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The Hyatt Centric Brand Debuts in the Middle East With Hyatt Centric Jumeirah Dubai

The Hyatt Centric Brand Debuts in the Middle East With Hyatt Centric Jumeirah Dubai

 Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today the opening of Hyatt Centric Jumeirah Dubai, marking the lifestyle brand’s debut in the Middle East. The seven-story property is set to become a social hub in the La Mer district, featuring 173 sophisticated guestrooms, including 27 spacious deluxe rooms and suites, designed to reflect the city through the playful juxtaposition of colours, textures and curated curiosities. Nestled in the heart of Dubai and bringing in a fresh take on the modern hospitality sector, Hyatt Centric Jumeirah Dubai serves as an ideal launchpad for exploration for those looking to discover the city’s local hot spots and hidden gems. Conveniently located between old and new Dubai, guests have the opportunity to experience nearby attractions including Laguna Waterpark, the La Mer beachfront shopping and dining district, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Mall. For those seeking authentic, historical experiences, the nearby neighbourhoods of Satwa, Bur Dubai and Al Fahidi are home to traditional Arab marketplaces, known as souks, and the Etihad Museum. The hotel’s enticing dining outlets include thoughtfully designed and casual, relaxing spaces that boast an abundance of food and beverage experiences celebrating the region’s dynamic flavors. Hyatt Centric Jumeirah Dubai’s all-day restaurant is certain to become a hot spot for locals and visitors alike, serving continental favourites for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Shisha Lounge is a contemporary space for guests to unwind and savor a selection of hookah, while The Lobby Lounge is an open yet warm space that welcomes guests all day for bites and afternoon tea. Visitors can also lounge by the pool and enjoy refreshing drinks and light snacks from The Pool Bar. Hyatt Centric Jumeirah Dubai features multiple spaces for meetings, events and social gatherings with a boardroom that fits up to eight guests, large terraces ideal for social gatherings for up to 85 guests, and the exclusive rooftop bar that can be used for small group celebrations. The terrace suite is also the perfect venue for a New Year’s party, where guests can take in the spectacular views of the Burj Khalifa’s firework show. Additional amenities and services include a temperature-controlled outdoor pool along with a spa and 24-hour gym fitted with the latest equipment. Guests can also expect, laundry and dry-cleaning services, valet parking, multilingual staff, and a full-service concierge to ensure every need is met. The hotel also offers its guests a dedicated private beach area at La Mer North beach to relax and unwind.

Create: Dec 29, 2021     Edit: Dec 29, 2021     International News
Hyatt Place Zurich Airport The Circle Hotel Celebrates Opening

Hyatt Place Zurich Airport The Circle Hotel Celebrates Opening

 Hyatt Place Zurich Airport The Circle, the third Hyatt-branded hotel and the first Hyatt Place branded hotel in Switzerland, is officially open, expanding the Hyatt Place brand’s footprint globally in markets that matter most to guests and World of Hyatt members. The new hotel features the Hyatt Place brand’s intuitive design, casual atmosphere and practical amenities, such as free Wi-Fi everywhere and 24-hour food offerings. Because Hyatt’s efforts are grounded in listening and fueled by care, Hyatt Place hotels combine style, innovation and 24/7 conveniences to create an easy-to-navigate experience for today’s multi-tasking traveler. Hyatt Place Zurich Airport The Circle is situated in the Circle destination and directly linked to Zurich Airport, representing one of the most central locations in Switzerland. Guests can conveniently enjoy the business and lifestyle offerings of the Circle, which includes shops, restaurants, a park, airport facilities and The Circle Convention Center. After a productive day, guests can unwind in the park or take advantage of the great outdoors, as the Swiss Alps and Lake Zurich are nearby. Hyatt Place Zurich Airport The Circle offers: - 300 spacious guestrooms with separate spaces to sleep, work and play, as well as a Cozy Corner sofa-sleeper - The Market serving a selection of perfectly packaged grab-and-go items from snacks to salads as well as beverages available 24/7 - ZOOM Restaurant with all-day dining and take-out options, delivering responsibly sourced, regionally inspired fare as well as international classics, including small bites such as wraps and waffles and heartier options including salads, burgers, fries and Zurich specialties - Necessities program for forgotten items that guests can buy, borrow or enjoy for free - Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and guestrooms - Convenient Workspaces and Event Spaces including a communal table in the lobby and over 30,000 square feet (2,800 square meters) of function space at The Circle Convention Center - Fitness Center open 24/7, featuring cardio equipment with LCD touchscreens, along with the nearby park offering outdoor jogging and walking

Create: Dec 29, 2021     Edit: Dec 29, 2021     International News
IHG Hotels & Resorts Signs InterContinental Grenada Resort

IHG Hotels & Resorts Signs InterContinental Grenada Resort

 IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, is proud to announce the signing of the InterContinental Grenada Resort. The 150-room Caribbean hotel will be built on La Sagesse Beach, approximately 30 minutes from the Maurice Bishop International Airport and the town of St. George’s. The InterContinental Grenada Resort will feature more than 30 private suites, an array of restaurants and bars, a luxurious spa and pool with bar and grill, fitness center, approximately 6,000 square feet of meeting space and a business center. The property is expected to open in 2025. Known as a top-rated tropical destination, La Sagesse Beach is a prime location for guests seeking a relaxing and secluded stay along Grenada’s spectacular southeastern shoreline. Julienne Smith, Senior Vice President, Development IHG, Americas, said: “Guests looking for the best in iconic luxury brands will be treated in style with a stay at InterContinental Grenada Resort. We’re excited to work with Range Developments to bring InterContinental’s elevated experience and world-class service to this Caribbean destination.” Mohammed Asaria, Managing Partner, Range Developments, said: “Whether guests come to experience luxurious spa treatments, relax in our stunning pools, dine at one of the specialty on-site restaurants or visit for a grand celebration, InterContinental Grenada Resort will deliver alluring and memorable guest experiences. We are excited to bring the strength of the InterContinental brand to beautiful Grenada. Range Developments has become the clear market leading Citizenship by Investment developer in the Caribbean with an unparalleled reputation for timely delivery and quality.” InterContinental Grenada Resort will be adjacent to Six Senses La Sagesse, Grenada, another Range Developments property and brand in IHG’s luxury portfolio, which is expected to open in 2023. InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has become synonymous with bold exploration, travel and cultural discovery, having pioneered luxury travel in emerging and well-loved destinations for the past 75 years. There are currently 13 InterContinental Hotels & Resorts in Latin America and 205 open globally, including 73 hotels in the pipeline.*

Create: Dec 22, 2021     Edit: Dec 22, 2021     International News
IHG Signs With Dallah Real Estate Company for Hotel Indigo Resort in Durrat Al Arus

IHG Signs With Dallah Real Estate Company for Hotel Indigo Resort in Durrat Al Arus

IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced the signing of a Management Agreement with Dallah Real Estate Company for a Hotel Indigo Resort in Durrat Al Arus, Jeddah. With this signing, IHG continues to expand its lifestyle portfolio in the country to cater to the future demand from new guest segments, seeking authentic Arabian experiences through Hotel Indigo’s neighbourhood story. No two hotel Indigo can be the same, as each has its own specific neighbourhood story embedded in the design, food and service. Due to open in early 2026, the Hotel Indigo Resort will be located in Durrat Al Arus, a recreational neighborhood north of Jeddah, and will be a leisurely drive away from the main city. The resort will be a part of a mixed-use development project consisting of a budding residential community, vast water frontage and man-made lagoons. Located along the Red Sea Coast, Hotel Indigo Resort in Durrat Al Arus will also be a perfect destination for guests to enjoy an active waterfront. IHG and Dallah Real Estate Company, will work in collaboration with renowned design studios and research agencies to weave the ‘Neighbourhood Story’ into the DNA of the hotel. The unique aesthetics of the resort and its service styles will immerse guests into the authenticity of the destination, its local culture, character and history. Along with boldly-designed 271 rooms, the resort will also feature 50 private pool villas, an expansive wellness facility, and home-grown food and beverage concepts that will not only offer a unique perspective to dining in Saudi Arabia – but also catch the interests of foodies and critics alike. Staying true to engaging with the neighbourhood, Dallah Real Estate Company has also partnered with 17Sixty – a marine adventure company that will enable the guests of Hotel Indigo, and residents of Jeddah, to experience marine flora and fauna like never before, keeping sustainability at its core. The company will also provide thrilling water sports activities to the guests. Speaking on the announcement, Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG said: “After debuting the brand in Riyadh, we are delighted to sign our second Hotel Indigo property in the country this year – Hotel Indigo Durrat Al Arus in Jeddah. In line with the Saudi Vision 2030 and the country’s Tourism Strategy, our luxury and lifestyle brands are gaining a lot of interest from our partners and investors. We are confident that upon opening, these properties will be equally popular with domestic and international travelers and will add to the authentic experiences guests will be looking for while visiting Saudi Arabia. We are also honored to once again partner with Dallah Real Estate Company, who boast a great deal of expertise in this sector. Together, we look forward to welcoming our guests to this exquisite property when it opens doors in 2026. ” Abdulaziz M.A Yamani, Managing Director, Dallah Real Estate Company said: “Given IHG’s history and strong legacy in the Kingdom, we are pleased to partner with them to offer our Saudi travellers and international guests a premium and authentic stay experience at Hotel Indigo Durrat Al Arus. The hotel will be positioned as a holistic destination for guests looking for adventure and an experiential stay. We are confident that this partnership will not only offer the best-in-class service to guests but also bring value to the business from IHG’s global systems and loyalty programme.” IHG currently operates 37 hotels in Saudi Arabia across five brands including InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Staybridge Suites and voco. A further 23 hotels are in the development pipeline, due to open within the next three to five years.

Create: Dec 22, 2021     Edit: Dec 22, 2021     International News
AC Hotel St. Louis Opens in the Central West End After a $44 Million Ground-Up Build

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
TOP 10 OLDEST HOTELS IN EUROPE

TOP 10 OLDEST HOTELS IN EUROPE

Hotels have been around for as long as we can remember, but where in history is the origin of this core sector of the tourism industry? While it might come as a surprise for many, the three oldest hotels in the world are all located in Japan and have been operating for hundreds of years. While Japan can boast this very interesting fact, the real champion of historic accommodation facilities is Europe with a large variety of old hotels. In this context, Tourism Review presents the top 10 oldest hotels on the Old Continent – each country represented by only one hotel. Hôtel Cour du Corbeau (France), est. 1528 Located in the heart of Strasbourg and a stone's throw from the cathedral, the Cour du Corbeau is one of the oldest hotels in Europe, being in operation since the beginning of the 16th century. At the same time, it is also one of the most beautiful architectural ensembles of the Renaissance period. The city-owned hotel offers 63 luxurious rooms to its guest, guaranteeing top-notch comfort and an experience to remember. Hostal dos Reis Católicos (Spain), est. 1499 Owned by the Paradores chain (in the ownership of the Spanish government), the Hostal dos Reis Católicos was built as a royal hospital to accommodate pilgrims traveling to Santiago de Compostela. Today, it continues to welcome visitors from all parts of the world in more than 100 rooms and boasts incredible luxury in the heart of one of Spain’s most important cities. Hotel Damier (Belgium), est. 1398 Located on the Grote Markt square in Kortrijk, Damier boasts an impressive history. The first mention of the hotel dates back to the 14th century, with the building boasting an astonishing Rococo façade from 1769. Today, the hotel offers 65 luxurious rooms that will certainly impress even the more demanding individuals. Hotel De Draak (Netherlands), est. 1397 Founded in 1397 and located in the historic center of Bergen op Zoom, Hotel de Draak is the oldest hotel in the Netherlands. It is possible that the hotel is even older, but a huge fire destroyed the city archives in the same year. It is currently owned by the Hazen family and boasts an impressive 62 rooms which provide the guests with fine comfort and luxury. Zum Roten Baeren (Germany), est. 1387 Labelled as the oldest hotel in Germany, the first mention of the Zum Roten Baeren hotel in Freiburg dates to 1387, with the building itself being one of the oldest ones in the city. The guesthouse has been a social center of the city for years and today it has 25 rooms, 20 employees and the ambition to appeal more to the public with its historic charm. Hotel-Gasthof Löwen (Lichtenstein), est. 1380 The Löwen has been offering its services in the hospitality industry since 1380, thus being the oldest hotel in the country. Today the hotel offers elegantly furnished rooms, organization of events and conferences and provides its guests with a gastronomic experience in the form of a restaurant to top it all off. Gastagwirt (Austria), est. 1380 The family led Gastagwirt hotel has been firmly rooted in Eugendorf, in the Salzburg region, for over 700 years. As early as 1380, the "irrevocable, indispensable and forever hereditary liquor license" was awarded to the guesthouse with a letter and a seal. In the present day, the hotel provides fine accommodation services, but especially some of the best seminar and meeting services and facilities in the country. Hotel Interlaken (Switzerland), est. 1323 Hotel Interlaken in Switzerland is also among the oldest hotels in Europe. It was opened in 1323 and was initially meant to be a guesthouse for visitors of the local monastery, while later it was a part of the administration of the region. Today, the family led hotel offers 55 rooms, event organization and much more in the heart of Switzerland. Hotel Alte Goste (Italy), est. 1142 The Alte Goste hotel has been in operation since the 13th century, although the first innkeeper known by name was Gild Stainer in 1557. The region itself served as one of the most important connections between the Holy Roman Empire and Italy. Today the hotel offers a large variety of rooms and apartments for a carefree stay in the Puster Valley. The Olde Bell Hotel (UK), est. 1135 The Olde Bell, located in the small town of Hurley in England first opened almost 900 years ago in 1135. Initially, it operated as a guesthouse for visitors to the nearby Benedictine Priory, but throughout the time it gained even more importance up to the point when Winston Churchill and Dwight D. Eisenhower met there during World War II. Today the hotel offers 48 rooms that guarantee the guests a historic experience not to be forgotten.

Create: Dec 16, 2021     Edit: Dec 16, 2021     International News
UNWTO Announces List of ‘Best Tourism Villages’ 2021

UNWTO Announces List of ‘Best Tourism Villages’ 2021

The best examples of villages embracing tourism to provide opportunity and drive sustainable development have been celebrated at the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) General Assembly in Madrid. The Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO initiative was launched to advance the role of tourism in safeguarding rural villages, along with their landscapes, natural and cultural diversity, and their local values and activities, including local gastronomy. A total of 44 villages from 32 countries across the five world regions were granted the recognition in 2021. All of them stand out for their natural and cultural resources as well as for their innovative and transformative actions and commitment to the development of tourism in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The villages were evaluated by an independent Advisory Board based on a set of criteria covering nine areas: - Cultural and Natural Resources - Promotion and Conservation of Cultural Resources - Economic Sustainability - Social Sustainability - Environmental Sustainability - Tourism Potential and Development and Value Chain Integration - Governance and Prioritization of Tourism - Infrastructure and Connectivity - Health, Safety and Security All of the 44 chosen villages scored a total of 80 or more points or more out of a possible 100. Tourism as a driver of rural development and inclusion “Tourism can be a driver of social cohesion and inclusion by promoting a fairer distribution of benefits throughout the territory and empowering local communities,” says UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili. “This initiative recognizes those villages committed to making tourism a strong driver of their development and wellbeing”. The Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO initiative includes three pillars:   The ‘Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO’: Recognizes villages which are an outstanding example of a rural tourism destination with recognized cultural and natural assets, that preserve and promote rural and community-based values, products and lifestyle and have a clear commitment to innovation and sustainability in all its aspects – economic, social and environmental. The ‘Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO’ Upgrade Programme: The Upgrade programme will benefit a number of villages that do not fully meet the criteria to receive the recognition. These villages will receive support from UNWTO and its Partners in improving elements of the areas identified as gaps in the evaluation process. The ‘Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO’ Network: The Network will provide a space for exchanging experiences and good practices, learnings, and opportunities. It will include representatives of the villages recognized as the ‘Best Tourism Village by UNWTO’ , the villages participating in the Upgrade Programme, as well as experts, public and private sector partners engaged in the promotion of tourism for rural development. A total 174 villages were proposed by 75 UNWTO Member States (each Member State could present a maximum of three villages) for the 2021 pilot initiative. Among which 44 were recognized as Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO. Another 20 villages will enter the Upgrade Programme of the Initiative. All 64 villages enter to make part of the UNWTO Best Tourism Villages Network. The next edition will open in February 2022. List of Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO 2021: Bekhovo, Russian Federation Bkassine, Lebanon Bojo, Philippineshe Caspalá, Argentina Castelo Rodrigo, Portugal Cuetzalan del Progreso, Mexico Cumeada, Portugal Gruyères, Switzerland Batu Puteh , Malaysia Kaunertal, Austria Le Morne, Mauritius Lekunberri, Spain Maní, Mexico Misfat Al Abriyeen, Oman Miyama, Japan Mokra Gora, Serbia Morella, Spain Mustafapaşa, Turkey Nglanggeran, Indonesia Niseko, Japan Nkotsi Village, Rwanda Old Grand Port, Mauritius Olergesailie, Kenya Ollantaytambo, Peru Pano Lefkara, Cyprus Pica, Chile Pochampally, India Puerto Williams, Chile Radovljica, Slovenia Rijal Alma'a, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Testo Alto, Brazil Saas Fee, Switzerland San Cosme y Damián, Paraguay San Ginesio, Italy Sidi Kaouki, Morocco Solčava, Slovenia Soufli, Greece Taraklı, Turkey The Purple Island, Republic of Korea Ungok Village, Republic of Korea Valposchiavo, Switzerland Wonchi, Ethiopia Xidi, China Yucun, China Additionally, UNWTO will work with the following villages participating in the Upgrade Programme: Ordino, Andorra Khinalig, Azerbaijan Koprivshtitsa, Bulgaria Kaštelir Labinci, Croatia Agros, Cyprus Fuwah, Egypt Western Samos, Greece Hollókő, Hungary Biei, Japan Capulálpam de Méndez, Mexico Godinje, Montenegro Gornja Lastva, Montenegro Oukaimeden, Morocco Barangay Tenani, Philippines Gasura, Rwanda Gostilje, Serbia Gorenja Vas, Slovenia Cantavieja, Spain Bo Suak, Thailand Ruboni, Uganda

Create: Dec 5, 2021     Edit: Dec 5, 2021     International News
UNWTO conference examines ways to develop sports tourism

UNWTO conference examines ways to develop sports tourism

 A host of international travel experts have discussed ways to expand sports tourism as one of the emerging propellers of the COVID-battered industry. Celebrated experts and academics in sports tourism debated on current and future trends in the sector and underlined the key role of sport for the development of more sustainable and inclusive tourism during the two-day World Sports Tourism Congress, which came to an end on November 26 November in Spain. At the opening ceremony, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili declared that the holding of this Congress, with strong in-person participation, is a clear message that the tourism sector is ready to welcome tourists again, and the recovery of sports tourism plays an important role, the UN body reported. Pololikashvili added: "An encouraging example is the gradual return of major sporting events, which is a major driver of the restart of tourism." Sport events of various kinds and sizes attract tourists as participants or spectators and destinations try to add local flavors to them to distinguish themselves and provide authentic local experiences. Mega sports events such as the Olympics and World Cups can be a catalyst for tourism development if successfully leveraged in terms of destination branding, infrastructure development, and other economic and social benefits. In addition, sports tourism may provide plenty of opportunities for neighboring countries of a certain state which is set to host a mega-sport event. For example, the Iranian island of Kish in the Persian Gulf has announced its readiness to host Qatar World Cup spectators. According to Iran’s deputy tourism minister Ali-Asghar Shalbafian, Iran should benefit from the 2022 World Cup as a considerable opportunity to promote its distinctive travel attractions. “With the World Cup being held in a neighboring country, Iran can benefit from this important event, which if carefully planned, can bring significant wins for various sectors, especially the tourism industry in the country,” he noted. Local officials say, the proximity of Kish to Qatar, and the lower cost of staying on this island make it possible for spectators and teams to stay here during the World Cup, which will be held from November 21 to December 18, 2022. As mentioned by the UNWTO, sports tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors in tourism. More and more tourists are interested in sports activities during their trips whether sports are the main objective of travel or not.

Create: Nov 30, 2021     Edit: Nov 30, 2021     Regional News
UNWTO and the Council of Europe to Promote Cultural Routes

UNWTO and the Council of Europe to Promote Cultural Routes

United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the Council of Europe will work together to develop the opportunities tourism offers to local communities and to enhance the tourist experience along the European region’s Cultural Routes. The joint actions will be aimed at recognizing the added value that cultural routes offer for sustainable tourism development, cultural heritage safeguarding and intercultural dialogue. The collaboration will also further highlight the routes’ potential for advancing social, economic and cultural development, benefitting both Europe and its partner countries by strengthening cultural and historical ties. International Year of Creative Economy 2021 The two organizations will be collaborating first in the sphere of creative tourism, to showcase good practices in line with the International Year of Creative Economy 2021, and further promote destinations encompassed by the Enlarged Partial Agreement on Cultural Routes (EPA) of the Council of Europe. UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “All along the Cultural Routes, tourism has the power to support jobs and create other development opportunities for communities. It is also a chance to protect and promote cultural heritage and to celebrate creativity.” Council of Europe Secretary General Marija Pejčinović Burić adds: “The Cultural Routes programme plays an important role in the promotion of Europe’s rich cultural heritage, in addition to being an effective tool for fostering intercultural dialogue and transnational co-operation. We are delighted that the UN’s World Tourism Organisation will contribute its expertise to the Cultural Routes programme on the basis of this Memorandum of Understanding.” Enhancing accessibility The partnership will also see UNWTO and the Council of Europe harness their individual expertise and technical capabilities to further develop Cultural Routes, through research, training and policymaking. Special attention will be paid to the mapping of Cultural Routes and to promoting greater accessibility for persons with disabilities and specific access requirements.

Create: Nov 26, 2021     Edit: Nov 26, 2021     International News
Iran ready to share cultural heritage expertise with Asian courtiers

Iran ready to share cultural heritage expertise with Asian courtiers

The Islamic Republic of Iran is prepared to offer expertise for the conservation of historical monuments and relics in Asia. On Thursday, Hadi Ahmadi-Roueeni, a senior official with the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts announced the country’s readiness to share experience for the preservation of historical monuments with Asian countries, Iran Press reported. Establishing a fund to protect endangered cultural heritage in Asia and border-free associations of professionals in Asia as well as sharing experiences among the continental expert community would improve the conservation of the legacies, the official explained. He also called on all countries to join hands in various realms of political, academic, and professional levels to help restore the endangered historical legacies in countries suffering such problems as war, unrest, and occupation. Ahmadi-Roueeni made the remarks on Thursday on the second day of the first forum of “Asian Dialogue for Cultural Heritage Conservation” which was virtually held in China. The biggest  Asian cultural heritage event is hosted by China on October 27 and 28 with the slogan of “Promoting Dialogue among Civilizations and Shaping the Future of the Asian”. According to organizers, the dialogue aims to move forward with the Asian Initiative for Cultural Heritage Conservation and open a new chapter for exchanges and mutual learning among Asian civilizations. Senior officials from 36 Asian countries and five international organizations including UNESCO, the International Council of Museums, and the International Council on Monuments and Sites participated in the conference in the form of an online meeting, Global Times reported. At the conference, the Asian Alliance for Cultural Heritage Conservation was jointly initiated by 10 Asian countries – China, Iran, Armenia, Cambodia, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Syria, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen – was officially established. According to data from the UNESCO World Heritage Center, about 50 percent of the world’s endangered world cultural heritage sites are located in Asia. “Preserving our heritage is not a luxury – it is a prerequisite for ensuring that future generations can inherit an identity, a history, a voice, and a sense of ownership of their past and future,” said Xing Qu, deputy director-general of UNESCO. Xing expressed thanks to China for organizing the event and for helping to address the challenges facing cultural heritage. The ceremony also set up the Asian Fund for Cultural Heritage Conservation as a special fund to support programs and projects in conservation, research, and joint archaeology concerning cultural heritage conservation in Asia.

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


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