Eden sails towards greater cruise ship capacity

Eden Breakwater

The NSW Government has granted planning approval for a modification to the existing Eden Breakwater Wharf Extension.

Eden will enjoy the benefits of bigger cruise ships and more frequent visits, thanks to the NSW Government granting planning approval for a modification to the existing Eden Breakwater Wharf Extension.

It comes off the back of Eden’s busiest summer cruise season on record, expected to pump an estimated $19 million into the local economy, based on previous data from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

Eden is well equipped to handle cruise ship visits, and the approved planning modification will ensure the region is fit for future cruise growth by allowing greater capacity.

The changes will open Eden up to larger cruise ships from all over the world over the next decade and beyond.

The modification application approval to the Eden Cruise Wharf includes:Removing the current cruise ship visit cap of 60 visits per season, helping to grow the number of visits for the long-term future;
Allowing vessels up to 370 metres to call at the berth (up from 325 metres);
The opportunity for overnight berthing, increasing the opportunity for visitors to explore and experience the beautiful Sapphire Coast and beyond;
Removing the 100m length limit on other vessel types to call at the berth including naval vessels, optimising the use of this world class facility.
Minor physical modifications with minimal construction will be required to the wharf, with Port Authority currently preparing the Operational Environmental Management Plan which is expected to be ready by the end of 2024.

Transport Minister Jo Haylen said: “Eden is already our state’s largest regional cruise port – and we’re making it even better, lifting the cap on visits and increasing NSW’s already booming market share of Australia’s cruising industry.

“Cruising is one of Eden’s biggest economic drivers, so allowing bigger international ships to sail will bring enormous benefits to the region for years to come.

“Investing in our regional ports is a no-brainer. We want people from all over the world to experience everything our stunning state has to offer and ensure we all reap the economic rewards.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said: “Eden’s maritime history stretches back to its whaling days almost 200 years ago and has evolved to become the popular tourism destination it is today.

“This modern-day maritime project unlocks huge opportunities for the Sapphire Coast region to support the local economy and create ongoing local jobs.”

Member for Bega Dr Michael Holland MP: “Cruise visitors bring a new energy to the local community, and locals – particularly our hard-working businesses – love seeing passengers step onto our shores.

“We’re pleased to grow our capacity and maximise the number of people who can spend time in our region, which is unparallelled in its natural beauty, hospitality, tours and charm.”

Port Authority CEO Captain Philip Holliday: “We already have 26 cruise ship visits booked for upcoming summer cruise season in Eden and we look forward to welcoming the first ship, Disney Wonder, into the Port of Eden on 30 October.

“As the upcoming cruise seasons build momentum and more bookings are secured, we are likely to see a greater number of cruise ships add Eden to their itineraries, which could include first-time visits for Majestic Princess and Ovation of the Seas.

“As part of the planning modification approval, the next step is to ensure we have an updated Operational Environmental Management Plan in place for the start of the next season.”

View Destination NSW's cruise resources here.

SIX the Musical Arrives Next Week

SIX the Musical will rule Theatre Royal Sydney once more from next Friday! Playing from 25 October to 28 December, this high-octane 80-minute musical experience follows the feisty Tudor queens as they boldly rewrite five hundred years of history.

BOOK TICKETS

Experience-led tourism takes centre stage at the NSW Visitor Economy Forum

The must have wearable tech for Aussie campers

With the Aussie summer just around the corner, caravanners and campers are getting ready to hit the road for sun-soaked adventures and off-grid escapes. That’s why we’re super excited to share with you details of a new product that is set to shake up outdoor adventures like never before – the EcoFlow Power Hat. And with the holiday season fast approaching, it’s also the perfect gift for those who love the great outdoors!

This isn’t just another sun hat. As the first wearable product to combine solar panels with headgear, the EcoFlow Power Hat is the perfect companion for campers looking to keep their devices powered without relying on an external battery pack. Featuring dual USB-A and USB-C ports, the EcoFlow Power Hat can keep two devices charged simultaneously – ideal for keeping your phone, portable fans, or GPS fully powered. 

 
Other key features include: 

•  Captures solar energy from all angles without any blind spots 
• Lightweight and durable at just 370 grams, making it easy to pack along for any summer adventure 
• IP65 waterproof and dust-proof, ideal for hiking, beach trips, fishing and other outdoor activities 
• Available in two adjustable sizes (Medium – 58cm, Larger – 61cm) for the perfect fit 

The EcoFlow Power Hat is available from the EcoFlow Australia website, with an early bird RRP of $139 until the end of October. After October 31, it will be available for $179.

Auckland & Rotorua make it ‘2 Easy’ for Aussie Travellers

Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, RotoruaNZ and Auckland Airport has launched a campaign aimed at bringing Australian leisure travellers to New Zealand’s North Island.

The ‘2 Easy’ campaign spotlights ‘2 Nights Auckland. 2 Nights Rotorua. 2 Easy’ as a key component of a New Zealand holiday, showcasing an effortless, exciting way to discover the bucket-list destinations over a short break or long weekend.

The ‘2 Easy’ campaign runs until 29 November, highlighting the best in hospitality and experiences the two regions have on offer. The campaign also includes incentive accommodation and activity deals with more than 80 tourism operators, including key partners Qantas and ANZCRO, making it even easier to enjoy these world-class destinations.

The short flight across the Tasman lands in Auckland for the ultimate break, where visitors will savour the world-class dining and accommodation options on offer and discover all that is unique to the region – outdoor adventure, city sights, Waiheke Island life and natural beauty. Combined with Rotorua, where you can escape into geothermal landscapes, experience Māori culture and participate in outdoor activities for all levels, these two regions offer some of the most unique travel experiences in the world.

The promotion across the two regions is for travellers booking a minimum 2 nights in Auckland and 2 nights in Rotorua to explore both destinations during the travel windows: 30 September – 15 December 2024 and 1 February – 30 May 2025. The deal offers are open until 29 November.

Annie Dundas, Director Destination at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited says the campaign is the ideal way to show Australian travellers the world-class offering right on their doorstep.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for our Australian neighbours to take a quick and easy trip over the Tasman and discover a whole new world of hospitality, culture and our great outdoors,” she says.

“There’s so much to see and do that is unique to our regions – from the bright lights and big city buzz of Auckland to the incredible geothermal landscapes of Rotorua - we look forward to welcoming our Australian neighbours to share in our unique way of life.”

Andrew Wilson, Chief Executive RotoruaNZ says the partnership between the two regions highlights the diverse set of experiences available to travellers in a seamless, easy trip across the Tasman. He adds: “Rotorua offers an unparalleled connection to the natural world and our rich Māori cultural experiences. The ‘2 Easy’ concept lets travellers experience Rotorua’s restorative magic after the vibrancy of Auckland, giving them the best of both worlds in one effortless trip.”

Tasmania's Ultimate Wild Wellness Experiences - Sauna Trail

Tasmania’s crisp climate lends itself perfectly to saunas, no matter the time of year. Heat up in a floating wood-fired sauna, then step outside and plunge into a misty lake. Or take part in an icy river plunge as part of a wild wellness adventure. Wash away your cares in a tranquil pool or soak in an outdoor tub at a private sauna. 

Standalone Saunas

Savu Saunas
Across Tasmania’s coastline, take a cold plunge and then sweat it out with Savu Saunas. The luxurious portable saunas, crafted from shipping containers, comfortably accommodate ten people and offer a world-class sauna experience. Located at The Bluff in Devonport, home to one of Tasmania's most beloved beaches, and at the Dial Park Sports Complex in Penguin, Savu Saunas brings communities together to enjoy the health benefits of regular sauna and cold plunge therapy.

Elsewhere Sauna
If you find yourself lucky, you’ll come across Elsewhere Sauna – a mobile healing space that travels around the local water bodies of Hobart. This hour-long wood-fired sauna can accommodate up to five people, and includes complimentary herbal tea and body scrub. You can also find Sunday bookings available at Randalls Bay in Tasmania’s Huon Valley, one of Condé Nast Traveler's 'Best Places to Go’ in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific in 2024.

The Wilderness Sauna on the Tasman Peninsula
Amidst the natural beauty of Impression Bay is the Wilderness Sauna, where visitors can detox and rejuvenate in Australia’s largest barrel sauna. Entirely mobile and fire-heated, this traditional wooden sauna offers the perfect blend of health and wellness within the quiet scenery of Tasmania. Enjoy your visit knowing that this environmentally conscious brand utilises salvaged timber, and plants a tree for each sauna session.
Assets here.

Floating Sauna, Lake Derby
Located in the mountain biking town of Derby, the Floating Sauna at Lake Derby is Australia’s only floating wood-fired sauna. Perfect for a mountain biker aiming to speed up their recovery after a day’s ride or those incorporating nature into their wellness rituals. ,. Completely off-grid and accessed by foot in around ten minutes, it offers the perfect opportunity for total immersion. Warm up, and finish with an icy plunge in Lake Derby. Communal and private sessions available.
Assets here.

Kuuma - Nature Sauna
In Southern Tasmania, you’ll find warmth through Kuuma, a pontoon boat that features a rejuvenating wood-fired sauna and a coastal waters dip in North West Bay. Whether a communal or private session, Kuuma offers a reviving experience of wellness and nature.
Assets here.

Sauna Boat Tasmania
Just a short drive from Hobart, in Little Oyster Cove, is a Scandinavian-inspired, Tasmanian timber sauna boat designed for ultimate relaxation. Escape the cold with a sauna while overlooking Tasmania’s serene coastline.

TITANIQUE Now On In Sydney

TITANIQUE has become one of New York’s most sought-after off-Broadway tickets.

Australian Producer Michael Cassel and original Producer Eva Price has brought the award-winning splash hit TITANIQUE to the The Grand Electric, creating a cool new space for the hottest musicals in the world in Sydney.

TITANIQUE’s director and co-writer Tye Blue said of the show’s Sydney premiere: “If you love Céline Dion, if you love the film Titanic, and you love having a completely silly night out then this show is for you. TITANIQUE is a nonstop waterfall of pure joy that will literally melt your troubles away. I can’t wait to see you there!”

The irresistibly funny and irreverent send-up of the blockbuster film Titanic, driven by the songs of pop icon Céline Dion, TITANIQUE has become one of New York’s most sought after tickets and has extended its run at the Daryl Roth Theatre in Union Square multiple times since it premiered in 2022.

Tickets for the exclusive Sydney run are on sale now at titaniquemusical.com.au.

TITANIQUE’s original producer, Eva Price, said: “I am so thrilled that TITANIQUE has made its maiden voyage to international waters in Sydney for its Australian debut, and I cannot wait to see that Aussie sense of humour embrace this hysterically funny nautical fantasia when it comes to life down under this September.”

Australian producer Michael Cassel said: “We know how much Sydney loves a great night out and unabashed escapism, and TITANIQUE is the perfect show for both of those things.”

When the music of Céline Dion makes sweet Canadian love with the eleven-time Oscar Award-winning blockbuster film Titanic, you get TITANIQUE, off-Broadway’s most award-winning splash hit, which turns one of the greatest love stories of all time into a hysterical musical fantasia. Want to find out what really happened to Jack and Rose on that fateful night? Just leave it to Céline Dion to enchant the audience with her totally wild take, recharting the course of Titanic’s beloved moments and characters with her iconic song catalogue. Sailing on fierce powerhouse voices in show-stopping performances of such hits as My Heart Will Go On, All By Myself, and To Love You More – backed by the unparalleled energy of a full live band – TITANIQUE is a one-of-a-kind theatrical voyage bursting with nostalgia, heart, and campy chaos.

Co-written by Marla Mindelle, Constantine Rousouli and Tye Blue, TITANIQUE celebrated its off-Broadway premiere in June 2022 at Asylum Theater, starring the musical’s co-authors Mindelle (Sister Act, Netflix’s Special) and Rousouli (Cruel Intentions, Hairspray) as Céline Dion and Jack Dawson.

After several sold-out extensions, the musical transferred to the Daryl Roth Theatre on 20 November, 2022. TITANIQUE became such a hit with audiences that new productions will soon play Toronto, Montreal and London.

Sydney is TITANIQUE’s exclusive Australian berth through support from the NSW Government via its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW.

TITANIQUE is directed by Tye Blue (RuPaul’s Drag Race, Rumer Willis’ Over the Love Tour), and choreographed by Ellenore Scott (Funny Girl, Little Shop of Horrors). Original Music Supervision, Arrangements and Orchestrations are by IRNE Award-Winner Nicholas James Connell. Original Scenic Design for TITANIQUE is by Gabriel Hainer Evansohn and Grace Lauchbacher for Iron Bloom Creative Production; Original Costume Design is by Alejo Vietti; Original Lighting Design is by Paige Seber; Original Sound Design is by Lawrence Schober; Original Prop Design is by Eric Reynolds.

TITANIQUE’s storied history includes a smash hit live-streamed concert – Titanique: The Maiden Voyage Concert – on the premium streaming service Stellar, on 2 May 2021, which followed sold-out pop-up concert engagements in Los Angeles and New York, earning the show a 2019 BroadwayWorld Cabaret Award. TITANIQUE won seven major awards of the 2022-23 theatre season, including three Lucille Lortel Awards (Outstanding Musical, Outstanding Lead Performer: Marla Mindelle, Outstanding Costume Design: Alejo Vietti), the Off-Broadway Alliance Award for Best New Musical, Las Culturistas’ Culture Award for Best Indoor Performance, and two Dorian Awards (Outstanding Off-Broadway Production, Outstanding Off-Broadway Performance: Marla Mindelle). The show earned an additional nine award nominations, including two 2023 Drama League Award nominations (Outstanding Musical; Distinguished Performance: Marla Mindelle), two Outer Critics Circle Award nominations (Book of a Musical, Lead Performer: Marla Mindelle), two Lortel Award nominations (Choreography, Featured Performer: John Riddle), and a Drama Desk Award nomination (Book of a Musical).

InterContinental Danang Elevates Gastronomy in Vietnam with Arrival of Culinary Icons

Ever since it opened in 2012, InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort has elevated Vietnam's restaurant scene to impressive heights by blending the country’s own gastronomic heritage with global excellence. Now, this multi-award-winning resort is embarking on an exciting new era of gastronomy with the arrival of world-leading chefs and the launch of a new Japanese restaurant that will firmly establish it as one of Asia’s true dining destinations.

Christian Le Squer Brings Fashion-Infused “Haute Couture” Cuisine to La Maison 1888

Chef Christian’s style of fashion-infused cuisine can be experienced in dishes such as Bubble Tartelette Mise en Bouche

 

The jewel in InterContinental Danang’s culinary crown, La Maison 1888 is an elegant Indochine mansion woven into the hillside, overlooking the ocean. Having achieved a Michelin star in 2024, this celebrated restaurant welcomes Chef Christian Le Squer. An icon of French haute cuisine, Chef Christian has held three Michelin stars for 22 consecutive years and was named as global “Chef of the Year” in 2023. His culinary leadership and highly original, fashion-infused style will now transport diners on immersive journeys.

Chef Christian will work side-by-side with Florian Stein, La Maison 1888's Chef de Cuisine who previously worked at the famous Le Chambard in France, and Jimmy Chang, the talented Beverage Manager and sommelier who has helped the restaurant achieve Wine Spectator's “Award of Excellence” for seven consecutive years.

Director of Culinary Bruno Bruesch to Create New Experiences

Guiding the resort’s gastronomic transformation will be Bruno Bruesch, InterContinental Danang’s new Director of Culinary. An epicurean expert with more than 30 years' experience across three continents, Chef Bruno was a rising young star in his home country of Switzerland, and captained his junior national team to a gold medal at the IKA/Culinary Olympics in 1992. Since then, he has gone on to enjoy a stellar career at leading five-star hotels and fine dining restaurants in Europe, Asia and North America. His philosophy is based upon six key pillars: seasonality, sustainability, simplicity & playfulness, quality & excellence, continuous learning, and respect for tradition.

Pictured (left): authentic Vietnamese Banh Xeo pancakes at Citron, and (right) a sumptuous Surf & Turf feast at Barefoot

 

Guided by these principles, Chef Bruno will now introduce his passion, skill and vision to InterContinental Danang’s restaurants, bars and banquets. This includes Citron, which presents authentic local and seasonal dishes from Vietnam’s distinct northern, central and southern regions, and Barefoot, a chic beachside grill that spills from a thatched wooden pavilion directly onto the golden sand. Guests can also look forward to highly exclusive private dining opportunities, elevated gala events and more as-yet-unrevealed surprises!

Tingara to Raise Japanese Cuisine to the Stars

Another exciting new addition to Vietnam’s culinary scene is Tingara, an all-new Japanese omakase, teppanyaki and sushi restaurant. Scheduled to officially open in late 2024,this dramatic dining venue is perched on the highest level of InterContinental Danang and has been designed by Bill Bensley to resemble a nest in the jungle canopy. With a vibrant live kitchen, a robata grill, a choice of counter and table seating, and panoramic ocean views, guests can look forward to theatrical live cooking and multi-sensory menus.

The name Tingara is derived from the Okinawan word for the Milky Way (or “river of stars”). Hailing from Okinawa, Michelin-starred Chef Junichi Yoshida, along with teppanyaki maestro Tetsuhiko Isozaki and sushi master Tsuneyoshi Taira, will use only the finest ingredients, including fresh seafood and Kuroge wagyu beef.

“At InterContinental Danang, gastronomy has always been one of our key pillars, as we strive to create extraordinary dining journeys that surprise and delight guests. By welcoming the world's most talented and innovative culinary pioneers, we are pushing the boundaries even further and creating truly unparalleled experiences. We look forward to showcasing our exciting new menus to all discerning diners in the coming weeks and months,” said Seif Hamdy, General Manager, InterContinental Danang.

For more information and to embark on your gastronomic adventure at InterContinental Danang, please contact +84 236 393 8888 or visit www.danang.intercontinental.com.

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.