International tourism up 4% in first half of 2019, UNWTO reports

SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIAN FEDERATION - International tourist arrivals grew 4% from January to June 2019, compared to the same period last year, according to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer published ahead of the 23rd World Tourism Organization General Assembly. Growth was led by the Middle East (+8%) and Asia and the Pacific (+6%). International arrivals in Europe grew 4%, while Africa (+3%) and the Americas (+2%) enjoyed more moderate growth.

Destinations worldwide received 671 million international tourist arrivals between January and June 2019, almost 30 million more than in the same period of 2018 and a continuation of the growth recorded last year.

Growth in arrivals is returning to its historic trend and is in line with UNWTO’s forecast of 3% to 4% growth in international tourist arrivals for the full year 2019, as reported in the January Barometer.

So far, the drivers of these results have been a strong economy, affordable air travel, increased air connectivity and enhanced visa facilitation. However, weaker economic indicators, prolonged uncertainty about Brexit, trade and technological tensions and rising geopolitical challenges, have started to take a toll on business and consumer confidence, as reflected in a more cautious UNWTO Confidence Index.

Regional Performance
Europe grew 4% in the first six months of 2019, with a positive first quarter followed by an above-average second quarter (April: +8% and June: +6%), reflecting a busy Easter and the start of the summer season in the world’s most visited region. Intraregional demand fueled much of this growth, though performance among major European source markets was uneven, amid weakening economies. Demand from overseas markets such as the USA, China, Japan and the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) also contributed to these positive results.

Asia and the Pacific (+6%) recorded above world average growth during the January-June 2019 period, largely fueled by Chinese outbound travel. Growth was led by South Asia and North-East Asia (both +7%), followed by South-East Asia (+5%), and arrivals in Oceania increased by 1%.

In the Americas (+2%), results improved in the second quarter after a weak start of the year. The Caribbean (+11%) benefitted from strong US demand and continued to rebound strongly from the impact of hurricanes Irma and Maria in late 2017, a challenge which the region unfortunately faces once again. North America recorded 2% growth, while Central America (+1%) showed mixed results. In South America, arrivals were down 5% partly due to a decline in outbound travel from Argentina which affected neighboring destinations.

In Africa, limited available data points to a 3% increase in international arrivals. North Africa (+9%) continues to show robust results, following two years of double-digit figures, while growth in Sub-Saharan Africa was flat (+0%).

The Middle East (+8%) saw two strong quarters, reflecting a positive winter season, as well as an increase in demand during Ramadan in May and Eid Al-Fitr in June.  

Source Markets – mixed results amid trade tensions and economic uncertainty 

Performance has been uneven across major tourism outbound markets.

Chinese outbound tourism (+14% in trips abroad) continued to drive arrivals in many destinations in the region during the first half of the year though spending on international travel was 4% lower in real terms in the first quarter. Trade tensions with the USA as well as the slight depreciation of the yuan, may influence destination choice by Chinese travelers in the short term.

Outbound travel from the USA, the world’s second largest spender, remained solid (+7%), supported by a strong dollar. In Europe, spending on international tourism by France (+8%) and Italy (+7%) was robust, though the United Kingdom (+3%) and Germany (+2%) reported more moderate figures.

Among the Asian markets, spending from Japan (+11%) was strong while the Republic of Korea spent 8% less in the first half of 2019, partly due to the depreciation of the Korean won. Australia spent 6% more on international tourism.

The Russian Federation saw a 4% decline in spending in the first quarter, following two years of strong rebound. Spending out of Brazil and Mexico were down 5% and 13% respectively, partly reflecting the wider situation of the two largest Latin American economies.

Tags: UNWTO 

Follow in the Footsteps of Van Gogh On European Waterways’ New Provence Cruise

European Waterways announced that it is offering a limited number of departures in the culturally and historically rich Provence region in the South of France aboard its Anjodi hotel barge for 2020. Sailing from Avignon to Marseillan, cruise highlights include a tour of the city of Arles, said to have inspired hundreds of paintings by artists such as Van Gogh, as well as a visit to the medieval city of Avignon with its spectacular Papal Palace – home to the city’s annual arts festival, which is the oldest in France. The dates for the Provence sailing are June 28, July 5, and October 25, 2020, with cabins available from $4,750 per person, based on double occupancy.

Pretty as a Picture

Bordering Italy and the Mediterranean Sea, Provence is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the South of France, renowned for its lush lavender fields, ancient olive groves, vast stretches of vineyards – and the many artists they inspired. Van Gogh painted 350 pictures here, attracted to the region’s vivid light and pastoral landscapes, while fellow artist Cézanne was born in Provence and spent the best part of his life translating his native surroundings to canvas.

“The beauty of the Provence countryside is legendary. Visitors instantly recognize why it held such fascination for Van Gogh and his contemporaries,” said Derek Banks, managing director of European Waterways. “In addition to the natural charm of the region, there is a great deal of historical and architectural intrigue surrounding the ancient palaces, gardens and arenas of the sun-drenched cities along the way.”

Itinerary highlights on the Anjodi Provence cruise include a visit to the medieval city of Avignon, located on the banks of the Rhône River and the former seat of Catholic popes for more than 300 years during the Middle Ages. Guests will climb the steps to the famed Rocher des Doms and its picturesque, English-style public gardens that feature numerous fountains and grottos. This is followed by a tour of the 14th century Palais des Papes, or the Pope’s Palace, considered one of Europe’s largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings.

There is also a visit to the city of Arles, where Van Gogh lived for over a year and worked alongside Paul Gauguin. Guests will explore the 1st century Roman Arena, the St. Trophime Basilica and the museum of Provencal life. Cruising a little farther through the wetlands of the Camargue National Park, renowned for its pink flamingos and white wild horses, Anjodi will moor at the walled city of Aigues Mortes. One of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities, Aigues Mortes was the port from which many crusaders embarked for the holy land in the 13th century. Here guests can visit the 12th century Constance Tower and enjoy dinner at one of the town’s many local restaurants specializing in regional cuisine.

A Taste of the Mediterranean

Provence’s culinary traditions are also on full display on the Provence cruise. European Waterways’ guests will tour the famous Chateau Neuf du Pape vineyards and indulge in a private tasting at a renowned wine maker. Fresh oysters with a sea view are also on the menu as the cruise continues across the Thau Lake to Villeneuve les Maguelones, with the boat mooring just a short walk to a Mediterranean beach. This is followed by a tour of the 12th century Cistercian Abbey of Valmagne, a former Benedictine monastery and one of the oldest vineyards in the region. Afterwards guests will stop at a local oyster farm for some fresh seafood and a glass of Picpoul de Pinet, a delightful white grape which has been grown near the Thau Lake for centuries.

For food lovers, the 8-passenger Anjodi is an attraction in itself, having appeared numerous times on Rick Stein’s French Odyssey, a popular television series that followed the famous chef on his culinary adventures through France.

“Onboard, guests can be assured of ‘Rick Stein-standard’ cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients that include fresh seafood from the nearby Mediterranean,” said Banks “The Anjodi cruise is the perfect way to appreciate art, be it the culinary creations served at the dining table each evening, or the marvelous Roman architecture and sweeping natural vistas that have inspired artists for centuries.”

Tags: European Waterways

Marriott International to Debut the W Hotels Brand in Toronto next year

Marriott International has signed an agreement with Larco to bring W Hotels’ bold design, signature Whatever/Whenever® service and innovative programming to Toronto for the first time, underscoring growing demand for luxury in Canada and the brand’s boundary-breaking approach to design.

The 9-story, 255-room property located at 90 Bloor Street East in Toronto’s fashionable Yorkville neighborhood, will be surrounded by high-end boutiques, galleries, and design studios as well as chic cafes, polished bars, and fine-dining restaurants. The $40 million design transformation the property’s guest rooms, restaurants and amenities. The property is expected to open as W Toronto in Summer 2020.

“We are applying a unique, vibrant sensibility to the upcoming W Toronto, one that has not been seen before in Toronto,” said Paul Cahill, Area Vice President, Eastern Canada for Marriott International. “The exciting evolution of this property into Toronto’s first W hotel is consistent with the ongoing evolution of this Toronto neighborhood whose vibrancy, sophistication, and density continues to grow. This is a strategic location for the brand, and we foresee it welcoming international business and leisure travelers, but also becoming a destination for urban thrill-seekers.”

W Toronto will redefine modern luxury in Toronto, taking inspiration from social, historical and physical insights and embedding elements of each into the rooms and public spaces. Upon entering the hotel, guests will be immersed in modern biophilia and laboratory-style experience, that leads to breath-taking indoor/outdoor spaces, perfect for soaking in spectacular sunsets and sounds.

When it opens, W Toronto is expected to feature multiple food and beverage venues including an indoor/outdoor lobby bar and lounge equipped with a DJ booth/recording studio for collaborating, broadcasting and recording podcasts; a specialty restaurant and a 9th floor rooftop restaurant, accessible from street level with a glass exterior elevator; and a unique coffee and cocktail bar. W Toronto will also feature a 3,300 square foot fitness facility and 4,800 square feet of meeting space to serve as a unique venue for social and corporate events.

W Toronto will embody the brand’s signature work hard, play hard philosophy, with FUEL-focused activities (fitness and wellness programming) including weekly workouts, healthy and delicious cuisine and amazing adventures powered by the W brand mantra of DETOX. RETOX. REPEAT.

This signing also underscores Marriott’s growing luxury portfolio in Canada, where the company now has 7 open luxury hotels along with additional luxury hotel projects expected to be announced before year-end.

Tags: Marriott International  W Hotels

The Merrion unveils a new spa and health club in Dublin

NEW YORK - Recognized as one of the finest luxury hotels in Dublin, The Merrion has unveiled its latest offering, The Merrion Spa and Health Club. Replacing the hotel's smaller original spa, the brand-new spa spreads across the hotel's lower ground floor. It features six treatment rooms, a steam room and sauna, gym and the original 60-foot infinity pool with its iconic hand-painted mural backdrop. Additionally, the club houses a new salon operated by award-winning hairdresser, Ciaran Nevin, and physiotherapy services from Milltown Physiotherapy and Personal Training.

Designed by Georgian interiors expert, Alice Roden - whose work is evident throughout the Merrion - this is a tranquil sanctuary where the highest standard of wellness and elegant design create a private retreat amid the hustle and bustle of the city. Neutral colors, soft Irish fabrics and delicate lighting create a calming space for hotel guests.

With some of the world's leading brands and Ireland's key professionals as partners, The Merrion Spa and Health Club offers an all-encompassing service, including a new partnership with the globally renowned French skincare brand Biologique Recherche. Signature treatments will also be available from luxurious skincare brand ESPA. 

The Vitality Club Bar area is the ideal space for relaxing after a treatment and sampling a 'Mean Greens' juice or herbal tea. Alternatively, guests can enjoy a glass of sparkling wine in the relaxation room, wrap up in an Urban Aran blanket and admire the artwork.

Hours of Opening:
The Merrion Spa and Health Club:

• 6:30am - 9:00pm Monday through Friday
• 8:00am - 9:00pm Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays

Treatment Times:

• 9:30am - 8:30pm Monday through Friday
• 10:00am - 7:30pm Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays

Tags: Dublin, The Merrion, The Merrion Spa and Health Club

Ferretti Group presents 3 World Premières at Cannes Yachting Festival

Ferretti Group participates the 42nd edition of the Cannes Yachting Festival which takes place from 10th to 15th September 2019 on the enchanting backdrop of the Côte d’Azur, with 3 world premières for the Ferretti Yachts, Wally and Riva brands, flanked by a fleet of 22 additional models.

The new models of the Group that will make their official debut on the Cannes Croisette are Ferretti Yachts 720 48 Wallytender and a new Riva yacht that will be revealed for the first time on the occasion of the Festival. These models will be accompanied by the new Custom Line 106 ’and Riva 90’ Argo presented in Venice and Miami respectively. In Cannes, Ferretti Group will also present the restyling of Ferretti Yachts 920 PURE.

FERRETTI YACHTS 720 – The comfort of a villa on the sea

Ferretti Yachts 720 gives birth to high-end sailing, an unprecedented experience of luxury, comfort, and well-being never seen before. Created in tandem by Ferretti Group’s Product Strategy Committee and Engineering Department, Ferretti Yachts 720 is the second project to sport an exterior designed by architect Filippo Salvetti in collaboration with Ferretti Group. The interior design, on the other hand, was created by the Group’s own architects and designers. Numerous elements immediately grab the attention, starting from the eye-catching aerodynamic design with its sporty and harmonious lines that have become a signature of the Ferretti Yachts fleet. 

In keeping with the innovation process implemented on recent models, the external forward area stands out for its spacious, interchangeable living areas. The generous 30m² flybridge, in carbon fiber and composite materials, is surmounted by a hardtop. The aft swimming platform, a true terrace on the sea with convertible chaise longues and ample storage, can house a tender up to 3.95 meters in length.

The interiors of Ferretti Yachts 720 perfectly embody those concepts of well-being and home-like comfort that have become a hallmark of the brand. A large open-plan space is organized into three zones: the living area, the raised dining area, and the helm station integrated with the Naviop-Simrad LOOP systems and the electro-hydraulic steering system, developed in partnership with XENTA. The lower deck features a 4-cabin layout: the full-beam owner’s suite occupying a generous 20 square meters, two double cabins with separate beds and one VIP cabin.

Preliminary Data:

• Engines:
o 2 x MAN V8 - 1200 mhp (std)
o 2 x MAN V12-1400 mhp (opt)
• Loa: 22,3 m - 73 ft. 3 in.
• Lh: 21,0 m. - 69 ft. 0 in.
• Maximum beam: 5,6 m - 18 ft. 4 in.

CUSTOM LINE 106’ – A made-to-measure marvel

Custom Line 106’ embodies a new horizon in perfection, with meticulously clean-cut lines and large spaces steeped in simple sophistication, offering unparalleled comfort for the owner. It is a new addition to the planing range, a product of the partnership between the Francesco Paszkowski Design studio, the Ferretti Group's Engineering Department and the Product Strategy Committee. A minimalist design spans the interior and exterior, while the surfaces merge into each other in a display of architectural balance that breaks down the boundaries between the spaces. The large, interconnected floor surfaces (220 m² in total) are another distinguishing feature of the Custom Line 106’.

From the garage, a tender of up to 5.45 meters and a three-person jet ski can be lowered into the water. The forward area is even bigger than on other recent models: on the raised central island there are sofas and upholstered seating with reclining backrests and on the bow area there is a large sun pad spanning a total of 36 m² (387 square feet). There is also an additional garage for a Williams 2.80 Jet or a three-person jet ski.

The interiors of the main deck are bathed in natural light thanks to the large, full-height windows. The full-beam master cabin is in the foredeck and there are four standard cabins on the lower deck: two VIP cabins amidships and two twin ones forward, all with separate bathrooms. The entire interior design scheme in this first unit has been customized to cater perfectly to the requirements of the owner, in accordance with Custom Line’s famous tailor-made style.

Preliminary data

• Engines:
o 2 x MTU 16V 2000 M86 potenza 2217 mhp / 1630 kW a 2450 giri/min std
o 2 x MTU 16V 2000 M96L potenza 2638 mhp / 1939 kW a 2450 giri/min opt

• Loa: 32,82m /107 ft. 8 in.
• Lh: 32,82m /107 ft. 8 in.
• Maximum beam: 7,30m 23 ft. 11 in.

RIVA 90’ ARGO – The new myth of beauty and innovation

90’ Argo is the latest fantastic Riva flybridge. A mythological name, a futuristic design and extremely hi-tech on-board solutions: the Riva 90’ Argo combines and enhances the strengths of its two Riva predecessors, the 100’ Corsaro and 110’ Dolcevita, while revealing its own distinctive, enchanting personality. Born from the partnership between Officina Italiana Design (the studio founded by designer Mauro Micheli together with Sergio Beretta) and the Ferretti Group’s Product Strategy Committee (headed by engineer Piero Ferrari) and Engineering Department , the new Riva 90’ Argo with a length of 28.49 meters (93’6’’) and a beam of 6.50 metres (21’4’’), stands out for the 90’ Argo is the latest fantastic Riva flybridge. A mythological name, a futuristic design and extremely hi-tech on-board solutions: the Riva 90’ Argo combines and enhances the strengths of its two Riva predecessors, the 100’ Corsaro and 110’ Dolcevita, while revealing its own distinctive, enchanting personality. Born from the partnership between Officina Italiana Design (the studio founded by designer Mauro Micheli together with Sergio Beretta) and the Ferretti Group’s Product Strategy Committee (headed by engineer Piero Ferrari) and Engineering Department , the new Riva 90’ Argo with a length of 28.49 metres (93’6’’) and a beam of 6.50 meters (21’4’’), stands out for the exterior design; its large hull windows, the long, full-height glazed windows on the deck and the lateral structures with glass surfaces at the stern, which further enhance the aerodynamics of the profile.

This new generation of flybridge offers very generous spaces: on the one hand, it offers a new configuration of the cockpit, more than 30m², which boasts a new layout that enables it to be used not only for socializing or taking it easy, but also for dining; on the other hand, it offers a double master cabin that in addition to the full-beam 30m Master Suite located on the main deck includes the 20m² aft cabin on the lower deck, which is effectively a second full-beam master suite that makes guests feel like real owners.

Preliminary data

• Engines:
o 2 x MTU 12V 2000 M96L potenza 1948 mhp / 1432 kW a 2450 giri/min std
o 2 x MTU 16V 2000 M84 potenza 2218 mhp / 1630 kW a 2450 giri/min opt
o 2 x MTU 16V 2000 M96 potenza 2435 mhp / 1790 kW a 2450 giri/min opt

• Loa: 28,49m. /93 ft. 6 in.
• Lh: 23,98m. /78 ft. 8 in.
• Maximum beam: 6,50m. 21 ft. 4 in.

48 Wallytender – Iconic design

Stylishly combining form with function, the 48 Wallytender retains the avant-garde design and thrilling performance that have made Wallytender a modern classic, but adds innovative new features. The most noticeable development is the large interior volume offering a complete suite. The challenge here was to raise the freeboard without losing the purity of the hull lines associated with all Wally yachts.

The standard fold-down bulwark sections increase the size of the swim platform, which is served by a retractable passarelle, also offered as a standard, that doubles as swim ladder. On deck, the layout has been designed to maximize the on-the-water enjoyment and let family and friends relax in convivial comfort by sinking into the generous seating and sunbeds, and enjoy alfresco dining thanks to the well-equipped galley unit. While under way, the aft seating can be configured to face forward, or to face the dining table when at anchor. A special anchoring system is hidden behind a flush-fitting hatch in the bow and can be operated at the touch of a button from the helm station. The trademark wraparound fender provides a practical docking solution instead of bulky fenders. The standard propulsion package comprises twin Volvo IPS 650 engines (totalling 960hp) for a top speed of 38 knots and a user-friendly joystick to simplify manoeuvring.

Preliminary data

• Engines:
2 x VOLVO PENTA IPS 650 (total 960 hp)
• Loa: 14.50 m
• Maximum beam: 4.40 m

Adventure tourism in Israel attracting millions of tourists globally

Beyond Israel’s most popular tourist attractions – such as Jerusalem’s Old City, the Dead Sea and Tel Aviv’s White City – the diverse country has lush forests to the north and a vibrant desert to the south, offering ample opportunities for adventure travelers to explore. Whether visitors are looking to rappel off an arch into a great and beautiful abyss, hike cross country or swim among the dolphins, adventure tourism in Israel is booming.

Spanning only 263 miles, adventure-seekers will appreciate Israel’s offerings for adventurers of every level and interest, whether they are traveling north, south, east or west.

In the North

• Rappelling at Keshet Cave: Keshet Cave, one of the lesser known rappelling sites in Israel, offers a beautiful view of Israel from the highest point in the Western Galilee, with a vista that extends to the Mediterranean Sea, Akko, Haifa and the entire Galilee. Travelers will rappel off the high natural stone arch through the air and down 130 – 165 feet with an amazing panoramic view.

• Skiing in Golan Heights: Israel isn’t known for having snow, but during the winter months, avid skiers have the opportunity to enjoy their favorite sport and jump slopes at the Mount Hermon Ski Resort in the Golan Heights. Mount Hermon has 14 ski runs and 5 chair lifts attracting about 300,000 visitors between January and March.

• Bird Watching: Bird-watching enthusiasts will love this nature reserve, as 500 million migrating birds pass through Hula Valley Nature Reserve wetlands each year. In the springtime you can find more than 390 different species of birds passing through and stopping in this valley, which truly makes for a magical site to see.

• Hot air balloon ride – If adrenaline isn’t calling out to you, enjoy a leisurely Hot Air Balloon ride in the Jazreel Valley as you watch the sun rise over the horizon with champagne breakfast

In the South

• Sand Boarding: With a significant part of Israel is covered by desert, travelers can jeep across the dunes in the Negev Desert. Throughout the area are a variety of clear and suitable sand dunes that are perfect for sand surfing.

• Swimming with Dolphins: The famous Dolphin Reef in Eilat is an ecological site that is a natural habitat for dolphins, allowing animal-lovers to get up close and swim along with the dolphins as they enjoy the beautiful coral reef.

• Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, Eilat’s coral reef is one of Israel’s most popular areas for snorkeling and scuba diving. Home to over 250 coral species and more than 1,200 fish species, travelers can expect to see a variety of turtles, rays, butterfly fish, parrotfish, octopus, lionfish and more. Perfect for families with kids, the Underwater Observatory Park allows visitors to explore its marine life 40 feet below the surface with two submerged observation decks.

• Tandem skydiving – Enjoy a birds’ eye view of the Mediterranean, Dead or Red Sea when you go skydiving in Israel

• Rappelling on the cliffs of the world’s largest natural crater – The Ramon Crater in Israel’s Negev Desert is the world’s largest natural erosion crater or makhtesh. Go rappelling on the cliffs of the crater, camel ride or horseback ride along its rim or hop on a jeep tour and head to Bio Ramon, home to 40 species of desert wildlife. Sleep beneath the stars at the only campsite in the makhtesh, Be’erot campground, to experience Bedouin hospitality in its true spirit

Cross-Country

• Hiking the Israel National Trail: Covering Israel from top to bottom, hikers will traverse a wide range of landscapes as they trek roughly 683 miles from north to south and east to west. From the green hills of the Galilee to the orange desert in the Negev, backpackers will enjoy all the beauty Israel has to offer. Wadis are magnets for hikers and bikers alike and canyons are ideal for wild ibex and gazelle sightings. Alternatively, cycle on the Dead Sea shore or the Nahal Pratzim River Valley Trail that offers stunning mountain scenery and a possible stop in the Flour Cave, a definite thrill as it is spookily white inside

• ATV or Jeep Tours: ATV and Jeep tours offer thrill-seekers the opportunity to explore Israel in style, whether they want to explore the Golan, the Galilee, the Judean or Negev deserts. Each tour is custom tailored to leave every traveler speechless as they explore the adventurous side of Israel. Take a jeep tour to Timna Park in Eilat, home to the world’s first copper mine, with beautiful hikes in the Red Canyon.

• Windsurfing and Kitesurfing: A popular activity in Tel Aviv, Eilat and the Sea of Galilee, travelers have the opportunity to experience this favorite sport in different conditions. Beginners can take a course at the prestigious windsurfing and kitesurfing school north of Tel Aviv.

• White water rafting – True adrenaline rush can be experienced while rafting on the River Jordan with incredible rapids that have narrow passages bordered by overhanging trees. If the rapids are too intense, one can go water-skiing, stand-up paddle boarding, surfing, parasailing or enjoy a number of water activities all year round in the Mediterranean, the Red Sea and the Sea of Galilee.

Tags: Israel, Tourism

The number of players active in tours and activities, while already large, continues to increase

In this study about the market of Tours & Travel Activities, TourScanner aims to identify travel trends in the sector of tours and travel activities. The two sections of the report analyze:
1. The market and the geographical distribution of the offering.
2. The behavior of the user through the analysis of the transactions.

The market of Tours & Travel Activities includes all of the activities that travelers do while on vacation, which excludes transportation, accommodation, and meals. It encompasses all of the sightseeing activities, attractions, museums, outdoor, food experiences, day trips, shows, and wellness.

According to Phocuswright, Skift and Eyes for Travel, the total market of T&A is worth between US$150B and US$200B and it is growing at about 9% per year, making it the third-largest travel segment after flights and hotels. According to Phocuswright and Arival, the percentage of bookings made online still sit below 30% but continues to grow at a rapid rate.

In the last few years, there have been many companies that have improved the back-end technologies behind this sector, providing leeway for instant pricing, availability, booking, and confirmation.

Tags: TourScanner

The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre hosts high-profile US-based events

The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre’s growing traction with the North American meetings market continues to blossom after hosting a recent immersive educational for AMC (Association Management Companies) Institute, and two high-profile US-based association events this year, the 29th International Congress for Conservation Biology 2019 and Asia Turbomachinery & Pump Symposium (ATPS) Industry Summit 2019.

This solid investment in growing partnerships with North American based associations continues to gain momentum with four major bid wins that will culminate at the Centre next year, including the 19th International Congress on Infectious Diseases (ICID) 2020; World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) World Congress 2020; Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers’ (ICANN) 68th Asia Pacific Public Meeting 2020; and Asia Turbomachinery & Pump Symposium (ATPS) 2020.

The venue also recently won three US-based association bids from the oil & gas and education sectors to be held between 2020 and 2023.

The Centre’s General Manager, Alan Pryor, shared, “The US is one of the key target markets under our global industry engagement and business development programme and we have consistently invested in North America to help drive our business opportunities and expand in-market reach.”

He continued, “This year we have really built on that momentum. We are delighted that AMC Institute accepted our invitation to experience Malaysia’s diversity and warm hospitality. It was great to spend time exchanging ideas, exploring business collaboration and providing a platform for local associations to gain international insights on association management and global trends.

A first-hand experience is the most valuable tool to create global ambassadors who can influence and address perceptions in market, creating passionate advocates who can engage audiences that are normally beyond our reach.”

One such example is Association Management Ltd, President, Molly Lopez, CAE, who, following her engaging experience in Kuala Lumpur said, “The country’s beauty and the warm personalities, culture and hospitality of the people in Malaysia exceeded all expectations. My immersive experience was eye opening. The food was beautiful, creative and delicious, and the service was impeccable. In a very short period of time, I have become a champion for Kuala Lumpur!”

Another new advocate, SmithBucklin, Executive Vice President, Michael Payne, echoed Molly’s comments, “The city, the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre and just the overall immersive visit was truly a first-class experience. The flexibility offered by the Centre, the level of service provided, overall quality of the facility and excellent food made it one of the more attractive and best Convention Centre’s I’ve seen. The ease of connectivity, wide spread use of English and overall competitive pricing, as well as the convenience and quality of the surrounding hotels make it an incredible offering.”

Attendees at IMEX America 2019, which is the 9th consecutive edition the Centre has attended, are welcome to visit Booth B4028 to learn more about its exciting expansion, the fantastic business event opportunities available in Malaysia and why the venue is the perfect business events partner.

Tags: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre

Finnair announces its first Signature Menu Chef in the United States

Finnair has teamed up with Chicago-based Chef David Posey for its newest Signature Menu collaboration. The Chef Owner of Elske partnered with Finnair to curate dishes of Nordic-inspired flavors which are to be served in business class on all long-haul flights departing the United States starting today.  

Posey opened Elske in 2016 after working in the kitchens of some of Chicago’s most renowned restaurants. Elske is a modern American restaurant with Scandinavian influence, paying homage to Posey’s Danish roots and offering thoughtful and flavorful Nordic cuisine. Throughout his tenure at Elske, Posey and the restaurant have received wide acclaim, including a Michelin Star in 2017 and 2018 and being named a James Beard finalist in the ‘Best Chef: Great Lakes’ category in 2018. 

Posey’s Signature Menu for Finnair was inspired by his Scandinavian heritage, aligning with the airline and its Nordic influences. With delicious items like a root vegetable appetizer and pork neck entree, the first business class menu inspired by Chef David Posey will incorporate classic and simple ingredients to provide bold flavors.  

“I am thrilled to partner with Finnair to bring a modern take on classic Nordic cuisine to business class passengers,” says Chef David Posey on his collaboration with Finnair. “I wanted to provide a taste of Scandinavia through fresh, seasonal dishes that embrace authentic flavors and I’m excited to share some of my favorite traditional recipes in such a unique way.” 

“We are very honored to introduce David Posey as our first Signature Chef from the United States,” says Maarit Keranen, Head of Inflight Food & Beverage concepts. “Cuisine is an important part of Nordic culture and something we prioritize at Finnair when considering inflight services. Thanks to his acclaimed work and his Danish background, we’re confident that Chef Posey’s menu items will enhance the passenger experience and provide something special, unique and delicious for our customers on their journey to the Nordics.”  

Finnair started its Signature Chef program in 2013 and has since worked with a series of acclaimed chefs from Finland, Japan, China and Korea, who have all created their own Signature Menus for Finnair’s business class. Posey’s first specialty menu for business class is now available onboard all of Finnair’s flights departing the Unites States and the collaboration will be in effect until March 2021.

Tags: Finnair