Starfish Travel Corporation Team

To speed up the creation and adoption of digital identities for travel, SITA announced a co-innovation agreement with Indicio, the industry pioneer in open-source verifiable data technology and trusted digital ecosystems. SITA and Indicio, two market leaders in their respective industries, are advancing open-source, decentralised identity technologies that allow for efficient, secure, and privacy-preserving operations both inside airports and throughout the entirety of a journey. Passengers can securely create a digital replica of their physical passport in accordance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards thanks to the development of digital identities or Digital Travel Credentials (DTC). The passenger’s mobile wallet stores the DTC as a verifiable credential. This means that while travelling, travellers retain control over their personal data and give their consent to share it as necessary with various entities. Passengers arrive at the airport prepared to fly with all document checks already completed because only necessary passenger data is shared prior to travel. Since ownership can be automatically and repeatedly verified, the technology has been developed to ensure authenticity and integrity, reducing the likelihood of fraud. The deal comes after a fruitful partnership in which this technology was tested with the government of Aruba. A streamlined procedure that did not require manually entering data from paper travel documents was used by passengers arriving at Queen Beatrix International Airport to apply for their travel authorization. Passengers could then give their consent using a DTC to share any pertinent data with multiple parties directly from their mobile device’s digital wallet, including the government at the port of entry and other touchpoints like hotels or car rental agencies. The adoption of digital identities will represent the biggest technological advance in the travel sector in decades, according to Jeremy Springall, SVP of SITA AT BORDERS. Every step of the identification process will be made simpler, and it will allow the air transport sector to fully benefit from seamless travel and the digital economy. SITA and Indicio are honoured to be driving the effort. Indicio CEO Heather Dahl stated: “Over the past three years, we’ve worked together to advance this technology with a shared vision for what it can do. It is difficult to understate just how significant SITA’s leadership has been in the field of open-source verifiable credential technology and decentralised identity. And we were fulfilled . Now that the horizon has widened, a wide range of applications are available. We will make all of these applications a reality for travellers, flight crew, airports, borders, hotels, and governments with SITA’s DTC utilising Indicio ProvenTM technology. We are eager to see what this partnership can create and accomplish. Source- Travel daily

Three artists, three extraordinary train rides. Taking The Ghan, Indian Pacific, or Great Southern across Australia from three different perspectives. At Adelaide Parklands Rail Terminal in Adelaide, where each of the rail journeys starts, ends, or in the case of the Indian Pacific, pauses on their way through, these journeys served as the inspiration for the artwork in an exhibition that is being held throughout August. The exhibition, which is being presented by Journey Beyond as a part of the South Australian Living Arts (SALA) festival, is free and open to the public every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday in August from 1-4pm. The artworks will be offered for online bidding by art and rail enthusiasts in South Australia and elsewhere, with the majority of the proceeds going to charities chosen by each of the artists. Australia’s landscapes, according to David Donald, Executive General Manager, Rail at Journey Beyond, “are as varied as they are large.” “It’s inspiring to see how three different artists have interpreted the story of Australia in The Ghan, Indian Pacific, and Great Southern, which each tell the tale of Australia. I’m thrilled to extend an invitation to anyone who enjoys art or taking trains to visit Adelaide Parklands Terminal to see this outstanding exhibition or to browse the artwork available for bidding online, knowing that the money raised will benefit other Australians. The train journeys of each artist taking part in The Art of Rail have been interpreted in a variety of ways. An impressionist painter named Roscoe Shelton rode The Ghan across the dusty red earth of central Australia from Darwin to Adelaide. Roscoe took up painting later in life after having a career full of colour and tales, and he now uses it to transport you to a different reality through his work. As his preferred charity, Roscoe has suggested Rotary Adelaide. Rotary Adelaide is one of 1.4 million leaders and problem-solvers worldwide who collaborate with various communities to bring about long-lasting change. Mali Isabel is an Adelaide-based Arabana and Kokatha artist who resides and works on Kaurna land. Mali travelled from Brisbane to Adelaide during the summertime on the Great Southern, gliding past picturesque coastal landscapes under clear skies. Mali uses modern dot paintings that feature every colour of the rainbow to spread her message of equality and positivity and to spark meaningful dialogue. The Healing Foundation has been proposed by Mali as her chosen charity. The Stolen Generations survivors’ voices and lived experiences are amplified by The Healing Foundation, a national organisation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Artist Luke Rabl produces work in a variety of media, including ceramics, paintings, and illustrations. Themes range from the whimsical and eclectic to abstract landscape images that emotionally engage the viewer. Luke used the colour schemes and textural qualities of the Australian landscape he saw during this journey as inspiration as he travelled across the continent on the Indian Pacific from Sydney to Perth, stopping to eat in the middle of nowhere under a blanket of stars. Luke has suggested GIVIT, a national nonprofit group that uses an online platform to match generosity with real need. GIVIT CEO Sarah Tennant expressed her excitement to be a part of the Art of Rail project. Due to the rising cost of living, the recovery from natural disasters, domestic and family violence, or homelessness, the needs of vulnerable people throughout Australia have more than doubled in the last 12 months, according to data from the GIVIT platform. Mali Isabel, Roscoe Shelton, and Luke Rabl are all artists, and we are so appreciative of their support of the vital work we do across the nation. On August 1 and running through August 31, the Adelaide Parklands Terminal will host the Art of Rail exhibition. All Australians have access to the exhibition through the online auction platform. Source- Travel daily

Australia’s largest festival, Vivid Sydney, is seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) for its 2024 event schedule after breaking attendance records in 2023. More than 3.28 million people visited Vivid Sydney in 2023 to take in the program’s 300+ light, music, idea, and food events. As of right now, anyone who wants to be a part of the 2024 programme and share the unifying, creative vision of “Vivid Sydney, Humanity” is invited to do so. As part of an event that exemplifies Sydney’s status as the major events capital of the Asia Pacific, Vivid Sydney, according to Steve Cox, CEO of Destination NSW, presents an extraordinary opportunity for those in the creative sector to showcase their talents to a large and far-reaching audience. According to Cox, “Vivid Sydney is a globally recognised event that combines creativity, innovation, and technology through the eyes of local and international talent in our magnificent Harbour City.” “There is no other city in the world that could host this festival in the same manner. Vivid Sydney has become an icon in its own right thanks to the special fusion of location and creativity, and it is an excellent example of how the arts, culture, and creative industries can come together to create unforgettable visitor experiences that draw people to the city repeatedly, according to him. Cox said, “I strongly encourage all creatives in the arts, music, thought, and food to express their interest in being a part of Vivid Sydney 2024. The Light, Music, Ideas, and Food pillars of Vivid Sydney 2024 are now accepting Expressions of Interest (EOI). Ideas, Music, and Food EOIs will close on September 18, 2023, and Light and Cross Art Form EOIs will close on August 21, 2023. In order to submit their ideas, designs, concepts, and interest for inclusion in the festival schedule, artists, designers, creative industry professionals, equipment suppliers, architects, engineers, businesses, restaurants, event companies, chefs, producers, and educational institutions can do so through the Vivid Sydney EOI. Source- Travel biz

According to the summer 2023 Global Rescue Travellers Sentiment and Safety Survey, travellers are planning multiple trips in 2023. According to Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies and member of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board, “half of the world’s most seasoned travellers are planning four or more trips this year, and they’re using credit card reward points to help pay for them.” One-fifth of those polled said they would take six or more vacations in 2023, while 31% said they would take four to five leisure trips and 41% said they would take two to three. Only 7% of respondents said they would take a single vacation, and 1% said they would not take any vacations at all in 2023. It’s not surprising that the majority of respondents (64%) said they used credit card reward programmes to reduce the cost of vacations and leisure travel due to inflation and rising travel costs. Travellers are making up for missed opportunities to travel because of the pandemic. Since COVID-19, the demand for adventure tourism has skyrocketed, with African safaris, hiking excursions, camping trips and motorbike tours seeing the fastest growth. However, the survey found that travellers’ willingness to take risks has a limit. Even if they could afford to pay half a million dollars for a few minutes of weightlessness, the vast majority of respondents (75%) would opt out of space travel. 65% of respondents indicated that they would go on snorkelling or scuba diving tours to see shipwrecks, underwater caves, reefs, and other marine life. Only 5% of people say they would visit an underwater hotel or eat at an underwater eatery. Less than 2% of people would sign up for a submarine tour of the deep sea. In an increasingly interconnected and globalised world, travellers are demonstrating a growing desire for authentic experiences, according to Richards. Although pent-up demand is contributing to the adventure travel boom, we don’t anticipate it to slow down anytime soon. In 2023, the majority (61%) of travellers will be using a guide, an outfitter, or an expedition company as more people plan multiple trips and return to travel. “Respondents consistently indicated they include on-the-ground experts on their trips to reap the benefits of their local language skills, cultural knowledge, touring efficiency, and overall safety,” said Matt Aubin, associate director of Global Rescue partner and channel programmes. Source- Travel daily

The 29th International Congress on Sound and Vibration (ICSV29), which will be held at the Hilton Prague hotel in the Czech Republic from July 9–13, 2023, is being organised by the International Institute of Acoustics and Vibration (IIAV) and the Society of Acoustics (Czech Republic). There were 727 abstracts submitted from 45 different countries overall this year. The 14 themes that made up the scientific programme each had structured sessions and regular sessions. The ICSV29 featured a sizable exhibition of noise and vibration control technologies, equipment, and instruments for sound and vibration measurement for the world’s acoustic-and-vibration experts. MTG actively participated as an exhibitor at the extensive international Congress exhibition of noise and vibration control technologies along with its longtime partner Sinus Messtechnik GmbH. Source- Travel daily

The renowned and delicious Farm-to-Fork Festival in Sacramento is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, and it will continue to serve up delicious farm-fresh food and amazing music. The festival, which is free to attend and runs from September 22 to 23, invites everyone to stop by and sample a little bit of Sacramento. Since its inception, the Farm-to-Fork festival has combined excellent music with equally excellent food, and 2023 will be no different. Ben Harper & the Innocent Criminals and Cannons will play free concerts on Sacramento’s Capitol Mall, and local chefs Sean Rumery, Craig Takehara, and Rebecca Campbell will share their expertise and some delectable cuisine. Beginning on September 22 on Capitol Mall, free performances by Ben Harper & the Innocent Criminals, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Cannons, Danielle Ponder, Eric Gales, and Zia Victoria will be part of the festival’s musical lineup for 2023. In addition to choosing from more than a mile’s worth of street vendors who come to the festival to share food made from the freshest local ingredients, attendees can also enjoy the music. Beginning in 2013, Sacramento’s Farm-to-Fork festival honours the area’s outstanding cuisine and agriculture. Because Sacramento is surrounded by fertile farmland, it has earned the title of America’s farm-to-fork capital. The festival introduces attendees to the chefs, farmers, ranchers, vintners, and brewers who daily supply the city’s tables with delectable fare and beverages. The Legends of Wine tastings, 40 carefully chosen wineries set up in front of the State Capitol, welcome visitors to sample delicious wine from across the region, frequently poured by the makers themselves, along with selections of cheese and other bites to go with them. In addition to food and music, the festival also highlights the region’s vineyards and wineries. Source- Travel daily

Mobile app technology is being used by well-known, widely recognised tourist destinations like Knowsley Safari to improve the visitor experience. The Merseyside-based attraction wanted to improve visitor engagement while updating their digital Safari Drive experience. It is spread across 500 acres and receives more than 600,000 visitors annually. After a brief initial consultation, the North-East English company n-gage.io was hired to develop and implement a digital strategy that would improve the Knowsley Safari Drive experience while also assisting the safari park in gaining insightful information about visitor behaviour. To create and implement the attraction management software and visitor mobile app across the site, N-gage.io has been collaborating with Ian Duke, marketing manager at Knowsley Safari, and Rachel Scott, head of marketing at Knowsley Estate. Through its robust, data-driven SaaS platform and visitor app, n-gage.io, led by entrepreneur Bryan Hoare and incubated by GCV Labs, seeks to transform the visitor experience at attractions. To improve the safari park’s strategy for digital visitor engagement, n-gage.io helped launch the highly customizable visitor mobile app within a few months. The attraction is now taking advantage of new ways to engage its audience both on and off site as well as better understanding how people spend their time during a visit thanks to 1500 app downloads in the first week of launch. According to Ian Duke, “We had been looking for a solution to update our current Safari Drive mobile app technology for our visitors but found it increasingly challenging to identify industry software that gave us the customizability and control that we wanted. Like many other attractions, we had great success with our previous app, but we soon realised that it was quickly becoming obsolete due to recent technological advancements and changing visitor expectations.We chose the n-gage.io solution because of its highly customizable base app, which could reflect our website brand, and the operator platform’s feature-rich backend, which runs it and provides us with a tonne more information about audience activity on the website. Although the app itself has a tonne of interesting features, what really drew us to the software was what we could do with the platform to deliver a more interactive and educational experience. With the help of the new software, the attraction is now able to improve not only the previous safari drive experience but also develop other captivating trail experiences with triggered in-app content and park-wide notifications. “We’re able to be far more creative in our approach to on-site audience engagement because we can now manage our visitors’ interactive digital experiences on a daily basis,” Ian continued. Additionally, from an operational standpoint, we’re able to assist our visitors in better planning and managing their day, from integrating with digital ticketing to interactive mapping and wayfinding.When we update our visitor technology, it’s crucial for us to make sure that it doesn’t take away from the physical enjoyment of being with us and instead improves the overall safari experience. The park’s push for sustainability and our digital approach have made it less necessary to have as much signage and to rely as heavily on printed materials like paper maps and other printed information. “The app is our visitor’s personal safari guide and helps them learn about our animals and conservation work in more detail, bringing them closer to nature and also hopefully learning something new every time they visit.” “We’ve been delighted to work with the team at Knowsley Safari and see how our technology can make a difference, not just operationally, but the positive impact it can make across their entire safari experience,” said Bryan Hoare, founder and CEO of n-gage.io. Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park, Alameda Wildlife Conservation Park (AWCP), in Gibraltar, and Northumberland Zoo, in North East England, are already using software and mobile apps created by n-gage.io, with more zoos and wildlife parks launching soon. Source-Travel daily

The 2024 European river cruising programme from APT & Travelmarvel has gone live online and in the form of a printed brochure. It features 17 genuine, expert-led itineraries that highlight the best of the continent. One of these is a brand-new, “limited edition,” Travelmarvel springtime cruise through the Netherlands and Belgium. When reservations are made before November 30, 2023, agents will be able to close sales on some cruises by offering savings of up to £1,500 per person*. Popular itineraries are included, such as the five-star Travelmarvel Contemporary Ship cruises on the Rhine, Main, and Danube and Croatian yachting. 2024 packages consist of : – Travelmarvel’s brand-new 15-day Springtime in Netherlands and Belgium cruise, a one-time departure on April 12, 2024, and a member of the tour operator’s “limited edition” series of deluxe departures. The comprehensive itinerary starts and ends in Amsterdam and includes stops at the Delta Works, one of the most intricate modern engineering feats ever completed, and the Keukenhof Gardens, where you can take in the breathtaking display of blooming bulb flowers. The cruise starts at £3,295 per person (was £4,095, saving £1,000*), and includes flights, 14 nights of lodging aboard a Travelmarvel Contemporary River Ship, sightseeing, 41 meals with drinks, transfers, and the services of a Cruise Director. – The popular 8-day Adriatic Coastal Cruise offered by Travelmarvel, which travels by the 19-cabin Princess Eleganza motor yacht from Split to Dubrovnik. The cost of the cruise, which starts at £2,795 per person (was £3,295; you save £500*), includes round-trip airfare, seven nights of lodging on board, 17 meals with drinks, sightseeing, the services of a cruise director, and transfers. The departure window is April through September 2024. A guided tour of Dubrovnik, the Pearl of the Adriatic, will also be provided for guests. These highlights include anchoring for a swim off the idyllic island of Krk, taking in the natural beauty of Krka National Park, spending time exploring Rab, ibenik, Split, and Korula, and exploring the remote and largely uninhabited island of Vis. “Our 2024 portfolio of luxury APT and flexible four-star Travelmarvel cruises in Europe are now on sale, and early bookings from the trade have been strong,” said Brad Bennetts, Head of Sales & Business Development at APT & Travelmarvel. We have added a new, one-time Springtime sailing through the Netherlands and Belgium in addition to our perennially five-star Trustpilot-rated bestsellers, such as Delightful Danube, Reflections of the Rhine, and our ever-popular Croatia Yachting series. Source- Travel daily

Nova Scotia is a true ocean playground with 13,300 km of breathtaking coastline. Spend your days engaging in ocean activities like hiking along the coast, surfing, kayaking, or simply lounging at the beach. However, don’t let the sun setting be the end of your ocean fun. To fall asleep to the sounds of the ocean and wake up to a new day of exploration, reserve a room, cottage, or the ideal campsite near the coast. Here are just a few, which range from luxurious resorts to basic yet breathtaking camping grounds with million-dollar views: Meat Cove Campground: The Meat Cove Campground on Cape Breton Island is a great place to camp if you want to experience the true freshness of the ocean air. Awaken in your sleeping bag and keep an eye out for whale pods, soaring eagles, and breathtaking sunsets. The rustic cabins can be reserved in advance, or camp sites are first come, first served. The stunning architecture and tasteful beach motif design of the Quarterdeck Beachside Villas and Grill, which is located on a lovely but quiet stretch of white sand beach, will immediately put you in the mood for relaxation at any time of year. One of the best places on the South Shore to find locally caught, fresh seafood is The Grill. White Point Beach Resort: This all-year-round resort was named by National Geographic Traveller as one of the top 10 coastal destinations in the world. You can stay in cosy oceanfront cottages and comfortable hotel rooms. Along the 1-kilometer stretch of white sand beach, beachcombing transforms into stargazing as the day gives way to night. Visit their distinctive Oceanfront Treehouses and Glomes, which are opulent camping domes! These will make for a truly unique getaway because they are private, opulent, and close to the Atlantic Ocean. Argyler Lodge, which has a view of Lobster Bay The authentic lobster boils at Argyler Lodge, a restaurant and country inn with a view of Lobster Bay, are legendary. Sip a refreshing beverage on their sizable deck as you watch the sun set over the ocean and the numerous islands that make up Lobster Bay. Allow the sea breeze to tousle your hair. When you stay at Driftwood by the Bay, you can take in breathtaking sunsets and incredible stargazing over St. Mary’s Bay. Gaze up at the stars from the hot tub on your private deck and from your bed as you stare up through the stargazer skylight as you fall asleep to the sound of gentle waves lapping the nearby shore. LaHave Islands Glamping Adventure: Foodies will love this guided glamping adventure with everything provided when they venture out with Cape Lahave Adventures! Island hop by kayak to colourful fishing communities and along pristine coastline. Indulge in fresh seafood and local flavours prepared for you on the beach by a wilderness chef, try yoga on stand-up paddleboards, and glamp under the stars. Keltic Lodge Resort and Spa: Situated on the rugged Cape Breton coast and within the borders of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, this grand resort offers two restaurants, a spa, and heated pool onsite and is conveniently located near many sought after Cape Breton activities like Highlands Links Golf Course, hiking trails, whale watching and Ingonish Beach and Freshwater Lake. The Marmalade Motel: Located on the Eastern Shore and offering up views of the 100 Wild Islands, guests of this colourful yet cozy seaside motel will enjoy watching the sunset from their private balcony overlooking the water. Grab a snack or picnic box to go before exploring nearby trails, beaches and villages. White Point Beach Resort Driftwood by the Bay: Enjoy magnificent sunsets and epic stargazing over St. Mary’s Bay when you stay at Driftwood by the Bay. Gaze up at the stars from the hot tub on your private deck and from your bed as you stare up through the stargazer skylight as you fall asleep to the sound of gentle waves lapping the nearby shore. LaHave Islands Glamping Adventure: Foodies will love this guided glamping adventure with everything provided when they venture out with Cape Lahave Adventures! Island hop by kayak to colourful fishing communities and along pristine coastline. Indulge in fresh seafood and local flavours prepared for you on the beach by a wilderness chef, try yoga on stand-up paddleboards, and glamp under the stars. Keltic Lodge Resort and Spa: Situated on the rugged Cape Breton coast and within the borders of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, this grand resort offers two restaurants, a spa, and heated pool onsite and is conveniently located near many sought after Cape Breton activities like Highlands Links Golf Course, hiking trails, whale watching and Ingonish Beach and Freshwater Lake. The Marmalade Motel: Located on the Eastern Shore and offering up views of the 100 Wild Islands, guests of this colourful yet cozy seaside motel will enjoy watching the sunset from their private balcony overlooking the water. Grab a snack or picnic box to go before exploring nearby trails, beaches and villages. Source- Travel daily

In preparation for its centenary celebration later this year, Finnair is expanding the reach of its new enhanced long-haul experience to more places than ever. The €200 million investment is a part of a significant investment to improve the passenger experience and includes a brand-new Business Class, an exciting new Premium Economy cabin, and refreshed Economy Class. Customers flying from Helsinki to Tokyo-Narita will begin to enjoy the Nordic carrier’s award-winning cabin on August 1. Customers flying from Helsinki to Tokyo-Haneda will already enjoy the chic new interiors. Beginning on September 1, passengers on Finnair’s well-traveled route to Seoul will also benefit from the new service, and beginning on September 13, travellers who want to explore Osaka can unwind while en route in the airline’s new cabin. Beginning on August 1st, Finnair plans to begin offering its new cabins to passengers travelling on its well-liked red carpet route between Helsinki and Los Angeles. Customers flying to Chicago, Dallas, Miami, New York JFK, and Seattle have already experienced Finnair’s new elevated long-haul cabins, making Los Angeles the last American city on its network to do so. As Finnair approaches its centenary, Anssi Partanen, market director for the UK and Ireland, said: “It is wonderful to be able to bring our new cutting-edge long-haul cabin to more destinations, and customers, across the world. “This is a huge step towards our goal,” the company said. “We have been working nonstop on refitting our aircraft to ensure that even more customers can enjoy our renewed elevated experience.” Finnair plans to launch its new, roomy long-haul design this summer on 14 international routes to Asia, the US, and the Middle East. Finnair served as the first customer for the innovative Business Class seat design, which was created in close collaboration with Collins Aerospace to maximise customer space and mobility. Customers can create their own personal space in the distinctive fixed shell lounge during a comfortable long-haul flight thanks to the space’s numerous sitting and sleeping options. The warm, dark, and cosy colour scheme used in Finnair’s Business Class and Premium Economy closely resembles that of the airline’s newly renovated non-Schengen lounges, which were unveiled at Helsinki Airport just before the pandemic. The airline’s long-haul passengers now have a stylish and comfortable new cabin option thanks to the introduction of a brand-new Premium Economy cabin. The long-haul Economy Class on Finnair’s A330 and three A350 aircraft has also undergone an upgrade with new seats, larger Inflight Entertainment (IFE) screens, and a more user-friendly interface. The Nordic airline is currently reviewing its winter schedule and will soon reveal the locations where its enhanced long-haul service will be available. Source- Travel daily