Calling all dreamers: Vivid Sydney wants you

Vivid

Artists, musicians, thought leaders and food creatives are encouraged to submit Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the opportunity to be part of Australia’s largest event.

Vivid Sydney, the Southern Hemisphere’s largest multi-artform festival, is calling on the best creative minds to submit ideas for next year’s event.

Vivid Sydney 2025 will take place from Friday 23 May to Saturday 14 June 2025, with a program centred around the theme of Vivid Sydney, Dream.

Artists, musicians, thought leaders and food creatives are encouraged to submit Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the opportunity to be part of Australia’s largest event and showcase their work to a mass audience across the festival pillars of Light, Music, Ideas and Food.

Destination NSW CEO Steve Cox said: “Since 2009, Vivid Sydney has grown to become Sydney’s vibrant cultural showpiece, driving significant visitation to Sydney and regional NSW and positioning our state as the arts and creative industries capital of the Asia Pacific.

“Vivid Sydney is more than a light show, it is Sydney’s living legacy that captures imaginations and shares with visitors and locals alike the very best talent from our creative, entertainment and hospitality industries.

“I encourage the brightest talents to join Destination NSW in creating an event that elevates the Harbour City as the Asia Pacific’s leader in world-class cultural experiences.”

Vivid Sydney Festival Director Gill Minervini said: “Vivid Sydney 2025 is pushing the creative boundaries across our theme of “Dream” to deliver another unforgettable global celebration.

“Dreaming is something we all do. It’s as old as time and as universal as life itself. Dreams don’t discriminate – they are borderless, ageless and endless. They can be personal or public. When shared, our dreams can become a movement. They can inspire, motivate, spark excitement and connection.

“The whole world dreams, it is something we have in common, something that unites us. Our human story is embedded in dreams, they help explain our existence and our past.

“We want the very best in homegrown talent to be part of our vibrant Vivid Sydney event program, with a unique opportunity to foster community connection, spark imagination and showcase the multitude of ways creativity can enrich our lives.

“Each year Vivid Sydney aims to deliver unparalleled artistic brilliance and we look forward to welcoming the inspirations within our community that will help shape Vivid Sydney 2025 into a show-stopping cultural phenomenon.”

The Vivid Sydney EOI outlines opportunities for artists, designers, creative industry professionals, equipment suppliers, architects, engineers, promoters, restaurants, event companies, chefs, producers and educational institutions to present their ideas, designs, concepts and interest for inclusion in the annual event.

Light and Cross Art Form EOIs will close on Monday 2 September 2024 with Ideas, Music and Food closing on Friday 27 September 2024.

This year’s Vivid Sydney attracted 2.42 million attendees, making it the third largest on record. Highlights included a record-breaking opening night and the busiest single night in the festival’s history on Sunday 9 June.

While Vivid Sydney 2024 attracted millions of people from across Australia and the globe, it also had a profound impact on the creative minds who helped bring the event to life, including Sydney’s retail, hospitality and accommodation sectors.

Leila Jeffreys the artist behind popular Vivid Light 2024 installation Nest said: “Thank you to Festival Director Gill Minervini and all at Vivid Sydney for giving me and my artistic collaborator Melvin J. Montalban the opportunity to create art on a scale that we could not have achieved on our own.

“I visited Nest many times throughout the festival and was always moved to see people from all walks of life and ages stand together to witness the courtship dance of the Brolga, a moment where we all felt the link between the natural world and the human journey.”

Tekno Train creator and composer Paul Mac said: “When I set out to create Tekno Train I wanted to make an experience that fused my love of techno and trains with lights and to share this joy with as many people as possible. The positive reactions I have received from people on the train, as well as the drivers, guards, and random folks on social media has absolutely blown me away.

“Vivid Sydney 2024 has been an unexpected career highlight, and I am forever grateful to everyone who helped bring this together.”

Club Broadway MC & Music Producer DJ Dan Murphy said: “Bringing our Club Broadway show to a Vivid Sydney audience has been an absolute joy. We loved making our show accessible to a whole new audience who love the world of musical theatre.

“Vivid Sydney is such an amazing and important festival for our city, and we were thrilled to be on the program. From old to young, we had them all on the dancefloor for Club Broadway at Tumbalong Park. The night was absolutely magical and a great way to celebrate our community.”

Service and Creative Skills Australia (the Jobs and Skills Council for Arts, Personal Services, Retail, Tourism and Hospitality) CEO Natalie Turmine said: “Vivid Sydney showcases brilliantly our talented and vibrant creative arts, tourism and hospitality workforce, demonstrating the wealth of exciting career opportunities available in this sector.

“Thank you to all the creative artists, technicians, performers, hospitality staff and event organisers for delivering another successful Vivid Sydney.”

Plate it Forward CEO and restaurateur Shaun Christie-David said: “Vivid Sydney shows the diversity of Sydney, shining a positive light on our city, culture and produce. As a social enterprise hospitality group, it was a privilege to partner with Vivid Sydney to bring the 2024 festival theme humanity to life through food. Food is all about sharing, love, respect and community.

“There is so much pride, joy and power that can be found in food, it is a platform to celebrate culture, make meaningful connections and create jobs. Through working with Vivid Food and selling more than 1000 tacos, more than 1500 meals will be donated to community kitchens for people in need.”

Tourism & Transport Forum CEO Margy Osmond said: “Between the lights, the music, the ideas, the food and the incredible vibe…Vivid Sydney has once again delivered a spectacular event for visitors and locals of all ages, with the big winners being local tourism and hospitality operators.”

“The bright lights of Vivid Sydney have showcased first-class hospitality, creativity and our beloved Sydney CBD and Harbour icons to audiences across the globe, demonstrating the value and huge potential of this event and the need to continue investing in world class events.”

Accommodation Australia's Michael Johnson said: “Once again, the juggernaut that is Vivid Sydney illuminated the city, shining a light on the beauty and culture of the city.

“Over the course of the event, hotels in the CBD enjoyed 75 per cent occupancy with bookings reaching as high as 90 per cent on weekends. There is no denying major events such as Vivid Sydney, that have the capacity to draw a high level of overnight visitation in the middle of winter, create an incredible boost for the city’s visitor economy.”

Vivid Sydney is owned, managed and produced by Destination NSW, the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency.

For more information and to submit an Expression of Interest for Vivid Sydney 2025, go to www.vividsydney.com.

WTTC’s 25th Global Summit Heads to the Eternal City

As the curtains closed on the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2024 Global Summit in Perth, Western Australia, the global tourism body announced the Italian capital of Rome as the host city for the 2025 WTTC Global Summit.

The 2025 Global Summit marks the first time the event will be held in the historic heart of Italy, the seat of ancient empires and cultural heritage.

One of the world’s most popular destinations, the Global Summit in Italy will see business leaders and government delegations from around the world, converge in the city to discuss the latest challenges facing the sector, as well as the solutions of tomorrow.

Scheduled for late 2025, the 25th Global Summit will be staged in collaboration with the Italian Ministry of Tourism and marks a significant return to Europe after six years.

The 2019 WTTC Global Summit took place in Seville, Spain, with 44thPresident of the United States, Barack Obama, addressing delegates.

The Summit in Perth, Western Australia concluded with nearly 800 delegates from more than 50 countries, and over 100 journalists from around the world.

The global tourism body's summit featured insights from leading figures such as John Kerry, the 68th Secretary of State of the United States, and Robert Irwin, one of Australia’s foremost conservationists, reflecting on pressing global environmental challenges and the role of tourism in addressing them.

WTTC President & CEO, Julia Simpson, stated “The success of our 2024 Global Summit is a testament to the enduring appeal and innovation within the Travel & Tourism sector. I want to extend my thanks to the team at Tourism Western Australia for all their work, in making this Summit a reality.

“History shows that all roads lead to Rome, and in 2025 that’s certainly true as we head to a global city steeped in history, yet vibrantly forward-looking.”

Daniela Santanchè, Minister of Tourism, Italy, emphasised: “I am proud, as the Minister of Tourism of Italy, to announce that our nation will host the WTTC Global Summit in October 2025.

“This event is recognised as the most important setting for dialogue between governments and the private sector, where leaders shape the future of global Travel & Tourism. We look forward to welcoming our guests and Members of WTTC to Rome, a city rich in history and innovation.”

The 25th WTTC Global Summit will serve as a prime opportunity to showcase Italy's rich cultural heritage and contemporary tourist offerings to the world’s leading travel executives.

In Perth, WTTC released the latest Environmental & Social Research (ESR) data, revealing a significant decrease in Travel & Tourism’s climate footprint emissions.

The latest data showed that whilst the sectors economic contribution to global GDP almost reached pre-pandemic levels last year, the greenhouse gas emissions intensity fell by more than 8% in the same period.

This clearly demonstrates that the sector is not only recovering, but it is growing at a cleaner rate than previously.

The Summit also addressed key issues and growth strategies globally and shone a spotlight on the Oceania Travel & Tourism sector, setting the stage for continued discussion and innovation in Rome.

Palm Beach Headland becomes Australia's first Urban Night Sky Place

The designation by DarkSky International aims to preserve dark sky experiences for visitors.

Palm Beach Headland on Sydney's Northern Beaches has been officially designated as the first Urban Night Sky Place (UNSP) in Australia by DarkSky International.

The designation demonstrates how good quality lighting and design can reduce the impacts of artificial light on the natural nighttime environment and open up opportunities for better viewing of our night sky.

An UNSP aims to preserve a dark sky experience for visitors and educate people on the benefits of proper outdoor lighting that ensures public safety while protecting the night sky.

Positioned on the outer edge of the city region and on the northern most tip of Palm Beach, the UNSP covers 62 hectares and incorporates Governor Phillip Park and Barrenjoey Headland which is part of the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

DarkSky International designates Urban Night Sky Places following a rigorous application process to meet specific program requirements.

Northern Beaches Council Mayor Sue Heins said: “We’re extremely proud to be the first designated Urban Night Sky Place in Australia and the southern hemisphere. Through a lot of hard work and consultation with our community we can now join the 160,000 square kilometres of protected land and night skies in 22 countries on six continents.

“This designation is a testament to our commitment to preserving and celebrating the beauty of the night sky amidst urban environments. As cities expand and light pollution increases, it becomes increasingly crucial to protect and appreciate our connection to the stars above."

Northern Beaches Council worked closely with a Project Working Group including National Parks and Wildlife Services (NPWS), local business representatives, local community representatives and community representatives to prepare an application to DarkSky International.

Dark Sky Places Program Manager Amber Harrison said: “This is an inspirational achievement for the Northern Beaches Council and the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). As the first UNSP in Australia, this initiative will inspire others to protect the area regionally and demonstrates to Greater Sydney the importance of good lighting practices to ensure safe public safety while preserving natural night skies.”

Northern Beaches Council also worked closely with Ausgrid, which introduced a new street lighting type for biodiversity sensitive areas that meets the Dark Sky requirements.

Ausgrid Council Manager, Lighting & Smart Solutions Jiri Heider said: “Ausgrid is pleased to be collaborating with Northern Beaches Council to deliver a bespoke streetlighting solution that meets the strict Dark Sky requirements. The luminaires we installed use the latest smart technology, while providing safe lighting for the community.”

National Parks and Wildlife Service area manager Chad Weston said: “This site is special, being a National Park and listed on the NSW State Heritage Register due to its rich natural and historical value. It will provide another reason for people to enjoy and respect such a beautiful location.”

NATURE-BASED TOURISM BOOM FOR NSW

Demand for nature-based experiences in NSW grew by 10 per cent in the year ending March 2024.

Visitors are choosing to connect more with the state's many unique outdoor activities and destinations.

Tourism Research Australia (TRA) data shows that in the year ending March 2024 there were 16.1 million domestic overnight visitors to NSW who engaged in nature and outdoor-based activities during their trips. This was an increase of 10.2 per cent on the previous year.

The visitors stayed 55 million nights and spent $16 billion (up 3.5 per cent for nights and 1.1 per cent for expenditure on the previous year) across their whole trip in NSW.

Austrade reports that TRA data from 2014 to 2023 shows nature-based activities among Australians have seen an overall growth of 47 per cent in demand. Some activities grew by almost 85 per cent, with around 50 per cent more people enjoying the outdoors.

TRA’s National Visitor Survey has revealed growth in demand for the following activities since 2014:

Visiting botanic or public gardens saw 85 per cent growth.

• Bushwalking and rainforest walks grew significantly in popularity by 81 per cent.
• Visiting national or state parks grew by 73 per cent, highlighting the importance of these protected areas.
• Caravanning or camping saw 40 per cent growth.
• Cycling grew by 53 per cent.
• Visiting wildlife parks, zoos, and aquariums saw 46 per cent growth.
• Going to the beach grew by 44 per cent.
• Golfing grew by 44 per cent.
• Snorkelling grew by 38 per cent.
• Whale or dolphin watching saw a 26 per cent increase.
• Visiting farms increased by 12 per cent.
• Surfing had nine per cent growth.
• Fishing grew by eight per cent.

Learn more here.

Laguna Phuket thrives amidst post-pandemic tourism surge

In an exclusive conversation with Paul Wilson, Vice President and Deputy Managing Director of Laguna Phuket, we explore the remarkable growth and transformation of this iconic 2,500-rai resort complex in Cherngtalay. As one of the premier destinations on the island of Phuket, Laguna Phuket has played a pivotal role in the post-pandemic revival of the local tourism industry. With a mix of luxury hotels, residential developments, and recreational facilities spread across 3 kilometres of pristine beachfront, Wilson shares insights into how Laguna Phuket has navigated challenges, capitalized on growth opportunities, and maintained its status as a leader in Phuket’s dynamic tourism landscape.

“Laguna Phuket, a sprawling 2,500-rai resort complex in the heart of Cherngtalay, has emerged as one of the most dynamic and prosperous destinations on the island of Phuket,” according to Paul Wilson, Vice President and Deputy Managing Director.

“The 18-hole golf course, residential developments, and luxury hotels spread across 3 kilometres of pristine beachfront have positioned Laguna Phuket at the forefront of Phuket’s tourism revival.”

Post-Pandemic Recovery and Expansion

“Phuket’s tourism industry has seen a remarkable recovery since the pandemic, thanks in part to Thailand’s innovative “Sandbox” initiative, which allowed international tourists to return earlier than in many other destinations,” says Wilson.

Angsana Laguna Phuket

He added, “Laguna Phuket has capitalised on this momentum, continuing to expand its residential portfolio and developing new recreational facilities, including expansive landscaped parks with walking trails, outdoor exercise, dog park, regenerative “pocket forests” and a new residents beach club directly on the beachfront. The resurgence has been bolstered by significant developments throughout Phuket, with Cherngtalay now regarded as the island’s hottest area for tourism and real estate.”

Occupancy and Revenue Growth

Wilson reports a promising outlook for Laguna Phuket in 2024, forecasting a 5% increase in occupancy rates compared to 2023. “This rise in occupancy is complemented by a substantial 15% increase in average room rates, driven by strong demand for luxury accommodations. As a result, revenue per available room (RevPAR) is expected to see an impressive 18-20% rise, reflecting the overall strength of the destination.”

“The positive trend is not isolated to Laguna Phuket. Recent data from STR, a leading global provider of market data on the hotel industry, shows similar growth across Phuket’s luxury hotel sector. This indicates a robust demand for high-end travel experiences on the island, supported by steady interest from European and American markets, along with emerging markets such as the Middle East and Russia,” he added.

Challenges and Adaptations

While the recovery has been strong, Wilson acknowledges the challenges posed by the post-pandemic landscape. “One significant change is the shortening of booking windows, with travellers now making decisions much closer to their departure dates. This shift has necessitated a more dynamic approach to forecasting and planning,” he shared.

Dog Park & Family Maze

He went on to say, “The pandemic also highlighted the importance of human capital in the hospitality industry. As many workers returned to their home provinces during the pandemic, Laguna Phuket has had to adapt to a more competitive recruitment environment. The company has focused on maintaining a flexible workforce and offering attractive working conditions to retain top talent, an approach that has served it well in navigating these challenges.”

A Cautiously Optimistic Outlook

Looking at the immediate future, Wilson remains cautiously optimistic. While 2024 is set to be a banner year for Laguna Phuket, the company remains vigilant about potential disruptions. “In travel, you always have to be somewhat paranoid,” Wilson notes, “Always looking for what could trip you up.” This cautious approach has guided Laguna Phuket’s development strategy, with the company opting for phased expansions that allow for flexibility in response to market conditions.

In closing Mr Paul Wilson looks ahead, saying, “Laguna Phuket continues to be a leader in sustainable development, carefully balancing expansion with environmental stewardship. New projects, such as the wellness-focused Garrya brand and the expansive Laguna Lakelands residential community, are designed to integrate seamlessly with the natural surroundings, preserving the unique charm that has made Phuket a sought-after destination for travellers worldwide.”
* TravelDailyNews

AUSTRALIA'S NUMBER ONE VISITOR EXPERIENCE

Blue Mountains

TripAdvisor has released its Travelers' Choice Awards Best of the Best 2024, which highlights the best destinations, beaches, hotels, restaurants and experiences in Australia, based on reviews and ratings from the TripAdvisor community. 

NSW scored first place in two categories: Scenic World's Blue Mountains small group tour was named best experience in Australia, while Manly was voted best beach in Australia. 

Across other categories, four NSW restaurants and six hotels were recognised for excellence.

LEARN MORE

“Vast and Verdant”: Resort Unveils Remarkable Wellness and Recreation Precinct

An 18-hole mini golf course, driving range, clubhouse, soccer field, tennis court, running track and organic sustainable farm are among The Anam Cam Ranh’s new collection of lush beachfront facilities promoting wellbeing.

Spanning 1700sqm, the new 18-hole mini golf course is adjacent to the new 500sqm driving range and pavilion-style clubhouse. The contoured mini golf course is believed to be the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, due to its real grass finishing that the resort’s gardeners painstakingly maintain.

The new soccer field sports striped dark and light green grass and is already proving popular with football-obsessed Vietnamese and international guests. The tennis court, fenced by thick greenery, has been fully revamped.

Manned by staff ready to assist with golf equipment, tennis rackets, tennis and soccer balls, towels, water and other refreshments, the open-air clubhouse marks the start and finish of the new circular running track. Flanked by greenery, the track stretches for 1.5km around the resort’s recently opened organic sustainable farm and various recreation facilities such as the soccer field.

The 8500sqm sustainable farm is dedicated to cultivating an array of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and eggs for meals for guests and staff. Chefs incorporate fresh, organic ingredients – such as morning glory, malabar spinach, corn, mustard green, wild betel leaves, and chicken and duck eggs – in meals served to Lang Viet Restaurant & Bar’s diners as well as at the staff kitchen. In addition to ducks and chickens, the farm is home to an abundance of geese, rabbits, goats, guinea fowls, turkeys and peacocks and their offspring. Children interact with the friendly animals during a supervised program to learn about sustainable farming.

Describing it as “such a reinvigorating place to be due to its vivid greenery and dramatic mountain backdrop”, The Anam Group’s group general manager Laurent Myter encouraged guests to make the most of the “vast and verdant” new precinct that debuted this month. “Take a stroll or light jog, tee off at the new driving range and mini golf course sans plastic grass and kitsch windmills, kick a soccer ball, wield a tennis racket or rummage through our sustainable farm … or, better still, do it all!” he said.

The mini golf course and driving range are open daily from 9am – 5pm. The fee for playing the 18-hole golf course is 200,000 VND per round per person, 300,000 VND per round for two people, and 500,000 VND per round for four to five people, including equipment and shoes. The driving range costs 100,000 VND per hour for 100 balls. Access to the tennis court before 6pm is free, and priced at 250,000 VND per hour after 6pm. Access to the precinct’s other facilities is complimentary for guests.

For further information or to make a booking, visit www.theanam.com, email info.cr@theanam.com or telephone +(84) 258 398 9499.

Thailand’s INNSiDE Hotel Lauded By Nat Geo Traveller UK Hotel Awards

INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit has clinched a coveted spot in the prestigious National Geographic Traveller (UK)’s 2024 Hotel Awards, taking out the title of the world’s best “Budget Break” hotel.

The UK edition of National Geographic Travellerannounced on October 3 the winners and runners-up of its annual Hotel Awards, designed to spotlight the world’s best new and improved hotels.

“We’ve searched the planet for the world’s best hotels. Here are our picks,” National Geographic Traveller (UK)said. “It’s been an epic year for hotel openings, revamps and extensions, and we've scoured the globe for the best of them. Whether you want to tune into the jungle from a treehouse, sleep in a piece of history or watch the sun set over mountain peaks from your bed, you're guaranteed a memorable stay from our winners and runners-up.”

INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit was deemed the winner of “Budget Break” award category. The House of Gods in Scotland and Interno Marche in Italy were the category’s runners-up. “Wallet-friendly prices don’t have to come at the cost of style or substance, as these three hotels illustrate,” National Geographic Traveller (UK)said.

The publication applauded the 208-room INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit for its “clutch of bars, restaurants and communal workspaces” and “crowning glory: a glass-bottomed infinity pool overlooking the metropolis”.

“In a city increasingly dominated by ultra-luxe hotels, INNSiDE is something of a palate cleanser,” the publication said. “In Bangkok’s On Nut neighbourhood — a short train ride away from the Thai capital’s main action — this light and bright place offers an upscale stay without the matching price tag. Inside, the hotel has embraced a white palette with subtle nods to the city’s landmarks, with wavy ceilings that evoke the flow and majesty of the Chao Phraya River, and gold accents resembling the spires of the Wat Pho and Wat Phra Kaew temples. The restrained interiors are a wise choice that allows the spectacular sky-rise views to shine. The views provide a glittering urban backdrop for a swim, or for sunset tapas at the bar on the floor just below.”

INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit general manager Aarron Nelson said he and his team were “over the moon our hotel’s name is in lights with Nat Geo Traveller”.

“Since our hotel’s debut in July 2023, its Asian translation of the INNSiDE brand has truly resonated with all sorts of terrific travellers, connecting us with a wider, global audience, and this award win is testament to that,” he said. “Towering over On Nut, our hotel has many standout attributes ranging from a compelling design that references some of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks, integrated co-working spaces and a 33rd floor rooftop tapas bar where diners peer into the bottom of our 34thfloor infinity pool.”

The winners and runners-up appear in the publication’s November issue out now in the UK and online: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/national-geographic-traveller-uk-hotel-awards-worlds-best-hotels-2024 Other award categories include “Revamped Hotel”, “Romantic Bolthole”, “City Star”, “Food Hero”, “Beach Sanctuary”, “Wellness Haven”, “Remote Sleep”, “Clever Conversion”, “Eco-stay”, “Mountain Refuge”, and “One-of-a-kind”.

INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is the newest member of an eclectic collection of urban and beach INNSiDE hotels — in 14 different countries across Asia, Europe, and the Americas — designed for those with curious minds who have a fluid lifestyle when it comes to work and leisure.

For further information and to make a reservation, visit melia.com, call +66 2 340 5499 or email reservation.innside.sukhumvit@melia.com

Indigenous Tourism to Inject $67BN USD into Global Economy Says WTTC Report

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) today launched a landmark report at its Global Summit in Perth, Western Australia, highlighting how Indigenous tourism is projected to contribute $67BN USD to the global economy by 2034.

The report showcases the sector’s role in driving economic growth, particularly in remote regions, and its vital contribution for cultural preservation and community empowerment.

Indigenous Tourism: A Driver of Economic Growth

Indigenous tourism is rapidly emerging as a key economic driver. It creates jobs and economic value in remote areas. It promotes and protects Indigenous people’s cultures, languages and lands. And gives visitors a unique opportunity to experience and learn about Indigenous history and tradition.

With the global Indigenous tourism market set to grow at a CAGR of 4.1% over the next decade to reach $67BN, this sector is empowering communities to take control of their economic futures.

Interest and participation in Aboriginal tourism experiences continues grow in Western Australia, with the highest results recorded to date this year. According to Visitor Experiences and Expectations Research(VEER), almost nine in 10 visitors are interested (87%) and more than a third (36%) participated in Aboriginal tourism in WA in 2023-24. The economic contribution of Aboriginal tourism businesses continues to improve, with this sector adding $63,8 million to the Gross State Product in Western Australia in 2021-22.

In Canada alone, the Indigenous tourism sector supports nearly 2,000 businesses, and over 39,000 jobs, contributing CA$1.7BN to the economy in 2017.

Similarly, in Panama’s Guna Yala region, tourism is the primary economic driver, sustaining the Guna people and their culture while creating a self-sufficient economy.

This economic boom is fuelled by increasing demand for authentic cultural experiences, in countries such as Canada, Australia, and the United States, amongst others.

In Australia, more than 1.4MN international visitors engaged in Indigenous tourism experiences in 2019, marking a 6% year-on-year growth since 2010.

Speaking at the global tourism body’s 24thGlobal Summit in Perth, Western Australia, Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO said: "Indigenous tourism is not only about showcasing rich cultural traditions; it’s about empowering communities, creating sustainable jobs, and ensuring that Indigenous people are in control of their own stories and economic futures.

“This report demonstrates the immense potential of Indigenous tourism to drive economic growth, particularly in remote regions, while preserving invaluable cultural heritage. As global demand for authentic experiences continues to rise, it is crucial that we support Indigenous businesses and ensure they have access to the resources and funding needed to thrive.”

Western Australia Indigenous Tourism Operators Council (WAITOC) CEO Robert Taylor highlighted the importance of authentic Indigenous experiences. WAITOC has worked closely with Tourism Western Australia to develop an action plan to support the continued development of Indigenous tourism in the state. The Jina: Western Australia Aboriginal Tourism Action Plan 2021-2025 supports new businesses and encourages more Aboriginal people to work in the tourism industry.

“Western Australia is well on its way to becoming the premier destination for authentic Aboriginal experiences in the country,” Mr Taylor said.

“Our Camping with Custodians is just one example of the continued growth of Aboriginal tourism in Western Australia. This Australian-first program develops high quality campgrounds on Aboriginal lands,” he said.

“In May, we celebrated the launch of the seventh site. Located in Lombadina, on the Dampier Peninsula north of Broome. These campgrounds are owned and operated by the respective Aboriginal community, bringing funding and employment opportunities.

“We are also seeing a strong growth in product offerings, including several womens-only experiences,” he said.

Preserving Culture Through Tourism

The report, Supporting Global Indigenous Tourism, shows how Indigenous tourism also plays a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage, languages, and traditional practices.

The Sámi people of Northern Europe, for example, have developed certification marks such as "Sámi Duodji" to protect their rich traditions, while Peru’s innovative Kipi robot helps preserve endangered languages like Kukama, spoken by just 2,000 people.

By incorporating these elements such as these into tourism, Indigenous communities can safeguard their cultural identities.

Sustainable Career Paths and Inclusivity

Indigenous tourism is also a sustainable career path, exemplified by Canada’s Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), which empowers communities to control of their futures through tourism.

Meanwhile, countries like Australia and the U.S. are increasingly incorporating Indigenous experiences into national tourism marketing, ensuring authentic representation.

Access to Funding and Growth

Despite the growth of Indigenous tourism, many operators face challenges in securing funding, but efforts such as Canada's Indigenous Tourism Destination Fund (ITDF) aims to raise CA$2.6BN by 2030, to create 800 new Indigenous businesses and over 21,000 new jobs.

These funds are critical to ensuring Indigenous communities benefit fully from the booming tourism industry and can continue to grow sustainably.

WTTC is committed to lending its voice to this important conversation and support the efforts of Indigenous peoples worldwide in shaping their own tourism narratives and ensuring Indigenous tourism remains a thriving, self-sustaining industry that benefits everyone.

Please visit wttc.org to read the full report

Ernie Dingo, Mark Coles Smith, Aaron Fa’Aoso, Bianca Hunt and Rae Johnston showcase Australia's beauty in new season of Going Places

Popular travel and lifestyle show Going Places with Ernie Dingo will return for a sixth season onNational Indigenous Television (NITV), SBS and SBS On Demand from Thursday 31 October at 7.30pm, with new episodes premiering weekly.

Led by Australian icon and proud Yamatji man, Ernie Dingo, the 12-episode season unearths and explores stunning locations and activities across Western Australia, Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and the Northern Territory. Audiences will meet Indigenous peoples and local legends, who reveal surprising and inspiring Australian stories.

Gold Logie-nominated actor Mark Coles Smith (Mystery Road: Origin, Keeping Hope) joins Ernie for the first time this season, along with returning presenters Aaron Fa’Aoso, Bianca Hunt and Rae Johnston.

Host, Ernie Dingo, said: “Travel is one of my many passions and it’s a joy to work with the team on another new season. From Western Australia’s Ningaloo Reef to Mt Isa’s world-famous rodeo country, there are always more stories to tell, with wonderful people to tell them. I hope people at home might find a new location to add to their travel list, thanks to our show.”

NITV’s Acting Head of Indigenous Commissions and Production, Adam Manovic, said: “Going Places with Ernie Dingo continues to be a much-loved program for NITV and SBS audiences and we’re so proud that the program is now in its sixth season. Ernie’s conversational and laid-back interview style gives an intimate portrait of each of the places he visits, and we’re thrilled to have Mark Coles Smith join the team for season 6. Each of our presenters – Ernie, Mark, Bianca, Aaron and Rae bring their own experience and flair to the show.”

Each episode features three locations, with a total of 36 stories across the season.

Episode 1: Ningaloo Reef, Pic Ila and Kalgoorlie

Thursday 31 October
Join Ernie as he hits the deep blue with the biggest fish in the sea at Ningaloo Reef. Rae jams with a folk duo in regional Victoria and Mark learns about an old Aussie past time in Kalgoorlie.

Episode 2: Standley Chasm, Byron Bay and Mt Isa

Thursday 7 November
Ernie heads to the heart of Central Australia to take in the beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges, Bianca cozies up with Byron Bay's wildlife and Aaron learns to lasso with a cowboy in Queensland’s rodeo-country of Mt Isa.

Episode 3: Abrolhos Islands, Glenreagh and Burketown

Thursday 14 October
Ernie cruises across the Indian Ocean to visit the spectacular Abrolhos Islands, Bianca gets behind the lens with a photographer in the NSW Northern Rivers, and Aaron gets a bird’s eye view of the beautiful and vast Gulf of Carpentaria.

Watch Going Places with Ernie Dingo on Thursday 31 October at 7.30pm on NITV and SBS. It will be available to stream for free on SBS On Demand, with captions available in English and subtitles in Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese.

Join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok using #GoingPlacesWithErnieDingo #NITV