Tuesday 30 November 2021

An Ode to Holidays Lost (and Now Found) - 1800 Tequila creates ‘Afar’, a fragrance in tribute to far-flung destinations

Tequila and travel enthusiasts prepare to rejoice as 1800 Tequila has announced the launch of a limited-edition gender neutral fragrance and edible spritz, encapsulating the essence of Mexico and holidays lost.

Exclusively available via an Instagram competition, 1800 Tequila’s ‘Afar’ fragrance and edible spritz embody the feeling of travel and relaxation by incorporating the flavours and smells of the Tequila region – including Blue Agave, lemon, verbena and sea salt, all reminiscent of far-flung lands.

Working with fragrance specialist Samantha Taylor from The Powder Room, 1800 Tequila has created not only a fragrance but also a spritz that can be added to your bespoke 1800 Tequila cocktail for a multi-sensory experience to re-ignite the passion for overseas travel.

Recent research conducted by 1800 Tequila shows that 36% of respondents are craving a beach or luxury resort type holiday; almost 1 in 3 people find new and different cultures the most distinctive aspect of an overseas getaway; and nearly a quarter (24%) of people between the ages 18-34 say tequila reminds them of holidays.

Hayley Dixon, Proximo Spirits specialist said, “1800 Tequila is the world’s most awarded 100% agave Tequila, with over 200 years of family expertise distilled into every drop. We thought it only fitting to bring this craftsmanship to a new kind of experience.”

“The past two years have robbed us of overseas travel and with borders reopening, we were inspired to bring the essence of travel to life in a new, multi-sensorial way.”

  • The ‘Afar’ fragrance features top notes of agave, the key ingredient in this 100% Blue Weber Agave Tequila, as well as grapefruit, lemon and verbena, supported by middle and base notes of green leaves, sea salt, florals, cearwood and sandalwood.
  • The ‘Afar’ edible spritz includes 1800 Silver Tequila, papaya, grapefruit and lime flavours.

Both are designed to be enjoyed together, with the scents of the fragrance complemented by the spritz when lightly added to the bespoke signature 1800 cocktail – designed by Dixon to perfectly pair with the perfume and spritz experience.

Samantha Taylor from The Powder Room said, “it was an incredible experience to work with Hayley and the 1800 Tequila team in creating the ‘Afar’ fragrance and spritz.”

“We have all missed international travel and the home of Tequila was the perfect inspiration to recreate it through smell and taste”.

‘Afar’ can be experienced by visiting @1800tequila.au on Instagram and entering the competition on their page.

Dixon’s bespoke cocktail recipe featuring the ‘Afar’ edible spritz:
Ingredients:

40ml 1800 Silver
20ml Apricot Nectar 
15ml Sugar
35ml Lemon
1 Dash Angostura Bitters
3ml Absinthe 
45ml Dry Tonic 
Dehydrated Pineapple & a spritz of ‘Afar’ Edible Cocktail Spritz, to garnish

Method:
Build ingredients in a highball glass over ice. Top with tonic water. Garnish with dried pineapple and generously spritz with your Afar Edible Cocktail Spritz to transport you to a warm distant shore.

Jungle Cruise Filming Locations

Inspired by the eponymous Disneyland ride in California, Jungle Cruise tells the action-packed story of Dr. Lily Houghton’s cross-Amazon adventure to seek a mystical healing tree. (It helps that her partner is skipper Frank Wolff, better-known as Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.) Much of the filming took place in a studio but selected scenes were shot on-location in Kauai and Lihue, with the special effects team taking a leaf from lush Hawaiian and Amazonian landscapes.

1. Wailua River State Park, Kauai
The film’s Brazilian town of Porto Belo was largely inspired by the pristine coastlines and bubbling brooks of Lihue, with Wailua River State Park and the majestic Wailua Falls forming key feature backdrops throughout the film. It’s easy to feel like you’re in the movie—just set off on one of many kayaking and hiking tours along the Wailua River, or expand your horizons with exhilarating ATV tours, scenic helicopter rides, or sightseeing boat tours. There’s something for everyone.

2. Huleia National Wildlife Refuge, Kauai
A few scenes were filmed within this private compound next to the surging Huleia River, where Hawaiian coots, endangered nene goose, and other iconic birdlife nestle throughout jungle plains. While the refuge is closed to the public, the best way to get close to Jungle Falls is through a kayaking and hiking tour along Huleia Stream. Pro tip: you can also admire bustling wildlife and lush canopies from the Menehune Fish Pond Lookout just a 6-minute drive away.

3. Kauai Plantation Railway, Kauai
Locals perk up at the opening scene of the film, when Lily and Frank arrive in Porto Belo on a train clearly inspired by Kauai’s own plantation railway. Located next to the historic courtyards of the Kilohana Plantation Estate, this railway is one of the most family-friendly places in Kauai, with hourly train rides running daily and feeding farm stops along the way. Bundle your trip with a traditional Luau (feast) experience complete with live performances from flame twirlers and hula dancers right on the plantation grounds.

Get to know the Austria Hotel Collection

As a responsible host country, Austria has tried to stem the increased COVID-19 infection rate with a series of health measures over the last several weeks. Unfortunately, on Monday, November 22, Austria entered a snap lockdown for 20 days which will end on December 13. We are confident that Austria will be able provide a safe travel experience during winter and beyond. Find the current safety regulations HERE.

And when it's safe again, your clients need a place to rest their head!
Finding the right accommodation can sometimes be tricky. A great hotel can take a holiday from fun to unforgettable! To make the best choice for your clients, we have bundled up a selection of hotels for the Australian market. These are the properties we know that Aussies like and keep coming back to. Spread all over the country, The Austria Hotel Collection is your go-to guide for accommodation in Austria.

Scroll down to download your free copy of the Austria Collection Magazine!

Download now

Best Hotels in Vienna
Vienna bursts with culture, art, and great hotels. We picked the most innovative, storied, luxurious, and homey options for our Hotel Collection all over town: from grand and opulent to the latest sleek design hotels.

Find out more

Best Hotels around Salzburg
When you hear Tirol, you might think of mountains, felt hats, and long sunny hikes. You can almost certainly track down all three at these spectacular hotels, which take their Tirolean spirit seriously.

Find out more

Best Hotels in Tirol
Salzburg's countryside is best known for its otherworldly beauty with hotels amidst stunning nature. Locations range from charming resorts in lakeside hamlets to cosy hotels in Alpine valleys!

Find out more

Austrian National Tourist Office Sydney
If you have any questions, please contact us!
Phone: +61 9299 3621
Email: sydney@austria.info

Global superstar Alicia Keys will perform live at Expo 2020

Alicia Keys will take centre stage on 10th December as our first global music artist to perform in the Infinite Nights series as she ‘unlocks’ her new double album, ‘Keys’.

This global livestream will be broadcast live and will feature Alicia Keys performing a bespoke show at Expo 2020.

Celebrating 20 years of outstanding musical success, Alicia Keys will perform a combination of her biggest anthems as well as ‘unlock’ a selection of new material from her new album.

Aligned with Expo’s subtheme of Opportunity, which strives to unlock the potential of individuals and communities to shape the future, Keys’ concert promises to deliver uplifting messages with a human touch.

This dazzling new show will be streamed live to millions of fans around the world, with many ways for you to be part of it.

Visitors wishing to attend Alicia Keys’ ‘Infinite Nights’ show are advised to arrive early at Al Wasl Plaza.

The concert will also be livestreamed on VirtualExpoDubai.com, Expo TV on YouTube, Expo 2020’s Facebook page and Oculus VR (Virtual Reality).

Don’t miss this global icon live at Expo 2020.

10 December 2021, 22:00 UAE

Discover more

NEW WESTERN SYDNEY OUTDOOR MUSIC FESTIVAL IS ON ITS WAY

The ARIA award winning band, The Rubens will perform alongside a stellar line-up of Aussie artists next February at Camden’s Onslow Oval as part of a new outdoor music festival, ValleyWays.

Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the ValleyWays festival would deliver a new cultural experience for Camden, enhance the region’s tourism offering and create local jobs.

“ValleyWays is a boost to live music culture throughout Western Sydney and gives visitors another reason to add Camden to their calendar of places to visit this summer,” Mr Ayres said.

“Our investment in this event for 2022 and 2023 supports our COVID-19 Road to Recovery program by assisting with event operational costs so that organisers can offer the most affordable tickets. It also aligns with the Visitor Economy Strategy 2030 and Western Sydney Visitor Economy Strategy to deliver new events to attract local and interstate visitors.

“ValleyWays will bring some of our country’s most popular artists to Western Sydney and give the industry the opportunity to get back out and do what it does best – entertaining audiences and supporting the next generation of Aussie talent,” Mr Ayres said.

The Rubens said: "We are so thrilled to be putting on a big outdoor festival in the town we all grew up in! Our community has been big supporters of the band over the last 10 years, and this is our way of giving back. ValleyWays will bring the best music to our own backyard, and we hope to do this for many years to come!"

The Rubens will be joined by headliners Skegss, Middle Kids and Slowly Slowly. The line-up of supporting artists includes Stevan, Becca Hatch and Hollie Col.

For further information and to purchase tickets visit here.

Carnival Cruise Line Australia announces new program of cruises and itineraries for 2023-24, providing $300+ million domestic tourism boost

With an eye toward the eventual restart of guest operations in 2022, Carnival Cruise Line has today announced its ambitious 2023-2024 cruise program. Offering a potential boost of over a third of a billion dollars ($300 million+*) to the domestic tourism economy, the new program will assist Australia’s recovery from the shutdown in tourism over the past 18 months.

Featuring 115 sailings for cruise fans leaving from Sydney and Brisbane, guests cruising on board both Carnival Splendor and Carnival Spirit will have the opportunity to experience 66 breathtaking domestic sailings.

Providing even more opportunities for guests to take a quick and easy getaway, 20 short cruises have been included as part of the program, including relaxing weekend escapes and trips to picturesque destinations such as Moreton Island, Airlie Beach and the Great Barrier Reef.

Highlights of the itinerary program include two cruises to majestic Papua New Guinea, allowing guests to visit a number of stunning ports including Alotau, Kitava and the Conflict Islands.

On sale from the 22 November 2021, highlight fares include:

Carnival Splendor

● Three-day Weekend Sampler from $382 per person, interior twin – based on 5 October 2023 sailing
● Four days Sydney to Moreton Island from $518 per person, interior twin – based on 28 March 2024 sailing
● Eight days Sydney to the South Pacific from $814 per person, interior twin – based on 28 April 2024 sailing
● 10 days Sydney to the Great Barrier Reef from $1,139 per person, interior twin – based on 8 October 2023 sailing

Carnival Spirit
● Three-day Weekend Sampler from $397 per person, interior twin – based on 9 May 2024 sailing
● Four days Brisbane to Airlie Beach from $538 per person, interior twin – based on 29 May 2024 sailing
● Seven days Brisbane to the South Pacific from $789 per person, interior twin – based on 5 November 2023 sailing
● 11 days Brisbane to Fiji from $1,219 per person, interior twin – based on 18 February 2024 sailing

Kara Glamore, Vice President of Carnival Cruise Line Australia said: “After an incredibly challenging two years for the Australian travel industry, it was extremely important for us at Carnival to invest in the local economy with our 2023-2024 program. Carnival ships have called Australia home for nearly a decade and during that time, we have welcomed over one million guests onboard. That’s why for the first time 60% of our cruises will be across ANZ, with the remaining 40% visiting the South Pacific. We know Aussies are hungry to keep exploring their backyard and with over one hundred sailings between June 2023 and June 2024, we’ll be sure to have a cruise for you.”

*As defined by passenger, ship and crew expenditures.

LIBRARY AND BRICKMAN UNITE TO CREATE STATE LIBRARY BRICKTORIA

This summer, State Library Victoria will become State Library Bricktoria when it plays host to an array of LEGO® inspired activities in partnership with The Brickman, Australia’s only LEGO® Certified Professional, from Monday 10 January until Sunday 6 February 2022.

The program invites Library enthusiasts and lovers of the bright little bricks to rediscover the Library through a series of vibrant events and experiences.

Highlights include watching The Brickman’s team build a two-by-one metre LEGO® brick model of the Library; taking a treasure hunt through the Library to collect six bespoke LEGO® brick builds to create a take-home memento; adding bricks to the massive Mystery Mosaics image; an adults-only Bricks & Beats party and the chance to meet The Brickman himself.

Developed in close collaboration between The Brickman and the Library team, the activities are designed to inspire curiosity and collaboration, as well as guide participants through the Library’s spaces, learning about the building’s history and secrets along the way.

State Library Victoria Acting CEO, Sarah Slade, said she’s thrilled to present such a colourful program to Victorians this summer.

“Throughout its 165-year history, State Library Victoria has always sought to inspire learning and creativity. You can come into the Library searching for one thing, which leads you to another and another. We have over five million items in the collection which often leads you down a veritable rabbit hole of research,” Ms Slade said.

“Playing with LEGO® bricks invites a similar kind of curiosity – you start with one piece and you never know where that may lead. You could end up with a multi-story police station, a farm, or a Library! So it’s with great excitement that we are partnering with The Brickman to bring such a colourful program of events to Melbourne this summer.

“It’s been a tough couple of years for all of us in Victoria, and we are so excited to welcome Victorians back to the city and back to the Library.”

LEGO® Certified Professional, Ryan "The Brickman" McNaught said the Library is the perfect place for his next project.

“It’s no secret that I am incredibly passionate about making things out of LEGO® bricks. So, to be able to share my passion with thousands of Victorians just as we emerge from lockdown is really exciting,” The Brickman said.

“This program of events and activities will spark the imagination of the young and the young-at-heart. There is something for everyone, so no matter where you live or how old you are, this is the perfect opportunity to come and explore, create and play, to discover the Library through a whole new lens – and share in my love of these brightly coloured bricks.”

For more information go to slv.vic.gov.au

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA is coming to the Sydney Lyric from October!

Don't miss the Tony Award-winning Musical from the creators of The Sound of Music when it comes to the Sydney Lyric Theatre from 23 Oct 2022.

Starring Shubshri Kandiah as Ella (Cinderella), Ainsley Melham as the charming Prince Topher, Silvie Paladino as the Fairy Godmother, Marie, Tina Bursill as Madame, Ella’s stepmother, and Todd McKenney as Sebastian Prince Topher’s Lord Chancellor.

This lush production features incredible orchestrations, jaw-dropping transformations and all the moments you love—the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more—plus some surprising new twists!

Be transported as you rediscover some of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible/It’s Possible” and “Ten Minutes Ago” in this hilarious and romantic experience for anyone who’s ever had a dream.

Don’t miss the Tony Award® winning Broadway musical from the creators of The Sound of Music that delighted Broadway audiences with its surprisingly contemporary take on the classic tale.

Cinderella Musical

Monday 29 November 2021

No Time To Die Filming Locations

As the 25th installment of the Bond series, No Time To Die marks actor Daniel Craig’s final appearance as classic spy James Bond. This time, the MI6 agent retires to tranquil Jamaica—the birthplace of Bond, where Ian Fleming wrote the original novels. Italy and Scotland feature as scenic backdrops to chase sequences and stunts throughout the film.

1. Matera, Italy
The opening car chase scene kicks off in Matera with Bond’s car speeding into figure-eight donuts, guns ablazing. Known as the “City of the Dead,” Matera spiritually echoes Vesper Lynd’s departure from Bond’s life in the previous film. Explore the town’s hollowed grottoes and mountainside dwellings on a private walking tour with locals, where you’ll learn how this ancient warren-turned-World Heritage Site became Italy’s hidden gem. Travellers say Cripta del Peccato Originale and Parco delle Chiese Rupestri di Matera are ruins worth revisiting.

2. Port Antonio, Jamaica
Just outside Port Antonio, Bond’s open-air retirement villa stands alone at the coastline, perfectly remote whilst staying within the reaches of civilization—exactly like his previous retirement location in Skyfall. And Bond might be on to something: Port Antonio offers both jungle and beach activities, making it the ideal vacation (and retirement!) destination. A bus tour to Reach Falls and a rafting cruise along Blue Lagoon are choice ways to start exploring, but you could also do it all in a 2-in-1 tour if you’re adventurous enough.

3. Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
It’s not Bond without thrilling chases and stunts—and that’s where the lush mountains of Cairngorms enter the frame. A chase takes Bond through various areas of the U.K.’s largest park, specifically across Aviemore for its incredible forestry, and later across the countryside estate of Ardverikie along the shores of Loch Laggan. Walking trails, biking routes, and nature reserves are aplenty amid the moorland; this Loch Ness Glencoe and Highlands group tour takes you there, with stops at Glencoe, Cairngorms, and Fort Augustus along the way.

Winter exclusive “Hot Spring Foot Soak” with Tombo-no-yu, Karuizawa

Warm the body with a hot spring foot soak while taking a sip of local sake

Tombo-no-yu, a day-trip destination in Nagano Prefecture, will be offering Hot Spring Foot Soak from 11 November 2021 to 28 February 2022. A winter exclusive experience where guests can enjoy a private foot soak and a cup of local sake paired with finger food. The winter scenery of Karuizawa creates atmospheric moments where guests can relax and warm up their body under the crisp air.

Background
In Japan, communal foot baths can be found in major hot spring towns but here at Tombo-no-yu in Hoshino Area of Karuizawa, guests can enjoy a private foot soak with a cup of local sake. This program was developed in the hopes to offer different ways of enjoying the abundant spring water of Japan.

Characteristics of Hot Spring Foot Soak
1)Refreshing foot soak in the open air

In the forest square in the afternoon in winter, guests can enjoy a foot soak of hot spring water from Tombo-no-yu, which is known for its property of beautifying skin. The spring water will be filled in individual Japanese wooden pails for an enjoyable time in nature. Guests can choose to participate by themselves or with friends and family, up to a maximum of 3 people. By soaking the feet into the footbath, the body can be warmed up from the core, allowing the mind and body to be refreshed.

2)Warming the body with local sake paired with finger foods

Nagano Prefecture has more than 75 sake breweries, which is second-most in Japan back in 2018. Our staff will explain about the breweries and the characteristics of several sake, where guests can enjoy a choice of their own for the afternoon. Finger foods use fermented products and root vegetables, which are both ingredients that can warm the body. Finger foods include burdock flavored using ginger and konbu kelp, Japanese pickles of red turnip, local smoked salmon, and egg marinated in miso sauce, a byproduct created in the process of making miso paste and similar to soy sauce. Warm sake with these finger foods will be served in a wooden pail, for a fun winter experience.

3)Perfect temperatures of foot soak and local sake!
Depending on the temperature of that day, our Tombo-no-yu staff will adjust the temperature of the spring water for the foot soak as well as maintain the temperature of the foot soak by bringing additional spring water for a warm foot bath throughout the program. The temperature of the sake will be maintained by serving it with a hot bath.

Hot Spring Foot Soak in a glance

Period: 15 November 2021 – 28 February 2022
Time: 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Place: On the premise of Tombo-no-yu
Price: 3,000 JPY per person (includes tax)
Price includes: footbath set, towel, local sake (180 ml), finger foods
Capacity: 1 group per day (maximum of 3 people per group)
Reservation: required 2 days in advance
Others: In case of rain or snow, this program may be cancelled
Snacks is subject to change depending on its availability

About Tombo-no-yu
Hot spring facility with both indoor and outdoor baths as well as saunas for hotel guests and day visitors to enjoy.

Address: Hoshino, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano 389-0194
Opening Hours: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm (Last admission at 9: 15 pm)
Price: 1,350 JPY for adults, 800 JPY for children (includes tax and hot spring tax)
Directions: Approximately 15 minutes by car from JR Karuizawa Station
Website: https://www.hoshino-area.jp/en

Hoshino Resorts
https://www.hoshinoresorts.com/en/

GET READY TO TAKE A GAP YEAR 2.0 - THE EMERGING TRAVEL TREND IN AUSTRALIA

  • A new travel trend emerges in Australia dubbed the Gap Year 2.0
  • To enable Aussies to take a Gap Year 2.0 Toyota Australia identifies top unseen destinations in Australia in time for the launch of All-new Toyota LandCruiser 300

Dubbed “Gap Year 2.0”, the new travel trend stems from a global travel movement that is being embraced by many, with people now more so than ever able to change up the conventional way of life and live on the road.

With lockdowns across the globe and the majority of businesses having to operate remotely since 2020, people have been contemplating living life less traditional. The idea of the traditional “nomad” is no longer a trend just for the privileged few prior to the pandemic.

Evidently, Aussies share the similar desire to see the country on the road at a time when conventional vacation travel is still difficult:
  • In August this year, some popular outback routes saw record-high visitor numbers, according to Main Roads West Australia records show Broome Road recording around 3,000 vehicles per day, an increase around 25% consistently over the year.
  • The recent ABS "Household Impacts of COVID-19" survey[i] echoes the trend with the ability to travel (24%) as one of the top motivators for receiving the COVID-19 vaccination and over the next 12 months, more than one in three (32%) Australians plan to use their current or expected savings on travel.

Dr Nick Hookway Senior Lecturer in Sociology at the University of Tasmania said “While a gap year is traditionally taken by people in their teen or early twenties, we will see more adults experimenting with new ways of working and living on the move.”

“We call this Gap Year 2.0. Gap Year 2.0 refers to how diverse age groups are redesigning their lives by leaving traditional jobs and settled housing to become full-time travellers in Australia. While travelling Australia used to be mostly grey nomads and retirees, during COVID-19 it has become more common among young families and middle-aged demographics.”

“It is powered by international travel restrictions and new digital freedoms to create and work-on-the-move". “It can also be located as part of wider ongoing social changes, including the decline of work as a key source of identity, the centrality of leisure and lifestyle to contemporary lives and a growing cultural emphasis on personal reinvention.”

“COVID-19 has also intensified questions about what it means to live a meaningful and purposeful life, so we can see Gap Year 2.0 as a direct response to that existential anxiety answered through leisure and lifestyle reinvention.”

Travel expert, Quentin Long understands the increasing appeal of the great Australian road trip since the pandemic.

"The great Australian road trip is so much a part of our psyche that Aussies feel best when we 'hit the road' on a road trip. The travel restrictions since pandemic made us appreciate our own backyard more. And It’s hard to appreciate the size, scale and sheer magnificent diversity of this great country without driving it.”

“Whatever Aussies seek from travel, they will find it on an epic trip around our country. There’s so much to discover from secret beaches - under stated world class foodie discoveries - wondrous cultural journeys - beach town coastal safari's - to remote off the grid escapes to nowhere.”

To enable Aussies to embark on their own version of "Gap Year 2.0" or to just simply take a break from their conventional way of life, Toyota Australia has identified top unseen destinations in Australia in time for the launch of All-New Toyota LandCruiser 300, with the help of its loyal Toyota drivers and travel expert, Quentin Long.

1. Five Beaches Track, Somerset, Cape York Peninsula
2. Lake Pedder, Tasmania
3. Billy Goat Bluff Track, The High Country, Victoria
4. Pender Bay Escape, Western Australia
5. Secret Springs, Kunnunura, West Australia
6. Sturt Steps touring route, NSW
7. Explorers’ Way, South Australia to Northern Territory
8. Canning Stock Route, West Australia
9. Lost City, Blue Mountains, NSW
10. Chace Ranges Flinders Ranges, South Australia

For more information on the All-New Toyota LandCruiser visit: https://www.toyota.com.au/landcruiser-300

SOUTH DAKOTA: Home to Chislic and Where Gravity May Not Apply

Cosmos Mystery Area: image Travel South Dakota
Chislic: South Dakota’s official state “nosh” or appetizer. These bite-sized cubes of seasoned meat (usually beef or mutton) are either fried or grilled on wooden skewers and can be found on pub and restaurant menus across the state. Popular chislic variations are served at Urban Chislic in Sioux Falls and Meridian Corner in Freeman or Minervas Restaurant & Bar and Dakotah Steakhouse in Rapid City. Those visiting South Dakota at the end of July can join thousands of chislic enthusiasts at the annual South Dakota Chislic Festival in Freeman.

Buffalo Brekky, Lunch or Dinner washed down with Pickle Beer
Buffalo burgers, steaks and more:
South Dakota produces the largest number of bison for farming in the United States due to the animal’s nativity to the Great Plains. Chances are if your Rapid City dining location has burgers, they’ll also have a bison burger option like at Firehouse Brewing Co. Beyond burgers, head to Tally’s Silver Spoon for breakfast and enjoy buffalo hanger steak and eggs. For lunch or dinner, try Murphey’s Pub & Grill for savory buffalo meatloaf.
 
Pickle beer: Simply add a pickle spear to your favorite light draft beer to enjoy an iconic South Dakota drink – an odd combination (unless you’re from the state) that you can find at any sports bar. Or, if you’d rather try small-batch local brews, Rapid City is home to the largest collection of craft breweries on the western side of the state.

Cosmos Mystery Area
Gravity seems completely out of balance in a unique wooded spot where balls roll uphill, volunteers sit on walls and people change heights on level ground. Located 17 miles south of Rapid City on Highway 16, Cosmos is open April through October.

For more information on South Dakota, visit TravelSouthDakota.com.

Check out our Australian & New Zealand websites and our Facebook page for more great photos and information about the Great American West.

BEN BOYD NATIONAL PARK TO BE RENAMED

Ben Boyd National Park
Ben Boyd National Park on NSW’s far south coast will be renamed in the language of Traditional Custodians to recognise the Aboriginal cultural heritage of the area.

Environment Minister Matt Kean said the decision followed requests from Aboriginal communities to rename the park due to Ben Boyd’s association with ‘blackbirding’, a practice that involved the coercion of people through deception or kidnapping to work as slaves or poorly paid labourers.

“It is time to acknowledge the real history of Ben Boyd and remove his name from the national park that continues to hold enormous cultural significance for Aboriginal people,” Mr Kean said.

“It is clear from the expert historical analysis, that Ben Boyd’s association with ‘blackbirding’ should not be reflected or celebrated in any way in our National Parks.

“There are many people from NSW’s early history who are worth remembering and celebrating, but it is clear from this historical analysis that Ben Boyd is not one of them.

“By re-naming the park, we not only celebrate ancient Aboriginal culture but also recognise its importance to Aboriginal people in recent history.”

Consultation with Elders, Aboriginal community representatives and Australian South Sea Islander representatives to identify a new name will commence soon.

On agreement, National Parks and Wildlife Service will present the proposed new name to the Geographic Names Board seeking approval and gazettal of the new name.

More information can be found here and here.

The top destinations Aussies are willing to quit their jobs for this summer

After two years of cancelled holidays, screen fatigue, and globetrotting only via Zoom backgrounds, it’s clear Aussies are determined to break free of the 9-5 life and get back to exploring the world with a carpe diem mindset.

New research from Contiki* reveals 70% of young Aussies are rethinking their current career with desire to travel (50%), burn out (40%) and wanting to enjoy new experiences (44%) being the top contributors.

With an urge to clean their desk and clear their mind, the pressure facing burnt out workers has sparked the ‘The Great Resignation’, with many anticipated to change roles, or start new careers entirely as they desire change and variety.

The research reveals over 1 in 10 (13%) of 18-35 year olds confirm they will hand in their notice and resign for travel in 2022. A further 19% admit they would quit if the right destination calls – Goodnight Sydney, Buongiorno Ragazzi Roma.

Switching a business suit for a bathing suit
While hot-desking policies provide a great opportunity to travel to different places, the nation can’t seem to shake the appeal of jumping on a plane, with 61% of Aussies committing to making international travel a priority in 2022.

From paralegals who’d rather be paragliding to plumbers with nothing but blocked holiday plans – adventurous Aussies are excited to get back out exploring, with the most appealing activities being a European getaway (54%), Greek Island hopping (34%) and spending time living on a yacht (30%).

The top incentives drawing Aussies towards travelling as restrictions ease are:
To seek new experiences (73%)
To feel happiness (61%)
To explore the world (60%)
To make memories (58%)
To experience other cultures (56%)

When it comes to taking the plunge and departing ways with their boss, over three-quarters (77%) feel nervous, revealing they are turning to loved ones, co-workers and even social media for advice on how to break the news.

However, millennials are willing to break the news in style with 5% willing to quit their job via a TikTok video if it meant they could set sail for Santorini.

#QuitForContiki
To alleviate some of the pressures facing Aussies when quitting their job, Contiki has prepared a tongue-in-cheek one-stop destination to quit in style.

From pre-recorded voicemails, to a bye-bye auto-reply, #QuitForContiki is a suite of ready-to-go resignation materials to help Australians trade the tools for travel, without the added stress of how to break the news.

For those ready to announce their promotion as Chief Traveller, the resignation toolkit includes:
  • A good old resignation letter to keep it classy
  • A PowerPoint full of charts
  • The bye-bye auto-reply, an out of office but make it forever
  • A LinkedIn announcement to let the world know
  • Pre-recorded voice messages for those with no time for email
  • A break up SMS – stone cold but you have bags to pack

DJ Tigerlily, supporter of #QuitforContiki, is eager to help her fellow Aussies make fulfilling lifestyle changes by switching on their OOO, forever.

“If you’re feeling the fatigue of everyday life, there is no better time to take a leap and focus on what truly matters: new experiences and meaningful friendships. Whether you’re someone who likes to keep it classy with a handwritten letter – or you’re stone cold and bold enough to send a break-up text, the #QuitForContiki materials do the hard work for you.”

“With all details sorted and a group full of like-minded friends in the making, Contiki offers a perfect opportunity to experience the world hassle-free.”

Katrina Barry, Managing Director of Contiki, said she hopes the Quit online hub will help Aussies reclaim a sense of adventure.

“Travelling the world is a rite of passage for many young Aussies, and after the past few years, many have missed out. It’s now more important than ever for people to get back into the world and experience travel – Contiki style. Whether it’s swimming in a private pool at a French château or island hopping in Greece, the European summer is welcoming adventurous Aussies with open arms. For those bitten by the travel bug, we’ve launched a range of new experiences to inspire in 2022.”

To guide your work breakup, the free tongue-in-cheek Quit for Contiki resignation toolkit is available to access via contiki.com/quit.

*Research was conducted by Pureprofile on behalf of Contiki on a nationwide sample of over 1,500 Australians aged 18–35 years old from 15 November to 18 November.

What’s included in the free guide?

The #QuitforContiki materials are available to access via contiki.com/quit.

About Contiki’s European tours: Visit the Contiki website to learn more

Contiki European tours:
  • Ultimate European – the one that does it big, all of Europe topped off with the Greek Islands
  • European Trail – the one that trails through Europe’s bucket-list musts and lesser-known secrets
  • Greek Island Hopping – the one that gives you the ultimate Greek Island experience exploring Mykonos, Paros, Santorini and Ios
  • European Discovery – the one that uncovers Europe’s finest in 12 days, complete with fairy lights and Christmas markets
  • European Whirl – the one that combines history, adventure, natural beauty, food and fun times over 18 days
  • European Highlights – the one that does Europe’s best bucket-list destinations in two weeks
  • Great Britain & Ireland – the one that gives you the best of British culture, topped off with the Emerald Isle
  • European Escapade – the one that ticks off all your bucket-list cities including Barcelona over one unforgettable month
  • European Inspiration – the one that says Bonjour, Ciao and Hallo to 10 countries in 19 days featuring Rome, Prague and Berlin
  • European Encounter – the one that ticks off highlight European cities over 16 days

New Contiki European tours:

Norway Fjords & Northern Lights – the one that sets sail for the awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis
Tuscan Escape – the one that stirs your passion for authentic Italian life under the Tuscan sun

About Contiki:
Contiki are the world leaders in travel experiences for 18-35’s. We’re about discovery, once-in-a-lifetime moments, human connections, and making every second of being young count. We run over 300 trips in 50 plus countries, each and every one designed to get to the beating heart of a destination, understanding the local way of life and unearthing No Regrets experiences. A member of the family-owned The Travel Corporation (TTC), we are renowned and trusted for our outstanding quality, service, value, reliability and financial stability. Want to know more? Visit www.contiki.com

FOLLOWING IN DAD’S FOOTSTEPS THE WOLFE BROTHERS WIN THE P&O PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD

The Wolfe Brothers
Few country artists are shining brighter in the world right now than Tassie country-rock duo, The Wolfe Brothers. And the boys from the Apple Isle have added yet another accolade to their growing trophy cabinet, being crowned the winner of the 2021 P&O Cruises People’s Choice Award for their recent awe-inspiring performance at Groundwater CMF 2021. 

However, this award, and the opportunity to perform on P&O’s Country Music Festival at Sea, is particularly special for Nick and Tom Wolfe. Their late father, Malcolm “Mildoo” Wolfe was the drummer in the band Midnight Revival and regularly played on P&O cruise ships in the ’70s, so Nick and Tom are thrilled to be following in their Dad’s footsteps.

Tom Wolfe said: “When we were growing up our Dad often spoke so fondly about the wonderful memories he had of playing on the P&O cruise ships. The fact that we now could be following in his footsteps makes us incredibly proud. What makes this People’s Choice Award win even sweeter is the fact that it was the fans who attended the Groundwater Country Music Festival who voted for us to make this happen. If the old man was still with us he would just LOVE this!”

Hear directly from the boys here

Last week Groundwater Country Music Festival (CMF) brought country to the coast, from 12 – 14 November, with an incredible line-up of home-grown country artists taking to the streets and venues of Broadbeach on the Gold Coast.

The competition invited the mammoth crowd of country music lovers who attended Groundwater CMF last weekend to vote and share their love for their favourite artist of the festival. The competition was hugely successful with votes coming in thick and fast over the competition period.

If seeing three days of free live country music wasn’t enough, everyone who cast their vote also went in the running to win three nights in an ocean view room for two people onboard a P&O Country Music Festival at Sea cruise in 2022.

P&O Cruises Australia’s Head of Entertainment Brett Annable said he was delighted to welcome the Wolfe Brothers onboard P&O’s Country Festival Music at Sea in 2022.

“Country music continues to go from strength to strength in Australia and guests are eager to don their cowboy boots for next year’s country music-themed cruises. New for 2022, we have three-dedicated country music sailings departing Sydney, Brisbane, and Auckland, offering even more cruise fans the chance to enjoy an exciting lineup of country music from their doorstep,” Mr Annable said.

Get excited! Country music will be coming back to the Gold Coast on the 28-30th of October 2022.

Sunday 28 November 2021

Dune Filming Locations

Based on Frank Herbert’s grandiose sci-fi epic from the ’60s, Denis Villeneuve’s Dune takes us 20,000 years into the future to the desert planet of Arrakis, where hallucinogenic “spice melange” rolls freely over desert sands, plundered by the Great Houses for its rarity and role in intergalactic space travel. Desert scenes were shot on-location across Jordan and Abu Dhabi to showcase the natural beauty and hostility of Arrakis’ harsh desert climate.

1. Rab al Khali, 
Only the largest desert in the world could be the perfect dwelling for Dune’s colossal sandworms lurking just beneath the surface. Most of the ornithopter and sandworm chase scenes were filmed here, owing to the miles of undisturbed landscape in every direction. Dune bash your way around on a 4WD desert safari complete with a unique private dining experience— the incredible landscapes are sure to blow you away (no sandworms included).

2. Wadi Rum, Jordan
Villeneuve chose Wadi Rum for its sprawling granite outcroppings—ideal dwellings for Arrakis’ native tribes, the Fremen. These ancient and expansive landscapes are best explored on heart-pumping 4WD tours—but should you have the time, set off on a 3-day tour that covers Jordan’s other spectacular destinations, including the Dead Sea and Petra. Just remember: the Fremen are watching...

3. Nordjford, Norway
Look no further than the peninsular region of Nordjford Coast to glimpse the ocean homeworld of Caladan, where Paul Atreides watches a forlorn sunset before leaving for his new life in Arrakis. Surrounded by ice-blue waters and mountainous plateaus, this picturesque fjord is located between the North Sea and the Norwegian Sea. Cover glacial terrains and dramatic coastlines in the greater Nordjford and Sunnmøre area on a 7-day fjord hiking adventure by Holiday Norway.

A local Artisan reveals some of the secrets of Asakusabashi with valuable info on Special Shops that Tourists may appreciate

Yosuke Oishi - Leather craftsman
After graduating from high school in his native Hokkaido, Yosuke Oishi came to Tokyo to study clothing and textiles. Working with classic leather designs, he set up shop in Asakusabashi where he deals in finely crafted leather goods and also imparts his skills to others at workshops.

The large number of shops specializing in bags and beadwork reflects Asakusabashi's history as Tokyo's leather goods district. It's great to see the area's many shops alive with shoppers in search of supplies and handicrafts.

“Tokyo Heat Remedy Stay” at HOSHINOYA Tokyo

Rejuvenate with outer and inner care of the body this winter by keeping warm through Japanese-style archery, spa treatments, and restorative meals.

HOSHINOYA Tokyo, a contemporary Japanese ryokan, will be offering “Tokyo Heat Remedy Stay” from 1 December 2021 to 28 February 2022. This stay program to enjoy winter in Tokyo was inspired by the teachings of lifestyles back in the Edo period. In the Edo period when there were only a few ways to keep warm, people adopted various ways of life to keep warm during the cold winter days. Instead of enduring the cold, people deliberately went outside to enjoy the cold. Guests can join an early morning session of Japanese-style archery, which was inspired by kangeiko (literally cold training) that samurai in the Edo period practiced training their mind and body. The program also includes private use of the public hot springs located on the 17th floor after the archery practice, a spa treatment that uses warm basalt stone, and restorative meals to warm the body internally and externally.

Background
In the Edo period, when winter was colder than it is today, people in Edo used heating equipment that uses charcoal, kotatsu (a table with a heater underneath and covered by a quilt), and other heating equipment to keep the cold winter warm. Also, it is said that, instead of staying inside the house, people deliberately went outside to enjoy the winter cold by practicing martial arts in the morning or drinking alcohol outdoors while watching the snow. This program was developed in the hopes for people to enjoy the cold and to spend both a relaxing and active time in winter instead of staying in a room with a heating system.

Characteristics of Tokyo Heat Remedy Stay
1)Early morning Japanese-style archery

The area of Otemachi, where HOSHINOYA Tokyo is located, is now an office district full of high-rise buildings, but during the Edo period, there were many samurai residences since it was close to Edo Castle, which is now known as the Imperial Palace. Samurai of the Edo period learned various martial arts such as archery, horsemanship, swordsmanship, spearmanship, etc. and they practiced them every day to perfect their skill. It is said that in winter, when the cold was severe, people trained from the early morning, instead of escaping from the cold, in order to strengthen their mental strength as well.

Ogasawara-ryu school of Japanese archery, horsemanship, and etiquette, which used to have a school in Kanda, Edo, is the supervisor of this archery practice and will be practiced for 2 days. On the first day, the basics of walking and sitting, the preparation for archery, and how to pull the bow in the right posture will be taught with respect to the manners of the Ogasawara way.

On the second day, an early morning session of Japanese-style archery will be practiced. Dressed in a special outfit in the crisp winter air of quiet Otemachi before dawn, archery will be practiced by drawing a bow towards a wooden target. This program includes “Hosha,” which is usually held in a shrine as a ritual for warding off evil or praying for good luck, is held at Otemachi Nakadori, just outside of the premise, where high-rise buildings line up. Whilst staying calm archery will be practiced with a focus on posture and manners taught on the previous day. By making use of the whole body, the body will be warmed up from the inside.

2)Private use of the public hot spring on the 17th floor

After practicing archery, guests can enjoy a relaxing soak in the public hot spring privately, which is only available to those participating in this program. The public hot spring, separated by gender, is located on the 17th floor of HOSHINOYA Tokyo and the natural spring water is pumped from 1,500 meters below ground. By stretching during a soak in the hot springs, the tension of the muscles from archery practice can be loosened and relaxed. Guests can indulge in morning tranquility under the winter sunlight.

3)Spa treatment that uses warm basalt stone
After loosening the tension in the muscles through a soak in the hot springs, an original spa treatment using heated basalt stone will be performed. In the Edo period, when there were no heating devices, people used to warm their chest or stomach by putting warm stones wrapped in cloth into their pockets. This program incorporates this idea and places warmed basalt stone on the stomach, abdomen, back, and legs so that the heat is gradually transferred to the core of the body to warm up the entire body. By focusing on the arms, shoulders, and neck during the oil treatment, the muscles used for the archery experience can be relaxed.

4)Special breakfast using seasonal ingredients
On the second day, after the archery practice, a special breakfast using tofu, which is in season during winter, will be served. It is said that the tofu in winter is most nutritious and rich in flavor because it uses autumn soybeans, which are harvested in autumn. In addition, the Edo period was when portable cooking stoves were developed so different types of hot pot meals were popularized. In this program, guests can enjoy our original hot pot that was inspired by popular hot pots of the Edo period.

Example Stay Schedule
<Day 1>
3:00 pm Check-in
3:30 pm Japanese-style Archery Practice – Basics
6:00 pm Nippon Cuisine dinner course

<Day 2>
5:00 am Light breakfast of onigiri (flavored rice balls) and miso soup
5:30 am Archery experience at Otemachi Nakadori
7:30 am Private use of public hot springs
8:00 am Spa treatment using warm basalt stone
10:30 am Special breakfast meal
1:00 pm Check-out

Safety measures during archery experience at Otemachi Nakadori

・This outdoor archery experience at Otemachi Nakadori will be held under the permission of the landlord.
・A screen and a net will be placed around the target board, and this activity will be held with full consideration not to disturb passers-by.
・In case it is difficult to secure the safety of participants and passersby, we will cancel the event.

Tokyo Heat Remedy Stay in a glance
Period: 1 December 2021 – 28 February 2022
Price: 115,000 JPY for 1 person, 198,000JPY for 2 persons (includes tax and service charge, excludes accommodation fee)
Price includes: Japanese-style archery practice (2 times), Nippon Cuisine dinner course, light breakfast, the charter of hot spring facility, warmed basalt stone spa treatment, special breakfast meal
Capacity: 1 group per day (maximum of 2 people per group)
Available to: guests staying at HOSHINOYA Tokyo
Reservation: required 2 weeks in advance
Others: Schedule of the program is subject to change depending on the situations

About HOSHINOYA Tokyo

Address: 1-9-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0004
Price: Starts from 102,000 JPY per night per room (includes tax and service charge, excludes meals)
Number of Rooms: 84
Check-in: 3:00 pm / Check-out: 12:00 pm
Directions: Approximately 10 minutes by walk from Tokyo Station and 2-minute walk from Otemachi Station
Website: https://hoshinoya.com/tokyo/en/

About HOSHINOYA Brand

Luxury hotel embodying the true characteristics of land, history, and culture
HOSHINOYA is an accommodation with distinct themes, conceptualized from each location’s land, history, and culture. Woven into these distinct themes is our attention to detail in every aspect from the design to hospitality; contributing to the creation of a one-of-a-kind world of HOSHINOYA. Enrich the heart with the epiphanies of travel through a unique stay experience.

Hoshino Resorts
https://www.hoshinoresorts.com/en/

Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel Joins Anantara Brand Portfolio in Europe

Anantara New York Palace Budapest
Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas announces the addition of Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel to its portfolio, a debut in Hungary and a continuation of the brand’s European expansion. Situated in the heart of Budapest, one of the most unique and fascinating capital cities of Europe, the opulent property is an architectural ode to the Belle Époque era, exuding old-world glamour blended with contemporary luxury.

Since its construction in 1894, the palatial building has acted as a gathering place for Hungarian intellectuals and is located on the sophisticated Erzsébet Krt boulevard on the Pest side of the Danube River. Designed by famed Hungarian architect, Alajos Hauszmann, the property features Italian Renaissance, Baroque, Gothic and Art Nouveau influences.

Located just a 20-minute drive from Budapest International Airport, Anantara New York Palace is comprised of 185 guest rooms and suites, accented by centuries old art and antiques. The two Presidential Suites each boast 135 sqm of space bedecked with handmade Murano glass chandeliers, custom-designed furniture, luxurious marble bathrooms and signature Italian design features.

Currently undergoing its transition to the Anantara brand, Anantara New York Palace will introduce a full suite of Anantara hallmarks during the first half of 2022. The soft renovation will be completed in Spring 2022 and will reveal a glamorous new lobby, stylish rooms and the addition of the White Salon, a glitzy new restaurant serving quintessential Hungarian cuisine.

The hotel offers four distinct dining options; The New York Café, which with its frescoed ceilings and Venetian glass chandeliers is the beating heart of the property and reflects the passion and flair of Chef Andras Wolf, The Poet Bar, an intimate setting for after dinner drinks, the Deep Water Breakfast Room for an amazing start to the morning and the Atrium, a vibrant hub for socialising with exceptional cocktails.

Anantara New York Palace delivers a balance of bustling business hub and luxurious city discovery. Extensive meetings and events facilities cater to every kind of social and corporate function, boasting an elegant ballroom for up to 550 guests, to small, chic venues filled with natural light, adorned with baroque details and sleek conference centres designed by Iosa Ghini.

The addition of an Anantara Spa will offer an escape from the city with four treatment rooms and relaxation facilities. When it opens later in 2022, treatments will touch on the healing philosophies of Anantara’s Thai roots, with elements inspired by the thermal bath heritage of Budapest.

Thoughtful experiences will immerse guests in the history of the region with vintage VW Samba campervan excursions around the city and surrounding countryside as well as romantic cruises on the Danube river.

“We are thrilled to announce our first property in Hungary, the Anantara New York Palace is a gem offering unique architecture, rich history and heritage. The majestic hotel is a strategic step in the continued growth of Anantara in Europe and represents a great addition to the brand’s portfolio,” commented Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels, Anantara’s parent company

Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel joins the existing European Anantara portfolio – Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort, Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Marbella, and Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome.

Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel nightly rates start at €200 in a Deluxe Double room for two persons sharing on a B&B basis. For more information on Anantara New York Palace, visit https://www.anantara.com/en/new-york-palace-budapest.

About Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas
Anantara is a luxury hospitality brand for modern travellers, connecting them to genuine places, people and stories through personal experiences, and providing heartfelt hospitality in the world’s most exciting destinations. The collection of distinct, thoughtfully designed luxury hotels and resorts provides a window through which to journey into invigorating new territory, curating personal travel experiences.

From cosmopolitan cities to desert sands to lush islands, Anantara connects travellers to the indigenous, grounds them in authentic luxury, and hosts them with passionate expertise. The portfolio currently boasts over 40 stunning hotels and resorts located in Thailand, Maldives, Indonesia, Vietnam, China, Cambodia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Seychelles, Mozambique, Zambia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Tunisia, Portugal, Spain, Hungary and Italy, with a pipeline of future properties across Asia, the Middle East and Europe.

For more information on Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, please visit www.anantara.com.

Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/anantara; Twitter and Instagram: @anantara_hotels

Destination Mekong became a signatory and launch partner of the Glasgow Declaration on climate Action in Tourism

Destination Mekong became a proud signatory of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism at the COP26.

As part of its efforts to play a leadership role in the global tourism community, Destination Mekong became a signatory and launch partner of the Glasgow Declaration on climate Action in Tourism, which was launched on 4 November 2021 during the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26).

Founded in 2017, Destination Mekong (DM) is the regional tourism organization dedicated to championing the Mekong region, comprising Cambodia, PR China (Provinces of Guangxi and Yunnan), Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Viet Nam, as a sustainable and inclusive tourism destination.

The Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism unites travel and tourism behind a common set of pathways for climate action, aligning the sector with global commitments and catalyzing collaborative solutions to the many challenges facing businesses and destinations globally.

The Glasgow Declaration encourages the acceleration of climate action in tourism by securing commitments to reduce emissions in tourism by at least 50% over the next decade and achieve Net Zero as soon as possible before 2050.

As a signatory of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism, Destination Mekong has committed to aligning its actions with the latest scientific recommendations to ensure its approach remains consistent with a rise of no more than 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels by 2100. It also has agreed to deliver or update climate action plans within 12 months, align programs with the five pathways of the Declaration (Measure, Decarbonise, Regenerate, Collaborate, Finance), report publicly on an annual basis, and work in a collaborative spirit, sharing good practices and solutions, and disseminating informatio

“More than ever, the global tourism industry has a unique opportunity to demonstrate its transformative power through inspiring and driving climate action. It’s not only an emergency but also a matter of human dignity.” Catherine GERMIER-HAMEL, CEO, Destination Mekong

The Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism brings together the latest research and global expertise to galvanize climate action. It will be hosted within the One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme’s website, supported by Recommended Actions for tourism stakeholders across the world to consider as part of their action planning, alongside other resources. As the declaration states: “A just transition to Net Zero before 2050 will only be possible if tourism’s recovery accelerates the adoption of sustainable consumption and production, and redefines our future success to consider not only economic value but rather the regeneration of ecosystems, biodiversity, and communities.”

The need for a globally consistent approach for climate action in tourism has been made clear, notably through research into CO2 emissions carried out by UNWTO/ITF and released at the UNFCCC COP25 in December 2019. This showed that transport-related emissions from tourism were forecast to increase by 25% by 2030 from 2016 levels, against the current ambition scenario.

As the global tourism industry is slowly getting back on track, Destination Mekong (DM) has recently appointed a new Executive Team composed of Catherine Germier-Hamel as CEO, Gerrit Kruger as Chief Marketing Officer, Gavin Bell as Chief Development Officer, and Jens Uwe Parkitny as a strategic advisor, in an honorary capacity, effective 1 November.

This ‘dream team’ was formed by Jens Thraenhart, Founder of Destination Mekong and former Executive Director of the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO), before starting a new career as CEO of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.

About Destination Mekong (www.destinationmekong.com)

Destination Mekong (DM) was created in 2017 by private stakeholders of the travel and tourism industry of the Mekong region (GMS) to promote the Greater Mekong Subregion, comprising of Cambodia, PR China (Provinces of Guangxi and Yunnan), Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Viet Nam, as a single destination.

The overarching purpose of Destination Mekong is to champion the Mekong region as a sustainable and inclusive tourism destination. Over the past years, it has spearheaded innovative and inclusive collaboration within the public and private sectors across the six Mekong countries to inspire and engage travelers and stakeholders through authentic experiences and stories

The core mission of Destination Mekong is to create engaging programs and solutions that build capacity, are inclusive, and promote sustainable economic development and understanding of the diversity and uniqueness of the region, contributing to social equality and poverty reduction.

Endorsed by the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office in Thailand and aligned with the mandate of the regional collaborative tourism framework of the six-member governments of the Greater Mekong Sub-region, Destination Mekong has executed targeted projects and initiatives, including Mekong Moments, Mekong Memories, Mekong Deals, Mekong Mini Movie Festival, Mekong Innovative Start-ups in Tourism (MIST), Experience Mekong Collection, Mekong Heroes, and Mekong Trends, with feedback from the Mekong Tourism Advisory Group (MeTAG) and via public-private partnership investment structure, led by UNWTO Affiliate Member Chameleon Strategies.

About the One Planet network Sustainable Tourism Programme

https://www.oneplanetnetwork.org/programmes/sustainable-tourism

The One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme has the overall objective to enhance the sustainable development impacts of the tourism sector by 2030 by developing, promoting, and scaling up sustainable consumption and production practices that boost the efficient use of natural resources while producing less waste and addressing the challenges of climate change, loss of biodiversity and pollution. The Sustainable Tourism Programme is part of the One Planet network, a multi-stakeholder partnership to implement SDG 12 on Sustainable Consumption and Production.