Travel & tourism sector witnessed 29.6% decline in deal activity during January 2021

A total of 57 deals were announced in the global travel and tourism sector during January 2021, which is a decrease of 29.6% over 81 deals announced in December 2020, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

Aurojyoti Bose, Lead Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The travel and tourism sector has been one of the hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic with ongoing lockdowns in some of the key markets and travel restrictions bringing business travels mostly to a halt. Resultantly, deal-making appetite also remains muted.”

The number of equity offerings, venture financing, mergers and acquisition (M&A), and private equity deals decreased during January 2021 compared to the previous month, while debt offerings deal volume increased.

Deal activity decreased in key markets such as the US, the UK, China and South Korea during January 2021 compared to the previous month.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

ABORIGINAL STUDENTS TO BENEFIT FROM FINE DINING TRAINING

Rockpool Bar and Grill, Catalina, Icebergs Dining and Aria are some of the fine dining restaurants offering pre-apprentice courses for aspiring Aboriginal chefs across NSW.

Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee said the National Indigenous Culinary Institute Skills for Success program has trained more than 200 participants since 2012.

“Ten students this year have had the chance to get up close and personal with some of the best chefs in the most prestigious restaurants in the entire country.

“This creates a direct training pathway for the participants to be employed as paid commercial cookery apprentices in fine dining restaurants. It also completes their formal training qualifications with TAFE NSW while being mentored by Australia’s leading chefs in their own restaurants,” Mr Lee said.

The National Indigenous Culinary Institute was designed to offer elite training and experience for aspiring Aboriginal chefs with training and mentoring being provided by Australia’s top chefs at host restaurants.

National Indigenous Culinary Institute Chief Executive Nathan Lovett said: “The 2021 program again provides the necessary skills to our participants to be successful apprentices working in Australia’s top restaurants. 2020 also allowed us to expand into regional areas of NSW, but we have really embraced the opportunity to grow our flagship program here in Sydney this year.”

This week the NSW Government also opened applications for the 2021 NAIDOC Grants program, which supports NSW activities and events held during NAIDOC Week (4 – 11 July 2021) that celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and achievements.

Grants of up to $3,000 are available with applications closing on Friday 23 April. For more information, visit the website.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Destination NSW
https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/

Six Reasons to Hit the Road for the Nation's Capital These School Holidays

1) Wake up in the Wild at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
There has never been a better time to experience Canberra's iconic wildlife sanctuary than with the ultimate sleepover – A Wild Night Out at Tidbinbilla (2-17 April). Only 45 minutes' drive from the city centre, spend a night under the stars in the comforts of a family glamping tent. With ranger-guided activities and talks, dinner by the campfire and much more, there's a lot to learn and appreciate about this area on the northern edge of Australia's Alps.

2) Get arty and admire a world-class exhibition - Botticelli to Van Gogh

Take some time with the kids and admire the incredible artworks in the exclusive Botticelli to Van Gogh: Masterpieces from the National Gallery London at the National Gallery of Australia (5 March – 14 June). The exhibition includes 60 artworks from one of the most significant collections of European paintings in the world. There are kids' activities to keep your budding artists captivated too.

3) Enjoy a floating picnic on a GoBoat - Ahoy!

Take turns wearing the captain's hat in a GoBoat on Lake Burley Griffin – no boat licence needed! Pack a picnic and float along the lake as you play spot the attractions and landmarks that line the lake's foreshore with the kids. It is a fun way to enjoy Canberra from a completely new angle.

4) Discover the delightful Gold Creek Village

Located on the city's outskirts, Gold Creek Village is a wonderous surprise offering a mixed bag of activities and attractions for all the family to enjoy. Dino-fanatics of all ages can have a Jurassic Park-like adventure at the National Dinosaur Museum. With the largest permanent collection of interactive dinosaurs in Australia – get up close and personal to the skeletons and fossils and join a fun and educational tour to experience a journey through time – snap a selfie and say hello to Stan the T-Rex– a 20-metre-long dinosaur! Explore the whimsical Cockington Green Gardens; it is a charming miniature village with its own houses, iconic international buildings, lakes, perfectly manicured lawns and even a steam train for all to ride - all aboard! Stop for a sweet at The Lolly Shop, famed for its floor-to-ceiling collection of every type of confectionery imaginable – take your pick!

5) Climb, play or explore the bush capital

A natural wonderland, Canberra is built around a lake and surrounded by mountains. There's plenty of open space to let the kids race around and green hills to roll down at the National Arboretum Canberra, but make sure you save some time to explore the magical Pod Playground. It features giant acorn-shaped cubbies and banksia pods at various heights connected by rope tunnels and tube slides and climbing nets. Take your teenagers for a spin on a guided Segway tour with SegGlideRideit's a fun way to zip around Lake Burley Griffin foreshore. You'll find plenty of wildlife on our doorstep too - Search for bettongs at the Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary, spot kangaroos lazing under the trees at Weston Park, or water dragons basking in the sun at the Australian National Botanic Gardens.

6) Family foodie favourites

There are more than the average family-friendly dining spots that won't break the bank—the hard part, which one to choose. You don't want to miss Braddon's dining precinct. It offers something for the fussiest of eaters and budgets – indulge on tasty sweet treats and gourmet paninis from Sonoma Bakery, scrumptious wood-fired pizza from Pizza Gusto and delicious homemade ice cream or gelato from Frugii Dessert Laboratory. Make the most of the mild autumn afternoons and roll out the picnic rug to enjoy fish and chips from Snapper by the Lake there is plenty of space for the kids to run around as well.

If you're looking for more fun-filled family activities these April school holidays be sure to check out www.visitcanberra.com.au

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Tags: Easter school holidays, school holidays, Family Travel, Family, Canberra, Things to do with the Kids

Da Lat aims to welcome more than 4 million visitors in 2021

The resort city of Da Lat in the Central Highlands province of Lam Dong aims to welcome more than 4 million visitors, including 150,000 foreigners in 2021, according to the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

In 2020, the city’s tourism sector was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and it failed to meet its goal of serving 7.8 million visitors, including over 580,000 international tourists.

Only 4 million vacationers, including 120,000 foreigners, visited Da Lat last year, down 44 percent from 2019.

The city saw the arrival of around 70,000 holiday-makers during the three-day New Year 2021 holiday, signalling positive signs for the city’s tourism sector in the coming year.

Lam Dong province now has more than 2,540 accommodation facilities with over 29,400 rooms, 47 travel companies and transport providers.

Source: VNA
Tags: Da Lat, visitors, 2021,

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

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

Shortlist for the 2021 Experience Mekong Showcases announced

Created four years ago in September 2017 to both recognize and encourage sustainable and responsible tourism development, 72 Experience Mekong Collection (EMC) member businesses have been shortlisted – ten from each of the six GMS member countries plus the two finalists from last year that did not win – to determine the final six businesses to be recognized for the third annual Experience Mekong Showcases via public voting (https://www.destinationmekong.com/experience-mekong-showcases2021-voting/), announced at the 2nd Virtual Destination Mekong Summit in May 2021. The “Experience Mekong Collection” curates small, responsible, and sustainable travel businesses in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), endorsed by members of the Mekong Tourism Advisory Group (https://www.destinationmekong.com/mekong-tourism-advisory-group/) and is a collection of inspirational, rewarding, and authentic experiences that minimize negative impacts and generate greater benefits for the people of the GMS and enhance the well-being of host communities. This year’s shortlisted businesses were each examined in great detail regarding their practices, tangible impact on the environment and social climate, innovation, and financial viability.

Each business needs to fulfill the following requirements:

• Make a significant social impact on its community
• Provide an authentically local experience positioning the GMS as a responsible, inclusive, and experiential tourism destination.
• Have an innovative concept and sustainable business model.

“The importance of responsible tourism cannot be underestimated and the ‘Experience Mekong Collection’ is a wonderful way of highlighting examples of good practice. Social enterprises have the potential to drive sustainable tourism and to promote the Mekong Region as an experiential and responsible travel destination. We aim to tell their stories to inspire travelers to experience these “stars of the Mekong,” said Mr. Jens Thraenhart, Executive Director of the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO).

In January 2020, at the FITUR travel trade show in Madrid, Spain, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) featured the Experience Mekong Collection as a global best practice on tourism aligned to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

For more information about the Experience Mekong Collection and the Experience Mekong Showcases, please visit:  - https://www.destinationmekong.com/initiatives/experience-mekong-collection/ and  - https://www.destinationmekong.com/initiatives/experience-mekong-showcases/ and 
- watch the Experience Mekong Collection video at https://youtu.be/3g3ecnIWH9s and 
- the Experience Mekong Destination video at https://youtu.be/dpAbiiVwlI0. 

The Experience Mekong Collection program is aligned to our Mekong Heroes program (https://www.destinationmekong.com/initiatives/mekong-heroes/), part of our Mekong Responsible Travel mandate (www.MekongResponsibleTravel.com). 

During these challenging times, to support our small responsible travel businesses and protect the fragile tourism ecosystem of the Greater Mekong Subregion, the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office, together with Destination Mekong, last year launched the “Support Experience Mekong Collection Businesses” at: https://www.destinationmekong.com/projects/support-experience-mekong-collection-members/.

During this difficult time of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are afraid that many small businesses are struggling, and some may not survive. What makes travel in the Greater Mekong Subregion so unique and authentic are these small local enterprises and responsible operators. For some of these experiences to go away is like taking a part of the Mekong Region away. The Experience Mekong Collection not only creates a strong community for these small businesses to get through this difficult time, but also provides a powerful platform to accelerate the recovery process”, said Ms. Duangmala Phommavong, Managing Director of Exo Travel Laos, and a member of the Mekong Tourism Advisory Group (MeTAG).

By choosing one organization from each Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) country, the MTCO, along with the Mekong Tourism Advisory Group (MeTAG) endorses and selects “best practice” tourism organizations specifically committed to sustainable and responsible practices. As previously structured, each showcase organization is thematically categorized by either ‘DO’, ‘SHOP’, ‘STAY’, ‘TASTE’, ‘TOUR’, and ‘CRUISE’.

This year for the second time, the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO) is inviting the public to vote for their favorite Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) small businesses out of the 72 shortlisted members of the 350+ Experience Mekong Collection members to determine the 2021 Experience Mekong Showcases. Public voting is open until March 31, 2021. The top 3 businesses with the most votes from each country will move into the final, when the Mekong Tourism Advisory Group (MeTAG), the GMS Tourism Working Group (TWG), and the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO) help in selecting the six 2021 Experience Mekong Showcases – one from each GMS member country.

“In recognizing the most innovative best practice businesses as the Experience Mekong Showcases, this sets several benchmarks to further improve travel experiences in the Greater Mekong Subregion. We hope this motivates other operators to become more involved and do their part for responsible tourism,” said HE Mr. Htay Aung, former Minister of Hotels and Tourism of Myanmar, and a member of the Mekong Tourism Advisory Group (MeTAG).

The 2018 Experience Mekong Collection Showcases included Phare Cambodian Circus (Cambodia), Longji Rice Terraces Guangxi (PR China), Ock Pop Tok (Lao PDR), Inle Heritage Place (Myanmar), Local Alike (Thailand), and Koto (Viet Nam). The 2019 Experience Mekong Collection included Soksabike (Cambodia), Linden Centre (PR China), Elephant Conservation Centre (Lao PDR), Hla Day (Myanmar), Sampran Riverside (Thailand), and Streets International (Viet Nam). The 2020 Experience Mekong Showcases included Elephant Valley Project (Cambodia), Yangshuo Mountain Retreat (PR China), Laos Buffalo Dairy (Lao PDR), Living Irrawaddy Dolphin Project (Myanmar), Family Tree (Thailand), La Hoa – Flowers Speak (Viet Nam).

Please support these small businesses in these challenging times, and cast your vote for the 2021 Experience Mekong Showcases until March 31, 2021 by visiting: https://www.destinationmekong.com/experience-mekong-showcases2021-voting/

All members of the Experience Mekong Collection get exposure via channels of Mekong Tourism, including MekongTourism.org, ExperienceMekong.com, as well as the dedicated Experience Mekong Collection Facebook and Instagram accounts. Experience Mekong Collection members also have priority access to marketing campaigns and have their own dedicated online member-only community to connect with each other. Via a partnership with Mahidol University in Thailand, we bring these innovative best practices into the classroom to educate future leaders about the importance of responsible tourism and create case studies of the Experience Mekong Showcases to inspire the industry and other businesses. All cases studies can be downloaded for free at https://www.mekongtourism.org/experience-mekong-showcases/

For more information about the Experience Mekong Collection and its members, please visit www.experiencemekongcollection.com. To find out more information about our programs, please download our Mekong Tourism program booklet at http://bit.ly/MekongTourism2020 and contact us via www.MekongTourism.org.

Shortlisted Experience Mekong Collection Members

Category     Business Name     City Country

Cambodia
Do     Bambu Stage     Siem Reap Cambodia
Do     Phare Ponleu Selpak     Battambang Cambodia
Shop     Genevieve’s Fair Trade Village     Siem Reap Cambodia
Shop     Coco Khmer     Phnom Penh Cambodia
Stay     Farmhouse Smiling Gecko     Kampong Chhnang Cambodia
Stay     Mulberry Boutique Hotel     Siem Reap Cambodia
Taste     Sala Baï     Siem Reap Cambodia
Taste     The Lonely Tree Café     Battambang Cambodia
Tour / Cruise     Wildlife Alliance Release Station     Koh Kong Cambodia
Tour / Cruise     Artisans Angkor     Siem Reap Cambodia
Do     Cambodia Living Arts     Phnom Penh Cambodia
Tour / Cruise     Ayana Journeys     Siem Reap Cambodia

China

Do     Lanxu Eco-Culture Development Center     Dali, Yunnan China
Do     Yunnan Mountain Heritage Foundation     Shangri La, Yunnan China
Do     Leye-Fengshan Geopark     Guangxi China
Stay     The Wenhai Ecolodge     Dali, Yunnan China
Stay     Horsepen 46     Dali, Yunnan China
Stay     Vinetree Gaoligong Tented Resort     Gaoligong, Yunnan China
Stay     Yangshuo Village Inn     Yangshou, Guangxi China
Taste     Pear Blossom Organic     Dali, Yunnan China
Taste     Nixi Black Pottery Coffee     Shangri La, Yunnan China
Tour / Cruise     Xintou Ecotourism     Lijiang, Yunnan China
Stay     Shaxi Old Theatre Inn     Dali, Yunnan China
Stay     The Bivou     Lijiang, Yunnan China

Lao PDR

Do     TAEC     Luang Prabang Lao PDR
Do     Nahm Dong Park     Luang Prabang Lao PDR
Do     Heuan Chan Heritage House     Luang Prabang Lao PDR
Shop     Passa Paa     Luang Prabang Lao PDR
Shop     Saoban Crafts     Vientiane Lao PDR
Stay     Sinouk Coffee Resort     Champasak Lao PDR
Stay     Namkhan Ecolodge     Luang Prabang Lao PDR
Stay     Kingfisher Ecolodge     Champasak Lao PDR
Taste     Saffron Coffee     Luang Prabang Lao PDR
Taste     Tamarind Café     Luang Prabang Lao PDR
Tour / Cruise     The Vat Phou Mekong Cruise     Pakse Lao PDR
Do     Nam Et-Phou Louey National Park Wildlife Tours     Nam Et Lao PDR

Myanmar

Do     The Inle Horse Club     Shan State Myanmar
Do     Green Hill Valley Elephant Camp     Shan State Myanmar
Shop     Plan Bee     Pinyada Myanmar
Shop     Aidii Collections     Chin State Myanmar
Stay     Arakan Nature Lodge     Rakhine State Myanmar
Stay     Lalay Lodge     Ngapali Beach Myanmar
Taste     Yuwaddy Center     Yangon Myanmar
Taste     Veranda Youth Community Cafe     Hpa An Myanmar
Tour / Cruise     Myanmar Adventure Outfitters     Lashio Myanmar
Tour / Cruise     Uncharted Horizons     Yangon Myanmar
Taste     Sanon Restaurant     Bagan Myanmar
Tour / Cruise     Sampan Travel     Yangon Myanmar

Thailand

Do     Elephant Poopoopaper Park     Chiang Mai Thailand
Shop     Thai Tribal Craft     Chiang Mai Thailand
Shop     SRANN     Phrae Thailand
Stay     Phu Chai Sai Mountain Resort     Chiang Rai Thailand
Stay     The Tongsai Bay     Koh Samui Thailand
Taste     Better Moon Café     Bangkok Thailand
Taste     Theera Bake Room     Bangkok Thailand
Taste     The Passport Restaurant     Tak Thailand
Tour / Cruise     SiamRise Travel     Bangkok Thailand
Tour / Cruise     Bangkok Vanguards     Bangkok Thailand
Do     Anurak Lodge     Surat Thani Thailand
Do     Andaman Discoveries     Pang Nga Thailand

Vietnam

Do     Omamori Spa     Ha Noi Viet Nam
Do     Zó Project     Ha Noi Viet Nam
Shop     Mekong Quilts     Ho Chi Minh City Viet Nam
Shop     Craft Link     Ha Noi Viet Nam
Shop     Indigo Cat     Sapa Viet Nam
Stay     Mekong Rustic     Can Tho Viet Nam
Stay     Ngoc Son Ngo Luong Nature Reserve     Hoa Binh Viet Nam
Stay     Phong Nha Farmstay     Quang Binh Viet Nam
Taste     Oriberry     Ha Noi Viet Nam
Tour / Cruise     Sapa Sisters Trekking     Sapa Viet Nam
Shop     Tohe     Ha Noi Viet Nam
Stay Mr. Linh’s Homestay Bac Kan Viet Nam

About the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office:

The Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO), located in Bangkok, was set up with funding from the governments of the six Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS) countries – Cambodia, the People’s Republic of China, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Viet Nam. The MTCO, which operates on annual financial contributions from each GMS country, acts as the secretariat for the GMS Tourism Working Group, comprising of senior officials of the six GMS countries’ National Tourism Organizations, to coordinate and facilitate sustainable tourism development of the GMS, and promotion of the Mekong region as a single travel and tourism destination, in collaboration with the public and private sectors. The MTCO manages its award-winning MekongTourism.org digital platform as a one-stop platform to promote responsible and sustainable tourism in the region, as well as the annual Mekong Tourism Forum, whose hosting is rotated among GMS countries.

Please visit www.MekongTourism.org for more information.

About Destination Mekong:

Destination Mekong was created in 2017 to promote the Mekong region, comprising of Cambodia, PR China (Provinces of Guangxi and Yunnan), Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam as a single tourism destination to stimulate responsible and sustainable development and investment, and drive inclusive growth. Endorsed by the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office and aligned with the mandate of the regional collaborative tourism framework of the six-member governments of the Greater Mekong Sub-region, Destination Mekong executes targeted projects and initiatives, including Mekong Moments, Mekong Mini Movie Festival, Mekong Innovations in Sustainable Tourism (MIST), Experience Mekong Collection, Mekong Heroes, and Mekong Trends, with feedback from the Mekong Tourism Advisory Group (MeTAG) and via public-private partnership investment structure, led by UNWTO Affiliate Member Chameleon Strategies.

Please visit www.DestinationMekong.com for more information.

Photo credit: Couple cycling around Angkor temple, Siem Reap, Cambodia. (Fabio Lamanna/shutterstock.com)
Tags: 2021 Experience Mekong Showcases, Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), MTCO initiatives, Responsible Tourism, sustainable tourism

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Website: www.DestinationMekong.com

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

Discover Aboriginal Experiences Collective Welcomes Four New Members

Borrgoron Coast to Creek Tours and Kingfisher Tours in Western Australia, and Bundyi Cultural Tours and Wajaana Yaam Adventure Tours in New South Wales, have joined Discover Aboriginal Experiences – a collective of quality, authentic Aboriginal guided tourism offerings.

In Western Australia's ruggedly beautiful Dampier Peninsula, Bardi man Terry Hunter of Borrgoron Coast to Creek Tours shares his people's ancient wisdom on a walking tour in Traditional Lands. Also based in the Kimberley, Kingfisher Tours hosts luxurious tours by air, land and sea led by passionate Custodian guides.

In New South Wales, Bundyi Cultural Tours takes guests deep into the Wagga Wagga region with Wiradjuri man Mark Saddler, who shares his cultural heritage with guests on walking, coach and tours. Further north, on the Coffs Coast, Wajaana Yaam Adventure Tours takes visitors on an interpretive stand-up paddleboarding adventure through idyllic local waterways, with bush tucker tasting along the way.

The Discover Aboriginal Experiences collective is part of Tourism Australia's Signature Experiences of Australiaprogram that promotes outstanding tourism experiences within a variety of special categories. This collection showcases a diversity of experiences delivered by the world's oldest living culture, creating memorable trips for adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, foodies and nature lovers, ranging from exploring hidden galleries of ancient rock art to catching your own mud crab feast, quad biking through Traditional Lands, to bedding down at wilderness lodges surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery.

Tourism Australia Managing Director Phillipa Harrison said “We are excited to be welcoming four new additions to the Discover Aboriginal Experiences collective, bringing the membership to 45 businesses offering more than 185 Aboriginal guided experiences – all of them truly unique in the stories they have to share. The opportunity to connect with the oldest living culture on Earth through our incredible Aboriginal guides across the country offers travellers an authentic connection with Australia as a place, through the stories of its people and their special connection to the land.”

Each member of this collection is considered a world-class leader in Aboriginal tourism, representing local Aboriginal culture with integrity and authenticity. Please see the following pages for further details on the four new additions to the collective.

Find out more about the 'Discover Aboriginal Experiences' collective at www.australia.com/aboriginal

Find out more about the 'Signature Experiences of Australia' program at www.tourism.australia.com/signature.

A collection of royalty free Aboriginal tourism images and videos are available at www.images.australia.com and www.video.australia.com.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

NEW ADDITIONS FOR BELISI WELLBEING & EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

A new purpose-built, accessible wellbeing and community hub and regular yoga and art classes are among the new additions to Belisi Wellbeing and Equestrian Centre. 

The $400,000 hub, made from recycled shipping containers, has fully accessible ramps, bathroom and doorways as well as a kitchen, viewing box, new sand arena, holding yards and a wash bay. 

Belisi Owner Jenni Riethmuller said the new hub was a wonderful and unique community asset. 

“Our focus at Belisi is two-fold, to deliver equine-assisted wellbeing therapy and wellbeing programs - both riding and non-riding - to a range of people, especially those with physical or mental challenges. 

We work with schools, disability or rehabilitation centres and aged-care.” Debuting in the new hub in 2021 are also yoga and art classes. 

“With two bedrooms, there’s room for the whole family and plenty of on-farm activities to entertain everyone." Find out more at www.belisi.com.au.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Destination NSW
https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/

Banyan Tree Group enters new forays with 8 global destinations In 2021

Moving into 2021, hospitality company Banyan Tree Group is set to continue with its global expansion. Founded on the core values of wellbeing and sustainability, the Group’s multi-branded ecosystem of 5 brands offers exceptional design-led experiences for travellers. 

Strengthening its positioning amidst Covid, it has continued to receive industry recognitions built upon the central value propositions of its brands and has signed 20 hotel management agreements in 2020, adding to its pipeline of 35 properties opening over the next 3 years.

Embarking on a year of milestones, the Group will be entering new forays in 3 regions across 8 destinations globally. In addition to openings in Asia (Cambodia, Indonesia and China), the Group will fly its first flags in the Middle East (Qatar), Europe (Greece) and Africa (Mozambique).

March 2021: Asia (China) – Dhawa Quzhou

Come March 2021, Banyan Tree Group will be the first international hotel brand to develop an integrated resort comprising Banyan Tree, Angsana and Dhawa in Quzhou of Zhejiang Province – the scholarly hometown of Chinese philosopher Confucius in Southern China. Kick-starting operations, Dhawa Quzhou will open to welcome design-savvy travellers who seek distinctive experiences in stylish, unique destinations. Featuring views of Qu River and the famous Deer Park Peninsula, the 191-key hotel fuses casual and contemporary full-service hotel concept, comfort and imaginative design. Themed around rivers and mountains, it incorporates bold colours of brown and purple for its communal space Nest, Nook restaurant, Lobby Lounge and rooftop Deer Heights Bar.

April 2021: Europe (Greece) – Angsana Corfu

Following next, in April 2021, Banyan Tree Group will plant its first flagship property in Europe – Angsana Corfu in Greece. Located south of Corfu Town and close to the picturesque Benitses village, the resort is perched on a hill overlooking the Ionian Sea. Steeped in culture, it is near the UNESCO World Heritage site of Corfu Old Town, Old and New Fortresses and Achilleion Palace. The 196-key resort includes contemporary pool villas with sea or countryside views, a spa, a yoga deck and water sports.

May 2021: Asia (Indonesia) – Angsana Saranam, Bali

Angsana Saranam, Bali and the Group’s upcoming new brand extension Banyan Tree Escape are set to open in Indonesia. This May, Angsana Saranam, Bali is a 82-key wellbeing resort that will highlight Angsana’s unique wellbeing proposition of cultivating joy and memorable connections for families and wellness travellers. It will feature an Angsana Spa and wellbeing facilities with a multifunctional Activity Centre, Movement Space and Vitality Pool for hydrotherapy and aqua activities. An organic farm will also feature harvest-to-dish activities.

July 2021: Asia (Indonesia) – Banyan Tree Escape

With the post-Covid quest for increased emphasis on wellbeing and sustainability, along with pent-up demand for travel in awe-inspiring locations, consumers will seek a deeper dive into experiences for transformation within and without. Banyan Tree Escape, the Group’s new brand extension, is the culmination of decades of hospitality experience. The Group’s first Banyan Tree Escape will debut in the heart of Ubud, Bali, featuring its signature “no walls, no doors” experience concept. Distinct indoor-outdoor living offers a sanctuary for urban detox, self-introspection and emotional awareness in privacy. Reinventing the basics of food, sleep and in-resort interaction, the brand aims to bring travellers on a rewilding renewal through immersion in nature.

Q3 2021: Asia (China) – Banyan Tree Nanjing Garden Expo

In autumn, Banyan Tree Nanjing Garden Expo, the first Banyan Tree resort in Tangshan of Jiangsu province, China, will open in Q3 2021. Known for its hot springs and as a part of Nanjing – the 2500-year capital of six dynasties, the resort is built in a mine valley, hidden by a cascading cliff-top waterfall. Positioned to be a leading hot spring and wellbeing sanctuary, it will feature 115 rooms with scenic valley and cliff views each with a hot spring pool, an award-winning Banyan Tree Spa, an indoor swimming pool with panoramic views and three dining venues that support local ingredients. In addition, it comprises modern meeting and wedding facilities for social events.

Q4 2021: Middle East (Qatar) – Banyan Tree Doha At La Cigale Mushaireb

In Q4 2021, the Group will launch its first urban luxury resort in Qatar in the Middle East – Banyan Tree Doha At La Cigale Mushaireb. It is also the first property developed under the Banyan Tree-Accor strategic partnership. Located in the heart of Mushaireb, the resort sits within the Doha Oasis project, a premier city destination comprising a luxury department store, an indoor experiential theme park and a cineplex. The 341-key property is in close proximity to the capital’s commercial district and cultural attractions, such as the Museum of Islamic Art and Souq Waqif “standing market”. It will feature the signature Banyan Tree Spa with a Rainforest hydrotherapy facility, Saffron fine-dining Thai restaurant and Vertigo, a 28-storey rooftop bar overlooking Doha’s panoramic city skyline.

October 2021: Asia (Cambodia) – Angsana Siem Reap

Opening in October 2021 and inspired by the rich culture of the ancient Khmer Empire, Angsana Siem Reap, Cambodia will feature tropical gardens, reflective ponds and contemporary design blending classic Khmer style. The resort offers 158 keys including 19 villas with private pools, innovative restaurant concepts, and modern event spaces. A 10-minute drive from Siem Reap International Airport, it is situated near to Cambodia Cultural Villa and the UNESCO World Heritage Centre including Angkor Wat, an important archaeological site in Southeast Asia.

December 2021: Africa (Mozambique) – Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira

An adventurous new destination and the Group’s very first flag in the Africa continent, Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira in Mozambique (situated on the private Island of Ilha Caldeira), is set to open in December 2021. Amidst pristine beach and reefs, the luxury resort will feature 40 private pool villas with views of the Indian Ocean, signature Thai restaurant Saffron and Banyan Tree Spa. Located 10km off the mainland, the island is part of Primeiras and Segundas Archipelago, Africa’s largest marine reserve – home to Mozambique’s intact living corals.

Mr Ho Kwon Ping, Executive Chairman of Banyan Tree Holdings, said: “Our robust momentum in business development and pipeline of new openings this year will continue to accelerate Banyan Tree Group's international presence as we chart and connect guests to new awe-inspiring destinations. As a global independent hospitality company, we remain positive and resilient. As an evolving multi-branded ecosystem with Wellbeing and Sustainability at our core, we set our eyes on the global front to strategically grow our brands to global reach and range, amidst the extended travel recovery."

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Go for a thrilling adventure in the land of volcanoes in Japan!

If you’re looking for a sensational destination to experience nature, there’s none other than Mt. Aso – an active smouldering volcano.

You can go cycling, horse riding or hiking across the volcanic plains, or even take to the skies on paragliding or helicopter tours to see its craters and calderas from above. 

Round off your adventures with some local specialties, and end the night by counting the stars.
https://www.japan.travel/experiences-in-japan/en/779/
#Nature #JNTOpartner

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)
Facebook Visit Japan Now https://www.facebook.com/visitjapan2010

Facebook: Australia https://www.facebook.com/VisitJapanAU/

Website: https://www.japan.travel/en/

Website: https://www.japan.go.jp/japan/visit/

A Brief Update of Hotel & Culinary News Around Arizona February 2021

Ambiente announces award winning head chef

Ambiente, a Landscape Hotel in Sedona, opening fall 2021, announced that it has tapped renowned chef Lisa Dahl to lead the vision for the hotel's culinary offering. Alchemy will be Ambiente's signature restaurant within a custom Airstream, which has been transformed and reimagined into a culinary destination situated poolside at the heart of the three-acre property. Alchemy is exclusive to hotel guests only and will serve breakfast and lunch daily with limited after-hours offerings. Dahl's creativity will run wild in her bold, yet approachable take on healthy, indulgent cuisine. Standouts of the menu are likely to include A Bird in the Nest, spicy sofrita quinoa with a fried farm egg center; Teriyaki Roasted Beet Burger with herbed, blistered goat cheese; Ahi Tuna Poke Soft Tacos with avocado-wasabi crema; Quesadilla Supremo filled with grilled rosemary chicken, roasted tomato, spicy jack cheese, and chevra; Lentil Walnut Fritters with cilantro mint pesto and a variety of Dahl's signature soups and salads.

Mii Amo Spa Resort announces renovations and expansion

Mii Amo Spa Resort, the award-winning destination spa located in Boynton Canyon, Sedona, plans for an extensive renovation and expansion. The last guests departed on January 3, 2021 and a revitalized Mii amo will be unveiled in the spring of 2022. Upon reopening, Mii amo will debut a collection of elevated experiences, including some designed to foster a deeper connection to the Native American and energetic perspectives of the region. A new indoor-outdoor restaurant will offer innovative culinary and nutrition programming. In addition to renovating the existing 16 casita rooms, new casita rooms and suites will be added. The casitas are arranged around private courtyards that create an intimate spa experience. During the time Mii amo is physically unavailable, guests are encouraged to stay connected through “Pause & Journey” programming. New content and virtual events will be featured through email newsletters, social media and the website.

James Beard Award Nominees collaborate on new restaurant in Tucson

James Beard Award Nominees, Carlotta Flores of El Charro restaurants and Don Guerra of Barrio Bread, opened a new restaurant, Barrio Charro, in Tucson. Designed for the growing demand of takeout and delivery-friendly food, Barrio Charro combines recipes from several of the Si Charro brands, such as the Carne Asada from Charro Steak and the Mesquite Grilled Salmon from Charrovida, with Guerra's acclaimed breads. Additionally, Barrio Charro will feature current menu trends like avocado toasts, bruschettas, and their own unique versions of tortas. The team also has a special Barrio rendition of a “Tlayuda” which is something like a Mexican pizza. Using a select blend of flours designed by Guerra, this new delight is more portable and accessible than a cheese crisp you might find at local El Charro Cafés.

Work From Here, Learn From Here package at Amara Resort and Spa

Amara Resort and Spa in Sedona introduces the program, Work From Here, Learn From Here. The new program is included within the resort fee and provides guests with an ideal space for a workation. The 750 square-foot-space is set up like a private classroom or office and is complete with classroom-style seating, whiteboards, a speakerphone, a printing station, shelves stocked with school supplies and a screen or projector is available upon request. Guests also have access to an on-call executive assistant or teacher's aide who can assist with day-to-day tasks like sending faxes, shipping assignments and setting up audio and video connections while on-site tutors or nannies can be reserved two weeks in advance for $50 per hour. Amara has also tapped locally-owned concierge service RemoteWell, to curate on and off-site experiences for guests looking to prioritize their health and wellness while working remotely. Daily rates start at $188, the resort fee is $33 plus tax and also includes valet parking, Wi-Fi, and unlimited local and toll-free calls.
Amara Resort and Spa's response to COVID-19.

JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa new Work From Home Package

JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa in Scottsdale announced new Work From Home Package, Distanced in the Desert. Offering guests work-from-home flexibility and e-learning in a tucked-away office or study space in a private, casita-style room with your own HVAC system, mobile key for contactless entry, and a $100 resort credit to be used at the resort's restaurants currently open, The Spa, or Camelback Golf Club.
JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa's response to COVID-19.

Winter PLAYcation package at JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa

JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa announced the Winter PLAYcation package. From now through February 27, 2021, and rates beginning at $279 per night, JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort's Winter PLAYcation package includes overnight accommodations, a $100 daily resort credit, unlimited golf for up to 4 guests, 50% off a second room reservation, and with any package booked Monday through Thursday, guests will enjoy an additional 50% savings on cabanas, luxury poolside suites and VIP seating reservations at Griffin Bay – the resort's elevated poolside experience. The package is available seven days a week. The resort also offers bicycles to explore the grounds and surrounding neighborhoods and is within close proximity of multiple hiking and biking trails.

JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa's response to COVID-19.

Perrier-Jouet Amenity add-on and Spa Special at JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa

JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa is offering a special staycation add on, Perrier-Jouet Amenity, from Friday, February 12th - Sunday, February 14th. Complete with a bottle of Perrier-JouetBrut Champagne, a dessert “Charcuterie” Board garnished with bite-sized desserts, macaroons, truffles, cookies and chocolate covered strawberries, red roses and a Lush 'Sleepy' Shower Bomb (priced at $200 +tax & $10 delivery charge). Couples can retreat to The Spa at Camelback Inn for a relaxing treatment from the following options. Book any three Honeybee services and receive a 15 percent discount off of the treatment price, 15 percent off of all spa retail and a complimentary glass of champagne or mimosa, available from February 4-28, 2021.
JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa's response to COVID-19

Largest restaurant in Prescott now open

Vivili Hospitality Group announced a new restaurant concept in the heart of downtown Prescott called The County Seat, a massive local gathering place, mercantile and restaurant. The expansive 6,500 square-foot restaurant offers fast-casual service within a coffeehouse-like setting complete with a wraparound bar, lounge seating, custom communal dining tables and a curated mercantile area of hand-sourced retail offerings. Designed to bring the outdoors in, large windows, skylights and bright walls blend harmoniously with trellises overflowing with greenery, Mid-Century inspired décor, and oversized pendant lighting. Throughout the day, the restaurant will be abuzz as a state-of-the-art espresso machine sunken into the countertop will be churning out local, organic roasts by Sedona roastery, Free Form, while guests order items like a curry chicken salad sandwich with Madras curry chicken, diced apple, golden raisins, micro cilantro, cucumber, roasted red pepper, and shaved red onions, on fresh Wildflower bread; Open-Faced Pesto Tuna Sandwich with pesto mayo, sliced tomato, micro green and provolone; and Strawberry & Kale Salad with kale and mixed greens, roasted sunflower seeds, bell peppers, cucumber, champagne vinaigrette.

COVID-19 Updates in Arizona

For visitor guidance due to COVID-19 such as mask-wearing, a list of tourism-related reopenings or closures, and a link to public health guidelines, click here: https://www.visitarizona.com/covid-19/. Some attractions are open year-round and some are open seasonally or move to seasonal hours. To ensure the places you want to see are open on your travel dates, please check their website for hours of operation.

Connect

Website: www.VisitArizona.com

Official State Travelers Guide: http://digital.milespartnership.com/view/arizona-official-travel-guide/arizona-official-state-travel-guide/arizona-2020-21

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au