Destinations
Nationwide Thai Curfew Lifted
The nationwide nighttime curfew that was in place in Thailand since May 22 has been lifted. The announcement from the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), currently overseeing Thailand’s administration, has been welcomed by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), as it marks a return to normality for the country’s tourism industry. The nighttime curfew had already gradually been revoked in provinces and destinations popular with tourists, such as Pattaya, Phuket, Ko Samui, Krabi, Hua Hin, Cha-am and Phang-nga, ensuring that visitors to the kingdom would not be...
Canadian Tourism to Israel Soars in May
A record-breaking 39% more Canadians arrived in Israel in May 2014 than in May 2013, according to Haim Gutin (pictured), Consul and Israel Tourism Commissioner, North and South America. Overall, Canadian tourism to Israel is up 16% for the five-month period, January-May. 2013 was the best year ever for tourism to Israel, with close to four million visitors. Worldwide tourism to Israel was up 17% in May 2014 over May 2013. “Frankly, an increase of 39% is staggering – it’s the largest ever monthly increase in Canadian tourism to Israel that I can recall,” said Gutin....
TIABC Approves New Membership Fee Structure
At TIABC’s recent board meeting in Vancouver, a revised membership fee structure was approved. TIABC’s executive director Ian Robertson has been very active over the past six months meeting with members, government and organizations, listening to what the needs are and how TIABC can help. He has also has been working with the board of directors to identify key priorities for the organization and establish a strategic plan towards long-term sustainability -- which membership plays a key role in. Two key issues that needed addressing were building a long-term plan for...
It’s Double the Fun This Summer in Fort Lauderdale
Through Sept. 30, visitors can enjoy a “2-for-1 Summer Savings” program at an array of attractions in the Greater Fort Lauderdale area highlighting the diversity of this destination. There’s something for everyone with activities such as golfing, fishing, dining, exciting nightlife, shopping, and, of course, top-rated beaches. For full program details, visit http://www.sunny.org/summer . The Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitor Bureau wants to send one lucky agent, plus a guest, on a week-long beach getaway to sunny Fort Lauderdale. Enjoy a seven-night trip including...
Hotel Franchising Set to Grow Across Europe
Europe is likely to see a greater proportion of branded hotels coming on stream as the concept of franchising gathers pace amongst hotel operators in the region. Until now, the uptake of franchise agreements in Europe has been relatively slow. However, according to a new report from global hotel consultancy HVS, an increasing recognition of the strength of a hotel brand and brand affiliation has prompted the concept to expand. The fact around two-thirds of European hotel stock remains unbranded presents a huge opportunity for branded operators keen to expand. The HVS report,...
Major Revisions Coming for Outrigger Reef on the Beach
Outrigger Enterprises Group will embark on a $100 million renovation in 2017 to revitalize the oceanfront Outrigger Reef on the Beach in Waikiki, slated for completion in 2019. The project renewal includes razing an existing five-storey structure and replacing it with 3,100 square metres of recreational space, building a new tower to add more than 200 full-service hotel rooms, and constructing 1,400 square metres of meeting space to accommodate the small to mid-size meetings...
Eco-Adventures Launches Maui’s 1st Zip n’ Dip Tour
Hawaii’s Skyline Eco-Adventures is launching a new Zip n’ Dip tour at its Ka‘anapali location on Maui on June 16. Visitors can experience the new lines and new activities with Maui’s 1st Zip n’ Dip Tour, offering a four-line zipline experience that includes the Zip n’ Dip line, double racing line and two new Zip lines. The three-hour experience includes a stop at a natural mountain pool where guests can enjoy unlimited Zip n’ Dips while splashing into the natural pool. Guests will also enjoy swimming and lounging on a floating raft with mountain, ocean and off-shore...
Jump Into Ireland’s Free Educational Webinars
Tourism Ireland’s educational webinar series is designed to help agents sell Ireland to interested clients and give them the most up-to-date information about tours and services offered in the Emerald Isle. This summer we have a two-part series with Irish partners calling in directly from Ireland to answer your questions. Webinar One: From Dublin to Cork takes place on June 25, 12:00 p.m. EST with representatives from The Guinness Storehouse, The Cottages, and SouthWest Walks Ireland. Webinar Two: Northern Ireland - A Hidden Gem broadcasts July 2, at 12 p.m. EST. Speakers will...