ΔΙΕΘΝΗΣ ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΗΛΕΚΤΡΟΝΙΚΗ ΕΦΗΜΕΡΙΔΑ ΠΟΙΚΙΛΗΣ ΥΛΗΣ - ΕΔΡΑ: ΑΘΗΝΑ

Ει βούλει καλώς ακούειν, μάθε καλώς λέγειν, μαθών δε καλώς λέγειν, πειρώ καλώς πράττειν, και ούτω καρπώση το καλώς ακούειν. (Επίκτητος)

(Αν θέλεις να σε επαινούν, μάθε πρώτα να λες καλά λόγια, και αφού μάθεις να λες καλά λόγια, να κάνεις καλές πράξεις, και τότε θα ακούς καλά λόγια για εσένα).

Πέμπτη 28 Φεβρουαρίου 2019

US travel sector retains #1 status and grows despite trade tensions






Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για World Travel & Tourism Council



The United States retained its status as the world’s largest Travel & Tourism economy despite a standstill in international visitors from China, according to major new research released by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
The research shows that the United States remained the biggest Travel & Tourism market in the world in 2018 with the sector contributing almost $1.6tn to GDP. This translates to 7.8% of US GDP with the sector growing by 2.2% (accounting for inflation) last year.
After registering average annual growth of 23% over the previous decade, Chinese travel to the US was flat last year partly due to trade tensions between the two countries. International visitors from China account for 4% of total US visitors but 11% of all spending, demonstrating their economic importance to the country.
WTTC President & CEO, Gloria Guevara, said: “The US continues to be the largest travel economy in the world registering growth of 2.2% last year. However, after recording ten years of stellar growth, international visitor numbers from China were flat year on year, caused in part by the deteriorating trade relations between the two countries. Given the economic importance of Chinese visitors, any thawing in the trade relations between the two countries would have a positive effect for the wider US economy.”
For over 25 years, WTTC, which represents the global private sector of Travel & Tourism, has produced the authoritative research on the economic contribution of the sector across 185 countries and the impact of employment.
This year’s analysis for the United States shows that the direct, indirect, and induced impact of Travel & Tourism accounted for:
  • $1,595 billion, 7.8% of United States GDP (2.2% real annual increase)
  • 15.6 million jobs
  • $198.8 billion in spending by international visitors (0.9% annual decrease)
Guevara continued: “Travel & Tourism, has been a consistent driver of employment in the United States. The sector creates jobs, drives exports and generates prosperity. Its continued resilience and our projections for growth serve to highlight the importance of the industry to the US economy. The US is the biggest travel market in the world, the sector is integral to the country’s broader economic performance and must be prioritised.”
To strengthen the US travel sector and ensure it remains both robust and competitive, WTTC recommends that US policymakers focus on:
  • Preserving Brand USA: We support the renewal of Brand USA this year - a program with broad bipartisan support - beyond its current 2020 authorisation to continue marketing the US as a premier global Travel & Tourism destination.
  • Expanding, rebranding the US Visa Waiver Program: With its bilateral security and travel facilitation benefits, we support the rebranding of the VWP as the “Secure Travel Partnership Program” and its expansion beyond the current 38 participating nations to other qualified countries.
  • Modernising US airport and other infrastructure: WTTC recognises the importance of world-class Travel & Tourism infrastructure - particularly airports.
  • Biometric passenger identification: WTTC recognises and supports the biometric passenger identification and processing initiative, an area where the US is leading the world. The work being undertaken by US Customs and Border - Protection for the roll-out of a seamless traveller experience is helping us to transform the passenger experience, enhance security and create jobs.

Tags:WTTC


WTM Latin America 2019 creates new vacancies on its Hosted Buyers Programme for Latin America






Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για WTM Latin America 2019 creates new vacancies on its Hosted Buyers Programme for Latin America


WTM Latin America 2019, which takes place 2 – 4 April at Expo Center Norte in São Paulo, announces new vacancies available on its Hosted Buyers Programme. The programme will select 30 interested people from Latin American operators and/or travel agencies, who will receive accommodation, transfer and food benefits over the three days of the event, all funded by WTM Latin America.

Those professionals who register will be screened for an analysis of criteria such as: how representative the company is in its country of origin; its interest in Latin American products and those from other continents; the company’s size and its investments; and its current market potential.

In addition to accommodation, food at the event and being personally welcomed on arrival, the benefits for these 30 vacancies include access to the meeting scheduling system with exhibitors that are suitable for the interest profile, participation in the Speed Networking sessions and access to an exclusive lounge at the event. These 30 vacancies are considered to semi-hosted because they do not include the event’s organizers covering airline tickets.

The initiative is coordinated by the WTM Latin America team, which will be responsible for selecting and recruiting those professionals who meet the requirements, while actually running the programme during the event will be the responsibility of the Interamerican Network. Those interested should complete the evaluation form that is available at this link.

According to Thais Del Ben, marketing manager for WTM Latin America, the opportunity reinforces the event’s commitment to generating business and to networking. “With these 30 vacancies we’ll reach 90 Hosted Buyers, not counting the other 60 who we normally bring to the event. This will be the largest number of professionals present at our event in the last four years”, says Thais, adding: “as a result we’ll be significantly increasing WTM Latin America’s business generation and customer satisfaction. With our new meeting scheduling system, all these opportunities will also be boosted further.”

ATR Enters into a Partnership with AviAssist in Africa




Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για ATR Enters into a Partnership with AviAssist in Africa


ATR signed a partnership agreement with AviAssist, the independent non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting African aviation safety.
Through this partnership, ATR continues to strengthen flight safety awareness and accident prevention actions. Since 2015, ATR has participated in the annual Safety in African Aviation Conferences (SiAAC) organised by AviAssist. ATR is also a member of the Conference Committee.
Commenting on the signature of this partnership agreement, Tom Kok, Director of AviAssist declared: “We are thrilled to include the expertise, safety dedication and funding of ATR to our work in Africa and our ASPCs (AviAssist Safety Promotion Centres). This partnership demonstrates ATR’s leadership in flight safety. ATR aircraft play a crucial role in the development of new routes across the globe and in Africa. In turn, route development is promoted by the African Union with its Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) initiative. SAATM aims to open up Africa's skies and improve intra-African air connectivity. This partnership enables us to empower ever more safety champions throughout Africa to support SAATM.”
Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για ATR Enters into a Partnership with AviAssist in Africa
Christopher McGregor ATR Flight Safety Officer said at the signing: “As the leader in the regional aviation market, it is essential for ATR to share its expertise to improve flight safety in the regions we serve. ATR recognises the success of AviAssist in driving safety improvement. We look forward to further strengthening the existing co-operation through training and dedicated safety promotion activities for regional operations. We thank AviAssist for putting their trust in ATR. ”
More than 120 ATR aircraft are operated in 22 African countries by 30 airlines. According to our market forecast, the number of turboprops in Africa is expected to exceed 350 within the next twenty years.

Tags:ATR  AviAssist

Travel & Tourism in 2018 contributed $8.8 trillion to the global economy








Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Travel & Tourism in 2018 contributed $8.8 trillion to the global economy

The global Travel & Tourism sector grew at 3.9% to contribute a record $8.8 trillion and 319 million jobs to the world economy in 2018. For the eighth consecutive year, this was above the growth rate of world GDP.
This is according to the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) annual research into the economic impact and social importance of the sector. The research conducted over the last 25 years by WTTC, which represents the global private sector of Travel & Tourism, shows that Travel & Tourism in 2018:
  • Contributed $8.8 trillion to the global economy
  • Grew faster than the global economy for the eighth successive year (3.9% for Travel & Tourism versus 3.2% for global GDP)
  • Generated 10.4% of all global economic activity
  • Contributed 319 million jobs, representing one in ten of all jobs globally
  • Is responsible for one in five of all new jobs created in the world over the last five years
  • Is the second-fastest growing sector in the world, ahead of Healthcare (+3.1%); Information Technology (+1.7%) and - Financial Services (+1.7%) behind only Manufacturing, which grew by 4%
  • Increased its share of leisure spending to 78.5% (from 77.5% in 2017) meaning 21.5% (22.5% in 2017) of spending was on business
  • Increased its share of spending from international tourists 28.8%, up from 27.3% in 2017. This means that 71.2% of spending comes from domestic tourists.
Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO, said: “2018 was another year of strong growth for the global Travel & Tourism sector reinforcing its role as a driver of economic growth and job creation. For the eighth consecutive year, our sector outpaced growth in the wider global economy and we recorded the second-highest growth of any major sector in the world.
“In 2018, Travel & Tourism generated $8.8 trillion and supported 319 million jobs across the world. Yet again, this proves the power of Travel & Tourism as a tool for governments to generate prosperity while creating jobs which particularly support women, youth and other, often marginalised groups of society. In fact, Travel & Tourism now accounts for one in five of all new jobs created worldwide and is forecast to contribute 100 million new jobs globally over the next ten years, accounting for 421 million jobs by 2029.”


Hyatt's Andaz Brand Debuts in Germany







Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Hyatt's Andaz Brand Debuts in Germany


Hyatt Hotels announced the official opening of Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor, the first Andaz branded hotel in Germany.
Joining Andaz hotels in top destinations around the world, including New York, London, Amsterdam and Abu Dhabi, Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor is the third Andaz branded hotel in Europe.
True to the brand, the hotel offers guests an unscripted Bavarian-inspired experience, allowing guests to feel like locals from the moment they arrive. The hotel is located in the Schwabing district, the cultural hub of the city and home to theaters, restaurants, and the renowned Englischer Garten.
“Schwabinger Tor is a vibrant and bustling area in Munich known for its culture and diversity,” said Mattheos Georgiou, general manager for Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor. “The hotel is a place for inquisitive travelers, guests, and neighbors with interest in the area’s urban design, street art, and social responsibility. Munich is known as one of the most livable cities in the world, and the hotel will offer guests an immersive experience in the Bavarian capital.”
Guests can take in a video installation by artist Yves Petzner in the lobby. Stone and herringbone oak floors, luminous diamond patterned ceilings, copper accents, and leather sofas all come together to emphasize the design style of Munich.
In a nod to the Englischer Garten, Munich’s largest park located steps from the hotel, the meeting space area features a nature-inspired wall composed of vertically hanging plants. Additionally, the Andaz Lounge offers an authentic Bavarian feel, furnished with a “golden pretzel” – a seat made from a cast bronze alloy and produced by a local Munich art foundry.
Guestrooms
The hotel features 277 spacious, loft-inspired suites and guestrooms that deliver breathtaking views of the city and the Alps. Every room has been thoughtfully designed with contemporary interpretations of Bavarian traditions. Locally inspired snacks and drinks fill the mini-bar in each room. In a unique collaboration with Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor, bath amenities in each guestroom were produced by La Bottega and Saskia Diez, an internationally renowned Munich jewelry designer. Custom-designed sofas, reminiscent of vintage car seats, provide a comfortable and luxurious setting.
Dining with a Sense of Place
The Lonely Broccoli celebrates the unique flavors of Bavaria by serving quality meat and using (almost) all parts of the animal. The menu offers a selection of prime cuts, grilled and slow-roasted meats, accompanied by local and seasonal produce. The open kitchen in the middle of the restaurant is accompanied by two long chef’s tables offering front row seats to the culinary activities. 
M’Uniqo, the dramatic rooftop bar, one of the highest in town, is the perfect place to socialize over botanical-infused cocktails, listen to live music, and take in a stunning, panoramic view of the city and the Alps.
Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Hyatt's Andaz Brand Debuts in Germany
Designed to stimulate the senses, Bicicletta, the hotel’s coffee bar, infuses aromas its artisan coffee and also offers fresh juices. Guests can enjoy their favorite beverage while sitting on unique bar stools shaped like bicycle seats. For a casual bite, guests can stop by Café M throughout the day for its deli menu.
Wellness
With carefully selected, regionally inspired products and healing treatments – massages, body rituals, facials and aromatherapy – every guest will leave The Andaz Spa, one of the city’s largest spas, feeling truly connected to the heart and soul of Munich. A spiral staircase connects the spa to the 55 foot (17 meter) swimming pool, along with an elevator that takes guests directly to the pool deck, where, on a clear day, guests can see as far as the Alps. Gym-goers can take advantage of the fully equipped, state-of-the-art, 24-hour gym.
Meetings and Events
Measuring more than 21,530 square feet (2,000 square meters), Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor is the perfect location for creative gatherings. Guests can choose from seven inspiring studios for meetings and events, two private kitchens, a 2,150 square foot (200 square meter) exhibition space, and a 5,380 square foot (500 square meter) ballroom with a diamond-shaped folding ceiling and countless programmable lighting options.
The studio spaces offer guests a creative and relaxed environment to work alone or host informal meetings. Situated across two floors and complete with comfortable sofas and playful elements, guests also have access to large flat-screen TVs and glass whiteboards.
Each gathering space reflects the neighborhood, such as the green wall with hanging plants in the welcome area that’s inspired by the Englischer Garten.
Opposite the studios on both floors is a private kitchen seating 12 at a wooden table set under the playful, suspended lamps. Here, guests can enjoy the action of live cooking at every event.


Radisson Brings World-Class Hospitality and Extensive Event Space To Medan





Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Radisson Brings World-Class Hospitality and Extensive Event Space To Medan


Radisson, the upscale brand that delivers delightful and balanced experiences, continues to expand its footprint in Indonesia with the opening of Radisson Medan, a stylish upscale hotel with world-class meeting facilities.

Perfectly positioned on Jalan H. Adam Malik in downtown Medan, surrounded by corporate offices and retail malls, Radisson Medan is suitable for all guests, especially local and international business travelers. Its extensive facilities include two floors of flexible function space, making this hotel one of the city’s top destinations for meetings and events.

Radisson Medan officially opened on 26 February 2019, becoming the second Radisson-branded hotel in Indonesia following Radisson Golf & Convention Center Batam. A third hotel, Radisson Lampung, is scheduled to open next year.

“With its huge population, a buoyant economy and its position at the heart of South East Asia, Indonesia one of the world’s most dynamic countries and an important hotel market. Radisson, our international upscale brand, is a perfect fit for many of Indonesia’s fast-growing cities, including Medan. We look forward to introducing local and international travelers to a new era of hospitality in downtown Medan,” said Andre de Jong, Vice President, Operations, South East Asia and Pacific, Radisson Hotel Group.

Radisson Medan features 215 rooms and suites, all designed in a contemporary style and equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, LCD TVs with cable channels, and working areas with international power sockets. The majority of rooms feature spectacular views of Medan’s rising skyline. Guests booking any of the hotel’s 32 suites will also enjoy additional space and access to the Executive Lounge, with services including private check-in/out, breakfast, daily snacks and evening cocktails and canapés.

The new hotel is also an ideal venue for corporate and social events, with more than 1,500 square meters of meeting space, including a ballroom, nine meeting rooms and a large pre-function area. Supported by professional event planners and audio-visual flair, this is set to become one of Medan’s leading venues for large-scale company conferences, social occasions and weddings.


Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s modern business center, work out at the fully equipped fitness center, or cool off in the outdoor pool. Located on the seventh floor, the Seven R Restaurant serves exquisite local and international dishes, including buffet breakfast and all-day à la carte dining, while the lobby lounge offers light snacks and drinks throughout the day.


“I am delighted to welcome our first guests to Radisson Medan. Our contemporary rooms, suites and facilities are perfect for all types of guest, including solo business travelers, couples, families and groups. Meanwhile, our extensive MICE facilities give us the flexibility to host a broad range of events, from small boardroom meetings to major events and weddings, putting the hotel in the heart of the local community,” said Frank Mayland, General Manager, Radisson Medan.

Medan is the fourth largest city in Indonesia and the main international gateway to North Sumatra, including major tourist attractions such as Lake Toba. The city’s Kualanamu International Airport is one of Indonesia’s largest air hubs, with international connections to cities including Singapore, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur.

Guests can now experience Radisson Medan with a special opening promotion. Book and stay between 26 February and 31 March 2019 and enjoy a 35 percent discount on all room categories. During the same period, organize a meeting or event and enjoy 20 percent discount on meeting packages.

5th UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism in San Sebastián on 2-3 May 2019







Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για 5th UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism in San Sebastián on 2-3 May 2019


The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the Basque Culinary Center (BCC) are co-organizing the 5th UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism, on 2-3 May 2019 in San Sebastián, Spain. The Forum is supported by the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism of Spain, the Basque Government, the Provincial Council of Gipuzkoa and the City Council of San Sebastián, a city that has hosted the Forum every other year since its first edition, in 2015.
The main content and objectives of the Forum were presented at a press conference at the UNWTO headquarters, presided by UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, Spain's Secretary of State for Tourism, Isabel Oliver, and the Director of the Basque Culinary Center (BCC), Joxe Mari Aizega. They were accompanied by the Deputy Minister of Tourism and Trade of the Basque Government, Isabel Muela, the Deputy for Culture, Tourism, Youth and Sports of Gipuzkoa, Denis Itxaso, and the First Vice-Mayor of the City of San Sebastián, Ernesto Gasco, representing the key partners for the holding of this international event.
Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για 5th UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism in San Sebastián on 2-3 May 2019
Through the World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism, the UNWTO and the Basque Culinary Center aim to promote the exchange of experiences among tourism and gastronomy experts, and identify good practices. The objective is to promote gastronomy tourism as a factor for the sustainable development of countries, by virtue of its close links with local products and culture. Consequently, it is a driver of professional training, job creation, and community development. This focus is the reason behind the partnership between UNWTO and the Basque Culinary Center.
Thus, the 5th Forum will analyse the skills and knowledge that gastronomy tourism will require in the future and highlight gastronomy as one of the main motivations for travel. In addition, the event aims to identify favourable frameworks that promote entrepreneurship and the creation of ecosystems that, in turn, stimulate connections among emerging companies throughout the gastronomy tourism value chain. The Forum will also address the potential of gastronomy tourism to promote better inclusion of disadvantaged groups and raise the quality of work environments. It will address some of the main challenges facing the sector, such as the gender wage gap, the employment of persons with disabilities, youth unemployment and the problem of seasonality, among others.
Entrepreneurship and sustainable development
The Forum will serve as the setting for the announcement of the winning startup of the 1st Global Gastronomy Tourism Startup Competition, launched with the support of Promperu. To date, the competition has attracted gastronomy tourism startups from 65 countries around the world, united by their commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals. The deadline for the submission of entries is 5 March 2019.
The winning startup will be invited to take part in the Culinary Action accelerator programme during the second semester of 2019, where it will benefit from the mentoring and advice of the network of experts of BCC Innovation, a workspace in LABe's Digital Gastronomy Lab project incubator, and a grant of up to 5,000 euros to cover the cost of accommodation and travel during this period.
The five finalist startups will be announced on 1 April and will be invited to present their projects to the sector’s investors during the Forum, as well as at the Ibero-American Gastronomy Fair (Miami, USA, 9-11 May 2019).

Steigenberger's Restaurants Receives Michelin Star Awards







Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Steigenberger Restaurants Receives Michelin Star Awards

The new Guide Michelin published on 27 February 2019 awards one star to three separate Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts restaurants.
The proud recipients are the Restaurant Satory at the Steigenberger Drei Mohren in Augsburg, the Français at the Frankfurter Hof, Frankfurt am Main, and the Olivo at the Steigenberger Graf Zeppelin in Stuttgart.
“Steigenberger has a clear commitment to offering our guests the very best restaurant experience every single day,” said Deutsche Hospitality CEO Thomas Willms. “This recognition of the culinary expertise of Simon Lang at the Satory, Patrick Bittner at the Frankfurter Hof and Anton Gschwendtner at the Graf Zeppelin does great credit to all three and to the brand as a whole.”
Under the leadership of Patrick Bittner, the Français at the Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof has specialised in light French-inspired cuisine based on classic elements. Patrick Bittner has held a Michelin star since 2009 and has also been awarded an impressive 17 points by Gault Millau.
Anton Gschwendtner, who did not take over as Head Chef at the Olivo until May 2018, wins a Michelin star for the second time. He uses regional and seasonal produce to cook a modern style of French cuisine which also features Asian influences. Anton Gschwendtner came to Stuttgart from the “Loft” Restaurant in Vienna. He was named as Austrian “Rising star of the year” in the 2018 Rolling Pin Awards and was also voted one of Austria’s 50 Best Cooks during his time in Vienna.
Simon Lang, who is celebrating his first Michelin star, offers French cooking with a Mediterranean twist. He trained at the Hotel Alpenhof in Augsburg before moving on to the Bayerischer Hof in Munich and subsequently to a Michelin star restaurant on the island of Sylt. He has also worked with the Michelin star winning restaurateur and celebrity chef Alfons Schuhbeck in Munich.


Copenhagen’s new Moxy opens on March 18th






Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Copenhagen’s new Moxy opens on March 18th


Denmark’s capital of cool, Copenhagen, is the top travel destination in 2019 according to Lonely Planet. In less than a month, Copenhagen becomes even cooler as the city is introduced to Marriott’s affordable lifestyle brand Moxy Hotels. The Danish operator, Core Hospitality, is training the Crew and styling the final details of the hotel to get it ready for opening on March 18th.
Affordable lifestyle hotel
Moxy Hotels is a fun and youthful brand, which is reflected in the combination of bold design and affordable style where communal engagement is at the heart of the experience. By day, the Moxy Bar is a social space for co-working and play, allowing outside visitors and guests to work remotely, host informal meetings and study in vibrant surroundings. The space includes board games, giant games for quick study breaks and loads of comfortable furniture. At night, the Moxy Bar transitions into a local destination for the community, offering music, cocktails and entertainment.
While Moxy is a lifestyle hotel with experiential settings, it is surprisingly affordable as explained by Vicki Poulos, Senior Global Brand Director of Moxy Hotels: “Today’s consumer is less desirous of a cookie cutter experience and in fact wants to discover something new, take in the city, the food, the local scene, whether he/she is there for a day or a week. Increasingly we see the blurring of lines between work and play; technology has made us connected 24/7. Today’s traveler is looking for a hotel to allow them to have the experience on their terms. We see them wanting to hang out in the living room to work or play, or both. Moxy has been designed to give Millennials everything they want and nothing that they don’t. The brand offers a new way of traveling which is smaller in concentration not a reduction. Premium in every way but price – its affordability is not a sacrifice of style, nor a loss of comfort.”
Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Copenhagen’s new Moxy opens on March 18th
Ideal brand for Copenhagen
Opening in Copenhagen’s Sydhavnen, Moxy will be situated in a growing business area with Aalborg University Copenhagen and thousands of apartments buildings. The area is up-and-coming but lacks a fun hangout for the locals and a lifestyle hotel option for the business community. The Danish operator, Core Hospitality, thus believes Moxy Hotels is ideal for this location in Sydhavnen.
"Sydhavnen has emerged as the newest up-and-coming area in Copenhagen. The market offers an ideal mix of large office spaces, strong transportation infrastructure, dozens of new residential properties, a leading university, world class shopping, top tourist destinations, and some of the best restaurateurs on the food scene in near proximity,” says Per Denker Sorensen, CEO of Core Hospitality, the operator of Moxy Copenhagen Sydhavnen. “Our business plan was to capitalize on this and build a hotel for Copenhageners and guests alike who desire a truly authentic experience. Moxy Copenhagen was designed to cater to the new demographic of Sydhavnen and is unlike any hotel in its marketplace. During the day you’ll find locals and travelers working and playing side-by-side at the Moxy. At night, you might find them challenging each other to a game of Jenga or toasting with cocktails.”
Moxy Copenhagen Sydhavnen fact list
  • 226 rooms with sound-reducing walls
  • 43” Netflix-ready televisions
  • Free lightning-fast Wi-Fi
  • Air condition in all rooms
  • Designer bath amenities
  • Free gym for all
  • Flexible and informal meeting rooms
  • Abundant USB plugins
  • Communal bar with co-working space
  • Bike rental for Fun Hunters
  • Limited parking space available

UAE Expects Strong Growth in Arrivals from Russia and China









Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για UAE Expects Strong Growth in Arrivals from Russia and China


Expo 2020 and its legacy, District 2020, are expected to have a positive long-term influence on the growth of inbound arrivals to the UAE from the country’s top five source markets between 2018 and 2023.
Looking at the country’s top three source markets, the number of Indian visitors travelling to the UAE will increase at a CAGR of 7% to 3.01 million in 2023, while arrivals from Saudi Arabia and the UK will witness an increase of 2% and 1% to 1.76 million and 1.28 million respectively over the same period.
While the UAE’s top source market rankings are expected to remain mostly unchanged post-Expo 2020 – the latest research from Colliers International, in partnership with ATM, reveals the Russian and Chinese source markets will show above average annual growth rates for inbound passenger arrivals.
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “The number of Russian tourists travelling to the UAE will increase at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12% to 1.6 million in 2023, while the number of Chinese tourists visiting the UAE will increase at a CAGR of 8% to 1.27 million over the same period, according to the data.”
Looking to acquire their share of these high-growth markets at ATM 2019, will be the tourism boards from the UAE’s seven emirates with major exhibits from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, Ajman and Fujairah as well as over 93 other UAE exhibitors such as Emirates, Emaar Hospitality Group and Dubai Airports Corporation.
Curtis said: “Taking a look at the other key drivers, besides Expo 2020, Russian visitors to the UAE have grown in recent years, due to the introduction of additional and direct airline routes. Russian visitors also now benefit from relaxed UAE visa regulations and rising oil prices are helping to strengthen the Russian rouble, making the UAE more affordable. 
“Regarding Chinese visitors, according to some analysts China’s middle-class will swell to 338 million households by 2020, a 13% increase in just five years. Moreover, by 2030 35% of China’s 1.4 billion population will have $10,000 of annual disposable income, up 10% from 2018. Therefore, the growth potential for both markets is significant.”
With 20 million annual visitors expected to visit Dubai by 2020, plus an additional five million between October 2020 and April 2021 – 70% of which will come from outside the UAE – the overall hospitality supply in the emirate is expected to increase by 39% from 59,561 keys in 2017 to 82,994 in 2021 to meet this demand.
Meanwhile in neighbouring emirate Abu Dhabi, the number of rooms across three, four and five-star properties is forecast to grow 13% from 21,782 in 2017 to 24,565 in 2021.  
“Just as Dubai and Abu Dhabi have their own unique set of visitor attractions, we are now seeing the northern emirates carving stronger identities, supported by their respective tourism authorities. And, while Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah and Fujairah are smaller than Dubai and Abu Dhabi in terms of supply, they are evolving quickly,” Curtis said.
Ras Al Khaimah is working on an unprecedented pipeline, which will more than double the number of hotel rooms, from 4,019 in 2017 to 9,078 in 2021, the largest proportionate pipeline in the GCC.
The number of hotel rooms in Sharjah is also expected to more than double between 2017 and 2021, taking the total number of hotel rooms in the emirate to 5,295 by 2021. Meanwhile, Fujairah will add almost 500 keys over the same period taking its total stock to 2,543 rooms.

Tags:UAE

Residence Inn hotels open in Charlotte, North Carolina and in Mason, Ohio





Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Residence Inn hotels open in Charlotte, North Carolina a
Residence Inn Charlotte 



The 119-suite Residence Inn by Marriott in Charlotte, North Carolina opened on Wednesday, February 13, 2019 with its upscale, stylish decor that offers flexibility, while creating a unique environment. Located at 5110 Trojan Drive, the all-suite Residence Inn Charlotte Steele Creek will operate as a Marriott franchise, owned by Steele Creek Hotel Holdings, LLC and managed by Midas Hospitality of St. Louis, Missouri. General Manager Henry Schmidlin and Director of Sales Sue Wing lead the management team at the property for Midas Hospitality.
Located in the Steele Creek Business Park, next door to the Charlotte Premium Outlets and seven miles from Charlotte Douglas International Airport, the Residence Inn Charlotte Steele Creek offers its guests convenient access to TopGolf, Carowinds Amusement Park, the U.S. National Whitewater Center and Uptown Charlotte.
“We are pleased with the continued growth of Residence Inn hotels in the Charlotte area,” said Diane Mayer, vice president and global brand manager, Residence Inn. “When on the road for an extended period, our guests need space to spread out, maintain their life’s pace and restore their energy to help them maintain a healthy balance and routine while traveling. This new hotel offers them a seamless blend of modern style and functionality that allows them to settle in and thrive.”
Residence Inn in Mason, Ohio
Residence Inn properties are designed as all-suite hotels that offer studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites. Guests looking for a revitalizing sleep experience will enjoy the hotel’s plush mattresses and crisp linens, while guests focused on being productive will value their suite’s large, well-lit work desk, ergonomic chair and complimentary high-speed Internet access. Designed for stays of five nights or more, each suite also has a fully-equipped kitchen with a coffeemaker, microwave oven and residential-sized appliances.
With the maximizer in mind, Residence Inn has created a decor with a “home plus” feel that is warm, optimistic and flexible. The long-stay guest will experience a livable, uplifting environment based on honest materials, organic forms, warm colors and natural light. The new design incorporates a transitional inviting style, crisp details and signature residential textiles. Each property will offer geographically tailored options.
The Residence Inn Charlotte Steele Creek rotates a wide selection of healthy choices at our free hot breakfast every day. Start with favorites like bacon and eggs, Greek yogurt, cut fruit or waffles and make it yours with our extensive toppings, ranging from fresh spinach and cheese to sliced almonds and strawberries. Enjoy all the options you need to start your morning with endless possibilities.
Extending the feeling of comfortable living on the road, the Residence Inn Charlotte Steele Creek offers guests inviting and functional public spaces to relax or collaborate. Road warriors and families alike enjoy the hotel’s grocery delivery service, complimentary Wi-Fi, 24-hour onsite food and beverage market, dry cleaning services, and onsite guest laundry room. The hotel’s weeknight evening gatherings - the RI Mix offer a casual, relaxing environment where guests can be as social as they want, while enjoying premium beers and connection to local flavors. The hotel also maintains a business library where guests can fax, copy and print materials, and provides guests with a full-service lounge, a meeting room, an outdoor swimming pool, an outdoor patio with a barbecue grill, bike storage and fitness center.
Also, the 106-suite Residence Inn by Marriott in Mason, Ohio is set to open this Thursday, February 28, 2019 with its upscale, stylish decor that offers flexibility, while creating a unique environment. Located at 2511 Kings Center Court, the all-suite Residence Inn Cincinnati Northeast/Mason will operate as a Marriott franchise, owned and managed by Keystone Hotel Group of Cincinnati, Ohio. General Manager Daniel Watson and Sales Manager Emily Shoemaker lead the management team at the property for Keystone Hotel Group.
The Residence Inn Cincinnati Northeast/Mason offers its guests convenient access to Kings Island Amusement Park and Lindner Family Tennis Center – home of the Western & Southern Open, and is just a short drive from downtown Cincinnati and Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. Rates vary depending on length of stay.


Australia’s Premier MICE Venue Exceeds Economic Goals






Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για International Convention Centre Sydney



According to a Deloitte Access Economics study, delegates attending events at International Convention Centre Sydney generated A$820 million in direct expenditure for the State in its second year of operation, an increase of A$35 million on the A$785 million direct contribution in 2017.
International and interstate visitors helped generate 72% (A$590 million) of the total expenditure, resulting in more than 1.57 million overnight stays in Sydney accommodation and the creation of 5,248 full time equivalent jobs for the local economy.
A key component of the NSW Government’s suite of infrastructure projects, ICC Sydney is a A$1.5 billion development which comprises an industry leading convention centre, exhibition centre and major entertainment theatre.
NSW Minister for Finance, Services and Property, Victor Dominello said the results of the study demonstrated the remarkable success of ICC Sydney since its opening in December 2016.
“The figures speak for themselves – ICC Sydney is a big win for Sydney, providing visitors with world class events, and boosting the economy and creating jobs.
“The venue has also enriched Darling Harbour and put Sydney on the map as Australia’s number one destination for events and exhibitions,” Minister Dominello said.
CEO of ICC Sydney, Geoff Donaghy said he is proud of the venue’s achievements in stimulating the local economy while setting new standards for the business events industry.
“ICC Sydney is proud to have welcomed another 1.3+ million visitors across more than 700 successful events in 2018 and simultaneously enhancing the city’s reputation globally and creating opportunities for our talented, local community.
“Our world class operation of ICC Sydney saw our satisfaction ratings improve on an already strong result in 2017, with a near-perfect delegate rating of 99% and client rating of 97%.”
Donaghy said ICC Sydney’s dual focus on putting its people first and serving the community has been critical to the venue’s strong performance.
“Our investment in our people and our engagement with the community around us is ultimately what underscores the success of our clients and the experience of our visitors.
“We firmly believe in equipping our people with the skills they require to succeed, providing careers, not just jobs. This mindset is the foundation of our inclusive and diverse culture and directly correlates with our achievements as a business.
“This approach to diversity and inclusion extends to the community where we’ve built an incredible network that all come together to make our event delivery possible and create a ripple effect of positive outcomes.”
Corporate Social Responsibility highlights:
  • 350+ items donated to charity
  • 340 team member volunteer hours clocked
  • 23,666 meals donated to OzHarvest
  • 87,5000 plastic straws eliminated and support of the Sydney Doesn’t Suck campaign
  • 648,000 plastic water bottles saved by promoting Sydney Water (a total of 1.4 million bottles since the campaign was implemented).
ICC Sydney’s 2018 results build on an impressive opening year with the venue set up for success in 2019 and beyond, having already secured a further 1,300 leading major national and international events across sectors to 2030.
To find out more about ICC Sydney, visit www.iccsydney.com

International visitors’ spending in US decreased by 1% to $198.8 billion in 2018








Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για International visitors’ spending in US

In U.S., spending by international visitors dropped nearly 1 per cent to $198.8 billion as per World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). There was lack of growth in visitors from China which contribute 11 per cent of all spending in U.S.  After stellar growth across 10 years, international visitor numbers from China were flat year on year It is caused in part by the deteriorating trade relations between the two countries.

Gloria Guevara, the council’s president and CEO said: “Given the economic importance of Chinese visitors, any thawing in the trade relations between the two countries would have a positive effect for the wider U.S. economy.”

The toursim sector contributes nearly U.S. dollars 1.6 trillion to the country’s gross domestic product, or 7.8 percent of the total. The WTTC said the contribution grew 2.2 percent year-over-year, adjusted for inflation. U.S. remains the world’s largest travel and tourism economy.

The United Nations World Tourism Organization data in January showed that the global tourism arrivals grew by 6 per cent in 2018.  However, North America saw international arrivals increase by mere 4 per cent.

AS per WTTC 79.9 million international visitors came to the United States in 2018. The figures are expected to increase to 82.5 million in 2019. Of the visitors in 2018, 3 per cent were Chinese.

The global tourism group released recommendations for the U.S. that include renewing of Brand USA, expanding and renaming the U.S. Visa Waiver Program; updating airports and other infrastructure; and embracing biometric passenger identification.