Travel News

Today, September 4, the main brand of dnata Travel Group UK B2B, Gold Medal, launched The Experts’ Edit 2023, a campaign that will run through the end of September. The campaign’s concept highlights a variety of international vacation packages that have been meticulously chosen by their destination specialists and are based on firsthand knowledge. The packages include fascinating new properties and tours, as well as hotels and locations that are in high demand based on current trends. A book, microsite, regular features on Gold Medal’s social media channels, email marketing, and offer collateral are all part of the campaign, which will run until October 31. Agents can utilize these tools to promote The Experts’ Edit 2023 and increase sales during this crucial booking time. According to market trends, agents may anticipate a greater emphasis on twin and multi-centre vacations, as well as attractive vacation offerings priced from a variety of UK airports and insider information highlighted throughout the campaign. The various themes mentioned assure agents that there will be something to meet each of their customers’ demands, from all-inclusive vacations and family breaks to road trips and romantic getaways. A sleek 56-page book called The Experts’ Edit 2023 will be distributed starting today to 500 agents in the UK. It offers 51 deals for 2023, 2024, and 2025, including a trip to Siyam World in the Maldives in 2025 after the enormous success of a comparable deal for the A resort on the Indian Ocean that was highlighted throughout August. On the microsite, agents may get downloadable campaign materials, individual landing pages for prominent homes, and motivational advice to help them secure their clients’ fantasy getaways. Gold Medal is offering agents the chance to win weekly prizes of £500 vouchers for Amazon, Marks & Spencer, and John Lewis to commemorate the release of The Experts’ Edit 2023. Agents must reserve any Gold Medal package between September 4 and October 31, 2023, and register their reservations or send their reservation number to win@goldmedal.co.uk by November 1 to be eligible to win. Each week, the winners will be revealed on the Gold Medal Facebook page, @GoldMedalAgents. Additionally, Farebank Rewards can be earned on all package reservations, Gold Medal is reminding agents. The Experts Edit 2023 was created using years of first-hand expertise and a genuine passion for travel, according to Sarah Lancashire, Marketing Director of dnata Travel Group UK B2B. As a brand, we keep an eye out for new trends and pay attention to our agents’ requests to make sure we are consistently exceeding expectations. With the help of our amazing partners, we were able to create this campaign, which is now our second largest of the year. Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/gold-medal-launch-expansive-september-campaign-the-experts-edit-2023/

The major ferry company in Ireland, Irish Ferries, has announced the launch of its ‘Irish Ferries Club’ loyalty program, giving members access to a variety of discounts and incentives for travel on its English Channel (Dover – Calais) and Irish Sea (Holyhead – Dublin) routes.Members can accumulate points through the loyalty program’s three tiers, which are green, silver, and gold, and then redeem them for a financial discount on their subsequent reservation. Upon joining, all members will immediately receive a green tier membership. They will then move through the tiers as they travel more and as soon as their qualified spending criteria is reached. As a way of saying thanks to customers for choosing to book and travel with Irish Ferries, each tier offers a special combination of savings and travel rewards. The Irish Ferries Club offers the following advantages. GreenEarn points with each trip and enjoy savings on upcoming travel reservations.special member discounts and promotionsWith a member profile, expedited checkoutSpending Range: €0 to €1,250 SilverEarn points with each trip and get discounts on upcoming travel reservations:special member discounts and promotionsWith a member profile, expedited checkoutOne complimentary Club Class seat per tripYour complimentary Club Class seat includes priority boarding.No service charge (phone)Budget Range: €1,251–€3,000 Earn points with each trip and enjoy savings on upcoming travel reservations.special member discounts and promotion.With a member profile, expedited checkoutFree Club Class seats for two people on every tripYour complimentary Club Class reservations include priority boarding.No service charge (phone)Spending Limit > €3,000To access their Irish Ferries Club account and see what points are available to use toward their next reservation, members can connect into an online membership portal. An easy approach is provided for joining the loyalty program online right now. Source- Travel daily

What do a number of the major travel firms, including American Airlines, Sabre, Amex GBT, Tripadvisor, Expedia, and others, have in common this year? Apparently, following in the footsteps of significant tech corporations last year, they are all among the big players in the travel industry that have made redundancy rounds of varied amounts this year. However, since the epidemic triggered a significant exodus of workers to other professions, the larger travel technology industry has been struggling with a skills deficit. Could the layoffs at the major travel agencies be good news for the employment market in the travel technology sector? Numerous travel industry professionals were questioned about whether they believed that things might be about to change or if longer-term difficulties still lay ahead. Considering this from the standpoint of the travel insurance sector According to Katie Crowe of the travel insurance provider Battleface, “they are typically not front-line, low-skilled workers, and the experience they can contribute to other businesses is quite valuable. At a time when such individuals are critically missing throughout the majority of the travel arena, talent from the HR, finance, IT departments, sales & marketing, and more is extremely welcome. Meanwhile, much of the talent that is suddenly available on the market is tremendously alluring for travel companies, whose whole offering is tech-based and depends upon ongoing innovation. We’re on the verge of NDC for airlines actually taking off, and more and more airlines are investing in making this a reality, according to Alice Ferrari of aviation technology company Kyte. But almost all of the necessary profiles are currently difficult to locate. Therefore, the aviation tech sector, including Kyte, is attempting to ensure that the best of that recently released talent comes to work for us. Offering them interesting employment options where they believe they can lead actual innovation and create something that will significantly change the way travel is booked, perhaps while experimenting with more recent technologies like blockchain and AI, is the key. Even at the level of the individual hotel properties, Alex Barros from hotel revenue management supplier BEONx is happy to see new talent arrive. Because they are overburdened at the front-office dealing with unprecedented numbers of guests, he says that “recently too many hotels have been delaying investing in and improving back-office and marketing role. The function of revenue management has been impacted by this. Therefore, anything that gives the owners breathing room to invest in technology solutions once more should be appreciated. Longer time, this will yield them huge dividends. The insurance company insuring travel agencies, Trust My Group, says that “sub-industries within travel, like travel fintech providers, stand to benefit from these recent layoffs by shifting talent around the industry to the areas where it is most needed.” We’ve already received some applications from well-known artists who have lately lost talent, and we welcome more, of course.Source- Travel daily

On behalf of Virtuoso Travel Advisors, award-winning expedition travel business AE Expeditions is making a donation to three organizations that focus on conservation after a successful Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas. At the Virtuoso Globetrotting and Cruise Café events, advisors who stopped by Aurora’s sales and marketing teams were given the option to donate USD $5 each to one of three organizations that AE Expeditions supports with through its Women in Conservation program: Dr. Sylvia Earle, Deep Hope, Ocean Generation, Jo Ruxton, Native Movement, and Bernadette Demientieff are all partners in this initiative.Because of the sincere reaction to this initiative, Aurora has chosen to increase its donation to USD $2,500 for the three charity. The CMO of Aurora Expeditions, Hayley Peacock-Gower, said, “Instead of handing out branded gifts and collateral during Virtuoso Travel Week, we wanted to focus on highlighting these organizations, the conservation and social justice work they do, and the inspiring women that lead them.” The Women in Conservation program is just one of many programs Aurora has created as part of its constantly growing Sustainability in Action program. “Aurora is passionate about taking real actions to care for the planet,” says the program’s website. The Australian-owned company’s first thorough examination of its purpose, vision, and values, as well as a summary of its commitment to sustainability and current progress, were all included in Aurora’s most recent release of its debut impact report. Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/aurora-expeditions-donates-on-behalf-of-virtuoso-travel-advisors/

Nobu Hospitality and SODIC have announced plans to create upscale hotels, branded homes, and the renowned Nobu restaurant as part of a full expansion of the Nobu brand in Egypt. Nobu’s entry into Egypt will anchor two SODIC developments, one in Cairo’s New Zayed neighborhood and the other on the North Coast. These developments will include two multi-million dollar five-star hotels, a Nobu restaurant, and Nobu-branded residences with a wide range of amenities for both residents and visitors. The Nobu Hotel and Residences Cairo will be a crucial component of “The Estates Residences,” which is SODIC’s signature project in the emerging neighborhood of New Zayed in West Cairo. The hotel and residences are set within the meticulously planned expanse of single-family homes and upscale apartments. Famous sights like the Great Sphinx, the Pyramids, and the soon-to-be-opened Grand Egyptian Museum are all within easy reach for visitors and locals alike. The Nobu Hotel and Residences Cairo will also offer easy access to the renowned North Coast, giving locals a starting point for weekend getaways and vacation getaways. The Nobu Hotel and Residences in the North Coast development will offer beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and span 440 acres of magnificent coastal land. The project is at the center of one of the fastest-growing luxury destinations in the region and is located in the Ras El Hikma area, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and immaculate sandy beaches. The luxurious North Coast location will be open annually from May through October, emulating the immersive atmosphere of the fashionable Nobu brand’s resort developments. “Our partnership with Nobu is a testament to SODIC’s ability to attract world-class international partners,” says SODIC General Manager Ayman Amer. With “The Estates” and our newest North Coast development developments, Nobu’s famous brand offers a seamless and extraordinary experience of integrated dynamic hospitality and high-end dining at the highest levels of luxury. Nobu Hospitality’s CEO, Trevor Horwell, said: “We are very delighted about our cooperation with SODIC and the debut of these two outstanding projects. Egypt is the perfect place for us to construct extraordinary settings that perfectly capture Nobu’s luxury and innovation because of its rich history and lively culture. These new constructions will not only reinvent what luxury living is, but also provide our visitors and residents with a distinctive fusion of hospitality and lifestyle experiences. The Nobu Hotel and Residences Cairo is located in the precisely designed SODIC complex in the burgeoning neighborhood of New Zayed in West Cairo. Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/sodic-expands-in-egypt-with-the-addition-of-two-luxury-hotels/

Thailand’s Prime Minister and the Travel Industry’s Collaboration Will Transform the Travel and Tourism Sector By strategically working with other key authorities, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin hopes to take advantage of the high season tourism boom. With an emphasis on boosting flight frequency, streamlining visa procedures, and enhancing Thailand’s tourism appeal, new initiatives to increase flight frequency, make visa procedures more effective, and improve Thailand’s tourism appeal were reviewed.In a vital meeting with tourism business owners, Thailand’s newly appointed PM addressed issues while detailing plans for sector expansion. Significant changes are being explored, including the proposal to increase Thailand’s appeal to international visitors and make travel more convenient by extending the validity of tourist visas from 30 to 90 days. To make it easier for incoming tourists, PM Thavisin prioritized streamlining the immigration process.He highlighted the security risks associated with removing entry visa requirements for visitors from China, India, and Russia, emphasizing the necessity of striking a balance between tourism promotion and national security. The summit also emphasized the government’s commitment to boosting local tourism. The potential of reviving a dilapidated airfield in Phang-nga to accommodate small commercial aircraft was discussed. In line with the objectives of inclusive economic growth, PM Thavisin also reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening 3,000 communities with untapped potential. Thavisin coordinated initiatives to boost the economy with airline CEOs, members of AoT, and CAAT representatives in advance of the busiest travel season.Thavisin reaffirmed his commitment to promoting tourism in all provinces, regardless of their political allegiances, and emphasized their commitment to creating a thriving industry. Engagement between Thailand’s Prime Minister Thavisin and industry professionals represents progress in reviving Thailand’s tourism. Extended visas, simplified immigration, and aviation cooperation are just a few of the proposed policies that highlight the government’s dedication to development and adaptability. These programs provide visitors with extraordinary experiences and economic prosperity during the recovery. Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/thailand-tourism-update-september-2023/

Only 147 days after it opened, the Luton DART welcomed its millionth passenger. Wouter Ruffen, a Dutch native who has been traveling on a budget around Europe, was the historic traveler. On Monday, August 21, he was traveling from London Luton to Amsterdam. From London St. Pancras International, he had purchased a contactless ticket to the airport that included the Luton DART connection at Luton Airport Parkway station. Wouter claimed that using the trains and tapping at the gates was simple. He has since won a year of free DART travel on the Luton line. On March 27, the automated Direct Air-Rail Transit system went into operation, swiftly transporting passengers from Luton Airport Parkway Station to the airport terminal. When travelers combine the Luton DART with the rapid rail service from London St. Pancras, their entire travel time from the capital is only 32 minutes. Councillor Javeria Hussain, Chair of Luton Rising, the Luton Council-owned company that owns the airport for the benefit of the community and constructed the Luton DART to significantly improve the passenger experience, stated: “London Luton Airport is now operating at close to the passenger levels seen before the pandemic so it’s no surprise to see the Luton DART performing so well.” Nick Platts, managing director, continued, “We can see the benefits that customers are receiving in terms of convenience, ease of travel, and reduced journey times compared with the previous bus transfer service.” “Our customers have already saved themselves the equivalent of about 20 years’ worth of travel time, and it is quite encouraging that the service is operating at a 99.8% reliability rate. “More than that, each passenger using London Luton Airport and the Luton DART means more support for services in Luton and vulnerable people in particular who most need the help we fund through our unique £7.4 million annual contribution to local voluntary, community, and charitable organizations,” the statement continued.Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/luton-dart-rewards-its-one-millionth-passenger/

The first group of transfer passengers arrived at the new SkyPier Terminal at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) after taking a bonded bus from Macao to the airport’s restricted area and then traveling directly across the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. The seamless transfer service is also available for travelers flying from abroad to the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, who take a bonded bus from the airport to Macao. In any case, passengers do not have to go through customs, immigration, or quarantine procedures or pick up their luggage at HKIA thanks to the intermodal transfer service at the SkyPier Terminal. Similar to the air-to-air transition in Terminal 1 or the air-to-sea/sea-to-air transition at HKIA’s SkyPier, the procedure is flawless. The upcoming phase will see the launch of the new intermodal transfer service between HKIA and Zhuhai. The hub role of HKIA in the area will be further improved with the start of transfer operations at SkyPier Terminal. Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/skypier-terminal-commences-operation-to-strengthen-connectivity-between-hkia-and-greater-bay-area/

World Travel Awards (WTA) and Batumi, Georgia, Europe’s newest tourist destination, have released information on the historic 30th anniversary Europe Gala Ceremony in 2023. The eminent representatives of the travel industry from around the continent will spend three days in the picturesque city, with the red-carpet banquet reception taking place on September 29. Winners of the 2023 World Travel Awards will have the opportunity to see the most fascinating rising city destination in Europe thanks to the complimentary business and social itinerary. A VIP invitation to the Batumi International Travel Forum, a fine welcome supper and music, and a variety of outstanding sightseeing excursions are just a few of the highlights. The capital of the autonomous Ajara region, Batumi, is situated on the Black Sea coast and has an exceptional all-season climate with the spectacular snow-capped Ajara Mountains serving as a backdrop. There are several flights from airports throughout Europe to Batumi and nearby travel hubs. All visitors will receive a unique WTA fast-track gate upon arrival and free round-trip airport transportation from the primary international airports in Georgia. All WTA champions can take advantage of special pricing at five upscale partner hotels. One-third off the going rate for single rooms with breakfast is US$100 per night (US$120 for doubles). For information on travel and lodging, see to the WTA website. The founder of WTA, Graham Cooke, argues that Batumi is one of the industry’s rising stars and that everyone should travel there. Our WTA winners will have a fantastic opportunity to explore this great city and all it has to offer thanks to the three-day schedule. I’m thrilled that Batumi will play a significant role in our unique 30th anniversary Grand Tour. I’m looking forward to attending what promises to be a historic occasion that will live long in everyone’s mind with the most senior figures in the travel business from around Europe. The 30th anniversary of the World Travel Awards Europe Gala Ceremony will be held in Batumi, Georgia, according to Tornike Rijvadze, Chairman of the Government of the Ajara Autonomous Republic. It is an honor to host tourism industry leaders from around the world. We are happy to extend the very best of Georgian hospitality to you and are honored to have you here with us as we work to create a better future for our tourism industry. schedule World Travel Awards and Visit Batumi have planned a fun-filled, complimentary social, professional, and sightseeing schedule just for WTA 2023 winners. Every item on the menu is complimentary and optional. VIP invitation to the Batumi International Tourism Forum with lunchtime networking on September 28 from 10:00 to 15:00.chosen sightseeing tour from 16:00 to 19:00.Option 1: a tour of Batumi.Option 2: Petra Fortress and the Botanical Garden of Batumi.20:00 Fine a musical performance and welcome dinner. November 29th, 11:00–16:00 Both of your preferred sightseeing tours include a free lunch.First choice: Gonio Fortress.Option 2: Petra Fortress and the Botanical Garden of Batumi.WTA Europe Gala 2023 at 19:00! November 30th, 11:00–17:00 preferred sightseeing tour.Option 1: A wine tour that also includes traditional Georgian food.Option 2: A tour of Mtirala National Park while hiking. Tour OptionsVisit the impressive Alphabet Tower, stroll down the verdant Batumi Boulevard, and take in the views of the Black Sea on the Batumi City Tour. Explore this memorable seaside jewel to find the ideal fusion of modernity and Georgian hospitality. Find out more about the lovely Batumi Botanical Garden. It offers a wonderful array of flora from all over the world throughout its 111 hectares. Explore themed areas while taking in the expansive vistas of the Black Sea. Visit the old Petra Fortress in Batumi, which has a view of the Black Sea. This archaeological wonder, which dates to the Roman era, offers panoramic views and a trip through time. Discover ancient mysteries while admiring the beauty of the seaside. Gonio Fortress: Visit the historical Gonio Fortress, which is close to Batumi. This fortification, which has ancient origins, displays Roman and Byzantine influences. Discover its fascinating past, enjoy the views of the ocean, and speculate about the events that took place within its walls. Wine Tour: Visit the Ajarian Wine House in Georgia to start an exciting wine tour. Discover the rich history of Georgian agriculture as you meander through scenic vineyards and learn the craft of Qvevri winemaking. Entertain yourself with an amazing hiking excursion in Georgia’s Mtirala National Park. Trek through luxuriant forests, see a variety of wildlife, and take in the refreshing mountain air. From the trails, uncover secret waterfalls and take in breathtaking panoramic views.Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/batumi-and-world-travel-awards-reveal-itinerary-for-europe-gala-ceremony-2023/

Native American territories in California are as diverse as the state’s more than 100 federally recognized tribes, with traditional homelands ranging from the redwood forests in the state’s far north to the desert along the Mexican border. Travelers may not be aware of the many other opportunities to learn about California’s Indian past and the vibrant, contemporary lives of the state’s Native American peoples, even if they are most familiar with the stunning resorts and casinos run by the tribes. At least 64 different languages were spoken in ancient California, making the state’s population one of the most diverse in the Western Hemisphere. According to the 2020 U.S. Census, around 1.4 million Californians identify as fully or partially American Indian and Alaskan Native, making it the state with the greatest Native American population today. Visit one of the many museums and cultural centers spread all around the Golden State to learn more about these diverse civilizations and tribes. Florida Desert At tribal museums and cultural centers spread around the state, California’s indigenous peoples recognize and celebrate their distinctive heritage. The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians are constructing an ambitious new cultural plaza in the center of Palm Springs with design cues and architecture drawn from basketry, ceramics, and desert vistas. The plaza is home to a 48,000 square foot museum that will eventually become the most significant Native American cultural facility in California. At the location of the therapeutic hot springs the tribe has used for thousands of years, it features an educational walk and a spa. Los Angeles County The Kumeyaay/Diegueo people who inhabit the area are the focus of the award-winning Barona Cultural Center & Museum in San Diego County, which is to the south. The extensive collection of the museum includes artifacts that date back 10,000 years, and the museum store sells genuine shell jewelry and baskets manufactured by native artists in the area. Atl. Empire The Malki Museum, the first Native American-founded museum in California, debuted in 1965 and is located outside the Inland Empire town of Banning. On the Cahuilla Indian Reservation, it is housed in an adobe structure and features a basket and pottery gallery as well as an ethnobotanical garden with 50 local plants the Cahuilla used. In Los Angeles The Haramokngna American Indian Cultural Center in the San Gabriel Mountains, northeast of downtown, tells the tales of five local tribes: the Chumash, Tongva, Kitanemuk, Serrano, and Tataviam. Los Angeles has the largest indigenous population of any US city. The Yarmar Spring Celebration, a two-day workshop with storytelling, musical performances, and craft displays, is one of its activities. The Santa Monica Mountains, which are located close to Los Angeles, are a part of both the Tongva and Chumash peoples’ ancestral homelands. At the Satwiwa Native American Cultural Center in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, you can see a replica of a traditional Chumash home known as a ‘ap and learn about the culture from local guest hosts. The 1.5-mile Satwiwa Loop Trail departs from the center and explores a Chumash sacred site. Source- Travel dailyLink- https://www.traveldailymedia.com/learn-about-native-california-through-the-states-museums-and-cultural-centres/