THAILAND predicts its tourism market will not recover before 2026

The collapse in tourism due to Covid-19 is expected to cost the global economy over UK£2.9 trillion for 2020 and 2021, far worse than predicted. This is especially difficult for developing countries, who rely heavily on tourism, but who have limited vaccine rollouts.

The losses are despite some nations like the US, UK and France seeing a rebound in some tourism as they have higher vaccine rates. Developing countries could account for as much as 60% of the losses to global GDP due to lack of available vaccinations and there rollout.

The tourism crisis is far from over. With many nations still implementing lockdowns, restrictions, etc, international tourists are not encouraged to venture outside their borders, especially to nations with low vaccination rates. International tourist arrivals were down 88% in the 1st quarter of 2021, compared with the same period in 2019.

At the earliest, it is thought a return to pre-pandemic arrivals of international tourists globally will not be seen until at least 2023.

As Asia continues to see a new wave of the pandemic, with more lockdowns, Thailand has said that it does not expect tourism to return to good levels for another 5 years! This is not good news considering Thailand is one of the most tourism-dependent economies in the world. With such a long recovery predicted, many workers in the industry will be forced to find jobs in another sector.

Bangkok, Thailand

The country welcomed nearly 40 million visitors in 2019. The resort island of Phuket is open to tourists but with strict rules in place. It was due to be followed by 10 other destinations in October. The country only expects 500,000 visitors this year, a fraction of the 6.7 million who came in 2020 (almost all in the first 3 months of the year).

PLAZA PREMIUM GROUP INTRODUCES LAND-TO-AIR AIRPORT EXPERIENCE AT QINGDAO JIAODONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Plaza Premium Group, the world’s leading airport hospitality service provider, in joint venture with Qingdao International Airport Group and Capital Airport VIP Service Management Co. Ltd. has introduced its first land-to-air premium airport experience which features exclusive, integrated services and facilities, including four Plaza Premium Lounges, one Aerotel and a suite of VIP services including private meeting rooms, meet-and-greet, curb-to-apron escort services and fast track immigration clearance in China’s newest airport Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport (TAO).

The unique land-to-air premium experience is offered in two areas: a three-storey VIP Building located at the Arrival area and 3 Plaza Premium Lounge outlets at the Departure area. Covering a total 6,500sq.m of the airport space, the multicomplex VIP Building offers end-to-end airport hospitality services from dining, lounging, meetand-greet to personalised concierge and accommodation. The tri-party joint venture is missioned to bring world-class airport hospitality to China’s new major aviation hub which spans 478,000sq.m and is equipped to host over 35 million travellers annually.

Level 1: Houses 11 VIP rooms that offer designated spaces for corporations to provide private and premium airport services to affluent travellers. Services include private check-in, concierge, dining, lounge, and a special fast track or curb-to-apron service for those departing at the Domestic terminal.

Level 2: Award-winning The 2,673sq.ft lounge tea rooms, an Aerobar, meeting rooms, individual

Level 3: Aerotel Qingdao is Building and within a fivecheckpoint. Designed to with travellers’ needs and houses 54 comfortable crafted with quality bedding, powerful showers, highfirst and second floors of the of the extensive leisure Plaza Premium Lounge, as various locally inspired and international food options. services by Plaza Premium Lounge. includes three private dining areas, 3 massage service, concierge, VIP work stations and a souvenir shop.

located on the 3rd floor of the VIP minute walk to the nearest security promise a “Good Sleep at The Airport” convenience in mind, the Aerotel rooms across three suite types, pillow options, soothing lighting, speed Wi-Fi and in-room IPTV. On the building, guests can take advantage facilities inside the VIP Building’s well dine in the restaurant serving

Departure Experience: A relaxing journey at Plaza Premium Lounge for domestic travellers At the new airport, travellers are able to enjoy 3 pay-per-use Plaza Premium Lounges located on the airside 3rd floor of Terminal 1, situated near the boarding gates, as well as on the East and West sides of the Central Landscape Area respectively. Varying based on the specific lounge, the Lounges offer fast track services, food and beverage options, showers, private resting areas, massage and beauty services, and VIP meet and greet.

The unique land-to-air experience commenced on the opening of Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport on 12 August 2021. All services are available for reservation on https://www.plazapremiumlounge.com/ or via partnered distribution channels and corporations. Since 2019, Plaza Premium Group has opened Aerotel at Beijing Daxing International Airport, and recently opened the first high-speed railway lounges at Changsha, Guangzhou and Shenzhen.

TOSCANA RESORT CASTELFALFI LAUNCHES ECO-CONSCIOUS CULINARY EXPERIENCES

Toscana Resort Castelfalfi, situated in the Tuscan village of Castelfalfi amidst 2,700 acres of protected countryside, has launched a series of nature-forward and organic foodie experiences. Recognised for its eco-conscious luxury hotel and villa rental offering, the newly reopened resort is part of an estate, home to diverse agriculture and wine production that is committed to supporting the local economy and resident community through sustainable values and practices. In an effort to connect travellers with the land’s deep rural roots and unique agricultural heritage, these new experiences showcase the ingredients and craftsmanship that go into creating some of Tuscany’s famed cuisine and popular dishes, taking guests on an immersive gastronomic journey throughout their stay.

Highlights include: -Fine Wine and Extra Virgin Olive Oil Tastings -Rosso Toscano Cooking School Classes -Truffle Hunting Tours with Local ‘Tartufaios’ -Vegetable Garden Farm-to-Fork Experiences -Adopt a Vineyard and/or Olive Grove Initiative

With a castle, 15th century church, and a welcoming local community, Castelfalfi is a destination within itself, comprised of a 5* luxury hotel; apartments and villas to rent or buy; 27hole golf course; an expansive wellness spa; and 6 restaurants specialising in local cuisine.

Within each dining establishment, the Castelfalfi team seeks out and sources ethical local suppliers to offer guests the most environmentally-friendly products. Additional activities on the estate include hiking, biking, golf, tennis, horseback riding, swimming, and more.

PROVIDES A STAYCATION STEEPED IN HISTORY FOLLOWING UK£5.6 MILLION REFURBISHMENT

Discover a rich history and elegant new design at this Magnificent Elizabethan Manor House Hotel

As UK summer staycations continue to soar, luxurious hotel Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa is delighted to open its doors and welcome guests to the heart of rural Warwickshire, following an extensive UK£5.6 million refurbishment. Guests can expect newly refurbished bedrooms complete with rich, warm designs, upgraded guest spaces with a contemporary twist, a stunning restaurant and bar featuring original 16th century oak panelling, and a newly renovated spa and wedding venue.

This unique 125-year-old property boasts charming grounds, complete with an 11th century church and a listed, ornate topiary garden, steeped in history. A variety of conference spaces have also been refreshed, and an ambient library adorned with a ceiling of floating books provides a light filled area for relaxation or inspiration, said to be where William Shakespeare wrote his famous comedy ‘As You Like It’.

Rooms & Design

Many of the bedrooms have been expertly upgraded with sumptuous new furnishings. Four poster beds, period fireplaces and contemporary fabrics ensure a charming blend of traditional and modern, with elegant and refined design.

Communal spaces have also been enhanced with a new look, still in keeping with the former 16th century Elizabethan home’s historic charm. The incredible transformation includes the grand welcoming reception area, Great Hall, bar, lounge and gallery, and the Stuart Restaurant for guests to indulge in everything from themed afternoon teas to exclusive gastronomic delights with locally sourced produce. Drawing inspiration from the romantic English landscape, historic origins and the notable voices past and present that have retreated to Billesley, the hotel is the perfect sanctuary for guests looking to feel re-energised and inspired.

The hotel’s new makeover has kept its glorious floor-to-ceiling oak wood panelling complemented and elevated with a new rich colour palette of blues and golds. Plush, velvet furniture has been added throughout the property, whilst artwork by Pratiksha Tayal brings a contemporary twist to the traditional paintings that previously adorned the walls, creating a timeless luxury haven for all guests to enjoy.

Woven through History

Listed in the 1086 Domesday book commissioned by William the Conqueror, the Billesley Estate has an expansive history dating back to 705 AD. One of its most famous visitors includes none other than William Shakespeare himself, who allegedly married Anne Hathaway in the All Saints church next to the hotel, and who’s granddaughter followed suit by getting wed in the very same church. William Shakespeare famously wrote lines from his play ‘As you Like It’ from the library and as such many nods to Shakespeare can be found around the hotel from hand crafted feather pieces to more traditional artwork, allowing guests to become immersed in the rich tapestry of Billesley’s history.

Wellness Retreat

Those looking to wind down can experience a number of indulgent beauty therapies within the newly refurbished Decleor spa. Guests can take a dip in the pool followed by a steam and a sauna, or make use of the secluded yoga hut and fantastic gym facilities. The romantic and historic topiary garden offers an idea backdrop for sunrise yoga and meditation which guests can enjoy on their own accord after picking up a yoga mat from reception.

Bucolic Surroundings

Located in 11 acres of beautiful countryside just outside the medieval town of Stratford-Upon-Avon and close to many engaging locations, this 16th Century country hotel provides a sanctuary from which to feel relaxed and inspired. Enveloped in rolling countryside, Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa draws inspirations from nature, creating spaces to reconnect. The exquisite, listed topiary garden planted over 125 years ago, has been curated and shaped to form giant chess pieces, inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. The exquisite setting provides another unique opportunity for guests to spend time unearthing the true spirit of Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa.

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