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2020 Great Abaco Classic to be played at The Royal Blue Golf Club at Baha Mar

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bdG Sports, an international sports management company, announced today that the 2020 The Bahamas Great Abaco Classic will be moved to Royal Blue Golf Club at Baha Mar due to Hurricane Dorian’s impact on Great Abaco.

The Korn Ferry Tour tournament, which features 132 professionals vying in the year-long series to earn their PGA TOUR card, will be played Jan. 16-22 in its traditional role as the second event of the new season, following The Bahamas Great Exuma Classic, which is played the week before at Sandals Emerald Bay.

“We look forward to welcoming The Great Abaco Classic to The Royal Blue Golf Club in January,” said Graeme Davis, President, Baha Mar. “Everyone at Baha Mar is committed to the recovery and rebuild of the Abacos and we knew how important it was to keep this tournament in the beautiful nation of The Bahamas until its return to Great Abaco.

Hurricane Dorian created catastrophic damage as a Category 5 hurricane – the strongest storm to ever hit The Bahamas – when it slammed into the Abacos on Sept. 1. The Abaco Club, where the event has been played the past three years, officially re-opened this month, but the hurricane took aim on Marsh Harbour, the island’s largest town, and left nearly every home and business damaged. Progress on rebuilding Abaco is underway, as evidenced by the reopening of Maxwells last week, one of the island’s only grocery stores. But the island needs time to recover before housing nearly 500 visitors for a week, which includes golfers, caddies, tournament officials, broadcast production staff, and fans.

Of the relocated tournament, Bahamas Minister of Tourism & Aviation, the Hon. Dionisio D’Aguilar remarked, “In ensuring that the Great Abaco Classic takes place, in spite of the devastation to its original venue, Abaco, our partners, the PGA TOUR and bdG Sports, have shown genuine commitment to The Bahamas and our people, a gesture which we deeply appreciate. The relocated Great Abaco Classic will find a welcome home at Baha Mar’s Royal Blue Golf Club and will certainly live up to the reputation it has established as Abaco’s premier golf tournament.”

The resort destination of Baha Mar is situated across 1,000 acres along the north shore of New Providence Island, in Nassau, the capital of The Bahamas. Baha Mar is home to three iconic hotel brands, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, SLS Baha Mar and Rosewood Baha Mar, as well as a collection of unparalleled offerings and experiences including the largest casino in the Caribbean; over 40 restaurants, bars, and lounges; luxury shopping, and more.  The Royal Blue Golf Club at Baha Mar is the first and only Jack Nicklaus design in The Bahamas. Spanning nearly 7,200 yards, Royal Blue Golf Course’s front nine features water-lined fairways and glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean, while the back nine navigates dense jungle until the island green at the par-3 16th hole on Lake Cunningham.

“Korn Ferry Tour President Alex Baldwin and her team at the PGA TOUR were adamant about making the necessary investments to ensure this tournament happened,” said Brooks Downing, Chief Executive Officer at bdG Sports. “And thanks to the tremendous support of both Mr. Davis and Minister D’Aguilar, we are going to utilize this platform to make sure that the Abaco rebuilding effort remains front and center.”

As in years past, and mirroring the Great Exuma Classic, the event is played using a unique Sunday-Wednesday format, allowing for maximum exposure while also appealing to the guests who can participate on the weekend in the official pro-am, scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 18.

With the change, the event will officially be called “The Bahamas Great Abaco Classic at Baha Mar.” And in addition to the global exposure, proceeds from the event will be donated to relief efforts in Abaco.

Bahamas Showcase Basketball Moved to Baha Mar

The Islands of the Bahamas Showcase, an NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament, has been moved from Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium to the Baha Mar Convention Center, organizers announced today.

The eight-team tournament, now in its third year in Nassau, is scheduled to be played Nov. 22-24, 2019, but has been relocated given that Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium has been serving as a shelter for a number of people from Abaco and Grand Bahama who were displaced by Hurricane Dorian. The Category 5 hurricane hit the northern Bahamas on Sept. 1, damaging a large number of homes and businesses with gusts up to 220 mph, sea surge that rose to 24 feet and more than 48 inches of rain in some areas.

“With the national gymnasium serving a greater purpose, we are fortunate that Baha Mar was in a position to welcome this event at the resort on the same dates,” said Brooks Downing, CEO of bdG Sports, the event owner and operator. “For the prior two years, we have housed our eight participating teams at Baha Mar, so our teams will love the convenience of a stay-and-play model. We’re also fortunate that Baha Mar has recently made an investment and plans to do more basketball programming at the resort, so the move has been seamless.”

The resort played host to the Memphis men’s basketball program in August, as it played games there on a foreign exhibition tour.

“Basketball, both collegiate and professional, is close to the hearts of many Bahamians, and teams from the U.S. have been some of the strongest supporters of Baha Mar since the resort first opened,” said Graeme Davis, President, Baha Mar. “We could not pass up the chance to partner with Ministry of Tourism to Showcase and continue to host this incredible event at home in the Bahamas.” 

The tournament’s first-round action on Friday, Nov. 22, will feature Liberty vs. Morgan State, Rice vs. Milwaukee, UMKC vs. George Washington and Evansville vs. East Carolina. The semifinals and consolation will follow on Saturday with the championship, third-place, fifth-place and seventh-place games on Sunday.

About Baha Mar

Baha Mar is a master planned $4.2 billion integrated resort development operated by Hong Kong-based conglomerate Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited (CTFE). The white sand beach destination includes three global brand operators – Grand Hyatt, SLS, and Rosewood – with over 2,300 rooms and 40 restaurants and lounges, the largest casino in the Caribbean, a state-of-the-art convention center, an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Royal Blue Golf Course, the Caribbean’s first and only flagship ESPA spa, and over 30 luxury retail outlets. Baha Mar is a breathtaking location with dynamic programming, activities and guest offerings in one of the most beautiful places in the world – The Bahamas. For more information and reservations, visit www.bahamar.com.

About bd Global

bd Global, LLC is a representation, event management, and public relations firm operating on an international platform within the sports marketing industry. bdG manages multiple college basketball and college hockey events across North America and the Caribbean, highlighted by tournaments in Southwest Florida, Las Vegas, Canada and The Bahamas as well as two Korn Ferry Tour events and a Nike Golf Invitational series. For more information, visit www.bdglobalsports.com  or follow on @bdGlobalSports on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jon Albaugh, bdG Sports, jda@bdglobalsports.com , 859-492-6794

WTM London unveils Sri Lanka as Premier Partner for 2019

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Sri Lankan Tourism will be the Premier Partner at WTM London 2019 as the island’s tourism industry continues it’s resolute for recovery.

The high-profile partnership will ensure global coverage for the Indian Ocean destination, which has also teamed with legendary Sri Lankan cricketer Kumar Sangakkara to help tourism bounce back.

As a spokesman for Sri Lanka Tourism and the first non-British to be elected to the Presidency of Marylebone Cricket Club MCC based at Lord’s, Sangakkara will promote the destination’s key tourist attractions which are being marketed under the new brand ‘So Sri Lanka’.

During an interview announcing the partnership, Sangakkara said: “I am very confident that tourists who come to Sri Lanka will have a wonderful time. I have seen the country recover very well in terms of ensuring the security of both its nationals and tourists from all over the world. Those who come to Sri Lanka want to experience the country in full.”

The Premier Partnership deal with WTM London will mean thousands of international travel trade professionals and buyers will see the new ‘So Sri Lanka’ branding, and hundreds of journalists and influencers will hear about the country’s culture, scenery and heritage.

The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau will share its exhibition space at WTM London (Stand AS200) with 67 travel trade partners, including hotels, travel agencies, resorts and operators – all united in their mission to help the country rebuild its tourism trade.

Tourist numbers plunged by 70% in the wake of April’s tragic events, but concerted efforts by the Sri Lankan tourist industry mean the recovery is happening faster than expected, with these efforts, in September the drop was narrowed to just 20%, the destination outlook is positive to bounce back at the end of the year.

According to the Minister of Tourism Development, Wildlife & Christian Religious Affairs Hon. John Amaratunga: “The government has done everything possible to regain the popularity for the destination by building confidence carrying out various aggressive promotional campaigns.  We are fortunate to have the world unitedly supporting us and rallying around to help the tourism industry, this has helped spread economic benefits far-reaching to many other important economic sectors too; and also to local communities who need it most.

“Tourism is a lifeline to Sri Lanka’s economy, unlike in the past, it has become connected to everyone in the country. Before long, tourism will definitely be the number one revenue earner for Sri Lanka”

Tourist arrivals in 2018 had reached a record 2.3 million – worth almost $4.4 billion – and numbers still look set to top two million in 2019.

Coverage of the island’s remarkable natural beauty, rich heritage and welcoming locals are certainly playing a role in supporting its recovery. It has almost 1,600 kilometres of palm-fringed coastlines, while the interior offers the chance to explore tea plantations, spice gardens, national parks, lush jungle and waterfalls. Sri Lanka is one of the top places in Asia for spotting wildlife, such as elephants, sloth bears, leopards, wild buffaloes and even the elusive blue whale, in their natural habitat.

Along with natural wonders, the island has thousands of years of history for visitors to discover, including six cultural UNESCO World Heritage Sites, plus palaces, temples and monasteries.

Visitors can also experience the benefits of Ayurveda, Sri Lanka’s traditional art of healing, and restore their body and soul at the island’s many wellness retreats and resorts. Furthermore, food and hospitality play a crucial role in the country’s culture, with tourists able to enjoy a wide variety of curry and meat dishes, soups, seafood and vegetarian cuisine. Coconut milk is a distinctive ingredient in many meals, and the island is world-renowned for its tea.

WTM London’s Senior Director, Simon Press, said: “WTM London is delighted to announce Sri Lanka as its Premier Partner for 2019.

“It has been so heartening to see the country recover from the appalling events last Easter, and it looks set to have a busy winter season.

“Being WTM London’s Premier Partner means Sri Lanka can entice trade buyers and media from across the globe, which will help visitor numbers return to or even surpass the levels seen in 2018 – boosting the country’s economy and helping to provide jobs for thousands of workers.”

For more information about WTM, click here.

WTM London unveils Sri Lanka as Premier Partner for 2019
WTM London

About World Travel Market

World Travel Market (WTM) portfolio comprises eight leading B2B events across four continents, generating more than $7 billion of industry deals. The events are:

WTM London, the leading global event for the travel industry, is the must-attend three-day exhibition for the worldwide travel and tourism industry. About 50,000 senior travel industry professionals, government ministers and international media visit ExCeL London every November, generating about £3.4 billion in travel industry contracts.

Next event: Monday 4 – Wednesday 6 November 2019 – London #IdeasArriveHere

About Reed Exhibitions

Reed Exhibitions is the world’s leading events business, enhancing the power of face-to-face through data and digital tools at more than 500 events a year, in more than 43 countries, attracting more than seven million participants. Reed’s events are held in the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific and Africa and organised by 41 fully staffed offices. Reed Exhibitions serves 43 industry sectors with trade and consumer events. It is part of RELX Group plc, a world-leading provider of information solutions for professional customers across industries.

About Reed Travel Exhibitions

Reed Travel Exhibitions is the world’s leading travel and tourism event’s organiser with a growing portfolio of more than 22 international travel and tourism trade events in Europe, the Americas, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Our events are market leaders in their sectors, whether they are global and regional leisure travel trade events, or specialist events for meetings, incentives, conference, events (MICE) industry, business travel, luxury travel, travel technology as well as golf, spa and ski travel. We have more than 35 years’ experience in organising world-leading travel exhibitions.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Julia Newbound – WTM Portfolio Press & PR Lead

E: julia.newbound@reedexpo.co.uk

T: +44 (0)20 8910 7056 / M: +44 (0)7775 036 858

Nicole Smart – WTM Portfolio PR & Events Consultant

E: nicole.smart@reedexpo.co.uk

T: +44 (0)20 8910 7032/ M: +44 (0)79 1955 5510

15,000 travel industry experts attended OTDYKH Leisure Fair 2019

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From 10-12 September 2019 the Expocentre in Moscow hosted the prestigious 25th anniversary of the OTDYKH Leisure expo. Over the course of three days almost 15,000 travel industry experts attended the fair, and over 600 exhibitors participated from 35 countries and 41 Russian regions. The expo showcased developments in a range of sectors, such as industrial, event, medical, sports and gastronomic tourism. Companies from across the travel industry took part, including tour operators, hotels, resorts, airlines and transport companies.

This ground-breaking event was officially endorsed by the Russian Federation’s Ministry of Culture, the Federal Agency for Tourism, the Russian Union of the Travel Industry and the Russian Association of Tour Operators.
The opening ceremony of the expo was attended by an official delegation, headed by the Deputy Minister of Culture, Alla Manilova. Also present were the Advisor of the Head of the Federal Tourism Agency, Elena Lysenkova, and the President of the Chamber of Commerce, Maksim Fateev. Other esteemed guests included the ambassadors of Brunei, Spain, Mexico, Myanmar, Moldova, Panama and Egypt.

The participants

A range of top international tourist destinations had exclusive stands at the event, including the Dominican Republic, India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, China, Spain, Serbia, Cuba, Tunis, Morocco, Taiwan, Egypt etc.
In addition to the returning exhibitors, the OTDYKH Leisure Fair 2019 welcomed a number of newcomers; among them were Iran, Taipei, Jamaica and Moldova. Cuba was a sponsor country for the first time.

41 Russian regions participated in the event. The newcomer regions were Astrakhan, Volgograd and Kemerovo, the Republic of Mari El, Khakassia and Sakha (Yakutia).They showcased the best of what the Russian Federation has to offer, and in particular the Komi Republic was announced as a sponsor region.

B2B Marketing Events

The highlight of the expo was a series of exclusive B2B marketing events for the exhibitors. These included roundtable meetings between leading Russian tour operators and international organisations, as well as a sales-call service and bespoke workshops by industry professionals. One of the stand-out events was the B2B Speed Dating service, where industry specialists were granted the opportunity to have back-to-back, individual meetings at the exhibitors’ stands. The roundtable discussions facilitated productive exchanges on a diverse range on topics including international security, charter flights and the simplification of tourist visa procedures for Russian citizens.

The Hosted Buyer Program

Another highlight of the expo was the hotly anticipated Hosted Buyer Program 2019, where high-level buyers, tour operators and travel agencies from 18 Russian regions held meetings with exhibitors. An innovative new matchmaking system, debuted at the 25th edition of the OTDYKH Leisure Fair, allowed exhibitors to schedule meetings in advance in a specially designated business area, resulting in 430 meetings over the course of the event.

The Business Program

The OTDYKH Leisure Fair 2019 featured a comprehensive business program, comprised of 45 business events with over 150 speakers and almost 2,700 participants, cementing its status as a leading industry platform in Russia. Talks centred on the trends currently dominating the tourism market, and how they are projected to develop in the near future.

On the first day of the event, discussions focused on the development of domestic and inbound tourism in Russia. Other prominent seminars explored the role of creative industries, the growing popularity of folkloric culture and the impact of digital technology in the travel industry. On the second day talks centred on the rise of medical tourism in Russia, IT solutions in travel and new trends in business tourism. On the final day the topics were event tourism (such as the 2018 FIFA World Cup) and the development of industrial tourism in the Arctic. An important part of the program on the third day was the discussion on ecotourism, and the increasingly relevant role of ecology in tourism.

The final day of the expo ended on a creative note with a video competition entitled “Hello Russia, My Homeland!” in which a record number of videos were entered, showing the best tourist attractions from across the Russian Federation.

The next OTDYKH Leisure Fair will take place on 8-10 September 2020, at the Expocentre in Moscow, Russia.

MEDIA CONTACT: Anna Huber, Project Manager, Travel Exhibitions Division, Euroexpo Exhibitions & Congress Development GmbH, Tel.: + 43 1 230 85 35 – 36, Fax: + 43 1 230 85 35 – 50/51, a.huber@euroexpo-vienna.com , http://www.euro-expo.org/

The Seychelles captures the Israeli market at Trade and Media Events

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Successful marketing mission held by the Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) and its local trade partners has showcased the Seychelles Islands’ pristine beauty to the Israeli city of Tel- Aviv during a two-day event on September 11 and 12, 2019.

The event opened with a press meeting held in Tel Aviv Centre, where approximately 18 tourism journalists and leading bloggers were present.

During her presentations to the press Mrs. Sherin Francis, STB Chief Executive elaborated on the privilege of having Seychelles as one of the preferred destination to the Israeli market.

On his part the Air Seychelles CEO, Mr. Remco Althuis, talked about the upcoming flights between Seychelles and Tel Aviv while STB Director for Europe, Bernadette Willemin, provided detailed information about the diverse offers the Seychelles has for visitors through a destination presentation.

Mrs. Francis also took the opportunity to discuss the Seychelles’ close-to-heart ecological positions and green policies. Her interventions also updated the press about the Seychelles debt to nature swap as well as the Blue Bond project- a pioneering financial instrument designed to support sustainable marine and fisheries projects,- whilst sharing the initiatives taking place in the Seychelles in terms of environment conservation.

The press meeting was followed by trade presentations and workshop at The Setai Hotel located in the Old City of Jaffa.

This event, was attended by the Seychelles Honorary Consul of Israel, Mr. Arie Goldstein, as well as 120 participants representing 55 different companies made up of Tour Operators, Travel Agents from both Free Independent Travellers (FTI) and Meetings, events and Incentive Travel Market (MICE).

STB Chief Executive once again emphasised the honour of counting the Israelis amongst the regular visitors in Seychelles, whilst highlighting the fact that the Air Seychelles flights will provide regular connections to the Islands increasing the opportunities for more visitors to enjoy the beauty of our pristine destination.  

Commenting on the importance of the Tel-Aviv marketing mission, Mrs. Francis mentioned that whilst a handful of agents and tour operators in Tel- Aviv were already selling the Seychelles, most had not yet seen its potential and now were keen on promoting it.

“We have received a very warm welcome from our partners in Tel- Aviv, from the feedback received on grounds, we are confident that, this two-day event has been an additional support to our marketing efforts to promoting the destination. We have definitely highlighted the philosophy of Seychelles as a pristine and green- must visit destination for one to tick on their bucket list,” said Mrs. Francis 

Aside from presentations by the different local partners present, exhibiting their products and companies, there were also business-to-business workshops, which gave way to one on one meetings.

During the two-day event, a dinner cocktail was held by the STB, where partners were given a chance to network with invitees.

The STB delegation and partners seized the opportunity, whilst in Tel Aviv, to set up appointments with key market players; there were meetings with major tour operators as well as Ethiopian airlines and Turkish airlines.

Mrs. Francis further mentioned her satisfaction and gratitude to the participating companies who collaborated with the STB team to make the event a success.

The trade partners consisted of DMCS including Creole Travel Service, Mason’s Travel and 7-Degree South and hotels establishments namely Four Seasons Seychelles, Frégate Island Private, Avani Seychelles, The H Resort Beau Vallon Beach, Constance Hotels & Resorts and Raffles were present to market their services for the two days. The team were also accompanied by the national airline Air Seychelles with representative Christine Ozouf.

Aside from Mrs. Francis, the STB Team was represented by Ms. Bernadette Willemin – Regional Director for Europe and Ms. Monette Rose Director for Italy, Turkey, Greece and the Mediterranean.

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

2019 Anguilla Cup upgraded to the Caribbean’s only ITF Grade 3 Tournament

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The Anguilla Tourist Board is pleased to announce that the fourth annual Anguilla Cup, an exhilarating week of outstanding tennis, will once again take place at the beautiful Anguilla Tennis Academy (ATA) from November 4 – 9, 2019. Sanctioned by the International Tennis Federation (ITF), the Anguilla National Tennis Association, (ANTA), and the Central American and Caribbean Tennis Confederation (COTECC), this exciting tournament is part of the Caribbean Cup Tennis Series, organized by Sports Travel Experts, and hosted by the Anguilla Tourist Board, the Department of Sports and the Social Security Board.

The ITF has upgraded this year’s tournament to a Grade 3 event, the first and only event of its kind in the Caribbean.  The decision was made based on the recommendation of the ITF Supervisor, who gave a glowing report on the outstanding facilities and smooth organization of the 2018 event.

The upgrade will enable the tournament to attract more participants, playing at a higher level, for a bigger and more prestigious event. Anguilla has also been designated as the first Caribbean Cup Training Center for camps, and Sports Travel Experts will begin coordinating world-class coaches to train players in the region at the Anguilla Tennis Academy.

“We made a commitment to The Anguilla Cup as we believe that it delivers on all our strategic objectives — growing our visitor arrivals, expanding our tourism product, dispersing our tourism dollars and empowering our local athletic communities,” said the Hon. Cardigan Connor, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism. “We congratulate all those involved with staging the event, and in particular the hard-working team at the ATA, as your combined efforts have resulted in our event being upgrading to a Grade 3 Tournament,” he concluded.

This year’s Anguilla Cup is comprised of the Junior Under 14 and Under 18 ITF championships from November 4 – 9; Adult championships from November 6 – 9; a world-class exhibition match with two leading tennis pros; and a free tennis clinic with the pros for young Anguillian enthusiasts. As in previous years, the possibility of a wild card entry into the professional women’s year-end Master Final Tournament in Curacao at the end of November is an added incentive to attract more and better U-18 women players to the event.

The official tournament hotels are the CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa and the Anguilla Great House, located just a few kilometers from the Anguilla Tennis Academy in Blowing Point. Special packages are available for both players and spectators, with additional options available at select properties on island.

The tournament week is the result of a partnership between the Anguilla Tourist Board (ATB), tournament management Sports Travel Experts, the Anguilla National Tennis Association, (ANTA), the Anguilla Tennis Academy (ATA), the Ministry of Tourism’s Department of Sports and the Social Security Board. 

The Caribbean Cup circuit currently includes Anguilla, Jamaica, Cayman, Barbados, Antigua & Barbuda, the US Virgin Islands, Curacao and St. Vincent & the Grenadines. Anguilla will take her turn as the Caribbean’s tennis capital when she welcomes players, coaches and their families from around the globe, to participate in the 2019 Anguilla Cup. 

Please visit the tournament website – anguillacup.com – for registration information and how you can come out and experience a week of spectacular beaches and world-class tennis. For information on Anguilla, please visit the official website of the Anguilla Tourist Board; follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/AnguillaOfficial; Instagram: @Anguilla_Tourism; Twitter: @Anguilla_Trsm, Hashtag: #MyAnguilla.

About Anguilla

Tucked away in the northern Caribbean, Anguilla is a shy beauty with a warm smile. A slender length of coral and limestone fringed with green, the island is ringed with 33 beaches, considered by savvy travelers and top travel magazines, to be the most beautiful in the world.

Anguilla lies just off the beaten path, so it has retained a charming character and appeal. Yet because it can be conveniently reached from two major gateways: Puerto Rico and St. Martin, and by private air, it’s a hop and a skip away.

Romance? Barefoot elegance? Unfussy chic? And untrammeled bliss?   Anguilla is Beyond Extraordinary.

About the Anguilla Cup

The Anguilla Cup is a part of the Caribbean Cup Tennis Series, created by Karl Hale – CEO of Sports Travel Experts and Tournament Director of the Rogers Cup in Toronto.  The event is sanctioned by the International Tennis Federation (ITF), the Anguilla National Tennis Association (ANTA), and the Central American and Caribbean Tennis Confederation (COTECC), sponsored by the Anguilla Tourist Board, and hosted at the Anguilla Tennis Academy, with support provided by Anguilla’s Department of Sports in the Ministry of Tourism and the Social Security Board.

About the Caribbean Cup Tennis Series

The CCTS features 10 events in 9 countries throughout the Caribbean. The 2019 Circuit will feature events in Antigua, Anguilla, Barbados, the Bahamas, the Cayman Islands, Curacao, Jamaica, the U.S. Virgin Islands and St. Vincent. Each event is centered on Local Youth Development, Caribbean Travel and Charity, and each tournament offers participants a chance to challenge top ranked players from around the globe.

Media Contact:

Shellya Rogers-Webster

Manager, Corporate Affairs

Anguilla Tourist Board

Shellya.Webster@atb.ai

“Fall” in Love with Malta and The Exciting Festivals and Events

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Why Malta in the Fall? In addition to the beautiful weather, azure waters, and being less crowded in the off season, Malta offers a diverse range of festivals and events that celebrate their friendly, historic, and vibrant culture. Witness the Valletta cityscape lit up during the annual Notte Bianca, admire the timeless vintage cars at the Malta Classic, and be a spectator at the world famous Rolex Middle Sea Race, a yacht race which starts and finishes in the historic Grand Harbour of Valletta.

Highlights of Malta’s Fall Calendar 2019:

40th Rolex Middle Sea Race  – October 19-26, 2019

Offshore Yacht Racing Event Starting & Finishing in the Historic Grand Harbour in Valletta. The Rolex Middle Sea Race is once again proving to have magnetic appeal, with 58 yachts from 17 countries so far registered for the 2019 race. The Rolex Middle Sea Race, celebrating its 40th edition this year, is one of offshore yacht racing top 3 events alongside the Rolex Fastnet and the Rolex Sydney to Hobart races.  This race starts and finishes in the dramatic Grand Harbour of Malta, a sun baked Mediterranean Island with strong British links and loads of history. Flights via EasyJet and Air Malta serve the island from major European airports and internal travel is easy by taxi.

Notte Bianca – October 5, 2019

Spectacular Celebration Lights up the Valletta Cityscape Every October

Notte Bianca is Malta’s biggest annual arts and culture festival. One night every October, Notte Bianca lights up the Valletta cityscape with a spectacular celebration that is open to the public free of charge. Festival-goers can expect to experience the very best in music, dance, theatre, visual arts, literary events, as well as an exploration into the emerging world of new and digital arts. State palaces and museums open their doors to delight patrons with visual art exhibitions and theatre performances. All of Valletta, from City Gate to Fort St. Elmo, comes alive on Notte Bianca, guaranteeing a memorable night that truly holds something for everyone.

Birgufest – October 11-13, 2019

Celebrate One of Malta’s Oldest and Most Historic Sites: Birgu

Birgufest 2019 is a celebration of culture and art, which will be taking place in Birgu (also known as Vittoriosa), one of Malta’s oldest and most historic cities. The city is set adjacent to the majestic Grand Harbour and is considered by many as one of the most spectacular and picturesque locations on the island. What started off as a few small events has now developed into a larger program spanning over a whole weekend. Visitors can now enjoy different experiences such as, historical reenactments and dinner by candlelight in the beautiful town square. All the streets and houses are lit up with candles, chandeliers hang in the streets, and music ruminates throughout the winding pathways. 

Malta Classic 2019 – October 10-13, 2019

Malta Classic welcomes car enthusiasts, visitors and families to the historic island of Malta to discover some of the world’s most elegant and sought-after classic cars

Malta Classic 2019 will take place over four-days comprising three exhilarating events: the Malta Classic Hill Climb, the Malta Classic Concours d’Elegance by Mdina Glass, and the Malta Classic Grand Prix. 

Traditions: Wine, Olive Oil & Honey 2019 – September 21, 2019

Wine, olive oil, beehives and honey wax displays – all the ingredients needed for a delectable evening

Back for a third year, this evening event will offer visitors to the village, a roasted pig, other local foods, wine, and honey tasting activities, olive oil delicacies including a chance to try olive oil flavored ice cream, as well as the very popular traditional sweet honey pastries.

Festival Mediterranea 2019 – October 19-November 30, 2019 

Immerse in the Culture and Arts of the Idyllic Island of Gozo

Festival Mediterranea is an annual celebration of culture let off at the very heart of the Mediterranean, on the history-laden island of Gozo. Organized by Teatru Astra, the festival uncovers the island in all its cultural and artistic aspects. Festival Mediterranea offers all that Gozo boasts of in the cultural and artistic arena. The highlight of the festival is undoubtedly the spectacular presentation of Giuseppe Verdi’s Il Trovatore, with a double representation on the 24th and 26th October 2019. Other events feature classical and symphonic music and vocal recitals. The festival offers a program of events that even cover the wealth of archaeology and history that forms Gozo’s heritage. And the backdrop to this is Gozo’s sheer, natural beauty in warm autumn. 

Pride Week 2019 – September 6 & 15, 2019

Celebrate Pride in the No. 1 European LGBTQ travel destination   

Malta has been awarded an outstanding 90% in recognition of the laws, policies and lifestyles of the LGBTQ community out of a total of 49 European Countries. With over 15 events planned in every category including fashion, art, film and sports, LGBTQ travelers will be sure to have an amazing time.

Go Sport Attard 5K  – September 15, 2019

The Malta Marathon Organizing Committee and the Ħ’Attard Local Council will be organizing the ‘Go Sport Attard 5k.’

ŻEJT IŻ-ŻEJTUN 2019 – September 29, 2019

Join the city of Żejtun as they celebrate the start of the olive-picking season and pressing of oil through this annual festival

The focal point of the festivity is the blessing of olives carted or carried by local farmers, followed by pressing and free tasting of Maltese ftajjar dressed in freshly pressed olive oil.

Kite and Wind Festival – October 18- 20, 2019

Reach out for the sky, as kites of all shapes and sizes surf on favorable winds

The festival will be led by traditional and professional kite masters. The Gozo International Kite Festival is a unique event, promising high-flying fun for children and adults.

Halloween at Valletta Waterfront – October 26, 27, & 31, 2019

Tricks and Treats Guaranteed at the Valletta Waterfront this Halloween

Spooky maritime fun is expected for Halloween. The little ones will have the opportunity for trick and treating amidst the spooky décor and roaming children’s animation.

See the full calendar 2019 Maltese events and festivals here.

About Malta

The sunny islands of Malta, in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, are home to a most remarkable concentration of intact built heritage, including the highest density of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in any nation-state anywhere.  Valletta built by the proud Knights of St. John is one of the UNESCO sites and the European Capital of Culture for 2018. Malta’s patrimony in stone ranges from the oldest free-standing stone architecture in the world, to one of the British Empire’s most formidable defensive systems, and includes a rich mix of domestic, religious and military architecture from the ancient, medieval and early modern periods. With superbly sunny weather, attractive beaches, a thriving nightlife and 7,000 years of intriguing history, there is a great deal to see and do.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Malta Tourism Authority

Michelle Buttigieg

Tel: (212) 213-0944

Fax: (212) 213-0938

E-mail: michelle-margaret.buttigieg@visitmalta.com

MTA US Editorial Contact:

The Bradford Group

Karen Hoffman/ Bianca Pappas

Tel: (212) 447-0027

Fax: (212) 725 8253

E-mail: info@brafordglobalmarketing.com

Gabriela Reyes

Public Relations Coordinator 

The Bradford Group

347 Fifth Ave. Suite 1205

New York, New York 10016

T (212) 447-0027

F (212) 725-8253

gabrielar@bradfordglobalmarketing.com

Seychelles golfers en route for the first Seychelles Tourism Board Golf Competition

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Some 40-golf enthusiast have registered to feature in the first ever golf event scheduled for Saturday July 13, 2019 at the Constance Lemuria Praslin.

The event organised by the Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) in collaboration with various local and international partners sends promises of success as the finishing touches are being completed by the organising team. 

This event will be used as qualifying rounds for the PRO-AM during the MCB Tour Championship on December 4, 2019 at Constance Lemuria in Praslin, which will open 5 spots for golf enthusiasts.

The STB Golf Competition 2019, which will be an 18-hole individual Stableford, meaning the player’s aim would be to have the highest score, will be the chance of a lifetime for local players of all ages bearing handicap 18 for men and 20 for ladies to win a place, which will qualify them to rub shoulders with Professional golf players from around the world in the December event.

Amongst the various partners supporting the event features Japanese founded leader in premium golf products Honma Golf, locally based partners including Constance Lemuria Resort, Seychelles one and only golf resort, local brewery Seybrew and Shreeji Group- multi-serviced and diversified business group.

Speaking about the upcoming STB Golf Competition, STB Chief Executive Mrs. Sherin Francis mentioned that we are looking forward to hosting the first STB branded competition; she also stated her satisfaction to have received such positive feedbacks to the invitation sent to local golfers.

“As we market the destination and invite golfers around the world to come enjoy our perfect sceneries, we are also glad to be bringing the STB golf competition on our calendar of events for local participants to enjoy. The response from the golfing community and our partners have been overwhelming. We are looking forward to the Saturday events to welcome the 5 golfers to represent the STB family in the December competition,” said Mrs. Francis.

On her part Mrs. Gopi Dubasia, the Shreeji Group representative stated her excitement to be part of the event.

“The Shreeji Group is proud to Partner with STB in hosting the first national corporate Golf Competition. We are delighted to support our domestic players to be qualified for the second Indian Ocean Swing event in December with the presence of International Tee-Players. Cheers to the new beginnings and new horizons!” said Mrs. Dubasia.     

Seychelles will be welcoming the second edition of the MCB Tour Championship in December this year.

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

Summer Daze Malta set for another iconic Music Festival

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Some of the world’s biggest pop acts and DJs are locked in for the second ever edition of Summer Daze Malta. The newly expanded event will take place on August 11-17 at various venues across the idyllic Mediterranean island.

With the event in collaboration with Creamfields and BBC Radio 1 Dance, house duo The Martinez Brothers kick off proceedings on August 11 with a performance in partnership with well-known Malta clubbing brand GRINGOS.

Meanwhile the main events will take place over August 14-15 at the Ta Qali National Park – which hosted Rita Ora last year – with underground legends in the form of Paul Kalkbrenner, Loco Dice, Green Velvet, BBC Radio 1’s Monki and local favorite Carl Bee all scheduled to play.

The following day sees the line-up shift towards more pop-focused acts, with the likes of David Guetta, Tyga, James Arthur, Danny Howard, Alle Farben, Tenishia and a slew of local artists all making an appearance. In collaboration with VisitMalta Events, tickets for both main events are entirely free.

The following day, Christian ‘Bobo’ Vieri, the former Italy international striker, will be soundtracking a sunset pool party at the Medasia beach club, while there is also a Vida Loca showcase at the island’s UNO nightclub.

Summer Daze will return to UNO the following day for the closing event, with house music royalty Roger Sanchez set to headline alongside Miami-based DJ Kristen Knight, for a party in association with ZIGGY.

Building on the success of its maiden year, Summer Daze Malta has stepped things up for 2019, with a serious line-up of local and international talent set to soundtrack parties in multiple locations across the island.

Carlo Micallef, Deputy CEO & Chief Marketing Officer Malta Tourism Authority, stated: “Over the past 3 years the Mediterranean Islands of Malta and Gozo have managed to develop and grow a year round calendar of top quality events to rival any other tourism destination in Europe. Famous international artists are being attracted to Malta to join Maltese counterparts in first rate, music, cultural, contemporary arts, gastronomic and sports festivals that are a spectacle to attend and enjoy or even join in. The hot bright summer months in Malta lend themselves brilliantly to music and sea sport events of international repute and the Summer Daze Malta Festival is firmly establishing itself as a highlight in Malta’s Summer.”

Michelle Buttigieg, North American Representative for the Malta Tourism Authority, said: “We are excited to announce the second year of Summer Daze Malta with some of the world’s biggest pop acts and DJs performing, this should be a huge draw for millennials from the US & Canada. This year the festival will attract even more North American Tourists.”

Check https://www.visitmalta.com/en/events-archive for the full calendar of events

To find out more about Summer Daze Malta, go to: Facebook | Instagram | Website

About Malta

The sunny islands of Malta, in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, are home to a most remarkable concentration of intact built heritage, including the highest density of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in any nation-state anywhere.  Valletta built by the proud Knights of St. John is one of the UNESCO sites and was the European Capital of Culture for 2018. Malta’s patrimony in stone ranges from the oldest free-standing stone architecture in the world, to one of the British Empire’s most formidable defensive systems, and includes a rich mix of domestic, religious and military architecture from the ancient, medieval and early modern periods. With superbly sunny weather, attractive beaches, a thriving nightlife and 7,000 years of intriguing history, there is a great deal to see and do. www.visitmalta.com



Media Contacts:

Malta Tourism Authority

Michelle Buttigieg

Tel: (212) 213-0944

Fax: (212) 213-0938

E-mail: michelle-margaret.buttigieg@visitmalta.com

MTA US Editorial Contact

The Bradford Group

Karen Hoffman/ Bianca Pappas

Tel: (212) 447-0027

Fax: (212) 725 8253

E-mail: info@bradfordglobalmarketing.com



LB Alliance joins African Tourism Board: Some Unsolicited Advice

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Chiriga Moore, founder and owner of LB Alliance in San Francisco, California joined the African Tourism Board today.

Moore said:  “Increased Tourism by members of the African Diaspora has birthed travel and event companies seeking opportunities to connect with black-owned businesses throughout Africa. Joining the African Tourism board is an additional resource to help our allies learn how their events contribute to the GDP, help to highlight the value of Africa’s rich arts & culture scene and bridge gaps of inequality across the globe, empowering all of us to blossom together!”

Reading Chriga Moore’s new year resolution published on her “Unsolicited Advice” blog explains her commitment:

1. I will continue to advocate for people of color in the meetings and event industry.
2. I will volunteer to support other event planners
3. I will network, build and persevere because we matter and we are good at what we do!
4. I will redirect my energy towards doing business as CULTIVATE EVENT ARTISTRY & DESIGN. (www.cultivate2sustain.com),
5. I will stay determined to #LivLife in more ways than one.

Juergen Steinmetz, interim chairman of the African Tourism Board says:  “I was fascinated by Chiriga’s vision and knowledge. I agree with our VP Cuthbert Ncube when I say that she will bring a great addition to our organization.”

Founded in 2018, the African Tourism Board an association that is internationally acclaimed for acting as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from the African region.

More information and to join visit www.africantourismboard.com 

MEDIA CONTACT:

TravelMarketingNetwork

954 Lexington Ave. #1037

New York, NY 10021 USA

PH: (+1) 718-374-6816

marketing@travelmarketingnetwork.com   

IMEX in Frankfurt’s five steps to igniting imagination and powering up business results

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IMEX in Frankfurt returns on 21-23 May, bringing together business event professionals from around the world to meet and do business. Planners and exhibitors alike can also tap into the rich thread of imagination ideas and activations running through the show, forming IMEX’s Talking Point for 2019. Here are five ways attendees can ignite their imaginations and power up their business results at IMEX in Frankfurt next week:

1. Collaborate and co-create – IMEX is always the living embodiment of the phrase: ‘Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.’ This year planners can network and learn with their peers at one of the many events designed for specific audiences in the meetings and business events industry: Exclusively Corporate, Association Day, Agency Directors Forum.

The Policy Forum brings policymakers together with influential industry leaders to engage national and local governments in the advancement of our industry. This year’s red hot theme: Placemaking.

2. Think and act inclusively – Gender equality, female empowerment and diversity are the focus of She Means Business, a conference created in partnership with tw tagungswirtschaft celebrating the role of women in business and events. Anne Kjaer Riechert, Co-founder & Managing Director, ReDI School of Digital Integration, will deliver the keynote (open to all EduMonday attendees) and senior executives from organisations – including PWC, Deutsche Bank and Lufthansa HR Management, Eurometropole de Strasbourg, Rwanda Convention and Melbourne Convention – are among the speakers.

Diversity and inclusion sessions and speakers are also woven throughout the four-day IMEX education program. New for 2019 is PCMA’s #Iamremarkable workshop on EduMonday. Designed to tackle ‘gender-related modesty norms and glass ceilings’ and led by a team from Google, it will empower everyone taking part to speak openly about their accomplishments, in the workplace and beyond.

Not forgetting the industry leaders and innovators of the future, the IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forum brings together budding business event professionals to gain expert insight into the meetings industry, learning from and connecting with inspirational industry experts and fellow students.

3. Become more sustainable – Keep a look out for the Imagination Wall in the new Discovery Zone (Hall 9), showcasing innovations in sustainability, the IMEX team’s favorite ‘green’ household products and examples of the green products and materials used at IMEX shows. Attendees can also be inspired by huge strides in environmentally friendly practices – exhibitors who’ve signed up to IMEX’s new Sustainability Pledge, plus nominees for the IMEX-EIC Innovation in Sustainability Award.

“Imagine you could change the world, your country or your city with just one wish. Tell us what it would be?” Attendees are challenged to become change-makers by answering this call and pinning their wishes on the Wishing Tree, found in leafy Central Park, part of the Hall 9 Discovery Zone.

4. Unleash creativity – The sights – and smells! – of the new Discovery Zone are designed to prompt planners to question the conventional and explore fresh approaches to business meetings and events, with a strong emphasis on ‘experiential’. Expect fire-infused magic tricks, Painting Parties, holograms, dancing robots and a piano… played using your feet. Parts of the show are also infused with a new IMEX scent, designed to uplift and inspire.

EduMonday on May 20 at Kap Europa will showcase its own mini ‘Imagination Zone’, where attendees can tap into their artistic streak at a painting party or unleash some fancy moves at a silent disco to close out the day.

Many of the learning sessions at the Inspiration Hub – the show’s learning powerhouse – focus on the topic of imagination and creativity, offering a wide range of insights delivered by experts from both within and outside the global business events industry.

5. Understand the power of technology – Technology can help to drive innovation but many planners question ‘where do I begin?’ Participating in one of the technology-driven learning sessions or visiting one of the many event tech suppliers is a good place to start. 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 in Hall 9. New for this year is the Red Lab, where experts from outside the events sector will deliver fresh perspectives on topics such as ‘Incorporating VR, AR and AI into learning’, ‘Virtual screens and the future of workplace design’, ‘How can data transform the event industry?’ and ‘Are service robots an answer to the challenges in the meetings industry?’.

At the dedicated technology area on the show floor in Hall 8, planners can meet suppliers, experience the latest innovations and gain valuable advice – The Meeting Pool returns to head up the TECHknowledge area of the show floor, offering bite-size tech tutorials on topics including how to boost personal and professional productivity, and how technology can drive sustainability.

IMEX in Frankfurt takes place 21-23 May 2019.

MEDIA CONTACTS: Emma Ward, emma.ward@imexexhibitions.com ; Chris Lewis, chris.lewis@imexexhibitions.com