Tourism News Page 632
Marriott Bonvoy and Marriott Hotels Deepen Manchester United Fandom
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program, is inviting the global community of Manchester United fans to fulfill their dreams – including playing on the pitch at Old Trafford, stadium sleepovers, traveling alongside the team, watching a match with a Club Legend, and much more. Throughout the 2024-2025 season, fans can bid on and win Marriott Bonvoy Moments experiences giving them incredible access to the team. In addition, fans can also enter a sweepstakes to close out the season playing a match on the hallowed grounds of Old Trafford.
SAUDI SET TO UNVEIL NEW DESTINATIONS AND BOLD INNOVATIONS AT WORLD TRAVEL MARKET 2024
Saudi is set to make a dynamic return to World Travel Market (WTM) London 2024 with a core delegation of 61 key stakeholders, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s exceptional growth in tourism and strengthening trade partnerships with the industry. The Saudi delegation will be led by His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism and Chairman of Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), accompanied by Fahd Hamidaddin, the CEO of Saudi Tourism Authority and leaders from the wider Saudi tourism ecosystem, as well as prominent industry partners. The delegation includes key entities such as the Ministry of Tourism, the Tourism Development Fund, ASFAR, Cruise Saudi, Saudia, Riyadh Air, Red Sea Global, Diriyah Company, the Royal Commission for AlUla, and visionary projects like NEOM. Cultural and entertainment highlights, including Riyadh Season, MDL Beast, and Qiddiya will also be represented, showcasing Saudi’s diverse offerings and investment in tourism innovation. For the first time at WTM, 17 international and local hotel brands will join the Saudi delegation, making this the largest number of hotel partners in the Saudi Pavilion.
Crowne Plaza Podgorica set to open in the Capital Plaza by the end of 2024
IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG), one of the world’s leading hotel companies, announces the signing of Crowne Plaza Podgorica – its seventh hotel in Montenegro, and second in the capital city. The converted property, owned by BIG CEE, is set to open by the end of 2024.
Etihad Airways Announced as Official Airline and Platinum Sponsor for Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024
he organizing committee of the Air Expo Abu Dhabi proudly announces Etihad Airways as the Official Airline and Platinum Sponsor for the upcoming event, scheduled for 19-21 November 2024. Since 2012, Etihad Airways has consistently supported the Air Expo, reflecting its commitment as the national carrier of the UAE to promote Abu Dhabi as a global aviation hub. As an industry leader, Etihad Airways continues to play a crucial role in advancing the aviation sector in the region. The airline is currently undergoing an ambitious growth strategy which will see it double the fleet size and destination network by 2030, as well as triple the number of passengers carried from 2022 figures. This growth further underpins Etihad’s contribution to the growth of Abu Dhabi’s aviation sector.
Sofitel Expands its Luxury Portfolio with the Signing of Sofitel Cairo Downtown Nile
Cairo, Egypt – Accor, a global leader in hospitality, is thrilled to announce the signing of Sofitel Cairo Downtown Nile, fourth sofitel hotel in Egypt, marking a significant milestone in the expansion of the brand. This luxury property, set to open in January 2025, is a conversion, bringing a fresh wave of French elegance to the heart of Cairo’s downtown Nile-front district.
Regent Taste Studio Elevates Immersive Multi-Sensory Experiences
Regent Hotels & Resorts perfectly encapsulates the essence of modern luxury and continues to redefine boundaries with innovative concepts and excellent design. Following its debut in the Greater China market last year, the second season of Regent Taste Studio has graced the doors of Regent Shanghai on The Bund. With the theme ‘The Magic of Beauty of Contrast’, this edition features five meticulously crafted chapters, bringing together four talented chefs from Shanghai and Chongqing to captivate guests at Regent Shanghai on The Bund from October 28 to November 12.
Hyatt Centric Cairo West Opens its Doors
Hyatt Centric Cairo West proudly announces its debut as the first art-centered lifestyle hotel in Cairo, offering a contemporary stay that embodies the rich cultural heritage and vibrant art scene of Egypt. Nestled in the heart of the bustling city, Hyatt Centric Cairo West invites guests on an immersive journey through Egyptian history reimagined for modern travelers.
Hilton to Further Mexico Expansion
Leading global hospitality company, Hilton (NYSE: HLT), announced the signing of a franchise agreement for the upcoming conversion of The Sens Cancun Adults Only All-Inclusive Resort, Tapestry by Hilton, one of more than 10 new deals Hilton has signed in Mexico in 2024. As one of Hilton’s largest and fastest-growing markets globally, Mexico welcomes guests at more than 100 hotels and resorts across the country, and is poised for continued multi-brand, multi-destination growth with 40 additional hotels in various stages of development. The Sens Cancun resort is owned and will continue to be managed by Oasis Hotels & Resorts.
Tru by Hilton Opens First Hotel in Colombia
Tru by Hilton, Hilton’s innovative and energetic hotel brand for practical travelers, is set to transform the hospitality experience in Colombia with the opening of Tru by Hilton Cali Sur, the brand’s first hotel in the country. This new hotel, operated by Hoteles MS, is located in one of the most dynamic areas of western Colombia, surrounded by prestigious universities, shopping centers, recognized hospitals, and the two most important technology hubs in the country.
Eat Like a Shogun in Saitama-Kawaguchi -November 2024 to January 2025
A new tour held at Shakujoji Temple, in the city of Kawaguchi in Saitama Prefecture,allows visitors to experience a day in the life of a shogun, traveling on the ancient Nikko-onari-kaido highway (The road Tokugawa shoguns used to visit Nikko Tosho-gu Shrine) Road to pay their respects at Toshogu Shrine in Nikko.
Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort and Aloft Palm Jumeirah Welcome the Return of Mohamed El Aghoury
Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort and Aloft Palm Jumeirah are proud to announce the return of Mohamed El Aghoury as the Multi-Property General Manager. With over 30 years of leadership in the hospitality industry, El Aghoury brings a wealth of experience in enhancing performance, transforming properties, and delivering exceptional guest experiences. His return marks a new chapter for both properties, as he leads the teams toward even greater success. His strategic vision and operational expertise will be pivotal in maintaining Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort’s reputation as a premier destination, while further solidifying Aloft Palm Jumeirah’s position as a vibrant, lifestyle hotel in Dubai. Under his leadership, both properties are poised to set new benchmarks in hospitality, elevating service standards and ensuring memorable stays for guests.
Thailand Winter Festivals Unveiled: A Seasonal Showcase of ‘7 Wonders of Thailand’
Thailand’s Prime Minister, H.E. Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, together with the National Soft Power Strategy Committee, officially launched the Thailand Winter Festivals at the Government House today. Running from November to December, these events aim to highlight Thailand’s rich cultural assets and foster tourism growth.