Monday 28 February 2022

Tokyo Marathon Foundation to hold Virtual Tokyo Marathon 2022

The virtual event will be open to participants from all over the world via a running app. Since the Tokyo Marathon 2021 was postponed to March 2022 due to the spread of COVID-19, the 2022 virtual event will be held over a digital platform. 

The entry period for the event closed on 30 January. Although COVID-19 continues to cause hardships, we hope that together with runners from around the world, the Virtual Tokyo Marathon 2022 will help lift people’s spirits up.

※ To those registered in the Marathon (42.195 km)
※ If you complete this virtual marathon as one continuous activity, your time can earn you a position in the AbbottWMM Wanda VIRTUAL Age Group World Rankings.
*Visit the AbbottWMM website to learn more about the AbbottWMM Wanda Virtual Age Group World Ranking

More Details
Email: tmf_vr@tokyo42195.org

Dolly Parton's Smash Hit "9 to 5" opens in Sydney

I was privileged to attend the opening might of the new "9 to 5" musical in Sydney last week. Myself and all the others in the full Capitol theatre thoroughly enjoyed this smash hit musical featuring the songs of Dolly Parton. It was great to see live musical theatre back again after an absence of several years. 

The musical is based on the 1980 movie "9 to 5" that starred Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton. It made its first appearance on stage as a live production in 2009 with additional songs written by Dolly Parton.

The opening night started off with invited celebrities walking the red carpet in all their glam and glitter. Too many to mention, but I recognised Keeri-Anne Kennerley and Richard Wilkins.

Dolly Parton made an appearance, via video screen on the giant 9 to 5 timepiece, to introduce the show and sing her hit song 9 to 5. The show then swung into action as the office workers entered the stage and headed off to work.

The best part of the musical was the comedy element that made the audience chuckle with laughter as the characters sung their way through the male dominated office era of the 1980's. It is good to see that a lot of the sexist office culture of the 1980's has changed for the better, but unfortunately some elements still hang around even today.

The singing of the 4 leads and the ensemble is great. Marina Prior, Casey Donovan, Erin Clare, and Caroline O'Conner sing beautifully as they try to get even with and overthrow their work place autocratic, sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot boss, played by Eddie Perfect. The stand out singer was Casey Donovan with her solo.

Rather than painted backdrops, the sets were high tech consisting of lots of fluorescent lighting strips and screens that gave the appearance of office tower block exteriors or office interiors. 

The 8 piece orchestra provided all the beaut music for the singers as they sung the songs. They did not over dominate the singers, so all the words of the songs were clearly heard. 

"9 to 5" will be playing at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney before moving on to other cities around Australia. I suggest you get in early to book your tickets so you do not miss out on this great night at the theatre. Dolly Parton will love to see you and your friends there!

Sunday 27 February 2022

Stimulate Quy Nhon tourism with new flight route

Launching ceremony of Ho Chi Minh City - Quy Nhon
City flight route by Vietravel Airlines
(Photo: Vietravel Airlines)
Tourists coming to Binh Dinh Province now have another option to travel by flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Quy Nhon City with Vietravel Airlines.

On 21st January, Vietravel airlines expanded its flight network by launching a new flight route from Ho Chi Minh City to Quy Nhon City, along with the restoration of the flight route to Da Nang (DAD).

Speaking at the launching ceremony, Mr. Lam Hai Gian, Vice Chairman of Binh Dinh Provincial People’s Committee declared thanks to the focusing of large enterprises on Binh Dinh Province, many opportunities are being granted for the locality tourism development. In which, Vietravel is the first travel company with an airline implementing the combination of travel and transportation, bringing more tourists to Binh Dinh

Mr. Vu Duc Bien, CEO of Vietravel Airlines indicated: As the first travel airline in Vietnam, opening flight routes connecting tourist destinations is one of the airline’s top priorities. With many activities to improve operational capacity as well as training quality of customer service, Vietravel Airlines is ready both mentally and physically to a new normal phase; a younger and more dynamic attitude will be a must to conquer the Vietnamese and regional aviation market’.

In the upcoming time, Vietravel Airlines will maintain flight routes with a frequency of 1 flight/day, while ensuring the punctuality rate is always above 98%. Depending on the actual demand of the market, the airline will increase the frequency of some routes to 2 flights/day. Simultaneously, the airline applies pandemic prevention measures in accordance with the Government’s recommendations to ensure flight safety for passengers.

In addition to offering more choices in flight times and expanding flight routes to tourists destinations across the country, Vietravel Airlines is working with international aviation authorities to develop its flight network to Northeast Asian and Southeast Asian markets from the second quarter of this year./.

Tourism Information Technology Center
Tags: Quy Nhon, Binh Dinh Province, Vietravel Airlines, new flight route,

The Holiday and Travel Magazine
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Vietnam National Administration of Tourism
https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn/english/

Saturday 26 February 2022

Trang An eco-tourism site officially reopens

Visitors to the Trang An eco-tourism site on February 2
 (Photo: VNA)
The Trang An eco-tourism site, part of the Trang An Landscape Complex in northern Ninh Binh province, attracted a large number of visitors when officially reopening on February 2 after a long hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The site management board said before reopening, the safety of all boats as well as health of all staff members and sailors had been examined. Police and security guards have also been arranged across the site to ensure security, order, and traffic safety.

It added that visitors have regularly been reminded of complying with anti-pandemic rules, especially the 5K principle (khau trang - wearing face masks, khu khuan - disinfection, khoang cach - keeping distance, khai bao - making health declaration, and khong tu tap - no gatherings), via megaphones, leaflets, and posters.

The eco-tourism site is open from 7am to 5pm every day.

The Trang An Landscape Complex was recognised as a world cultural and natural heritage site by UNESCO in June 2014.
Source: VNA

The Holiday and Travel Magazine
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Vietnam National Administration of Tourism
https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn/english/

Arabian Travel Market changes 2022 dates to accommodate new UAE working week

ATM 2022 will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre from Monday 9 to Thursday 12 May
New timings coincide with Arabian Travel Week
Monday opening will strengthen alignment with international markets

Reed Exhibitions (RX) the organiser of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) has announced that this year’s four-day event will now open on Monday 9 May 2022 and close on Thursday 12 May 2022, to fall in line with the UAE’s new Monday-to-Friday working week.

Taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the revised dates are also expected to complement international markets, the majority of which also follow the Monday-to-Friday working week.

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME – Arabian Travel Market, said: “We are looking forward to welcoming the global travel and tourism community to the UAE on Monday 9 May 2022. Made possible by the UAE’s forward-thinking decision to transition to a 4.5-day, Monday-to-Friday workweek, we are confident ATM 2022’s updated timings will benefit both exhibitors and attendees by offering improved alignment with international markets.”

Endorsing ATM’s position, UAE business sentiment is certainly very positive. According to a poll conducted by management consultancy Mercer, overall, 84% of private sector firms welcomed the initiative and 37% would adopt a long-term flexible approach, particularly those with close trading links with other Gulf countries.

Now in its 29th year and working in collaboration with the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) – previously known as the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), ATM 2022 will feature a broad selection of show highlights.

Travel Forward, the leading global event for travel technology, will shine a spotlight on next-generation innovations for tourism and hospitality. ATM buyer forums and speed networking events will take place during the four days of the show.

After joining remotely for ATM 2021, this year will see both the ARIVALDubai@ATM forum and the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) participate live in Dubai for the first time ever.

The dedicated ARIVALDubai@ATM forum will cover current and future trends for tour operators and attractions, focusing on growing business through marketing, technology, distribution, thought leadership and executive-level connections. GBTA, the world’s premier business travel and meetings trade organisation, will deliver the latest business travel content, research and education to help drive the sector’s ongoing recovery and support growth in business travel.

ATM will play an integral role in the Arabian Travel Week (9-19 May), a festival of events dedicated to enabling travel professionals from all over the world to collaborate and shape the recovery of the Middle East travel industry through exhibitions, conferences, breakfast briefings, awards, product launches and networking events.

The UAE remains one of the most Covid-secure countries on the planet, with consistently low case rates and robust measures to ensure tourists’ safety at every stage of their visit, from arrival to departure. Like its neighbouring emirates, Dubai is committed to maintaining the highest hygiene and safety standards. The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has endorsed its pandemic management, awarding the city a ‘Safe Travels’ stamp.

If you’d like to learn more about ATM, visit wtm.com/atm/en-gb.html.

Experience the ‘Best of Maldives’ Exclusively at Anantara Kihavah Villas: The Ultimate Luxury Escape 2022

Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas
Have you ever dreamed about getting away from it all on an island escape in the Maldives and delving into all the thrilling experiences the destination has to offer? Make your dreams come true with the “Best of Maldives” experience package, only from Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas. 

Immerse yourself in a world of enchantment as you snorkel with manta rays, indulge your sense of wonderment as you dine at SEA underwater restaurant, and then retreat into the blissful seclusion of a Beach Pool Villa or an Over Water Pool Villa. If this is your vision of the perfect dream escape, then Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas is ready to welcome you into a land of wonders.

RETREAT INTO THE SECLUSION OF YOUR LUXURY POOL VILLA
Because every dream escape requires the perfect hideaway, the ‘Best of Maldives’ experience package offers a choice of accommodation options. Choose from either the exclusive seclusion of a Beach Pool Villa nestled amidst lush vegetation along a pristine stretch of the private beach, or the fantastical experience of an Over Water Pool Villa perched over the crystal-clear lagoon with panoramic ocean views. 

Both options boast a large infinity-edge pool, dining area, spacious wooden sundeck and lounging areas complete with swinging daybed and sun loungers. Each villa also features his and hers walk-in wardrobes, rain showers, outdoor showers and over-sized bathtubs big enough for two. A sunken glass-bottom bathtub in the overwater pool villas offers a mesmerising view of the sparkling ocean beneath. To further enhance the experience of luxury and pampered seclusion, all villas are serviced by a personal Villa Host 24 hours a day.

Families looking for a paradise island adventure will find ample opportunity to share magical bonding moments in the spacious abode provided by Anantara Kihavah’s family-style villas. The Two Bedroom Family Beach Pool Villa boasts 412 sqm of space comprising of a king and twin bedroom, both of which include a day bed, en suite bathroom, and fully equipped refreshment centre and wine fridge. Stepping outside, the whole family can cool off together in the 12-metre swimming pool that runs alongside the extensive outdoor sun terrace, or exchange tales of their adventures over meals on the shaded dining sala or outdoor barbecue pit with a sunken dining lounge. 

Ideally suited for families with young children, the One Bedroom Family Beach Pool Villa features separate sleeping quarters suitable for kids under 12 years old. The freshly redesigned villas encapsulate a light and airy atmosphere making a cosy space for families to unwind. Both beach hideaways have a private pathway providing direct access to the powder white sand and aqua-hued waters of the Indian Ocean.

INDULGE YOUR SENSES AT SEA UNDERWATER RESTAURANT
Fine Dining at SEA Underwater
Restaurant & Wine Cellar
A magical dining experience immersed in the waters overlooking the best coral house reef in the Maldives is hard to beat. As part of the Best of Maldives experience, Anantara Kihavah takes you six metres beneath the waves into SEA, the resort’s award-winning underwater restaurant and wine cellar, home to over 450 labels and vintages more than 180 years old. Ideally located at the edges of Anantara Kihavah’s famed house reef, the restaurant serves up an exceptional feast for the senses as you savour a gourmet four-course lunch, whilst marvelling at the panoramic views of marine life at play amongst the vibrant corals of the reef.

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE MAGESTIC WORLD OF MANTA RAYS

Another truly spectacular ‘Best of Maldives’ experience is snorkelling with majestic manta rays. The annual migration of manta rays is truly amazing to witness as they gather en masse to feed at Hanifaru Bay during the season. Snorkel in the water for a breathtaking encounter with these gentle giants as they glide effortlessly below you with their graceful movements and amusing somersaults.

Situated within the Baa Atoll, a renowned UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Anantara Kihavah is the perfect place for underwater explorations as the best house reef in the Maldives encircles the island’s entire perimeter. Straight from the beach or from the steps of the over water villas, the colourful world of corals and spectacular undersea fauna is waiting to be explored beneath the crystal-clear waters.

Swimming with Majestic Manta Rays
Whether you choose the exclusive seclusion of a Beach Pool Villa or the aquatic indulgence of an Over Water Pool Villa, you are guaranteed to enjoy unparalleled opportunities to share magical memories with loved ones at this island sanctuary, recently hailed as the ‘Best Hotel in the Maldives, 2021’ by DestinAsian Magazine. Begin your journey to the land of dream escapes with Anantara Kihavah’s “Best of Maldives” experience package.

BEST OF MALDIVES EXPERIENCE PACKAGE
Packaged for two adults sharing a villa with rates starting from USD 1,500++ per night:
  • For stays of between four to seven nights:
  • Choice of luxury Beach Pool Villa or Over Water Pool Villa
  • Half board basis consisting of breakfast, and dinner at three restaurants
  • One experience of a four-course lunch at SEA
  • Additional inclusions for stays of eight nights or more:
  • One experience of manta ray snorkelling or dolphin cruise*

Valid for stays until 15 October 2022. For more information or to book, call +960 664 4111, visit us at Anantara.com/en/kihavah-maldives or email reservations.maldives@anantara.com.

High-Speed, High-Tech Sailing Returns to SF in March

On Mar. 26 and 27, high-speed, adrenaline-fueled racing will return to San Francisco Bay at the Mubadala United States Sail Grand Prix | San Francisco. 

This event, the season 2 Grand Final of the globe-trotting SailGP championship, will see teams from eight different countries racing above the waves on foiling F50 catamarns capable of highway speeds.

Plan your trip now to witness the action!

SailGP, the global championship that is redefining the sport of sailing, will return to San Francisco on Saturday, March 26 and Sunday, March 27, 2022 for the Mubadala United States Sail Grand Prix | San Francisco. This is the only U.S. event in Season 2, which comprises eight events and a field of the sport's top athletes representing eight different nations.

Powered by Nature™, SailGP is adrenaline-fueled racing that sees teams go head-to-head in iconic destinations across the globe for a winner-takes-all $1 million prize. Home fans will be able to cheer on Jimmy Spithill's U.S. team as they look for victory on home soil.

Discounted early-bird tickets are now on sale! Explore the many experiences to watch the high-adrenaline competition on San Francisco Bay as the world’s best athletes race at speeds of more than 60 mph, fighting to qualify for the $1 million final.

Stay tuned to see if the defending champions, Australia's SailGP Team, will clinch their second consecutive title or if a new champion will be crowned.

BUY TICKETS NOW

Teams representing eight nations—the United States, Australia, France, Great Britain, Japan, Spain, New Zealand and Denmark—will race on identical 50-foot foiling catamarans, known as the F50. Driven by the sport's best athletes, the F50 is capable of speeds approaching 100 km/h, with a top speed of 98.3 km/h recorded so far this season.

Racing will take place in the heart of San Francisco Bay, with the Golden Gate Bridge serving as a stunning and dramatic backdrop. The official viewing area is once again located on the Marina Yacht Club Peninsula. Attracting 22,000 spectators in the first year, this ticketed area along the water’s edge will be the center of the festivities.

San Francisco will be the eighth and final stop on the Season 2 circuit. Leading up to San Francisco, events will take place in Bermude, Taranto (Italy), Plymouth (Great Britian), Aarhus (Denmark), Saint-Tropez (France), Cádiz (Spain), and Sydney (Australia).

The current Season 2 leaderboard features Japan, the United State, and Australia occupying the top three spots following the most recent event in Saint-Tropez.

During the league’s inaugural season in 2019, fans embraced the SailGP concept, as the championship’s five events garnered a television audience of 256 million. In addition, more than 133,000 spectators watched the live events, 138,000 downloaded the award-winning mobile app and more than 100,000 eF50s raced in the debut of the league’s first-generation gaming platform.

SailGP’s mission is to accelerate the transition to clean energy and be the most sustainable and purpose-driven sports and entertainment property.

Visit SailGP’s YouTube page for the latest highlights and stunning action.

San Francisco Information
Guests visiting San Francisco for SailGP will discover that The City is home to a little bit of everything: world-class culinary and arts scenes, a strikingly beautiful natural setting, and a famously diverse population. Iconic experiences include riding the Cable Cars, crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, strolling Fisherman’s Wharf & PIER 39, and visiting Alcatraz Island. Don’t miss shopping in Union Square, finding Dim Sum in Chinatown, grabbing an Italian meal in North Beach, exploring the city’s Latino heritage in the Mission, and celebrating Pride in the Castro District. The many arts & culture attractions throughout the city offer experimental and traditional experiences showcasing the city’s creativity. And of course, the Marina District neighborhood, the home of SailGP, offers a multitude of dining and nightlife options to explore before and after the racing on the waterfront.

Check out tips to plan your trip, get around while you're here, and where to go next.

The Top 5 Beaches in the World

Grace Bay Beach
Yeah, we wish we were there, too. White sands, rugged coastlines, the works—these are the beaches that travellers dream of all year long.

Hold your screen up to your ear, and you just might hear the ocean. (Okay, not quite, but to get you in the surf-and-sand kinda mood, here are the 5 beaches travellers love most.)

1. Grace Bay Beach
Grace Bay, Providenciales

“An absolutely idyllic setting. Golden sand edging crystal clear blue water with gently lapping waves - it's what postcards were made for.”
Shop for a place to stay
19 Hotels
1 B&B and Inns
97 Holiday Rentals

2. Varadero Beach
Varadero, Cuba

“Postcard perfect. The water was the bluest I’ve ever seen and the sand was powdery white.”
Shop for a place to stay
94 Hotels
105 B&B and Inns

Turquoise Bay
3. Turquoise Bay

Exmouth, Australia

“Words cannot capture how spectacular this beach is. Long stretches of white sand and crystal blue water. World class snorkelling for beginners as well as experienced.”
Shop for a place to stay
5 Hotels
1 B&B and Inns
72 Holiday Rentals

4. Quarta Praia
Morro de Sao Paulo, Brazil

“Warm water with amazing views. When the sea calms down it forms amazing natural pools. When in Morro de São Paolo this beach is a must see.”
Shop for a place to stay

30 Hotels
165 B&B and Inns
27 Holiday Rentals

Eagle Beach
5. Eagle Beach

Palm - Eagle Beach, Aruba

“Tranquil and pristine, the water is beautifully clear with no rocks or seaweed. The beach stretches as far as you can see.”
Shop for a place to stay

25 Hotels
5 B&B and Inns
209 Holiday Rentals

*Source: Tripadvisor

Enjoy Gastronomy Experiences in Sri Lanka

Being a multi-cultural country and a former colony of 3 nations, Sri Lanka's food culture has evolved into a fusion of many curry recipes and tasty foods. 

Rice and curry are the stable food, coconuts and various spices always a key signature throughout Sri Lankan cuisine. 

Koththu, pol roti, String hoppers, hoppers, coconut sambal, local fruit juice and Ceylon tea are some of the must-try food and drinks during your luxury holiday in Sri Lanka.

We are pleased to share our uniquely designed gastronomy experiences for you while covering must see places in the pristine island in the Indian Ocean. 

We trust this will be an ideal experience for the post covid travelers to experience the best with the best in the country.

Amal Jay.
Director & CEO

Luxury Holidays Asia (PVT) LTD.
#162, Galle Road, Mount Lavinia,
Colombo, Sri Lanka.


Lam Dong sets to welcome 5 million visitors in 2022

The Valley of Love in Da Lat City, the Central
Highlands province of Lam Dong.
The Central Highlands province of Lam Dong eyes to welcome 5 million visitors, including 150,000 foreigners, this year, heard at the conference held by the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism on January 23.

To this end, the province plans to restore some traditional festivals of local ethnic minority groups and launch various new tourism products, such as adventure tours in Tuyen Lam Lake in the resort city of Da Lat and Bidoup Nui Ba National Park, and healthcare, camping and glamping tours in Da Lat.

It will also introduce a week-long travel festival this year and develop Da Lat as a smart tourism city.

Lam Dong has received a large number of vacationers at the end of last year, signaling a good start for the industry recovery in 2022, said Deputy Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc.

The province will not only improve its service quality and create new products but also provide visitors with the best conditions when it comes to COVID-19 rules, given the relatively high vaccine coverage, she said.

The Holiday and Travel Magazine
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Vietnam National Administration of Tourism
https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn/english/

Otello wows with vocal fireworks on opening night

Otello
Now playing until 19 March, Sydney Opera House

"Those expecting vocal fireworks did not leave disappointed. ★★★★"
Limelight

"An opera worth seeing to witness these marvellous vocalists and stunning score."
Theatre Travels

"Yonghoon Lee amazes in his ability to establish Otello’s respect and authority in compelling notes filled with power and command."
Stage Whispers

Karah Son’s Desdemona had something close to a perfection of beauty in the sound with rich colour, soft finish and quiet poised presence. ★★★★½"
The Sydney Morning Herald

"Opera Australia has done Verdi, and opera, proud... this production does full justice to one of the supreme achievements of the art form. ★★★★½ "
Australian Book Review

BOOK NOW

The Holiday and Travel Magazine
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

CIRCUS OF ILLUSION A truly magical experience

  • Two shows only – Thursday 21 April – State Theatre, Sydney

“Illusionist Michael’s tricks are a ‘totally awesome’ treat” Canberra City News

Escape into a world where sawdust and sequins join cutting edge illusions and spectacular magic to create Circus of Illusion, playing two shows only on Thursday 21 April at the State Theatre, Sydney.

The ringmaster will take you on a journey where he blends world-class circus artists, spellbinding magic that will leave you mesmerised by a show of mystery and mayhem. Stay on the edge of your seat and keep your eyes peeled amazing showgirls levitate, disappear and fly high in the air as the talented troupe of performers from across the globe treat your senses to a show of pure spectacle.

Acclaimed illusionist and Australia’s Got Talent finalist Michael Boyd is the producer, director and head illusionist. He began Circus of Illusion four years ago and says "It originated in a circus tent in Adelaide”. But he moved it into a theatrical space: while the Big Top tradition was lost, much was gained. "You can do a lot more effects and lighting and theatrics with the show." Boyd performs death-defying escapes, levitations, disappearances, mime and ingenious illusions that leave audiences in awe.
 
Also starring is an incredible duo from Perth Cameo Rascale an internationally acclaimed acrobatic, comedy, balancing, and juggling act. In 2009 the family acrobatic act made it to the Grand Final of Australia's Got Talent. The talented duo, James Capener and Rebecca Borromei, bring a new dynamic of exciting skills to the stage.
 
CIRCUS OF ILLUSION
Venue: State Theatre, 49 Market Street, Sydney
Date: Thursday 21 April
Times: 2pm and 6:30pm
Prices: From $49.00
Tickets: Ticketmaster

Friday 25 February 2022

Khanh Hoa welcomes first visitors in Year of the Tiger

The 138 visitors were presented with flowers,
New Year gifts and lucky money in accordance
 with the traditional custom of first footing.
The south central coastal province of Khanh Hoa on February 1, the first day of the Year of the Tiger, welcomed the first visitors in the lunar new year who arrived in the locality aboard a Vietnam Airlines flight departing from Hanoi.

Director of the provincial Department of Tourism Nguyen Thi Le Thanh said that with events to celebrate first tourists in the New Year and diverse activities planned for the whole year, the province’s tourism sector hopes for a good year in 2022.

She said that this year, Khanh Hoa aims to receive over 1.2 million visitors, doubling that in 2021, including 40,000 foreigners, and revenue of 4 trillion VND (176.6 million USD), up 80 percent over the previous year.

Defining domestic market as the main market of the Khanh Hoa tourism in 2022, the province will conduct numerous activities to lure visitors, including tourism roadshows in domestic localities such as Hanoi, Hai Phong, Ho Chi Minh City, and Can Tho, as well as foreign countries including Russia, the Republic of Korea and China.

Khanh Hoa, home to famous beach towns Nha Trang and Cam Ranh, on November 25, 2021 welcomed the first international tourists with vaccine passports after a long hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

It is among localities selected to roll out the pilot “vaccine passport” programme, which is divided into three phases, starting from last November.

In the first phase that starts this month, designated places and tourism facilities in the selected localities could receive foreign tourists within package tourism programmes arriving via either charter flights or international commercial flights.

In the second phase that takes effect from January 2022, the scale of the pilot plan will be expanded by connecting destinations through regular charter and international commercial flights.

Vietnam’s tourism market will fully open to international tourists in the last phase, the starting time of which will be based on the contemporary pandemic situation on the evaluation of the two previous phases.
Source: VNA
Tags: #Khanh Hoa, #Tet Holiday, #Lunar New Year,

The Holiday and Travel Magazine
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Vietnam National Administration of Tourism
https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn/english/

Russia climbs rankings to become Dubai’s second-largest source market in 2021, with UAE set to remain the country’s preferred GCC destination

  • Russian market on course to surpass US$1 billion for UAE within next four years
  • Average length of stay for Russian visitors grew by 74.5% from 2019 to 2020
  • With continued growth predicted, Russia will represent a key focus at ATM 2022 with a dedicated Forum

Russia has grown to become the second-largest source market for Dubai’s travel and tourism sector in 2021, climbing from eighth place in last year’s rankings. This is according to data released ahead of the next edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 9-12 May 2022.

Commissioned by Reed Exhibitions (RX), the organisers of ATM 2022, the Colliers report concluded that the UAE is also likely to retain its status as the preferred GCC destination for Russian visitors over the longer term, accounting for more than 90% of inbound arrivals in 2026.

In addition to the volume of inbound visitors to the UAE, the average spend of Russian travellers is expected to grow significantly between 2021 and 2026, increasing by $85 to reach approximately $1,280 per person during this period. Consequently, the Russian market is on course to surpass $1 billion for the Emirates within the next four years.

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME – Arabian Travel Market, said: “The latest figures from Colliers demonstrate that visitors from Russia are playing – and will continue to play – an important role for our region’s travel sector, especially when it comes to the UAE.

“The fact that Dubai was among the first destinations to open its borders to Russian travellers without the need to quarantine has no doubt been a significant factor in the sustained levels of visitation, with 296,000 inbound arrivals to the emirate in 2020.

“Encouragingly, 2021 numbers look set to surpass that figure, with Dubai having welcomed 256,000 visitors from Russia as of the third quarter of the year.”

The Russian market’s average length of stay (ALoS) saw a year-on-year uptick of 74.5% in Q4 2020, growing to 8.2 nights from the 4.7 nights recorded during the corresponding period of the previous year.

Despite ALoS expected to decline gradually in the future as new regional destinations continue to emerge, Colliers researchers predict that drivers such as Expo 2020 Dubai and spillover demand from FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 will boost inbound arrivals from Russia by 170% in the short term.

“In light of this forecast, the Russian travel and tourism market will be of great interest to ATM 2022 attendees. As such, we will have a dedicated seminar on the Russian market, which will tackle key content on this lucrative market, as well as focusing on attracting leading buyers through our hosted buyer programme,” added Curtis.

The session is organised by Destination of the World News and focuses on the luxury end of the market.

Now in its 29th year and working in collaboration with the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) – formerly the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) – ATM show highlights in 2022 will include, among others, destination summits focused on the key source markets of Saudi Arabia, Russia and India.

Travel Forward, the leading global event for travel technology, will shine a spotlight on next-generation innovations for tourism and hospitality. ATM buyer forums and speed networking events will take place during the four days of the show.

After joining us remotely for ATM 2021, this year will see both the ARIVALDubai@ATM forum and the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) participate live in Dubai for the first time ever. The dedicated ARIVALDubai@ATM forum will cover current and future trends for tour operators and attractions, focusing on growing business through marketing, technology, distribution, thought leadership and executive-level connections. GBTA, the world’s premier business travel and meetings trade organisation, will deliver the latest business travel content, research and education to help drive the sector’s ongoing recovery and support growth in business travel.

ATM will play an integral role in Arabian Travel Week, a festival of events dedicated to enabling travel professionals from all over the world to collaborate and shape the recovery of the Middle East travel industry through exhibitions, conferences, breakfast briefings, awards, product launches and networking events.

In line with the UAE government’s forward-thinking transition to a 4.5-day, Monday-to-Friday workweek, this year’s edition of ATM will commence on Monday 9 May.

The UAE remains one of the most Covid-secure countries on the planet, with consistently low case rates and robust measures to ensure tourists’ safety at every stage of their visit, from arrival to departure. Like its neighbouring emirates, Dubai is committed to maintaining the highest hygiene and safety standards. The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has endorsed its pandemic management, awarding the city a ‘Safe Travels’ stamp.

If you’d like to learn more about ATM, visit wtm.com/atm/en-gb.html.

You’re invited to East Meets West Orchestral Concert

Experience Australia's finest musicians performing traditional and contemporary music from the East and the West including the acclaimed Chinese masterpieces, Spring Festival Suite and Tune of Meihu, and the world-famous Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No.1.

The 50-piece orchestra from Willoughby Symphony will be led by emerging Australian-Chinese conductor Shilong Ye. The guest soloists include award-winning pianist Tony Tongyi Lee, leading Erhu player Tuqiang Zhang, Opera Australia's popular soprano Sharon Zhai.

" looming program of classic Chinese repertoire, capped off with Tchaikovsky’s First Piano Concerto.” - Limelight Magazine

Thank you for your patience with our concert after several repeated COVID-19 postponements. We encourage you to come and experience our real, live orchestra in the flesh after a long and painful drought of COVID silence.

If you would like to use Discover NSW, Parents NSW Voucher to purchase tickets, please send your request to email: events@ausfeng.com.au or call 0403 188 733.

East Meets West Orchestral Concert
Sydney Town Hall
Sunday 6 March 2022 at 7:30 PM

Karato Fish Market

Karato Fish Market 
Enjoy fresh and affordable sushi, seafood bowls, and all kinds of pufferfish dishes offered by merchants at Karato Fish Market during the “Ikiiki Bakangai” which happens on weekends! 

The market specialises in fresh seafood, including puffer fish, and local products of Shimonoseki.

 Outside the market, you can see the Kanmon Bridge and the Kanmon channel spanning the horizon; the fishing ships coming and going from the wooden deck, giving this market a vibrant feel.

#JNTOSG

Japan National Tourism Organization
Instagram: visitjapansg
Website: japanbyjapan.com
Website: japan.travel/en/sg

IT&CM China The Leading International MICE Event In China

Since 2007, IT&CM China has established itself as China’s leading international Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) business, education and networking event, dedicated to “Promoting China to the World and the World to China”.

Bringing together Chinese and International MICE exhibitors and buyers in one dynamic marketplace, IT&CM China is the platform for international and leading Chinese players in the MICE industry to explore business opportunities on all fronts – inbound, outbound and domestic.

Delegates to the 3-day event receive the best return on their investment in business, education and networking through structured business appointments, exhibition showcase, seminar sessions, official networking functions and tours.

Co-located with CTW China as China’s Only Doublebill Event in MICE and Corporate Travel, IT&CM China is part of the IT&CM Events series organised by TTG Events, a business group of TTG Asia Media. This event is co-organised by CTS MICE Service Co., Ltd., and MP International.

TTG Events
10 Science Park Rd, #03-11 The Alpha, Science Park II, Singapore 117684
itcmchina@ttgasia.com

Hot air balloons festival celebrates 1st founding anniversary of Thu Duc City

The hot air balloon festival takes place along the
banks of the Saigon River. (Photo: NDO)
A festival of hot air balloons, yachts and water sports activities celebrating the first anniversary of the founding of Thu Duc City opened at the Saigon River Tunnel in Thu Duc City on January 22-23.

The festival includes performances of enormous colorful hot air balloons from 6 am- 9 am and 3.30 pm – 5.30 pm, paragliding, yacht parade and sport activities on the Sai Gon River and lunar New Year folk games.

Visitors have a chance to shoot pictures to participate in a photo contest featuring beautiful photographic works of the festivals, and access to the page https://www.facebook.com/hellohochiminhcity for further information.

The event co-organized by the HCMC Department of Tourism and the People’s Committee of Thu Duc City aims to diversify tourist products and reaffirm the city's image as a safe, friendly and attractive destination to welcome back international visitors to the city.

Thu Duc City that is established on the basis of merging three eastern districts of Thu Duc, 2 and 9 has tourism potentials and a diversified system of cultural heritages, including archaeological sites, tens of pagodas and temples, and ancient architectures such as Ao Dai Museum, Buu Long Pagoda, Hoi An Pagoda, National Cultural and Historical Park and Hung Kings Memorial Temple, craft villages, leisure and entertainment venues.

On the same day, the My Quynh Safari located in HCMC’s neighboring province of Long An, 45km away from the city opened. The zoo with more than 100 animals is expected to draw 5-6 million visitors per year.
Source: SGGP
Tags: #HCMC Department of Tourism, #safe, #friendly and attractive destination, #welcome back international visitors,

The Holiday and Travel Magazine
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Vietnam National Administration of Tourism
https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn/english/

Australian Turf Club still in the swing of summer events

 The Australian Turf Club (ATC) 

ROYAL RANDWICK - WINX STAND
continue to operate business as usual during the Omicron outbreak, thanks to a proven COVID-Safe plan and expansive indoor and outdoor multi-purpose spaces, bringing in 58,000 people to the Summer Festival of Racing, alongside various other meetings and events.

The state-of-the-art WINX Stand at Royal Randwick has hosted numerous events since opening the doors in December. The venue is designed for conferences, gala dinners, exhibitions, and other boutique to large-scale celebrations and has adapted to the capacity restrictions and health order changes, by utilising the two-storeys and open-air terrace to accommodate up to 4,000 pax cocktail style.

ATC has attributed the success of the summer season to the quality of the ATC team which boasts a dedicated team of 280 permanent and 1,300 casuals across all venues.   

Louise White, Senior Business Development Manager, ATC, said promoting a new venue during the pandemic has not been without its challenges.

“For our team, it’s about looking beyond the right now, and ensuring the opportunities are still there. The question on everyone’s lips right now is ‘How can we make it COVID-safe?’ and having a great solution to this, has been a key element in our business development. We are well-versed in this area and work closely with a number of suppliers on rapid antigen testing stations and extra safety measures in all our venues.

“Get Local this week was such a fantastic chance to connect face-to-face once again with the business events industry and share details about our new WINX Stand, but more importantly, what our team can do to provide solutions to keep our clients and their events safe.”  

Kate Ross, Event Manager, ATC, faced 44 events over the summer with last minute changes and possible restrictions.

“This is what being an event manager is all about, we are problem solvers and need to find the safest way to hold events. We’re lucky that WINX Stand has so many indoor and outdoor spaces to accommodate guests and really make the clients feel safe and comfortable.”

Warren Jackson, Executive Sous Chef, ATC, tackled challenges which even the largest supermarkets are struggling with - supply shortages.

“As a venue we serve hundreds to thousands of people throughout the week, from hosting events and functions to our summer racedays with various food offerings in our retail cafes, bistros and five-star restaurants. The one thing our team can’t face is letting down our regular customers and guests by not being able to feed them! We have faced many challenges recently in the food industry – staff shortages, bad weather and in particular COVID-related issues. Because of this, we have focused on working more closely with our excellent local suppliers to source fresh ingredients that are in high demand, adapt and change menus when required at the last minute, whilst always maintaining great quality produce and high standards across all of our food areas”. 

ATC are passionate about continuing to operate as a COVID-safe business and their continued efforts to run these events as safe and efficiently as possible has been met with great success.


The Holiday and Travel Magazine
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

PARRTJIMA PROGRAM TO ILLUMINATE THE RED CENTRE

Parrtjima – A Festival in Light
Parrtjima – A Festival in Light returns to illuminate Alice Springs (Mparntwe) from 8-17 April 2022 and the program, released today, promises 10 nights of fantastic free entertainment under star-studded skies.

A raft of big names will wow visitors, with ARIA Award-winning Dan Sultan and Triple J’s 2021 Unearthed Artist of the Year King Stingray leading the music program. They will be joined by a range of performers including Aussie rapper BARKAA, West Arnhem Land’s Black Rock Band and the Top End’s Jimblah.

The King Stingray song ‘Get Me Out’ is the soundtrack for the Parrtjima promotional video, and band member Yirrnga Yunupingu said they are looking forward to playing at the festival.

“This will be the first time for us playing in the Red Centre. Our dreams have come true! We can’t wait to experience the good vibes of Parrtjima and rock the stage with all the other amazing artists,” he said.

Some of the musicians will also appear as part of the talks program, intimate conversations between fascinating Australians and Parrtjima Curator Rhoda Roberts AO. Other names on the program include NRL star Josh Addo-Carr, Steven Oliver of Black Comedy fame, and Parrtjima artists Carmen Glynn-Braun and Raelene Ngala Williams.

This year’s film program offers a retrospective of acclaimed filmmaker Warwick Thornton’s work. The workshops program will be released at a later date.

Parrtjima is delivered by the Northern Territory Government through Northern Territory Major Events Company (NTMEC) and produced by Creative Directors AGB Events. NTMEC CEO Tim Watsford said this year’s theme is Sky Country.

“The Red Centre’s phenomenal star-filled night skies are the perfect backdrop for Sky Country, which focuses on our place in the universe and the relationship Aboriginal Australians have with the skies above,” he said.

Parrtjima – A Festival in Light
The only authentic Aboriginal light festival of its kind, Parrtjima shines a light on the world’s oldest living culture by using the newest technologies, including large-scale light installations and a light show projected onto the 300-million-year-old natural canvas of the MacDonnell Ranges.

For program details, to register for Parrtjima and to book a free spot at any of the film screenings, visit www.parrtjima.com.au

LOVE Colorado in Spring

Come Snow or Shine - and often both - Colorado is perfect for spring skiing and adventure in the sun for those planning a last minute getaway.

March and April are some of the snowiest months in Colorado’s high country and some of the most beautiful and mild months for warm weather experiences at lower elevations. Here's six reasons to LOVE Colorado this Spring:

1. Ski til mid-June at A-basin: The longest ski season in Colorado usually belongs to Arapahoe Basin (often open into mid-June!), and their epic terrain and family-friendly spring concert series make it a sure bet for smiles.

2. Wine Tours in Palisade: Grand Valley Grapes and Grains Adventures is offering two new winery tours available through 14 April 2022. The Governor's Cup Tour is perfect for the local wine lover who wants to expand their knowledge or the visitor who wants to try Colorado’s finest wines. The New Vintage Tour explores new wineries in the Palisade area.

3. Fish in Fort Collins: Early spring in Fort Collins is the perfect time to cast a line in area rivers before they wash out later in the season. Warm March days kick off the seasonal snowmelt cycle, meaning fresh water feeds rivers and streams and the fish are eager to feed on spring hatches. Check Northern Colorado Fishing Outfitters for boat trips, river trips, ice fishing, fly fishing (all weather dependent).

4. Snow Beach in Aspen: Snow Beach ASPENX Gray Malin - Chaise Lounge is a one-of-a-kind “club” on top of Aspen Mountain. This is the first time this area will be brought to life in winter/spring with a pop-up experience available for a limited six-weekend run starting on 18 February, and ending on 27 March. The experience offers a new take on après-ski during Aspen Snowmass’ 75th Anniversary ski season. The outdoor setting features beach-themed décor in an alpine environment with bottle service and multi-course food pairings.

5. Sand Fun at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve: Climb up and tumble, sled or sandboard down North America’s largest sand dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve in the San Luis Valley. A big spring bonus: The mystical Medano Creek returns this time of year, flowing by the base of the dunes and creating a beachy environment with pulsing, small waves.

6. A Two Helmet Day in the Grand Junction Area: Outside of Grand Junction, Powderhorn Mountain Resort sits on the edge of the Grand Mesa, the world's largest flat-top mountain. The area enjoys a reputation for outstanding tree skiing and diverse terrain. Visitors can spend the morning on the slopes, then head into town where they can mountain bike on the area’s famed singletrack pretty much any day of the year. One of the most famous riding areas is the Tabeguache trailhead, better known as the Lunch Loops.

Find out more and get a copy of the Colorado Official State Vacation Guide at www.colorado.com

ABOUT COLORADO TOURISM OFFICE:
Colorado Tourism Office (CTO) is the official travel and tourism office for the state of Colorado. CTO’s mission is to generate traveller spending by promoting Colorado as a four-season, four-corner, world-class travel destination and to develop compelling, sustainable travel experiences.

Colorado is a year-round destination offering unparalleled adventure and recreational activities, an abundant arts scene, Western heritage, distinctive cuisine and 28 renowned ski resort areas. The state's diverse landscape boasts natural hot springs, the headwaters of four major rivers, numerous peaceful lakes and reservoirs, 12 national parks and monuments and 58 mountain peaks that top 14,000 feet, known as ‘Fourteeners’. www.colorado.com

ABOUT LINKD TOURISM:
In 2022 Linkd Tourism celebrates 35 years and attributes its  long-standing  success to a fluid understanding of its clients’ requirements and the travel industry environment both in Australia and New Zealand. Linkd Tourism represents the Colorado Tourism Office, Alamo Rent A Car (North America), Aqua-Aston Hospitality (Hawaii), EagleRider Motorcycles USA, Kyushu Tourism Promotion Organization, Memphis Tourism, Oklahoma Tourism and the Port of Seattle. www.linkdtourism.com

COLORADO TOURISM OFFICE: www.colorado.com

LINKD TOURISM: www.linkdtourism.com