GBTA Board President Mark Cuschieri shares his insights on the changing and exciting world of business travel and its sustainability goals.

The Board of Directors, GBTA, share their views in terms of topics that are important for the members, the industry, and the future course of action for business travel. Mark Cuschieri, is the guest author in today’s feature, GBTA Board President.

He said that as they get on board on a New Year, they are filled with a sense of confidence and enthusiasm for what lies before them. The world of business travel is evolving in a constant manner, however, for their sector, there has never been a good time like this.

The business travel marketplace of the world is currently in a condition of constant alteration, molded by technological progressions, changing consumer preferences, and international events worldwide. He added that welcoming this change is not just a need; it is a chance when it comes to innovation and expansion. They have the power to shape the future of their industry as members of GBTA via collaboration, community and advocacy.For 2024, environmental sustainability will carry on to be one of the main topics. He is proud of the milestones that they have attained last year through the GBTA Foundation, helping their industry as well as their members. Their main target is to persevere on backing climate action in business travel in 2024.

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Positioned for remarkable growth in 2024, Kerala Tourism has unveiled a series of innovative products, including Heli-Tourism, in the national capital. Branded as ‘Sky Escapes,’ this groundbreaking heli-tourism project is set to redefine travel in the state, akin to the transformative impact houseboats had three decades ago. Kerala Tourism Director, Shri P B Nooh, announced the ambitious initiative during a press conference at the B2B trade meet, emphasizing its role in attracting both domestic and international tourists.

Kerala has achieved a milestone by becoming the first state in India to establish a comprehensive heli-tourism policy. A dedicated micro-site has been launched to provide details on travel packages offered by helicopter service providers. This strategic move aims to enhance tourist experiences by connecting various destinations in a single trip, establishing the state as a well-connected tourism hotspot.

Director Nooh outlined an aggressive marketing strategy for the new year, emphasizing the campaign “Make up for lost time, pack up for Kerala,” which received the prestigious PATA Gold Award. The focus is on boosting domestic tourism in the state.

In an effort to place Kerala on the global adventure tourism map, the government plans to host four international adventure sporting events this year. Recognizing the 20% expected growth in adventure tourism worldwide by 2032, these events will contribute significantly to both international and domestic tourism.

Highlighting the diverse geographical features of the state, the Director mentioned upcoming adventure tourism events, including the International Paragliding Festival in Vagamon, International Surfing Festival in Varkala, MTB Kerala 2024 mountain biking event in Wayanad, and The Malabar River Festival 2024 in Kozhikode.

Kerala Tourism is also actively promoting the state as an ideal wedding destination, leveraging its natural beauty, picturesque locations, excellent accommodation facilities, and connectivity. The serene backwaters, pristine beaches, and enchanting hill stations make Kerala a captivating choice for couples and honeymooners.

With a record 19.34% growth, Kerala attracted 159.69 lakh visitors from within the country during January-September 2023. This success is attributed to the state’s innovative tourism initiatives, ensuring a safe, hospitable, and all-weather holiday paradise.

The revamped strategy of Kerala Tourism focuses on introducing new destinations, creating innovative tourism circuits, investing in infrastructure, and expanding the Responsible Tourism initiative. Travel trade networking activities and B2B Partnership Meets are planned in major Indian cities to introduce these new products and initiatives to a wider audience.

Director Nooh emphasized that alongside new projects, Kerala’s core assets, such as beaches, hill stations, houseboats, and the backwater segment, will enhance the overall visitor experience. Adventure, wellness, and responsible tourism will be pursued with renewed purpose and vigor.

The post Kerala takes to the skies: Helicopter tourism soars for a spectacular visitor experience appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Positioned for remarkable growth in 2024, Kerala Tourism has unveiled a series of innovative products, including Heli-Tourism, in the national capital. Branded as ‘Sky Escapes,’ this groundbreaking heli-tourism project is set to redefine travel in the state, akin to the transformative impact houseboats had three decades ago. Kerala Tourism Director, Shri P B Nooh, announced the ambitious initiative during a press conference at the B2B trade meet, emphasizing its role in attracting both domestic and international tourists.

Kerala has achieved a milestone by becoming the first state in India to establish a comprehensive heli-tourism policy. A dedicated micro-site has been launched to provide details on travel packages offered by helicopter service providers. This strategic move aims to enhance tourist experiences by connecting various destinations in a single trip, establishing the state as a well-connected tourism hotspot.

Director Nooh outlined an aggressive marketing strategy for the new year, emphasizing the campaign “Make up for lost time, pack up for Kerala,” which received the prestigious PATA Gold Award. The focus is on boosting domestic tourism in the state.

In an effort to place Kerala on the global adventure tourism map, the government plans to host four international adventure sporting events this year. Recognizing the 20% expected growth in adventure tourism worldwide by 2032, these events will contribute significantly to both international and domestic tourism.

Highlighting the diverse geographical features of the state, the Director mentioned upcoming adventure tourism events, including the International Paragliding Festival in Vagamon, International Surfing Festival in Varkala, MTB Kerala 2024 mountain biking event in Wayanad, and The Malabar River Festival 2024 in Kozhikode.

Kerala Tourism is also actively promoting the state as an ideal wedding destination, leveraging its natural beauty, picturesque locations, excellent accommodation facilities, and connectivity. The serene backwaters, pristine beaches, and enchanting hill stations make Kerala a captivating choice for couples and honeymooners.

With a record 19.34% growth, Kerala attracted 159.69 lakh visitors from within the country during January-September 2023. This success is attributed to the state’s innovative tourism initiatives, ensuring a safe, hospitable, and all-weather holiday paradise.

The revamped strategy of Kerala Tourism focuses on introducing new destinations, creating innovative tourism circuits, investing in infrastructure, and expanding the Responsible Tourism initiative. Travel trade networking activities and B2B Partnership Meets are planned in major Indian cities to introduce these new products and initiatives to a wider audience.

Director Nooh emphasized that alongside new projects, Kerala’s core assets, such as beaches, hill stations, houseboats, and the backwater segment, will enhance the overall visitor experience. Adventure, wellness, and responsible tourism will be pursued with renewed purpose and vigor.

The post Kerala takes to the skies: Helicopter tourism soars for a spectacular visitor experience appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

PCEB thrillingly unveils the probable 7th edition of the Penang Roadshow to India 2024.

It is spanning across four diverse cities from 15 to 22 January.

The cities are Mumbai (15 January), New Delhi (17 January), Chennai (19 January), and Kochi (22 January).

This expansive roadshow provides a unique opportunity for Indian travel enthusiasts and industry professionals to immerse themselves in the offerings of Penang.

It is a destination popular for its unique blend of cultural richness and contemporary allure.

The ‘Penang Odyssey’ campaign is a strategic initiative by Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB).

The campaign focuses on elevating Penang as a favourite destination for both business meetings and leisure escapades in the Indian market.

With a dual focus on business and leisure, the campaign strives to foster mutually beneficial relationships with India’s travel agents.

The Penang Odyssey campaign is poised to explore new avenues to captivate the Indian market, recognizing its significance as a key market for Penang.

Anticipate a gathering of approximately 200 buyers from each city, creating a dynamic platform for networking, collaboration, and business expansion.

The Penang Odyssey aims to showcase Penang’s diverse offerings, forging connections that transcend borders and unveiling the immense potential for collaboration between Penang and the Indian travel industry.

In 2023, Penang hosted around 600 events with 160,000 delegates, signaling a robust event calendar with an estimated economic impact (EEI) of RM1 billion.

This accomplishment sends a resounding message of confidence, highlighting Penang’s readiness and capability to host large-scale, world-class events, reinforcing its position as a premier destination for business and leisure.

Malaysia’s commitment to facilitating seamless travel experiences is underscored by the recent nationwide introduction of a visa-free regime, allowing stays of up to 30 days starting from 1 December 2023 to 31 December 2024.

This strategic move enhances accessibility for Indian visitors and presents a significant opportunity to further strengthen direct airline connectivity with India.

Recognizing the growing demand and interest from the Indian market, Penang is actively working to establish additional direct flights.

It is providing more convenient options for those looking to explore the vibrant charm of Penang embark on a journey of possibilities at the 7th edition of the Penang Roadshow.

It is to experience the dynamic convergence of culture, business, and leisure, positioning Penang as the prime destination for your next extraordinary adventure.

The post PCEB presents 7th edition of Penang Roadshow to India 2024 appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

PCEB thrillingly unveils the probable 7th edition of the Penang Roadshow to India 2024.

It is spanning across four diverse cities from 15 to 22 January.

The cities are Mumbai (15 January), New Delhi (17 January), Chennai (19 January), and Kochi (22 January).

This expansive roadshow provides a unique opportunity for Indian travel enthusiasts and industry professionals to immerse themselves in the offerings of Penang.

It is a destination popular for its unique blend of cultural richness and contemporary allure.

The ‘Penang Odyssey’ campaign is a strategic initiative by Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB).

The campaign focuses on elevating Penang as a favourite destination for both business meetings and leisure escapades in the Indian market.

With a dual focus on business and leisure, the campaign strives to foster mutually beneficial relationships with India’s travel agents.

The Penang Odyssey campaign is poised to explore new avenues to captivate the Indian market, recognizing its significance as a key market for Penang.

Anticipate a gathering of approximately 200 buyers from each city, creating a dynamic platform for networking, collaboration, and business expansion.

The Penang Odyssey aims to showcase Penang’s diverse offerings, forging connections that transcend borders and unveiling the immense potential for collaboration between Penang and the Indian travel industry.

In 2023, Penang hosted around 600 events with 160,000 delegates, signaling a robust event calendar with an estimated economic impact (EEI) of RM1 billion.

This accomplishment sends a resounding message of confidence, highlighting Penang’s readiness and capability to host large-scale, world-class events, reinforcing its position as a premier destination for business and leisure.

Malaysia’s commitment to facilitating seamless travel experiences is underscored by the recent nationwide introduction of a visa-free regime, allowing stays of up to 30 days starting from 1 December 2023 to 31 December 2024.

This strategic move enhances accessibility for Indian visitors and presents a significant opportunity to further strengthen direct airline connectivity with India.

Recognizing the growing demand and interest from the Indian market, Penang is actively working to establish additional direct flights.

It is providing more convenient options for those looking to explore the vibrant charm of Penang embark on a journey of possibilities at the 7th edition of the Penang Roadshow.

It is to experience the dynamic convergence of culture, business, and leisure, positioning Penang as the prime destination for your next extraordinary adventure.

The post PCEB presents 7th edition of Penang Roadshow to India 2024 appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Thai Digital Platform Social Enterprise Co., Ltd. have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to heighten awareness of TAGTHAi, the comprehensive Thailand application, positioning it as the essential ‘Super Aggregator Platform’ for both local and international tourists exploring the country.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said “TAT recognises the potential of TAGTHAi as a ‘Super Aggregator Platform’ that caters to various types of travellers and makes travel in Thailand simple and convenient. TAGTHAi reflects our promotions of the Thai soft-power elements and a multitude of meaningful travel experiences in Thailand. The MOU corresponds with the TAT’s 2024 direction to revitalise Thai tourism towards high value and sustainable growth.”

The MOU underscores Thailand’s national development plan, “Thailand 4.0,” which aims to bolster the integration of technology and public-private data to enhance the country’s competitiveness and tourism sector. The TAGTHAi travel app is designated as a platform for local businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, to showcase and promote their products and services.

Within the MOU framework, TAT will actively promote TAGTHAi through its marketing initiatives and publicity channels. Additionally, TAT will share valuable information about popular and upcoming tourist attractions and tour routes. In return, TAGTHAi will provide data intelligence on tourists’ travel preferences in Thailand, derived from the analysis of user activity. This collaboration aims to facilitate effective data-driven connections between TAT’s online platforms and TAGTHAi.

Mr. Kalin Sarasin, Chairman of the Management Committee of Thai Digital Platform Social Enterprise Co., Ltd., said “Digital technology plays a pivotal role in the tourism industry, and as the must-have Thailand travel application, TAGTHAi wants to be a part in helping to maintain Thailand’s position as a world-class tourism destination. Through the partnership with TAT, the TAGTHAi app will be further developed to become the most comprehensive Super Aggregator Platform for tourists to use for traveling in Thailand.”

The post TAT and TAGTHAi ink MoU to boost Thailand tourism appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Thai Digital Platform Social Enterprise Co., Ltd. have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to heighten awareness of TAGTHAi, the comprehensive Thailand application, positioning it as the essential ‘Super Aggregator Platform’ for both local and international tourists exploring the country.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said “TAT recognises the potential of TAGTHAi as a ‘Super Aggregator Platform’ that caters to various types of travellers and makes travel in Thailand simple and convenient. TAGTHAi reflects our promotions of the Thai soft-power elements and a multitude of meaningful travel experiences in Thailand. The MOU corresponds with the TAT’s 2024 direction to revitalise Thai tourism towards high value and sustainable growth.”

The MOU underscores Thailand’s national development plan, “Thailand 4.0,” which aims to bolster the integration of technology and public-private data to enhance the country’s competitiveness and tourism sector. The TAGTHAi travel app is designated as a platform for local businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, to showcase and promote their products and services.

Within the MOU framework, TAT will actively promote TAGTHAi through its marketing initiatives and publicity channels. Additionally, TAT will share valuable information about popular and upcoming tourist attractions and tour routes. In return, TAGTHAi will provide data intelligence on tourists’ travel preferences in Thailand, derived from the analysis of user activity. This collaboration aims to facilitate effective data-driven connections between TAT’s online platforms and TAGTHAi.

Mr. Kalin Sarasin, Chairman of the Management Committee of Thai Digital Platform Social Enterprise Co., Ltd., said “Digital technology plays a pivotal role in the tourism industry, and as the must-have Thailand travel application, TAGTHAi wants to be a part in helping to maintain Thailand’s position as a world-class tourism destination. Through the partnership with TAT, the TAGTHAi app will be further developed to become the most comprehensive Super Aggregator Platform for tourists to use for traveling in Thailand.”

The post TAT and TAGTHAi ink MoU to boost Thailand tourism appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

PT JCB International Indonesia, a subsidiary of JCB International Co., Ltd. (JCB), and Sunway Healthcare Group, a prominent integrated private healthcare entity in Malaysia, have joined forces to promote medical tourism to Malaysia. This collaboration aims to introduce the healthcare services of Sunway Healthcare Group to over 156 million JCB cardmembers worldwide.

As part of this partnership, Sunway Medical Centre (SMC), a leading private quaternary hospital under the Sunway Healthcare Group in Sunway City, Kuala Lumpur, is set to provide exclusive wellness packages and additional services to JCB cardmembers. SMC boasts a comprehensive range of medical and surgical solutions, featuring 28 centers, approximately 700 beds, around 500 consultation suites, and a team of over 300 specialists covering 60 medical specialties.

In addition, Sunway Sanctuary, a senior living residence within the Sunway Healthcare Group, will extend preferential room rates and amenities to JCB cardmembers. Comprising 235 service suites, Sunway Sanctuary offers accommodation, full board nourishing meals, curated social and recreational activities, as well as wellness services like massage, traditional Chinese medicine, physiotherapy, and a heated saltwater pool. The residence promises “an elegant living experience that emulates the retirement village communities in Japan and Australia.”

Hiroko Michishita, Managing Director of JCB International Asia Pacific overseeing Singapore and Malaysia, facilitated the agreement and expressed, “JCB cardmembers globally will find the facilities and services at SMC highly compelling. Sunway City, in addition to SMC, offers outstanding malls, entertainment, a theme park, and hotel experiences. Our cardmembers will benefit from JCB’s convenient payment services not only in Sunway City but throughout Malaysia, supported by numerous special offers at over 100 JCB merchant stores.”

Takumi Takahashi, President Director of PT JCB International Indonesia, highlighted the importance of Malaysia for JCB cardmembers in Indonesia, citing leisure, retail, and healthcare as key categories driving growth. He praised the collaboration with Sunway Healthcare Group, including SMC, as an excellent solution catering to the diverse needs of JCB Indonesia cardmembers for premium wellness services.

Dr. Khoo Chow Huat, Managing Director (Hospital and Healthcare Operations) of Sunway Healthcare Group, emphasized the significance of the collaboration during the Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony with JCB. He stated, “As a leading quaternary hospital in Malaysia, we are committed to providing best-in-class care supported by internationally trained specialists and cutting-edge technology. This strategic collaboration is mutually beneficial, with Sunway Healthcare Group delivering holistic care and a nurturing environment, while JCB enhances its customer services through this partnership.”

Faith Tang, Assistant Director, International Business Development at Sunway Medical Centre, explained that many Indonesian patients seek their services for screening, second opinions, and treatment due to the trust factor. Through their dedicated International Patient Centre (IPC), they aim to further enhance the partnership by offering seamless and end-to-end care to international patients.

The post JCB and Sunway healthcare join forces for medical tourism in Malaysia appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

PT JCB International Indonesia, a subsidiary of JCB International Co., Ltd. (JCB), and Sunway Healthcare Group, a prominent integrated private healthcare entity in Malaysia, have joined forces to promote medical tourism to Malaysia. This collaboration aims to introduce the healthcare services of Sunway Healthcare Group to over 156 million JCB cardmembers worldwide.

As part of this partnership, Sunway Medical Centre (SMC), a leading private quaternary hospital under the Sunway Healthcare Group in Sunway City, Kuala Lumpur, is set to provide exclusive wellness packages and additional services to JCB cardmembers. SMC boasts a comprehensive range of medical and surgical solutions, featuring 28 centers, approximately 700 beds, around 500 consultation suites, and a team of over 300 specialists covering 60 medical specialties.

In addition, Sunway Sanctuary, a senior living residence within the Sunway Healthcare Group, will extend preferential room rates and amenities to JCB cardmembers. Comprising 235 service suites, Sunway Sanctuary offers accommodation, full board nourishing meals, curated social and recreational activities, as well as wellness services like massage, traditional Chinese medicine, physiotherapy, and a heated saltwater pool. The residence promises “an elegant living experience that emulates the retirement village communities in Japan and Australia.”

Hiroko Michishita, Managing Director of JCB International Asia Pacific overseeing Singapore and Malaysia, facilitated the agreement and expressed, “JCB cardmembers globally will find the facilities and services at SMC highly compelling. Sunway City, in addition to SMC, offers outstanding malls, entertainment, a theme park, and hotel experiences. Our cardmembers will benefit from JCB’s convenient payment services not only in Sunway City but throughout Malaysia, supported by numerous special offers at over 100 JCB merchant stores.”

Takumi Takahashi, President Director of PT JCB International Indonesia, highlighted the importance of Malaysia for JCB cardmembers in Indonesia, citing leisure, retail, and healthcare as key categories driving growth. He praised the collaboration with Sunway Healthcare Group, including SMC, as an excellent solution catering to the diverse needs of JCB Indonesia cardmembers for premium wellness services.

Dr. Khoo Chow Huat, Managing Director (Hospital and Healthcare Operations) of Sunway Healthcare Group, emphasized the significance of the collaboration during the Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony with JCB. He stated, “As a leading quaternary hospital in Malaysia, we are committed to providing best-in-class care supported by internationally trained specialists and cutting-edge technology. This strategic collaboration is mutually beneficial, with Sunway Healthcare Group delivering holistic care and a nurturing environment, while JCB enhances its customer services through this partnership.”

Faith Tang, Assistant Director, International Business Development at Sunway Medical Centre, explained that many Indonesian patients seek their services for screening, second opinions, and treatment due to the trust factor. Through their dedicated International Patient Centre (IPC), they aim to further enhance the partnership by offering seamless and end-to-end care to international patients.

The post JCB and Sunway healthcare join forces for medical tourism in Malaysia appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Nationwide important spots reveal the opulent and diverse tradition of Canada, providing a prospect for Canadians to know more about their diverse culture. Parks Canada’s set-up of countrywide heritage sites signifies the very best that Canada offers, including the antiquities, principles and assistances of native people. 

The first individual management strategy for Green Gables Heritage Place was lately advanced and comes as the place reaches an essential landmark in its history, with this year marking the 150th birthday of Lucy Maud Montgomery. 

Earlier, Green Gables was comprised in the bigger management strategy for PEI National Park. Prepared to be transformed every ten years, management strategies are an obligation of the Parks Canada Agency Act and supervise the running of national historical sites, national parks and national marine preservation areas.

The Green Gables Heritage Place management strategy objectives are charted within three important approaches that will assist the idea of the tourist understanding of the place, the supervision of natural and traditional assets and continual teamwork of associates, shareholders and first nation communities. 

The three important approaches comprise:

Important Strategy 1: The Possibility of Visit

Important Strategy 2: The Pleasurable Ache of Nature

Important Strategy 3: Functioning with Associated Spirits

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