November 2022 edition

This year sees MICE & TOURISM around the Worlde-Magazine celebrate its silver anniversary 25 years in publication.

We began with just 25 paper copies sent out to clients by post informing them of events and news from around the World.

As technology advanced, so did we and soon we became an online publication in 1997.

We have expanded and adapted over time and today we are one of the more unusual e-magazines serving the ever changing world of travel, tourism & MICE and all the sectors within.

Always offering you a new perspective or an interesting feature, you can be sure we will be here for many more years to come.

Thank you to all our readers for their continued support over the years.

THE MICE & TOURISM around the World e-Magazine Team

Message from

Caroline-Artemis

Welcome to Autumn and the November edition of the MICE & TOURISM around the World e Magazine!

Our world is a different place from 3 years ago and that means change! All sectors of industry are changing including at airport terminals.

Following the huge decline in travel due to the health crisis of 2020 2022, passenger figures, although positive, are not yet back to 2019 levels. This not only affects the airlines, but airports too as terminals offer a wide variety of places to eat and shop while waiting for flights.

The market for high end luxury shops at airports has gone; the traditional airport shopping experience is changing and fast!

With many retailers no longer operating at airports due to reduced passenger levels and due to the lack of high end spender travellers, the passengers that are travelling more now are younger, less affluent and more tech savvy, meaning they want to conduct shopping online including while at the airport.

Airport retail needs to change to meet this new demographic and way of shopping. Less passengers, fewer sales, means less revenue and reduced profits, therefore no longer making it viable to have a profitable store at the airport. As a result, as we are already seeing across many major European airports, there are more vacant retail spaces in airport terminals.

Together, airport management and retailers need to quickly adapt and rethink their sales and marketing strategies.

In some airports around the world, the empty shops are being filled with ingenious businesses that service passengers, like short fitness exercise classes, 30min cookery classes, wellbeing centres, airport waiting music rooms European airports need to catch up with the new trends. The majority of major Asian airports have adapted to these new circumstances and been offering these kinds of services several years

Enjoy this November edition!

Caroline Artemis Laspas co founder & editor

The Park, Singapore Airport

Sound proofs pods, Abu Dhabi, UAE

HOW 'REVENGE TRAVEL' HAS SAVED THE TOURISM INDUSTRY

by Dimitri Laspas

Piraeus harbour, Greece

After two years of lockdown due to the ‘health crisis’ and with many postponements of holidays, 2022 saw a huge upsurge in travel. This is partly due to people needing to fulfil their postponed holidays that were booking back in 2020 or 2021 or risk losing them altogether, but also, this year, people felt that they could travel, people wanted to travel, they needed to spread their wings, they needed to travel simply because they could.

Venice, Italy

This is now known as ‘revenge travel’!

It’s a new phenomenon that has people who are tired of mundane everyday routines due to forced lockdowns to travel to nearby destinations for short breaks.

However, this has resulted in several issues being seen this summer; namely the enormous chaos at many airports around the world especially in major European airports who were ‘famously’ claiming to be the most organised and ready to conquer any uncontrollable factors. As it turned out, they were not prepared for the influx in demand and did not have the employee infrastructure set up post Covid to cater for such a quick return in demand.

It also helped many countries who typically relied on tourism as a pillar of their economies to gradually get back on their feet, as they were seeing arrivals from nearby countries rather than their more traditional long haul source markets.

However, what it saw most of all, was a huge demand for domestic tourism. Many were still too anxious to risk being stranded far from home if a quick lockdown. Having seen the scenes at airport, they decided not to risk big delays and likely cancellations, so they decided to explore locally. For many countries this upsurge in domestic tourism saved their industry and was a welcome boost to the economy.

When you say ‘revenge’ it is most often associated with a negative meaning, but this new travel related revenge tourism is all about getting back to what we love… travel.

www.miceandtourismaroundtheworld.com

The Temple of Poseidon, Sounio, Greece

There are some who decided it was now or never to take that extra special holiday as they had saved up over the 2 years of forced lockdown. Others just wanted to go back to their home countries and catch up with friends and family, while others wanted to go back to the same holiday place they always go to, as it makes them feel good and they know what to expect when they get there, etc.

Whatever the reason for the trip, I think most of us feel that after 2 years of enforced lockdown, led us to think that ‘life is too short’ and you have to make it worthwhile and special if you can.

Revenge Travel resulted in a huge rise in wellness travel with many people wanting vacations that get them closer to nature, that offer spa and holistic elements to the trip, to experience places that allow them to feel the earth, wind and sea and explore the earth for all its natural beauty.

It is clear that be it a domestic holiday or a once in a lifetime dream holiday, people really wanted to explore the world and seek experiences that make them feel alive.

Zagreb, Croatia

The Aegean sea, Greece

M.I.C.E & Events News

Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions, Venues & Events

This month sees the Grand Edition of MEET THE BIDDER, taking place in Warsaw, Poland from 23 25 November. For several years Meet the Bidder events have been enjoying growing popularity, trust and attendance, proving that even in the era of ubiquitous Internet nothing can replace the most important thing the direct contact between contractors.

The Polish market has grown hugely and offers great potential to the regional and international MICE sector. In sessions of 15 minute appointments, the value of participating and making first contacts via face to face meetings is invaluable together with other interesting more relaxed networking events.

This year a post tour of Krakow will follow the two days of business meetings.

MICE & TOURISM around the World e Magazine will again be present supporting the event as a proud Media Partner for the must attend event in Poland.

RESCHEDULING OF IT&CM CHINA AND CTW CHINA

2022 In Person Event 21 23 March 2023 Virtual Networking Event 11 12 April 2023

Due to COVID 19 prevention and control regulations, the organisers of IT&CM China and CTW China 2022 have rescheduled the Shanghai based MICE and Corporate Travel double bill events to 21 23 March 2023 at The Anandi Hotel and Spa Shanghai followed by an online networking and conference segment on 11 12 April 2023.

Organisers TTG Events and China based CTG MICE Service Company Limited, in a joint statement stated, “We see positive indications towards the return of physical events, however the situation is still very dynamic, and we have a responsibility to ensure our delegates have the safest and best possible experience. We look forward to re connecting with everyone in March 2023 in Shanghai. The region’s industry has been waiting to be able to come together and meet with quality venues, destinations, suppliers, and buyers in person.

IT&CM China and CTW China will provide a safe platform to do so, as well as also demonstrate the industry's commitment to the resumption of Chinese MICE travel and events.”

For registration and more information, please visit www.itcmchina.com

PHILOXENIA is the oldest and annual tourism exhibition in Greece, starting back in 1985. Till today, it highlights and the tourism business of the country maintaining its strong brand name throughout the years. Every November Greek and international tourism stakeholders meet in the northern city of Thessaloniki to conduct business, exchange ideas and highlight the new offering the country has to offer the international market.

The 3 day tourism event is attended by companies and organisations from all over the tourism spectrum (Greek and international tourist destinations, hotels, travel agencies, travel agents, specialised press and media), as well as by selected invited hosted buyers from the target countries for the industry.

PHILOXENIA 2022 will host approx. 120 Hosted Buyers from abroad to take part in the B2B tourism exhibition programme. Through the scheduled meetings, exhibitors have the chance to promote their products to international markets.

This year, Heraklion, the gateway and capital of the island of Crete, one of the most important islands of the Mediterranean, is the honoured city.

It is a city where you can enjoy an endless summer, with unique and authentic experiences 24/7! It is also steeped in history with its Byzantine fortress or ‘Kastro’ at its heart.

The International Conference of PHILOXENIA is now an integral part of the entire event, which aims to explore current issues of concern to the tourism business community in the country. Renowned Greek and foreign speakers from the field of tourism, academics, researchers, representatives of organisations and prominent executives of tourism companies, meet at the conference panels presenting studies, views and successful case studies that highlight the quality characteristics of the tourism product.

NEW SITE CEO

MS. ANNETTE GREGG,

CMM, MBA

The Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) has appointed Ms. Annette Gregg, CMM, MBA, as its new CEO, serving both SITE and SITE Foundation.

Ms. Gregg takes over from Interim Executive Director Ms. Rebecca Wright, and joins SITE following her role as Chief Revenue Officer with Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and a career long legacy in the business events industry working across the full MICE spectrum, from corporate end user to destination marketing organisations.

Ms. Gregg will lead the association as the industry continues to rebound, facing a hopeful future with incentive travel firmly embedded as a driver of enterprise culture and an indispensable element in corporate reward and recognition programmes.

MCI GROUP

EXPANDS ITS PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFERING

mci group, a global next gen platform for marketing innovation and breakthrough communication in the digital age, expands its public affairs offer by acquiring the Business Bridge Europe (BBE) consultancy, a public affairs firm created in 2008.

BBE is known in Europe for its C level annual political conferences including the European Space Conference (the 15th edition will take place in January 2023). At present BBE is one of the mci group agencies, specialising in global public affairs & communication, based in Brussels.

With this acquisition, mci group offers customers a 360° suite of solutions for corporate firms, associations and institutions, from advocacy, association management, and strategic and digital communications to event management. The 130+ team will focus their expertise on strategic domains like aerospace, defence, digital, environment, energy and mobility to clients.

IACC ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC ALLIANCE WITH MPI

IACC, the global association representing the top 1% of small to midsize conference and meeting venues, has announced details of a strategic partnership with MPI, the largest global meetings and events industry association. The alliance will see the two organisations working to advance the global events community using shared knowledge and connected intelligence.

The partnership will also see IACC engaging with MPI’s diverse and substantial network of more than 90,000 meeting and event professionals across 70 chapters to promote the world’s best meeting venues and bring together the brightest industry minds.

The move highlights IACC’s commitment to supporting every one of its 400 member venues with advanced research and resources as well as prime networking opportunities.

IACC and MPI will collaborate on a number of initiatives including thought leadership discussions as well as the creation of content and campaigns that reinforce equity, diversity, inclusion, and wellness as key components to a successful sector. Together, the organisations will share education at their live events and develop online learning platforms to deliver rich resources in the form of blogs, webinars, and best practice briefings

FIND THE RIGHT PEOPLE TO REACH YOUR GOALS IN 2023 AT EMITT

The tourism and travel industry was one of the hardest hit industries by the pandemic, but it is gaining momentum again. This year, the number of tourists increased by 210% compared to 2021 and revenues mirror the same growth.

It is expected that, in 2023, the number of tourists will reach 600 million and the total revenue will reach UK£840 billion.

For those who want to benefit from this momentum and enter the next season with the right tools and partnerships, EMITT is a one stop shop. Secure your stand at the 2023 edition of EMITT to meet thousands of industry professionals, buyers and tour operators and grow your business in the lucrative tourism industry.

In addition to its international recognition and unique opportunities it offers to its exhibitors, one of the key reasons why destinations and companies operating in the tourism and travel industry from around the world choose EMITT is the exhibition’s visitor profile.

Stand booking continues to be strong for the 2023 edition of EMITT. This year, more than 33,500 industry professionals and 202 buyers from 52 countries were at the exhibition to meet our 461 exhibitors. As a result, our exhibitors were able to generate UK£350 million worth of new business and 96% of them said they were satisfied with the exhibition.

In addition to its international recognition and the unique opportunities it offers, one of the key reasons why destinations and companies from around the world choose EMITT is the exhibition’s Hosted Buyer Programme.

Every year, tens of thousands of industry professionals and tour operators looking for new services and destinations to offer their customers visit the exhibition to meet the right people. Buyers and tour operators from more than 25 countries including from Turkey, the Middle East, Europe, Russia & CIS regions have already confirmed their attendance to the programme.

KOREA MICE ROADSHOW 2022 - MANILA PHILIPPINES

On 14th October KTO held a Korea MICE Roadshow in Manila, welcoming over 400 members of the travel industry sector for a night of networking, events and performances.

Special this year the Roadshow marked the 10th Anniversary of the opening of the KTO Manila Office. The event turned out to be the largest Roadshow since the opening of the overseas office in 2012.

Buyers and attendees learned more about Korea as a MICE destination through a MICE Mini Mart (B2B Session), MICE Night (MICE Info Session), and a special meeting held to discuss visa related issues.

A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE FOR TOURISM

The Municipality of Chania and Bespoke Communications, with the support of the Greek National Tourism Office organised the Forum ‘CREaTE: A Sustainable Future for Tourism’ recently in Chania, Crete Greece. CREaTE aims to become an annual meeting of the international community with innovative local projects developing in Crete. It also hopes to act as an ‘incubator’ of ideas focused on sustainable tourism and the dynamics of the green future of the tourism industry, in a place with a rich tradition in hospitality services.

The three topics discussed at this year's event were: Sustainability and the impact on the profitability of tourism businesses; Financial solutions and tools to support the tourism industry; and The best sustainable local case studies, that is, the application in practice and the analysis of the experience of Cretan entrepreneurs.

GLOBAL HOTELS & RESORTS

19TH- 20TH DECEMBER, 2022 | LE MÉRIDIEN SAIGON HOTEL, HO CHI MINH CITY - VIETNAM

“Enable the prescience of Opportunities across the Land of Possibilities”

Tourism has been one of the major contributors in Vietnamese GDP and post pandemic growth in tourist movement has been one of the best in the South East Asian market. Enhanced air connectivity and relaxed Visa norms are luring global travellers to visit Vietnam since direct connectivity is saving time and making the experience rather hassle free. Vietnam its cities, airlines and hospitality brands received over 40 awards from the 29th World Travel Awards. Vietnam was awarded the title of 'Asia's Leading Destination'.

The General Statistics Office reported that Vietnam registered a 16.3% increase in FDI realisation which is a capital boost to the economy. The chart below shows a constant and rapid increase in the travellers coming to the country and we expect the numbers hitting the pre pandemic levels within 12 months’ period. Vietnam aims for 5 million international arrivals in 2022, domestic arrivals exceed 60 million target. A total of 602,000 foreign tourists visited Vietnam in H1 2022.

After analysing the current rate growth rate of hospitality sector in the region, we at Bricsa Consulting are proud to announce the 4th Edition of ‘Global Hotels and Resorts 2022’, a 2 day strategic business conference that is scheduled to be held on 19th 20th December, 2022 at Le Méridien Saigon Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam. The conference focuses on creating a platform for hotel developers to not only explore business opportunities in the Asia Pacific region but also to get in line with the key market trends in the hospitality industry across the globe and ways in which we can tackle the diversifying market.

Highlights of the conference include:

• Exploring investment opportunities in the hospitality industry across the Asia Pacific region

• Identifying the significant market trends in the competitive hospitality market

• Understanding the needs of a diversifying market and discussing ways to tackle it

• Reviewing policies and framework for land acquisitions and FDIs to promote inbound investment

• Networking with the governing authorities, major hotel developers and solution providers

• Exploring insights in the Casino and Gaming sector in Vietnam

For more information, visit: https://ghr.bricsaconsulting.com/

GREECE PRESENT NEW EXHIBITION STAND DESIGN

The Greek National Tourism Organisation has a new exhibition stand design ready to attract more tourism via its presence at international tourism events. The first of those will be at WTM 2022.

The new Visit Greece multifunctional stand design highlights the corporate identity of Visit Greece and its co exhibitors, as well as individual elements of their advertising campaign, ‘Greece | You will want to stay forever’. In addition it maintains an approach that projects the simple, historical and architectural elements that enable visitors to the stand to interact with the basic concepts of Greek culture and history through its 3 main pillars ‘Experience Greece’, ‘Feels like Greece’ and ‘Delve into Greece’.

The new stand plays with all 5 senses and invites tourism professionals to explore the Greece of today in perfect harmony with the historical culture of the country.

The classic blue and white colour scheme takes you directly to think of Greece and with ‘pebble’ seating, resembling the beaches you

can almost smell the sea and hear the waves. The stand will see a contemporary culinary offering. Gastronomy is a tool of soft cultural diplomacy with the aim of a coherent foreign strategic policy.

Intangible cultural diplomacy combined with culinary tourism, as well as its other alternative forms like religious tourism, are the guarantees for a healthy and strong, outgoing economy.

IT&CM ASIA AND CTW ASIA-PACIFIC 2022

FIRST-EVER HYBRID EDITION WRAPS UP SUCCESSFULLY!

The 30th IT&CM Asia and 25th CTW Asia Pacific 2022 delivered an unforgettable edition, marking the events’ first ever hybrid edition with a buzzing show floor of activities and entertainment by major pavilions, increased demand for targeted networking sessions, and added knowledge sessions.

Welcoming over 1,200 validated and qualified unique in person and remote delegates over 3 days, the 2022 show saw 363 exhibitors from 27 new and returning Territories / Countries like Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Monaco, Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and many more. Including the 414 MICE, Association and Corporate Buyers and over 60 Media, who took advantage of the bountiful procurement and networking opportunities.

Meeting and exchanging contacts for potential business in the Asia Pacific regions and garnering fresh perspectives was the highlight for Team Umbrella Events’ Mi Anna Karin Johnson, who attended for the first time.

IT&CMA and CTW APAC 2022 Previews An Immersive Line Up of Activities

The distinguished keynote panel included Max Boontawee Jantasuwan, President of SITE Thailand Chapter; Waikin Wong, Regional Director Asia Pacific of ICCA; and moderated Karen Yue, Group Editor of TTG Travel Trade Publishing, explored the various changes the business events and travel industry had to face during the pandemic, and discussed the strategies moving forward into the future.

The first evening culminates with the ever popular Opening Ceremony and Welcome Reception, co hosted with our strategic destination partner and host country, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB). The two hour extravaganza featured a delectable variety of foods accompanied with a dazzling performance by The SwingKings.

Throughout the 3 day event, delegates can also look forward to other education components like the IT&CM Asia MICE

Navigating the post pandemic landscape is one of the key focuses of the event this year. The Opening Keynote presented by Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) shared insights on critical ways the MICE industry have and should progress, emphasising on the continued value of ‘phygital’ a blend of physical and digital events; embedded wellness; and inclusive events that are universally accessible for a diverse audience.

Opportunities were boundless for delegates to meet new people and reconnect with familiar faces after a 2 year long of meeting virtually.

Delegates also had the chance to obtain first hand information from NTOs such as Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), MEET Taiwan, Tourism Promotions Board, Philippines (TPB), Promotion Bureau of the Principality of Monaco Asia, Korea Tourism Organisation, Incheon Tourism Organisation and Gyeonggi Tourism Organization on their latest highlights and development during the Brand Engagement sessions over the 2 days. Over 30 shortlisted buyers had the opportunity to hear about the Thailand’s latest MICE updates during the 20 minute Exhibition Walkabout by TCEB. Prizes were also given away at the end of the session.

Destinations and organisations also displayed experiential elements at their booths with activities, giveaways and entertainment. The highlights included taking selfie with the Magic Thailand AR Graffiti and receiving ‘Thai Dessert Soap’ at the Thailand booth, DIY handicrafts at the Taiwan booth along with a virtual reality experience showcasing Taiwan in 360°.

The networking and educations opportunities continued on the virtual platform where exhibitors and buyers were still able to conduct business appointments at the 3D Virtual Exhibition and Walk in meets and watch the on demand content including knowledge sessions, brand engagements, buyer procurement showcases.

REGION OF CENTRAL MACEDONIA, GREECE TAKES PART AT TTG RIMINI 2022

The

The exhibition took place from 12 14 October in Rimini and was attended by professionals and operators of the international tourism market. With direct flights from Milan and Rome to Thessaloniki for 2023 confirms the strong interest shown by tourism professionals for new destinations, both geographical and thematic, and particularly for the Central Macedonia region.

At the national stand of the Greek National Tourism Board, the Region of Central Macedonia, the Tourist Organisations of Thessaloniki and Halkidiki, as well as tourism professionals from the region held meetings with institutions and professionals of the Italian tourism market.

As the meetings showed, the region is a favourable destination not only for Italians' summer vacations, but also among their first choices for travel, satisfying their desire to get to know and delve deeper into Greek history and culture, to experience unique experiences, to explore nature and taste traditional recipes, elements that the Region has in great abundance and high quality.

knowledge sessions, CTW Asia Pacific conference sessions and partner event Future Leaders Forum, emphasised a forward looking theme, helmed by leading industry partners and experts, to deliver their expertise.

2 Day Exhibition and Appointments Open at IT&CMA and CTW APAC 2022

IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific 2023 will be held from 26 28 September 2023 at Bangkok, Thailand.

Region of Central Macedonia participated in the TTG TRAVEL EXPERIENCE 2022 tourism exhibition, which is considered the largest organised event for tourism in Italy.

th CONVENTA EXPERIENCE: 1 - 2 FEBRUARY 2023, LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA

Taking green events to the next level and with a serious commitment to achieving it, #GREENCONVENTA has a clear commitment for a more sustainable meeting industry.

It all starts with long term planning. After that, a transition is not that hard. In our case, we based our methodology on the 5R model; Rethink, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Refuse.

CONVENTA WILL BE DECARBONISED BY 2035: Our responsibility for the future is to organise events with the smallest possible environmental footprint. The time we have to react is short. The social damage caused by irresponsible event organising will affect later generations and our ecosystem. Our global ecological debt is continuing to rise, and it is our responsibility to try to reverse it.

275.4 tonnes of CO2 emissions were produced during Conventa 2022. Reducing negative impacts on the environment is one of Conventa’s most important objectives. That is why this year the organisers meticulously measured the carbon footprint of the entire event. The carbon footprint was calculated by ClimatePartner, based on measurements of emissions generated at the GR Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre.

88.2% of Conventa's total carbon footprint is a result of the transport of participants. We are well aware that calculating the carbon footprint is only the beginning. The real purpose of this year's calculation was to identify the activities that cause the most greenhouse gas emissions.

"As organisers, we are firm believers that the positive social impacts of the project will be evened out with the event's carbon footprint once reduced by 60%. Conventa is bound to become carbon neutral by 2035 one of the key strategic goals of Conventa's sustainable transformation." Gorazd Čad, Co founder of Conventa. ‘Hope dies last, and before we find out what politicians have figured out, we must take a look at our industry. In actuality, we can do a ton for the environment ourselves. Rather than negotiating and debating our environmental sins, we should pay the piper and start by changing our events.

The organisers of Conventa have been aware of this since the project’s inception. Our green thinking was awarded by IBTM World in 2010. What we consider more important than the award is that our goals are systematic and transparent. We are firm believers that even in apocalyptic times we can satisfy the needs of attendees whilst reducing our carbon footprint and other negative effects on the environment.

If we do not balance the organisation of Conventa with the environment’s bearing capacity, as event organisers, we will be co responsible for the repercussions. Hence, Conventa will continue to offer the option of attending online due to its new hybrid nature. Consequently, the event’s negative effects on the environment will be reduced. Furthermore, we are implementing an array of other measures that will help preserve our planet. We find it fitting that instead of claiming to have the greenest event, we strive for a minimised carbon footprint.

The biggest B2B event in the global yacht charter industry, the International Charter Expo (ICE) is organised by Croatian Yachtmaster Group and brings together over 1,500 participants from 5 continents at in person events and more than 300 participants at virtual events.

The 8th International Charter Expo (ICE) 2022 will take place in Zagreb from 7 9 December and is set to be the largest event yet. Croatia has many charter companies and one of the largest charter fleets in the world, making it the ideal location for the event.

ATF 2023 POSTPONES TO FEBRUARY 2023

The annual ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF), which includes the Travel Exchange (Travex), has been postponed from January to 2 5 February 2023. The event will still take place in the host city of Yogyakarta.

With the theme ‘Empower Talents, Embrace Technology, Recover Tourism’, ATF 2023 will be held at the Jogja Expo Center (JEC) Yogyakarta, the biggest business events venue in Central Java, while NTO and government meetings will be at Yogyakarta Marriott Hotel. The opening ceremony will be held at Prambanan Temple, with the farewell dinner hosted at the Kraton (Royal Palace).

Yogyakarta is the gateway to 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites; Borobudur and Prambanan Temple.

MITT 29th INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION FOR TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY

From 16 18 March 2023, MITT, the largest tourism exhibition in Russia for tourism and leisure will take place in the city and offer an international business platform for countries, regions and travel companies from all over the world to conduct business with the Russian market.

The MITT is the largest and only B2B event which attracts the largest audience of representatives of the tourist industry from Russian regions and from all over the world. MITT is one of the 5 largest tourism exhibitions in the world.

During the 2022 edition of MITT, 9,197 professional visitors from 44 foreign countries and 79 regions of Russia attended. There were 541 participants from 16 countries of the world and 57 regions of Russia across 10,000sq.m. of exhibition space. Across the 3 full days of business events, 137 speakers addressed various topics related to the sector and 14 business events with leading experts also took place highlighting the progress, development and challenges of the sector.

RELIGIOUS TOURISM HAVE FAITH IN DISCOVERY

by Caroline Artemis Laspas

Aghios Nikolaos chapel, Aegina island, Greece

Religious tourism has been practiced since the dawn of civilisation, making it one of the oldest forms of tourism.

It is not only people of faith who participate in religious tourism, some are just wanting to learn more and discover more in depth about the religion or the places that are revered by so many.

If you travelled to India, you will want to visit the Taj Mahal; if you visit Istanbul/Constantinople, you would make a trip to Aghia Sophia Cathedral; a trip to Yangon, Myanmar would have to include a visit to the Shwedagon Pagoda, to the Abu Dhabi, U.A.E you will visit the Grand Mosque and in Thailand, every corner sees a stunning golden temple to admire. A trip to any sacred place is religious tourism and these places hold special meaning to different people. There are several reasons why people travel either individually or as a group to religion or spiritual places. Most though wish to fulfil their quest for meaning.

So open you heart and mind and discover the many varied religious tourism opportunities that are on offer all over the world.

Everyone has the right to live the way they wish and conduct their lives according to their belief as long as it does not offend those around them. Any religious tourism should be conducted with the greatest respect and follow the set rules of the place you are visiting be it a church, temple or mosque. These rules can vary but most commonly are in the form of taking off your shoes before entering, being appropriately dressed and acting in a respectful manner.

The world is a wonderfully religious diverse place and through greater understanding of the multitude of religions and beliefs when experienced via religious tourism, it helps to broaden all of our minds and ultimately helps to build bridges and tolerance among us all. At the core of almost all regions are the basic human principles of love, respect, honesty and peace; a oneness that binds us together not pulls us apart.

Religious tourism filters into many aspects of the travel industry; from the many visits made to religious tourist attractions to more purposeful trips like pilgrimages. The largest of which is seen in Mecca in Saudi Arabia each year. Other pilgrimages see the journey as the pilgrimage like the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route in Spain.

The Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon, Myanmar

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Religious tourism also sees monastery visits and guest stays or religious retreats. There are more faith based cruises and faith based camps as well as religious conventions and conferences.

There is not one region in the world where religious tourism does not exist. All across South East Asia, in the countries of Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Singapore, Cambodia, Philippines, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand, not only are they all very religious nations, but Singapore and Vietnam have been highlighted as the most religiously diverse places on earth.

These ASEAN countries have a clear majority religion with Buddhist being represented in Cambodia 96%, Thailand 93%, Myanmar 80%, and Laos 66%; while Muslim is a majority in Indonesia 87%, Brunei 75% and Malaysia 67%. The Philippines is 92% Christian. But these 3 very different religions are not stopping progress and economic success in these nations and they are all happy to be working together to build, in particular, tourism programmes connecting their nations and cultures, as well as highlighting their different religions through religious tourism. They have realised that ‘one size does not fit all’ and are making the most of what ties them together, not what separates them.

Through tourism a greater understanding of faith can be obtained. At the birthplace of 3 great religions, Jerusalem in Israel, thousands of international tourists visit each year, many interested to learn more about the birthplaces of each religion; Jewish, Christian and Muslim.

Aghios Nektarios, Aegina island, Greece

The Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh, India

The Sistine Chapel, the Vatican

Not all religious tourism is on a grand scale; each country has national holidays which if you are lucky enough to be on holiday when they occur, is a wonderful experience. For example, St. Mary’s Day in Greece on 15th August, sees pilgrims travel to the island of Tinos and make the journey from the harbour to the top of the hill and to St. Mary’s Church, on their hands and knees.

Indeed, not all religious tourism is to go to a physical building. Each year millions of Indians make a pilgrimage to the Ganges River to worship and be blessed in its waters.

The Vatican City in Rome is the global centre of Catholicism and sees millions visitors annually. Brazil has great cultural diversity and is equally religiously diverse; ranging from Afro Brazilian beliefs to eastern religions, Protestantism, Christianity, Evangelism and Pentecostalism. All these faiths have shaped the country to be what it is today.

The Aghia Sophia, Istanbul/Constantinople, Turkey

The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe Mexico City, Mexico

Whatever the faith, the fact that religious tourists travel, means that they will need accommodation (whether it be simple or sophisticated), they will visit restaurants and cafés and buy arts and crafts, as well as other products, helping to drive forward the local/national economy.

However you wish to classify religious tourism, it is a huge sector with a wide variety of opportunities, so have faith!

The most famous and most visited religious destinations around the world are: The Vatican City Rome, Italy; Western Wall Jerusalem, Israel; Bodhi Gaya Bodh, India; Karnak Temple Egypt; Golden Temple Amritsar, India (Approximately 50,000 Sikh pilgrims pay their respects here. Despite being a religious site, the temple is an open pilgrimage spot for people of any faith and creed making it the 3rd most visited pilgrims site in the world); Notre Dame Paris, France (although being rebuilt at present); Al Haram Mosque Mecca, Saudi Arabia; Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe Mexico City (and the 2nd most visited Catholic church in the world after Saint Peter’s Basilica); Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanams Temple Andhra Pradesh, India and also in India, Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi.

The Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Evangelistria, Tinos island, Greece

Airlines & Aviation News

GLOBAL AVIATION AGREES NET ZERO PLAN

The world of aviation has agreed a long term plan to cut carbon emissions from flying.

At a recent International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) meeting, the pledge to be a net zero aviation sector goal by 2050 was agreed and accepted by the 193 country members of ICAO.

When the world came together in Paris in 2015 to agree on a long term plan to tackle climate change, the aviation and shipping sectors were not there, hence this long awaited goal being announced.

ICAO is not a global regulatory body for the airline industry, but it is the UN body that promotes co operation among member states on aviation. The new agreement is not legally binding and the ICAO cannot impose rules on countries, but national governments usually accept what is agreed at ICAO meetings.

Aviation has been under great pressure to find ways to make flying more eco friendly and less polluting, but without much success.

The ICAO has also agreed for airlines to use the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). Via the scheme, airlines agree a baseline year and all future emissions above the level of that period would have to be offset. The threshold has been set as 85% of 2019 carbon emissions, allowing a higher level of carbon dioxide pollution before airlines must purchase offsets.

It all helps, but this is also an incentive for airlines to development greener jet fuels, and other improvements to decarbonise flying.

HISTORIC FIRST ISRAEL AEROSPACE INDUSTRIES TO EXHIBIT AT BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL AIRSHOW

In a historic first, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), a world class aerospace and defense company, will exhibit at the prestigious Bahrain International Airshow, taking place 9 11 November. IAI will showcase a variety of its state of the art aviation products, including civil aviation, radars and avionics, air defense systems, coastal guard and drone guard systems. This is the first time that an Israeli company is participating in the event.

Amir Peretz, Chairman of IAI’s Board of Directors: “The Abraham Accords have opened the door for us to participate for the first time in this exhibition and to work collaboratively with our neighbours to deal with the common threats we face in the region. IAI’s capabilities, alongside the impressive relationships that we developed over the last two years with our colleagues in the Gulf States, will allow us to continue to expand the company’s contribution to both technology and defense in the region, whereby our proven capabilities can help ensure a higher degree of regional stability.”

Boaz Levy, IAI President and CEO said: "As we celebrate two years since the signing of the Abraham Accords, IAI is thrilled to participate in the Bahrain International Airshow and to broaden cooperation with business partners in the Gulf region. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet with our partners and prospective partners and showcase the cutting edge solutions IAI has developed. We believe that there are several opportunities to work together, share our knowledge, and develop new defense and civilian solutions with our partners in the Gulf region, and together, to create a brighter and safer future for our region".

The Bahrain International Airshow is one of the premier aerospace events in the Gulf fostering more opportunities for business, growth and knowledge sharing among participants. While attending the Bahrain International Airshow, IAI plans to expand its strategic collaboration in the region by signing new cooperation agreements with local companies and broadening existing partnerships that have been signed.

MEXICO GOVERNMENT CONSIDERS NEW STATE AIRLINE

The federal government is considering creating a new state airline. If approved it would be operated by the Olmeca Maya Mexica company, operators of the Mayan Train which is nearly 1,000 mile long that crosses the Yucatán Peninsula.

The new airline would help boost air connections across the country as many arears are no longer served by any airline. If agreed the new airline will begin operations as soon as 2023.

visit our website or contact us www.bmlinternational.co.uk

EU AGREES TEMPORARY WAIVER ON AIRPORT SLOTS

EU (European Union) member states have reached an agreement concerning the aircraft slot use requirements at EU airports.

The EU agreed that a general slot relief at 75% would still apply during the winter season, which lasts until 25 March 2023. Airlines prohibited from flying into European airspace will lose their slots immediately.

The new regulation will apply to the winter season up until the end of the summer season 2023, for which the standard 80% slot utilisation rule will apply.

1ST A330neo FOR VIRGIN ATLANTIC

Virgin Atlantic has taken delivery of its 1st Airbus A330neo aircraft. It will fly on the airline’s Heathrow to Boston route.

The aircraft configuration is with 262 seats; 156 in standard economy, 28 in Economy Delight, 46 in Premium economy and 32 in Upper Class including the 2 Retreat Suites. Virgin Atlantic is the first UK airline to use the A330 neo and has ordered 13 aircraft with a hope to increase that to 16 in due course

UNITED AIRLINES AND JAGUAR LAUNCH ELECTRIC AIRPORT TRANSFER SERVICE

United Airlines and Jaguar (North America) have joined together to offer Premier members a gate to gate airport transfer service using all electric cars.

The service will operate at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, where select MileagePlus Premier Members can use the chauffeured service between their connecting aircraft in the 2023 Jaguar I PACE HSE, the first all electric performance SUV from the car company.

The vehicles will also be used at United Airline hubs in Denver, Houston, Newark/New York, Washington D.C, San Francisco and Los Angeles by the end of 2022.

MONGOLIAN AIRLINES CONNECTS WITH CHINA

As China’s borders and covid restrictions ease, airlines are beginning to resume flights into the country.

The Mongolian flag carrier flew from Ulaanbaatar to Guangzhou using its Boeing 737 MAX 8. However China (and Russia) has still not certified the aircraft to begin flying again after much of the world grounded its operation in 2019.

LONDON HEATHROW BUSIEST EUROPEAN HUB OVER SUMMER, BUT OUTLOOK FOR DEMAND REMAINS UNCERTAIN

Figures have revealed that nearly 5.8 million passengers travelled through Heathrow in September 2022, 15% below 2019 levels. However London’s Heathrow recorded the busiest summer out of any European hub airport.

Passenger levels were higher from January to June 2022 than at any other European hub. As well documented, passenger demand exceed overall capacity of the aviation ecosystem, and somewhat improved after a departing passenger cap was introduced.

The future is looking uncertain with growing economic issues as well as a predicted new wave of Covid and the conflict in Ukraine.

Heathrow’s focus over the next 12 months will be to get capacity, service levels and resilience back to the high levels that they were before the pandemic.

LUFTHANSA ORDERS SMALL NARROWBODY AIRCRAFT TO UPGRADE FLEET TO NEW MODEL

Lufthansa is looking to purchase a new fleet of small narrow body aircraft as it aims to adapt its fleet structure to the new reality of post covid travel. Many of the markets that Lufthansa traditionally flew to as hubs are seeing more low cost carriers connecting to long haul routes. It therefore wishes to build on its connections to smaller airports.

Lufthansa already has 47 A320neos and 25 A321neos on order. Big aircraft in the fleet include Boeing 787 9s, 777 9s, 777 8Fs and Airbus A350 900s.

FOR SALE LOGANAIR

Small regional carriers are more than just an airline; they are a lifeline to communities that live in more remote areas and where flying is the only reasonable means of transport. However, this often means these airlines are not profitable. Such lifelines can be seen across places like Canada, Australia and even small island groups in Greece, the Maldives or the Caribbean.

A family run company for over 25 years; Loganair runs a combination of scheduled and government subsidised routes to over 30 destinations, mainly in the UK. Back at the start in 1997 the company had just 6 aircraft and carried 35,000 passengers annually. When Flybe collapsed, it was able to pick up some of its routes and destinations. This year Loganair expects to carry 1.4 million passengers.

For any prospective buyer, the airline is also in great shape financially having paid back its government covid loan and has no other bank debt.

ETIHAD BEGINS FLIGHTS TO GUANGZHOU, CHINA

The UAE flag carrier Etihad has become the only airline flying non stop between Abu Dhabi and Guangzhou, China. It is the first new Chinese route for 10 years and plans to fly twice a week

Etihad is also not the first foreign airline to operate long haul flights to all of China's top three gateways; Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shanghai since the pandemic, highlighting the airlines presence as a sign of its commitment to the market.

OPEN SKIES AGREEMENT BETWEEN EU, TUNISIA AND OMAN

The European Union (EU) aims to agree 2 more Open Skies aviation agreements with Oman and Tunisia, by the end of the year or early 2023. Tunisia relies on tourism and air connectivity is vital to its tourism sector.

Oman’s deal is helped by the success of the deal agreed previously between the EU and Qatar, allowing for an almost copy agreement to be put in place for Oman. The two deals will allow new airlines to penetrate the markets at competitive rates, and consequently, increase tourist numbers.

ITA AIRWAYS PICKS SAFRAN WHEELS AND CARBON BRAKES FOR FLEET

ITA Airways, the new national Italian carrier, has chosen Safran Landing Systems wheels and carbon brakes to equip its 6 Airbus A350 and 20 A320neo fleets.

Safran Landing Systems A350 and A320neo equipment both provide a significant weight advantage compared to other products, helping ITA Airways’ to minimise its environmental footprint by saving over 300 tons of CO2 emissions per year across its fleet.

The A350 equipment also features a unique design that provides faster cooling for shorter turnaround times and increased fleet availability.

Safran Landing Systems wheels and brakes are a market leader due to reliability and performance and they equip over 11,000 aircraft to date.

COMLUX COMPLETION APPROVED FOR ACJ TWOTWENTY

Comlux Completion has been successfully approved by Airbus ACJ to provide maintenance services on the latest member of the ACJ Family: the ACJ TwoTwenty. Comlux Completion is now the only member in the world, authorised to provide line and base maintenance on the ACJ TwoTwenty airframe, systems and engines.

Comlux is a leader in Business Aviation, Transaction and Completion services. For over 15 years, they have been engineering luxury for VIP customers looking for personal and professional management of their private aviation needs: aircraft sales and acquisitions, aircraft operations and charter management, cabin interiors, maintenance and upgrades.

Headquartered in Switzerland with a global presence around the world, Comlux delivers World class Swiss made business aviation services at the highest standards of the industry.

Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe & Oceania

THE CHEAPEST CITY BREAK IN EUROPE

HOW MUCH DO TOURISTS PAY FOR A

WEEKEND

One of the best things about the European continent is its close proximity to its fellow country neighbours. It therefore is no surprise that many EU residents take city breaks throughout the year to discover and explore different countries, cultures and destinations that are almost on their doorstep. Many do this via a weekend city break.

In a recent survey, the cheapest city destination was Athens, the capital of

trip to Athens than they would to a traditional budget destination in Eastern

Since 2021, the prices for Greece have dropped by 15% meaning that a package for 2 nights hotel accommodation, meals, sightseeing tickets and transportation would typically cost UK£207 in Athens and UK£218 in the 2nd cheapest EU destination, Lisbon.

Following on from Lisbon, 3rd place goes to Krakow in Poland with UK£219, Riga in Latvia costing UK£220 and Budapest in Hungary at UK£221. At the other end of the spectrum for a similar weekend away, it will cost UK£421 in Stockholm, in Paris UK£423, Dublin UK£436, Copenhagen UK£456, Venice UK£457 and Amsterdam UK£593.

LOUVRE HOTELS GROUP CONTINUES EXPANSION IN CHINA WITH CAMPANILE BRAND

Louvre Hotels Group, (part of Jin Jiang International), the 2nd largest hotel group in the world, has begun construction of its 500th project in China: The Campanile Shanghai Lingang with its local partner Jin Jang Hotels China Region. The new property will offer 212 rooms and open its doors in February 2023. In 2016 Louvre Hotels Group first launched in the Chinese market with its first Campanile hotel in the heart of the Bund area of Shanghai. Since then the group has opened hotels in many Chinese cities such as Shanghai and Shenzhen. In 2017 The Golden Tulip Rainbow Shanghai opened its doors, followed by the iconic Smart Hotel Campanile Jing’An Shanghai in 2018 and, more recently, the Kyriad Marvelous Hotel Shenzhen Bao’an International Convention and Exhibition Center, situated in the heart of the Exhibition Palace in the city of Shenzhen.

In total there are currently 11 Golden Tulips, 63 Campaniles and 189 Kyriads open in China. After opening in the largest Chinese cities, Louvre Hotels Group would now like to invest in strategic cities where the brands are not yet present, such as Chongqing, Chengdu and Guiyang. From now until 2025, it aims to sign up over 1000 hotels under the Kyriad, Campanile and Golden Tulip brand.

THE GLOBAL WELLNESS INSTITUTE INTRODUCES ‘IN PURSUIT OF WELLNESS: THE ART & SCIENCE OF LIVING WELL’ NEW DIGITAL SERIES BY BBC STORYWORKS

This extraordinary new series of films and stories explores wellness in a new way: its importance in every aspect of our lives, the science behind both ancient traditions and modern innovations, and the inspirational pioneers around the world expanding the horizons of wellness to be more inclusive and accessible. The series had its world premiere today at the Global Wellness Summit in Tel Aviv

The Global Wellness Institute (GWI), has announced the global launch of ‘In Pursuit of Wellness: The Art & Science of Living Well’, a new digital series produced by BBC StoryWorks, the commercial content division of BBC Studios, for the GWI.

Wellness is often narrowly perceived, marketed, and covered in the media as something costly and exclusive. This fascinating series of films and stories takes a dramatically different, more expansive approach to the multi faceted wellness movement.

Athens, Greece

Greece. Tourists from the UK would typically pay less for a

Europe.

It asks what true wellness is, exploring a range of ancient traditions and modern innovations, and the science underpinning them. The series takes us on a journey around the world to meet the pioneers pushing the boundaries of wellness in more accessible and achievable directions, and the inspirational individuals and groups that are taking care of themselves in both ancient and cutting edge ways. The films explore a traditional tea ceremony in South Korea, office buildings working hard to support our wellbeing, and how answers to some of the questions about life on Earth can be found in outer space. The series also shines a light on wellness practices at work all around us, and how the very act of being human moving, laughing, breathing, celebrating, giving, and appreciating can transform our health and wellbeing.

Over the last year, the Global Wellness Institute’s research and executive team has worked closely with BBC StoryWorks’ producers on the series, helping to ground it in research and evidence. The non profit GWI tapped its global network of wellness leaders by issuing a ‘Call for Stories’ in 2021 and worked with BBC StoryWorks to identify individuals and organisations taking a creative and inclusive approach to wellness. The series is expected to reach tens of millions of people globally and generate 80 million impressions on BBC.com during the 12 month digital campaign, vastly expanding the GWI’s community and mission of ‘empowering wellness worldwide.’

The series spans 16 films and six articles, all of which fit into four themes: Body, Mind, Culture and Design. The first article highlights how the Global Wellness Institute and its research team defined wellness and has long produced the authoritative industry research measuring the size, scope of, and emerging trends in, the global wellness economy. www.inpursuitofwellnessseries.com

HONG KONG, CHINA GIVES FREE TICKETS TO BOOST TOURISM

In a bid to boost tourist arrivals after the health crisis, Hong Kong is giving away 500,000 airline tickets as it tries to boost the tourism industry.

Its recovery will be highly dependent on when mainland Chinese tourists will return, as they contribute over half of Hong Kong's inbound arrivals and travel receipts.

From January August 2022, Hong Kong had 184,000 visitors. In 2019 it saw 56million visit the city in total. The state has already reduced almost all its entry restrictions for arrivals, but the withdrawal of Virgin Atlantic’ flight from London to Hong Kong will not help the return of tourism.

PORTUGAL LAUNCHES ‘DIGITAL NOMAD VISA’

Following the health crisis where many of us were forced to work remotely, many nations saw this as an opportunity and offered remote work visas, so people who can work remotely and in a different country for a set period of time, typically a year, if they wished to.

It offers people a great way to stay employed, but also able to see the world via a new remote office, be it in Costa Rica, Croatia or Thailand, to name a few who are offering these kinds of remote worker visas.

Portugal is the latest country to offer a ‘digital nomad’ visa that allows remote capable workers to temporarily relocate to the country for up to one year. There are other conditions that need to be met to gain the visa.

It is hoped that such visas will bring more people to the country and in doing so will boost the economy and inject more residents into towns and cities.

Hong Kong, China

Cascais, Portugal

IBIS STYLES ATHENS ROUTES HOTEL

Athens, the capital of Greece is the birthplace of civilization is packed with historical and cultural sites that have attracted tourists and business to the city for decades.

The city is constantly changing, but at its heart is the hospitality and a unique business offering plenty of meeting venues of all styles, sizes and for all kinds of events. It mixes business with pleasure perfectly and offers many after work place to eat and drink as well as plenty of options for incentive trips or the chance for an escape to the nearby islands or the surround countryside.

Accor Hotel group now offers a modern chic place to stay at the brand new 4* ibis Styles Athens Routes Hotel. Conveniently located for business, leisure or just a city break, the hotel is strategically located at the city centre and only 6min walk from the metro station and a 15min walk to the Acropolis Museum. The hotel offers the ideal setting to enjoy the city with ease.

With 89 spacious & quiet rooms with 43” smart TV and Chromecast, you can enjoy the cheerful ambiance in the restaurant & bar or discover the modern artwork that decorates the hotel. Other amenities include being a pet friendly hotel, business corner, 24h fitness room and free indoor parking.

The hotel also offers the ‘PRAXIS’ meeting rooms. Located on the 1st basement the room is flexible, quiet & fully equipped and able to accommodate up to 90 attendees. It can be split into 2 separate rooms, totally autonomous; PRAXIS I & PRAXIS II. The rooms can be designed to cater for theatre style, U shaped, Boardroom, classroom or banquet style, giving maximum flexibility for your event.

IBIS Styles Athens Routes Hotel, 109 Vouliagmenis Avenue, 11636 Athens, Greece T.: +30 211 104 2900 E.: hb448 re@accor.com W.:https://all.accor.com/hotel/B448/index.en.shtml

SPAIN

WINTER TOURISM HITS RECORD HIGHS

With energy crisis worries many people are looking to offset their winter energy bills by taking trips to warmer climates in the Mediterranean, such as Spain. It is seen as a way to economise electricity usage in their own homes. North Europeans are well known for taking a winter holiday to the sun and many more doing just that, but even more are also seeking to buy property in Spain in the likes of the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands, the region of Valencia, in mainland Spain. The Canary Islands have even launched an advertising campaigns to attract ‘permanent visitors’ from north Europe. It remains to be seen if winter booking rise sharply to counter the bill energy bills, but Spain is taking advantage in the hope of success!

A recent survey showed that 75% of Germans want to take a trip even in winter, with the Canary Islands as their top destination. In anticipation of a winter travel boom, Ryanair is planning 52 new routes to Spain.

The traditional English holiday resort of Benidorm has its own promotion to keep tourists over 50 for longer. Many key destinations are also aiming to remain open throughout the winter in order to cater for more winter sun tourist arrivals.

TRAIN

If you were going to set a world record, then you would do it amid spectacular scenery! This is precisely what the Rhaetian Railway company has done. The new record for completing a journey with the world's longest passenger train saw the 1.9km (1.2 mile) train, comprising of 100 coaches, journey through a spectacular 25km (15.5 mile) route through the Alps, along the Albula/Bernina train track from Preda to Berguen.

The route is a recognised UNESCO World Heritage site and winds through 22 tunnels and across 48 bridges, including the curved Landwasser Viaduct. The record not only marks 175 years of the Swiss railways but also highlights Switzerland's engineering achievements.

INDONESIA

FOREIGN TOURISM ARRIVALS REBOUND IN SEPTEMBER

Foreign tourist arrivals to Indonesia in September reached their highest level since the start of the pandemic. September saw 538,300 arrivals, up from only 5,000 in September 2021.

The majority of arrivals headed to Bali. The figures saw growth up from arrivals in August 2022 which reached 510,200.

For January September 2022, Indonesia saw 2.27 million visitors compared with 86,245 in the same period in 2021, when travel restrictions due to COVID 19 were still in place.

Arrivals are still far below the levels in the same periods of 2018 and 2019, when Indonesia welcomed 10 million foreign visitors.

With

THAILAND RECEIVES OVER 7 MILLION FOREIGN TOURIST ARRIVALS

Over the first 10 months of 2022, Thailand welcomed 7.35 million foreign tourist arrivals. The top 5 source markets were Malaysia with 1.25 million arrivals, India with 661,751, Laos with 538,789, Cambodia with 373,811, and Singapore with 365,593.

The revival of the tourism sector is a key driver of growth in Southeast Asia's 2nd largest economy. It is predicted for all of 2022 that 10.3 million foreign tourist will arrive and 21.5 million in 2023. Compare these figures with only 428,000 foreign visitors in 2021 and nearly 40 million in 2019.

MOZAMBIQUE FULL OF INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Mozambique’s National Institute of Tourism (INATUR) has highlighted the huge potential for tourism investment worth approx. UK£300 million, through planned developments in several beach and bush destinations across the country.

“Mozambique abounds with investment opportunities. Government is taking a very proactive stance through various initiatives, including the establishment of concessions. This cuts across all grades of accommodation, from five star all the way down to budget options, and there is a lot of appeal for domestic, regional and international tourist markets,” said Sisa Ntshona, Executive Director of Dream Hotels & Resorts and former South African Tourism CEO, who was in the country recently to assess investment opportunities.

While the country is known for its idyllic beaches, there is about Mozambique to be discovered like its culture, flavours, people and its food. It is no longer just a safari destination.

The range of planned projects include:

The Crusse and Jamali Islands Integrated Tourism Resort in Mozambique’s northerly Nampula Province; a 1,750 hectare special economic zone, the complex will offer a variety of 500 rooms available from 5* hotels to chalets and residential units.

Inhambane Province: UK£8.7 million invest ment in a 150 room resort planned for Vilanculos

Zambezia Province: UK£8.7 million investment in an eco resort in Gilé National Park.

UK£870.000 investment in an eco resort at the Munhamade hot springs.

Sofala Province: UK£3.5 million investment in construction of an 18 bed fixed tent campsite in Gorongosa National Park.

Jamali Islands, Mozambique

Manica Province: UK£1.30 million investment in construction of a 12 bed fixed tent site in the Chimanimani Nature Reserve. Cabo Delgado Province: UK6.98 million investments in an 80 100 room hotel planned in Pemba.

close proximity to South Africa further enhancing Mozambique’s investment appeal it makes it easy to package offerings between the two nations.

PREFERRED HOTELS & RESORTS WELCOMES 14 NEW MEMBER PROPERTIES

Global independent hotel brand continues to build its portfolio with exciting new additions to its portfolio in Q3 2022.

Preferred Hotels and Resorts, the world’s largest independent hotel brand representing more than 650 hotels, resorts, and residences across 80 countries, welcomed 14 new member properties to its global portfolio recently. Ranging from a chic new city hotel Paris’ historic Latin Quarter to a luxury beachfront resort on the Red Sea, these distinct and independent luxury hotels present experiences rooted in the local culture and surrounding areas for travellers to explore with partners, friends, and extended family. Highlights include:

• Salamander Washington DC (Washington, District of Columbia, United States)

• Pinares Panorama Suites Spa and Convention Center (Cordoba, Argentina)

• Hôtel Dame des Arts (Paris, France)

• Son Net (Mallorca, Spain)

• Serry Beach Resort (Hurghada, Egypt)

• The Claridges, New Delhi (New Delhi, India)

Other member properties to join Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ global portfolio from July 1 through September 30, 2022, include:

• Passalacqua (Lake Como, Italy)

• El Fuerte Marbella (Marbella, Spain)

• The Claridges Nabha Residence, Mussoorie (Mussoorie, India)

• Dusit Thani Laguna Singapore (Singapore)

• The Hotel HIGASHIYAMA by Kyoto Tokyu Hotel (Kyoto, Japan)

• Fulton Lane Inn (Charleston, South Carolina, United States)

• Pendry Washington D.C. The Wharf (Washington, District of Columbia, United States)

• The Benson Hotel & Faculty Club (Aurora, Colorado, United States)

Each of these new member hotels participate in I Prefer Hotel Rewards, the brand’s points based loyalty programme. For stays at any of the spotlighted new member hotels, travellers are invited to book via the Preferred brand website.

CHINA'S 1ST VERTICAL

TAKE-OFF

ELECTRIC CAR TAKES OFF IN DUBAI

Chinese electronic vehicle maker Xpeng has demonstrated its flying car in the UAE. The X2, a two seat electric vertical take off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft is the first step towards launching in the international market.

Dubai was chosen for the demonstration as it is the most innovative city in the world.

A model of the X2 was displayed at the GITEX exhibition, one of the world's 3 largest technology exhibitions.

Trade between the UAE and China is strong with Chinese companies helping to build various infrastructure projects in the Emirates; like the EXPO 2020 infrastructure to Etihad Rail. China is one of the UAE's top trading partners with bilateral investment and trade rapidly increasing.

CRUISE INDUSTRY PICKING UP WELL IN LATIN AMERICA

The cruise tourism sector in Latin America is rapidly recovering with some places already seeing pre covid demand. Mexico, Chile and Colombia are currently very popular for cruises.

Due to such strong cruise demand from Colombia the country was included in the world presentation Royal Caribbean tour of the ‘Icon of the Seas, currently under construction and due to begin operations in January 2024.

With greatly improved air connectivity between Colombia and the US, the Latin America nation has been the one that has most grown in the region, particularly from cities in the state of Florida

The ‘Icon of the Seas’, will have the largest ‘aquatic park in the high seas’ and will be the first of a new class of ships which will completely change the concept of holidays. The ship will be full of innovations, with 8 different environments, to enjoy food, relax, and discover. It will offer 2,804 cabins with 28 different designs, a maximum capacity of 7,600 passengers and a crew of 2,500, plus 7 pools as well as an option of up to 40 restaurants, bars and night clubs.

It will also be the most sustainable of the Royal Caribbean fleet, and the first of cruises powered by Natural Liquid Gas, NLG, the cleanest of all marine fuels.

GREECE TOURISM

INCREASE IN SPEND PER TRIP INCREASED BY 10.6%

COMPARED TO 2019

From January August, travel receipts reached UK£11.155 billion, a 3.6% decrease compared to the same period of 2019 (pre covid) and inbound travel decreased by 12.4%. However the average spend per trip increased by 10.6%. Compared to the same period of 2021, inbound travel increased by 121.8% and equated to 19,126 million travellers, compared to 8.624 million travellers.

Visitors from Germany recorded an increase of 88.6% and amounted to 2,892 million, while French tourists increased by 69.7% equally 1,314 million.

Inbound travel traffic for just August 2022 saw 5,865 million travellers, up 44% compared to August 2021.

Arrivals through airports increased by 32.2% compared to August 2021 and via road borders saw a 95.6% rise. In August, German tourists increased by 12.9% to 827,100, while French tourists increased by 7.1% to 413,400.

Traffic from the UK increased by 114.4% to 976,000 travellers and from the US by 77.2% to 133,300 tourists.

Tourist traffic from Russia decreased by 70.6% and amounted to 6,900 travellers.

Kalamata, Greece

A VIEW From The Top Of The World

By Caroline Laspas

We have all stayed in tall hotels, many with roof terraces offering view across the city skyline and the mountains beyond. If you have never taken a trip to the highest floor of the hotel, do it next time, as most will have one or two window views or a roof terrace to enjoy the skyline turn from day to night or even offer a perfect sunset location if facing the right direction! Away from the cities, many of us have enjoyed views of mountains and lakes, but there are new viewing platforms springing up all over the place to offer that added viewing experience!

Here we look at some other wonderful opportunities to view the world from up high and see cities and beyond from a stunning perspective and you don’t need to be in the highest buildings in the world to get a great view!

SHANGHAI TOWER CHINA

Shanghai Tower is one of the highest observation decks in the world and is currently the tallest building in China and has the world’s fastest elevators travelling up to 74km/ph. On the 119th floor (there are 128 stories in total) you gain a view of the nearby Shanghai World Financial Centre and the rest of the sprawling city. It is expected that the Shanghai Tower will created more, even higher observation decks in the coming years.

ABRAJ AL-BAIT TOWERS - SAUDI ARABIA

Located in Mecca, and only accessible if you are of the Muslim faith, the towers of this building feature the world’s largest clock faces, visible from 25kms away!

There is an observation deck at the clock face and another one just beneath the central tower’s summit. A private and public viewing deck gives exclusive views of the holy city.

FIVE FINGERS OBERTRAUN, AUSTRIA

This 5 fingered viewing platform, 500m above the ground, has telescopes and glass floors to add to the experience. There is no elevator to take you here, high up in the Austrian mountains. It is located just a 15 minute walk from the Dachstein Krippenstein cable car summit station and offers stunning views of Lake Hallstatt and the mountains as far as the eye can see.

Not surprisingly as the world’s tallest building with 163 floors, it also has a high observation deck, but is just 5.5m shorter than the Shanghai Tower, placing it in 2nd place. There are several observation decks at various heights, which needless to say offer incredible views of an endless desert city scattered with skyscrapers.

EIFFEL TOWER FRANCE

This is the one everyone wants to experience. It is definitely not the highest, but the views from all 4 sides are spectacular. First opened in 1889, it is today an iconic symbol of Paris and visited by millions of tourists from all over the globe.

BURJ KHALIFA UAE

SHILINGXIA RESORT CHINA

Located on the main peak of Shilin Gorge, near Beijing, this incredible circular glass viewing platform seems to hang in mid air.

GRAND CANYON SKYWALK USA

Just standing on the edge of the Grand Canyon is spectacular, but the glass u shaped Grand Canyon Skywalk sits 4,000ft above the Canyon floor, giving a different perspective!

CN TOWER CANADA

At the time it was built in 1976, this tower was the world’s tallest manmade structure. It offers 3 viewing decks; the LookOut deck at 1,136ft, the hands free outdoor EdgeWalk deck at 1,168ft, and the SkyPod deck at 1,465ft from which you can see over 160kms away on a clear day. From the SkyPod, it is possible to see the famous Niagara Falls on the horizon.

PETRONAS TOWERS - MALAYSIA

These are the tallest twin towers in the world and connected by a double decker bridge on the 42nd floor. The observation deck is located on the 86th floor which offers unparalleled views of the traditional and modern city below as well as the beautiful mountains beyond.

THE SHARD UK

Despite London becoming full of new modern skyscrapers, the Shard is almost twice as high as any other building in the city. One of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, its observation deck offers the best panoramic views of the city day and night. The open air Sky Deck is higher still and allows you to feel the wind in your hair and see London from new heights!