Starfish Travel Corporation Team

Travel service firm Trip.com has noticed a notable increase in outbound US tourists booking flights and lodging in the UK and other parts of Europe. Despite significant worldwide inflation, Americans’ attitudes on long-haul travel to Europe are getting better. According to Trip.com flight booking data, travel from the US to the UK increased by an impressive 145% in the first half of this year. This increase in air travel demonstrates the rising demand for transatlantic travel as well as the growing curiosity of American tourists about different European places. According to hotel reservations made on Trip.com for the UK, the top three cities for US tourists are London, Edinburgh, and Manchester. With its all-in-one app strategy, Trip.com is at the forefront of enabling seamless travel experiences, and its remarkable booking growth further reaffirms its position as a top travel service provider. Data on visitors from the US to the entire continent of Europe is also positive, with flight reservations increasing by 101% during the same time period. The most frequent air arrival cities for Americans travelling to Europe are London (UK), Barcelona (Spain), Paris (France), Rome, and Milan (Italy), Athens (Greece), Lisbon, Portugal, Amsterdam, Netherlands, and Dublin, Ireland. Moreover, over the same time period, hotel reservations from the US to Europe increased by 60%.  After the outbreak, US travellers’ demand quickly recovered. VisitBritian reports that more Americans are visiting the UK than in 2019 and spending more money while there. The Trip.com Group’s Andy Washington, General Manager EMEA, shared his excitement about the upward trend in travel reservations between the US and Europe. According to him, there has been a significant uptick in transatlantic travel, as seen by the 101% increase in ticket bookings and the 60% increase in hotel reservations for Europe. “At Trip.com Group, we remain dedicated to providing exceptional service and tailored travel solutions via our mobile-first strategy, ensuring our customers, comfort and convenience,” said the company. Source- Travel daily

The wonders of this peaceful Andaman island, including exotic islands, cultural discoveries, nature tours, and more, can be fully experienced by visitors on eco-sensitive trips. One of the most alluring and fascinating islands in southern Thailand is Koh Lanta. This lush, jungle-covered gem is located in the province of Krabi on the Andaman coast, not far from popular tourist destinations like Phuket and Koh Phi Phi. Koh Lanta has still managed to hold onto its pleasantly isolated atmosphere where natural and cultural wonders continue to thrive. Pimalai Resort & Spa, a five-star haven and component of the Considerate Collection of Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH), has welcomed intrepid travellers to explore this lovely island’s bounty for more than 20 years. Visitors can choose from a variety of exciting experiences at Pimalai thanks to its knowledgeable local employees, significant community links, and a fleet of seven boats all skippered by qualified captains. There are several environmentally responsible offshore cruises available for tourists who want to explore the breathtaking seascapes of Mu Ko Lanta National Park. The “Fabulous Koh Rok” tour* takes visitors on a picturesque boat ride to two idyllic islands with powder-soft sand beaches and warm, shallow seas, while the “Koh Haa Sunset” adventure* reveals an incredible cluster of limestone islets that enclose a stunning aquamarine lagoon, a technicolour reef, and a pure white beach. Both of these excursions offer fantastic chances for swimming and snorkelling in addition to refreshing drinks. The “Emerald Cave” itinerary gives daring adventurers the chance to explore a magnificent limestone cave that shimmers and glows with a brilliant emerald tint, as suggested by its name. Before travelling to the lovely island of Koh Ngai for some sun, sea, and sand, visitors can swim in a stunning hidden lagoon and unwind on a pristine beach, surrounded by undeveloped jungle. In contrast, the “Mangroves Tour” takes tourists into the enigmatic Thung Yee Peng, a lush coastal forest teeming with unusual wildlife. With a local guide, ride a gondola boat to discover the significance of this thriving, lush ecosystem. Source: traveldailymedia

An international online travel agency called Agoda has teamed up with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) to help Thai hotels adopt sustainable tourism practices. Agoda and the GSTC are happy to announce that their successful partnership in organising the Sustainable Tourism Course will continue. This third course, held in Bangkok, Thailand, brings together Agoda, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports (MOTS), and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), building on the successes of the other ones held in Singapore and Taiwan. On July 3 and 4, the course is held at the Agoda office in Bangkok, with a number of tourism experts from Agoda’s partner hotels in attendance. “We are pleased to announce the continuation of our partnership with the GSTC and our joint initiatives with the MOTS and TAT in hosting this course in Thailand,” said Damien Pfirsch, Chief Commercial Officer of Agoda. Our joint objective is to give Thai hotel professionals the knowledge and abilities they need to adopt sustainable tourism practises, enabling them to transform their organisations and promote a more sustainable future for Thai tourism. Through in-depth content supplied by the GSTC, the Sustainable Tourism Course is intended to support hotel participants in their pursuit of sustainability goals. This course includes examples of real-world best practises from travel agencies, tour operators, and lodging providers around the world. It helps participants better comprehend the goals and key performance indicators of the GSTC Criteria and equips them with the tools they need to create and implement sustainable tourism policies and practises for their business and the locations they serve, setting them up for future GSTC certification*. Participants who successfully complete the course are given a completion certificate and are then qualified to sit for an optional official exam to earn the GSTC Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism. In order to meet the Staff Engagement Criteria A4 of the GSTC Industry Criteria for Hotels, which mandates that staff hold certificates and credentials in pertinent fields and abilities, both the course and the optional professional certificate contribute. “We’re pleased to launch our Sustainable Tourism Course in Bangkok in partnership with Agoda,” said Randy Durband, Chief Executive Officer of GSTC. Our goal is to provide business professionals with the information, resources, and tactics they need to transform their organisations. We think that by educating people, working together, and putting our ideas into action, we can rewrite the history of tourism and make it a real force for good. Our goal at GSTC is to promote this shift one professional and one course at a time. Source: traveldailymedia

An AI-based semi-autonomous voyage planning system was created and tested over the course of three years by the maritime technology company Yara Marine Technologies, Molflow, Chalmers University of Technology, and experts in social science from Halmstad University and Gothenburg University. The Via Kaizen project, which was launched in August 2020, investigates how AI and machine learning may help ship operators plan voyages that use less energy. The project, which was supported by Trafikverket, the Swedish Transport Administration, used pre-existing tools to enable a higher level of digitalization and automation in vessel operations. These included the FuelOpt propulsion optimisation system from Yara Marine, the Fleet Analytics performance management and vessel data reporting tool, and the Slipstream vessel modelling system from Molflow. In order to ensure that the technology facilitated procedures and choices that had the greatest impact on energy efficiency, user needs and current work practises at the company were examined during the design phase. The finalised technology was tested onboard two different ships: a Rederiet Stenersen product tanker and a PCTC vehicle carrier run by UECC. With one of the two trial vessels choosing to keep using the system, the varied results showed that energy efficiency optimisation based on expected time of arrival (ETA) was successful. “The Via Kaizen project speaks directly to where shipping is at the moment — where the intersections of digitalization, decarbonization, and crewing determine our success in addressing climate change,” said Mikael Laurin, Head of Vessel Optimisation at Yara Marine Technologies. For an industry striving to reduce emissions while addressing rising fuel costs, the use of AI and machine learning to plan and predict energy-efficient journeys is important. Similar to new technologies, which have the potential to expedite operations but necessitate collaboration and buy-in from all stakeholders, crew familiarisation and training, proactive design, and new corporate initiatives are all necessary. As a result, the project’s insights and information are more important for the future of our sector. The Via Kaizen project shows that applying machine-learning algorithms can lead to more precise performance predictions and optimisation for enhanced predictive modelling of ship propulsion power. It also demonstrated the importance of effective communication between ship operators and their patrons as well as between technology developers and consumers. The Via Kaizen project provided a great opportunity to investigate and expand industry understandings of the part big data, data management, and model development can play in assisting lower emission strategies and maximising fuel efficiency, according to Joakim Möller, CEO of Moflow. Recent developments in meteorological data, vessel data tracking and analysis, and other areas can be used to determine where operations could be made more efficient. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning can be crucial in processing and simplification of accessible data for clear, actionable results as the marine industry attempts to use good data to inform decision-making. The effectiveness of energy-efficient journeys was determined in large part by the crew during the testing. This demonstrates the need of providing ship crews and management with as many opportunities as possible to interact with, comprehend, and embrace the value of AI-powered ship operation support technology in helping daily operations onboard and ashore. “Maritime’s ability to successfully decarbonize is dependent on its highly skilled workforce, necessitating that we invest in creating seafarer support for digitalization and decarbonization,” Martin Viktorelius of Halmstad University said. To maximise crew acceptance and adoption of AI-powered solutions, clean technologies must prioritise simple, user-friendly interfaces and comprehend current operations. In order to investigate and identify critical factors that the crew claimed were impeding their support of trip efficiency, the Via Kaizen project engaged the crew. Simon Larsson from Gothenburg University said, “The Via Kaizen project documented potential challenges to implementing energy efficient voyages — notably, the impact of crew training and corporate processes that either facilitated or hindered the effective use of AI tools to improve efficiency. These findings are not specific to the project and have wider ramifications for an industry seeking advanced solutions to rapidly reduce emissions. While crew training will afford a much-needed bridge to build understanding and accelerate support for AI-powered voyage efficiency solutions among seafarers, it is just as important that we ensure effective channels of communication with management and corporate processes.” Following the conclusion of this project, additional funding has been secured from the Swedish innovation agency Vinnova to further explore a selection of its findings. Source: traveldailymedia

According to participating travel industry professionals, one of the many advantages of having ATAS accreditation is support through effective management and settlement of client issues. More ATAS Accredited Travel Businesses have requested expert assistance from the compliance team in the first half of 2023 than in the entire first half of 2022. If things continue as they are, the ATAS compliance team will resolve three times as many conflicts this year as they did last year. In comparison to 51 times in 2022, ATAS Accredited Businesses have called the compliance team 76 times so far this year for advice on dispute resolution. The thorough three-step dispute resolution guidelines and support offered by the knowledgeable ATAS compliance staff are only available to ATAS Accredited Businesses. According to Gianni Vitellone of Pronto Travel, “As a small, family-run agency, the support from ATAS Accreditation enables us to uphold the best levels of service for our customers. Our yearly renewal of our accreditation is perfectly justified by their assistance with questions and any prospective dispute settlement. We value your assistance greatly. “The ATAS team’s exceptional support, unwavering expertise, and invaluable guidance have been the cornerstone of our success in resolving a crucial issue regarding booking terms and conditions, including a Cruise cancellation,” stated Christian Blondeau of France at Leisure. “As an ATAS Accredited Business, we have consistently relied upon their unmatched assistance, particularly during the difficult times of the pandemic, as we navigated the process of revising our booking policies and business T & Cs,” the statement reads. In response to a cruise issue, Sharon Jones of Helloworld Travel Riverlink Ipswich said: “The ATAS team’s guidance and assistance at a time when I felt I was on my own with a cruise issue was amazing.” What actually distinguishes ATAS, according to Jennifer Franceschi of Kings Tours & Travel, is their constant dedication to the success of their members. They offered constant assistance, diligently addressing my queries and worries. They provided more than just advise; they actively collaborated with me, sharing their knowledge to support my decision-making throughout the resolution process. “ATAS Accreditation is a prime example of the value of industry cooperation and group empowerment. I fully advise any travel or help professional looking for unmatched support, knowledge, and direction to contact ATAS. Source: traveldailymedia

This season, celebrate the most alluring colours. Pink manages to capture the essence of this particular MOD Design Event in all its dazzling exuberance, timeless whimsy, and glitz. This season, MOD is focusing on its New Versailles Wedding as a way to celebrate the captivating power of pink. For the Lootah family’s exclusive and opulent wedding, a grandiose building modelled after the legendary Palace of Versailles was built. The narrative is continued inside this ivory building with a ceiling that was hand-covered in blossoming gypsum that flowed outward and merged into the custom columns with curving arches. From the fresh peonies on the coffee tables to the delicious sweets that seem to have come directly from Marie Antoinette’s royal patisserie, the event space is decorated in wavy tones of pink. While the custom-built structure that covered 17,000 square feet was hand-built at The Lootah’s family property involved on-site experts, builders, architects, and more to create an unforgettable architectural spectacle, the New Versailles ceiling that echoed waves of pink contained over eight million stems of gypsum, delicately dried, and hand-painted to embody the theme of the evening. Hand-crafted Parisian crystal chandeliers were also located inside the gleaming building, and they all reflected and mirrored light across the pink interiors in the finest crystal. The adaptability of this distinctive shade of PINK ultimately reflected the fusion of Parisian sensibilities and Arabian extravagance, which is what truly set this event apart. With never-before-seen peeks at mood boards, colour swatches, and intricate photographs that reflect the event’s complexity, we take a look behind the unusual process and creation of this project this week across our digital space. Pink is a feeling, not a colour. Source: traveldailymedia

Athens International Airport “El. Venizelos” and SKY express hosted a unique ceremony to welcome their partners and usher in the new travel season. Representatives of the largest travel agencies in the nation, the larger tourism industry, and the media were welcomed to an event co-hosted by Athens International Airport and SKY express at the Arion Veranda of the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens to celebrate and discuss the possibilities for this summer. Sky Express offers a novel method of flying travel. SKY express has operated and expanded its business in accordance with the sustainable mobility model during the course of its years of operation. This strategic choice places environmental protection at the centre of its daily operations. At the same time, traveling with SKY express, apart from a unique and personalized travel experience, is also an environmentally responsible choice for the passenger. In light of everything mentioned above, Eleanna Michalakopoulou, revenue products manager for SKY express, unveiled new goods and services that combine comfort, sustainability, and the most luxurious travel experience possible. BITES & DRINK – PREORDER The decision to use SKY express for transportation is one that the passenger can feel good about. The company’s customers choose whether and what meals they want to eat during the flight, thus they are not required to eat anything or pay for it as part of the cost of their ticket. In fact, the readily available meals don’t need to be heated, which further lowers energy requirements and the resulting carbon footprint. The new Preorder service, which eliminates food waste by allowing customers to choose and order their meal up to a few hours before the flight, will be made available alongside the updated catalogue in the coming days. The Preorder menu will be even richer and premium with special dishes and a wide variety of foods and drinks, catered to cover all the needs and eating habits of passengers. Bliss The Bliss Business class is unique. Bliss, I say. The new service will begin operating on international routes in July 2023. It will gradually cover the majority of the SKY express network and provide passengers with priority treatment at all times, free access to VIP Lounges, the ability to check additional bags and kilos in them, upscale dining options and in-flight entertainment. Forward Sky Another recent offering named SKY Forward is made available to travellers who wish to earn a specific amount of money for their annual air travel with the greatest level of freedom and flexibility. Through a very simple procedure the passenger can buy a SKY Forward package for the entire SKY express network. For example, by purchasing a package of €1,000, one pays only €800 and redeems it, wherever they want, whenever they want, on as many flights as they want and with whomever they want, simply by paying the taxes of the respective airport. It is worth noting that all new programs implemented by SKY express will now be linked to programs carried out within the framework of its corporate social mission. For this reason, these actions will always be related to a purpose to support targeted actions that respond to specific, mapped needs of the society. Therefore, part of the proceeds from said actions will be dedicated to a cause. During the event, Gerasimos Skaltsas, Chief Commercial Officer of SKY express, presented the company’s key figures during the first quarter of 2023, following a dynamic course that creates value for both Athens International Airport and all its shareholders. In detail: Total flights increased by 11% (compared to the same period in 2022) exceeding 10,000. Compared to the first quarter of 2019 (pre-Covid-19 period) the increase in flights is up to 69%. The company’s passengers increased by 50% (compared to the first quarter of 2022), reaching 730,000. Compared to the pre-pandemic period, the increase reaches 390% The total revenue of the company has increased by 73% (compared to the first quarter of 2022) reaching €48 million, driven by the higher growth of international flights. Compared to the pre-pandemic period, the increase reaches 489%. The exponential organic growth of the company’s size was supported by a strong increase in jobs that now exceed 660, with 390 new hires in the four-year period 2019-2022, which also includes the period of the pandemic. SKY express’s green fleet, which is the newest fleet in Greece and most environmentally friendly in Europe, travels to the largest network of domestic destinations (34) and to 29 international destinations in 12 countries. Of the domestic destinations, 27 are served through Athens International Airport with 5 exclusively served from/to Athens International Airport. Regarding international destinations through the “El. Venizelos”, 9 destinations in 8 countries are served. In addition, regarding the Athens International Airport “El. Venizelos”SKY express: For the fifth year in a row, it is the fastest growing airline with a market share of 13.5% in 2023, compared to 2.5% in 2019. Recorded an increase of 175% in seats on offer from / to “El. Venizelos” – compared to the corresponding summer season of 2019. This increase for the entire SKY express network corresponds to 200% Marks the 2023 summer season with a 22% increase in estimated passengers in Athens International Airport – from 1,910,000 in the summer period of 2022 to 2,330,000 in the corresponding period of 2023. Source: traveldailymedia

The breathtaking nation of Qatar is home to some amazing natural treasures that are sure to renew and revitalise visitors. While the breathtaking coastline, astounding cultural sites, and cutting-edge architecture are at their best, travellers seeking a respite from the city may discover the abundance at some of the most famous and well-known locations across the nation. Here is a list of things to do and places to visit in Qatar to get back in touch with nature and take in the beautiful scenery. Internal Sea: Khor Al Adaid Khor Al Adaid, popularly known as the “Inland Sea,” is a stunning location where the sand dunes meet the coasts of the sea. It is a UNESCO-recognized natural reserve with its own ecology. The Inland Sea is one of Qatar’s top attractions. is enjoyable to drive around, to simply observe, or to simply take in the dunes’ exhilarating 40-meter heights. Spending an afternoon in the desert, dune-bashing, stopping to ride camels along the route, and taking pictures with the nation’s fabled national bird, the falcon, are all great ways for families to make the most of this attraction. Dune Sand In Qatar, the sand dunes are a top attraction for both visitors and locals. A leisurely safari and taking in the breathtaking views in the desert are enjoyable. Mangroves of Al Thakira Mangroves at Al Thakira offer a unique contrast of flora to the parched environment. Kayaking is a significant enjoyable activity in this spot, which is surrounded by greenery that draws a variety of bird species, including herons and flamingos.Cave of Dahl Al Misfir A fascinating, 40-meter-deep gypsum-fibrous cave, the Dahl Al Misfir Cave sometimes emits a phosphorescent glow that resembles the moon. Gypsum crystals that resemble roses, or desert roses, blanket the peninsula as well. The temperature starts to drop as one enters the cave and walks along the trail. Heenat Salma Farms and North Sarda Exploring the North Sedra Farm, Qatar’s first agritourism site, is a magical experience for families. The farm has a mini zoo with various animals, including Arabian Oryx, zebra, ostrich, lama, and camels with a variety of fresh fruit and vegetables to handpick. The farm also sells top-quality Sedra honey produced in-house, in the winters. Another nature-based event that encourages social interaction and gorgeous vistas is Heenat Salma Farms. The farm attracts eco-conscious, sustainable living and farming enthusiasts who enjoy organic natural produce. Heenat currently grows around 30 different crop varieties, along with organic fruits, vegetables, dairy, eggs, honey, and meat. Source: traveldailymedia

The World Youth and Student Travel Conference (WYSTC) will take place this September, and the WYSE Travel Confederation, a non-profit membership organisation dedicated to advancing opportunities for the youth, student, and educational travel industry, has just unveiled its first influencer programme. For three days of trading, industry insights, development, and networking, WYSTC in Lisbon, Portugal, brings together more than 600 international suppliers, buyers, and service providers working in the youth and student travel business. Numerous travel influencers will have the chance to attend the conference and network with key decision-makers of youth and student travel brands and destinations thanks to the WYSTC Influencer Programme. The one-on-one business meetings give participants the chance to have focused discussions that may lead to collaborations, partnerships, and brand sponsorships with major companies in the sector. Organisations attending WYSTC will, in turn, have the opportunity to present their brand to influencers, exchange ideas, and forge connections. David Chapman, the director general of the WYSE Travel Confederation, stated that the WYSTC serves as a gathering point for the major businesses involved in youth and student travel. ‘Including an Influencer Programme is a natural step for the conference; we know that millennials and Gen Z’ers trust influencers and utilise social media as a source of inspiration when booking vacations, looking for interesting activities, or great locations to stay,’ the conference’s organisers said. Travel influencers who are invited to WYSTC not only learn more about our business, but also have the chance to form relationships with influencers who share their target demographic. Influencers who satisfy the requirements will get a free registration to WYSTC, a free four-night hotel stay in Lisbon, and assistance with their travel expenses. Additionally included are access to the entire educational programme, lunches, coffee breaks, and social events. Source: traveldailymedia

Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) has hired multi-platform technology company FOD Mobility Group to assist in the design, development, and delivery of a new, comprehensive mobility as a service (MaaS) app. The Mobilleo MaaS platform from the Yorkshire-based IT company will power the regional travel app, providing West Midlands residents and visitors access to all modes of transport in one location. The pioneering concept fits in with TfWM’s plans to provide a fresh perspective for clients going throughout the area by enhancing access to integrated transit. Users can schedule trips, get real-time travel updates, book and pay for all local transport alternatives, including taxis, Demand Responsive Transport (DRT), buses, trains, trams, e-Scooters, walking, cycling, car clubs and parking. The software provides users with the best practical, affordable, and environmentally friendly alternative for their desired destination based on their personal preferences. This is a significant step towards TfWM’s goal of providing users with access to one app and one account from any location they choose. It is intended to change public and shared transport in the West Midlands by making it quicker and simpler for users to obtain information, select more environmentally friendly modes of transport, and locate the most affordable rates. It will take the place of the current TfWM app. One account, one app, all the bases covered. TfWM is working on the initiative with a number of partners, including FOD Mobility Group, consultants Arcadis, who are offering guidance on behaviour modification, Brompton Bike Rental, and Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Car Club. Other project partners include ITO World, Euclid, and Unicard, who are in charge of integrating with TfWM’s Swift smart travel programme and who supply real-time public transport data for the West Midlands. On the development of the app, local authorities and transit service providers will also work together. The Future Transport Zone initiative of the Department of Transportation provided funding for the development.By improving the user experience, combining tickets and information, and assisting in the decarbonization of our transport systems, it is intended to achieve the objectives outlined in the Local Transport Plan. Transport for West Midlands executive director Anne Shaw stated: “TfWM is putting unprecedented investment into growing our Metro, rail, bus, and active travel networks.”Along with creating new travel options, we must carefully consider how to create smooth plan, book, and pay processes for transportation. This will promote the use of shared and public transport, active transport, and reduce the usage of private vehicles. “We want to accomplish just that with the help of this new mobility as a service platform. In order to create an app that is simple to use, practical, and economical, we are collaborating with some of the top British tech and mobility firms. Anyone searching for travel options in the West Midlands can stop here. We are excited to work on this fascinating project with FOD Mobility Group and other important partners. Justin Whitston, CEO of FOD Mobility Group, continued, “We are genuinely excited to be collaborating with TfWM on what will be an interesting and scalable mobility as a service initiative, powered by our Mobilleo platform. We look forward to delivering a novel travel strategy for the West Midlands over the long term. We are thrilled to be a partner in the project, said Oz Choudhri, head of mobility solutions for Enterprise UK and Ireland. Enterprise already has a strong presence throughout the West Midlands through our rental and car club operations.“We are certain that we will continue to expand this presence, allowing us to play a significant part in providing shared and sustainable travel. We will also be working with TfWM on a number of social value projects which will engage with residents and businesses.” Source: traveldailymedia