Associations

Reopening updates

Aussie government gives new support package that doubles previous commitment to travel industry

Megha Paul Mar 11, 2021

Tourism minister Dan Tehan has just confirmed that another AUD 128 million (USD 128 million) will be available to assist travel industry businesses dealing with the ongoing closure of…

Air

It’s time to plan for restart as air travellers gain confidence: IATA

Megha Paul Mar 11, 2021

IATA has announced results from its latest poll of recent travellers, showing growing confidence in a return to air travel, frustration with current travel restrictions and acceptance of…

Tourism

UNWTO unveils guide to help women in tourism

Megha Paul Mar 9, 2021

UNWTO is marking International Women’s Day 2021 with the release of its Inclusive Recovery Guide for women in tourism, compiled in collaboration with UN Women

Reopening updates

UNWTO launches travel restrictions report

Megha Paul Mar 8, 2021

UNWTO Travel Restrictions Report provides a comprehensive overview of the regulations in place in 217 destinations worldwide

Global

Morocco sets stage for first UNWTO general assembly after pandemic

Megha Paul Mar 4, 2021

The UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and Moroccan officials recently met to advance the organization of the 24th UNWTO General Assembly in October 2021, the first global high-level UN…

Global

IATA travel pass in India soon?

Megha Paul Mar 3, 2021

Global airlines body IATA plans to launch its travel pass by the end of March and is also in talks with Indian authorities and carriers for using the pass in India

Reopening updates

How Dubai is keeping tourists safe during the COVID-19 pandemic

Megha Paul Feb 24, 2021

Dubai has received global recognition from UNWTO for protecting travellers during the COVID-19 pandemic

Reopening updates

Delaying return of international travel until May could be fatal blow for UK’s ailing travel sector

Megha Paul Feb 23, 2021

Delaying the return of international travel until at least mid-May could mean the tourism sector simply will not survive, says WTTC

Vaccination Updates

How the Maldives has now witnessed over 100,000 tourist arrivals for 2021

Megha Paul Feb 19, 2021

The Maldives has recorded over 100,000 tourist arrivals to the Indian Ocean destination in 2021, during the same month it has launched the rollout of COVID-19 vaccinations in the country

Vaccination Updates

WTTC to hold Global Summit in April 2021

Megha Paul Feb 16, 2021

The WTTC Global Summit is being organised in partnership with the government of Quintana Roo in Mexico and will be held in Cancun, Mexico on 25-27 April

Tourism

Kerala’s travel mart to host five-day virtual event in March

Megha Paul Feb 15, 2021

Kerala Travel Mart (KTM), the popular B2B tourism meet in the country, has invited domestic and foreign buyers to interact with 700 sellers across the world during its five-day virtual event…

Tourism

Travelling is not a crime: ETC slams new UK travel measures

Megha Paul Feb 11, 2021

The European Travel Commission (ETC) strongly condemns the new tough enforcement measures for travellers announced by the UK government.

Tourism

Morocco visit initiates preparations for UNWTO General Assembly

Megha Paul Feb 9, 2021

UNWTO and Morocco met to advance the organisation of the 24th UNWTO General Assembly in October 2021, the first global high-level UN event to be held since the beginning of the pandemic

Tourism

Abandon concept of ‘high-risk countries’ and focus on ‘high-risk travellers’: WTTC

Megha Paul Feb 8, 2021

Governments around the world should redefine their whole approach to risk assessment, to revive international business and leisure travel

Air

2020 turns out to be worst year in aviation history with sharpest decline in demand

Megha Paul Feb 5, 2021

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in 2020 demand (revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) fell by 65.9% compared to 2019, which is by far the sharpest traffic…

Reopening updates

Kerala must ramp up commitment to responsible tourism

Megha Paul Feb 5, 2021

Kerala should ramp up its commitment to responsible tourism (RT) and move towards declaring the whole state as an RT destination in the light of changing consumer preferences towards zero…

MICE

Global business travel to grow 21% in 2021

Megha Paul Feb 4, 2021

Business travel spending is forecast to grow 21% this year worldwide, helped by the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines, but will not recover to pre-pandemic levels until the middle of the decade

Tourism

2020 worst year for tourism, says UNWTO

Megha Paul Jan 29, 2021

Global tourism suffered its worst year on record in 2020, with international arrivals dropping by 74 per cent when compared to 2019 according to the latest data from the UNWTO

Tourism

UAE announces Tourism Council formation

Megha Paul Jan 25, 2021

UAE Cabinet, chaired by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice president, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, has approved the formation of the Emirates Tourism Council

MICE

ITB China Special Edition 2021 announces new business procurement convention in May

Megha Paul Jan 25, 2021

China BT MICE, announced that the Business Travel MICE Procurement Convention (BTMPC) will take place at this year’s ITB China Special Edition

Vaccination Updates

IATA calls for EU-wide Covid-19 vaccination certificate

Megha Paul Jan 21, 2021

IATA has urged all branches of the European Union to support an initiative from Greek prime minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, to agree a common digital European Covid-19 vaccination certificate

Associations

Secretary-general Pololikashvili nominated to lead UNWTO for four more years

Megha Paul Jan 21, 2021

The Executive Council of the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has expressed its continued support for secretary-general Zurab Pololikashvili

Tourism

Over 100 million global tourism jobs could be recovered in 2021: WTTC

Megha Paul Jan 20, 2021

WTTC says more than 100 million jobs could return to the global travel and tourism sector during 2021 as the world recovers from the crippling COVID-19 pandemic

Tourism

UNWTO to host key week for global tourism

Megha Paul Jan 18, 2021

Today in Madrid, the UNWTO Global Tourism Crisis Committee will hold its first meeting of the year to advance concrete plans to ensure the restart of tourism will take place

Global

Unvaccinated travellers should not be discriminated against, says WTTC

Megha Paul Jan 13, 2021

Travellers who have not been vaccinated against Covid-19 should not be discriminated against, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has said

Reopening updates

Keep calm and log on! PATA to host Virtual PATA Annual Summit 2021

Megha Paul Jan 13, 2021

PATA's three-day virtual event, in collaboration with Ras Al Khaimah, will bring together international thought leaders, industry shapers and senior decision-makers in the travel industry

Tourism

New travel measures to curb COVID-19 must replace quarantines: WTTC

Megha Paul Jan 12, 2021

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has said that it supports measures designed to curb COVID-19 and protect public health but calls for the complete removal of unnecessary…

Tourism

ABTA confirms agents are eligible for new government grants

Megha Paul Jan 8, 2021

The government has published amended regulations that explicitly reference retail travel agents as businesses that are required to legally close in tier four areas within England

Tourism

India Tourism Mart to be held virtually on 18-20 February

Megha Paul Jan 6, 2021

In a first, the India Tourism Mart 2021 will be held on a virtual platform with buyer-seller meetings slated from 18-20 February

Global

2020 worst year for aviation, says IATA

Megha Paul Jan 5, 2021

Almost half a trillion drop in revenue for the air transport industry and at least 43 commercial airlines gone bankrupt globally by October, 2020 has been the worst year in the history of…

Bleak Affair: Tourism back to 1990 levels as arrivals fall by more than 70%

Megha Paul Dec 18, 2020

International arrivals fell by 72% over the first ten months of 2020, with restrictions on travel, low consumer confidence and a global struggle to contain the COVID-19 virus, all…

ITB China to host two events in Beijing and Shanghai

Megha Paul Dec 16, 2020

With traveller confidence recovering swiftly in China, the ITB China organisers have announced plans to launch an ITB China Special Edition in 2021

Hospitality cannot wait for Covid-19 vaccine rollout, says WTTC

Megha Paul Dec 16, 2020

World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and major international industry bodies have joined forces to call for the immediate restoration of international travel using proven processes and…

UNWTO launches global ‘restart tourism’ campaign

Megha Paul Dec 15, 2020

Centred around a 45-second film, the 'restart tourism' campaign affirms UNWTO as the unifying voice behind the global restart of tourism

Associations

SKÅL Bangkok’s Wood warns of a deepening Thailand tourism crisis

Andrew Wood Dec 7, 2020

Andrew J Wood BANGKOK: It is becoming increasingly evident that the damage being inflicted to Thailand’s massive travel and tourism industry is proving to be critical with deep long…

72-hour quarantine-free journeys will revive international business travel

Megha Paul Dec 3, 2020

International business travel could restart if agreement is secured to safeguard journeys of up to 72-hours free from quarantines, says the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC)

70% of destinations have lifted travel restrictions but global gap emerging

Megha Paul Dec 3, 2020

According to the eighth edition of the UNWTO Travel Restrictions Report, 70% of all global destinations have eased restrictions on travel introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic

Associations

United we stand! GBTA completes acquisition of ACTE

Megha Paul Nov 25, 2020

GBTA, the world's largest business travel association, has completed its acquisition of key assets of the Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE), to unify the industry and help…

IATA chief Alexandre de Juniac to step down

Megha Paul Nov 24, 2020

IATA announced that Alexandre de Juniac, director general and CEO will step down from his role at the association effective 31 March 2021 and will be replaced by Willie Walsh, former CEO of…

UNWTO visits Brazil to support sustainable recovery

Megha Paul Nov 20, 2020

UNWTO has reaffirmed commitment to working closely with the government of Brazil to help the country’s tourism sector recover and become a key driver of sustainable development

WTTC to hold Global Summit in March in Cancun to help restore travel around the world

Megha Paul Nov 18, 2020

The first major conference in the ‘new normal’ of the COVID-19 world will take place in Cancun, Mexico on 23-25 March 2021, hosted by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

UK

ABTA: The UK’s economic recovery will be dependent on a strong travel and tourism industry

Alastair Newport Nov 13, 2020

ABTA has announced that it believes the travel industry has had no opportunity to recover since the start of the pandemic, as new figures reveal that despite the opening of travel corridors…

Phuket’s tourism high-season hopes shattered in policy flip-flop

Megha Paul Nov 13, 2020

Thailand’s leading resort island Phuket has come face-to-face with the reality that its tourism high-season will not see a marked reopening to overseas travellers.

Singapore-Hong Kong air travel bubble now a reality from 22 November with 200 travellers each way per day

Megha Paul Nov 11, 2020

The air travel bubble will start on 22 November, with one flight a day into each city with 200 passengers each way

Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions unveils free two-month membership offer

Megha Paul Nov 9, 2020

Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions is offering opportunity to experience a range of business benefits with launch of two-month offer

Travel in India to boom again with over 50% making plans already, says FICCI report

Megha Paul Nov 9, 2020

A recent survey conducted by FICCI and Thrillophilia across India, revealed that while more than 50% plan on travelling in the next two months alone, 33% are making plans to travel twice of…

UNWTO brings tourism sector together to plan for future

Megha Paul Nov 9, 2020

UNWTO) has once again brought leaders from across the sector together for high-level talks aimed at strengthening cooperation between the public and private sectors

Global tourism will take 3-5 years to recover: Euromonitor

Megha Paul Nov 6, 2020

Euromonitor International report, titled Accelerating Travel Innovations after Coronavirus, which will be launched at WTM Virtual reveals global tourism will take at least three to five…

Iceland, Argentina, Kazakhstan and Colombia adopt WTTC safety stamp

Megha Paul Nov 6, 2020

Iceland, Argentina, Kazakhstan, Colombia and Turks and Caicos are the latest major destinations to adopt the WTTC global safety and hygiene stamp, which was launched earlier this year

UNWTO supports digital innovation for Africa’s tourism attractions

Megha Paul Nov 4, 2020

Emphasis on digital innovation to position Africa's tourism attractions will be a key component of The Ubuntu: Africa Invites You To Live campaign, developed by ATREVIA that has won UNWTO…

Worry no more: Flying safer than grocery shopping

Megha Paul Nov 2, 2020

A new report by Harvard TH Chan School of Public revealed that health risk of Covid-19 transmission onboard an aircraft is lower than that of other routine activities, such as grocery…

SKÅL Bangkok President’s Message to Members Offers Help for Recovery

Andrew Wood Oct 30, 2020

 Since 1932 when the very first Skål Club was formed in Paris, Skål International has spread to 102 countries in 88 years. Amicale and friendship are at the very core of our association.…

International tourism to bounce back by 2022: UNWTO

Megha Paul Oct 28, 2020

Restrictions on travel introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic continue to hit global tourism hard, with the latest data from the UNWTO showing a 70% fall in international arrivals…

Thailand unveils ‘expat travel bonus’ campaign

Megha Paul Oct 27, 2020

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) joins hands with the Thai Hotels Association (THA) to offer the Expat Travel Bonus, an amazing discount privilege exclusively for expat residents and…

‘Bali, A New Kind Of Adventure’ video series unveiled

Megha Paul Oct 27, 2020

Bali Hotels Association (BHA) has unveiled ‘Bali, A New Kind Of Adventure’, a series of six, one-minute videos

Tourism in Spain staring at USD 120 billion loss due to COVID-19

Megha Paul Oct 23, 2020

Devastated by the pandemic, Spain’s all-important tourism sector is expected to incur losses of more than EUR 100 billion (USD 120 billion) this year

Canary Islands joins UN observatory network for tourism recovery

Megha Paul Oct 22, 2020

Canary Islands has been confirmed as the latest member of the growing International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO), overseeing the responsible development of tourism…

54% Europeans plan to travel within EU in next six months

Megha Paul Oct 22, 2020

European Travel Commission (ETC) research has revealed that 54% respondents intend to take a trip in the next six months while 26% state that they plan to travel by November 2020 in Europe

WTTC stresses on implementation of testing on departure at airports across Europe

Megha Paul Oct 21, 2020

World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has highlighted the need for rapid and cost-effective testing on departure regime at airports

Coordination is vital for recovery, says UNWTO

Megha Paul Oct 21, 2020

Consistent and harmonised travel protocols, enhanced safety measures and the protection of jobs and livelihoods are the main ingredients needed for the restart of tourism

New Zealand unveils new travel reimbursement scheme to support agents affected by COVID-19

Megha Paul Oct 21, 2020

New Zealand has announced that it will pay travel agencies 7.5% of all refunds and 5% of credits successfully secured on behalf of consumers to help the travel and tourism sector

Skal Krabi Develops Edible Rooftops

Andrew Wood Oct 19, 2020

Skal Krabi inaugurated a roof top community farming concept to help feed the local communities during these unprecedented challenging times.

UNWTO and Expedia join hands to share data and insights for tourism recovery

Megha Paul Oct 16, 2020

UNWTO will work alongside the Expedia Group to strengthen ties between the public and private sectors and drive tourism’s recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic

PATA unveils new chair and executive board to lead industry into post-Covid future and beyond

Megha Paul Oct 16, 2020

Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has announced the ratification of the new PATA executive board to lead the tourism industry into the future and beyond

Global

European Commission convenes meeting over sustainable recovery of tourism

Megha Paul Oct 14, 2020

The European Commission convened a meeting aimed at exploring new ways to get out of the coronavirus crisis and gaining a sustainable recovery of the tourism sector

WTTC acknowledges UK’s commitment to work with private sector to save tourism

Megha Paul Oct 13, 2020

WTTC acknowledged the leadership of the UK, for its support to the private sector at the historic meeting of G20 countries and CEOs of the world’s leading companies

Associations

Europeans still optimistic about travel but plans hampered by health concerns

Megha Paul Oct 12, 2020

A new study released by ETC, European travellers are eager to resume travel, but anxiety over a rising number of coronavirus cases and stringent travel restrictions may cause many to put…

How G20 tourism leaders have committed to intensify efforts towards sustainable recovery

Megha Paul Oct 8, 2020

Tourism ministers of the G20 nations have committed to stepping up their efforts to place sustainability and inclusion at the heart of tourism recovery and future growth

Towards inclusive travel: Indonesia first signatory of UNWTO Tourism Ethics Convention

Megha Paul Oct 5, 2020

Indonesia has become the first signatory of the Framework Convention on Tourism Ethics, the landmark instrument created to ensure global tourism is fair, inclusive, more transparent, and…

UNWTO to harness the power of AI to link tourism workers with jobs

Megha Paul Oct 2, 2020

UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) will work with California-based Eightfold.ai to help connect tourism jobseekers with employers and so drive the global recovery of the sector

TAAI fears total collapse of airlines already staring at existential crisis

Megha Paul Oct 2, 2020

Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) says this verdict maintains status quo to the previous suggestion by aviation regulator

SKÅL Koh Samui launches domestic tourism recovery campaign

Andrew Wood Oct 1, 2020

Skål Koh Samui initiative aims to lure tourists back to the island with its #RediscoverSamui campaign, featuring a brand new video, media and social media programme

Associations

Maharashtra CM gives nod to re-open restaurants in October

Megha Paul Sep 29, 2020

In a meeting with HRAWI, the Maharashtra CM has in principle agreed to allow restaurants to re-open in the first week of the coming month

Destinations need to adopt new protocols for health and hygiene measures: WTTC

Megha Paul Sep 28, 2020

WTTC has unveiled a new report that explores the implications of the trends for each of four key travel and tourism stakeholders: travellers, businesses, workforce and communities

ICPB to host 13th CIC as hybrid event in October

Megha Paul Sep 28, 2020

ICPB focused on promoting India as an attractive MICE destination will organise flagship event, the 13th Conventions India Conclave (CIC) – as a hybrid event with the theme – ‘Physical &…

IATA bats for countering terrorist travel

Megha Paul Sep 25, 2020

IATA and the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism to strengthen cooperation with the United Nations Countering Terrorist Travel  Programme

How Virtual PATA Travel Mart 2020 welcomed over 1,000 delegates

Megha Paul Sep 25, 2020

Virtual PATA Travel Mart 2020 attracted over 1,000 delegates from 60 global destinations

UNWTO and Google host first tourism acceleration programme in Sub-Saharan Africa

Megha Paul Sep 24, 2020

United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) and Google have partnered for an online Acceleration Programme for UNWTO Member States’ tourism ministers, top travel associations and…

Eturbo News

SKAL online event gets biggest attendance in AGM history

Andrew J. Wood - eTN Thailand Sep 22, 2020

The Skål Asia AGM which due to the Covid-19 pandemic was without a home, instead the 49th SAA AGM was conducted online and turned out to be the highest attended AGM in recent history.

New milestone: WTTC celebrates as Philippines becomes 100th destination to get ‘Safe Travels’ stamp

Megha Paul Sep 21, 2020

WTTC has announced that in just three short months, 100 destinations are now using its ‘Safe Travels’ stamp, with the Philippines becoming the official 100th destination

Associations

Health and safety top concerns for APAC travellers: PATA

Megha Paul Sep 21, 2020

PATA's new report has revealed Health and safety are top-of-mind for consumers when selecting a destination

Maldives gets Safe Travels Stamp by WTTC

Megha Paul Sep 18, 2020

World Travel and Tourism Council has recognised the efforts of Maldives in implementing enhanced health and safety measures

PCMA launches ‘Convening Asia Pacific’ forum to support business events industry recovery

Megha Paul Sep 17, 2020

PCMA will host a one-day hybrid event that will feature workshops to build the practical skills and knowledge event professionals and businesses need to be successful in the recovery phase…

International tourist numbers down 65% in first half of 2020: UNWTO

Megha Paul Sep 16, 2020

The latest data from the UNWTO shows an unprecedented decline in international travellers and the severe impact that COVID-19 has had on the tourism sector

Silver lining: Indian aviation industry to recover faster due to size of market

Megha Paul Sep 15, 2020

The civil aviation sector, one of the worst-affected industries, is gradually limping back to normalcy after the Centre allowed domestic flights to resume in last week of May

MICE

The peak of incentive travel: What you need to win JAPAN Best Incentive Travel Awards 2020

Alastair Newport Sep 11, 2020

Keen to learn about the JAPAN Best Incentive Travel Awards, especially under a global pandemic, I spoke to Camila Cortea of the Japan Convention Bureau MICE department about the purpose of…

Associations

More than 50% of global destinations are easing travel restrictions but caution remains: UNWTO

Megha Paul Sep 11, 2020

UNWTO has confirmed that a majority of destinations around the world (53%) have now started easing travel restrictions introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic

Multi-year recovery along with new opportunities for travel and hospitality sector: HVS

Megha Paul Sep 10, 2020

51% of over 1,800 global delegates expect RevPAR to return to pre-Covid levels during 2023, with a further 23% anticipating a return in 2024

World Tourism Day 2020: Global community unites to celebrate travel and rural development

Megha Paul Sep 9, 2020

The 2020 edition of World Tourism Day will celebrate the unique role that tourism plays in providing opportunities outside of big cities and preserving cultural and natural heritage all…

Singapore to start approving pilot MICE events with 250 people from 1 October

Megha Paul Sep 9, 2020

STB will start accepting applications for organisers to pilot MICE events of up to 250 attendees in line with the safe and gradual resumption of economic activities in Singapore

WTTC unveils Safe Travels protocols for adventure travel to rebuild confidence

Megha Paul Sep 4, 2020

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has unveiled the latest set of measures designed to rebuild global consumer confidence, reduce risk and encourage the return of safe travel.

Air

Incheon airport first in Asia-Pacific to receive health accreditation

Megha Paul Aug 31, 2020

Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific today announced that Incheon International Airport in Seoul, South Korea is the first airport in the Asia-Pacific region to be accredited…

TAAI Appeals to Ministry of Civil Aviation to Reach Beyond Air Bubbles

Anil Mathur Aug 28, 2020

The Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) has forwarded an appeal today to Shri Hardeep Sing Puri, Minister of Civil Aviation (MoCA), requesting to permit airlines to commence scheduled…

UNWTO observes safe restart of tourism in Egypt

Megha Paul Aug 27, 2020

A high-level delegation from UNWTO has concluded an official visit to Egypt to offer firm support for the government’s work to restart tourism and direct its benefits towards supporting…

UK set to lose USD 29 billion from missing tourists due to pandemic: WTTC

Megha Paul Aug 26, 2020

A staggering USD 28.91 billion looks set to be lost from the UK economy due to the collapse of international travel during 2020, according to WTTC

Tourism

Imperative to rebuild tourism in safe, equitable and climate-friendly manner: UN secretary-general

Megha Paul Aug 26, 2020

As part of the wider UN response to COVID-19, the UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres released a thematic brief on the impact the pandemic has had on tourism

UK travel industry has reached a ‘critical point’

Alastair Newport Aug 24, 2020

The UK government’s Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme has been a significant help for businesses in the travel industry, with nine in ten businesses taking part in the scheme to support…

Portugal now added in UK’s ‘safe travel list’

Megha Paul Aug 21, 2020

The Department for Transport in the UK has confirmed that UK visitors to Portugal will no longer have to quarantine on return from the country

Check this out! WTTC unveils interactive COVID-19 travel demand recovery dashboard

Megha Paul Aug 21, 2020

A new in-depth data dashboard works across flights and hotels, as well as revealing the shifting intentions of travellers through online travel searches

Summer opening will not save hospitality sector on its own: STAA

Megha Paul Aug 21, 2020

UK Short Term Accommodation Association says the government needs to support the industry if it is to survive till the holiday season next year

WTTC appoints ATTOI as India’s agency to promote safe travel in post-COVID times

Megha Paul Aug 20, 2020

ATTOI will ensure that the travel and tourism activities in India follow the norms under a ‘Safe Travels Stamp’ curated by WTTC

PATA Gold Award winners to be announced live during Virtual PTM 2020

Megha Paul Aug 20, 2020

PATA will be announcing the PATA Gold Awards 2020 live during Virtual PTM 2020

Can I go on holiday in Croatia? Latest travel advice as it continues to be safe destination

Megha Paul Aug 20, 2020

The government of Croatia has announced a new set of COVID-19 measures for bars and nightclubs as the epidemiological situation in Croatia is stable and favourable

No time for timid leadership! The safe restart of tourism is possible

Megha Paul Aug 19, 2020

The re-opening of borders to tourism is a welcome relief to millions who depend on the travel sector. But this alone is not enough, says UNWTO

Associations

Agoda ties up with WWF to plant trees in Chiang Mai

Megha Paul Aug 19, 2020

Agoda worked alongside the local Chiang Mai community to kickstart the planting of 6,000 trees as part of its CSR sustainability initiative

Tourism

Asia Pacific preps to welcome back tourists

Kristin Mariano Aug 18, 2020

The Asia Pacific region has begun to slowly ease its COVID-19 lockdown measures along with its border restrictions and is moving toward welcoming tourists back.

Global air bookings to Europe fall 72% in 2020

Megha Paul Aug 17, 2020

European Travel Commission is calling on EU governments to better coordinate their COVID-19 recovery efforts by adopting a harmonised approach to lifting or reinstalling restrictions and…

Hospitality

Marina Bay Sands unveils industry’s first hybrid event broadcast studio

Megha Paul Aug 17, 2020

Marina Bay Sands has launched a state-of-the-art hybrid event broadcast studio at Sands Expo and Convention Centre in a first for the industry, as the award-winning venue paves the way to…

Tourism

WTTC calls for leadership from PM Boris Johnson and strong international coordination to save travel sector

Megha Paul Aug 13, 2020

World Travel & Tourism Council has urgently called on the UK government for strong leadership and unprecedented international collaboration, to save the struggling travel and tourism…

MICE

PEACH receives government applause for COVID-19 preventative measures

Megha Paul Aug 13, 2020

Pattaya's eminent exhibition centre recognised by Thai government for new health measures in safeguarding upcoming business events

Air

Lending a helping hand! Singapore Airlines supports World Food Programme for global COVID-19 response

Megha Paul Aug 12, 2020

Singapore Airlines and the Temasek Foundation are partnering with the World Food Programme to support the global COVID-19 response

Sri Lanka and Grenada new entrants in WTTC Safe Travels stamp for safety protocols

Megha Paul Aug 10, 2020

Sri Lanka and Grenada are among the latest destinations to begin using the world’s first ever global safety and hygiene stamp

FICCI and OYO join hands for online certification in hospitality industry in post-COVID world

Megha Paul Aug 7, 2020

FICCI and OYO have come together to develop and design an online training and certification course specifically for the hospitality industry

Routes launches new hybrid event for 2020

Megha Paul Aug 6, 2020

A new event by Routes, Routes Reconnected, will provide an innovative platform for the aviation industry to rebuild air services in the post-pandemic era

Need for more unified public and private cooperation towards tourism recovery: PATA

Megha Paul Aug 6, 2020

PATA is calling upon all industry stakeholders from both the public and private sector to work more closely together towards the recovery of the travel and tourism industry

UK is heading to ‘worst case scenario’ threatening nearly three million tourism jobs, says WTTC

Megha Paul Aug 5, 2020

Nearly three million jobs in the UK - and 197 million worldwide in the travel and tourism sector globally - look set to be lost due to the collapse of travel

MICE

ITB announces industry meet up in seven cities across China

Megha Paul Aug 5, 2020

ITB China Industry MeetUp is designed to help industry recover from economic post-Covid-19 fallout, providing unique opportunities for industry professionals to get updated on latest trend…

PATA joins Global Tourism Plastic Initiative to take on plastic pollution

Megha Paul Aug 5, 2020

The initiative unites the tourism sector behind a common vision to address the root causes of plastic pollution

Safe, Responsible and Accessible! UNWTO, ONCE Foundation and ENAT partner for tourism for all

Megha Paul Aug 4, 2020

UNWTO is calling on destinations to recognise the needs of travellers with disabilities or specific access requirements as they open up to visitors again

Virtual PATA Travel Mart 2020 announced

Megha Paul Aug 4, 2020

PATA announced Virtual PATA Travel Mart 2020 will take place in September

WTTC unveils insurance guidelines for travellers in ‘new normal’ of COVID-19 world

Megha Paul Jul 29, 2020

WTTC has unveiled its Insurance Guidelines to rebuild global consumer confidence to help encourage the return of travelling

Impact of COVID-19 on global tourism made clear as UNWTO counts cost of standstill

Megha Paul Jul 29, 2020

The latest edition of the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer shows that the near-complete lockdown imposed in response to the pandemic led to a 98% fall in international tourist numbers in May

Guest Column

Kenya’s Best Wild Life Travel Guide

VISALEETS Immigration and visa services Jul 29, 2020

Kenya, in East Africa, is home to wildlife like rhinos, elephants, and lions. It grabs the top position in the list of the best safari destinations in Africa. More than 80,000  tourists…

Associations

Indonesia, Dubai and Rwanda become latest recipients of WTTC Safe Travels stamp

Megha Paul Jul 27, 2020

Dubai and Rwanda are among the latest destinations begin using to the world’s first ever global safety and hygiene stamp, launched recently by WTTC

ANA makes mark in environmental leadership, commits to ambitious ESG Goals for 2050

Megha Paul Jul 23, 2020

ANA continues its commitment to sustainability and environment by announcing its environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals for 2050

WTTC warns country-wide border closures could seriously stall global economic recovery

Megha Paul Jul 23, 2020

WTTC) has warned governments around the world that further country-wide border closures could seriously jeopardise global economic recovery

Ras Al Khaimah acknowledged for COVID-19 recovery strategy, reopens for US travellers

Megha Paul Jul 23, 2020

Ras Al Khaimah is first city in the world to receive both the Bureau Veritas Safeguard Assurance Label and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Safe Travels Stamp

How tourism sector aims to curb plastic pollution

Megha Paul Jul 23, 2020

A new set of recommendations published outline how the global tourism sector can continue in its fight against plastic pollution while effectively facing the public health and hygiene…

This is no time for complacency post COVID-19, says UNWTO chief

Megha Paul Jul 21, 2020

UNWTO head talks about how mere words will not do and concrete actions are needed for tourism recovery in post-COVID 19 times

Travellers confused by inconsistent COVID-19 travel rules and advice across Europe: WTTC

Megha Paul Jul 17, 2020

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has called for more consistent travel rules and COVID-19 advice by European countries to counter confusion by travellers and holidaymakers.…

Tourism

CWT unveils new data-powered solutions to guide companies and employees on resuming travel

Megha Paul Jul 16, 2020

CWT, the business-to-business-for-employees (B2B4E) travel management platform, announced two new additions to its return to travel resources, which will further arm companies and their…

‘Restarting Tourism’ on SKAL Bangkok’s radar

Megha Paul Jul 16, 2020

To a sold out gathering of travel and tourism professionals SKAL International Bangkok reconvened  after a four month hiatus, with a networking lunch and panel discussion on ‘Restarting…

Dave Hilfman interim head of GBTA

Megha Paul Jul 16, 2020

The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) has named travel industry leader Dave Hilfman as its interim executive director. Hilfman, who retired from United Airlines as senior vice…

Tobago tourism stakeholders join hands for destination safety

Megha Paul Jul 16, 2020

The Tobago Tourism Agency (TTAL) is preparing the island for increased tourism activity and the eventual opening of Trinidad and Tobago’s borders, through product development initiatives…

3 reasons why ACTE filed for bankruptcy

Kristin Mariano Jul 15, 2020

After 32 years of encouraging business travel, the Association of Corporate Travel Executives has ceased operations and will file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

PATA’s updated CRC to prepare industry stakeholders with the “important next steps they will need to advance their recovery”

Alastair Newport Jul 14, 2020

Industry body PATA, (The Pacific Asia Travel Association) has announced the launch of its updated and enhanced PATA Crisis Resource Center (CRC). The platform, created in partnership with…

Travellers should ‘wear to care’ in the new normal: WTTC

Megha Paul Jul 10, 2020

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has called upon all travellers to don protective face masks to show they ‘wear to care’ in the new normal of travelling. As countries…

‘Green Recovery’ must embrace sustainable aviation fuels post-COVID-19

Megha Paul Jul 10, 2020

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) emphasised the aviation industry’s commitment to its emissions reduction goals and called for the International Energy Agency (IEA) to…

WTTC to host unique Global Science Summit on Covid-19

Megha Paul Jul 7, 2020

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) will host a new event to examine the scientific evidence that can be used to inform practical solutions for mitigating and living with…

CINZ and PCMA to develop business events community

Megha Paul Jul 7, 2020

Conventions and Incentives New Zealand (CINZ) and the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) have announced a strategic agreement to work together to support and…

PATA-ADB join hands to expand Crisis Resource Centre

Megha Paul Jul 7, 2020

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is collaborating with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to expand its Crisis Resource Centre (CRC) to provide further aid in the rapid, robust…

Associations

USTOA annual conference to turn virtual this December

Megha Paul Jul 6, 2020

The 2020 USTOA Annual Conference & Marketplace will transition to a virtual event. This was revealed by Terry Dale, president and CEO of the US Tour Operators Association (USTOA).…

ILTM survey says over 50% believe the luxury travel industry will rebound within a year

Megha Paul Jul 3, 2020

In the first global temperature check of the travel advisor community, ILTM- the world’s largest portfolio of luxury travel events - has revealed the results of international research…

Banyan Tree Group receives first-ever safe destination certifications in flagship destination resort

Megha Paul Jul 3, 2020

Banyan Tree Group’s flagship destination integrated resort - Laguna Phuket has secured and successfully held its first post-COVID event ‘Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration…

PATA gets three new members

Megha Paul Jul 2, 2020

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) UK & Ireland has added three new members, which include Cape Panwa Hotel in Phuket, Thailand, a luxury hotel group called Santrian Resorts…

UNWTO’s first official post-pandemic trip to Italy to kickstart steady restart of tourism

Megha Paul Jul 2, 2020

Against the backdrop of the re-opening of borders across Europe, a high-level delegation from the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has arrived in Italy to begin a first official…

MEETINGS 2021 to return to Christchurch

Megha Paul Jun 30, 2020

The countdown for MEETINGS 2021 in Ōtautahi Christchurch has begun with the announcement of new dates for New Zealand’s premier business events exhibition run by Conventions and…

EBRD and UNWTO to aid recovery of tourism sector

Megha Paul Jun 29, 2020

The rapid spread of coronavirus has had a massive impact on many sectors of the global economy, with tourism being among the hardest hit. The European Bank for Reconstruction and…

PATA Dream to Travel Festival opens with focus on Thailand

Megha Paul Jun 29, 2020

With over 1,000 attendees registered, the PATA Dream to Travel Festival officially began on 22 June 2020. The online event brings together travel trade businesses worldwide to learn,…

Imagine Phuket campaign to drive the future of Asia’s most-visited island destination

Alastair Newport Jun 26, 2020

In Asia’s first international destination recovery initiative post-COVID-19, the Phuket Hotels Association and global hospitality branding agency QUO have joined forces to craft an…

WTTC: “We can now replace the confusing mix of different measures including highly-damaging quarantines”

Alastair Newport Jun 26, 2020

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced its new guidelines for 'Safe & Seamless Travel' including testing and tracing to ensure people can enjoy Safe Travels in the…

ABTA launches post-pandemic reopening guide

Alastair Newport Jun 25, 2020

ABTA has published a post-pandemic recovery guide to help UK destinations, and the national travel industry as a whole, through the tricky task of restarting travel. Developed by…

Qatar Travel Mart 2020 to focus on culture and heritage protection

Megha Paul Jun 25, 2020

The World Tourism Association for Culture & Heritage (WTACH) has been appointed as association partner for the Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) in Doha from 17-19 November 2020. The…

Attractions, car hire and short-term rental now on WTTC’s Safe Travels list

Megha Paul Jun 24, 2020

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has unveiled its third phase of measures designed to rebuild global consumer confidence, reduce risk and encourage the return of Safe…

New mantra! Smart recovery to maximise tourism value for communities in the Pacific

Megha Paul Jun 23, 2020

The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), which represents 20 Pacific Island governments and also enlists a large private sector membership base, has partnered with international tourism…

Cumbria Tourism announce petition calling for long-term regional support

Alastair Newport Jun 22, 2020

Tourism and South Lakes MP Tim Farron are calling on local residents to help send a clear message to the Government to provide a long term package of financial support through the COVID-19…

UNWTO joins President Sánchez for revival of Spain’s tourism sector

Megha Paul Jun 19, 2020

The UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has welcomed Spain’s readiness to lead the way in restarting tourism. The head of the United Nations specialised agency attended a meeting with…

Global

Open access to Cruise Champion training from CLIA

Megha Paul Jun 17, 2020

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is offering open access to its new online training course Cruise Champion, making it available to travel agents and other industry…

Associations

PATA to unveil Dream to Travel Festival

Megha Paul Jun 16, 2020

Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) will be launching the Dream to Travel Festival, an online event that brings together travel trade businesses worldwide to learn, network, and…

IATA launches interactive travel regulations world map

Alastair Newport Jun 12, 2020

IATA (International Air Transport Association) has introduced a free online interactive world map to provide travellers with the latest COVID-19 entry regulations by country. The map…

SUNx Malta and WTTC unveil ‘Bend Our Trend’

Megha Paul Jun 10, 2020

SUNx Malta, in collaboration with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has launched a climate resilience campaign called ‘Bend Our Trend’. Led by a 90-second animated video,…

UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres: Tourism can be a platform for overcoming the pandemic

Megha Paul Jun 10, 2020

As United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) leads the restart of tourism, the secretary-general of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, has sent a landmark message to the…

WTTC gives global destinations stamp of approval for safety protocols

Megha Paul Jun 9, 2020

Major destinations around the world have signed up to the world’s first-ever global safety and hygiene stamp, launched recently by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). The…

ATM Virtual: 45% of Chinese are willing to travel overseas

Megha Paul Jun 4, 2020

With the spread of coronavirus under control and domestic leisure travel growing, Middle East travel professionals are now looking to China to initiate international tourism. A joint…

Virtual travel campaign for Bali continues

Megha Paul Jun 2, 2020

The Bali Hotels Association’s (BHA) latest social media promotion a ‘60 Day Virtual Campaign’ launched on 1 May is now at the half-way mark.  Support from travellers and the travel…

Restrictions on tourism travel starting to ease but caution remains: UNWTO

Megha Paul Jun 1, 2020

The world is slowly opening up again, new research from the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) indicates, with destinations cautiously easing travel restrictions introduced in…

Technology

UNWTO unveils global guidelines to reopen tourism

Megha Paul May 29, 2020

The UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has released a set of guidelines to help the tourism sector emerge stronger and more sustainably from COVID-19. The guidelines highlight the…

Technology

Former UNWTO chief to speak at ATM Virtual

Megha Paul May 29, 2020

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) has confirmed that the chairman of the International Tourism & Investment Conference (ITIC) and former UNWTO secretary-general, Dr. Taleb Rifai, will host…

Technology

PATA and FeedsFloor work towards enhanced digital experience for agents

Megha Paul May 29, 2020

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) announced a new organisational partnership with FeedsFloor, a digital platform that enables clients to create and manage various event-related…

UK

Travel agents engagement with customers surges during pandemic

Alastair Newport May 29, 2020

ABTA has unveiled new data which shows record levels of engagement with Members and consumers, indicating the extent to which the coronavirus pandemic has impacted the travel sector for…

New Zealand MICE gets a boost

Alastair Newport May 29, 2020

The New Zealand business events and meetings industry has been given some good news today with the announcement that the sector has had with confirmation large events with separate groups of…

Cruise

Agent alert! Spruce up cruise offerings with PONANT training module now available on CLIA Learning Academy

Megha Paul May 28, 2020

In a move that reflects the growth of interest in luxury small ship cruising - and expedition cruising in particular, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has opened the new…

WTTC launches world’s first-ever global safety stamp

Megha Paul May 28, 2020

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has launched the world’s first-ever global safety and hygiene stamp. The specially designed stamp will allow travellers to recognise…

Technology

Potential Chinese outbound travel market on ATM Virtual’s radar

Megha Paul May 27, 2020

One of the most eagerly awaited sessions during the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) three-day ATM Virtual event that takes place from 1-3 June is the Virtual ATM China Tourism Forum. The…

Global airline debt could rise to nearly USD550 billion

Alastair Newport May 27, 2020

IATA (International Air Transport Association) has published an analysis of the impact of COVID-19 on airlines, which shows the industry’s global debt could reach as much as USD550 billion…

Associations

It’s Quizzin’ time! PATA UK & Ireland launch online travel agent training

Megha Paul May 26, 2020

PATA UK & Ireland are launching virtual training experiences for travel agents, starting with their first-ever online quiz nights. The online quizzes will take place on 28 May, 4…

English Tourism Week goes virtual

Alastair Newport May 22, 2020

VisitEngland has announced this year’s English Tourism Week to highlight the economic importance and value of tourism to local economies across England is going virtual. English Tourism…

ABTA rolls out “specialist material” to coronavirus support hub

Alastair Newport May 21, 2020

ABTA has announced the launch of new free-of-charge, on-demand webinars and industry insight from the association's partners onto its Coronavirus: support from ABTA Partners hub…

Mobile & Social

Domestic travel to lead recovery in Middle East

Megha Paul May 19, 2020

Local tourism and domestic travel are expected to lead the United Arab Emirates’ recovery from Covid-19, according to new research. The topic will come under discussion during the…

Cruise

New CLIA training to support cruise champions

Megha Paul May 15, 2020

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is backing the champions of the cruise community with a new online course for travel agents, helping them to gain a greater understanding of…

Associations

RCNs recommendation should help to boost confidence in UK holidaymakers

Alastair Newport May 15, 2020

The European Commission has published its official Recommendation on Refund Credit Notes (referred to as 'vouchers' in other countries) offered to customers as an alternative to cash…

Tourism

UNWTO releases COVID-19 technical assistance package for tourism recovery

Megha Paul May 13, 2020

The World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has released a Tourism Recovery Technical Assistance Package to offer guidance to member states in response to COVID-19. The package is structured…

Hospitality

WTTC calls on world leaders to implement new ‘Safe Travel’ protocols

Alastair Newport May 12, 2020

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC),  has published a range of new worldwide measures to restart the travel & tourism private sector. The organisation has now called upon…

Associations

World tourism remains at a standstill as 100% of countries impose restrictions on travel

Megha Paul May 12, 2020

COVID-19 has placed the whole world on lockdown, with new research from the UN World Tourism Organisation showing that 100% of global destinations continue to have restrictions on travel…

Hotels

FHRAI initiates training programme for hospitality industry on coronavirus awareness

Megha Paul May 11, 2020

The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) in collaboration with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has initiated a dedicated training…

Hotels

AHLA launches initiative for industry-wide hotel cleaning standards

Megha Paul May 8, 2020

The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) has introduced ‘Safe Stay’, an industry-wide, enhanced standard of health and safety protocols designed to prepare America’s hotels to…

Associations

Not All Heroes Wear Capes! ASTA celebrates National Travel Advisor Day with ‘Travel Hero’ campaign

Megha Paul May 6, 2020

In unison with its industry partners, the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) is celebrating National Travel Advisor Day today with a heartfelt ‘thank you’ for all the work that…

Associations

PATA announces release of 39 destination-specific forecast reports

Megha Paul May 6, 2020

Following last month’s successful release of the ‘Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2020-2024’, complete with updates in response to the current COVID-19 pandemic, the Pacific Asia Travel…

Global

IATA dismisses “empty middle seat” as ‘ineffective’

Alastair Newport May 6, 2020

IATA (International Air Transport Association) supports the wearing of face coverings for passengers and masks for crew while onboard aircraft as a critical part of a layered approach to…

Mobile & Social

PATA and TCI Research to help alleviate travel industry woes

Megha Paul May 5, 2020

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has announced a new organisational partnership with TCI Research, a leading travel data intelligence agency awarded by the UN World Tourism…

UK

GBTA endorses postponement of 2020 Hotel RFP amid coronavirus pandemic

Megha Paul May 4, 2020

The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), the voice of the business travel industry, announced that it will endorse the postponement of the 2020 Hotel RFP until 2021 due to the…

November dates for IATA’s 76th AGM

Megha Paul May 1, 2020

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that its rescheduled 76th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit will take place in Amsterdam, the…

United States

Solombrino to head GBTA

Megha Paul May 1, 2020

The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) has appointed Scott Solombrino to the role of chief executive. He is currently executive director and chief operating officer with the…

ABTA: “Travel agents and tour operators are much needed right now”

Alastair Newport Apr 29, 2020

ABTA is stepping up its request to the Chancellor to extend the government’s salary support scheme for the UK travel industry, in recognition that travel companies will emerge from the…

Associations

Abu Dhabi launches campaign to protect modern heritage

Megha Paul Apr 28, 2020

The Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) Abu Dhabi has launched a campaign to raise the awareness of the public over modern heritage, with the aim of fostering civic pride and…

WTTC calls on G20 tourism ministers to take initiative in Covid-19 recovery

Megha Paul Apr 24, 2020

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has called upon G20 tourism ministers to lead a united and coordinated recovery for the sector out of the Covid-19 crisis. The body, which…

UK

ABTA: “Many travel companies are unable to provide immediate cash refunds”

Alastair Newport Apr 22, 2020

ABTA’s chief executive, Mark Tanzer has written an open letter to customers of the Association’s Members with travel arrangements that have been affected by the coronavirus crisis to explain…

Technology

WTTC unveils ‘Together In Travel’ campaign

Megha Paul Apr 21, 2020

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has launched a new marketing campaign, TogetherInTravel, to galvanise the global travel and tourism community and show how the sector is a…

Associations

Covid-19 response: 96% of global destinations impose travel restrictions, UNWTO reports

Megha Paul Apr 20, 2020

The scale of disruption caused by COVID-19 to global tourism is shown in a comprehensive new report on travel restrictions from the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). The landmark…

WTTC to travel professionals around the world: “Thanks a million”

Megha Paul Apr 17, 2020

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has praised millions of people around the world in the travel and tourism sector for going the extra mile to lend crucial help to combat the…