Waterland, the seaside resort of Eilat’s first water park has opened

Overview of the Waterland park. Photo by Tal Agasi

The five-acre attraction has array of slides and pools including a water slide for adults, a children's area and a wave pool along with eating options. 

One of the highlight attractions at Waterland is the three water towers. 

Eilat is known for its colourful Red Sea diving and snorkelling, wind-based water sports and outdoor pursuits in the Eilat Mountains.

 
After four years of construction and 110 million shekels in investment, the Waterland park opened its doors to the public this week. 

The site stretches over more than 20 dunams, or five acres.

* www.goisrael.com 

* Phillipe Herman at phillipe@wearelotus.co.uk

Ein Bokek is a hotel and resort district on the Israeli shore of the Dead Sea

Ein Bokek Beach

The Tamar Regional Council and the Dead Sea Economic Company have announced plans to transform the once-popular solarium spa in Ein Bokek into a glamping site. 

Ein Bokek, located between Jerusalem and Eilat, is a hotel and resort district on the Israeli shore of the Dead Sea, near Neve Zohar. 

The new complex will also serve as a travel centre for the surrounding area. The integrated glamping complex will offer 32 different types of accommodation ranging from individual tents to much larger camps. 

It will be built with sustainable tourism in mind and will incorporate social and environmental initiatives that seek to preserve the region. 

The Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth and the world’s oldest natural spa, has long been a popular spa and wellness destination. 

* www.deadsea.com/explore/dead-sea-beaches/southern-beaches/ein-bokek-beach/ and www.goisrael.com 

* Phillipe Herman at phillipe@wearelotus.co.uk

The Red Sea Jazz Festival, Israel

16 to18 November 2023 

The Red Sea Jazz Festival, the major improvisational musical event in Israel, takes place in Eilat from the 16 to18 November 2023. 

Travellers to Elait, in the south of Israel, can enjoy snorkelling at the Coral Beach, hikes up the surrounding mountains and trips into the Negev Desert to explore the rolling golden dunes. 

The Red Sea itself is a seawater inlet of the Indian Ocean, lying between Africa and Asia. 

It will be the 37th edition of the event that attracts some of the biggest names in jazz, with the 2023 edition seeing performances by American jazz pianist Robert Glasper, London based saxophonist Camila George and pianist Omri Mor. 

As well as global musicians, the festival invites music fans to jam to their favourite music and explore the city. 

 www.redseajazz.co.il/en/ and www.goisrael.com 

 Phillipe Herman at phillipe@wearelotus.co.uk

Reef Relief: sunscreen that revitalises coral reefs

Eilat, Israel’s southernmost city, has developed a landmark sunscreen, Reef Relief, that aims to address the issue of coral bleaching caused by chemicals in sunscreens. 

Many sunscreens on the market contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, which have contributed to the damage inflicted on coral reefs. 

Recognising the importance of coral reefs and the role they play in marine ecosystems, Reef Relief provides a solution that protects the skin from UV rays but also nourishes and revitalizes fading reefs. 

As well as containing no toxic chemicals, Reef Relief is made up by a bespoke blend of FDA-approved trace minerals that revitalises fading reefs. The lotion has gone through extensive sea life testing and is Ecocert compliant. 

Eliat is home to the shallow water reefs that attract thousands of visitors.

The hope is that this new product can inject a lease of life into the marvellous marine habitats that play such an important role in sea life.

The product is currently going through consumer trial but ultimately hopes to identify as the gold-standard for reef protecting sunscreen. 

Eilat is a southern Israeli port and resort town on the Red Sea, near Jordan. Its beaches are noted for their calm waters, like Dolphin Reef, where the aquatic mammals are often spotted. 

Known for snorkeling and diving, Coral Beach Nature Reserve has buoymarked underwater trails among fishfilled reefs. 

Nearby Coral World Underwater Observatory Marine Park has a glass enclosed observation centre submerged offshore. 

 www.eilat.city/en and www israel.travel 

 Phillipe Herman at phillipe@wearelotus.co.uk

The Travel Photographer of the Year awards

The 2022 global Travel Photographer of the Year awards (TPOTY) present ‘a diverse and glorious view of life on our planet’. 

Almost 20,000 images were submitted from amateur and professional photographers from 154 countries.

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/mb7hyehlorzflm9/AADmcecnU13T6eggdf3dw-Zea?dl=0

The winning shots, can be viewed in the online Winners’ Gallery on tpoty.com and on public display from 1 to 31 May in a free outdoor exhibition at the Royal Photographic Society in Bristol, England. 

The exhibition will be part of ‘World Photography in Focus’ which sees Travel Photographer of the Year, Wildlife Photographer of the Year and Food Photographer of the Year all exhibiting. 

The Overall Winner – the Travel Photographer of the Year 2022 – is the Slovenian photographer Matjaz Krivic. His images of 33-year-old Najin - one of the world’s last two remaining Northern White rhinos - and her keeper, Zachary Mutai, in Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Kenya are heart-warming and poignant. 

The winners of the 2022 Travel Photographer of the Year awards : 

 Overall Winner: Travel Photographer of the Year 2022 – Matjaz Krivic, Slovenia 

 Young Travel Photographer of the Year 2022 – Cal Cole, UK (age 18) 

 Young Travel Photographer of the Year: Winner, 15-18 years – Isabella Smith, USA (age 18) 

 Young Travel Photographer of the Year: Winner, 14 years & under – Kaia Tham, Australia (age 14) 

 Portfolio Winner: The Art of Monochrome – Roie Galitz, Israel 

 Portfolio Winner: Cultures – Magdaléna Straková, Czech Republic 

 Portfolio Winner: Deserts to Rainforests – Jaroslav Hora, Czech Republic 

 Portfolio Winner: Green Planet, Blue Planet – Alexej Sachov, Germany 

 One Shot Winner: Creative Travel – Lorenz Berna, Italy 

 One Shot Winner: Mark of Mankind – Angiolo Manetti, Italy 

 One Shot Winner: Water – Alexej Sachov, Germany 

 Smart Shot Winner: iTravelled – Marina Spironetti, Italy 

 People’s Choice Winner: Romain Miot, France, and 

 HD Video Winner, Travel Shorts: Simon Tupper, UK 

www.tpoty.com 

*Source: Karen Coe at karen@tpoty.com

The Lowest Route in the World

Dead Sea 

The Lowest Route in the World is a new tourism initiative launched in the Dead Sea region. 

The Dead Sea is a salt lake in the Jordan Rift Valley, and with the Jordan River its main tributary. 

The lake's surface is 430.5 metres below sea level, making its shores the lowest land-based elevation on earth. 

The Lowest Route in the World is a collaboration between the three regional councils in the area and is geared to making the Dead Sea Land more accessible for visitors and tourists. 

It will provide visitors with the chance to plan and map an independent route to various attractions and sites, based on their interests. 

It is hoped that the development of the Lowest Route in the World, will be able to establish the area as a tourist route in the way as the Camino de Santiago Cross-Israel Trail. 

www.deadsea.co.il 

Sophie Horstead at sophiehorstead@welcometofrank.com

Israel, a Middle Eastern country, is regarded by Jews, Christians and Muslims as the biblical Holy Land

Israel

Its most sacred sites are in Jerusalem, and within its Old City, the Temple Mount complex includes the Dome of the Rock shrine, the historic Western Wall, Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. 

Israel's financial hub, Tel Aviv, is known for its Bauhaus architecture and beaches. 

Israel is situated on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean where Asia meets Africa. 

This location means it enjoys fine weather, long hot summers and mild, pleasant winters. 

Spring & Autumn tend to have the best weather, but sun worshipers will revel in Israel’s sunny, sizzling summers. 

Those who love staying active in winter will enjoy visiting Israel’s south to explore the Negev desert and appreciate Eilat’s year-round sun and access to water sports. 

There is a range of boutique or large resort hotels in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem or the Green north, which is being referred to as 'Wine Country'. 

www.goisrael.com 

Go Israel is a member of ANTOR (the Association of National Tourism Organisations, which is the principle lobbying organization for the world's tourist offices. www.antor.com

IMTM 2022 - The biggest Tourism Expo in the Eastern Mediterranean - Important Update!

We had many deliberations and consultations with various professionals from the Health and Tourism industries regarding holding the IMTM 2022 during its original scheduled dates or to postpone, due to the current rise of Omicron and the high morbidity around the world.

Concurrently the government of Israel changed the foreign entry policy and soon vaccinated foreign visitors will be welcome to enter Israel from non-red countries, subject to a PCR test prior to departure and another test upon arrival.

As the IMTM 2022 original scheduled dates are only 4 weeks ahead of us, we decided to take a precautional step and to postpone the exhibition to March 29-30, 2022.

These dates were carefully chosen based on the venue availability, holidays and after taking into account the status and dates of other tourism exhibitions around the world.

With this new date, we hope to open the 2022 tourism season with you and to enjoy together the beautiful, healthy and pleasant spring weather in Tel Aviv.

Don't forget to hurry up and secure your exhibition space at the IMTM 2022 on the new date.


Happy New Healthy Year to you and your loved ones!!

Yours faithfully,
IMTM Organizers

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

The benefits of vaccinating against COVID-19

At the outset I believe it is important to state that COVID-19 vaccination is a safer way to help build protection. If you get sick you could spread the disease to friends, family, and others around you. Clinical trials of ALL vaccines must first show they are safe and effective before any vaccine can be authorised or approved for use, including COVID-19 vaccines.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) not only advises that vaccines save millions of lives each year, but they also reduce transmissions. They and their partners are working together on tracking the pandemic, advising on critical interventions and distributing vital medical supplies to those in need, thereby reducing the number of infected people to transmit the virus.

Vaccines work by training and preparing the body’s natural defences — the immune system — to recognise and fight off the viruses they target. After vaccination, if the body is later exposed, the body is immediately ready to destroy them, preventing illness.

WHO states on its website that, “Since February 2021, at least seven different vaccines have been rolled out. Vulnerable populations in all countries are the highest priority for vaccination.

“It is understandable that some people may be concerned about getting vaccinated now that COVID-19 vaccines are available. While more COVID-19 vaccines are being developed as quickly as possible, routine processes and procedures remain in place to ensure the safety of any vaccine that is authorised or approved for use. Safety is a top priority, and there are many reasons to get vaccinated,” they stressed.

One of the most frequent asked questions (FAQs) is can a COVID-19 vaccine make you sick with COVID-19? The simple answer is no, as none of the COVID-19 vaccines contain the live virus.

According to the USA’s Center for Disease Control (CDC) the benefits of getting a COVID-19 jab will help keep you from getting the virus. All COVID-19 vaccines currently available in the United States have been shown to be highly effective at preventing COVID-19.

They add, “Based on what we know about vaccines for other diseases and early data from clinical trials, experts believe that getting a COVID-19 vaccine may also help keep you from getting seriously ill even if you do get COVID-19 and may also protect people around you, particularly people at increased risk.“

The CDC reminds us that wearing masks and social distancing help reduce the chance of being exposed to the virus or spreading it to others, but these measures are not enough. Vaccines will work with your immune system so it will be ready to fight the virus if exposed.

Australia’s government says vaccination is the most effective way to protect against infectious diseases. Vaccines strengthen your immune system by training it to recognise and fight against specific viruses. They add that when you get vaccinated, you are protecting yourself and helping to protect the whole community by slowing down the spread of the disease. Achieving herd or social immunity is a long-term goal. It usually requires a large amount of the population to be vaccinated.

The CDC notes that people who have already had COVID-19 or tested positive may still benefit from getting the COVID-19 vaccination. There is not enough information currently available to say if or for how long people are protected from getting COVID-19 after they have had it (natural immunity). Early evidence suggests natural immunity from COVID-19 may not last very long, but more studies are needed to better understand this.

In Australia the government say that wearing a mask and physical distance is still important, “It may take time for everyone who wants a COVID-19 vaccination to get one. A vaccine that is 95% effective means that about 1 out of 20 people who get it may not have protection from getting the illness,” they advise online.

Some people never show symptoms so vaccinations are important. There is a common confusion between pre-symptomatic spread (people who spread the virus before showing symptoms) and asymptomatic spread (spreading the virus by someone who never shows any symptoms). The former is one of the hallmarks of the pandemic, the latter much less common. What is important to understand is that everyone agrees vaccines reduce transmission. So why wouldn’t you take the vaccine that are tested to be safe and federally approved? I read comments like “it’s poison” and “does not work” on social media, but the science and three stage testing, prior to receiving government approval, dispel all that.

An Israeli study found that from 100 vaccinated patients, those who received both doses of the vaccine did not become carriers of the virus and cannot spread it further.

Israel is one of the most vaccinated countries in the world and has compiled comprehensive data.

A new study has also found a reduction in transmission rates even after the first dose. Those who test positive for Covid-19 showed that twelve or more days after taking the first dose have a viral load that’s four times lower than those who have not been vaccinated. Those receiving the vaccine became far less of a COVID transmission risk even before receiving their second dose.

Being less of a risk would allow more freedom to travel with significantly lower transmissions, especially when coupled with mask wearing, social distancing and frequent hand washing.

University Professor Cohen linked to the Israeli study and member of the official Health Ministry Advisory Committee on coronavirus vaccines, said: “This shows that indeed, besides reducing symptoms and hopefully mortality, the vaccine may facilitate reaching some kind of herd immunity, allowing the partial protection of the weak or non-immunised.”

The question to open borders to vaccinated visitors is now looking more and more likely as the risk to do so is manageable.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Signum Hotels continue aggressive International expansion

Founded by seasoned hotelier Mehul Sharma, Signum Hotels & Resorts is all set to penetrate the Greek & Israel market. Signum Hotels announced the tie up with Israel-based Frank Group to develop and manage the company's upcoming hotel portfolio across both destinations.

The Frank Group is an international holding and investment group of companies with highly diversified activities. The company is greatly experienced and active in Israel & EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) in the fields of real estate, tourism, high-tech ventures, energy, homeland security and holds numerous business connections around the world. Frank Group has been investing in Israel, Europe, USA and in the last five years, especially in Greece.

Announcing the signing, Mehul Sharma, Founder & CEO - Signum Hotels & Resorts said, ‘we continue our focus on the company's International expansion and this signing is a significant step towards our vision of marking Signum’s presence at exceptional destinations globally. We are elated to partner with the Frank Group and look forward to a promising journey together.’

On the tie-up with Signum Hotels, Elad Frank, CEO - Frank Group said, ‘we are happy to partner with Signum Hotels to expand our hospitality footprint in the Greek & Israel market. We will also be transforming our properties in islands and mainland to Signum hotels strengthening our strategic partnership further.’

Under the exclusive arrangement with Frank Group, Signum Hotels will develop a significant portfolio of more than 15 hotels across Greece and Israel, over the course of next 3-5 years. The first Signum hotel in Greece is expected to be operational within the next 12 months.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Sheraton Hotels & Resorts Inspires Future Journeys as the Iconic Brand's New Vision Debuts Around the World

From Dubai to Denver, Marriott International's Most Global Brand Pulls Back the Curtain with First Look At New Design

With travelers dreaming of new discoveries in 2021, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts is ready to welcome them as it unveils the initial hotels around the world exemplifying the brand's new vision: Sheraton Phoenix Downtown, USA; Sheraton Denver Downtown, USA; Sheraton Tel Aviv, Israel; Sheraton Grand Dubai, UAE; Sheraton Guangzhou, China and Sheraton Mianyang, China.

Following Marriott International's announcement in 2018 of its plans to refresh the iconic brand for today's travelers, the completion of the renovations at these hotels is an important milestone in the brand's reinvention journey. There is now momentum building for the transformation, with over 40 hotels around the world expected to reflect the new brand vision by the end of 2022.

“This is a pivotal moment for Sheraton as we see hotel owners embracing the new vision and bringing it to life for the first time,” said Amanda Nichols, Senior Director and Global Brand Leader of Sheraton Hotels. “Over the past 80 years, Sheraton has always offered guests the time-honored assurance of a welcoming community. We're proud to have built on this legacy in the new concept, creating an environment where guests can enjoy all the familiar comforts of the Sheraton brand, but with fresh, contemporary updates. As travel resumes, we look forward to welcoming guests into this new chapter for Sheraton.”

Drawing on its roots as a community hub for locals and guests at flagship locations globally, the new approach for Sheraton creates an intuitive and holistic experience with places to connect, be productive and feel part of something. The layered design approach, balancing a sense of timelessness with a fresh and modern feel, aims to create an environment where guests feel comfortable and at ease, whether working, meeting or relaxing.

A Modern-Day “Public Square”

At the heart of the new Sheraton experience is the lobby. This has been re-imagined as the “Public Square” of the hotel; a holistic, open space that invites people to join together or be alone amongst others, creating a sense of energy and belonging. With a flow that is natural, intuitive and uncomplicated, guests have what they need within arm's reach, all set against an inviting backdrop that feels warm and comfortable yet refined.

Built into the new design are signature elements such as the Community Table, an inviting, purpose-built workspace that will anchor each hotel's lobby and allow guests to work, eat and drink while soaking up the energy of the space. Following Sheraton's philosophy to embrace both form and function, these tables are custom designed with amenities to keep guests productive, including built-in lighting, outlets and wireless charging stations.

The Studios, flexible gathering spaces available to book whenever a guest needs it, celebrate collaborative working and connecting with others in a less formal setting. Built on raised platforms and enclosed with glass, the tech-enabled Studios welcome guests to contribute to the energy of the public space while also providing privacy and focus for everything from small group meetings to private dining experiences. Soundproof booths are also strategically placed throughout the lobby, perfect for a spontaneous phone call to connect privately with friends, family or colleagues from afar.

Built with its global, productivity-focused guest in mind, Sheraton's new elevated food & beverage philosophy creates a focal point in the lobby experience. Part bar, part coffee bar, part market, the Coffee Bar Bar is a central pillar of the new Sheraton vision, transitioning guests seamlessly from day to night with food & beverage options that are locally-sourced, easy to consume while working and customizable to accommodate all tastes and time schedules.

Guest Rooms & Club Lounges That Champion Productivity

In the new guest rooms, guests are welcomed into a bright, well-lit space with warm, residential appeal, comprised of soft finishes and light wood tones accentuated with black metal accents. The rooms have been reimagined with new tools for productivity, such as a height-adjustable work table, integrated power and charging and layered lighting; while still retaining some of the classic Sheraton signature amenities, including the luxurious Sheraton Sleep Experience platform bed. The guest bathroom has also been completely redesigned with new and modern walk-in showers and bath amenities by Gilchrist & Soames.

The Sheraton Club Lounge, an exclusive space for Marriott Bonvoy Elite members and Sheraton Club level guests, has also undergone an upgrade as part of the transformation. The new design ensures the space is welcoming, elevated and purposefully designed for a layered and engaging experience that transitions seamlessly with activations from morning to evening. Guests will find updated food and beverage offerings, premium amenities, enhanced connectivity, and 24/7 access to provide a private environment.

Commitment to Clean

Sheraton Hotels are following Marriott International's Commitment to Clean protocols, created in partnership with leading experts in food and water safety, hygiene and infection prevention, and hotel operations. These protocols include mandated mask wearing for all associates within the hotel, and the use of disinfectants recommended by the Centers for Disease Control in the country/region where the hotel operates and the World Health Organization to sanitize surfaces in the hotels.

A Continuous Journey

There are currently 446 Sheraton hotels in 74 countries and territories around the world, making it Marriott International's most global brand. In 2021, Sheraton Hotels will continue on its transformation journey, with the brand expecting to showcase new guest experience programs and complete renovations in locations including Nashville, USA; Toronto, Canada; Nice, France; Kiev, Ukraine; and Xi'an, China.

For a full set of photos of the six first redesigned hotels, please click HERE

To find out more about the new Sheraton experience, visit: https://sheraton.marriott.com/experience/new-sheraton/

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au
Website: marriotthoteldeals.com.au

Tags: Sheraton Hotels, Marriott International, Marriott Bonvoy, Commitment To Clean, Sheraton

Wendy Wu Tours Expands Product Offering to Include the Middle East

For the first time in its 26-year history, Wendy Wu Tours will be leading tours to the Middle East in 2021. Featured in its new Central Asia + Middle East brochure, the product offering includes a range of fully inclusive Classic Tours to Egypt, Israel, Jordan and Oman, plus new tours to Georgia and Uzbekistan.

“The Middle East has long been a drawcard for Australians, it's also a destination that's a perfect fit within our current product range, tour styles and experience,” says Andrew Mulholland, Managing Director, Wendy Wu Tours Australia.

“Our Middle East itineraries showcase the very best Egypt, Israel, Jordan and Oman have to offer, customers will experience all the culture, history and iconic sights the region is renowned for, done the Wendy Wu way.”

In addition to its expansion into the Middle East, the leading tour operator will also offer a 14-day fully inclusive tour to Ecuador, as well as Antarctica cruises which can be done as either a pre or post-holiday extension. Also included in its 2021/22 product offering is a 15-day tour to the Philippines – another new destination for 2021.

The new 21-day Thailand & Mekong Experience is the first group tour to combine Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia + four nights cruising onboard Wendy Wu Tours very own deluxe river cruise ship Victoria Mekong.

Wendy Wu Tours has established its Travel with Confidence program which was developed in consultation with the UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organisation), WTTC (World Travel & Tourism Council) as well as local government regulations across Asia, Latin America and the Middle East.

“In the new COVID-19 world we live in, health and safety are paramount. We are proud of what we have developed. These new safety protocols cover every element of the holiday experience from accommodation and dining to transport and sightseeing as well as customer's health and safety both overseas and on return to Australia.

“Our Book with Confidence guarantee provides our customers extra assurance with low deposit and extended final payments to 75 days prior to departure,” says Mulholland

Wendy Wu Tours is seeing an increased demand for solo travellers, it's for this reason it now has dedicated solo departures on popular tours to Vietnam, China, India and Japan. Customers will relish in being part of a smaller group, but also be able to relax in the comfort of their own room at the end of the day's touring – plus there's no single supplement to pay.

“With 26 years of experience escorting customers on dream holidays, we understand that everyone has their own travel style which is why we offer group tours, independent touring, solo departures and private tours. Our 2021/22 brochure collection has options to suit every type of traveller.”

Wendy Wu Tours has also unveiled a new website which will help planning and booking holidays much easier.

To view the 2021/22 brochure collection and new website visit http://www.wendywutours.com.au/brochures

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au
Website: www.wendywutours.com.au/

Top 20 Luxury Trips for 2020 Revealed

The summer issue of Luxury Escapes Magazine is out now revealing the best luxury travel experiences you need to take in 2020 (and beyond).

From the ultra indulgence of arriving via private jet to a presidential suite in Las Vegas, to swimming with majestic whales in the South Pacific, we highlight experiences that'll have you counting down the days to your next trip.

“According to Luxury Escapes' newly released research, where it surveyed close to 20,000 travellers, we're now far more adventurous in our travel,” says editor of Luxury Escapes Magazine, Kirstie Bedford.

“It's changed not only what we expect in a holiday, but where we want to go. While destinations like the USA, UK and Europe are still popular, people are becoming increasingly interested in destinations that have a lot of history and culture, like Japan, Cyprus, Israel and India.

“This type of research is what we always consider when putting together travel inspiration for our readers, to ensure we're directly meeting their needs.”

The issue isn't all about experiences, though. For those who prefer to fly and flop, we take you to an eastern Indonesian island most people have never heard of, where you can sip cocktails by a secluded beach while horses gallop by.

We go soul searching in Ireland and undergo century-old natural therapies, then spice things up in Singapore, discovering the food fusion beckoning the discerning diner.

There's a trip back in time as we travel from Peru's colonial-era capital of Arequipa to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu onboard Peru's first luxury train that tracks across the country's south.

Closer to home we hit the top end of town (and some laneways) in Australia's cultural capital, Melbourne, then dive into the deep in the Rowley Shoals, a marine wonderland 300 kilometres from Broome and visited by fewer than 300 people a year.

EXPEDIA REVEALS DEMAND DRIVERS AND RISING MARKETS TO THAILAND

China and India continue to be big drivers of Expedia Group’s Thailand bookings, while the UAE, Israel and South Africa are emerging as high-value markets according to the group’s data.

Thai accommodation partners are enjoying steady growth as evidenced by Expedia Group’s data, which showed the overall inbound demand to Thailand has increased by 10% year-on-year over the past 12 months.

Based on demand generated by Expedia Group’s extensive portfolio of travel brands, the US remains the largest market to Thailand, with demand growing by 20% year-on-year.

China now is the second largest market to Thailand, surpassing Japan, Hong Kong and South Korea for the first time in the past two years.

Alongside China’s strong performance, India also upped its game, moving up three ranks to gain a place in Thailand’s top 10 international markets.

Notably, Chinese and Indian travellers show a growing appetite for premium accommodation – more than 60% of the bookings made by Chinese, 55% of bookings made by Indians were for four- and five-star hotels.

This trend is in line with the Thai government’s focus to attract more high-end arrivals from China and India.

In terms of popular destinations, Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya are the most visited cities among Chinese and Indian travellers.

Hua Hin (110%), Koh Phi Phi (100%) and Koh Lipe (100%) are rising markets with Expedia seeing triple-digit demand increase during the same period.

In particular, the data uncovered that Chinese travellers are the driving force behind the strong demand for packages into Thailand – almost one in three international package bookings were made by Chinese. China is also the fastest growing market for packages as demand skyrocketed by 200% year-on-year.

India is trending in the same direction, with package demand up by 160 %. Other markets tracking triple-digit growth in package demand include Ireland (130%), South Korea (120%) and Indonesia (100%).

Diving deep into some new emerging international markets that showed impressive growth momentum, Expedia Group confirms that the UAE, South Africa and Israel are the new high-end markets that hoteliers should capitalise on.

Travellers from these markets typically spend 15% more on accommodation and stay one day longer than the average international counterparts. Moreover, a whopping 70% of the total bookings made by these nationalities were in four- and five-star hotels where travellers paid 50% more on daily accommodation.

Read the full article at TTG Asia: http://www.ttgasia.com/2019/06/12/expedia-reveals-demand-drivers-and-rising-markets-to-thailand/

Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office
c/o 3rd Floor, Department of Tourism, Ministry of Tourism and Sports, 154 Rama 1 Road, National Stadium, Wangmai, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Web: www.mekongtourism.org
Tel: +66 2038 5071-1
Mobile: +66 8555 44234, +66 8098 95853

Viking Announces Newest World Cruise

Viking has announced its new 2020-2021 Viking World Cruise, which will span 161 days, six continents and 75 ports, with overnight stays in 13 cities. Setting sail on December 14, 2020 from Miami, the itinerary will include six new ports of call for Viking, including Honolulu and Nawiliwili, marking the company's inaugural visit to the Hawaiian Islands.

Sailing on Viking's award-winning 930-guest all-veranda Viking Sun, this grand voyage will allow guests to explore islands of the Caribbean and the South Pacific; call upon ports in Asia, from Hong Kong to Bangkok; explore countries of the Middle East, including Oman, Jordan, Egypt and Israel; and sail through the Mediterranean before concluding in London. Guests can also choose a shorter, 140-day segment of the sailing, 2021 Viking World Discoveries, which departs from Los Angeles in January 4, 2021, and visits 27 countries and 66 ports.

“With the announcement of our newest World Cruise, we remain firm in our commitment to offer travelers the most immersive and culturally enriching itineraries available,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “We are a destination-focused travel company, and it has always been our priority to help our guests connect to the destination. It is evident in everything we do – it is why we offer an included excursion in every port; why we have the most extensive Resident Historian program in the industry; and why our ships are smaller to bring travelers to more intimate ports.”

2020-2021 Viking World Cruise Highlights:
Viking's newest World Cruise itinerary visits dozens of the world's preeminent cities in one seamless itinerary. Overnight stays in 13 cities allow World Cruise guests to delve deeper into the destination, and Viking's Culture Curriculum® offers additional enrichment through onboard lectures and entertainment – such as Viking's Resident Historian® program, which provides guests with a high-level historical and cultural education specific to their journey. Guests will immerse themselves in the world's rich cultures during included excursions that provide unmatched insight into daily life, as well as Privileged Access® visits to cultural institutions. Highlights of the new 2020-2021 Viking World Cruise itinerary include:

• Oahu (Honolulu), Hawaii (NEW): The Heart of Hawaii: Guests can enjoy everything from historic landmarks to world-class shopping on the island of Oahu. Soak up the sun along Waikiki Beach's pristine beaches or visit Pearl Harbor to see where the tragic events of December 7, 1941 unfolded.
• Kauai (Nawiliwili), Hawaii (NEW): The Garden Island: Nicknamed Hawaii's “Garden Island,” guests will explore the lush vegetation and wildflowers of tropical Kauai while in port. Visit the Na Āina Kai Botanical Gardens & Sculpture Park, an infusion of beautiful flora and art and home to one of the largest collections of bronze sculptures in the U.S., or follow the footsteps of Captain James Cook, the British explorer credited with the first recorded European contact with the Hawaiian Islands.
• Moorea (Opunohu Bay), French Polynesia (NEW): Paradise in the Tropics: This tropical island is famed for its unprecedented beauty and its cuisine is as colorful as its landscape, drawing on influences from both European and Chinese settlers. Guests can take in this idyllic paradise from the water onboard a catamaran or immerse themselves in Polynesian traditions and customs by engaging with locals.
• Hue (Chan May), Vietnam (NEW): Palaces and Temples: Discover the ancient Imperial City of Hue, a rich repository of palaces and temples and seat of the Nguyen Dynasty for 150 years. Guests can experience the locals' morning trading activities during a visit to a traditional food market or explore the crumbling stone walls of the citadel, which holds stories of long-fought battles.
• Sydney, Australia: Iconic Harbor: Guests will sail into Sydney's magnificent harbor, the world's largest, and enjoy an overnight stay allowing ample time to explore this culture-rich city. Guests can enjoy an insider's view of Australia's world-class opera house or experience the natural wonders of the nearby Blue Mountains.
• Mumbai, India: A City of Old and New: Formerly Bombay, the bustling city of Mumbai is the financial, commercial and entertainment capital of India. While in port, guests can learn about the iconic activist Gandhi or enjoy the Hanging Gardens, one of the prized few parks found in the city.
• Istanbul, Turkey: Where East Meets West: An overnight stay in Istanbul gives guests more time to experience this historic city that straddles two continents across the Bosporus Strait. Explore a wealth of religious sites such as the spectacular Blue Mosque or the legendary Hagia Sophia, or sample delicious fusion cuisine, combining fresh Mediterranean fare with spices from the Far East and Asia.
• London (Greenwich), England: The Royal Borough: Guests will end their sailing in the historic Royal Borough of Greenwich, London on the Thames River, allowing easy access to the regal capital's iconic sights, including the Tower of London, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and St. Paul's Cathedral.

Booking Details
Pricing for the 2020-2021 Viking World Cruise starts at $85,995 per person and 2021 Viking World Discoveries starts at $75,995 per person, based on double-occupancy. Both of Viking's new world cruise itineraries include Business Class international air, transfers to and from the ship, all gratuities and service fees, complimentary visa services, the Silver Spirits Beverage Package, and free luggage shipping services for embarkation.

Website: www.vikingcruises.com.au

Company Closes Year with Milestone +$1B in Reservations; Revenue Production for Global Independent Hotel Market

Lindsey Ueberroth

Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the world's largest global provider of sales, marketing and distribution services to independent luxury hotels, today announced its 2015 year-end results. Last year, the company marked a major milestone in its 48-year history by generating more than $1 billion ($1.011B) in reservations revenue on behalf of its member hotels worldwide, a 15% increase over the previous year. In a pivotal move, Preferred Hotels & Resorts successfully executed a comprehensive rebranding in March 2015 that marked the onset of its new consumer-focused strategy, and also welcomed 91 new properties across 35 countries to its global portfolio.

“Preferred Hotels & Resorts successfully achieved several major milestones in 2015, and I am incredibly proud of these accomplishments that have us well positioned for significant, focused growth,” said President & CEO Lindsey Ueberroth. “With an innovative approach to hospitality, we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing curated travel experiences and innovative travel services with a continuous focus on brand integrity. We are excited to undertake the many opportunities for growth and collaboration that 2016 will bring.”

When Preferred Hotels & Resorts introduced its new master brand architecture on March 4, 2015, the company kicked off a series of events to support its goal of driving stronger brand clarity and greater awareness for its one-of-a-kind portfolio. These programs included a 14-country public relations tour by Ueberroth and key executives to educate global media audiences on the mission of the new Preferred Hotels & Resorts; the launch of Preferred Travel magazine, which is available in each of the brand's 650 member hotels worldwide; and the introduction of #ThePreferredLife, a comprehensive social media campaign that inspires travelers to pursue and share authentic, memorable travel moments. A new brand ad campaign and further updates to its website will be unveiled later this year.

As part of its commitment to serve as the world's most trusted resource for unique independent hotel experiences, Preferred Hotels & Resorts also expanded its global portfolio to offer more options in key destinations. In 2015, the brand marked first-time presence in Israel, Ecuador, and Anguilla with the additions of The Carlton Tel Aviv, Royal Palm Hotel Galapagos, and Zemi Beach House Resort & Spa, respectively, and enhanced its footprint in markets such as Barcelona, Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Florida (USA), and Seoul. Among the other properties that joined the portfolio include Wanda Reign on the Bund (Shanghai); Bernini Palace Hotel (Florence, Italy); NOMO SOHO (New York); Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort (Monaco); The Cove, Eleuthera (Bahamas); Carlton Ambassador (The Hague, Netherlands); Nassima Royal Hotel (Dubai); Hotel Mousai (Puerto Vallarta, Mexico); Discovery Shores Boracay (Philippines); QF Hotel Dresden (Germany); and Hotel Emma (San Antonio, Texas).

For more information on Preferred Hotels & Resorts, its member hotels, programs, products, and services, visit www.PreferredHotels.com.

Preferred Hotels & Resorts

Preferred Hotels & Resorts is the world's largest independent hotel brand, representing more than 650 distinctive hotels, resorts, residences, and unique hotel groups across 85 countries. Through its five global collections, Preferred Hotels & Resorts connects discerning travelers to the singular luxury hospitality experience that meets their life and style preferences for each occasion. Every property within the portfolio maintains the high quality standards and unparalleled service levels required by the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Integrated Quality Assurance Program. The iPrefer™ guest loyalty program, Preferred Residences℠, Preferred Family℠, Preferred Pride℠, and Preferred Golf™ offer valuable benefits for travelers seeking a unique experience. For more information, visit PreferredHotels.com.

Israel marks record inbound tourism in 2013

Israel saw an increasing number inbound travelers, despite blizzard and disrupted flight schedules. The number of entries has broken all records in December 2013. The tourism minister announced that 272,000 people entered in December and the year saw 3.5 million travelers in Israel.

The percentage of tourist entering Israel increased to a double in 2013 than 2012, according to the Central Bureau of Statistics. The number of visitors to Israel was 14 percent higher in December 2013 alone.

Of the 272,000 entries recorded in December 2013, 241,000 were by tourists, 24% more than in December 2012 and 12% and 11% more than December 2010 and 2011, respectively. Two hundred and eleven thousand entries were by air, 22% more than in December 2012, while the other arrivals were made through the various land crossings into Israel. December 2012, while the other arrivals were made through the various land crossings into Israel.

The leading home countries for incoming tourism were said to be the United States, Russia, France, Germany and the United Kingdom. Tourism’s contribution to Israel’s economy was reported to be some NIS 40 billion ($11.42 billion).

Jerusalem saw the maximum visitations with 75% of the visitation here; the Western Wall was the most visited site with 68% going there.

53% Christian’s visitors came to Israel followed by 28% Jews. Tourists have recorded a satisfaction rate of 4.3 out of 5 and also particularly remarked on the improved behavior of the attitude of the Israeli public.

A 3% increase was also marked in domestic tourism. Tourists were also said to be eschewing hotels for alternative accommodation, such as youth hostels.

The tourism minister will continually invest in tourism by opening new markets and actively market the tourism products. 

Tourists, Pilgrims Celebrate Christmas in Bethlehem

The festive mood was palpable as thousands of tourists and pilgrims thronged Bethlehem for Christmas Eve celebrations. The huge turnout in Bethlehem – the birthplace of Jesus Christ, helped to lift the spirits of the residents of Palestine as they prayed for a war-free year ahead.

Tourists in large numbers were seen thronging Manger Square, often stopping by at restaurants or standing in front of the illuminated Christmas tree.

It was definitely a positive vibe in Bethlehem amidst the peace talks between Israel and Palestine. Although some seemed skeptical regarding the speculated Israel-Palestine truce; the entire travel industry believes that the new year will bring an end to the ongoing unrest.