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Gavel slams: Airbnb not eligible for privileged tax treatment

April 15, 2019 by Forimmediaterelease

A report released on behalf of the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) calls on state and local government leaders to reject Airbnb’s future pursuit of voluntary collection agreements (VCAs) and look to the Wayfair decision as a pathway to cancel current VCA agreements and bring Airbnb up to code with current industry tax standards and regulations.

AHLA released a new report on National Tax Day, conducted by former Director of the Montana Revenue Department Dan Bucks, which clearly demonstrates why the Supreme Court’s Wayfair vs. South Dakota decision last year eliminates the need for state and localities to enter into “voluntary collection agreements” (VCAs) with Airbnb and provides the legal framework and incentive to tax Airbnb like every other U.S. online business now.

“Airbnb no longer qualifies—if it ever did—for privileged treatment by tax agencies as a ‘voluntary collector,’” states Bucks in the report. “This treatment gives Airbnb an unfair advantage in the marketplace by creating a tax and regulatory haven for Airbnb lodging operators. Post-Wayfair, Airbnb’s “voluntary agreements” are now a relic of a past legal premise that no longer exists.”

Bucks urges government leaders to begin the process of terminating existing “voluntary” tax agreements with Airbnb in coordination with state adoption of “general marketplace provider” legislation. Bucks went on to say that disparities between the tax treatment of Airbnb and other online businesses pose a legal risk to states and localities.

“Airbnb has been making back-room deals and strong-arming state and local jurisdictions into ‘voluntary’ tax deals with no transparency, oversight or auditing capability for years,” stated Chip Rogers, President and CEO at AHLA. “Airbnb, and other short term rental platforms need to abide by the same rules as all other law-abiding, tax-paying businesses in the industry.”

AHLA urges state and local government leaders to terminate Airbnb’s voluntary tax deals and instead institute a tax policy that will collect taxes from Airbnb and its operators to ensure an even playing field and transparency for taxpayers. In San Francisco, home of Airbnb’s corporate headquarters, the company agreed to pay back taxes and collect city taxes from its hosts.  AHLA urges other states and localities to follow suit.

“Airbnb’s secret tax agreements are hurting communities across America by shortchanging their schools, infrastructure, and other public services” stated Rogers. “Airbnb’s special treatment needs to end.”

The American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) is the singular voice representing every segment of the hotel industry including major chains, independent hotels, management companies, REIT’s, bed and breakfasts, industry partners and more.

Travel News | eTurboNews

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IMEX to deliver surprise and creativity with new Discovery Zone

April 15, 2019 by Forimmediaterelease

Holograms, robots, magic, music and art are among the surprises set to inspire and delight attendees at IMEX in Frankfurt, taking place 21- 23 May.

The show’s new Discovery Zone is packed with education and experiences to fire up the imagination of event planners and exhibitors alike. It’s designed to help them to question the conventional and explore fresh approaches to business events, with a strong emphasis on ‘experiential’.

Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group, explains: “There are some surprises in store for attendees this year! We don’t believe in ‘business as usual’ and are always evolving and looking for new and engaging ways to encourage innovation in the industry – our new Discovery Zone is the perfect way to do this.”

Robots and holograms

Many innovations at the Discovery Zone turn conventional thinking on its head. Think a piano is played using hands? Think again! ‘Mister Piano’ is a walking piano played using the feet and attendees can put their fancy footwork to the test to hit the right notes. Attendees can also go hands-on and tap into their inner artist at a painting party, craft their own bespoke luggage tags and even take part in fire-infused magic tricks. A talking robot, holographic show and 360degree photography booth are also among the engaging experiences this year.

Practical applications of event tech, diversity and a firm focus on future-thinking all form part of a packed program of sessions at The ZEUS Innovators Club. Attendees will also find the Inspiration Hub – the show’s learning powerhouse – in the Discovery Zone, with sessions covering hot topics such as sustainability and diversity to business skills and creative learning.

Tap into your creative streak at the new Discovery Zone

Fresh green grass and a swing

Prepare for sensory overload and explore the great outdoors while dining indoors at the show’s food court – this has been transformed into Central Park, complete with trees, grass and even a swing! Attendees can also kick back with table football, table tennis and other games for some purposeful rest and relaxation.

Carina Bauer continues: “We know our show delivers significant business benefit to buyers and exhibitors. We also know it’s important for them to have the time and space to experiment, discover new experiences and gather fuel for fresh, innovative ideas. Our new Discovery Zone is set to deliver a huge dose of creativity, with a few surprises along the way. Inspired by this year’s Imagination Talking Point, we asked….what if we wove more experiential and fun elements into the show? What if that translated into more business benefit for everyone attending?”

As well as exploring the new corners of the show, attendees can explore new corners of host city, Frankfurt, thanks to a new interactive accommodation booking map. The map on the IMEX website, powered by Stay 22, provides a simple and efficient overview of many of the independent accommodation options in and around the German city.

Some of the IMEX team took an extended day trip to Frankfurt earlier this year to sample hidden coffee shops, bars, museums and parks in the city. They share memories and tips here.

IMEX in Frankfurt takes place 21 -23 May 2019. Registration for the show is free of charge and open to all who work in the meetings, events and incentive travel industry. EduMonday, its pre-show day of learning and development, is on 20 May (no charge to attend) at Kap Europa next to Messe Frankfurt. 

 

Travel News | eTurboNews

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Driving in the 10 most-visited cities in Mauritius

April 12, 2019 by Forimmediaterelease

While there are many ways to get around Mauritius, car rentals remain a popular option. From visits to quant villages to coastal drives, to visiting cultural attractions and, of course, shopping, getting there by car is the most convenient way to enjoy a trip to Mauritius on your own time.

Pingouin Car Rental is a top car rental company based out of SSR International Airport, making it convenient to hop off the plane and into your car.

At Pingouin Car Rental, customer experience is top priority, and the cost of rental will make your pocketbook very happy. Imagine driving a Mini Cooper, BMW or Kia Sportage around the island, and there’s much more to choose from. And with Pingouin Car Rental, rental is conveniently done online via secured payment processing. Watch how easy it is to rent a car at the airport with Pingouin Car Rental.

Aerial View S.S.R int. Airport

Listen to what customer Richard Mattison has to say about his experience: “I have booked a car online will full payment. On arrival, i had only to present my voucher and the excess amount was blocked. Within three minutes, i was already on my way to my hotel. I advise everyone to pay the 100% online for a swift car delivery. The agents are professional and very responsive. I will not hesitate to book again with Pingouin Car Rental.”

So, get ready to explore Mauritius on your next holiday – it is an island of plenty: plenty of gorgeous beaches, cultural attractions, nature walks, and shopping centers. If you’re visiting on a leisurely vacation, you may want to spend some time exploring at least a few of the island’s ten most visited cities by car.

Plaine Magnien City

Holiday Inn Hotel at Plaine Magnien

Located in southeast Mauritius, Plaine Magnien is a quaint village and home to Mauritius’ only airport: SSR International Airport.

When you arrive on the island, you will first set foot in Plaine Magnien. And this is where we will be waiting for you with the car of your choice that you can drive to your hotel.

With Pingouin Car Rental, you can just check-in online and prepay your rental. They have a pretty large range of rental vehicles, so you can choose one you’re most familiar and comfortable driving. In case of assistance, our 24/7 support team is here for you.

Although there is not much to do in Plaine Magnien, it is of strategic importance. If you’re planning to stay a day or two here, you can visit Tamarind Falls or popular attractions near the village, such as Flic En Flac Beach, Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, La Plantation De Saint Aubin and Caudan Waterfront.

Île aux Cerfs City

Ile aux Cerfs

Île aux Cerfs or Deer Island is a privately-owned island near the island’s east coast. It lies off Trou d’Eau Douce, Mauritius’ largest lagoon and is made of nearly 100 hectares of land.

While its name pays homage to the deer herds that used to inhabit the island, their numbers have decreased and today, visitors and locals come here for wonderful beach experiences.

Relax at a white, sandy beach or indulge in water sports, which range from water skiing to riding in glass bottom or banana boats. Snorkelling is also a popular activity at the beautiful coral reef teeming with rich marine life. If you’re a golfing enthusiast, you can tee off at the island’s 18-hole golf course offering splendid views of the lagoon and emerald waters of the Indian Ocean. After you have worked

up an appetite, stop by at one of the many diverse restaurants, although we recommend trying one that features the local cuisine on its menu.

Blue Bay City

Ile aux des Cocos Island

For stunning scenery and untouched landscapes, visit Blue Bay, a listed Marine Park well-known for its coral beds and amazing marine life.

Make time for a snorkelling adventure on this little bay: you will be amazed at the fuchsia mushroom corals crowning sea beds, and shoals of convict shoalfish, Moorish idols, damselfish and Parrotfish.

Note that the western area of the beach has the richest coral life.  If you’re looking for a budget 3-stars apartmentin Blue-Bay, we highly recommend Pingouinvillas for your stay.  It is only 8 minutes drive from the SSR Int. Airport.  This place is convenient mainly if you have to catch a flight early morning due to its proximity with the airport.

Bagatelle City

Bagatelle Mall

The famous Bagatelle Mall is thronged by tourists and locals alike. Why? The mall has 155 stores and offers the widest selection of specialty stores in Mauritius.

If you intend to shop till you drop, spare some of your time to exploring the brands on offer at the mall and tuck into a delicious treat at its huge food court.

Belle Mare City

Belle Mare Plage Beach

Belle Mare is one of the island’s most picturesque talcum sand beaches. Its water flows along the island’s east coast, which is a less developed tourist area in the region. The blue waters of the 400-meter-long beach sparkle against a backdrop of palm trees and caress soft white sand.  It is a nice area for a picnic, with filao trees offering generous shade and fisherman dropping anchor on weekends.

Grand Bay City

Grand Bay Lagoon

The seaside village of Grand Bay (also known as Grand Baie) is located to the island’s north.

It is a popular resort town whose beaches, nightlife and shopping beckon tourists in large numbers. You can enjoy sailing water skiing wind surfing, deep sea fishing or boat excursions to the northern islands.

Shop at local shops that have been in existence for half a century or visit the area’s modern shopping centres. At nightfall, Grand Bay’s bars and night clubs come alive. If travelling with kids, stop by at the local aquarium where you and yours can feed fish and watch sharks.

Trou aux biche City

Trou aux Biches Sandy Beach

Located on the northern coast of Mauritius, the town of Trou aux biche is home to a beach by the same name, which is a famous spot for sunset watching. World Travel Group has rated the beach as one of Mauritius’ most beautiful.

Several tourist resorts and hotels line the beach, although they don’t interfere with the suburban village-like feel. While you’re here, you can visit the island’s largest Hindu temple, play a few rounds at a local golf course and check out the Mauritius Aquarium mentioned above.

Port Louis City

Port Louis Harbour View

Port Louis is Mauritius’ capital city and home to many cultural attractions. Visit Blue Penny Museum to see the world’s first colonial stamp. Boast about seeing an ancient dodo skeleton at the Natural History Museum. Learn about the island’s religious diversity at a local church, Indian temples, Chinese places of worship and mosques. Take a stroll up Signal Mountain to marvel at the cityscape at sunset.

Tamarin City

Tamarin Crystal Islet

Located on the west coast of Mauritius, Tamarin is home to the Tamarin Bay, a popular surfing spot. It is also a dolphin spotting area, with many boat companies offering trips to watch and swim with dolphins in the mornings. The salt pans of Tamarin are a sought-after attraction – it is the only place on the island that continues producing salt in the traditional, artisanal way, continuing a heritage dating over 200 years. As you drive around, you will see how locals harvest salt, which feeds all of Mauritius.

Le Morne City

Le Morne Brabant Mountain Aerial View

Depending on your individual interests, the village of Le Morne can be the place where you engage in a surfing adventure or one where you relax at a white sandy beach or tee off at a golf course. The One Eye surf spot at Le Morne is world-famous among the surfing community. It is so called because of its fast left tube that traces the shape of an eye before breaking on the shallow reef.

Logo sign Pingouin Car on Hyundai 120

In this artcle, we have highlighted the uniqueness and main features of the 10 most-visited cities in Mauritius. So, next time you’re visiting Mauritius Island, get this guide in hand and you know what is the best way to rent a car in Mauritius once you get out of the airport.

Travel News | eTurboNews

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Genting Cruise Lines welcomes Explorer Dream to its fleet

April 12, 2019 by Forimmediaterelease

Genting Cruise Lines welcomed the third member of its Dream Cruises’ fleet with the christening and inaugural homeport deployment of Explorer Dream in Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal. Explorer Dream is the first newly-launched cruise ship of the post-recalibration period in the Chinese cruise industry and her arrival also marks Dream Cruises’ debut in Eastern China, with the cruise liner purposely-built and recently renovated for the Asian and Chinese luxury market. Leveraging on the deployment of Explorer Dream, Dream Cruises’ first 200,000-tonne Global Class ship, set to debut in 2021, will also celebrate her inaugural deployment in Shanghai as the largest cruise ship to homeport in the Asia-Pacific.

Honorable guests Mr. Su Ping, Vice Magistrate of Shanghai Baoshan District Government and Mr. Hui Lim, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of Genting Hong Kong were joined by management executives and over 500 guests at the ceremonial launch event. The christening ceremony featured Ms. Grace Chen, the godmother of Explorer Dream and one of the most influential fashion innovators in China. The innovative christening was activated by her magic wand of dreams and aspirations and the spirit of exploration was symbolised by a majestic unicorn that led the iconic Dream Cruises’ mermaid out of the ocean and into a new realm, where she will embark on the quest to discover new horizons across the seas. With the traditional breaking of the champagne bottle against the bow of the ship, Explorer Dream officially begins her journey with Dream Cruises.

“Dream Cruises is the most recognized cruise brand in Southern China due to World Dream being positioned in the dual homeports of Guangzhou and Hong Kong. However, as we all know, the Eastern and North Chinese market is five times larger than the south and Dream Cruises will be building two 204,000 gross ton “Global Class” ships to be launched starting early 2021 in Shanghai and Tianjin to accommodate this market. These two ships, being built in our own shipyards Germany, are also designed to be the most advanced and intelligent cruise ships ever to be constructed,” said Mr. Hui Lim, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of Genting Hong Kong. said, “In order to prepare the foundations and increase Dream Cruises’ brand awareness in East and North China, we are pleased today to welcome “Explorer Dream” in Shanghai as the third ship in our Dream Cruises fleet.”

Explorer Dream is the second cruise ship of Genting Cruise Lines to homeport in Shanghai, made possible by the tremendous support of the Shanghai Baoshan District Government. Mr. Su Ping, Vice Magistrate of Shanghai Baoshan District Government said, “In July 2017, Genting Cruise Lines launched the Golden Sea Route 7-night itinerary in Shanghai, which garnered the Best Itinerary Award during the Shanghai Cruise Tourism Festival. In October 2018, a strategic Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Baoshan District Government and Genting Cruise Lines to forge a new partnership. Now, the inaugural arrival of Explorer Dream, the newest member of Dream Cruises in Shanghai, will bring forth distinctive and premium cruise travel products to propel the optimal development of the cruise industry in China.”

After the inaugural ceremony, Grace Chen presented a spectacular fashion show at sea aboard the ship. Eighteen models showcased her Voyage collection and walked the runway on the Palace Pool Deck, where guests enjoyed a visual feast inspired by the spirit of exploration and discovery, both of which are the brand essence of Dream Cruises.

Since its launch two years ago, Dream Cruises has garnered numerous accolades for its two cruise ships, Genting Dream which debuted in 2016 and World Dream in 2017, including Star Performer Top Ten Ratings in the Large Resort Category, “Most Popular Family Cruise Brand in China 2018” by Global Times, Top 5 Cruise Lines in the Large/Medium sized cruise ship category by Conde Nast Traveler’s Gold List and more.

Built with German craftsmanship, Explorer Dream measures 268 meters in length and 32 meters in width. She has a total gross tonnage of 75,338 tons, 928 cabins and lower berth capacity of 1,856 passengers. The signature, luxury “ship within a ship” enclave of Dream Cruises – The Palace, provides an unprecedented “True Asian Luxury” experience to discerning travelers in China and Asia, boasting an industry leading staff to guest ratio, a majority of its suites at over 40 square meters, as well as Proprietary Butler Training endorsed by affiliated company Crystal Cruises – The World’s Most Awarded Luxury Cruise Line.

A generous variety of culinary options will also be available to cater for every taste – from inspired Asian flavours to exquisite Western delicacies. Acclaimed Australian Chef Mark Best will extend his influence on to Explorer Dream with his Seafood Grill by Mark Best serving up the ocean’s bounty in a spectacular al fresco setting. Signature Dream dining favorites will also take pride of place on the new ship including Umi Uma for Japanese delights, Silk Road for traditional Chinese fare, Blue Lagoon for Southeast Asian comfort food and Palm Court for informal refreshments and breath-taking views. For adventurous foodies, the all new Mozzarella Ristorante e Pizzeria will tantalize with a modern fusion of classic Italian dishes and pizzas with a Japanese twist.

Guests of Explorer Dream can also enjoy thematic programs on their journeys at sea including “The Connoisseurs Circle” bespoke enrichment program, featuring inspirational talks and events that are especially curated for guests of The Palace, such as a fashion talk by Grace Chen, the godmother of Explorer Dream.

As the fastest cruise ship in Asia, Explorer Dream offers a great variety of itineraries and flexibility. Sailings from Shanghai homeport will take guests on cruises to popular destinations in Japan that range from 3-night to 6-night itineraries, such as the 3-night cruises to Kyoto, Osaka or Kobe, or the 2-night round-trip cruise to Okinawa. In the month of April, when cherry blossoms in Japan are in bloom, guests can enjoy the dazzling floral display on shore, complemented by authentic Japanese experiences on the cruise, such as specialty dishes featuring Japanese Wagyu beef and pork, tuna cutting performances, Yukata trials, poolside festivals and more.

Starting from 1 July, Explorer Dream will begin her homeport deployment in Tianjin with more summer cruise options for family travelers, who will enjoy the renowned stage productions of Kaixin Mahua at sea. Taking the first step to evolve Dream Cruises into “Asia’s Global Cruise Line” by sailing outside Asian waters, in October 2019, Explorer Dream will homeport in Sydney and Auckland where she will embark on a variety of seven-night weekly itineraries to “Down Under” destinations.

Travel News | eTurboNews

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WikiLeaks founder Assange arrested in London after Ecuador axes asylum deal

April 11, 2019 by Forimmediaterelease

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has been dragged out of the Ecuadorian Embassy in London where he has spent the last seven years. That’s after Ecuador’s president Moreno withdrew asylum.

That’s only a day after WikiLeaks Editor-in-Chief Kristinn Hrafnsson claimed that an extensive spying operation was conducted against Assange in the Ecuadorian Embassy. During an explosive media conference Hrafnsson alleged that the operation was designed to get Assange extradited.

Assange’s relationship with Ecuadorian officials appeared increasingly strained since the current president came to power in the Latin American country in 2017. His internet connection was cut off in March of last year, with officials saying the move was to stop Assange from “interfering in the affairs of other sovereign states.”

Assange garnered massive international attention in 2010 when WikiLeaks released classified US military footage.

The footage, as well as US war logs from Iraq and Afghanistan and more than 200,000 diplomatic cables, were leaked to the site by US Army soldier Chelsea Manning. She was tried by a US tribunal and sentenced to 35 years in jail for disclosing the materials.

Manning was pardoned by outgoing President Barack Obama in 2017 after spending seven years in US custody. She is currently being held again in a US jail for refusing to testify before a secret grand jury in a case apparently related to WikiLeaks.

Assange’s seven-year stay at the Ecuadorian Embassy was motivated by his concern that he may face similarly harsh prosecution by the US for his role in publishing troves of classified US documents over the years.

His legal troubles stem from an accusation by two women in Sweden, with both claiming they had a sexual encounter with Assange that was not fully consensual. Assange said the allegations were false. Nevertheless, they yielded to the Swedish authorities who sought his extradition from the UK on “suspicion of rape, three cases of sexual abuse and unlawful compulsion.”

In December 2010, he was arrested in the UK under a European Arrest Warrant and spent time in Wandsworth Prison before being released on bail and put under house arrest.

His attempt to fight extradition ultimately failed. In 2012, he skipped bail and fled to the Ecuadorian Embassy, which extended him protection from arrest by the British authorities. Quito gave him political asylum and later Ecuadorian citizenship.

Assange spent the following years stranded at the diplomatic compound, only making sporadic appearances at the embassy window and in interviews conducted inside.

Assange argued that his avoidance of European law enforcement was necessary to protect him from extradition to the US, where then-Attorney General Jeff Sessions said that arresting him is a “priority.” WikiLeaks was branded a “non-state hostile intelligence service” by then-CIA head Mike Pompeo in 2017.

The US government has been tight-lipped on whether Assange would face indictment over the dissemination of classified material. In November 2018, the existence of a secret indictment targeting Assange was seemingly unintentionally confirmed in a US court filing for an unrelated case.

WikiLeaks is responsible for publishing thousands of documents with sensitive information from many countries. Those include the 2003 Standard Operating Procedures manual for Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The agency has also released documents on Scientology, one tranche referred to as “secret bibles” from the religion founded by L. Ron Hubbard.

Travel News | eTurboNews

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