International News

International News

IHG intensifies effort to fight human trafficking

January is recognized as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month in the US and IHG® has intensified its ongoing effort to fight human trafficking. The company has introduced new programs, tools and resources for colleagues to increase awareness and aid prevention of human trafficking, including a free training available to all IHG-branded hotels worldwide, including more than 4,200 properties in the Americas. Human trafficking, a form of modern slavery, is a $150 billion criminal enterprise that brings suffering and injustice to an estimated 40 million men, women and children across the globe, according to the International Labor Organization. It is a domestic and international issue that is present in communities of all sizes with individuals of all ages and backgrounds trafficked and exploited for purposes including sexual abuse and forced labor. Elie Maalouf, Chief Executive Officer, Americas, IHG, said: “At IHG, we condemn human trafficking in all forms, and we are taking a strong stance in partnership with our owners, elected officials and others in the industry. We are committed to protecting our guests, communities and owners from the impact of human trafficking as well as maintaining the integrity of IHG’s brands. We will not tolerate it, or those who would enable it, in the IHG system of hotels, and we are empowering all of our colleagues with the tools, resources and support they need to combat this crime on every level.” Most recently, in December, IHG hosted dozens of colleagues from local Georgia hotels for a group training and discussion at the Crowne Plaza® Atlanta Perimeter at Ravinia, located near the company’s Americas headquarters in Atlanta. During the event, attendees learned about the work to fight human trafficking in Georgia from First Lady Marty Kemp, as well as support and assistance programs available for survivors from Mary Frances Bowley, founder and executive director of non-profit Wellspring Living. “Our partnership with the hotel and lodging industry is forged by a common goal: ending human trafficking in Georgia,” said First Lady Kemp. “I applaud IHG’s efforts to train employees on identifying the warning signs of trafficking and supporting survivors. Education and awareness are key in this critical fight, and this training equips staff with the potential to save lives.” IHG has released a new video featuring a one-on-one conversation with First Lady Kemp and Colleen Keating, Chief Operating Officer, Americas, IHG, where the two leaders discuss the importance of public-private partnership in the fight against human trafficking and progress in the state of Georgia. Since its launch in summer 2019, colleagues in more than 2,300 hotels across the U.S., Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean have completed IHG’s online anti-human trafficking training. The company expects colleagues in all IHG-branded hotels in the region to have completed the training by March 2020. Additionally, IHG continues to work closely with a variety of organizations such as the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) and Georgia Hotel & Lodging Association (GHLA) to share best practices, coordinate efforts and attack the issue on all levels. The company has also engaged in additional collaborative efforts, such as commitments to ECPAT and the criteria of The Code, as well as the AHLA 5-Star Promise. IHG also actively supports non-profit organizations that provide essential goods and services to support the recovery of human trafficking survivors, and coordinates regular volunteer opportunities for colleagues. IHG is a global company with a presence in more than 100 countries. The company considers addressing human trafficking a key component of its larger commitment to responsible business and at the core of how it operates. Read more about the company’s position and its consistent standard across every market in its global Human Rights Policy.

Create: Jan 11, 2020 Edit: Jan 11, 2020

Six Senses plans its first urban hotel in the United States

Extraordinary can’t happen in an ordinary place, and the launch of Six Senses New York at the end of 2020 is an exciting moment as the brand plans to open its first urban hotel in the United States. The XI in New York City is an extraordinary collaboration between visionary minds, and example of what happens when you toss the rulebook on what’s expected. Outside, the iconic twisting towers defy any attempt to keep the buildings in a standard rectangular shape. This is just as architect Bjarke Ingels intended: “In the case of the XI, we have the chance to make the world a little bit more like our dream world.” Inside, Six Senses New York will deliver a transformational experience rooted in immersive well-being. Residential owners, hotel guests and local club members will have access to some of the most pioneering wellness programming in the world, along with large spaces for working and entertaining and innovative culinary options. Look no further than the club roof, which will double as an organic veg patch, or dance floor, depending on how the mood takes you! Situated on a full city-block in vibrant West Chelsea, the XI rises above the Hudson River and the world-famous High Line in Manhattan. The hotel occupies ten floors of No. X and will open with 136 guest rooms and suites, a restaurant just off the High Line and a café with an outdoor terrace. Sustainability plays a central role in each element of the hotel, with the property adhering to the same guiding values that inform all Six Senses properties. Interiors are designed by celebrated Parisian firm Gilles & Boissier. Neutral colors and natural materials combine with light wood floors, charred wood accent walls and stonework to create a sense of tranquility against the dramatic backdrop of the ever-shifting city skyline. Local artisans also bring their take on Manhattan through individual artworks featured throughout the hotel. The large, asymmetrical walnut doors at the entrance serve as a reminder that within nature’s imperfection lies perfect beauty. Luxury resorts and getawaysExtraordinary can’t happen in an ordinary place, and the launch of Six Senses New York at the end of 2020 is an exciting moment as the brand plans to open its first urban hotel in the United States. The XI in New York City is an extraordinary collaboration between visionary minds, and example of what happens when you toss the rulebook on what’s expected. Outside, the iconic twisting towers defy any attempt to keep the buildings in a standard rectangular shape. This is just as architect Bjarke Ingels intended: “In the case of the XI, we have the chance to make the world a little bit more like our dream world.” Inside, Six Senses New York will deliver a transformational experience rooted in immersive well-being. Residential owners, hotel guests and local club members will have access to some of the most pioneering wellness programming in the world, along with large spaces for working and entertaining and innovative culinary options. Look no further than the club roof, which will double as an organic veg patch, or dance floor, depending on how the mood takes you! Situated on a full city-block in vibrant West Chelsea, the XI rises above the Hudson River and the world-famous High Line in Manhattan. The hotel occupies ten floors of No. X and will open with 136 guest rooms and suites, a restaurant just off the High Line and a café with an outdoor terrace. Sustainability plays a central role in each element of the hotel, with the property adhering to the same guiding values that inform all Six Senses properties. Interiors are designed by celebrated Parisian firm Gilles & Boissier. Neutral colors and natural materials combine with light wood floors, charred wood accent walls and stonework to create a sense of tranquility against the dramatic backdrop of the ever-shifting city skyline. Local artisans also bring their take on Manhattan through individual artworks featured throughout the hotel. The large, asymmetrical walnut doors at the entrance serve as a reminder that within nature’s imperfection lies perfect beauty. The remarkable 45,000 square feet of space dedicated to wellness illustrates the emphasis Six Senses places on this core value. The full-service spa will offer a vibroacoustic meditation dome, bathhouse and magnesium pool, Holistic Anti-Aging Center, fitness center, yoga studio, many social spaces with cafés, a restaurant, juice bars, co-working and lounge areas. The integrative wellness clinic will base treatments and activities on the preventative principles of the Eastern medicine approach and results-oriented Western influences. Building a presence in key cities is an exciting new chapter for Six Senses, but one that still stands for finding connection and reconnection in our world today. When the XI opens next year, it will have dedicated children’s and teen’s rooms to ensure Kids go VIP in New York

Create: Jan 11, 2020 Edit: Jan 11, 2020

NH adds eight hotel to European portfolio

NH Hotel Group will operate a unique portfolio of eight high-end hotels with a total of 1,115 rooms in prime locations in Europe – in Italy, France, Czech Republic and Hungary. NHH will lease the hotels from Covivio, a leading European real estate investor. The hotels will be rebranded to Minor International and NHH’s hotel brands, including Anantara and NH Collection, following an extensive repositioning work programme to be pursued by Covivio in all the properties in the coming months. The hotels, formerly the prestigious Boscolo portfolio, consists of six iconic properties, including Palazzo Naiadi in Rome, Italy; The Carlo IV in Prague, Czech Republic; Hotel Plaza in Nice, France; The NY Palace and The NY Residence in Budapest, Hungary; and Grand Hotel Dei Dogi in Venice, Italy; and two premium hotels in Italy, namely Bellini Hotel in Venice and Palazzo Gaddi in Florence. After the acquisition by Covivio of the eight hotels, NHH will operate this high-end hotel portfolio under a long-term sustainable lease contract. The closing of the transaction is expected to be fully complete by the end of the first half of 2020. The handover of the hotels will take place at the same time of the closing, except for the hotels in Florence and Nice, which are currently under a full refurbishment, and expected to be completed by June 2020 and January 2021 respectively. “MINT and NHH have been leveraging on both parties’ strengths for cross-expansion”, said Mr. Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of MINT and CEO of Minor Hotels. “We are very excited about the potential of the Anantara brand in Europe. Anantara’s brand strength, coupled with NHH’s strong relationship with real estate investors has enabled us to expand our luxury hotel portfolio in Europe at a much faster pace. Following the launch of Anantara Villa Padierna Palace in Spain in July and the signing in October of a hotel in Dublin, Ireland, to be rebranded to Anantara in 2020, this strategic transaction will notably strengthen the presence of our luxury Anantara brand in key privileged destinations in Europe.”

Create: Jan 11, 2020 Edit: Jan 11, 2020

Attracting adventure tourists in 2020

Adventure tourism is one of the fastest growing segments of the tourism industry, with a global market valued at $586 billion in 2018, and projected to reach $1,627 billion in 2026. However attractive this sector seems to be, drawing adventure tourists is no easy feat. Adventure travel providers need to understand, first of all, that travel trends and travelers’ preferences keep changing from time to time. What works this year may not work next year. Tourism professionals therefore have to always stay ahead of the curve. Today, there is a real thirst for authenticity of a destination, bound up with sustainability concerns including support for local businesses, reducing plastic consumption, community outreach and cultural sensitivity, especially in the adventure travel sector. Adventurers used to prioritise personal challenges and individual thrills. Now that “authenticity” ascends as the travel buzzword, they prefer to immerse themselves in authentic and local culture, from the history and traditions of the place to gastronomic routes and local products. This change of trend is reflected in the world’s largest tourism source market. Chinese tourists are becoming less satisfied with superficial tourist activities and shopping and increasingly driven by a desire to explore authentic, social and shareable experiences at the destinations they travel to. Accordingly, tourism providers in many countries are now providing different types of tourism products which create an authentic tourism experience. In Australia, tourists can participate in indigenous tourism activities such as traditional festivals, dances and guided tours, together with aboriginal Australians. Another example is the cookery classes offered in South-East Asian countries such as Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia, in which tourists have the opportunity to cook with a local chef using local ingredients, recipes and cooking techniques. Not only do tourists today want to have unique, personalised journeys, they also want to create a positive impact when they travel. According to Booking.com, 72% of travelers makes more sustainable travel choices, and up to 73% of global travelers intends to stay in an eco-friendly or green accommodation.* “Travellers are thinking about who we’re giving our money to, where it’s going and how our actions and that of our accommodation choices could be kinder to people and places,” Juliet Kinsman, founder of bouteco.com, told National Geographic. Despite good intentions, the survey reveals that 37% of global travelers do not know how to make their travel more sustainable. The challenge thus lies not only on travel providers to have a strategy for sustainability but also to effectively communicate it to their clients. Some may struggle with initiating sustainability approaches or creating meaningful authentic products, while others do not know how to send a message to the audience. On February 12-14, 2020, international experts will gather in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia to address these issues as well as discuss opportunities in this dynamic tourism sector at the PATA Adventure Travel Mart and Conference 2020. Under the theme “Ahead of the Curve: Authenticity and Sustainability in Adventure,” the one-day conference includes concurrent sessions that allow participants to delve deep into the top trending themes in travel: sustainability and authenticity. Each session features a 45-minute presentation, followed by a 1.5-hour workshop with working exercises. Led by Eric Ricaurte, Founder & CEO, Greenview (Singapore), the Sustainability Track will look into responsible initiatives used by tour operators, accommodations and destinations – and how to message them to clients, including best practice examples from companies around the world and guidance on how to integrate sustainability ideas into day-to-day business operations. The Authenticity Track will looks at how to integrate adventure elements into tour programmes, including how to identify and use local resources (guides, food, architecture, etc) to create more authentic and meaningful experiences for travellers. This track will be led by Dan Moore, CEO, Consultant, Lead Facilitator, Pandion Consulting & Facilitation (USA). The PATA Adventure Travel Conference and Mart (ATCM) 2020 is Asia Pacific’s leading travel trade event dedicated to the adventure travel industry.

Create: Jan 11, 2020 Edit: Jan 11, 2020

China's airlines and airports take automation to next level

Airlines and airports in China are moving to another level of passenger service: They are embracing artificial intelligence and automation to provide the hyper-personalized self-service experience their passengers are demanding. According to the SITA 2019 China IT Insights, China’s airlines and airports are using these technologies to expand mobile services and automating the journey with self-service every step of the way. A key technology that is attracting investment is artificial intelligence (AI). SITA’s China IT Insights reveals that 88% of both airlines and airports are planning major programs, or R&D, with AI by 2022 and they are focusing on virtual agents and chatbots. This investment matches the demands from passengers; SITA’s research of passengers in China shows that 64% of them want a digital travel concierge. Already nearly half (43%) of airlines in China have AI-driven chatbot customer services and the planned investment should see the availability of them rising quickly over the coming years. May Zhou, Vice President and General Manager of SITA China, speaking at the SITA China Air Transport IT Summit in Nanning, said: “China’s airlines and airports have a strong record in embracing technology and automation to drive efficient operations and high levels of passenger services. Now they are moving to the next level where they will harness artificial intelligence to deliver more services, faster and to more people.” For passengers of China’s airlines and airports, self-service has reached a strong level of maturity, but a step-change is coming as biometrics is being adopted. Today, 27% of airports have self-boarding gates using biometrics with travel documents but in just three years this will jump to 66%. And more than half of the airports have plans for secure single biometric tokens for all touch points by 2022. Airlines too are committing to self-boarding gates using biometrics with ID, 60% are planning to use them driving a secure and seamless passenger experience right through the airport with the next three years. Zhou added: “The adoption of self-service by passengers across China has been very encouraging for airlines and airports. At SITA, we see many in the industry who are now ready and planning to add biometrics to bring self-service to the next level.” Mobile services are vital to meet China passengers’ demands and by 2022, all airlines and 93% of airports are planning investments in them. Services including flight discovery, airline offers, check-in and flight status notifications via mobile are already provided by all airlines. One fifth are also using mobiles to sell newspapers, magazines and movies/TV to passengers. Airports too are investing in mobile services to offer a more personalized experience for passengers. Services including, notifications about flight and airport status, and customer relationship management are well established and are offered by up to 81% of airports. Keeping the passenger informed and connected is not only what China’s airports are providing via mobile, they are also facilitating mobile payments. Close to three quarters enable passengers to buy airport services and allow cashless payments via mobile. This hyper-personalized service via mobile confirms it as a vital tool for China passengers. The report highlights that blockchain technology is another key area of investment for airlines, today only 24% have major programs, or R&D, planned but this is set to jump to 80% by 2022. This is in line with the recent trends and commitments to blockchain technology in the country.

Create: Jan 7, 2020 Edit: Jan 7, 2020

voco opens first property in Montenegro

The eleventh voco™ property and first in South Eastern Europe, is located on the fringe of popular Podgorica and re-branded under IHG’s newest upscale brand, offering a modern, stylish and unstuffy hotel experience for guests. The 81-room hotel embodies the characteristics of voco™ with exclusive features and distinctive hallmarks, setting it apart for a memorable stay. Located just outside of the historic capital city of Montenegro, the hotel is surrounded by rugged mountains and is close to Skadar Lake National Park, an area noted for its diversity of flora and fauna. Every guest will experience the voco™ signature ‘come on in’ warm welcome, promising a swift and simple check in, with dedicated voco™ hosts available throughout the guest’s stay as resident experts, and a locally inspired welcome treat, a traditional nut cake. Inspired by its surroundings, voco® Podgorica takes local influences and blends it with contemporary interiors throughout to hotel to leave guests with a lasting impression. The refurbished guest rooms benefit from the voco™ design concept with thoughtful comforts like cosy bedding made from 100% recycled materials, Korres amenities in larger dispenser bottles, and fast Wi-Fi so guests can relax and indulge in some ‘me time’ when they stay at voco™ hotels. Guests can enjoy a taste of ‘voco™ life’ with delicious, locally inspired dishes at the hotel restaurant or unwind over drinks in the peaceful surroundings of the lobby bar with friends and family. For those looking for pure relaxation, the hotel wellness and spa club featuring an Olympic half size pool, gym, spa and treatment rooms as well as a newly built sports hall offering a wealth of opportunities to unwind. For those looking for an alternative space for meetings, voco® Podgorica is the ideal venue for corporate events. With 3 versatile meeting rooms, the hotel can adapt to suit your needs whether you need to host a conference or simply require a room for a team outing. A designated onsite event planner will support you from booking to event day to ensure an unstuffy and smooth-running event. Milena Brajovic, General Manager, voco® Podgorica said: “We are excited to be the first voco™ property to open in South Eastern Europe. Our hotel offers guests the opportunity to relax in a rural setting whilst only being a short distance from a truly historical and beautiful city. voco™ is all about delivering great guest experience and we look forward to offering a warm welcome to guests, old and new, when they choose to stay with us.” The hotel guest rooms benefit from the voco™ design concept, which includes sustainable initiatives to help guests sleep easier. voco™ bedding is made from 100% recycled materials, with an estimated 150 plastic bottles recycled per guest room through bedding alone. In addition, miniature bottles have been removed from the hotel, and have been replaced with bulk size Korres products in large-format bottles which produce 80% less waste than miniatures. Glass water bottles mean that the hotel remove an average of 300 plastic bottles in every guest room per year and the hotel also provides aerated shower heads in their bathrooms to reduce water usage.

Create: Jan 7, 2020 Edit: Jan 7, 2020

Bedsonline confirms strong Australia sales growth

Bedsonline confirms strong growth in room night sales as a result of new brand identity and proposition launch in January 2019, up by around 40% year-on-year. Following integration of GTA and Tourico Holidays into parent group, sister brand TravelCube’s customers migrated onto Bedsonline’s class-leading booking platform in January – increasing from 55,000 to 180,000 the number of hotel properties available. Australia is the 3rd biggest source market for the combined Hotelbeds and Bedsonline brands’ Asia-Pacific and 7th biggest globally, up from 8th place last year. Bedsonline to organize a ‘famil’ trip for Pacific top travel agents in 2020. Bedsonline, the leading global provider of accommodation and complementary travel products exclusively for travel agents, has today confirmed strong growth in Australia. According to Bedsonline’s booking data, since the launch of the new brand identity and value proposition in January 2019 the number of room nights sold from the Australia source market has grown by approximately 40% year-on-year. As a source market Australia remains the combined Hotelbeds and Bedsonline brands’ 3rd biggest source market in the APAC region and the 7th biggest source market for the company globally, up from 8th place last year. This growth has been driven by the new value proposition of Bedsonline, following the integration of GTA and Tourico Holidays into Bedsonline’s parent group and sister brand TravelCube’s customers migrating earlier this year onto Bedsonline’s class-leading booking platform. The new and enhanced platform now gives travel agents a powerful and user-friendly technology, along with local support, plus a diverse and competitive product portfolio – increasing from 55,000 to 180,000 the number of hotel properties available, whilst also providing 24,000 transfer routes and 18,000 activities, plus 140,000 cars available for hire. To continue this growth Bedsonline plans to host 20 travel agents from the Pacific region for a ‘famil’ trip in 2020, details of which will be published soon. The purpose of this trip is to acquaint travel agents with the services and offerings of Hotelbeds’ partner hotels in the chosen destination. Peter Jones, Regional Sales Manager, Pacific at Bedsonline commented: “I am very proud to see the outstanding sales growth in Australia this year. The result has been driven by our new and enhanced platform but is also a reflection of our hard work and persistence in the Pacific region and I´d like to congratulate every team member – as well as, of course, all our travel agent clients for their loyalty. “In particular we are very glad to hear the positive feedback from our travel retailers on the new enhanced offerings, improved payment options, operational support and loyalty rewards program. We are committed to being the ultimate partner for travel businesses and in 2020 will be working harder than ever.” “To maintain our success and growth we are going to hold, for the first time, a ‘famil’ trip for the top agent from a selection of our different clients. We want to give them a first-hand experience of the portfolio of accommodation, activities, and transfers that we work with in the destination. Such trips are invaluable for travel agents so that they can then give their customers that genuine personal advice.”

Create: Jan 7, 2020 Edit: Jan 7, 2020

Hotel industry and travel news from around the Asia Pacific region

Hotel industry and travel news from around the Asia Pacific region: Adventure travel on the rise in China, Silkari acquires management rights of Oaks Lagoon in Port Douglas and more... Hana Financial Investment and Hotel Lotte to Acquire The Hotel at The Mark for USD175 Million Korean-based brokerage firm, Hana Financial Investment Company Limited (“Hana”), and Korea-based hospitality company, Hotel Lotte Company Limited (“Hotel Lotte”) have acquired the 189-key The Hotel at The Mark from US-based private equity firm, Stockbridge Capital Group, under a 70:30 real estate investment trust, for USD175 million. The luxury hotel is part of a 44-story F5 Tower in downtown Seattle and occupies the lower 16 floors. Subsequent to the acquisition, the hotel is set to open under the brand name of Lotte Hotel Seattle in June 2020. The acquisition is part of Hotel Lotte’s effort to expand abroad to better compete with global hotel chains. Silkari Acquires Management Rights of Oaks Lagoon in Port Douglas Australia-based luxury accommodation brand, Silkari Hotels (“Silkari”), has acquired the management rights of 175-key Oaks Lagoon in Port Douglas for an undisclosed price. Located approximately 50-minutes north of Cairns International Airport, the high-end apartment complex is set in a tropical complex around six lagoon-style pools. Previously managed by Thailand-based Minor Hotel Group, the property also features lap pool, fitness centre, tennis courts, a restaurant and bar, spa and conference facilities. Following the acquisition, Silkari will rename the property as Silkari Lagoons. Oak Lagoon is Silkari’s third accommodation asset, joining the 212-key Silkari Suites at Chatswood and Silkwood by Silkari, a 219-key and 37-townhouse complex in Pagewood, in Sydney's eastern suburbs. Dexus and Queensland Government Agree on AUD2.1 Billion Project in Australia The Queensland government and Australia-based real estate investment trust company, Dexus, has signed a facilitation agreement on a proposed AUD2.1 billion Waterfront Brisbane concept master plan. The Waterfront Brisbane development seeks to transform Brisbane’s Eagle Street Pier into a premier and leisure destination. Some key developments of the proposal plan include two premium office and mixed-use towers on the Eagle Street Pier site, as well as riverfront restaurants, casual dining places and retail units. The development will also feature a revitalised public realm which measures approximately 7,900 square metres of open space. Wharf facilities supporting commercial and river tourism operations will also be upgraded to support the delivery of a new City Reach ferry terminal. Construction on the Eagle Street Pier site is expected to commence in 2022 and the first tower to be delivered in 2026. India-based Park Hotels Files Draft Papers for INR10 billion Initial Public Offering India-based Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels, which operates luxury boutique hotels under ‘The Park’ brand in India, has filed its draft red herring prospectus (“DRHP”) for an INR10 billion initial public offering (“IPO”). The IPO comprises a fresh offer of INR4 billion and an offer-for-sale (“OFS”) of up to INR6 billion by its existing investors and promoters. The net proceeds of the IPO will be utilized to repay debt and for general corporate purposes. The company currently manages 22 hotels with 1,937 rooms across 15 cities in India. As per the DRHP, it has a pipeline of 1,536 rooms expected to begin operations within the next three years. The company also has a retail food and beverage business under the ‘Flurys’ brand, which operates 38 outlets in Kolkata, and one outlet each in Navi Mumbai and New Delhi. Adventure Travel on the Rise in China According to a recent report, adventure travel as a kind of burgeoning outdoor tourism has gained increasing popularity among Chinese people who enjoys unique, fresh and exciting experience. As Chinese tourists become wealthier and more experienced, they show a growing desire to explore the world and try more adventurous activities such as climbing, diving, caving, sailing, paragliding, cycling and hiking. Estimated data from market consulting firm, Allied Market Research, showed that the global adventure tourism market was valued at USD586 billion in 2018 and is projected to reach around USD1.63 trillion in 2026. Chinese travellers are playing an increasingly important role in the global adventure tourism economy. According to China Adventure Association, there are 130 million to 170 million Chinese people participating in outdoor adventures, with annual growth of around 15%.

Create: Jan 7, 2020 Edit: Jan 7, 2020

Saudi Arabia tourism starts taking off, new arrivals recorded

New YouGov data shows one in five tourists are now more interested in visiting Saudi Arabia for a vacation and according to the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage, China, UK, Malaysia, United States and Canada top the list of new arrivals since the launch of its first tourism visa. New YouGov research has identified a rise in tourism interest in Saudi Arabia from around the world, with one in five tourists more likely to visit Saudi Arabia for a vacation now than five years ago. The YouGov research surveyed 9,521 people across the USA, China and five key markets in Europe, revealed a growing interest in visiting Saudi Arabia. The data coincides with the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH) revealing its top inbound source markets since Saudi Arabia's opened its doors to international tourism. Since the launch of the new tourism visa in September, visitors from China, UK, Malaysia, United States and Canada have topped the list of new arrivals welcomed into Saudi Arabia. Saudi's historic sites appear to be an important attraction for tourists to the Kingdom. Amongst those surveyed by YouGov, over one in five (22%) are keen to visit Jeddah's historic old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meanwhile, another UNESCO site, previously only known to a few travellers, is gaining a following amongst Chinese millennials. Al Ula now tops the list of destinations in the Arab world of a third of Chinese tourists under the age of 35. Italians top the list with 35% surveyed saying they would be more likely to visit Saudi Arabia following the new visa launch. British tourists were 15% more likely just ahead of Americans at 14%. The research also points to new opportunities for multi destination tourism growth. Of all respondents 73% reported a preference to visit several destinations rather than stay in one location. Arab League Tourism Ministers Meeting The research is released as Saudi Arabia takes on the presidency of the Arab League Tourism Ministers Meeting at the end of a historic year for the Kingdom. Tourism Ministers from across the Arab world met earlier this month for the 22nd Annual Arab Tourism Ministers Meeting. During the meeting they discussed opportunities for regional-wide tourism offerings and unified strategies for sustainable growth of the sector to benefit local communities and the environment. His Excellency Ahmad bin Aqil Al Khatib Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH) said: "This year marked the historic moment of Saudi Arabia opening its doors to the world. We are welcoming more visitors and investors than ever before. To those thinking of visiting Saudi Arabia in 2020, you won't find a warmer welcome anywhere in the world."

Create: Jan 6, 2020 Edit: Jan 6, 2020

South East Asia Hotels: Sanguine outlook albeit mixed sentiments in 2019

The South East Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam) lodging industry experienced mixed sentiments for 2019. Despite growth in tourism arrivals, the ever-changing political climate, mercurial global economic conditions, and growth in accommodation supply are few of the many reasons that continue to put downward pressure on several markets. Even with the headwinds, the underlying dynamics behind demand growth appear to be resilient and are expected as such going forward. The global economic growth is anticipated to end off at a rate of 3.0% in 2019, before gradually recovering back to the 2018 performance of 3.6% in 2021. Nonetheless, South East Asia remains the fastest-growing region in the world and is projected to grow at a rate of 5% in 2019. While the global Consumer Price Index (CPI) forecast remains relatively stable, South East Asia’s CPI has been projected to abate from 3.4% in 2018 to 2.8% in 2019, mainly held back by slow wage growth and prolonged trade tensions. However, South East Asia’s unemployment rate remains at a low 3.5% and is expected to prevail at the same level through 2021. The region’s inflation is anticipated to rise in 2021 on the back of looser monetary conditions and resilient domestic demand. As of year-to-date (YTD) Q3 2019, South East Asia registered a growth rate of 12.3% in international visitor arrivals, a 2.1% increase from the same time last year. While Malaysia recorded year-over-year (YOY) growth of 3.7% as of YTD September 2019, a five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 0.1% reveals that the country continues to miss tourism goals and struggles to attract more tourists. The South East Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam) lodging industry experienced mixed sentiments for 2019. Despite growth in tourism arrivals, the ever-changing political climate, mercurial global economic conditions, and growth in accommodation supply are few of the many reasons that continue to put downward pressure on several markets. Even with the headwinds, the underlying dynamics behind demand growth appear to be resilient and are expected as such going forward. The global economic growth is anticipated to end off at a rate of 3.0% in 2019, before gradually recovering back to the 2018 performance of 3.6% in 2021. Nonetheless, South East Asia remains the fastest-growing region in the world and is projected to grow at a rate of 5% in 2019. While the global Consumer Price Index (CPI) forecast remains relatively stable, South East Asia’s CPI has been projected to abate from 3.4% in 2018 to 2.8% in 2019, mainly held back by slow wage growth and prolonged trade tensions. However, South East Asia’s unemployment rate remains at a low 3.5% and is expected to prevail at the same level through 2021. The region’s inflation is anticipated to rise in 2021 on the back of looser monetary conditions and resilient domestic demand. As of year-to-date (YTD) Q3 2019, South East Asia registered a growth rate of 12.3% in international visitor arrivals, a 2.1% increase from the same time last year. While Malaysia recorded year-over-year (YOY) growth of 3.7% as of YTD September 2019, a five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 0.1% reveals that the country continues to miss tourism goals and struggles to attract more tourists. Vietnam achieved the highest CAGR of 15.4%, followed by Indonesia (12.4%) and Myanmar (9.2%). The strong tourism demand has been driven by an increase in flight connectivity and concerted tourism efforts by the government, such as easing of visa restrictions, developing infrastructures, supporting tourism enterprises, and the promotion of tourism campaigns. Looking forward, the Indonesian government has actively promoted its "10 New Balis" program, established in 2018, to develop and promote several destinations beyond Bali, including Mandalika in West Nusa Tenggara, Thousand Islands in Jakarta, Tanjung Lesung in Banten, Tanjung Kelayang in Bangka Belitung, Borobudur Temple in Central Java, the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java, Labuan Bajo in East Nusa Tenggara, Wakatobi in Southeast Sulawesi, and Morotai in North Maluku. In conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2020 (VM2020), Tourism Malaysia has recently launched a digital initiative, the VM2020 Website Campaign, which aims to entice and showcase various destinations in the country to more tourists. In early 2019, the Myanmar government launched the Myanma Tourism Bank to spur development in its growing tourism sector by offering low interest loans to tourism enterprises. In the Philippine government’s National Tourism Development Plan, the country seeks to spur growth and development through foreign direct investment by showcasing attractive areas in the Tourism Enterprise Zones. Singapore has also announced mega projects to fuel long-term tourism including the Greater Southern Waterfront development, Mandai eco-tourism hub, Jurong Lake District’s seven-hectare tourism development, and the expansion of the two integrated resorts. Apart from an effort to further develop less well-known tourist sites and diversify tourism products, Vietnam will soon launch a new tourism marketing campaign, #VietnamNOW, to build awareness of the country’s tourism assets andevents. Vietnam achieved the highest CAGR of 15.4%, followed by Indonesia (12.4%) and Myanmar (9.2%). The strong tourism demand has been driven by an increase in flight connectivity and concerted tourism efforts by the government, such as easing of visa restrictions, developing infrastructures, supporting tourism enterprises, and the promotion of tourism campaigns.

Create: Jan 6, 2020 Edit: Jan 6, 2020

New 203-Room Embassy Suites by Hilton Jonesboro Red Wolf Convention Center Opens in Arkansas

Embassy Suites by Hilton, a global brand of upscale, all-suite hotels from Hilton (NYSE: HLT), announced today the opening of a new hotel located in the Jonesboro area. Owned by Jonesboro Hotel Partners LLC and professionally managed by O’Reilly Hospitality Management LLC, the hotel is perfectly situated to allow guests easy access to businesses, shopping and entertainment. Embassy Suites by Hilton prides itself on offering guests an approachable and stress-free experience at each of its spacious, all-suites hotel properties. The stunning Embassy Suites by Hilton Jonesboro Red Wolf Convention Center is conveniently located on the Arkansas State University campus next to First National Bank Arena and Centennial Bank Stadium. The hotel is less than 10 minutes away from the Mall at Turtle Creek, Sage Meadows Country Club and Golf Course and attractions of downtown Jonesboro. Offering 203 of Embassy Suites by Hilton’s traditional upscale two-room suites, the hotel features a luxurious, warm lobby and bar area with unique water features, as well as Houlihan’s Restaurant, which serves delicious American cuisine on property. “Embassy Suites by Hilton is committed to exceeding guests’ expectations through value-added amenities and spacious suites,” said Alan Roberts, global head, Embassy Suites by Hilton. “Whether travelers are visiting a student, taking a tour, catching a football game at Arkansas State University or simply taking in the natural beauty of Jonesboro, they will be thrilled with our latest hotel that delivers all they love about the brand at an unbeatable location.” Embassy Suites by Hilton Jonesboro Red Wolf Convention Center welcomes guests to spread out in its spacious suites and enjoy a free, cooked-to-order breakfast each morning, complimentary Wi-Fi for Hilton Honors members and free drinks and snacks each night at the manager’s Evening Reception. Embassy Suites by Hilton provides customer service that always anticipates travelers’ needs and delivers what matters most. “We are very excited for Embassy Suites, Red Wolf Convention Center and Houlihan’s Restaurant to serve as a ‘living laboratory’ for Arkansas State University (ASU) that will be the hub for internships and hands-on learning opportunities for multiple aspects of the business and marketing schools, as well as the centerpiece in the development of ASU’s hospitality program,” said Tim O’Reilly, CEO of O’Reilly Hospitality and an owner of the hotel. “Our partnership with Arkansas State University and the City of Jonesboro is a very positive relationship for our company and all parties involved.” Additional hotel amenities include 40,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, including the 15,000-sq.-ft. Arvest Ballroom (the largest ballroom in Northeast Arkansas), a 24-hour convenience store, business center, fitness center and an indoor pool. Each suite is equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, a living area, coffeemaker, microwave, mini refrigerator and two HDTVs with movies for guests to stay entertained. Embassy Suites by Hilton Jonesboro Red Wolf Convention Center is part of Hilton Honors®, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 17 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount that can’t be found anywhere else and free standard Wi-Fi. Members also enjoy popular digital tools available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app, where Hilton Honors members can check-in, choose their room and access their room using a Digital Key.

Create: Jan 4, 2020 Edit: Jan 4, 2020

JW Marriott Strengthens Presence on China’s Holiday Island With Opening of JW Marriott Sanya Haitang Bay

JW Marriott, part of Marriott International, Inc., today announced the opening of JW Marriott Sanya Haitang Bay, located on the Haitang Bay, the National Coast of China. The property marks JW Marriott’s second resort on Hainan and eighteenth hotel in Greater China, seamlessly blending in with the lush landscape of Haitang Bay and illustrating the beguiling charm of the entire coast. Adjacent to Yalong Bay National Tourism Resort, Haitang Bay boasts stunning scenery including tropical forests, white sandy beaches and shimmering waters. A 40-minute drive from Sanya Phoenix International Airport, the area is home to numerous tourist attractions including Wuzhizhou Island, Sanya Haichang Fantasy Town, Nanshan Temple and the Wanda International Cinema, among others. The new JW Marriott Sanya Haitang Bay is located on a 21.8-kilometer-long shoreline, providing a luxury escape for travelers who come to feel present in mind, nourished in body and revitalized through the brand’s curated programming. “We are truly delighted to continue to expand our brand portfolio in Sanya, China.” said Mitzi Gaskins, Vice President & Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “JW Marriott Sanya Haitang Bay is bringing a modern, luxurious setting to our guests in Sanya, as well as encouraging them to embrace the present and savor life to the fullest in a mindful and nourishing environment.” Inspired by the theme of ‘stone’, the subtle design by Smallwood, Reynolds, Stewart, Stewart (SRSS) connects guests at JW Marriott Sanya Haitang Bay with nature through endless arcades, ceramic accents, an octagonal fountain and peacock pavilion that reflect the hotel’s luscious backdrop. The property’s 142 guestrooms and 18 villas, ranging from 735 sq. ft. to 7,180 sq. ft., feature private balconies and combine modern designs with genuine aesthetics to create the optimum sense of relaxation. Two exquisite dining facilities ensure the ultimate epicurean experience for travelers. Guests can enjoy live cooking presentations in JW Kitchen’s all-day open-kitchen restaurant or relax in the tropical ambiance of the JW Lounge, featuring signature cocktails and wines from around the world. Additionally, JW Marriott Sanya Haitang Bay highlights its commitment to naturally-inspired dining through its JW Garden to offer fresh, local ingredients for authentic farm-to-table dining experiences, hands on cooking classes and specialty drinks. JW Marriott Sanya Haitang Bay is the perfect venue for hosting romantic weddings, corporate meetings and special events with over 37,600 sq. ft. of meeting space, 86,000 sq. ft. of outdoor lawn, flexible seating solutions and comprehensive business facilities. Guests can rejuvenate at the fully-equipped Health Club featuring over nine different-sized pools, or enjoy pampering at the luxurious Spa by JW. “The increase and transformation of the tourism market within China and specifically Hainan is significant, with the island now housing 23 hotels, covering different lifestyle needs,” said Henry Lee, President, Greater China, Marriott International. “The expansion of the JW Marriott brand in Sanya allows us to add unique offerings and enriching, thoughtfully-curated experiences for guests, leaving them with unforgettable memories.”

Create: Jan 4, 2020 Edit: Jan 4, 2020