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The Valletta NYE celebrations are back, featuring The Travellers and many more live in concert

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Featuring The Travellers and many more live in concert

One of the most anticipated events of the calendar, the Valletta National New Year’s Eve Celebrations, are back to usher in the New Year in the capital city.

The celebrations will once again take place in St. George’s Square with the main stage hosting leading names from the island. The night will kickstart with local band Ozzy Lino and the Candy Moths, followed by top local artists Kevin Paul, Gaia and Kurt Calleja. THE TRAVELLERS will be headlining the event with their unique and original sound.

The event will be hosted by Nate, Frank and Rossi from Vibe FM who will also be taking the audience into the countdown with a mash-up of the best dance anthems of 2019 together with stage special effects and fireworks to welcome the New Year. Finally, up and coming DJ DREY will be ending the night with an energetic and uplifting set.

Valletta Cultural Agency Chairman Jason Micallef said that “the New Year’s Eve celebrations are part of a vast program planned by the VCA for the festive period in Valletta. Last week we switched on the Christmas lights in the capital’s main streets, switched on a real Christmas tree in St George’s Square for the first time, and a Nativity Scene in Piazza de Valette, among other initiatives for the festive season in the Capital”.

Valletta Mayor Alfred Zammit said that “this is one of the Local Council’s favorite activities because it gives the opportunity to Maltese families to enjoy Christmas and the New Year in the communal spirit in Valletta without spending much”. He said that “Valletta should be the natural choice of those who would like to have fun this New Year’s Eve.”

This event is being organized by G7 events following a call for Cultural Partnership Agreements by the Valletta Cultural Agency within the Ministry for Justice, Culture and Local Government. The Valletta Local Council shall also be collaborating with the organizers of the event.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Valletta Cultural Agency Contact

Tele: (+356) 2124 2018

Email: info@vca.gov.mt

MTA US Editorial Contact

The Bradford Group

Amanda Benedetto/ Gabriela Reyes

Tel: (212) 447-0027

Fax: (212) 725 8253

E-mail: info@bradfordglobalmarketing.com

Gabriela Reyes

Account Manager 

The Bradford Group

347 Fifth Ave. Suite 1205

New York, New York 10016

T (212) 447-0027

F (212) 725-8253

gabrielar@bradfordglobalmarketing.com

www.bradfordglobalmarketing.com

Malta launches key focuses for 2020

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As the end of the year approaches, Malta is looking towards what’s in store for 2020. The archipelago combined of Malta, Gozo and Comino will place huge emphasis on four key areas: gastronomy, sustainability, wellness and the launch of a new trail booklet. With an abundance of activities and over 300 days of beautiful sunny weather a year, Malta is firmly placing itself on the map as a must visit destination for 2020.

GASTRONOMY

Malta Launches Year of Gastronomy with a Specially Crafted Maltese Afternoon Tea in Collaboration with Corinthia Hotels

Malta’s archipelago has a burgeoning culinary scene that melts Italian, North African and Arab influences into one giant pot, which has quickly established its position as one of Europe’s leading culinary destinations. The island is bringing the gastronomy scene to the forefront of the travel conversation in 2020 and will mark the start of the year with the launch of the first Maltese Afternoon Tea in partnership with Corinthia Hotels.

The Maltese Afternoon Tea

Imagined in collaboration with Malta Tourism Authority, Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa’s Executive Chef Stefan Hogan has brought to life the first-ever Maltese Afternoon Tea. The delicate savoury and sweet dishes highlight the unique flavours of the archipelago’s culinary scene. Diners can expect mouth-watering combinations of fig and fennel seed and orange blossom and cumin in a selection of tartlets, freshly prepared Ftira bread, scones, pastries and miniature cakes. Available to book and taste in Malta, Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa, food lovers can revisit holiday memories and tastes of Malta back home in the UK. Already launched and available any time, the Maltese Afternoon Tea is €22.50 per person or €26.00 per person including a flute of Cassar de Maltes. Reservations: +356 2544 2501 or e-mail on events.palace@corinthia.com

The Mediterranean Culinary Academy

The Mediterranean Culinary Academy (MCA), based in Valletta, Malta, is one of the world’s leading food academies. The MCA is focused on giving its students the technical abilities to excel in any culinary role – whether they are home cooks or professionals, but the academy also hosts events for travellers looking to hone their culinary skills. Junior chef parties, adult pasta making, bake-off challenges and the art of the aperitif – there are a range of dedicated events and courses perfect for food loving visitors keen to return home with a bounty of new gastronomical skills. https://www.mcamalta.com/

Taste of Historical Malta

Heritage Malta is introducing a new concept to the archipelago. Drawing on the flavours of the island’s past, travellers have the opportunity to taste Maltese and Mediterranean history in an immersive and inspiring setting. A professional team of curators and chefs come together to recreate the paupers’ frugal snacks, the corsair’s celebratory dinner, the Grand Master’s wine list, the inquisitor’s lent dinner and the Merchant’s decadent dessert, bringing back these traditional flavours to the modern-day world. http://tastehistory.org/

The Gastro Trail

The Gastro Trail has inspired many travellers since its inception in 2018 and has now been included in a booklet that showcases all of Malta Tourism Authority’s themed trails. The food map details some of the island’s very best culinary experiences whether it be the best place to try the abundance of fresh seafood, sample traditional Maltese savoury pastries that are baked throughout the night, meet independent gourmet artisans or simply where to see local cheese being created and buy the freshest ingredients. With the creation of the trail booklet, travellers can now check out a wide selection of all types of amazing experiences the archipelago has to offer, from diving to architecture to soft adventure, always with the handy food map in tow for mealtimes. https://www.maltauk.com/gastronomytrail/

The islands are known for authentic Maltese stews, fields of artichokes, traditionally made goat’s cheese, and some of the world’s most scenic salt pans. The archipelago’s ingredients and home-produced products stay true to the island’s ancient traditions and yet young chefs, award-winning wineries and sleek seaside restaurants maintain Malta’s position as one of Europe’s up and coming cosmopolitan food scenes.

SUSTAINIBILITY

Sustainability at the Heart of Malta’s 2020 Initiatives

The Maltese archipelago, combined of Malta, Gozo and Comino, is placing sustainability at the core of its 2020 travel and tourism activities. Malta will introduce initiatives which extends the islands endeavors to go green.

The island is popular with travellers looking for a culture fix, year-round sunshine and fantastic festivals and through new collaborations, launches and events, the sustainability of Malta’s diverse tourism offering is being placed at the forefront of its 2020 plans.

Sunx

Malta’s Ministry of Tourism has collaborated with Strong Universal Network (Sunx) to be the host of Sunx’s Global Centre for Climate Friendly Tourism in Malta. Sunx works with the travel and tourism sector to help them transform policies to climate friendly travel in line with the Paris agreement.

The Sunx Ambitions Registry, launching in 2020 will welcome countries, cities, communities and companies to voluntarily file plans to be part of the Sunx Paris 1.5-degree Community. This community will be invited to attend an annual Q1 ‘Think Tank’ event in Malta to reflect, discuss and share opportunities and challenges the travel and tourism sector may encounter in the lead up to 2050. https://www.facebook.com/konradmizzi/videos/2326281697451171/

Electric Cars

Malta will install 130 additional electric car charging points in the next few months, doubling the number that are currently installed. The addition of extra charging points continues to build on Malta’s vision to promote a sustainable ethos by encouraging the inhabitants to use electric cars instead of petrol. https://news.transport.gov.mt/schemes-for-greener-vehicles/

Eco-Friendly Festivals

Malta has become synonymous with world-class summer music festivals. This year, Summerdaze reduced the festival’s waste by at least 70% and through the efforts of selling re-usable cups the event also raised more than €45,000 for the Marigold Foundation. The successful initiative will be repeated in 2020

www.summerdazemalta.com

Next year’s Earth Garden, taking place 30 May – 2 June, will also be hosted in collaboration with support of the Ministry of Sustainable Development and the Ministry for the Environment, Sustainable Development and Climate Change. The festival will encourage the use of re-usable cups, create zero landfill and energy saving whilst festival-goers enjoy top-class international music acts. www.earthgarden.com.mt

WELLNESS

Relax, Rewind and Rejuvenate on the Island of Malta

Over 300 days of sunshine, picturesque coastlines and turquoise waters, farm to table gastronomy and a host of incredible hotels, the archipelago of Malta has all the ingredients to create the ultimate wellness holiday. The islands are being placed firmly on the health and wellness map in 2020 as a new and upcoming rejuvenating escape which is just a short three-hour flight from the UK. The archipelago is increasing its wellness offering with several new initiatives set for 2020.

Malta Collaborates with Paola’s Body Barre

Following a successful barre retreat hosted on Gozo earlier this year, the island will welcome one of the UK’s leading fitness brands, Paola’s Body Barre, for a fitness and wellness break in May 2020.  The London based barre class which has established a cult following of fitness lovers and celebs will bring the brand’s fitness technique to the wide skies and sun-drenched vistas of Malta. The five-day experience will offer a fitness escape teaching diverse disciplines to work on every single muscle of the body while enjoying the restorative qualities of the Mediterranean archipelago. Tickets will be available to purchase via https://www.paolasbodybarre.com/events

Corinthia Palace Hotel to launch new spa

2020 will also see the opening of the Corinthia Palace Hotel’s new spa. Since opening over 50 years ago, the hotel has become a quintessential part of Malta and the new Athenaeum Spa marks the final phase of a significant refurbishment of the property. The Athenaeum Spa has been created by world-renowned interior designers Goddard Littlefair, the team behind many leading spas and hotels worldwide. Inspired by the relaxed charm of the Mediterranean, its design evokes a sense of calm and serenity; it’s an oasis that’s flooded with natural light, ideal for relaxing in luxury. In partnership with leading skincare brand ESPA, the spa will offer luxury products, treatments and expertise, guided by a holistic philosophy to enhance both physical and emotional wellbeing.

Take to the sea to restore and heal

For those looking to relax and rewind with more action filled experiences, travellers can take to the seas to find out why Malta is known as Europe’s best diving destination. A new wellness trend set to take off in 2020 is about the restorative and healing properties of water and there is no better place to experience the trend in one of the most magnificent locations to experience a beautiful and calming underwater world. For beginners looking to gain their PADI certificate, Malta offers a range of diving courses which can be experienced during a week’s holiday. https://www.maltaqua.com/maqa/products/84/view

Malta Tourism Authority brings a slice of Mediterranean wellness to London

Back in London, the tourism authority will continue to spread the message of health and wellness as the destination sponsor of Life Lessons; a two-day festival that will present talks from leading wellness specialists, philosophers and authors. The festival will also offer live podcasts, spa treatments, fitness and meditation classes; aiming to provide guidance on sustainable living and ways to cope with stress. As well as hosting barre classes with Paola di Lanzo, the celebrity trainer who will lead May’s Barre retreat in Gozo, Malta will be giving out sustainable travel gifts and providing inspiration on the Archipelago’s rest and rejuvenation offerings. The two-day festival will be hosted at the Barbican Centre on 15- 16 February 2020.

Malta voted second best diving destination in the world

Malta has won second place in the ‘Destination of the Year’ category at the 2019 Diver Awards. Consistently named the best diving destination in Europe, Malta’s azure waters are renowned for their abundance of wildlife and incredible wrecks. In keeping with Malta’s wellness initiatives for 2020, learning to dive in Malta is a fantastic way to unwind and be immersed in the islands’ fascinating underwater world.

THE TRAIL BOOKLET

Putting Malta on the Map: Malta Tourism Authority Launches Trail Booklet

Malta is a truly diverse archipelago overflowing with historical relics, adrenaline-pumping sports, culinary traditions and bustling nightlife. Celebrating all the islands have to offer, the Malta Tourism Authority has launched its first comprehensive booklet of tourism trails to help travellers from all backgrounds get their island fix.

The booklet highlights the varied experiences up for grabs in the sunny archipelago, from family quad bike adventures in Gozo, sandy beaches ideal for sun-seekers in Mellieha Bay, to temples and burial sites to interest the biggest history-buff, and a contemporary nightlife scene to impress the biggest party-goers. The maps included within the booklet include:

The Gastronomy Trail – 300 days of sunshine a year and a constant supply of fresh seafood means visitors can enjoy world-class cuisine al-fresco throughout the year. With authentic bistros, sustainable restaurants and fine-dining options dotted across the archipelago, guests will get a taste of real Mediterranean fare.

The Family Trail – Malta is a family paradise, full to the brim with activities to keep little ones entertained and adults relaxed all day long. Younger children will love the planetarium at the Esplora Interactive Science Centre, while teens can play volleyball in the sand of Ramla Bay on Gozo.

Action and adventure – The craggy coastline and year-round sunshine has created an outdoor adventure playground for travellers. Harness-up and climb Malta’s famous Blue Grotto, learn the ropes as you sail between the islands, or hike the dramatic cliffs to discover Comino’s Blue Lagoon.

The Pilgrimage Trail – Believed to be the first country to be converted to Christianity, Malta is lucky to have retained a treasure-trove of religious sites, from quaint local churches and chapels, to the impressive Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, which dominates the skyline of Valletta.

Main attractions – For travellers looking to experience the highlights of Malta on their trip, the Main Attractions map provides a handy run-down of the islands’ best sightseeing experiences. Snap photos of the Grand Harbour from the vantage point of the Upper Barrakka Gardens or explore the ancient city walls of Cittadella in Gozo.

The Bar Trail – There are few things better than sipping a freshly-made cocktail in the evening sun. Visitors with a taste for tipple can explore the islands’ favourite watering holes and sip on local wine and ice-cold gin or mingle with the locals over a pint of beer.

The Film Trail – Hollywood producers have long had a fascination with Malta, and who can blame them? Travellers can get up close and personal with their favourite films and series, all within reach across the islands, as they explore the sets of Game of Thrones, Clash of the Titans and Gladiator.

The Dive Trail – Malta is a hotspot for divers and is consistently voted the second-best diving spot in the world. Clear blue waters and excellent visibility have created the ideal conditions to explore reefs and underground caverns, while Malta’s role in the Second World War can be viewed from a different lens, as divers discover historic wrecks across the archipelago.

About Malta

Malta is an archipelago in the central Mediterranean. Comprising three main islands – Malta, Comino and Gozo – Malta is known for its history, culture and temples dating back over 7,000 years. In addition to its fortresses, megalithic temples and burial chambers, Malta is blessed with nearly 3,000 hours of sunshine every year. Capital city Valletta was named European Capital of Culture 2018. Malta is part of the EU and 100% English speaking. The archipelago is famous for its diving, which attracts aficionados from around the world, whilst the nightlife and music festival scene attract a younger demographic of traveller. Malta is a short three and a quarter hour flight from the UK, with daily departures from all major airports across the country. www.maltauk.com

MEDIA CONTACT: Lauren Williams, Emily Olsen or Georgia Gogarty at malta@finnpartners.com or 020 7326 9880

WTM London 2019 to reveal the latest Global Travel Research

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The most current and thought provoking research into global and regional travel trends will be revealed over all three days at WTM London 2019 (Monday 4 November to Wednesday 6 November).

Research sessions commence in the WTM International Media Centre with ForwardKeys’ research into the UK outbound market. ForwardKeys, which analyze 17 million flights a day, will review the top 50 UK inbound flights, comparing them to last year and five years prior. The session takes place in the Press Conference Theatre (ME170) at 10.30 am on Monday 4 November and is preceded by the chance to network over tea, coffee and pastries during the WTM Press Breakfast at 10 am.

On Monday afternoon, World Tourism Cities Federation (WTCF), will present a session looking at China’s astonishing economic growth, which has created a brand new group of travellers. The session entitled, Booming Chinese Outbound Market, will have a panel of experts looking to discuss the aims at better understanding the Chinese traveller by sharing experiences and expertise from different angles.

It will take place on the dedicated Asia Inspiration Zone at 12.15 on Monday 4 November.

Tuesday morning will see Euromonitor International present a session entitled Megatrends Shaping the Future of Travel. Attendees will discover the latest developments for global travel and tourism performance. This session will give insights into upcoming trends in Europe, Asia, the Americas and the Middle East and Africa. The key focus is on major drivers, consumer behaviour and attitudes that are affecting travel companies’ bottom line. The research will prepare participants with the important knowledge to navigate the year ahead.

Lead by Euromonitor’s Head of Travel, Caroline Bremner, this session takes place at 11.30 am in the Press Conference Theatre.

First thing on Wednesday morning at 10 am in the Press Conference Theatre there is a session, which looks specifically at research around Sustainability in Tourism, conducted by MMGY and Destination International. The research is from a comprehensive survey issued to the global travel industry which looks at gaining insight into what companies are doing responsibly, how they are measuring the impact and what they hope to do moving forward.

This research ties in with World Responsible Tourism Day (WRTD), now the largest day of responsible tourism action in the world and focusing on responsible tourism efforts in the travel industry.

All research sessions in the Press Conference Theatre are available to all delegates.

As part of WTM London’s drive to hone the relevance of sessions, with a greater focus on the regions represented at the show, area-specific topics will be covered within the regional Inspiration Zones.

WTM London, WTM Portfolio Press & PR Lead, Julia Newbound, said: “Research is a crucial component of the WTM London seminar experience, with past sessions consistently standing-room-only. Companies big and small want to ensure they are ahead of the game, so attending these sessions to find out the latest research, trends and data is a great way to make sure they are not left behind.

“We have a mix of global research alongside dedicated country-focused sessions in our regional Inspiration Zones. These sessions will offer delegates even more ideas to implement in their businesses, further demonstrating that Ideas Arrive at 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

UNIGLOBE Travel International welcomes new location in India

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UNIGLOBE Travel International has added to its global network in India with the addition of UNIGLOBE SilverSky Travel, based in New Delhi.

Agency directors and entrepreneurs Dinesh Chauhan and Sanjay Sharma gained experience in the travel industry before venturing out to start their own agency in 2015. UNIGLOBE SilverSky now has two locations, in Delhi and Chennai, serving primarily business travellers. The team also has a dedicated team of vacation travel experts.

UNIGLOBE Travel South Asia will formally welcome UNIGLOBE SilverSky at the region’s 14th annual conference, to be held August 23-25 in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu. “Thanks to regional president Ritika Modi and her leadership team, India remains one of our strongest markets in South Asia and continues to attract top agencies. I am so pleased to welcome Dinesh and Sanjay to our growing family in the region,” says UNIGLOBE founder and CEO U. Gary Charlwood.

The UNIGLOBE Global Partner program is open to top-performing travel management companies in select markets. With the addition of this partner location, clients of UNIGLOBE Travel worldwide now have access to expertise from more than 50 UNIGLOBE locations across 27 cities in India.

About UNIGLOBE

Working globally to serve clients locally across more than 60 countries, UNIGLOBE Travel leverages current technologies and preferred supplier pricing to save clients time and money on business and vacation travel planning. Since 1981, corporate and leisure travelers have depended on the UNIGLOBE Travel brand to deliver services that go beyond expectations. UNIGLOBE Travel was founded by U. Gary Charlwood, CEO and has its world headquarters in Vancouver, B.C., Canada. Annual system-wide sales volume is $5.0+ billion.

Media Contact: media@uniglobe.com

UNIGLOBE Travel International expands in France with addition of CAP5 Voyages

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UNIGLOBE Travel is expanding service in France with the addition of prominent travel agency partner UNIGLOBE CAP5 Voyages.

Founded in 1976 in Armentières, France, UNIGLOBE CAP5 Voyages has grown into a leading travel agency in Northern France, with 15 offices and 4 implants. The family-owned company is led by chief executive officer Aurélien Rath and serves business, leisure and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Events) travellers.

“We see our partnership with UNIGLOBE as one that will allow us to grow and develop together as well as being able to work with likeminded agencies around the world,” says Rath.

Says UNIGLOBE founder and chief executive U. Gary Charlwood, “We are delighted to welcome UNIGLOBE CAP5 Voyages to our growing network of global partners. CAP5 is a significant addition to the UNIGLOBE family in Europe and will strengthen our collective service offerings to travellers to and from France.”

About UNIGLOBE

Working globally to serve clients locally across more than 60 countries, UNIGLOBE Travel leverages current technologies and preferred supplier pricing to save clients time and money on business and vacation travel planning. Since 1981, corporate and leisure travelers have depended on the UNIGLOBE Travel brand to deliver services that go beyond expectations. UNIGLOBE Travel was founded by U. Gary Charlwood, CEO and has its world headquarters in Vancouver, B.C., Canada.  Annual system-wide sales volume is $5.0+ billion.

Media contact: media@uniglobe.com

UNIGLOBE Travel expands Middle East service with the addition of two Global Partners

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UNIGLOBE Travel International has expanded its network in the Middle East with the addition of UNIGLOBE Bahwan Travels in Muscat, Oman, and UNIGLOBE Nasser Air Travel in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Founded more than 40 years ago, UNIGLOBE Bahwan Travel Group is a flagship company of Suhail Bahwan Group (Holding) LLC, the largest travel group in Oman. Under the direction of S.A. Gururaj, General Manager and deputy general manager Soumava Mukherjee, the travel management company serves more than 100,000 travellers annually and drives approximately 25 percent of the entire travel business in the Sultanate of Oman.

UNIGLOBE Nasser Air Travel is owned and operated by Nasser Abdulla Lootah Group. Founded in 1974, UNIGLOBE Nasser Air Travel has grown to serve more than 150 corporate clients and is one of the largest travel companies in the UAE. Under the leadership of general manager Sindhu Shaji, the team provides personalized service to clients in all areas of travel management.

“At UNIGLOBE we take pride in our strength at providing truly local service, industry knowledge and travel management expertise in each of the countries we serve,” says UNIGLOBE founder and chief executive officer U. Gary Charlwood. “I am delighted to welcome our newest family members in Oman and UAE. With their market intelligence and trusted relationships with airlines and travel suppliers in the Middle East, they offer great value to clients served by our global network of travel management companies.”

About UNIGLOBE
Working globally to serve clients locally across more than 60 countries, UNIGLOBE Travel leverages current technologies and preferred supplier pricing to save clients time and money on business and vacation travel planning. Since 1981, corporate and leisure travelers have depended on the UNIGLOBE Travel brand to deliver services that go beyond expectations. UNIGLOBE Travel was founded by U. Gary Charlwood, CEO and has its world headquarters in Vancouver, B.C., Canada.  Annual system-wide sales volume is $5.0+ billion.

Media contact: media@uniglobe.com

Seychelles among Best Honeymoon Destinations 2019 in Spain

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It is in a special ceremony held in Madrid earlier this May, that Grandvoyage.com travel agency delivered their awards to the best tourist destinations of 2019, which featured Seychelles nominated as best honeymoon destination.

For this first edition were selected four categories: Best big trip; Best emerging destination; Best honeymoon destination and Best resort, with six nominees per category.

A total of 11 countries were represented at the ceremony, which was attended by representatives and ambassadors of the different countries nominated, Seychelles was represented by the Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) Senior Marketing Executive based in Madrid, Gonzalez LLinás.

During the event, the cultural and tourist wealth of the different destinations were highlighted and each countries efforts for offering quality experience to travellers were rewarded.

The aspiration of GrandVoyage.com has been to focus on the demands of the traveller and as such ranking of this first edition has been a joint selection of the traveller’s choice and the jury votes.

The jury members consisted of prominent travel trade specialists including Pepa García- travel journalist, coordinator of Etheria Magazine and PhD Tourism Journalism, Álvaro Laforet- traveller, journalist and photographer collaborator in The New York Times, El Periódico, El Economista y Cope, Carol Peña (Miss Hedwig)- travel influencer. Oliver Vegas (Ovunno) – travel and lifestyle photographer and Arvin Abarca- CEO of Grandvoyage.com travel agency.

Seychelles landed the runner-up position, in the Best Honeymoon Destination category as it followed the Maldives and preceded Bali. The category also included Cuba, Thailand and Kenya and Tanzania, which reached the final round.

Speaking of latest achievement for the destination, Mrs.  Bernadette Willemin, STB Regional Director for Europe mentioned that this award reflects the hard work put by the STB team to sell Seychelles as a destination and the efforts of the tourism trade partners in Seychelles to uphold the promise of paradise.

“It remains a great opportunity for Seychelles as a destination to be placed on big platforms as Grandvoyage.com. This award not only confirms the jury’s impression of the destination but also our visitor’s endorsement that Seychelles is one of the best destinations there is in the world,” said Mrs. Willemin.

Formed in 2012 by Arvin Abarca, Grandvoyage.com aims at providing continuity to this platform to guide travellers on the best Great Travel destinations, as well as facilitate the process with personalized packages and recommendations through experts in each of the Destinations. At present has more than 15,000 satisfied travellers who endorse the brand as the largest online specialist in large trips in Spain.

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

Malta ranked No.1 European LGBTQ+ travel destination

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ILGA-Europe has announced that Malta has been ranked the number one travel destination on the Europe Rainbow Index 2019 for the fourth year running.

Out of a total of 49 European countries, Malta has been awarded an outstanding 90% in recognition of the laws, policies and lifestyles of the LGBTQ community on the Mediterranean island.

First launched in 2009, the European Rainbow Index monitors both the positive and negative impacts on the LGBTQ community and considers a wide range of factors including legal gender recognition, family and marital issues and rights to asylum. Each European country holds a position on the scale; 100% being the most accurate of respect for human rights and full equality in society, and 0% showing gross violation and discrimination.

2017 saw same sex marriage legalised in Malta, as well as the introduction of gender-neutral passports in 2018. The latter followed Parliament’s approval of the Gender Identity Act in 2015 and ensures people are able to have the gender they identify with officially recognised by the State.

Malta is proud of this recognition and has firmly positioned itself as a vibrant and welcoming destination for all. LGBTQ travel is always a strong focus for the country, and Malta has hosted LGBTQ festivals as well as sponsored and supported Pride both on the island and overseas.

Peter Vella, director UK & Ireland Malta Tourism Authority, said: “Malta has once again been showcased as the number one destination for LGBTQ travellers in Europe. The Maltese have a reputation for kindness and excellent hospitality, and this is absolutely reflected in how they welcome all travellers to the island, including the LGBTQ market. Malta holds a unique combination of traditional and historical culture with a contemporary and welcoming mindset towards LGBTQ travellers and our people continue to set an impressive example for other European countries to follow.”

Media Contact: Georgia Gogarty, Assistant Account Executive, The Brighter Group, Finn Partners, T: +44 (0)20 3917 5224

Diversify and digitize to attract younger Muslim travelers, GCC destinations told at ATM 2019

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Gulf hospitality operators looking to increase their share of the growing halal tourism market should diversify and digitize their offerings to suit younger generations of Muslim travelers, according to experts speaking at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2019.

With the GDP impact of Muslim travel in the Middle East on course to hit USD 36 billion by 2020 – up from USD 30.5 billion in 2017, according to Salam Standard – halal tourism represents a lucrative prospect for GCC hospitality brands. The segment is expected to create 1.2 million regional direct and indirect jobs by next year.

Representatives from Wego, DinarStandard, Shaza Hotels, Tripfez, Serendipity Tailormade, Mosafer C by Ummah Collaboration, holidayme, Orange County Visitors Association, Cape Town Tourism and Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) explored ways to tap into the growing segment of Gen Z and millennial travellers at the Global Halal Tourism Summit 2019, which took place on ATM’s Global Stage.

Mamoun Hmedan, Managing Director – MENA and India, Wego, said: “There are new destinations popping up out of nowhere. Developers are building properties from scratch, with halal-friendly offerings that are designed to appeal to younger generations of Muslim travelers.

“Wego does a lot of work on social media and collaborates with tourism boards to educate people about the opportunities available to them when they travel. We make sure we always have options for our customers to look for properties near to mosques or attractions that may be of interest to Muslim travelers.”

Approximately 41 percent of Muslim travelers’ global outbound spending comes from the UAE and Saudi Arabia, according to figures released by Salam Standard. The Middle East’s total outbound spend is projected to grow to USD 72 billion by 2020.

In addition to emerging trends such as eco, ethical, all-female, experiential, gastro and adventure tourism, panelists also discussed digitization and success stories from ‘non-Muslim’ destinations such as Orange County, Cape Town and Japan.

Chris Nader, Vice President, Shaza Hotels, said: “Gen Z and millennial travelers are setting the trends in halal tourism. The biggest challenge for us involves the resort side of the market – providing the privacy and facilities that Muslim guests need while delivering the entertainment they are looking for. It can be a challenge to create that mix.

“Whenever we create a resort, we have to develop something that is culturally relevant to the location. Travelers are no longer looking for ‘just a hotel’; they want to know what we can offer in terms of experiences. So, Muslim travelers don’t necessarily need to see halal branding but they do need to know that halal services are available.”

Industry-wide investment in halal tourism-related travel technology currently stands at approximately USD 40 million, according to research conducted by DinarStandard. Panelists agreed that this figure is likely to grow further in the future, as younger Muslim travelers continue to drive innovation in online services.

Faeez Fadhlillah, CEO, Tripfez, said: “If you look at the distribution of millennials globally, many of them are living in Muslim-majority countries. In the next 10 years, the youth in this region are going to play a significant role in driving tourism trends. That’s why online travel agencies are so interested in meeting demand from Muslim travelers. Companies are doing everything they can to capture this market.”

Running until Wednesday, 1 May, ATM 2019 will see more than 2,500 exhibitors showcase their products and services at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). Viewed by industry professionals as a barometer for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) tourism sector, last year’s edition of ATM welcomed 39,000 people, representing the largest exhibition in the history of the show.

For more information about ATM 2019, visit https://arabiantravelmarket.wtm.com.

MEDIA CONTACT: NATHALIE VISELE, Director, Shamal Communications, Arjaan Office Tower, Dubai Media City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Tel: +971 4 365 2711 | Mobile: +971 50 457 6525, E-mail: nathalie.visele@shamalcomms.com , Website: www.shamalcomms.com

GCC hospitality must appeal to ‘free independent travelers’ to unlock China’s tourist market

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The GCC must deliver unique and tech-enabled experiences designed for free independent travelers (FITs) if it is to grow its market share among China’s outbound tourists, according to experts speaking at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2019.

The overall number of outbound tourists from China is projected to hit 224 million by 2022, according to research conducted by Colliers. United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) figures show that the GCC is on course to attract 2.9 million of these visitors.

Panellists speaking at the Arabia China Tourism Forum, which took place on the Global Stage at ATM 2019, explored how Gulf states can boost Chinese visitation further and cater to younger travellers arriving from the Far East.

Moderator Dr Adam Wu, CEO of CBN Travel & MICE and World Travel Online, said: “The trend is moving away from group travel to FITs. Approximately 51 per cent of Chinese travellers [come from this segment]. They are travelling in smaller groups but it’s also the age groups that are changing.”

Unique experiences represent a key component when it comes to convincing younger Chinese travellers to visit the GCC. In addition to comfortable accommodation and accessible amenities, panellists noted that China’s FITs are looking for attractions that are not available in other markets.

Terry von Bibra, GM Europe, Alibaba Group, said: “Smaller groups [of Chinese travellers] are going to new places to discover and have unique experiences – special experiences that they can share with friends on social media, which is very important.

“You cannot underestimate the importance of the ideas of discovery and uniqueness. In my job, I see this across all aspects of trade with China. [Customers] want to understand why things are unique and special. The more you can help them understand this, the better job you are doing.”

In addition to unique experiences, Xiuhuan Gao, Head of Asian Market – Overseas Promotions Department, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), said that small, personal touches are also helping the GCC’s hospitality sector to boost arrivals from China, such as Chinese condiments and in-room snacks.

Gulf countries are already taking steps to strengthen ties with China and appeal to the country’s international tourist base. Chinese passport holders can obtain 30-day visas on arrival in Oman, Bahrain and Kuwait, and the launch of Saudi Arabia’s tourist visa is expected to lead to further increases.

Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), meanwhile, has partnered with China’s Tencent to promote the emirate as a preferred destination, and to bring the company’s WeChat and WeChat Pay platforms to the UAE. Panellists agreed that GCC hotels must also do more to facilitate a seamless visitor experience.

Rami Moukarzel, Vice President of Development and Acquisitions – Middle East and North Africa, Louvre Hotels Group, said: “We are seeing an influx of Chinese travellers across all segments. As a hotel industry, we need to be ready for the influx that is coming.”

Moukarzel told attendees that in addition to establishing market-specific booking platforms and social media channels, China-owned Louvre Hotels Group has also partnered with relevant mobile payment systems to ensure that Chinese travellers enjoy a seamless experience when visiting its Middle East properties.

According to figures released by the UNWTO, Chinese visitors are the highest spending overseas travellers on the planet, shelling out USD 258 billion in 2017. Attracting more of these individuals would benefit national economies across the GCC.

As Gulf destinations account for approximately one per cent of China’s outbound tourist market at present, the panel agreed that there remains significant room for growth – as long as the hospitality professionals create China-specific offerings and content that appeal to the country’s shifting market demographics.

Designed to enable travel, tourism and hospitality professionals to explore potential opportunities, the Arabia China Tourism Forum is one of several events that will be hosted on ATM 2019’s Global Stage this week. Other topics to be placed under the microscope include the Saudi Arabian market, halal tourism and industry innovations.

Running until Wednesday, 1 May, ATM 2019 will see more than 2,500 exhibitors showcase their products and services to visitors at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). Viewed by industry professionals as a barometer for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) tourism sector, last year’s edition of ATM welcomed 39,000 people, representing the largest exhibition in the history of the show.

MEDIA CONTACT: NATHALIE VISELE, Director, Shamal Communications, Arjaan Office Tower, Dubai Media City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Tel: +971 4 365 2711 | Mobile: +971 50 457 6525, E-mail: nathalie.visele@shamalcomms.com , Website: www.shamalcomms.com