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The Seychelles Tourism Board Announces Restructuring in its Operations

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The Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) announces various changes to its overseas operation given the ongoing pandemic and its economic impact on the country. 

On the Chinese market, the STB offices in Hong Kong and Beijing will no longer be in operations in these two cities and its activities will be conducted from the STB office in Shanghai.

In Europe, as of March 2020, the STB office in France will move from its current location to the premises housing Seychelles’ Embassy. Furthermore, the STB office in Italy will close following the retirement of the Director for Italy, Turkey, Israel and the Mediterranean, Mrs Monette Rose as of 1 January 2021. Henceforth, STB will be represented by a Rome-based PR and Destination Representation Company, ITA Strategy srl- headed by Ms Danielle Di Gianvito.

 With more than 25 years of experience, Ms Danielle Di Gianvito has a strong background in the travel industry; she has worked with airlines and several international Tourism Board on the Italian and Spanish markets. To ensure continuity and maintain an authentic link with the Seychelles islands, Mrs Yasmine Pocetti – former STB Marketing Executive will also join the team at ITA Strategy srl and she will be working on the Seychelles account. 

In addition, the STB office in the UK will cease physical operation by the end of February 2021. The Marketing Executive for the UK based office Mrs Eloise Vidot will be working from home while the Director for that market Ms Karen Confait will be based back at the STB headquarters. 

The STB Director for Russia, CIS & Eastern Europe, Mrs Lena Hoareau will also be based at the STB headquarters. 

Additionally, as of the end of February 2021, the STB office in South Africa will also be closed, its Director, Ms Christine Vel will be operating from the STB headquarters, while the STB Regional Director for South Africa, Other Africa and Americas, Mr David Germain will remain in South Africa maintaining an STB presence on the market. 

Speaking about the changes in the STB operations, Mrs Sherin Francis, STB Chief Executive stated that the decisions are purely based on cost reduction but at the same time retention of the team.

“These are difficult times for the industry and the changes are unavoidable. We have to find creative ways to maintain our operation and operate at minimal cost.

We are also mindful that now more than ever, we have to make sure that we remain even more strategic and targeted and stay focus on our mandate,” said Mrs Francis. 

In late November, Mrs Francis addressed a long communication to all STB Staff and collaborators explaining the very difficult predicaments the organisation is facing

An extract taken from her communiqué reads as follows:

“The measures to be applied are to ensure that firstly STB can get through the year, but at the same time maintaining as much of its meagre resources; both human and financial for the eventual recovery of the country. The uncertainties that lie ahead of us requires as much planning and foresight while we acknowledge we are in a time where we have little information or data that can guide us through. To coin a gentler metaphor, normally, the purpose of a fiscal rigour is to prepare us for a rainy day. I think we can all agree that that proverbial rain is already falling today and falling hard. Failing to buy an umbrella, when it is raining and when you can still afford one, is not prudent. It is foolish,” said the STB Chief Executive. 

In the same communique, Mrs Francis also expressed her gratitude to her team locally and overseas for their immense support and continued commitment in these difficult times. She encouraged everyone to not be discouraged and to look forward to sunnier days ahead. 

More news about Seychelles

#rebuildingtravel

MEDIA CONTACT: STB News Bureau, Tel: +248 4 671 354 / +248 4 671 313, stbnews@seychelles.travel  

Seychelles Tourism Board staff movement

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The Seychelles Tourism Board’s (STB) Management and Board would like to inform all its partners and stakeholders of the retirement of Ms. Monette Rose Director for Italy, Turkey, Israel, and the Mediterranean effective January 1, 2020.

Ms. Rose, who joined STB on October 1, 2005 and has been part of its marketing team for the past 15 years was based in Italy where she expertly directed the operations and the various projects.

Ms. Rose will be remembered as a market- savvy and a diligent member of the STB team. Speaking of the retirement of Ms. Rose, Mrs. Bernadette Willemin Director Regional Europe mentioned Monette as an enthusiastic professional.

“Monette’s passion for her country has transpired through her hard work. Having worked close to her for many years, I will not only miss a close collaborator but also a dear friend. Dedicated and always available, Monette is a keen listener and has shared with us her expertise, creativity and her wisdom. She has been a strong link in my European team,” said Bernadette Willemin.

On her part Mrs. Francis stated her gratitude to Ms. Rose for her very many years of service for Seychelles and her great work at the STB.

“It is with mixed emotions that we announce the retirement of a great team member. Monette’s commitment and dedication has played an important role in the growth and success of this destination’s marketing in Italy and the various markets she has worked on. Although we will miss her dearly, she has more than earned the right to spend more time with her loved ones.

The STB Board, management and its team extend their warmest wishes for the future to Ms. Rose and her family.

Prior to joining the STB, Ms. Rose worked in the airline industry namely for Air Seychelles for 17 years and other African Airline companies.

More news about Seychelles

MEDIA CONTACT: STB News Bureau, Tel: +248 4 671 354 / +248 4 671 313, stbnews@seychelles.travel 

Bartlett Mourns Death of Shipping Stalwart Harry Maragh

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Jamaica Tourism Minister Hon. Edmund Bartlett has expressed condolences to the family and loved-ones of the late Harriat “Harry” Maragh, past president of the Shipping Association of Jamaica (SAJ) and chairman of Lannaman & Morris Group of Companies.

“I was very saddened to learn about the passing of one of Jamaica’s stalwarts in the tourism and shipping industries, Harry Maragh. He was always pleasant and the consummate professional. This is indeed a great loss for our industry and he will be truly missed,” said Minister Bartlett.

Maragh’s company Lannaman and Morris is credited as the shipping agent for cruise lines such as Carnival Cruise, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Holland America, Costa Cruises and Aida Cruises. He also the founding manager of the Ocho Rios Cruise Ship Terminal.  Over the years, Lannaman & Morris has become the leading cruise agent, representing in excess of 75 per cent of all cruises that call at Jamaican ports.

“I greatly admire our homegrown talent who start from humble beginnings and go on to do great things for the nation.  He started as a validating/traffic clerk with Lannaman & Morris and later bought the company which has represents in excess of 75 per cent of all cruise lines that call on Jamaica. The success of our industry could not have happened without the stewardship of this great Jamaican.

I offer my sincere condolences to his wife Charmaine and the rest of their family as well as to his staff, who I am sure will miss him dearly. May God continue to provide you comfort during this very difficult period of mourning,” said Minister Bartlett.

In expressing her condolences, Executive Director of the Jamaica Vacations Ltd (JAMVAC), Joy Roberts said, “As one of the main agents for cruise ships with the responsibility of acting as the agent for major cruise ships arriving at our ports, we have worked very closely with Lannamans. Mr. Maragh was very hands-on as CEO, always approachable and reliable, always willing to assist when challenges arise.”

“He was a source of knowledge, expertise and was a great support due to his experience and relationship with the cruise lines. He assisted with giving invaluable advice on the industry and nurtured collaborations between Jamaican stakeholders and cruise executives. He continued to always make that call and assist to the very end. His passing will be a great loss for the cruise industry,” she added.

Maragh served on the Tourism Enhancement Fund’s board of directors as chairman of the audit sub-committee and the human resources sub-committee from June 2012 to February 2016.  At the time of his passing, Harry Maragh was chairman of the Kingston Port Workers Superannuation Fund, a post he had held since 2003. He was also a director of Express Catering and Margaritaville Turks & Caicos.

MEDIA CONTACT: Jamaica Ministry of Tourism, Corporate Communications Division, 64 Knutsford Boulevard, Kingston 5, Tel: 920-4924, Fax: 906-1729

Santa Arrives in The Bahamas for an Extended Stay on Stocking Island

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This year has been long and taxing for everyone — even the world’s jolliest. As an essential worker, Santa’s annual duties this year came with the added pressure of spreading more cheer than ever before.

As a token of appreciation, The Bahamas invited Santa to hang up his suit and hat after the holidays and spend the next year defrosting on Stocking Island in the picturesque Exuma Cays. By gifting Santa and Mrs. Claus complimentary BEATS visas (Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay), they are now able to unwind and experience The Bahamas’ most merry offerings until next Christmas.

Trading snowy boots for bare feet on one of the most beautiful beaches in The Bahamas and where they will feel right at home, Mr. and Mrs. Claus are now soaking up the sun on Jolly Hall Beach, which is reserved especially for The Clauses and their elves. And, thanks to the seclusion of the Out Islands of The Bahamas, they can remain socially distant and out of the public eye on Stocking Island, while they relax and enjoy all the outdoor adventures The Bahamas has to offer.  

“Santa wasn’t the only one working overtime this year; we know that people everywhere need a break and change of scenery,” said Joy Jibrilu, Director General, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation. “The Bahamas welcomes paradise seekers of all kinds to embrace island-time, and we offer a variety of island escapes perfect to suit each visitor’s unique remote working needs.”

The Bahamas has 16 unique islands for travelers to choose from, each with its own individual personality, seclusion and adventure. In The Bahamas, outdoor activities are aplenty, making the destination perfect for a safe, socially distant getaway. A full list of current travel offers can be found on Bahamas.com/deals.

Given that Santa and Mrs. Claus are immune to COVID-19 and in recognition of their hard work during the 2020 holiday season, the Director General is honoured to grant them honourary Travel Health Visas.  Travel entry requirements for the rest of Santa’s entourage and all other visitors can be found on Bahamas.com/travelupdates — including details specifically related to testing and obtaining The Bahamas Travel Health Visa.

Additional details related to the BEATS program application, such as costs and frequently asked questions, are available at BahamasBeats.com.

ABOUT THE BAHAMAS

With over 700 islands and cays, and 16 unique island destinations, The Bahamas lies just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, offering an easy fly away escape that transports travelers away from their everyday. The Islands of The Bahamas have world-class fishing, diving, boating and thousands of miles of the earth’s most spectacular water and beaches waiting for families, couples and adventurers. Explore all the islands have to offer at www.bahamas.com or on Facebook, YouTube or Instagram to see why It’s Better in The Bahamas.

More news about The Bahamas

MEDIA CONTACT:

Anita Johnson-Patty, General Manager, Global Communications

Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation

ajohnson@bahamas.com

Weber Shandwick, Public Relations

Bahamas@webershandwick.com

Sandals Foundation and Hasbro Spread Holiday Cheer to Caribbean Children

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More than 10,000 children experienced a little more joy this holiday season with brand-new toys and games donated by the Sandals Foundation in their annual Christmas Toy Drive.

As the non-profit arm of Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts, the Sandals Foundation’s Annual Holiday Toy Drive has been a staple calendar event for more than 10 years through the generous donation from valued partner, Hasbro, Inc.  Iconic toys of the global play and entertainment company include Nerf, Magic: The Gathering, My Little Pony, and Transformers.

Additionally, support for the annual Toy Drive also comes from Sandals and Beaches Resorts’ team members, visiting guests, and travel industry partners.

While the customary parties were not be held, this year’s region-wide approach galvanized the logistical support of the Salvation Army, police force, schools, and local community groups to carefully distribute more than 10,800 toys to children across the Caribbean – all while bearing in mind the health and safety protocols of the respective countries.

Heidi Clarke, Executive Director at the Sandals Foundation, explained that in light of the challenges experienced this year, it was critical to maintain a semblance of normalcy, particularly during the holidays.

“Christmas is a magical time for children and this year should be no different. Because it has been such a tough time for families across the Caribbean, it was even more important for us to do what we could to help bring joy and, of course, a sense of hope through the delivery of these gifts.”

“Our invaluable partners at Hasbro,” Clarke continued, “have been truly supportive of our mission, and we are pleased that we have been able to find a way to get these toys safely in the hands of some of our most deserving children.”

Shipments of toys have been delivered in the Bahamas, Jamaica, Turks and Caicos, Antigua, St. Lucia, Grenada, and Barbados.

More news about Sandals

Sandals Resorts Announces Expansion to Curaçao

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Sandals Resorts International (SRI), the world’s leading all-inclusive company, announced the signing of an agreement that will bring Sandals® Resorts to a brand-new destination, at the Santa Barbara Resort on the island of Curaçao.

This will mark the ninth island destination for the brand in the Caribbean region. The new Sandals Curaçao will initially include 350-luxurious rooms and suites stretched along the Spanish Water Bay and the Caribbean Sea, with a further expansion planned in the coming years. Formerly the Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort, part of a broader 3,000-acre development, the resort will be completely “Sandalized,” a process set to begin in 2021.

Sandals Curaçao will bring the opulent resort innovations to the island, which have become synonymous with the world-renowned Sandals Resorts brand across the region. Conceptual plans for the resort include adding key elements for the signature Sandals experience, including new expansive pools, a variety of 5-Star Global Gourmet™ dining options and lavish accommodations, including magnificent newly constructed River Suites. Guests will also have access to the neighboring 18-hole Pete Dye championship golf course, two onsite marinas and 38,000-square-feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space, the largest on the island. 

World-famous for its vibrant culture, pristine beaches and coves, Curaçao also boasts spectacular dive sites and exotic marine ecosystems. With year-round temperatures of 80 degrees, it’s touted as the perfect anytime-escape. The resort will have a positive, immediate and long-term impact on the island and the people of Curaçao. In year one alone, it is expected to have an over $40 million economic footprint and an impressive track record on the creation of new employment. The resort alone will add over 1,200 local jobs, comprised of 800 new team members, and 400 local tradesmen and craftsmen. This will be followed by a positive economic ripple-effect for the community extending to the local taxi and transportation sectors, wider supply chain, agriculture, increased airlift and increased yearly tourism numbers—especially with the key US tourism market.

Roald Smeets, Director of the Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort, said: “We have a unique opportunity to attract a globally-recognized hotel operator, owner and investor such as Sandals Resorts, which will bring an unprecedented boon to the Curaçao tourism industry and the local economy. Its position as both a hotel operator and owner, with the ability to attract regular scheduled airlines from North America, distinctly marks it out from other hotel groups. We found its impressive plans for the site and dedication to building the profile of Curaçao as a world-class tourism destination particularly compelling. Its future investment into the community will reinvigorate the tourism market, secure the livelihoods of hundreds of families and benefit every individual on the island through rejuvenating the local economy. Curaçao has a tremendous future ahead, due to this exciting new venture, which will put Curaçao truly on the global stage.” 

Sandals Resorts International Founder and Chairman, the Hon. Gordon “Butch” Stewart, along with Deputy Chairman Adam Stewart, had this to share: “It has been our distinct pleasure to work alongside the government of Curaçao and the Smeets family on this exciting new endeavor for the Sandals brand,” stated Gordon “Butch” Stewart. “We wish to express our deepest gratitude to Roald Smeets, who has been instrumental to this process and absolutely delightful to work with. We plan to do more than our part to raise the world’s appreciation of this beautiful country.”

Adam Stewart added: “Each time we expand, we bring with us the full potential of our 40-years in hospitality. The new Sandals Curaçao embodies our philosophy of forward-thinking and looking through a new lens. It is a promise not only to our guests but to our team members for continued innovation. Curaçao is a place to be discovered, and we are so proud today to become part of this community.”

More news about Sandals

#rebuildingtravel

MEDIA CONTACT: 1-888-SANDALS, info@sandals.com

2020 In Review: The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation Reflects on a Difficult Year and Looks Forward to Brighter Days to Come

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As 2020 comes to an end, the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation is once again reflecting on a remarkably historic and challenging year. After celebrating a record-breaking seven million visitors in 2019, the country was poised for continued growth and tourism-driven prosperity, thanks to planned increases in airlift from several major airlines, not to mention the endorsement of international media outlets, such as The New York Times, Frommer’s and The Globe and Mail, among others, that had touted The Bahamas as a must-visit destination in 2020.

The COVID-19 pandemic was an unforeseen crisis that has had an unprecedented impact on the global tourism industry, the effects of which have been felt greatly in The Bahamas. Tourism is the heart of the country and, therefore, is everyone’s business. As was seen after Hurricane Dorian, Bahamians are no strangers to making history under difficult circumstances. Now, the Bahamian people have come together as a family of islands, united in strength and resilience to help curb the spread of COVID-19 and ensure that business can soon prosper again. There is great optimism in that the islands will see a return to record breaking visitor numbers, once it is safe for all to travel freely again. In the meantime, the government is doing all that is possible to get Bahamians back to work.

“It is with the consistent support and collaboration of The Bahamas’ tourism stakeholders, promotion boards, agencies, media and other travel partners that the country has been able to establish the on-island guidelines and preventative measures to help curb further spread of COVID-19,” said the Bahamas Minister of Tourism & Aviation, Dionisio D’Aguilar. “Our new, streamlined protocols for entry and inter-island travel, adjusted after careful monitoring, diligent analysis and swift response from all government entities, responsibly enforce public health and safety measures while allowing travellers to more freely enjoy our vacation experience.”

The latest protocols have been well received by consumers and tourism partners alike and coincide with news of hotel property reopenings and increased airlift resumption. Of note, three of the largest hotel properties in Nassau – Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, Atlantis Paradise Island and British Colonial Hilton – are reopening mid-December, with additional hotel inventory coming back in January and February. Also starting mid-December, top U.S. airline carriers including JetBlue, American Airlines, United Airlines and Delta are adding flights to their schedules.

“It is our duty at The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation to promote tourism to our beautiful country, and while 2020 brought unprecedented roadblocks to that task, our optimism and dedication to that mission never wavered,” said Joy Jibrilu, Director General of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation. “As we look ahead to 2021, we will continue to find new and unique ways to promote our islands offerings through expanded programs and initiatives that will bring even more visitors back to our shores as quickly as possible.”

The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation continues its aggressive public relations and marketing campaign to reach key markets in the U.S. and promote that The Bahamas is open for business, while sharing entry requirements and travel protocols necessary to keep the country safe. Promotional tactics include:

•             Targeted Media Plan – Since the beginning of March, a strategic, geo-targeted media plan has been underway with the goal of keeping The Bahamas in the consideration set for travellers, specifically those living in key markets such as South Florida, Houston and New York, and enticing those who have frequented the destination in the past to return.

•             Robust Media Outreach – Consistent and widespread communication to tourism, lifestyle and news media has informed consumers that The Bahamas is open for visitors, while sharing accurate information on entry requirements and on-island protocols that will impact visitors. Publications that cover key vertical markets such as private aviation and boating were also targeted to ensure their audiences are informed of the latest requirements for visiting The Bahamas.

  • Recent Awards – The Bahamas swept the awards circuit this year, winning several top accolades. Caribbean Travel Awards named The Bahamas Innovative Destination of the Year; four Bahamian hotels including Kamalame Cay, Rosewood Baha Mar, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar and SLS Baha Mar were recognized by Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards, and The Islands of The Bahamas has been recognized in this year’s Scuba Diving Magazine’s Readers Choice Awards, with placements highlighting the destination’s vast dive offerings across 700 islands and cays. The awards included The Bahamas winning top spots in many categories but most notable   #1st in the big animals’ category.  Caribbean Journal’s Caribbean Travel Awards Recognizes The Bahamas in Three Categories – In Caribbean Journal’s 7th annual Caribbean Travel Awards, The Bahamas was awarded Innovative Destination of the Year for its continued flexibility throughout the pandemic and setting a standard for destination entry practices. Additionally, Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport was named Caribbean Airport of the Year and Graycliff was recognized as the Caribbean Restaurant of the Year.

•             Bahamas Extended Stay Program – The Islands of The Bahamas announced its new Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS) program, a one-year residency permit designed to allow professionals and students to pack their laptop and their swimwear as they march to the beat of their own island drum, remotely, from The Bahamas.

•             Refreshed Website – A new, revamped Bahamas.com website is preparing to launch, offering a more user-friendly interface and including additional tools to promote key passion points for potential travellers. New sections will highlight romance, events, adventure and an extensive focus on how to get to the Out Islands.

•             Virtual Sales and Vertical Market Offerings – As sales and vertical market promotion could not be conducted in-person this year, the Ministry of Tourism’s sales team worked quickly to come up with virtual offerings that would keep the travel trade community engaged.  This work included the development of a new virtual platform for webinars and trade shows. The Bahamas specialist program was newly redeveloped to close the gap between education, inspiration and sales.  With this new technology, the Ministry of Tourism conducted virtual events around the world bringing all suppliers and trade partners together to share and discuss COVID-19 protocols and updates. Additional virtual events included: the first-ever virtual Bahamas dive pavilion for dive operators during DEMA, the largest dive supplier show in the world; webinars for private aviators espousing the coming pre-clearance initiative in South Florida and Facebook Live events featuring culinary experts, award winning mixologists and other local craftsmen. Lastly, the team worked hard to strengthen relationships with air partners in an effort to facilitate the return of international flights.  The Ministry also launched a dive and boat ambassador program which includes top influencers in the industry who will support and assist us in promoting the destination.  Highlights for Romance 2020 include successful participation to TravAlliance Fall show for Destination Weddings and Honeymoon Segment and official review of The Bahamas’ Romance Magazine which will be fully launched during the Ministry’s Romance Forum in March of 2021.

•             Authentic Storytelling – An award-winning content marketing campaign featured local Bahamians speaking to the country’s culture, cuisine, art and other unique offerings that make The Bahamas stand out from other island getaways.

•             Blogger Program – In addition to an authentic storytelling program, the Ministry of Tourism also developed a robust blogging program on Bahamas.com where local influencers and writers shared their stories of travel and culture in The Bahamas in hopes of inspiring wanderlust and connecting with future visitors.

•             Local Content Shoots – In an effort to keep new creative content flowing on Visit The Bahamas social channels, the Ministry enlisted local talent and camera crews to shoot content aimed at enticing users to want to learn more about the destination.

ABOUT THE BAHAMAS

With over 700 islands and cays, and 16 unique island destinations, The Bahamas lies just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, offering an easy fly away escape that transports travellers away from their everyday. The Islands of The Bahamas have world-class fishing, diving, boating and thousands of miles of the earth’s most spectacular water and beaches waiting for families, couples and adventurers. Explore all the islands have to offer at www.bahamas.com or on Facebook, YouTube or Instagram to see why It’s Better in The Bahamas.

More news about The Bahamas

MEDIA CONTACT:

Anita Johnson-Patty

General Manager, Global Communications

Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation

ajohnson@bahamas.com

The Islands of The Bahamas Swept the 2020 Travel Award Circuit

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Despite an unprecedented year, The Bahamas continues to position itself as a leading Caribbean travel destination and received top accolades from consumer, trade and niche vertical award shows. With its unique geography of 16 major islands and hundreds of cays, the islands appeal to travelers eager to get away and indulge in a secluded vacation. As the island nation looks back at 2020, with a number of awards from Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler and Caribbean Journal under its belt, The Bahamas is determined to have an even brighter 2021.

“We are thrilled to have The Bahamas recognized in so many awards, despite the difficult year our tourism industry faced,” said Ministry of Tourism Director General Joy Jibrilu. “These awards certify that The Bahamas remains a favorite among travelers, and we are eager to continue to welcome them back in the new year.”

Travel + Leisure Awards Bahamian Islands in World Best Awards ­– The Abacos, Harbour Island, The Exumas and Eleuthera were recognized in Travel + Leisure’s World Best Awards in the Top 25 Islands in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and The Bahamas category. Andros’ Kamalame Cay Resort was awarded in the Top 100 Hotels in the World and Top 25 Caribbean Resort Hotels categories.

The Bahamas Awarded in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2020 Readers’ Choice Awards – Four Bahamian hotels were recognized by Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. Kamalame Cay, Rosewood Baha Mar, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar and SLS Baha Mar were included in the Top 15 Resorts in the Atlantic Islands category.

Caribbean Journal’s Caribbean Travel Awards Recognizes The Bahamas in Three Categories – In Caribbean Journal’s 7th annual Caribbean Travel Awards, The Bahamas was awarded Innovative Destination of the Year for its continued flexibility throughout the pandemic and setting a standard for destination entry practices. Additionally, Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport was named Caribbean Airport of the Year and Graycliff was recognized as the Caribbean Restaurant of the Year.

The Bahamas Takes Home 13 Awards in Scuba Diving Magazine’s Readers Choice Awards – The Islands of The Bahamas was recognized in this year’s Scuba Diving Magazine’s Readers Choice Awards, with placements highlighting the destination’s vast dive offerings across 700 islands and cays. The country was voted number one for Best Big Animals, placed in the top five for Best Overall Destination, Best Cave Diving, Best Snorkeling and Best Value and in the top ten for Best Wreck Diving, Best Wall Diving, Best Advanced Diving, Best Photography, Best Shore Diving, Best Macro Life and Best Health of Marine Life.

ABOUT THE BAHAMAS 

With over 700 islands and cays and 16 unique island destinations, The Bahamas lies just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, offering an easy fly away escape that transports travelers away from their everyday. The Islands of The Bahamas have world-class fishing, diving, boating and thousands of miles of the earth’s most spectacular water and beaches waiting for families, couples and adventurers. Explore all the islands have to offer at www.bahamas.com or on Facebook, YouTube or Instagram to see why It’s Better in The Bahamas. 

More news about The Bahamas

MEDIA CONTACT:

Anita Johnson-Patty

General Manager, Global Communications

Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation

ajohnson@bahamas.com  

Weber Shandwick

Public Relations 

Bahamas@webershandwick.com   

Centara Unveils New Cosi Krabi Ao Nang Beach for the Freedom Loving Traveler

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Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, has debuted its COSI brand in southwest Thailand with the opening of COSI Krabi Ao Nang Beach.
 
Styled as “The Lifestyle Hotel for the Freedom Loving Traveller”, COSI Krabi Ao Nang follows in the trendsetting footsteps of its sister hotels in Koh Samui and Pattaya.
 
Capturing the youthful energy of the hotel is a series of red hawk murals – a motif chosen to symbolize freedom – specially created for COSI Krabi by award-winning street artist Rukkit Kuanhaweth.
 
COSI’s signature social vibe is cultivated with The Hub, the heart of the hotel designed as a chill-out space to watch a film or a game, get some work done at the coworking space, and mingle with like-minded travelers any time day or night.
 
Also central to the COSI lifestyle is 24-hour convenience, which, in addition to the 24-hr Hub, extends to a café, COSI Fit fitness center, and a self-service laundromat, all open around the clock.
 
The smart hotel provides all the necessary comforts for today’s connected generation. Each of COSI Krabi’s 142 rooms comes fully equipped with power shower, free Wi-Fi, Smart TV, bedside USB ports, in-room safe, and a small retro fridge. Guests have a choice of three room types, including king or twin bed configurations, and a COSI Plus room which features a king bed and bunk bed, ideal for a small group of friends or young family seeking the social and connected COSI experience. 
 
When COSI guests are not out and about exploring all that Krabi has to offer, they can unwind at the hotel’s rooftop pool, complete with underwater speakers, and enjoy the stunning views of Ao Nang’s iconic limestone rocks.
 
Rock climbing holds adorn feature walls around the hotel, referencing Krabi’s reputation as a world-class rock climbing and bouldering destination. In the guest rooms, headboard designs draw inspiration from iconic long-tail boats that ply the waters in southern Thailand.
 
Guests who wish to explore more of the destination need not go far, as the hotel is located within walking distance from Ao Nang Beach and the town’s nightlife and restaurants. Further afield, adventure-loving travelers can visit and explore the region’s caves, go rock climbing on its soaring limestone cliffs, and go in search of offshore island gems.
 
“Krabi is a beautiful destination, and with the opening of COSI Krabi, we look forward to providing a trendy base for freedom-loving travelers exploring the region. After months of preparation, my team and I are very excited to start welcoming guests,” said Rutjiret Ananphong, General Manager, COSI Krabi Ao Nang Beach.

To celebrate its opening, COSI Krabi Ao Nang is offering an “Even Stronger Together” package with rates starting at THB 720, which includes THB 100 food & drink credit per person per night. Guests can also enjoy free early check-in from 9 a.m., and late check-out up to 9 p.m. for stays on Sundays to Thursdays, subject to availability. 
 
For more information and reservations, please visit
https://www.centarahotelsresorts.com/even-stronger-together/

COSI Rooms range from 18 – 22 sqm with king or twin beds
Café 247, the social hub of the hotel, stays open around the clock
Rooftop swimming pool at COSI Krabi Ao Nang Beach


ABOUT CENTARA

Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 81 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, China, Japan, Oman, Qatar, Cambodia, Turkey, Indonesia and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, Centara Grand Hotels & Resorts, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Centara Boutique Collection, Centra by Centara and COSI Hotels – ranging from 5-star city hotels and luxurious island retreats to family resorts and affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology. It also operates state-of-the-art convention centers and has its own award-winning spa brand, Cenvaree. Throughout the collection, Centara delivers and celebrates the hospitality and values Thailand is famous for including gracious service, exceptional food, pampering spas and the importance of families. Centara’s distinctive culture and diversity of formats allow it to serve and satisfy travelers of nearly every age and lifestyle.

Over the next five years Centara aims to become a top 100 global hotel group, while spreading its footprint into new continents and market niches. As Centara continues to expand, a growing base of loyal customers will find the company’s unique style of hospitality in more locations. Centara’s global loyalty program, Centara The1, reinforces their loyalty with rewards, privileges and special member pricing.
 
Find out more about Centara at www.CentaraHotelsResorts.com and see why our hotels and resorts are The Place to Be on our video.


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More news about Centara

Media Contacts:
 
Pornchanok Thongrungrot (Pao)
Corporate Public Relations Manager – International Media, Centara Hotels & Resorts
pornchanokth@chr.co.th            Tel. +66 (0)2769 1234 Ext. 6733
 
Puntira Cherdboonmuang (Gam)
Corporate Public Relations Manager – Thai media, Centara Hotels & Resorts
puntirach@chr.co.th                  Tel. +66 (0)2769 1234 Ext. 6922
 
Jerome Richard
VP, Communications – Delivering Asia Communications
Tel. +66 (0) 90 902 5407
Email: jr@deliveringasia.com

Seychelles Reconnects to Doha

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Destination Seychelles welcomes Qatar Airways back on its shores as the airline landed at the Seychelles International airport of Pointe Larue on Tuesday, December 15, 2020, at 8:55 am.

The national airline of the State of Qatar announced the resumptions of flights to Seychelles earlier in December with an operation of three weekly flights.

Ensuring the small island destination is more accessible to the world; Qatar adds itself to the list of serving airlines with extended reach to all corners of the globe.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “We are delighted to resume our flights to the Seychelles, expanding our network to over 70 weekly flights into Africa to 21 destinations. With its stunning white-sand beaches, island hopping opportunities and vibrant forests, we are sure the Seychelles is going to be a very popular option for passengers to enjoy a memorable vacation, even with the start of winter season around the world.”

On her part the Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) Chief Executive, Mrs. Sherin Francis stated that the recommencement of Qatar Airways flights to Seychelles comes at an ideal time for the destination.

“It is an honor for the destination to be considered by Qatar Airways as part of its flight route. The restart of flight between Qatar and Seychelles comes at an opportune time as the destination strengthened its marketing strategies in order to make Seychelles more visible and accessible to its prime source markets,” said Mrs. Francis.

The paradise destination was one amongst the first destinations to open for tourism in the Indian Ocean with a promise of safe tourism within a flexible environment.

According to the figures from the Seychelles National Bureau of Statistics, Seychelles has recorded 104,735 visitors from January 2020 to date.

More news about Seychelles

MEDIA CONTACT: STB News Bureau, Tel: +248 4 671 354 / +248 4 671 313, stbnews@seychelles.travel