Harcourt will become the seventh and eight new African gateways launched by Qatar Airways since the start of the pandemic. Both routes will be served by the state-of-the-art Boeing 787 Dreamliner, featuring 22 seats in Business Class and 232 in Economy Class.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker said: “The airline was one of the few to keep operating to many African destinations throughout the pandemic and, as restrictions are lifted, is continuing to expand its network on the continent. As home to the largest economy and population in the region, we see tremendous growth potential for travel and trade in Nigeria. It is a key market and an important part of our African growth strategy; the expansion of our presence across two new gateways is a testament to our continuous commitment to Nigeria.

“We anticipate good reciprocal demand between Port Harcourt, UK, USA and destinations across Asia. For Kano we see the opportunity to grow traffic to and from markets such as KSA and India, as well as strong cargo prospects.”

As travel restrictions ease, Qatar Airways is restoring its services to all its African destinations. When Kano and Port Harcourt flights start operating, the airline will provide 188 weekly flights to 28 destinations in Africa. Qatar Airways African customers will also benefit from generous baggage allowances, which provide for up to 46kg in Economy Class split over two pieces and 64kg split over two pieces in Business Class.

A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways was recently announced as the ‘Airline of the Year’ at the 2021 World Airline Awards, managed by the international air transport rating organisation, Skytrax. It was also named ‘World’s Best Business Class’, ‘World’s Best Business Class Airline Lounge’, ‘World’s Best Business Class Airline Seat’, ‘World’s Best Business Class Onboard Catering’ and ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’. The airline continues to stand alone at the top of the industry having won the main prize for an unprecedented sixth time (2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2021).

Qatar Airways has also become the first global airline in the world to achieve the prestigious 5-Star COVID-19 Airline Safety Rating by Skytrax. This follows the success of Hamad International Airport (HIA) as the first airport in the Middle East and Asia to be awarded a Skytrax 5-Star COVID-19 Airport Safety Rating. These awards provide assurance to passengers across the world that the airline’s health and safety measures are subject to the highest possible standards of professional, independent scrutiny and assessment. For full details of all the measures that have been implemented on board and at HIA, please visit qatarairways.com/safety.

Qatar Airways new 4 weekly flights to Nigeria:

Flight schedule (all times local):

Kano (KAN) – Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday

Doha (DOH) to Abuja (ABV) QR1431 departs: 01:45 arrives: 07:20

Abuja (ABV) to Kano (KAN) QR1431 departs: 08:50 arrives: 09:50

Kano (KAN) to Abuja (ABV) QR1432 departs: 18:35 arrives 19:35

Abuja (ABV) to Doha (DOH) QR1432 departs: 21:05 arrives 05:15 (+1)

Port Harcourt (PHC) – Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday

Doha (DOH) to Abuja (ABV) QR1433 departs: 01:45 arrives: 07:20

Abuja (ABV) to Port Harcourt (PHC) QR1433 departs: 08:50 arrives: 10:00

Port Harcourt (PHC) to Abuja (ABV)) QR1434 departs: 18:25 arrives 19:35

Abuja (ABV) to Doha (DOH) QR1434 departs: 21:05 arrives 05:15 (+1)

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Four Seasons new hotels – expansion in 2021 and 2022

Written by Traveltalksteam on January 31, 2022. Posted in Hotel, Destination news.

January 31, 2022 – Four Seasons new hotels: Four Seasons is building on the momentum of its successful 2021 openings in strategic markets, including in Napa Valley, California; New Orleans, Louisiana; and Taormina, Italy.

The company continues to accelerate expansion plans worldwide with four openings planned for 2022, including exciting new developments in Tamarindo, Mexico; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Nashville, Tennessee; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. Along with the accelerated pace of new openings, the high valuations and increasing demand for existing Four Seasons properties managed on behalf of owners speaks to the strength of the Four Seasons brand.

Four Seasons new hotels:

Four Seasons has more than 50 new projects under planning or development, including in Italy, Spain, China, Japan, Colombia, Belize and across key markets in the US, all of which will add to the company’s existing portfolio of 122 hotels and resorts and 48 residential properties in 47 countries around the world.

“Four Seasons has a strong, strategic growth trajectory – an extensive pipeline of projects that will open in key global destinations, with visionary development partners who share our commitment to excellence,” says Bart Carnahan, President, Global Business Development and Portfolio Management, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.

“Our residential business in particular is a key pillar in our growth plans, with a five-year pipeline of USD 7 billion in gross sales value comprising more than 30 projects worldwide.”

Carnahan continues: “Our continued growth in residential, and the Four Seasons new hotels, a space in which we’ve been a leader since 1985, speaks to our deep understanding of the luxury consumer – those who want to live and experience the Four Seasons lifestyle. With our development partners, we continue to capitalise on the right opportunities in markets that are relevant to luxury consumers, elevating our residential offering and ensuring that Four Seasons is the address of choice in every location where we operate.”

New standalone Private Residences, developments not connected to a hotel or resort, set to open in the coming years include Four Seasons Private Residences Dubai at Jumeirah – a project that fully sold out before public sales began – Four Seasons Private Residences Lake Austin and Four Seasons Private Residences Marrakech at M Avenue.

These new standalone developments join the company’s current collection in London, San Francisco and Los Angeles. Other upcoming residential developments connected to an existing or soon-to-open Four Seasons property include Fort Lauderdale, Minneapolis, Nashville, Mumbai, Cartagena and Belize.

Four Seasons new hotels

As Four Seasons extends its portfolio globally, the company does so with consideration for Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) priorities. Four Seasons is committed to sustainable hospitality, including reducing carbon emissions, conserving water, eliminating waste, and sourcing responsibly.

To further its commitments to address waste and protect local ecosystems, the company aims to remove all single-use plastic from the guest experience by the end of 2022. Four Seasons has a long history of employee care, community support and philanthropy. Central to Four Seasons employee experience and social impact programming is the company’s commitment to supporting cancer research, and the advancement of diversity, inclusion, equality and belonging at Four Seasons corporate offices and properties worldwide.

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Wizz Air further develops position at Gatwick

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 28, 2022. Posted in Airline, Destination news.

January 28, 2022 – Wizz Air will launch four new routes to its London Gatwick base from Burgas, Varna, Venice and Palermo this spring.

Wizz Air further develops position at Gatwick

At the same time, the carrier has increased frequencies on the recently announced new routes to Larnaca, Milan and Vienna.

The announcement follows the acquisition of 15 daily slot pairs at Gatwick and the launch of 14 new routes from spring onwards.

This further expansion means that Wizz Air will be operating a total of 25 routes for the summer season.

The expansion at the airport, combined with the decision to adjust the airport slots usage ratio to 70:30 for the summer 2022 season, reinforces Wizz’s intention to fully utilise these slots at maximum capacity and demonstrates the airlines’ long-term commitment to the airport and surrounding region.

From March, Wizz Air will fly five times a week to Venice, and from March 29th, will fly twice weekly to Palermo, the capital of the Italian island of Sicily.

From June 13th, the carrier will launch five flights a week to the seaside resort of Varna in Bulgaria, and from June 15th, will fly four times a week to Burgas, a large port city on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast.

Not only is Wizz Air launching an additional four new routes, the airline is also increasing the frequency of its flights to Larnaca, Milan and Vienna from daily to twice daily on most days.

From the end of March, all of Wizz Air’s flights from Italy to London will be operating into London Gatwick, providing excellent, low-fare connectivity for passengers between the two countries.

Marion Geoffroy, managing director of Wizz Air UK, said: “Today marks another important step in our continued expansion at Gatwick, following the announcement of our acquisition of new slots at the airport.

“We have continued to call for the full reinstatement of the original 80:20 slot usage rules and welcome the government’s recent decision to adjust the ratio to 70:30, so we can continue to take up new market opportunities and provide even more low-fare opportunities for our customers, supporting the recovery of the aviation sector, associated industries, and local economies.”

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Morocco to reopen borders next week

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 28, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Travel Advice.

January 28, 2022, Officials in Morocco have confirmed a ban on international flights will be lifted on February 7th.

Morocco to reopen borders next week

The decision follows “the evolution of the epidemiological situation in the kingdom,” a statement said, adding that entry requirements for visitors would be announced at a later date.

All flights into the country were initially halted in late November as the first reports of the Omicron variant of Covid-19 spread around the world.

Flights from the UK had been suspended in October.

An official statement added: “This decision comes in accordance with the legal provisions relating to the management of the state of health emergency and following the recommendations of the scientific and technical commission and taking into consideration the evolution of the epidemiological situation in the kingdom.”

A mechanism had been in place for Moroccan citizens to travel home – but that was ended in December.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice for Morocco said: “When flights resume you will need to provide proof that you have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19, with the second dose administered at least two weeks prior to travel, and a negative PCR test result before boarding your flight or ferry to Morocco.

“The result must show that the PCR test itself was undertaken no more than 48 hours before boarding.

“For travel by ferry, you will also need to take a Covid-19 test during the journey.

“Children under the age of six years old are exempt from the PCR testing requirement for entry into Morocco.”

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Radisson Collection lands in Germany

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 28, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

January 28, 2022 –This newly redesigned flagship scheme has started welcoming guests into a stylish space in Berlin-Mitte.

Radisson Collection lands in Germany

A milestone opening for Radisson

Radisson Hotel Group has kicked off 2022 with the launch of Germany’s inaugural Radisson Collection-branded hotel – Radisson Collection Hotel, Berlin.

This debut follows an extensive 12-month renovation involving the redesign of all guestrooms and a new look for its lobby, bar and restaurant spaces. The property’s famous Aquadom, which is the largest freestanding cylindrical aquarium in the world with 1,600 tropical fish, has also been enhanced but remains the centrepiece of the lobby.

Berlin Brandenburg Airport is easily accessible from the hotel, either by train or taxi.

“After an extensive creative design process and all the hard work that was put into creating our German flagship hotel, we are excited to launch Radisson Collection Hotel, Berlin,” said Oliver Staas, general manager of the hotel. “The hotel’s unparalleled location on the river right in the centre of Berlin-Mitte, the new interior design with its close attention to detail and our signature Radisson Collection service level will make this hotel a fixture in the five-star hotel market in Berlin.”

Suitable for business and leisure

In total, the hotel houses 427 guestrooms and suites across six floors. Each room is decorated in wooden, grey and plum tones, with decorative accessories and artwork featured throughout. The bathrooms pair the same dark wood tones with white marble.

Several rooms come with private balconies overlooking the Spree and the city itself, including the 101 sq m sixth-floor Nikolai Suite, which boasts a living room, dining room with kitchenette and bathroom with whirlpool tub.

The hotel’s Atrium Bar then provides a place for guests to meet beneath the AquaDom, with coffee and cake served by day along with expertly crafted cocktails, some highlighting locally produced spirits, and small dishes showcasing ingredients by local suppliers.

Adding to this dining experience, Balaustine Restaurant will open as the hotel’s main dining venue in March 2022. Diners can expect to enjoy the flavours of the Levant, alongside cocktails inspired by the Middle East, in a space also encompassing an appealing terrace.

Additional amenities include Heaven Spa with its Finnish sauna, training equipment and indoor pool.

Last but not least, events are hosted in 2,750 sq m of meeting space spanning 15 multifunctional rooms across three floors, with the DomLounge located beneath a glass roof providing panoramic views. Altogether, the event space’s foyer and meeting rooms can accommodate up to 550 delegates.

source: tophotel

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Royal Lancaster launches new Royal Nuad Thai spa

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 28, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

January 28, 2022 – New for January, Royal Lancaster has launched Royal Nuad Thai, a sanctuary in the heart of London.

Royal Lancaster launches new Royal Nuad Thai spa

This little oasis, hidden away on the third floor of the hotel, “is the most authentic experience of a Thai spa treatment outside of Thailand,” says the hotel.

With three beautiful, fully-equipped treatment rooms, each with their own shower and bathroom, aptly named after Thai flowers, Lotus, Jasmine and Hibiscus.

Ahead of any treatment, guests receive a traditional foot ritual of scented warm water and a natural foot scrub, and all treatments are finished with a session in the relaxation room, including a warming cup of lemongrass water to help flush toxins.

This haven offers a sense of calm for guests and visitors alike, to rejuvenate in a place of serenity.

In true Thai tradition, this beautifully relaxing space offers a holistic treatment menu featuring a curated collection of massage and beauty treatments, including signature Thai massages, relaxing oil Thai massages and pregnancy massages.

The Thai massages are performed by expertly trained masseuses and offer an equally energising, yet rejuvenating experience.

With a combination of massage, stretching and assisted yoga postures, guests are led through a series of movements to ensure the ultimate feeling of relaxation.

source: breakingtravelnews

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Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort reopens after renovations

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 28, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

January 28, 2022 – Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort & Offshore Island has welcomed its first guests following a $55 million dollar renovation.

Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort reopens after renovations

The reopening is the first of a series of milestones in this commemorative 40th anniversary year for the Sandals Resorts brand.

Situated on 15 sprawling acres, the 404-room Sandals Royal Bahamian embraces the easy-going spirit of the Bahamas from the pastel pink of the flamingo to the vibes of traditional Junkanoo.

From basking in new beachfront swim-up butler and club level suites to trying new culinary concepts at a choice of 13 restaurants, guests can enjoy a combination of authenticity and luxury at Sandals Royal Bahamian.

“The new Sandals Royal Bahamian encompasses a new era in travel, inviting our guests in love to connect with the vibrant culture, natural wonders and authentic traditions of the beautiful Bahamas — and in turn, reconnect with each other,” said Sandals Resorts executive chairman, Adam Stewart.

The new Island Village is comprised of standalone villas named after remote Bahamian cays, which represent the provincial Bahamas in pink, blue and white accents with striped awnings.

Butler villa suites each have private pools and outdoor Tranquility Soaking Tubs.

The refreshed East and West Bay accommodations offer a dynamic array of room and suite categories, including beachfront butler suites in the east bay, where a new infinity swim-up pool ends where the sand begins.

Deserted beaches and colourful coral reefs await guests at the resort’s secluded private island, Sandals Barefoot Cay, located just one mile from the shore.

Couples can sail aboard the resort’s new Love Runner boat and spend the day reconnecting on the quiet shores featuring a pool bar with swings, an infinity-edge jacuzzi, outdoor shower and new restaurant, Aralia House – serving up fresh seafood and authentic Caribbean delicacies.

source: breakingtravelnews

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Wynn Resorts signs on for huge Ras al Khaimah project

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 27, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

January 27, 2022 – Marjan, RAK Hospitality and Wynn Resorts have announced a multi-billion-dollar integrated resort development on the man-made Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates.

Wynn Resorts signs on for huge Ras al Khaimah project

The Al Marjan Island, already a leading tourism destination, is only 15 minutes from the Ras Al Khaimah International Airport and 45 minutes from the Dubai International Airport.

Comprising four islands, Al Marjan Island welcomes visitors with over 7.8 kilometres of sparkling beaches and 23 kilometres of waterfront in addition to world-class hotels and residential developments.

Al Marjan Island spans an area of 2.7 million sqm of reclaimed land extending into the Arabian Gulf.

The new integrated resort on one of the exclusive islands, which covers an area of almost 250,000 sqm, will offer a pristine setting with spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf as well as sandy beaches and a marina.

The development is the first beach resort being developed by Wynn Resorts globally.

The current scope includes a circa 1,000 room hotel, high-end shopping mall, a state-of-the-art meeting and convention facility, an exclusive spa, more than ten restaurants and lounges, a wide array of entertainment choices, a gaming area, and other amenities.

Craig Billings, newly appointed chief executive of Wynn Resorts, said: “Al Marjan Island is a pristine setting and an ideal greenfield location for us to create the one-of-a-kind guest experiences for which Wynn Resorts is renown.

“The region offers tremendous potential for the hospitality and tourism industry, and we are excited about the prospect of developing an integrated resort in Ras Al Khaimah.”

The new resort is in the initial stages of design and development and will be applying for an integrated resort licence from Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority.

source: breakingtravelnews

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Exciting Direct Flight from Paris to Orlando 2025

Air France’s ‘Ready to Fly’ service rolling out to Canadian routes

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 27, 2022. Posted in Airline, Destination news.

January 27, 2022 – Air France’s rollout of its ‘Ready To Fly’ service is now available on Air France flights to Paris from Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver and starting May 17, Air France’s new flights from Québec City.

Air France’s ‘Ready to Fly’ service rolling out to Canadian routes

With ‘Ready To Fly’, Air France passengers can have their travel documents checked prior to their flight.

The service is now available on 140 routes and 600 daily Air France flights.

Air France launched Ready To Fly in July 2021 as a free and optional service providing customers confirmation that they have the required health documents for their trip before arriving at the airport.

Passengers gain greater peace of mind and a more seamless travel experience, by avoiding multiple checks on the day of departure, says the airline.

Ready To Fly is being progressively deployed throughout the Air France network. It is currently available on more than 140 routes on departure from 80 airports, representing more than 600 daily flights including …

Flights to France on departure from Europe and Canada
All domestic flights in France and to/from Corsica and French Overseas Department
Flights to/from the United States, Argentina, Chile and Brazil
Flights from France to Germany, Spain, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Gabon and Senegal

Air France’s Ready to Fly service also automates the French vaccine pass verification on domestic flights. The vaccine pass became mandatory on domestic flights in France for passengers aged 16 and over as of Jan. 24, 2022.

To reduce the time required to process the submitted documents, Air France is replacing the manual verification of the vaccine pass with an automated check, ensuring customers travelling in France receive instant confirmation.

The airline says this feature is available a few days before departure, in the same way as with any other Ready To Fly document verification process – customers receive an email from Air France inviting them to upload their vaccine pass on a secure online platform.

Customers who have not used the pre-validation service can alternatively scan the QR code of their vaccine pass during check-in at a self-service kiosk at the airport on the day of departure. This service is currently available at Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Paris-Orly, Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille, Montpellier, Mulhouse, Nantes, Nice, Strasbourg and Toulouse. This feature will be integrated in the online check-in process in the coming months.

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EasyJet Receives IATA Environmental Accreditation

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 27, 2022. Posted in Airline, Destination news.

January 27, 2022 – Low-cost carrier EasyJet has received Stage 1 accreditation from the International Air Transportation Association Environmental Assessment program, the carrier announced. It is the first non-IATA member to participate in the environmental management accreditation process, according to EasyJet.

EasyJet Receives IATA Environmental Accreditation

The program is voluntary and aims to help organizations identify, manage, monitor and control their environmental issues “in a holistic manner.” It commits organizations to compliance with environmental obligations and to continually improve their environmental performance, according to the carrier.

EasyJet plans to work toward Stage 2 certification for this year. In 2021, the airline committed to reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and setting an interim science-based target for 2035.

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Banyan Tree launches Homm brand with Phuket property

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 27, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

January 27, 2021 – The Homm brand is up and running with the arrival of the beachfront Homm Bliss Southbeach Patong.

Banyan Tree launches Homm brand with Phuket property

A new Banyan Tree concept

Homm – a new Banyan Tree Group concept providing guests with a sense of home through reliable services, signature facilities and well-designed accommodation at affordable rates – has made its debut. It’s one of five new brands encompassed within Banyan Tree Group’s growing portfolio, alongside Garrya, Folio, Banyan Tree Escape and Banyan Tree Veya.

The Homm flag aims to cater for families, couples and business customers alike, incorporating destination-specific immersive experiences that engage travellers with the local culture of key second-tier cities.

“With the introduction of our Homm brand, we strive to provide guests with true ‘sense of home’ comforts that act as a basecamp for new experiences and adventures, while simultaneously supporting the local community,” said Chatchaya Jearranai (May), hotel manager of Homm Bliss Southbeach Patong. “Homm Bliss Southbeach Patong’s close proximity to Phuket’s culturally rich attractions and coastal region provides global travellers with the ability to fully engage with locals and foster sustainability and stewardship practices through Banyan Tree Group’s world-renowned Stay for Good programme, a blueprint for future Homm locations to come.”

Launching in Patong

The first hotel in this collection, Homm Bliss Southbeach Patong, accommodates guests in 71 contemporary rooms. Pairing the essence of its setting in Phuket with the hospitality group’s signature service standards, the hotel lies at the southern end of Patong Bay on 1.5 miles of white-sand shoreline with views over the Andaman Sea.

Newly refurbished guestrooms come with contemporary beach-inspired design, and 39 of the 71 rooms also feature sea-facing private balconies or terraces with plunge pools.

The property provides beachfront access and is home to two outdoor pools, the Seagulls on Southbeach dining venue for quick bites, and all-day restaurant Rice Bowl for authentic Thai cuisine.

Each Homm property will advocate for an endangered species through Banyan Tree Group’s Stay for Good programme. The Patong hotel, for example, prominently displays an origami version of the native black-billed gull in its lobby.

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WTTC predicts a strong recovery of the European Travel and Tourism sector in 2022

Written by Traveltalksteam on January 27, 2022. Posted in Destination news.

January 27, 2021 – WTTC predicts a strong recovery of the European Travel and Tourism sector in 2022.

Sector sees a surge of more than 250% in European bookings for Easter compared to 2021

WTTC predicts a strong recovery of the European Travel and Tourism sector in 2022.

WTTC calls to remove all restrictions for fully jabbed travellers and allow free movement

London, UK: The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), which represents the global private Travel & Tourism sector, has revealed bookings for intra-European travel over the Easter period have increased by more than 250%, while summer bookings are currently 80% above 2021 levels.

According to WTTC’s knowledge partner ForwardKeys, the leading travel data and analytics company, intra-European flight bookings for the busy Easter and summer periods have surged ahead of last year, giving a welcome boost to Travel & Tourism businesses across the continent.

During WTTC’s participation at FITUR, the international tourism fair taking place in Madrid this week, the global tourism body gave hope to the struggling sector.

Forward Keys booking data revealed a strong recovery for intra-European travel for Easter and summer, set to increase by more than 250% and 80% compared to 2021, respectively.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Latest booking data shows Europeans are positive about travelling again. Bookings for Easter and summer are looking strong. Omicron has affected the start of the year, but as infections peak and the symptoms remain mild people are booking again.

“The problems occur when governments react with travel restrictions. The World Health Organisation says that closing borders is pointless when Omicron is already prevalent in society. All it does is damage the economy and livelihoods. ‘

“According to latest scientific evidence, although more transmissible, Omicron is less severe and leads to less hospitalisations and deaths. Therefore, we are calling on governments to reduce all travel restrictions and allow fully vaccinated travellers to move freely.

“Spain, that is hosting FITUR, a major Travel & Tourism trade fair, is keeping its borders open and is backing free movement and the economy.”

According to the booking data, intra-European travel during Easter and summer in 2022 is expected to perform below pre-pandemic levels by only 38% and 45% respectively.

However, as countries across the continent continue to relax travel restrictions, early indications show the recovery is gaining momentum and could edge even closer to 2019 levels as we head towards the summer.

In addition, during the first quarter of 2022, intra-European travel has witnessed a 275% surge in bookings, while latest booking data shows that international arrivals to European destinations will see an over 280% increase, compared to the same period in 2021.

Spain is poised to be the most popular destination for European travellers, with intra-European arrivals to Spain during the first quarter of 2022 currently up by 320% (YOY), followed by Turkey.

As travel restrictions continue to ease and consumer confidence continues to grow, the European Travel & Tourism sector should expect an increased demand for travel with a significant boost in bookings in the upcoming months.

In 2019, the global Travel & Tourism sector contributed nearly USD 9.2 trillion to the economy and represented 10.6% of all jobs (334 million).

According to WTTC’s research, in 2020, when the pandemic brought international travel to an almost standstill, 62 million jobs were lost, and the sector’s contribution to the global GDP fell by a staggering US$ 4.5 trillion.

These losses have affected the many millions of livelihoods who rely upon a thriving Travel & Tourism sector, while significantly affecting the global economy and development.

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Air Mauritius flights to Johannesburg – from January 9th flights start again

Written by Traveltalksteam on January 27, 2022. Posted in Airline, Destination news.

January 27, 2022 – Air Mauritius flights to Johannesburg – Resumption of passenger commercial flights from Johannesburg

Air Mauritius flights to Johannesburg

Following the announcement from the authorities of the lifting of travel ban on South Africa, Air Mauritius is resuming its passenger commercial flights from Johannesburg as from Sunday 09 January 2022.

05 weekly flights are scheduled for the month of January 2022 on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays which will be operated by the Airbus A350-900/ A330-900neo aircraft as per the following timings:

MK851/852	Local Timings
MAURITIUS	DEPARTURE	09:15 *
JOHANNESBURG	ARRIVAL	11:50
JOHANNESBURG	DEPARTURE	13:35
MAURITIUS	ARRIVAL	19:35

*Above timings are for flights operated by the Airbus A330-900neo. For flights operated by the Airbus A350-900, the departure from Mauritius is 10 minutes later.
Daily passenger commercial operations to and from Johannesburg have been scheduled as from Tuesday 01 February 2022.
For more details pertaining to travel exigencies to/from Johannesburg, please consult the Air Mauritius website on www.airmauritius.com

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new hotel openings by Hyatt through 2023 in 11 new markets in the Americas

Written by Traveltalksteam on January 27, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

January 27, 2022 – New hotel openings by Hyatt – Leisure Travel Demand Fuels Continued Brand Growth for Hyatt, Including Apple Leisure Group, In the Americas

New hotel openings by Hyatt

By 2023, Hyatt is expected to expand its brand footprint in 11 new leisure markets, in addition to growing its hotel presence in key resort, all-inclusive, and urban destinations.

Hyatt today announced plans to accelerate its brand growth in the Americas region with a strong pipeline of expected hotel openings through 2023.

Fueled by growing leisure travel demand, 45 hotels are expected to join Hyatt’s portfolio of brands, including Apple Leisure Group’s (ALG) AMR^TM Collection brands, in 2022 and 2023 in key resort, all-inclusive and sought-after urban destinations. In addition, Hyatt has signed management and franchise agreements for hotels in 11 new markets and 19 existing markets across the Americas.

“Listening to our guests, World of Hyatt members, and customers has never been more important. As we continue in our recovery from the pandemic, we remain very intentional about where the Hyatt brand footprint grows to ensure we’re present in markets that matter most to the leisure-focused traveler of today and tomorrow,” said Jim Chu, Hyatt’s executive vice president, global franchising and development.

“Our pipeline of new properties signals that Hyatt is well poised to deliver against the demand for more leisure travel experiences in places like Cozumel, Panama City, Punta Cana, and South Beach, and priority urban destinations, including Denver, Montréal, Oakland, and Memphis, which will welcome the first Caption by Hyatt hotel.”

Debuting New Hyatt Brands in New Markets

To continue driving brand awareness and World of Hyatt loyalty program growth, Hyatt expects to thoughtfully expand its brand footprint in the Americas through 2023 in 11 new markets with hotel openings under the Dreams, Hyatt Centric, Hyatt House, Hyatt Place, Hyatt Regency, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, and Thompson Hotels brands. These new destinations will position Hyatt to capture leisure demand in the markets that matter most to guests, loyalty members, and customers. They include:

2022

Dreams Karibana Cartagena Beach & Golf Resort (268 guestrooms) in Cartagena, Colombia
Hyatt Centric Ville-Marie Montréal (177 guestrooms) in Montréal, Québec
Hyatt Centric San Salvador (138 guestrooms) in Antiguo Cuscatlan, El Salvador
Hyatt House Monterrey Valle/San Pedro (91 guestrooms) in Monterrey, Mexico
Hyatt Place Gainesville Downtown (145 guestrooms) in Gainesville, Fla.
Hyatt Place Kent Narrows & Marina (120 guestrooms) in Grasonville, Md.
Hyatt Place Monterrey Valle (133 guestrooms) in Monterrey, Mexico
Hyatt Place Montréal Downtown (354 guestrooms) in Montréal, Québec
Hyatt Place Panama City Beach (224 guestrooms) in Panama City Beach, Fla.
Hyatt Place St. Augustine/Vilano Beach (120 guestrooms) in St. Augustine, Fla.
Hyatt Regency Mexico City Insurgentes (201 guestrooms) in Mexico City, Mexico
Numu (44 guestrooms), which will join The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

2023

Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlan (350 guestrooms) in Mazatlan, Mexico

Expanding Access to Resorts and All-Inclusive Experiences

Leisure travel continues on an upward trajectory with a notable, strong desire for resort and all-inclusive experiences. The end of 2021 and early 2022 showed elevated demand for leisure travel with multiple resorts reaching record RevPAR levels within the United States. Further, with the recent acquisition of ALG, the combined company will offer one of the largest portfolios of luxury all-inclusive resorts in the world and luxury hotels in Mexico and the Caribbean. Through 2023, Hyatt plans to significantly expand its resort and all-inclusive portfolio, which includes the AMR Collection brands Secrets and Dreams, with expected openings across the Americas, including:

2022

Banyan Cay Resort & Golf (190 guestrooms), which will join the Destination by Hyatt hotel portfolio, in West Palm Beach, Fla.
Dreams Cozumel Cape Resort & Spa (154 guestrooms) in Cozumel, Mexico
Hyatt House Lewes / Rehoboth Beach (105 guestrooms) in Lewes, Del.
Hyatt Place Virginia Beach/Oceanfront (140 guestrooms) in Virginia Beach, V.A.
Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico expansion (93 guestrooms) in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico
Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya (291 guestrooms) in Riviera Maya, Mexico
Secrets Impression Playa del Carmen (198 guestrooms) in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen (485 guestrooms) in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Secrets Tulum Resort & Spa (300 guestrooms) in Tulum, Mexico
Rancho Pescadero (103 guestrooms), which will join The Unbound Collection by Hyatt portfolio, in El Pescadero, Mexico

2023

Dreams Grand Island (600 guestrooms) in Cancún, Mexico
Park Hyatt Los Cabos Hotel and Residences (135 guestrooms) in Los Cabos, Mexico
Hyatt Place New Smyrna Beach (114 guestrooms) in New Smyrna Beach, Fla.
Secrets Baby Beach Aruba (600 guestrooms)
Thompson South Beach (150 guestrooms) in South Beach, Fla.

Growing in Urban Destinations

Late 2021 showed strengthening travel demand among urban leisure and drivable destinations. Kicking off 2022 and throughout 2023, Hyatt hotels are expected to open in sought-after city locales across the Americas, including the brand debut and opening of the first Caption by Hyatt hotel in Memphis. They include:

2022

Thompson Austin (229 guestrooms) in Austin, Texas – opened in January 2022
tommie Austin (193 guestrooms), a JdV by Hyatt hotel, in Austin, Texas – opened in January 2022
Caption by Hyatt Beale St. Memphis (136 guestrooms) in Memphis, Tenn.
Hyatt Centric Congress Avenue Austin (246 guestrooms) in Austin, Texas
Hyatt Centric Santa Clara (220 guestrooms) in Santa Clara, Calif.
Hyatt House Sacramento Midtown (133 guestrooms) in Sacramento, Calif.
Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City (700 guestrooms) in Salt Lake City, Utah
Hyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown SOMA (686 guestrooms) in San Francisco – rebranding from Park Central San Francisco
A hotel (120 guestrooms) that will join the JdV by Hyatt portfolio in Middletown, R.I.
Thompson Denver (216 guestrooms) in Denver, Colo.
Hotel La Compañia, Casco Antiguo, Panama (88 guestrooms), which will join The Unbound Collection by Hyatt portfolio, in Panama City, Panama
Kissel Uptown Oakland (168 guestrooms), which will join The Unbound Collection by Hyatt portfolio, in Oakland, Calif.

2023

A hotel (251 guestrooms) that will join the JdV by Hyatt portfolio in Anchorage, Ala.
Hyatt House Lansing/MSU (131 guestrooms) in Lansing, Mich.
Hyatt Place Toronto-Downtown/Jarvis Street (238 guestrooms) in Toronto, Ontario
Thompson Houston (172 guestrooms) in Houston, Texas
A hotel (64 guestrooms) that will join The Unbound Collection by Hyatt portfolio in Hollywood, Calif

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Lotte Hotels receives accolades from ‘Russian Business Travel & MICE Award’

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 26, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

January 26, 2021 –LOTTE Hotels’ successful operation in Russia led to two of its properties’ being recognised with awards in December 2021.

Lotte Hotels receives accolades from ‘Russian Business Travel & MICE Award’ and ‘Leaders of the tourism industry of Primorye’

On 1 December, LOTTE Hotel Samara ranked in ‘the five best regional congress hotels’ at the Russian Business Travel & MICE Award.

The awards are hosted by the influential Russian magazine ‘Business Travel’, which boasts the highest authority in business travel and the MICE industry in Russia. It evaluates each sector in the travel industry, such as hotels, conference halls, travel agencies and airlines. This year, a total of 420 companies in 15 sectors were assessed. The awards were based on evaluations from 100 committee members. consisting of experts in business travel and MICE, as well as an online ballot of over 700,000 votes.

Opened in 2018, LOTTE Hotel Samara is the first five-star hotel in Samara. The hotel is equipped with perfect facilities for business travel, including the biggest presidential suite in the city and 193 guestrooms with art deco-style interiors, overlooking the Volga River and the cityscape. Moreover, among its 14 banquet halls apt for international conferences and business seminars, the Crystal Ball Room can accommodate up to 1,400 guests at a time, which is the biggest in the city.

LOTTE Hotel Vladivostock was also awarded ‘the best five-star business hotel’ from ‘Leaders of the tourism industry of Primorye’ on 23 December.

Going through its 26th year, ‘Leaders of the tourism industry of Primorye’ acknowledges hotels, travel agencies, public enterprises and local governments that contributed in advancing the tourism industry in Vladivostok. The award committee, consisting of experts with unparalleled prestige in the city’s tourism industry, selects the best organisations in each sector.

LOTTE Hotel Vladivostock’s accolade this year follows 2019’s award of ‘the best accommodation facility’. The award acknowledged Lotte Hotel Vladivostock for its contribution to the Russian tourism industry, and this has enhanced the hotel’s brand value.

LOTTE Hotel Vladivostock boasts excellent accessibility, being 50 minutes away by car from Vladivostok International Airport, 20 minutes from the train station, and located in downtown. Apart from the location, the facility, Korean-style hospitality service and customer loyalty were highly assessed.

Meanwhile, LOTTE Hotels is currently operating in four cities in Russia: Samara, Vladivostok, Moscow and St Petersburg. LOTTE Hotel St Petersburg was chosen as the five-star hotel from ‘Forbes Travel Guide’. Moreover, LOTTE Hotel Moscow was accoladed with the ‘Grand Prix of the Best Hotel Service in the World’ at the Villegiature Awards, showing LOTTE Hotels’ reputation in Russia as well as globally.

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Voco St. John’s, London reopens following renovations

Written by Leandro Agostini on January 26, 2022. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

January 26, 2021 – Voco St. John’s, Solihull has reopened following the signing of an exclusive contract and a series of transformative refurbishments.

Voco St. John’s, Solihull reopens following renovations

The property is home to 201-rooms and is the largest conference hotel in the destination.

The 710 square metre Park Suite, which can accommodate up to 800 guests, has undergone a full transformation alongside a refresh of eight of its smaller meeting rooms, within its 1,230 square metres of events space.

The guest rooms, lobby, bar and Brasserie, six5one, were fully remodelled in 2019 to reflect voco vibrant, bold and distinctive interior design.

With 13 different rooms within the events space, the hotel caters to a variety of business and leisure events of all sizes, from small board-meetings, to weddings and conferences of up to 800 guests.

Jane Bowler, general manager at voco St. John’s, Solihull, commented: “We’re delighted to showcase our re-imagined spaces at voco St. John’s, Solihull, offering a warm and inviting place for both hotel guests and our local community.

“We look forward to welcoming you to experience the world of voco here in Solihull.”

Located in the market town of Solihull, the hotel is within walking distance to the town centre and Solihull Train Station which has direct services to London and Birmingham.

The hotel is just five miles from Birmingham Airport and the National Exhibition Centre (NEC).

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Source: breakingtravelnews

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