Destinations
CTO, Partners Gearing Up For Recovery Forum
The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) is teaming up with the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Euromonitor International, the Travel Foundation, and the University of the West Indies to present the Caribbean Tourism Recovery Forum on Oct. 14 and Oct. 15, 2020. The virtual event will focus on planning and management of the recovery process for the Caribbean. Neil Walters, the CTO’s acting secretary general, said: “From the onset of COVID-19, the CTO has sought expertise to assist our members with immediate, short-term and long-term recovery planning as they navigate the path...
‘I Need Switzerland’ Campaign Launched Today
Switzerland is rolling out a major consumer and trade campaign -- “I need Switzerland.” The campaign will run from today (Oct. 5) to Nov.1, because with the Swiss borders having been open to Canadians for some time, the moment is right to talk about booking travel again. Pascal Prinz, director for Switzerland Tourism in Canada, observed: “Switzerland and Canada rank amongst the safest countries in this Covid-19 world according to a recent study by the Deep Knowledge Group. Canadians can travel to Switzerland without having to quarantine upon arrival and immediately enjoy the...
Work From Antigua And Barbuda
Antigua And Barbuda’s new Nomad Digital Residence (NDR) program allows people to work safely and with ease from the twin-island paradise for as long as two years with the new NDR visa. Announced by Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister, The Honourable Gaston Browne, the Nomad Digital Residence program is designed to attract persons who can meet the requirements of their employers or their clients, while working remotely. Under the program, eligible persons can live and move freely throughout Antigua and Barbuda for up to two years, and benefit from Antigua and Barbuda’s no...
Seeking Safety
In its most recent tracking study of American travellers, Longwoods International reports that “clear safety and cleanliness protocols matter to Americans when considering where to stay on their upcoming trips.” The study found that lodging properties with cleaning and hygiene programs are sought by 55% of travellers, and mask-wearing requirements and/or social distancing policies are desirable for 47% of those planning their U.S. trips. Amir Eylon, president and CEO of Longwoods International, said: “We know from our research that to win customers during this pandemic,...
Panama Set To Reopen On Oct. 12
Panama will reopen its borders to international visitors from all countries on Oct. 12, 2020. With COVID-19 still a worldwide concern, The Panama Tourism Authority has worked closely with The Ministry of Health, alongside other government authorities, to implement strategic health and safety protocols designed to keep both visitors and local communities throughout the destination safe during and after its initial tourism reopening. “After closing our borders to travellers in late March, we are excited to safely welcome visitors back to Panama,” said Minister Eskildsen. “The...
We Salute You … All Of You
Not even a global pandemic could prevent Baxter Media from paying tribute to those in the travel industry who are truly deserving of tributes. On Thursday, Baxter Media took the high-tech route to host the 2020 Agents’ Choice Awards Virtual Gala and salute the favourites of its annual, and 21st, Agents' Choice Awards Readership Survey. The event – the high point for this country’s travel industry – welcomed 700 registered attendees. Required social distancing resulting from coronavirus prompted Baxter Media to reach out virtually this year, rather than hosting another of...
Airport Testing For Travellers Imperative: OECS
Responding to remarks by the CEO of London Heathrow, John Holland-Kaye warning of a catastrophe for UK aviation if air travel is not resumed, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Heads of Government voiced their concern about the prediction. However, the OECS leaders indicated that they were ‘heartened’ by Holland-Kaye’s recommendation and solution focusing on the consideration of testing at UK airports in order to ensure that all travellers are COVID-19 free and to allow such travellers freedom to travel. The OECS said the call strengthens its efforts...
What Does The Future Hold?
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has unveil a new report that explores the implications of the trends for each of four key travel and tourism stakeholders -- travellers, businesses, workforce, and communities. The report emphasizes the importance of taking a global coordinated approach to recovery: enhancing the current seamless travel experience, embracing the integration of new technologies and enacting global protocols for health and hygiene to ultimately rebuild the confidence of travellers. And it highlights the need for public and private sector to work together...