SAA 2.0 to start flying in September 2021

Written by Gill Dewar on August 27, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Airline, MICE.

South African Airways will resume flights on 23 September, more than 15 months after it was grounded by Covid-19 and business rescue.

The national carrier said that voyager bookings and travel credit voucher redemption will be available from 6 September 2021. The airline will initially operate flights from Johannesburg to Cape Town, Accra, Kinshasa, Harare, Lusaka and Maputo.

More destinations will be added to the route network as it ramps up operations in response to market conditions.

“After months of diligent work, we are delighted that SAA is resuming service and we look forward to welcoming on board our loyal passengers and flying the South African flag. We continue to be a safe carrier and adhering to Covid-19 protocols,” said interim chief executive Thomas Kgokolo.

“There is a profound feeling of enthusiasm within Team SAA as we prepare for takeoff, with one common purpose – to rebuild and sustain a profitable airline that once again takes a leadership role among local, continental, and international airlines.”

Kgokolo said that aviation sector is going through a testing period, and SAA is aware of the tough challenges that lie ahead in the coming weeks.

“As we are now poised for takeoff, we see this as a major milestone for SAA and the country.”

SAA has failed to make a profit for almost a decade, surviving on state bailouts and government debt guarantees, while it was placed under administration a year ago.

The carrier has been lying dormant since March 2020, when the fleet was grounded due to travel bans to contain the Covid-19 coronavirus.

In June 2021, the government agreed to sell a majority stake in the carrier to a local jet-leasing company and private-equity firm.

A consortium comprised of Johannesburg-based Global Airways, which owns recently launched domestic airline Lift, and private-equity firm Harith General Partners will take a 51% shareholding in South African Airways.

The group, Takatso, will invest as much as R3.5 billion over the next three years, Lift co-founder Gidon Novick and Harith chief executive officer Tshepo Mahloele said.

“Government will have no further financial obligations to the company, outside of the existing liabilities that they will settle,” Novick said. “Route networks we are still working on, and it will be a phased rollout based on demand re-emerging post-Covid.”

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Thanda Island, Tanzania – new mermaid will help build up reefs

Written by Gill Dewar on August 27, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Amazing Facts, MICE.

Thanda Island, off the Indian Ocean coast of Tanzania, has introduced an underwater mermaid sculpture that doubles as a tool in the private island’s ongoing marine conservation work, which includes growing and preserving the vulnerable coral reef that surrounds the island.

Created by Antigone Meda, island manager and “Head of Magic” at Thanda Island, the bigger-than-life-size concrete sculpture contributes to an expanding artificial reef that is part of an coral nursery beneath the waves of the Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve about 5 minutes by boat from the resort.

The piece is also the first of many mermaid sculptures that Meda intends to create to symbolize “the wonderful women that work on the Thanda Island team.” Made from environment-friendly concrete and cast in fiberglass molds, the sculpture is named “Rianne” for resident marine biologist Rianne Laan, who created the coral nursery in 2018.

Meda, who joined Thanda Island in 2016 and became island manager two years later, drew inspiration for the sculpture from the underwater artwork of British artist Jason Taylor. She only works on mermaid sculptures at night after her work is over, she said, “so this one took about two years. It was worth it — this was a dream project.”

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10 inspiring travel destinations to visit in 2022

Written by Gill Dewar on August 26, 2021. Posted in Destination news, MICE.

Let’s stop dismissing dreams with “I will go there one day” and finally say ‘yes’ to our desires!

It’s time to explore the charming villages, stunning beaches, and vibrant cities around the world and open your heart to new challenges, experiences, and people. Here is a list of 10 inspiring travel destinations to visit in 2022.

1. New York, USA
There are many reasons to love the New York lifestyle. Think of incredible architectural treasures and attractions, such as Central Park and the Statue of Liberty. New York, the most populous city in the United States, speaks all languages and is suitable for everyone. The city boasts the best international art fairs, fine art exhibitions, numerous art museums, and world-known artists. The fascinating nightlife scene of the Big Apple is also something that you will love at first sight.

2. Scandinavia
You should visit Scandinavia at least because of a number of amazing phenomena created by Mother Nature. You may experience the Midnight Sun, the Polar nights, and the Northern Lights. If you are in the mood for Scandinavian city life, you may feel the metropolitan atmosphere combined with tradition in Scandinavia’s capitals: Copenhagen, Oslo, Stockholm, and Reykjavik. In the warm summer months, check out annual holidays, festivals, and other countless outdoor events happening there quite often.

3. Russia
Russia is undeniably one of the most fascinating destinations to explore on a tour. The country offers the vastness of the diverse landscape. You can discover the beautiful nature of Kamchatka, spot polar bears up in the Arctic Circle, and climb the Altai Mountains. One of the popular tourist routes in Russia is the Golden Ring that includes Rostov Veliky, Vladimir, Sergiev Posad, Yaroslavl, Kostroma, Ivanovo, Suzdal, Pereslavl-Zalessky, and a few small towns. There are plenty of museums, including unusual thematic museums. Besides, it is worth visiting Russian Orthodox churches, as they are a big part of Russian traditions and history. Try your best to comprehend antique Orthodox icons that are a wonderful example of Russian culture.

4. Japan
If you want to feel an effortless blend of the past and present, head for Japan. You will find centuries-old Shinto shrines and calm rock gardens beyond the glassy hotels and modern shopping complexes. Visit some of the many impressive castles and temples around the country. There is a wide range of travel options including subway, train, and bus services to choose from. You will be impressed by the sparkling clean streets and absolutely spotless hotels and restaurants filled with pleasant smells.

5. Greece
Greece is famous for its pristine islands capped with whitewashed buildings. You should visit the Athens Acropolis and climb up to the towering monasteries of Meteora to soak up thousands of years of history. Land on one of Greece’s six thousand islands to unwind, relax, and enjoy yourself in crowd-free villages. Hike volcanoes, explore forests, and taste olives. Venture Greece’s perfect turquoise waters by sailboat. If you are not into extreme sports, you may admire the breath-taking views from the shores of one of the many Greek beaches.

6. Turkey
Turkey attracts people with tall mountains, small idyllic villages, crystal clear waters, and the ruins of ancient empires. Try famous Turkish cuisine that is much more than just baklava and kebab. It is a whole world of desserts, vegetable dishes, huge breakfast spreads, fresh seafood, meze, and more. Antalya, Fethiye, Izmir, and Bodrum boast the most beautiful beaches in Turkey. You may take a special cruise to experience the Mediterranean or Aegean Coast. Fans of being scrubbed, washed, and massaged should try the hamam that is a truly spectacular way to unwind.

7. Croatia
Croatia is a wonderful place with picturesque ports, hundreds of islands, beautiful cultural cities, stunning nature, and over 2,500 hours of sun per year. It is easy enough to reach Croatia comparing to traveling to the Canaries or the majority of the Greek Islands, which is especially important if you are traveling with tiny tots. To run away from the crowds of sunbathing tourists (those are more than enough, as Croatia is famed for its scenic pebbled beaches), rent a boat to enjoy Stiniva Bay. There are also many tours for fans of Game of Thrones. You can visit Trsteno Arboretum (the Garden of Red Keep), Dubrovnik City Walls (King’s Landing City Walls), the Fortress of Kliss (the City of Meereen), and other filming locations.

8. South Africa
Paragliding off of a mountain over a capital city, going Shark Cage Diving, and blokarting down by the beach are just some of South Africa experiences that will spice your life up a bit. You can also go on a safari to see some of the magnificent animals. If you are lucky enough, you can even see penguins right on the beach. The country is also known for its wineries and vineyards, so do not miss the opportunity to take a specialized tour to enjoy tasting menus and, of course, purchase a few bottles of fabulous wine.

9. Italy
From the Colosseum to St. Peter’s Square, ancient history and culture are everywhere in Italy. Visit famous museums to enjoy some of the world’s greatest works of art. For fans of pasta, there are fresh markets and local villas around every turn. Don’t forget about Italian wine that goes perfectly with the food! You should also take some time to explore Italian natural landscapes and the mountains.

10. France
Paris is the city of love, so if you are going to propose, a great idea is to do it in front of the Eiffel Tower. If you choose Chamonix, Val D’Isere, or Courchevel, try the French favorite activity après-ski. Head to the Cannes Film Festival for celebrities spotting or grab your bucket and spade and check out the French Riviera. There is a beach for everyone, from Hyères with the famous Plage de l’Almanarre to Nice.

Choose your next getaway to get yourself excited about traveling again! You deserve it!

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60th ICCA Congress – transformed business events industry – Colombia

Written by Gill Dewar on August 26, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Featured events, MICE.

Travel Event

The 60th Annual ICCA Congress will take the global association meetings industry to Cartagena, Colombia on 24-27 October 2021 with the theme Forward to our Future. The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) Annual Congress is a must-attend event for all involved in international conventions and congresses and this year’s hybrid experience is no different. Delegates are invited to join the Congress in the host city of Cartagena de Indias, a Congress Hub, or on ICCA’s state-of-the-art virtual platform. Registration for the ICCA Congress 2021 is flexible, so delegates can change how they participate at any time.

Setting the stage for future business events
Last year’s ICCA Congress established the Kaohsiung Protocol, a crowdsourced framework identifying major trends and key strategies to enable the international meetings industry to thrive despite the COVID-19 pandemic. The ICCA Congress 2021 will continue the industry’s collaborative approach to overcoming challenges and reinventing business operations. The innovative programme combines best practices for pandemic-safe meetings with the latest research into the future outlook of business events.

“ICCA research has consistently found that the general sentiment about the need for face-to-face events has not only remained, but intensified. Furthermore, while digital and hybrid events have expanded audiences for many organisations, these alternatives cannot supersede the serendipitous moments and truly meaningful connections that are the essence of face-to-face meetings,” said ICCA CEO Senthil Gopinath.

“We’ve been listening closely to the motivations and desires of both our ICCA World and Association Community members. As a result, the ICCA Congress 2021 is an event that we are proud to say has been developed for our members, by our members. Delegates will get first-hand experience with the creative, future-forward strategies that will become standard operations for the successful business events of tomorrow.”

Global community connects in Cartagena
ICCA World is a strong advocate for returning to face-to-face meetings, with both safety and financial efficiency as top priorities. Before the pandemic, business events contributed USD 1.5 trillion to the global GDP and affected nearly 26 million jobs worldwide.

“The economic impact of international business events cannot be overstated,” said Gopinath. “In-person meetings are vital to economic development, local job creation, and knowledge exchange. We are very pleased to be able to bring the 60th ICCA Congress to Cartagena, Colombia as a live event.”

Diana M. Rodriguez, CMP, Cartagena de Indias Convention Center, said: “We are convinced that face-to-face meetings and events drive socio-economic development for destinations. They serve as platforms for knowledge sharing and generating valuable connections that positively impact businesses and professionals alike, well beyond the event itself. That’s why we are ready to welcome ICCA delegates in Cartagena de Indias; to rediscover the true power of meeting again under the magic spell of our legendary and ‘heroic’ city.”

ICCA Congress 2021 delegates who are unable to travel to Colombia will also have the opportunity to meet face-to-face at one of the worldwide Congress Hubs. Confirmed destinations as of the date of this announcement are: Paris, France; Johannesburg, South Africa; and Seoul, South Korea. Congress Hub programmes will livestream key plenary sessions that take place in Cartagena. Delegates will also hear from industry experts and government officials with strong ties to their region and participate in immersive workshops. Each Hub will be infused with the Cartagena experience through themed dinners and social events that deliver a Colombian flair.

Delegates who join the ICCA Congress 2021 digitally will have access to cutting-edge event tech. The virtual platform is as functional as it is impressive. The customised, visual wow-factor will keep delegates plugged-in and maximise their overall event participation. Meanwhile, powerful technology will ensure that the learning and networking components are smoothly executed and impactful.

“No matter where our delegates are, they can fully engage with the Congress programme. They’ll make valuable and profound connections and feel immersed in the event,” said Gopinath. “The future of the international meetings industry is here and we will bring it to the world stage during the ICCA Congress 2021.”

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What is Bleisure Travel?

Written by Gill Dewar on August 26, 2021. Posted in Destination news, MICE.

Travel advice

Bleisure Travel

Bleisure travel is one of the emerging concepts in the travel industry, and its growth has meant a greater focus is now being placed on the needs of the corporate traveller who wants to enjoy some leisure time during their trip.

Bleisure travel is a term used to describe travel which combines elements of both business and leisure. It typically takes the form of business travellers extending the duration of their trip, in order to enjoy leisure activities, which may range from sightseeing and relaxation, through to hiking, visiting entertainment venues, or attending events.

A trip comprised of both business and leisure components may also be known as a ‘bizcation’ and travel of this kind has possible advantages for business travellers, their employers, and those in the travel industry.

For the traveller, the primary advantages are likely to be a boost in morale and a reduction in stress. Allowing bleisure travel may help a business by increasing the number of employees who are actually willing to go away on business trips, while the subsequent morale boost can result in improvements to productivity. Finally, for the travel industry, the rise of the bleisure tourist means visitors who are willing to stay longer and spend more money in the process.

Bleisure Travel is a Growing Market

It is important to understand that spending on business travel is growing year-on-year. In fact, according to information published by Statista, since 2015, business travel spending has grown by between six and seven percent each year. Given the opportunities to attract repeat business, this has made business travellers a top focus for the travel industry.

Moreover, according to Expedia, 43 percent of business trips now include a leisure component. These figures highlight the growth of business travel as a whole and the fact that leisure is becoming a key part of modern business trips.

The Bleisure Traveller Explained

The rise of bleisure travel has understandably led to those in the travel industry placing a focus on who the average bleisure tourist actually is. By better understanding who participates in bleisure travel, hotels, travel agencies, restaurants and others in the industry can target them more effectively with their offerings and promotional content.

A joint Expedia Group and Luth Research study provides one of the most extensive insights into the modern bleisure traveller to date. It found that bleisure travellers tend to make frequent business trips, with the vast majority (70 percent) travelling on behalf of their business at least once every three months.

The same research found that bleisure travellers work in a wide range of different industries, but the most common were travellers working in areas like technology, healthcare, public administration and manufacturing.

Meanwhile, SAP Concur research found that Millennials were the generation most likely to engage in bleisure travel, accounting for 38 percent of all such travellers. Nevertheless, Generation Xers and Baby Boomers also accounted for 31 percent of bizcations each, indicating a need for travel companies to appeal to all of these age groups.

According to a CWT Solutions Group survey, women take fewer business trips than men in total. Yet, despite this, in both gender groups, 20 percent of business travellers asked said they take one or more bleisure trips per year. As a result of this, the study found that women have a slightly higher overall bleisure rate than men.

It is also interesting to note that many bleisure travellers feel reluctant to share the leisure experiences they enjoy during business trips. The National Car Rental State of Business Travel Survey found that 45 percent of Millennials, 40 percent of Gen Xers and 30 percent of Baby Boomers felt a need to downplay personal activities.

Why is Bleisure Travel Popular Among Business Travellers?

For business travellers, the idea of bleisure trips hold strong appeal for a number of key reasons. On a basic level, the combination of work and fun or personal activities helps to create a far better work/life balance. This tends to result in greater happiness, lower levels of stress and more of a sense that business trips are worthwhile.

In many cases, bleisure travel represents an ideal opportunity to save on the travel costs associated with a trip abroad. Crucially, this allows people who may otherwise be unable to enjoy a personal holiday to do so. They will also have more money to spend on leisure, because travel and accommodation costs are at least partially covered by their employer.

Many business travellers return to the same location repeatedly, or at least more than once. With this in mind, bleisure trips offer an opportunity for travellers to get to know the location and its culture better. This, in turn, can help to improve the quality of work done, while allowing more meaningful business relationships to be formed.

Finally, bleisure offers the possibility of business travel with a companion, such as a friend, partner or colleague. This can help to alleviate boredom, prevent feelings of isolation and assist with overall enjoyment of the trip.

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American Airlines to fly between Chicago and Costa Rica

Written by Traveltalksteam on August 26, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Airline.

Travel news from around the world

Costa Rica
August 20, 2021: American Airlines to fly between Chicago and Costa Rica

American Airlines will soon fly nonstop between Chicago and Costa Rica, the Tourism Board (ICT) announced Friday.

Starting November 2, the Texas-based airline will offer the following new routes to Costa Rica:

Chicago (ORD) to the San José area (SJO): 3x weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Returns the following days (Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays).
Chicago (ORD) to Guanacaste (LIR): 1x weekly on Saturdays. Returns the same day.

“American Airlines has a strong commitment to Costa Rica, as evidenced by the 84 weekly flights that we will be operating in the fall from five destinations — the largest operation we have had during our 31 years in Costa Rica,” said Rafael Sánchez, Regional Manager of Central America for American.

“We are proud to start a new route from San José and Liberia, offering our clients greater travel options, now to Chicago, one of our most important hubs in the United States.”

American will compete with United Airlines, which also flies to Costa Rica from O’Hare Airport in Chicago.

With the new routes, American Airlines will soon offer nonstop service to Costa Rica from: Austin, Texas; Charlotte, North Carolina; Chicago, Illinois; Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas; New York City (JFK); and Miami.

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Mandarin Oriental opens its second property in Turkey

Written by Gill Dewar on August 26, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

Travel news from around the world

The Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul opened Aug. 22, 2021 marking the hospitality company’s second property in Turkey.

The hotel is a roughly 30-minute drive from Istanbul’s central business district and Taksim Square and adjacent to Kurucesme and Bebek parks on the Bosporus between the Sea of Marmara and Black Sea.

The property offers 100 guestrooms and suites, the largest of which is the 5091-square-foot Royal Bosphorus Suite with views of the strait, a private gym and garden area, full kitchen, and separate living and dining rooms.

The food and beverage options include the shoreside Novikov Istanbul restaurant, where the menu blends Asian and Italian influences; the Novikov Lounge Bar with a waterfront terrace; and the Novikov Pool Bar.

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul features an array of treatments and therapies and includes luxury treatment rooms, hammams, private relaxation areas, exercise and fitness facilities and an indoor swimming pool.

For events and meetings, the hotel features three ballrooms, a garden terrace and pool area and six meetings rooms, in addition to two other spaces that can be customized and equipped for private events.

“We are delighted to be opening this stunning urban resort in one of the world’s most exciting destinations and look forward to bringing Mandarin Oriental’s renowned quality of service to Istanbul,” Christoph Mares, chief operating officer for Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, said in a statement.

The property is Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s second hotel in Turkey, following the Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum which opened in 2017.

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Italia Trasporto Aereo, Alitalia Replacement, Announces Launch Plans

Written by Gill Dewar on August 26, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Airline.

Travel news from around the world

Following Alitalia’s cease of operations on October 15, Italia Trasporto Aereo (ITA) will replace the state-owned airline and will start flying from that date. As reported by Reuters, Italy reached a deal with the European Commission after months of haggling over the fate of the failing airline. ITA was originally intended to begin operations as soon as April 2021.

A key portion of the negotiation was focused on ensuring ITA was independent of Alitalia, so that it was not liable for paying back billions of euros the old carrier had received in state aid. The new airline said in a statement it will aim to raise initial capital of roughly $826 million in order to buy assets from the old company and begin operating.

Another result of the negotiations is that ITA will inherit only part of Alitalia’s flight slots, which are a major asset and proved a major sticking point in the talks. Specifically, the airline will receive 85 percent of the Alitalia slots at Milan Linate Airport and 43 percent at Rome–Fiumicino International Airport.

At the start of operations, the airline will serve 45 destinations with 61 routes, which will rise to 74 destinations and 89 routes in 2025. In the winter 2021 season, ITA will operate routes to New York (from Rome and Milan), Tokyo, Boston and Miami (all three from Rome). In summer 2022, the company plans to launch new flights to Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, São Paulo and Buenos Aires. Short and medium-haul flights will include those to Paris, London, Athens, Madrid, Amsterdam, Brussels, Frankfurt and Geneva, along with Tel Aviv, Cairo, Tunis and Algiers.

Of the 11,000 Alitalia staff, between 2,750 and 2,950 will be employed in the ITA’s aviation unit this year, rising to 5,550-5,700 by 2025.

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Six Senses opens new luxury resort in Israel

Written by Gill Dewar on August 25, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

Travel news from around the world

The luxury hotel brand has opened its latest property, located in Israel’s lunar-like Arava Valley in the south of the Negev Desert.

With its secluded setting, Six Senses Shaharut has the advantages of complete privacy and abundant space. The hotel features 60 suites and villas spread across the expansive desert landscape along with a signature spa and Alchemy Bar.

On site, the Earth Lab showcases the resort’s approach to sustainability and the circular economy, camel stables, surprisingly lush gardens, and open-air amphitheatre.

There are also two pools including a freshwater infinity pool with desert views, with dining options including the main Midian restaurant, the Edom View mezze and tapas venue, Jamillah lounge, or poolside grill.

Guests can also venture out to enjoy a Bedouin style desert picnic by Chef Amir Kalfon, paired with the region’s best wines and maybe catch a glimpse of a Nubian ibex.

From immersive Kibbutz experiences to stargazing sessions, camel treks through the luminous Negev desert or floating in the Dead Sea, the property is ideal for memorable luxury incentives.

The desert also setting presents a host of unique activities from overnight camping to extreme sports, e-mountain bike tours, hiking, jeep excursions, and Shabbat dinner in a nearby community. There are also opportunities to explore further afield, to the Dead Sea and Masada and to Petra.

The drive from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem takes around three-and-a-half hours through stunning landscapes, or three hours from Petra in neighbouring Jordan. Alternatively, guests can opt for a private helicopter transfer from Tel Aviv, or a 45-minute car transfer via the new Ramon International Airport (ETM) near Eilat, which also directly serves key European markets.

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Cameron Highlands to open new outdoor theme park with ski slopes in 2023

Written by Gill Dewar on August 25, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

Travel news from around the world

Cameron Highlands, Malaysia is known for its teas, chilly weather and unfortunately, landslides.

Recently it was announced that a new tourist destination worth more than RM100 million would be built on top of Cameron Highlands in Pahang.

The newly launched ‘ESCAPE Cameron Highlands’ theme park is set to become the region’s first outdoor ski attraction in the middle of the tropics and is scheduled to be completed in 2023.

The theme park is said to take on a European theme, with a set of five aesthetically different villages made to attract local tourists and people from Southeast Asian who are looking to escape the ASEAN heat.

The park would feature a ski lift that would take visitors up the top of a 1.2km dry ski track (basically means an artificial track with no snow) and guide them through scenic routes down the hill.

Fun Eco-getaway

Speaking at the launch of the project, Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the theme park would breathe a breath of fresh air into the nation’s tourism industry by offering something truly unique and help people reconnect with nature.

ESCAPE Cameron Highlands will do so much more than revitalize Cameron Highlands as a major tourism hub. This timely development will kickstart the revival of Malaysia’s domestic tourism industry, as a whole, which has been greatly hit by the Covid-19 pandemic since last year.

Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.

The theme park’s developers, Sim Leisure Group, explained that the project would adopt low impact development approaches in its design and construction while proliferating Cameron Highlands’ natural beauty and provide a fun get-away for everyone.

The ESCAPE concept in a nutshell advocates the re-discovery of childhood and re-connection with nature. It reintroduces the benefits of play and enhancement of motor skills by introducing. the nostalgic activities of yesteryear in a contemporary but natural environment. We have been doing this with ESCAPE Penang and ESCAPE Petaling Jaya, but I can guarantee, it will be quite unlike anything in ESCAPE Cameron Highlands.

Sim Leisure Group Executive and ESCAPE Founder Sim Choo Kheng.

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The Standard Singapore hotel firms up 2023 opening

Written by Gill Dewar on August 25, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

Travel news from around the world

Singapore has no shortage of high-end hotels, but that isn’t stopping The Standard from adding The Red Dot to its growing network.

Executive Traveller readers may already be familiar with The Standard New York, Los Angeles and London – each of which showcases the boutique brand’s focus on a design-savvy lifestyle audience – or, in its own words, a “taste-making clientele.”

With 143 rooms, the hotel will be crowned by the now-mandatory rooftop infinity pool and pool bar, albeit one set within a lush botanical courtyard; also set to feature are The Standard’s “signature restaurant and nightlife vibrancy, and arts and cultural programming.”

“Singapore has emerged into an incredibly important and innovative hub in Asia and we couldn’t be more excited about this development,” said Standard International Chief Executive Officer, Amar Lalvani, adding praise for the “culturally rich and dynamic city.”

2023 will also see the opening of The Standard Melbourne, with the inner-city suburb of Fitzroy marking the brand’s Australian debut.

The Woods Bagot-designed site on Rose Street Fitzroy will offer 127 rooms over seven levels, and take its design cues from the local area and its long-standing industrial heritage.

“Fitzroy’s history of corner pubs, workers cottages, grand housing and industry inspired our approach to the building’s façades,” offers Peter Miglis, Regional Design Leader for Woods Bagot.

“Weathered steel and concrete are robust, timeless materials that sit comfortably straight away and, over time, will add charm as they patina.”

Thailand is also on The Standard’s coming-soon list, with The Standard Hua Hin set to open in November 2021, followed by The Standard Bangkok Mahanakhon in 2022.

Slated to open in 2023, The Standard Singapore will see a new building arise on Orange Grove Road, across from the Shangri-La Singapore and at the heart of a triangle formed by the Botanic Gardens, Newton Circus hawker centre and the start of the Orchard Road shopping strip – each of which represents a core part of the Singapore experience.

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Qantas to launch ‘vaccination passport’ for international flights

Written by Gill Dewar on August 25, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Airline.

Travel news from around the world

Qantas will introduce a ‘digital health’ smartphone app for international flights, with the ability to securely store and present proof of Covid vaccination as well as the results of pre-departure Covid tests.

The airline has settled on the Travel Pass platform developed by the International Air Transport Association to spearhead an industry-wide push to streamline a return to the skies for business and leisure travellers – especially as countries begin to insist on vaccination or negative test results for inbound passengers.

The airline says that final development work is now underway to ensure the Travel Pass app is ready for use on Qantas and Jetstar international flights when they resume, which is expected to span from later this year for New Zealand and other potential travel bubble countries such as Singapore, to early-mid 2022 for the bulk of routes to Asia, the USA and the UK.

However, a Qantas spokesperson told Executive Traveller that the airline is also looking to integrate Travel Pass functionality into the airline’s own smartphone app so that passengers would eventually need just the one app.

“We want to get our international flights back in the air and our people back to work and a digital health pass will be a key part of that,” said Qantas Group Chief Customer Officer Stephanie Tully.

“The IATA Travel Pass will allow travellers to have their Covid test results and vaccine information verified securely, which will be their green light to fly internationally with us.”

Many countries already require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test result for international travel.

“A digital health pass will connect customers with Covid testing facilities, health authorities and airlines, and ultimately enable the opening of more travel bubbles and borders,” Tully elaborated.

By using the Travel Pass app, passengers will be able to confirm specific ‘health requirements’ for their flight, including the entry conditions of the country they’re travelling to.

Qantas passengers without smartphones or who choose not to use the Travel Pass app will be able to present their vaccination certificate or proof of a negative test at the airport.

The Australian government is also developing a ‘vaccination passport’ and has been in discussion with IATA on possibly adopting the Travel Pass as a national standard.

This would enable vaccinated flyers more freedom of movement and in the short term, potentially return from some countries into seven days of home isolation rather than 14 days of hotel quarantine.

No jab, no fly…

Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce has previously said that vaccination would be mandatory for passengers on all international Qantas and Jetstar flights.

Exceptions would be made for passengers who qualify for a medical exemption, along with some ‘travel bubble’ countries such as New Zealand, unless those destinations made vaccination a condition of entry.

“Once a safe and effective vaccine becomes readily available, it will be a requirement for travel on our international services,” Joyce declared in December 2020.

He also cited widespread support for mandatory international vaccination among the airline’s passengers, saying that a recent poll indicated 87% were willing to take the vaccine if it was required to travel internationally, while “85% thought it should be required for travel to at least some countries.”

How the Travel Pass works

The Travel Pass allows passengers to create a digital health wallet linked to their passport. Once they have been tested and/or vaccinated, labs will securely send that data straight to the app, without being stored on a central database.

IATA maintains its app “has been developed with the highest levels of data privacy and security, so passengers always remain in control of their COVID-19 health information.”

The app then checks the destination’s requirements for travel against the data, and passengers who meet those travel requirements will be given the green tick to travel.

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Oberammergau Passion Play 14th May – 02nd October 2022

Written by Gill Dewar on August 24, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Featured events.

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Oberammergau Passion Play 2022

The world-famous Oberammergau Passion Play will take place in 2022. Spaces very limited for this powerful spectacle that only takes place every 10 years.

2022 marks the 42nd edition of this spectacular event, which dates back to 1634. This open-air stage performance takes place every 10 years in the Bavarian village of Oberammergau and honours the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The cast is made up entirely of Oberammergau residents with over 2,000 actors taking part, including around 500 children.

Be awestruck by the grandeur of the cast and crew of 2000, featuring actors, singers, musicians, and technicians – all of whom are residents of the town of Oberammergau. Discover a local tradition that spans centuries and secure your seat in the heart of it all, in Oberammergau.

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Brisbane selected to host 2032 Olympic Games

Written by Gill Dewar on August 24, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Featured events, MICE, Sports.

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Brisbane selected to host 2032 Olympic Games

Brisbane has been formally awarded hosting rights for the 2032 Olympic Games following a vote of International Olympic Committee (IOC) member nations in Tokyo.

The decision means the event will return to Australia for a third time.

With the Australian city the only bid city still in the running, the decision was a foregone conclusion.

The 2032 Olympic Games will follow Melbourne in 1956 and Sydney in 2000.

The estimated to cost sits at around US$5 billion.

The majority of this is expected to be recouped through ticket revenue, domestic sponsorship and broadcast rights.

The bid has predicted the games will bring US$17 billion in economic benefit to the city.

“My government is proud to be supporting this opportunity for Brisbane and southeast Queensland,” prime minister Scott Morrison said.

“The Australian and Queensland governments are fully funding the infrastructure projects to be delivered in preparation for the games, ensuring that they deliver for Brisbane 2032, but also leave a lasting legacy.”

Brisbane will also host the Paralympics; the second time Australia has done so – the first Paralympic Games were held in Rome in 1960.

The 2024 Olympics are set for Paris, while the 2028 event will take place in Los Angeles.

IOC president, Thomas Bach, said: “We encourage Olympic Games projects which are sustainable and economically responsible, which deliver the best possible games experience for athletes and fans, and which leave solid legacies for local communities.

“The Brisbane 2032 vision and games plan fit into long-term regional and national strategies for social and economic development in Queensland and Australia.

“Today’s vote is a vote of trust that Brisbane and Queensland will stage magnificent Olympic and Paralympic Games 2032. We have heard a lot of positive feedback from IOC members.”

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Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh unveils exciting expansion plans

Written by Gill Dewar on August 24, 2021. Posted in Destination news, Hotel.

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August 5, 2021 – Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh unveils expansion plans

Along a kilometre of private beach where the southern Sinai desert meets the Red Sea, Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh has been a favourite of sunseekers since opening nearly 20 years ago.

Now, a major expansion and enhancement project will add 22 hectares (54 acres), doubling the size of the current property and making room for more guest accommodations, dining options and pools.

The Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh will also be an all-new fitness facility and a large conference centre for meetings and destination weddings.

A full service on-site PADI centre offers immediate access to one of the leading diving and snorkelling destinations.

Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh

“Since opening nearly 20 years ago, Four Seasons has been the leading luxury resort on the peninsula, a favourite holiday destination for families, friends and couples from across Europe and the Middle East,” said Simon Casson, president, hotel operations, Europe, Middle East and Africa for Four Seasons.

“Now as we embark on one of the company’s most ambitious expansion and enhancement programs ever, Sharm El Sheikh is poised to become a truly world class destination for those who crave sun and sea in an authentic luxury setting that only Four Seasons can create.”

The enhancements will be complete later this year.

“We can’t wait to introduce this exciting destination to a new generation of travellers from around the world,” said Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh general manager, Sam Ioannidis.

“For the many guests who come back again and again, we have so many surprises in store.

“Over the years we’ve watched families grow, celebrated important milestones together, set the stage for the most romantic moments, explored the abundant natural world and immersed ourselves in desert culture.

“Now we have the opportunity to offer our guests so much more, and our team is more dedicated than ever to ensuring that each and every stay with us is fully tailored and completely memorable.”

Blessed with year-round sunshine and an ideal location just ten minutes from the international airport, guests of the newly expanded and significantly enhanced Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh will have their toes in the sand in no time as they settle in for a holiday to remember.

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Oman to reopen for quarantine-free travel from September 1

Written by Traveltalksteam on August 24, 2021. Posted in Destination news.

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Oman
Oman reopens September 1
Oman will open its borders to visitors for the first time in 2021 from 12pm on September 1. From next week, fully vaccinated individuals who are either citizens, residents with a valid residency permit or travellers with valid visas are allowed to travel to the Sultanate without prior approval, and will be able to bypass quarantine provided they can prove their vaccine status and present a negative PCR test.

New travel requirements
To travel to Oman, visitors should have a medical certificate – also known as a Covid passport – with a QR code that demonstrates they’ve completed a full course of a locally approved vaccine at least 14 days prior. Currently, this includes AstraZeneca (Covishield), Oxford AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Sinovac and Sputnik V, although according to a post by Oman Airports, the country’s Ministry of Health (MOH) will post and update the list of approved vaccines). This must be printed out.

Travellers must also register at Tarassud+ prior to their arrival, which will be updated ahead of September 1 to allow for vaccinated visitors and residents to complete their pre-travel details and avoid mandatory quarantine.

Visitors should also present a negative Covid-19 PCR test, which should be taken within the last 96 hours for those arriving on long haul flights longer than 8 hours, or within 72 hours for those arriving on shorter flights under 8 hours. This must be printed out. Those that travel to Oman without undergoing a PCR test will be required to undergo one at the airport, wear the Tarrasud+ tracking bracelet, and quarantine until their negative result is provided. If the result is positive, they must self-isolate for 10 days.

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Africa tourism summit set for September 2021

Written by Gill Dewar on August 24, 2021. Posted in Featured events, Destination news.

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The Department of Tourism and South African Tourism will host the first ‘Africa’s Travel and Tourism Summit’, from September 19 to 21, coinciding with Tourism Month in South Africa.

Africa’s Travel and Tourism Summit aims to be a catalyst for engagement on the current state of tourism on the African continent. Taking into account challenges facing the global tourism industry, the summit will, through various engagement sessions, gather the tourism sector to share insights and ideas to explore collaborative efforts that can lead to recovery.

With an array of issues currently facing the sector, the summit aims to attract African community delegates, African tourism ministers, industry associations, tourism boards, DMOs as well as various partners across the tourism value chain.

Some of the major topics for discussion will include aviation, innovation, technology, the health and safety protocols currently in place, as well as the continent’s positioning post the COVID-19 pandemic.

SA Tourism acting ceo, Sthembiso Dlamini, said Africa was resilient and that the summit would contribute to picking up the momentum within the sector as it worked toward an inclusive recovery.

“The COVID-19 pandemic may have dealt tourism, both business and leisure tourism, a heavy blow, but we are now in the recovery phase, and a summit of this nature is critical in ensuring that we are aligned as a continent whilst reigniting the tourism industry,” said Sthembiso.

Hybrid format

The summit will be hosted in a hybrid format over a two-day period. Delegates will have the option of attending virtually, or at identified venues across South Africa, or at three additional locations on the rest of the African continent – depending on COVID-19 lockdown regulations. All venues will have COVID-19 health and safety protocols in place.

“We have opted for the hybrid format in order for us, as a continent, to lead the way in demonstrating how tourism can be enjoyed safely whilst adhering to health protocols. It is important that we are diligent in reigniting the sector, as it contributes significantly to the African economy,” added Sthembiso.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Tourism as well as South African Tourism were not able to host the MICE-focused Meetings Africa and leisure-focused Africa’s Travel Indaba 2021 editions, which usually take place in February and May annually.

While Africa’s Travel and Tourism Summit should not be seen as a replacement, it does provide a platform to showcase Africa’s leisure tourism offerings and business event capabilities.

“In the absence of Africa’s Travel Indaba in 2020 and 2021, Africa’s Travel and Tourism Summit is an innovative initiative for promoting intra-Africa tourism and also for sharing insights into the ‘state of readiness’ for South Africa and the rest Africa to welcome the world during and post-COVID-19 pandemic,” said Kwakye Donkor, ceo of Africa Tourism Partners.

“I commend South African Tourism and the South African National Convention Bureau, for once again showing commitment and leadership in tourism promotion across the continent. It will be so great to meet traditional and emerging trade partners again during the summit. Well done to Team South African Tourism! We look forward to a very fruitful summit,” he said.

Dedicated SME day

Committed to ongoing transformation and development of the South African tourism industry, Africa’s Travel and Tourism Summit will feature a dedicated day to empower SMMEs in the sector on September 19.

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WTM London (physical and virtual) November 2021

Written by Gill Dewar on August 24, 2021. Posted in Featured events, Destination news, MICE.

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Your new travel success story begins here

There’s never been a greater hunger for escape and discovery. So much about travel has changed, and yet for those inspired to reconnect, rebuild and innovate, the new potential is breath-taking.

Now is the moment. With WTM London we’re bringing the world of travel back together, applying our experience as the world leader to deliver — safely and responsibly — one of the first live, face-to-face events for our sector.

We cannot wait to welcome you back. It’s time to reunite and reconnect properly with each other. Time to rebuild thriving businesses and uncover the innovations and ideas that will reshape travel. Together, let’s rekindle the inspiration that makes this the ultimate industry to be in.

This year we are running a hybrid event, the physical event will take place in ExCel London 1-3 November with a virtual event taking place the week after on 8-9 November.

WTM London show features

On the show floor, WTM London is an experience to bring the senses alive: a collection of the world’s most exciting destinations and travel experiences.

The exhibition floor is organised by geography and sector, making it easy to meet people that share your interests and goals.

Discover the regions of the world and explore the international hub for global exhibitors. You’ll also find dedicated feature areas showcasing companies who specialise in travel technology, luxury travel and many more.

Hear from industry leaders about travel trends, issues and innovations. A rich programme of seminars takes place across two stages this year where we help talk about the future of travel.

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ITB Asia Singapore and Virtual – 2021

Written by Gill Dewar on August 24, 2021. Posted in Featured events, Destination news, MICE.

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ITB Asia, Asia’s Leading Travel Trade Show, is an annually held B2B trade show and convention for the travel industry; it is designed to be the primary event for the Asia Pacific travel industry, much like its parent event – ITB Berlin.

Now in its 14th year, ITB Asia will be held in virtually from 25 – 29 October 2021 on ITB Community in Asia .

Expect virtual business meetings, networking, on-demand conferences, live streaming and a knowledge library designed as an added value for greater outreach during the virtual event.

ITB Asia is organised by Messe Berlin (Singapore) Pte Ltd and supported by the Singapore Exhibition & Convention Bureau. Today, ITB Asia is the premier meeting place for the travel trade industry and a forum for establishing high-quality customer contacts and conducting businesses. This is where international exhibitors of all sectors within the travel-value chain commerce, and Asia Pacific’s leading travel companies and emerging small and medium-sized enterprises meet with top international buyers from the MICE, Leisure, Corporate Travel and Travel Technology markets.

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IT&CM Asia Thailand – September 2021

Written by Gill Dewar on August 23, 2021. Posted in Featured events, Destination news, MICE.

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MICE & CORPORATE TRAVEL VIRTUAL EVENT
28 TO 30 SEPTEMBER 2021

Back With Greater Business Focus, Wider Reach and Even Bigger Value!

The Leading International MICE Event Centered in Asia-Pacific

Established in 1993, IT&CMA is at the forefront of fostering MICE growth opportunities for the Asia-Pacific and beyond.

Its multi-faceted programme engages regional and international industry suppliers and buyers in the realms of business, education and networking. IT&CMA also features dedicated platforms designed around the interests of valuable MICE niche segments, enabling the event to consistently deliver a delegate profile that is both relevant and dynamic.

IT&CMA remains uniquely positioned as the only global event with the largest exhibition showcase of Asia-Pacific MICE suppliers.

Co-located with CTW Asia-Pacific as Asia-Pacific’s Only Doublebill Event in MICE and Corporate Travel, IT&CMA is part of the IT&CM Events series organised by TTG Events, a business group of TTG Asia Media.

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