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China’s red tourism gathers steam in 2021

Red tourism, which refers to visiting historical sites with a modern revolutionary legacy, became an increasingly popular choice for travelers in 2021, data from a recent report showed. The number of searches for "red tourism" on Mafengwo, a Chinese travel service and social-networking platform, increased by 176 percent this year from a year earlier, according to the report jointly published by Mafengwo and China Tourism Academy. According to Xinhua, red tourist destinations in north China's Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region have grown in popularity at the quickest rate nationwide, with the number of searches surging 240 percent year-on-year, the report said. Nearly 42 percent of respondents to a survey in the report said they visited red tourist sites more than three times this year, and over 40 percent of them went to such places "frequently" and "voluntarily" for sightseeing and knowledge. Red-themed homestay and live show are the favorite activities of tourists in 2021, with each of them accounting for nearly 20 percent of all activities in red tourism, according to the report.

Create: Jan 2, 2022 Edit: Jan 2, 2022 International News

Yazd historical properties re-define legal boundaries

New legal boundaries have been defined for five historical properties, which are scattered across Yazd province. The Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts has announced the exact legal boundaries of the properties in separate letters to the governor-general of the central province, IRIB reported on Tuesday. In addition to protecting historical sites, the demarcation projects are aimed to prevent further destruction and damage. Esfahanian Garden House, Eqbal Factory, Vazir Castle, Ezzatabad Castle, and Ezzatabad Kushk (small garden pavilion) are those demarcated recently. In July 2017, the historical structure of the city of Yazd was named a UNESCO World Heritage. Wedged between the northern Dasht-e Kavir and the southern Dasht-e Lut on a flat plain, the oasis city enjoys a very harmonious public-religious architecture that dates from different eras. Yazd is usually referred to as a delightful place to stay, or a “don't miss” destination by almost all of its visitors. The city is full of mudbrick houses that are equipped with innovative badgirs (wind catchers), atmospheric alleyways, and many Islamic and Iranian monuments that shape its eye-catching city landscape. It is a living testimony to the intelligent use of limited available resources in the desert for survival. Water is brought to the city by the qanat system. Each district of the city is built on a qanat and has a communal center. The use of earth in buildings includes walls and roofs by the construction of vaults and domes. Houses are built with courtyards below ground level, serving underground areas. Wind-catchers, courtyards, and thick earthen walls create a pleasant microclimate. Partially covered alleyways together with streets, public squares and courtyards contribute to a pleasant urban quality. The city escaped the modernization trends that destroyed many traditional earthen cities.

Create: Dec 29, 2021 Edit: Dec 29, 2021 Regional News

AC Hotel St. Louis Opens in the Central West End After a $44 Million Ground-Up Build

AC Hotel St. Louis Central West End (215 York Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108), a seven-story 192-room hotel, is now open after a multi-million dollar, ground-up build by St. Louis’ Koplar Properties in partnership with Homebase Partners and Concord Hospitality Enterprises. Located in the Central West End neighborhood of St. Louis, Missouri, the hotel sits in the heart of the city’s upscale retail district and at the eastern edge of Forest Park. The 94,300 square-foot hotel features a state-of-the-art fitness center, small meeting and event space, and curated food and beverage program with inspiration from the hotel’s Spanish and European roots at the AC Kitchen and AC Lounge. The hotel is a new modern and sophisticated destination for culturally-minded travelers and locals alike. This is the first AC Hotel to enter the St. Louis market. Located in the upscale Central West End neighborhood, the hotel is surrounded by sidewalk cafes, smart Italian and Asian fusion restaurants, local coffee shops, chic boutiques and more. Directly across the street sits St. Louis’ award-winning Forest Park with expansive lakes, woods, a golf course and free museums and attractions including the St. Louis Zoo and Saint Louis Art Museum. Steps away are Barnes Jewish Medical Center, Shriners Hospital for Children, Washington University in St. Louis campus and St. Louis Children’s Hospital. AC Hotel St. Louis plans to immerse itself in St. Louis’ local culture, specifically in the arts, attractions and cuisine. HomeBase Partners’ Founder and Owner Andy Holloran said “Together with the Koplar family and Concord Hospitality, HomeBase Partners is excited to bring the AC St. Louis hotel to market in the heart of the vibrant Central West End. Within walking distance to so many restaurants, bars, coffee shops, Forest Park and the incredible medical campus anchored by Barnes Jewish, Children’s and Washington University, the AC Hotel is a much needed and welcome addition!” AC Hotel St. Louis Central West End blends St. Louis’ urban landscape with minimalist, sophisticated design, and features artwork from a local and nationally renowned artist. St. Louis born artist John O’ Hara was commissioned for a signature piece featured in the AC Kitchen and dining area of the hotel. O’Hara is a self-taught artist known for his abstract decorative art. His work is included in public and private collections around the world, including famed designer Michael Kors’ showrooms in Milan, Paris, London and New York. AC Hotel St. Louis Central West End seamlessly fits into the modern and upscale surroundings of the neighborhood, among its world-class art galleries, eye-catching public artwork and stunning turn-of-the-century homes. The sleek design creates a perfectly precise retreat for guests – both inside and out. On the exterior, a natural facade stands out with contemporary wood accents, ivy walls and greenery. Renowned design firm DLR Group worked on the hotel’s interior design, which hosts a blend of European-inspired motif and comfort, with modern decor, touches of natural wood and clean marble throughout the property. Upon entering the lobby, check-in-desks are flanked with a striking leather mosaic in sleek blacks, deep grey and metallic colors. The lobby also includes a welcoming communal space with a massive double-sided fireplace built into a floor-to-ceiling marble wall, which serves as a living room and informal business hub for guests to gather. The space is filled with modern furnishings and artwork, approaching every space with optimal comfort and utility which is intentionally designed to maximize space and minimize clutter. “The hotel design is purposeful, simplistic, and elegant while staying true to our unique aesthetic,” says General Manager Candice Woodring. “We’ve tailored our experiences for business travelers, leisure enthusiasts and locals to all find something at our property. Whether it’s a chic guest room after a long flight or Spanish tapas, signature cocktails and local craft beer with friends, we’ve got something for everyone – business or pleasure.” Furnished with 192 guestrooms, including 114 King sized beds, the design is classic modernism with clean lines, sharp angles, pops of marble and effortless European sophistication. Thoughtful design elements help guests unwind, including plush bedding, a spacious workspace, open closet concepts intuitively designed to create ease of access and visibility, as well as Korres bath amenities made with natural ingredients. Each guest room features precisely placed outlets for ultimate ease of access, a personal in-room coffee maker, temperature-controlled smart refrigerator and a safe. Rooms also feature the latest technologies including 55-inch smart televisions with app streaming and free high speed internet access throughout the property. In addition to in-room amenities, each guest floor features a state-of-the-art sustainability-focused hydration station equipped with glass carafes and purified water. Additional amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness center with Peloton, cardio equipment, free weights, and the AC Store, curated with locally-sourced snacks, sweets, beverages and other local products. Self-parking is available in the Argyle garage located directly across the street from the hotel. From breakfast in the AC Kitchen to cocktails and tapas in the AC Lounge, guests will enjoy flavors that are perfectly curated, poured and plated. The hotel’s European sensibility touches every aspect of the guest experience, including on-site dining. Breakfast at the AC Kitchen features gourmet selections such as fresh baked Delifrance buttered croissants, as well as Berkel sliced La Quercia prosciutto. The AC kitchen will also offer a full menu for guest’s and locals to enjoy with items such as Breakfast Cazuela, and Nutella & Orange Belgium Waffles. The AC Lounge provides guests with a warm and inviting atmosphere to enjoy a drink and a bite to eat with an ambient double-sided fireplace, ample cocktail and lounge seating and modern minimalist design. A harmonious gathering place with a touch of influence from its Spanish roots, the AC Lounge features curated European-inspired small plates after 5 p.m. as well as local libations and signature cocktails like its namesake AC-GT (a custom gin and tonic), served in a scientifically engineered cocktail glass with etchings that discreetly guide the perfect ratio of ingredients. AC Hotel St. Louis Central West End will also serve as an excellent destination for business meetings and social events. The hotel has flexible space to accommodate small business meetings, social functions, rehearsal dinners and celebrations. A dedicated conference room looks out to the bustling neighborhood and is equipped with complimentary high speed internet, 137” drop screen and projector, as well as a separate pre-function space. The hotel can provide a distinct area for private meetings and networking events. The property has also partnered with neighboring restaurant, Edera Italian Eatery, to host larger events with chef-curated menus from Edera’s Executive Chef, Andrew Simon.

Create: Dec 22, 2021 Edit: Dec 22, 2021 International News

Boosting maritime tourism needs careful planning, deputy minister says

A carefully planned strategy is needed to promote maritime tourism on Iran’s northern and southern coasts, the deputy tourism minister has announced. The country should focus on developing its maritime tourism sector while preparing upstream documents, Ali-Asghar Shalbafian said, ILNA reported on Monday. Operational measures should be taken with the aim of increasing the motivation of private investors, the official added. “By partnering with the private sector in the maritime industry, and promoting the implementation of executive measures, even if they are small and infrequent, we will increase motivation to work in the field,” he explained. In order for maritime tourism to flourish, there has to be interaction and coordination at all levels of government and the private sector, he noted. Coastal and maritime tourism Over the past couple of years, the Islamic Republic has made various efforts to exploit maritime tourism potential by developing hospitality infrastructures, diversifying sea routes, and drawing private sector investors along its vast southern coasts. Prosperous maritime tourism could help the county to meet its ambitious target of attracting 20 million annual tourists by 2025. It also keeps an eye on tourism developments in the Caspian Sea in the north. Back in February, the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Transport and Urban Development signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop maritime tourism and make the best use of its potential in the southern and northern coasts of the country. Promoting the culture of using the sea as a tool to increase social vitality, development of coastal activities in the form of environmentally-friendly plans and programs, and creating the necessary grounds for cooperation and exchange of knowledge and information was also among the topics of the agreement.

Create: Nov 30, 2021 Edit: Nov 30, 2021 Regional News

Trumps Selling Prized Washington, D.C., Hotel for $375 Million

Donald J. Trump’s family business has an agreement to sell its marquee Washington hotel, reaching a deal to fetch at least $375 million for a property that prompted ethical scrutiny and struggled to make money even as it drew steady crowds of lobbyists, lawmakers and Trump loyalists. The deal so far is what is known as a purchase and sale agreement, meaning a final sale of the Trump International Hotel has not taken place and may not happen until early next year, according to three people with knowledge of the matter. The sale of the lease of the hotel, which operates out of a landmark federal building on Pennsylvania Avenue, comes after years of financial losses at the property, which opened in 2016, shortly before Mr. Trump was elected president. Still, with the significant price of the planned sale, the Trump family is expected to turn a profit on the overall investment. The buyer of the lease is CGI Merchant Group, a minority-owned real estate investment firm in Miami, according to the people briefed on details of the pending transaction, which was reported earlier by The Wall Street Journal. CGI is exploring a deal to rename the hotel, based in the Old Post Office building, under the Waldorf Astoria luxury brand. The sale must first be approved by the General Services Administration, the federal agency that controls the property. From the time of its opening, the hotel immediately drew crowds of Trump supporters and favor-seekers. For a businessman president, it was the ideal bridge between his two worlds: a Trump hotel five blocks from the Trump White House. This blurring between Mr. Trump’s business and his presidency fueled attacks from congressional Democrats who charged that he used the property as the hub of an influence-peddling operation.

Create: Nov 15, 2021 Edit: Nov 15, 2021 International News

London Town Group Appoints Cycas Hospitality to Manage Its Three Paddington Hotels

Cycas Hospitality, the award-winning pan-European operator, has signed a deal to operate London Town Group’s portfolio of upscale boutique hotels in the UK capital. The London Town Group of Companies, founded by Koolesh Shah, is one of the UK’s leading, privately-held real estate and energy investment companies. The agreement sees Cycas welcome its first two Mercure-branded hotels – part of Accor – to its portfolio. While the 72-room Mercure London Hyde Park – set within a Grade II listed building – recently completed a multi-million-pound refurbishment, the 86-room Mercure London Paddington is scheduled to start a fully renovation programme next year. As part of the extensive works, the hotel will upgrade its ground floor food and beverage facilities and transform its top floor into a rooftop bar.As Cycas’s seventh IHG-branded property, the 64-room Hotel Indigo London Paddington becomes its first Hotel Indigo in London and joins Hotel Indigo Dundee as its second in the UK. All three properties offer a wide range of dining options, meetings facilities and state-of-the-art fitness centres, all just a short walk from Hyde Park and Paddington Station, whose access will be further boosted with next year’s opening of Crossrail and the Elizabeth Line. Cycas has appointed Tanja Furby as Cluster General Manager for the three London hotels. A seasoned operator who has worked across a wide range of leading hospitality brands, Tanja’s commercial skills, leadership and local knowledge will help Cycas maximise each property’s customer offering. Koolesh Shah, Founder of London Town Group, said “As our business diversifies and grows, I felt now was the time to bring on board a recognised industry leader in hotel operations to partner on the transformation journey of our hotels. “We’ve always prided ourselves on our collection of leading branded-boutique hotels, and we’re confident that Cycas’s track-record in delivering the highest hospitality standards will ensure we can continue to give our guests the best possible experience.” Matt Luscombe, Chief Executive Officer at Cycas Hospitality, said: “I’ve known and admired Koolesh and his team for many years, since he opened the first Hotel Indigo outside of North America in 2009. Over the last decade, London Town Group has been synonymous with commercial and operational excellence. “With their central locations and exceptional transport links, these three hotels are ideally positioned to capitalise on the recovery in business and leisure travel. We’re proud and excited to begin this partnership together. The deal follows continued expansion for Cycas Hospitality, which has now opened or taken over 17 hotels in 12 months, despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic,

Create: Oct 31, 2021 Edit: Oct 31, 2021 International News

Maritime excursions main mission of Bushehr tourism, deputy minister says

Bushehr province should invest a great deal of effort to develop its maritime tourism, the deputy tourism minister Ali-Asghar Shalbafian has said. TEHRAN - Busher province should invest a great deal of effort to develop its maritime tourism, the deputy tourism minister Ali-Asghar Shalbafian has said. “If the southwestern Bushehr province wants to develop tourism, it should focus on maritime sector,” the official said on Thursday. “The province needs to inform investors about its capacity in this sector, especially its favorable location on the Persian Gulf coast.” He made the remarks during a meeting with the provincial tourism chief Mohammad Hossein Arastuzadeh. The coastal region, ports, islands and coasts of the Persian Gulf are among Bushehr's greatest natural gifts, therefore, directing the investment capacities and enthusiastic investors to the maritime tourism sector will facilitate the growth of Bushehr as a coastal tourist destination, Shalbafian explained. For his part Arastuzadeh said that by using cruise ships and traditional Lenj boats in the region, maritime tourism has grown. Over the past couple of years, the Islamic Republic has made various efforts to exploit maritime tourism potential by developing hospitality infrastructures, diversifying sea routes, and drawing private sector investors along its vast southern coasts. Prosperous maritime tourism could help the county to meet its ambitious target of attracting 20 million annual tourists by 2025. It also keeps an eye on tourism developments in the Caspian Sea in the north. Back in February, the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Transport and Urban Development signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop maritime tourism and make the best use of its potential in the southern and northern coasts of the country. Promoting the culture of using the sea as a tool to increase social vitality, development of coastal activities in the form of environmentally-friendly plans and programs, and creating the necessary grounds for cooperation and exchange of knowledge and information were also among the topics of the agreement. With over 6,000 years of history and significant monuments from the Elamite, Achaemenid, Parthian, and Sassanid eras, Bushehr is one of Iran’s most important historical centers. Besides its cultural heritage, beautiful beaches and lush palm groves make it an attractive destination for world travelers. The historical and architectural monuments of Bushehr include Islamic buildings like mosques and praying centers, mansions, old towers, castles, as well as gardens. When it comes to cultural attractions, there are many historical mounds in Bushehr including Tall-e Khandaq with Sassanid architectural style, Tall-e Marv located near an Achaemenid Palace, and Qajar era Malek al-Tojar Mansion. Qajar era Kazeruni Mansion, which has been inscribed on the World Heritage List, is another attraction that world travelers love to see among various ancient sites.

Create: Oct 16, 2021 Edit: Oct 16, 2021 Regional News

How Addressing ESG Can Also Save Hotels Money

Recent weather disasters, social unrest and a heightened awareness of racial bias have prompted hoteliers to double down on their commitments to become better corporate citizens and do more to address environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues. These are moves toward a social good, sure, but also have ramifications on hotel company P&Ls. Marriott International, for one. It recently announced a commitment to reach net-zero emissions of greenhouse gases by 2050. The pledge follows the previous setting of goals by the massive global company to reduce single-use plastics, cut down on food waste by 50% and significantly amp up the diversity of suppliers, among other measures. InterContinental Hotels Group is another. Earlier this year it announced plans “to make a positive difference for our people, communities and planet over the next decade.” The company’s new commitments include a 15% “absolute reduction” of energy use and carbon emissions; a reduction of waste that will include the elimination of single-use items and a “prevent, donate, divert” plan for food waste; increased water conservation efforts; new programs to “improve the lives of 30 million people in our communities around the world” and, for employees, to “champion a diverse culture where everyone can thrive.” All of these measures benefit the public good and also have impact on a hotel’s ability to control expenses, particularly in regard to energy management. “Saving energy can—and will—impact profitability,” said Denise Naguib, VP of Sustainability and Supplier Diversity at Marriott. “For many properties, the second largest cost after labor is energy, and in some markets it actually supersedes labor, so this is a real cost that impacts the bottom line.” Energy By The Numbers Energy costs are mainly variable and there are ways to control this expense, which is of the moment now as the expense creeps back up. In U.S. hotels, the cost of electricity jumped to $4.31 in August on a per-available-room basis, compared to $3.35 in July 2020, according to HotStats data. Year-to-date August, hotels were paying $3.32 for energy, compared to $2.94 over the same period a year prior. Europe saw a similar rise, with August electricity at €6.26 compared to €8.26 in the same month last year, and €8.67 in the first eight months of this year compared to €8.26 in the same period a year ago. Small Steps, Big Rewards Operational changes large and small can help drive energy efficiency. “One of our hotels that had a high energy bill brought on an energy manager,” Naguib said. “That person found energy efficiencies and reduced the property’s energy bill by $1 million.” On a broader level, she added, properties need to empower engineers and others to find energy efficiencies, such as shutting a foyer light that’s kept on all day, deploying technology to regulate temperatures and electric usage throughout the space. Smart uses of food, such as saving the ends of vegetables for stews or making more scrambled eggs at the start of breakfast to avoid whipping up too many at the end of service, can have an impact. Energy purchasing decisions and the education of employees also can make a difference. That hands-on approach also can be used when working to make hoteliers’ purchasing choices more inclusive, Naguib said. “If any of our associates are working on RFPs or RFIs, we help them seek out diverse suppliers, such as women or minority-owned businesses. It adds more voices to the table for bidding opportunities.” Such shifts generate customer loyalty, IHG noted when it announced the company’s enhanced ESG policies.

Create: Oct 13, 2021 Edit: Oct 13, 2021 Hotel Management

Zoroastrian Towers of Silence: abandoned, enigmatic but touristic

The enigmatic Zoroastrian Towers of Silence are set on two lonely, barren hilltops on the southern outskirts of Yazd in central Iran. According to a tradition dating back over 3,000 years, dead bodies were left on top of those open towers – which are also called dakhmas -- to be slowly disengaged or picked apart by desert vultures. Under ancient Zoroastrian beliefs about the purity of the Earth, dead bodies were not buried but left in these uncovered stone towers so that vultures could pick the bones clean. Narratives say that men’s corpses were placed in the outer circle, while women’s were left in the middle, and children in the inner-most ring. Bodies were then left until their bones were bleached by the elements and stripped by the vultures. After the process of purification, bones were placed in ossuaries near, or inside the towers. Ossuaries from these rituals have been discovered from the 4th and 5th centuries BC. At the foot of the hills are several other abandoned Zoroastrian buildings, including a defunct well, cistern, kitchen, and a lavatory. As Iran developed and urbanized, dakhmas became increasingly closer to city limits, severely curtailing their use. Since the 1970s, the use of dakhmas has been illegal in Iran, forcing orthodox Zoroastrians to adapt to new burial methods. According to Encyclopedia Britannica, such towers are about 25 feet (8 m) high, built of brick or stone, and contain gratings on which the corpses are exposed. After vultures have picked the bones clean, they fall into a pit below, thereby fulfilling the injunction that a corpse must not suffer contact with either fire or earth. Zoroastrian Towers of Silence are currently one of the famed travel destinations of Yazd, which is a cradle of Zoroastrianism. In July 2017, the historical texture of the city of Yazd was named a UNESCO World Heritage. Wedged between the northern Dasht-e Kavir and the southern Dasht-e Lut on a flat plain, the oasis city enjoys a very harmonious public-religious architecture that dates from different eras. With its winding lanes, a forest of badgirs (wind catchers), mud-brick houses, atmospheric alleyways, and centuries of history, Yazd is a delightful place to stay, referring to as a ‘don't miss’ destination by almost all travel associates in the region. Yazd Jameh Mosque, Dowlatabad Garden, the Yazd Atash Behram, also known as Atashkadeh-e Yazd, Towers of Silence, and adjacent desert landscape are among its tourist sites. Here is a selection of comments that visitors to the Zoroastrian Towers of Silence have posted to TripAdvisor, one of the most popular travel websites in the world: ‘Wonderful’ Should be visited to understand the ancient beliefs of Zoroastrians... This is a place where are the Zoroastrians buried their dead in the sky... (Fatih U from Izmir, Turkey) ‘Eerie’ A must site to visit if you are in Yazd to check out how the Zoroastrians dispose of their dead as they believed that after death the soulless body is impure and by burying the impure corpse in the ground, the soil becomes contaminated with impurity. (shadgerami from Nikolayevsk-on-Amur, Russia) ‘An extraordinary site’ We had planned to visit a dakhma when we toured Uzbekistan but had to give it a miss, so I was eager to visit these in Yazd. I had not realized that buildings are having a ritual function associated with the dakhma. Each family has its own building where a final funerary meal is eaten before the deceased is taken to the dakhma for excarnation. It was fascinating to walk around that part of the site before ascending the dakhma. The ascent is quite steep but aided by proper steps. Once in the main platform, there are excellent information boards in English explaining the processes undertaken. (Rod F from Royal Wootton Bassett, UK) ‘Spookily beautiful’ It is one of the most interesting sites we visited on our trip to Iran and one of the greatest reasons to add Yazd to the tour program. Totally recommended! (Muge S from Istanbul, Turkey) ‘A unique place to visit’ I can imagine how hot it must be here in the summer... we visited Yazd at Christmas time and the weather was perfect, sunny but not too hot. Climbing up to the hill makes you sweat but standing right where the corpses were left is a unique experience that catches one’s imagination. There are helpful postings in English that help you understand the context and the customs. You really can’t miss this if you visit Yazd. (Joscar00 from Stockholm, Sweden) ‘Interesting history!’ Easy walk/hike to the top. One of the towers is on a much higher level than the other. Best time to go early morning or before the sunset. (Aida B from Los Angeles) ‘Very interesting place with strong energy flow’ Don’t miss the whole story of this place as it makes it so unique and special. Going up is essential to see the whole place. Also, it gives good views around. There is very strong energy there. Going up to one of the towers is rather enough but you can choose the less popular one. This place is worth 20 min drive from the city center. (Very-sunny from Lodz, Poland) ‘A very interesting and beautiful place’ For millennia and until recently, in the 1970s, this place was used to dispose of the dead, a high priest would chop the pieces of the bodies to be fed to the birds. It is located outside the city and you can visit it on tour or by taxi. There are some temples or buildings at ground level and then you have the two hills with their sanctuaries on top. A great experience. (Etienne T. form New York) ‘Must do in Yazd’ A unique place to visit. Read a bit about the background before you come as all explanation is only in Farsi. Walk up the tower and try to imagine how the burial ceremony must have been like in those days. A must-do when in Yazd. (Isabella Deruiter form Rotterdam, the Netherlands) ‘Iconic place in Yazd with very interesting history’ This place is an essential part of the Zoroastrian religion, where the followers lay their dead loved ones' bodies at the top of the tower for the scavenging birds and weather to 'disintegrate' the bodies. The ascent to the top requires a basic level of fitness but the view of Yazd city from the top is good. I remember seeing motorbikes that bring you to the top too. (Wei T. from Singapore)

Create: Oct 13, 2021 Edit: Oct 13, 2021 Regional News

UNWTO and Netflix Partner to Rethink Screen Tourism

UNWTO and Netflix have partnered on the publication of a report which looks at the role of film and series as drivers for tourism and cultural affinity. The Global Report on Cultural Affinity and Screen Tourism explores the growing affection one has towards a particular country or culture displayed on the screen. The findings of the research were presented in Madrid against the backdrop of the Iberseries Platino Industria - the largest international event for professionals linked to the audiovisual industry in Spanish and Portuguese. The report’s ultimate goal is to support policymakers and key stakeholders within the tourism sector to implement policies that make their destinations attractive for audio-visual producers. At the same time, it aims to help in the building of focused strategies to promote tourism and consumption of local culture, investing in skills and training to develop the local film and creative sectors to ensure a high level of talent, infrastructure and production capacity and integrating tourism and showcasing culture at film festivals to deepen the global audiences’ knowledge. UNWTO Secretary General Zurab Pololikashvili says: “Both tourism and the audiovisual sectors celebrate and promote culture, support jobs and provide opportunities in diverse locations. The joint work of UNWTO and Netflix will help destinations realize the potential benefits of screen tourism. Dean Garfield, Vice-President, Public Policy, Netflix: “As highlighted in this research, we have been able to demonstrate conclusively what we instinctively already believed, which is that alongside the desire to travel and visit destinations, exposure to screen content also leads to greater interest in heritage, culture, language, and developing interpersonal relationships. This truly demonstrates that the creative industries, cultural exchange, storytelling, and tourism are all interlinked and can transform the way communities perceive and connect with each other.” Following the presentation of the Global Report, experts on tourism and the audio-visual industry shared their knowledge and insights into changing trends in screen tourism, its positive impacts on strengthening cultural affinity and the role of online streaming services in promoting tourism and cultural affinity between people, cultures and countries in line with the 2030 Agenda. The event also served to underline how public-private partnerships can support destinations to promote themselves as attractive locations for audio-visual producers.

Create: Oct 11, 2021 Edit: Oct 11, 2021 International News

Approved Vaccine Inconsistency Could Delay the Restart of International Travel

The restart of international travel could be seriously delayed without worldwide reciprocal recognition of all approved COVID-19 vaccines, says the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).The global tourism body, which represents the global private Travel & Tourism sector, has issued its warning following concerns tourists face being turned away at the borders because countries don’t have a common list internationally recognised and approved COVID-19 vaccines.This comes just days after a number of British holidaymakers, who had been administered the Indian Covishield batch of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, were rejected entry into Malta despite the drug being chemically identical to the UK-made vaccine.Over the past few weeks reports of holidaymakers facing obstacles to entry have been on the rise, with some even being prevented from boarding their flights to destinations.WTTC believes that once again, the lack of international coordination to agree on a list of approved vaccines, is creating yet another major stumbling block for the restart of international travel.This comes despite most vaccines have secured the approval of the World Health Organisation (WHO) or Stringent Regulatory Authorities (SRAs), such as the UK’s the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the Food and Drug Administration in the US, and the European Medicines Agency (EMA).Reports of travellers being turned away because they have the ‘wrong’ vaccine batches or ‘unrecognised’ vaccines have fueled concern from consumers, deterring them from booking and thereby damaging the already struggling Travel & Tourism sector.The plea for reciprocal recognition for all vaccines and vaccine batches forms part of WTTC’s four new guidelines which are aimed at safely resuming international mobility and save the millions of jobs and livelihoods which depend on this sector, while kick-starting the global economic recovery.Virginia Messina, Senior Vice President WTTC, said: “Reciprocal recognition of all vaccine types and batches is essential if we are to avoid any further unnecessary and damaging delay to restarting international travel.“The failure of countries to agree on a common list of all approved and recognised vaccines is of huge concern to WTTC, as we know every day travel is curbed, more cash-strapped Travel & Tourism businesses face even greater strain, pushing ever more to the brink of bankruptcy.“We can avoid this by having a fully recognised list of all the approved vaccines – and vaccine batches – which should be the key to unlocking international travel, not the door to preventing it.“It will also give holidaymakers and travellers the confidence they need to book trips, flights and cruises, confident in the knowledge that their fully-vaccinated status will be internationally recognised.”WTTC says the restoration of safe international travel can be achieved by following its four guidelines.Through a combination of COVID-19 testing, vaccination, digital health travel passes and the use of health and safety protocols, such as wearing face masks, safe international mobility can resume while at the same time saving millions of jobs and livelihoods which depend on the sector and kick-starting the global economic recovery. WTTC’s fundamental guidelines to restore international mobility while safeguarding public health include: Appropriately reduced protocols for vaccinated travellers, including no need for testing or quarantine for those fully vaccinated. Global recognition for international travel of all vaccines authorised for use and deemed safe and effective by the WHO or by the WHO recognised SRAs.A data driven, risk-based and internationally harmonised approach to re-establishing freedom of movement, that is consistent across countries, easy to communicate and clearly understood by travellers.Global adoption of ‘digital health passes’ which enable travellers to easily obtain and verify their vaccination status, negative COVID test result or natural immunity from a previous infection. These must work with existing border control and travel operator systems accepted by all countries. Digital verification of a traveller’s COVID status prior to travel will avoid lengthy and unsafe queues in transport hubs and terminals.Continued implementation of high-quality health and safety standards throughout all areas of the Travel & Tourism sector, including continued adoption of the WTTC’s Safe Travel Protocols and Safe Travel Stamp, with the continued wearing of face masks in crowded and enclosed areas as well as on all forms of public transport. WTTC advocates the full implementation of these proportionate and responsible guidelines for travel during over the next few months, as many travel restrictions begin being eased as major travel markets begin to reopen.This is against the backdrop of a successful vaccination roll out, with a subsequent decrease in deaths, cases, and hospitalisations in many countries. However, variants will continue to be cause of concern as the world struggles to emerge from the effects of the pandemic.

Create: Jul 17, 2021 Edit: Jul 17, 2021 International News

Resorts World Las Vegas Officially Debuts as First Ground-Up Resort Built on Las Vegas Strip in Over a Decade

Resorts World Las Vegas, the first resort built on the Las Vegas Strip in more than a decade, officially swung open its doors to the public at 11 p.m. on Thursday, June 24. The monumental launch of the highly anticipated resort included a star-studded, first-look party for invited guests earlier in the evening that featured a ceremonial ribbon cutting officiated by Genting CEO & Chairman K.T. Lim. And Resorts World Las Vegas’s President Scott Sibella. Lim and Sibella were joined by Hilton President & CEO Chris Nassetta, Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak, Clark County Commission Chair Marilyn Kirkpatrick, Clark County Commissioner Tick Segerblom and Nevada Congresswoman Dina Titus. “This is a very proud moment for Genting and our Resorts World Las Vegas family as we are honored to officially open our doors,” said Scott Sibella, President of Resorts World Las Vegas. “This spectacular resort was designed to usher in a new era of hospitality in Las Vegas with unsurpassed dining and entertainment, an array of luxury hotel accommodations, and new-age technology. We are excited to finally be able to present this resort to the world and officially welcome guests to experience our exceptional amenities firsthand. We are grateful for all of the support we received during our opening and truly hope our community and visitors enjoy all of the hard work that went into creating this incredible property.” “We are thrilled to unveil Resorts World Las Vegas – an incredible property that marks the return of our signature Hilton hospitality on the Strip,” said Chris Nassetta, President and CEO of Hilton. “Together, Hilton, Genting and Resorts World Las Vegas are committed to delivering unforgettable experiences for our guests, and this new resort raises the bar for Las Vegas. As we offer outstanding hotels, dining, entertainment and design, we are thrilled to welcome guests to the entertainment capital of the world for years to come.” The integrated luxury resort redefines the hospitality standard in Las Vegas with the following amenities: Exceptional Accommodations – Through a historic partnership with Hilton, Resorts World Las Vegas offers 3,500 luxury guest rooms and suites from three premium Hilton brands – the largest multi-brand deal in Hilton’s history – including the largest Conrad Hotels & Resorts property in the world, one of the first LXR Hotels & Resorts locations in the U.S., and a marquee Hilton Hotels & Resorts hotel. Each brand features its own entrance, lobby, and distinct selection of guest accommodations. Resorts World Las Vegas is also a part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 18 distinct brands. Las Vegas Hilton at Resorts World features 1,774 full-service guest rooms and suites ranging from 400 to 3,300 square feet with smart, elevated amenities in a comfortable and refined setting. Conrad Las Vegas at Resorts World offers 1,496 contemporary and luxury guest rooms and suites ranging from 550 to 2,800 square feet, boasting luxe amenities and a curated art program. Crockfords Las Vegas, LXR Hotels & Resorts showcases an intimate collection of 236 impeccably designed guest rooms, suites, and villas ranging from 550 to 7,000 square feet that feature lavish accommodations, upscale amenities, and highly personalized service. Technology – Resorts World Las Vegas offers various new-age technology advancements across the property, including mobile check-in and digital key via the Hilton Honors app, allowing for a contactless arrival experience, an AI-powered digital concierge named Red, and more. The resort also boasts over 200,000 square feet of captivating LED displays, including a 100,000 square-foot West Tower LED screen (one of the largest LED building displays in the U.S.). The first resort to partner with Grubhub, Resorts World Las Vegas guests can exclusively enjoy Grubhub’s advanced ordering technology through On The Fly at Resorts World powered by Grubhub. This innovative solution allows guests to conveniently order and charge the cost to their room or credit card via the Grubhub app from the resort’s 40 food and beverage concepts and select retail shops for pickup or delivery. Guests can send orders to their rooms as well to the resort’s 5.5-acre pool complex. Casino – Resorts World Las Vegas features an unrivaled gaming experience with the most innovative casino technology. With 117,000 square feet of gaming space including 1,400 slots, 117 table games, a dedicated Poker room and 30 poker tables, high-limit areas, and a sportsbook, the next-generation casino will redefine the traditional gaming experience by introducing the most technologically advanced casino and gaming operation within one integrated resort with Cashless Wagering, RFID bet tracking, and Ticket-in-Ticket out (TITO) at the table. Through the Resorts World Las Vegas Mobile app, guests can pay for gaming, entertainment, or hotel offerings from the palm of their hand, and check their Genting Rewards account balances, receive offers, and rewards and stay connected to the array of amenities. Resorts World Las Vegas will also be the first Las Vegas casino where consumers can utilize a digital login and cashless wagering experience at both slots and table games. Dining – Guests can choose from over 40 food and beverage options at Resorts World Las Vegas, ranging from fine-dining and quick-service venues to original and exclusive concepts like Kusa Nori, Genting Palace, Sun’s Out Buns Out, Famous Foods Street Eats, Wally’s Wine & Spirits, and Craig’s Vegan. Entertainment – The resort’s 5,000-capacity concert and entertainment venue is outfitted to host a myriad of affairs – from star-studded concerts to convention, corporate and sporting events. Featuring the largest and tallest performance stage with the furthest seat only 150 feet from the stage, the brand-new, multi-level venue will provide an intimate, high-energy experience with unparalleled comfort, unobstructed sightlines, and an unmatched immersive audio experience. The joint development between Resorts World Las Vegas and AEG Presents will be exclusively programmed and operated by Concerts West and is set to introduce the next wave of superstar entertainment partners with exclusive engagements by Celine Dion, Carrie Underwood, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan beginning this November. Retail – With approximately 70,000 square feet of dedicated retail space named The District, Resorts World Las Vegas presents two levels of unique boutique shops and experiential offerings from luxury and lifestyle brands, including Fred Segal, Judith Leiber, Hervé Léger, and Pepper. Nightlife – In partnership with Zouk Group, Singapore’s leading lifestyle and entertainment company, the resort features a multiplicity of experiences in one entertainment complex, including Zouk Nightclub and Ayu Dayclub featuring can’t-miss performances by resident DJs Tiësto and Zedd, in addition to a diverse lineup of talent featuring an unprecedented number of female artists including Becky G, Madison Beer, Charly Jordan, and Madds. Meetings – In addition to 250,000 square feet of flexible meeting and banquet space complete with 50 multi-functional meeting rooms, Resorts World Las Vegas will debut the first connector station to the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) and Vegas Loop via an innovative underground transportation system later this summer, providing convention-goers a rapid transportation solution between the resort and the LVCC via all-electric vehicles in minutes. Pool and Spa – The resort offers additional amenities, including an expansive 5.5-acre pool complex featuring five unique pool experiences, including the only infinity-edge pool on the Strip, Additionally, the resort will debutea spectacular 27,000-square-foot, world-class spa experience, which will open later this summer.

Create: Jul 1, 2021 Edit: Jul 1, 2021 International News