Industry News

A Fully Sponsored 30-day Journey Across Japan Awaits a Travel Enthusiast and Storyteller.

After launching ‘Your Summer Starts Here’ campaign, and as a part of the exciting summer calendar in Qatar, Visit Qatar is set to bring back the ‘Qatar Toy Festival’ the largest of its kind, starting mid-July. This year, the festival returns bigger and better than its predecessor, inviting families to enjoy new live shows and exclusive activations. Qatar Toy Festival brings to families live mascots, toys, performances, and play areas of their children’s favourite brands and characters. Qatar Toy Festival Qatar Toy Festival was inaugurated last year and debuted as one of the most successful events in the calendar. Qatar Toy Festival will commence on July 15 and run through till August 14 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). The festival comprises of 10 Zones, spanning over 17,000 sqm, including 3 new Zones in this year’s edition. These are Preschool, Girls, Boys,Anime, Family, Movie Land, Stage, F&B, Theming Area, and Retail. The festival will include over 50 international brands, including fan-favourites Barbie, Marvel, LOL, Angry Birds, and Naruto. This year, the festival will see new brands including Mr. Bean and Barney, with live shows and 76 mascots. There will be parades and over 19 stage shows, which include musical shows and concerts, science shows, dance shows, competitions, influencers’ performances, like Rasha Rizg, the Adnaan family, the Tarfaan family, Fawzi Muzi, Blippi and Masaka Kidz and more. The festival will also host 5 retail stores and over 200 influencers. Commenting on the festival, Hamad Al Khaja, Acting Head of Events and Festivals Technical Support Section at Qatar Tourism, said: “We are delighted to announce the return of the Qatar Toy Festival this summer as part of Qatar’s summer calendar. Qatar Toy Festival is a great opportunity for families in Qatar seeking indoor entertainment. Activations are catered to children of all ages, as well as their parents and guardians to enjoy. The festival is not only engaging but also educational, encompassing a wide range of entertainment for the whole family. Qatar Toy Festival is a testament to Visit Qatar’s ongoing efforts for a diverse events calendar that serves all occasions, tastes, and ages." The festival provides children with the opportunity to meet and interact with their favourite toy mascots and influencers and is the ultimate family destination throughout the duration of summer. For reservations, tickets and family passes click on the links: Virgin MegaStore https://tickets.virginmegastore.me/ or at QTickets https://events.q- tickets.com/qatar/eventdetails/5980481474/qatar-toys-festival Qatar offers a steady stream of diverse events throughout the year. For more information on the latest events in Qatar’s calendar, please visit www.visitqatar.com.

Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/ Visit Maldives) in collaboration with the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) have jointly extended a special and open invitation to the Indian National Cricket Team, cordially congratulating them and offering an opportunity to celebrate their phenomenal World Cup victory in the Sunny Side of Life. Maldives Conveying heartfelt congratulations and praising their extraordinary achievement, the CEO & Managing Director of MMPRC, Mr Ibrahim Shiuree and the Secretary General of MATI, Mr. Ahmed Nazeer, expressed their strong enthusiasm for hosting the team stating “We would be honoured to host you and ensure that your stay is filled with memorable moments, relaxation, and bespoke experiences.” This invitation also highlights the strong and long-standing cultural and sporting ties between the Maldives and India. The Maldives is the perfect locale for the Indian Cricket Team to celebrate their sporting excellence. As Mr Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO & Managing Director of MMPRC, expressed, “It would be an immense honour for the Maldives to welcome the Indian Cricket Team and share in the joy of their triumph. We eagerly await the opportunity to host them, offering the perfect setting for them to create lasting memories of their victory celebration."

The trailblazing new company is revolutionising sailing tourism, making onboard holidays more simple and fulfilling than ever

INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is offering the “paw-fect” stay for fur parents and their four-legged mates with the introduction of its Pet Friendly program. INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is offering the “paw-fect” stay for fur parents and their four-legged mates with the introduction of its Pet Friendly program The 208-room hotel, which debuted in July 2023 in the heart of Bangkok’s lively On Nut neighborhood, is rolling out the welcome mat for pet dogs. A welcome card, welcome bag of snacks, pet bed, bowls for food and water, and doggie bags for waste collection are among the hotel’s host of pet amenities. Furry guests have access to the upper deck of the lifestyle hotel’s top floor, the 34th floor, which features outdoor lounges and is accompanied by sweeping vistas of Bangkok’s mesmerizing skyline. Situated adjacent to the hotel’s sky-high transparent infinity pool and a compelling interpretation of Bangkok’s Brahman structure The Giant Swing, the upper deck is serviced by the Giant Swing Bar that offers Mediterranean, Thai and international snacks and dishes such as INNSiDE’s Burger and beverages including imaginative cocktails. Furry guests have access to the upper deck of the lifestyle hotel’s top floor, the 34th floor, which features outdoor lounges and is accompanied by sweeping vistas of Bangkok’s mesmerizing skyline Other pet-friendly areas include the hotel’s ground lobby and 32nd floor. Comprising a reception area and the Open Living Lounge integrated into a vast coworking space, the 32nd floor’s soaring floor-to-ceiling windows provide a front seat to Bangkok’s skyline. Only one dog is permitted to stay in an INNSiDE Room at an additional cost of THB 1200 (USD 33) per room per night. A maximum of two dogs are allowed in the Townhouse accommodations for an additional THB 2000 (USD 55) per room per night. The hotel’s concierge team are also on hand to recommend “INNSiDE” knowledge about dog-friendly attractions and venues in the neighborhood and across Bangkok. Other pet-friendly areas include the hotel’s 32nd floor. Comprising a reception area and the Open Living Lounge integrated into a vast coworking space, the 32nd floor’s soaring floor-to-ceiling windows provide a front seat to Bangkok’s skyline “There’s no need to leave your pet behind and worry about the hassle of finding a dog sitter; our distinguished four-legged guests, an integral part of the family, are also welcome to enjoy the spoils of a getaway,” said the hotel’s general manager Aarron Nelson. “We aim to establish a genuine connection with both our human and pet friends from the outset”. INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit’s dog-friendly hospitality is part of Meliá Hotels International’s broader Pet Friendly program being introduced to select hotels globally. During the booking process, the reservations team will gather as much information as possible about the guest’s dog to help personalise the experience from the moment the guest and their furry companion set foot in the hotel. INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is part of a collection of unique urban and beach hotels in 14 different countries designed for those with curious minds who cultivate a fluid lifestyle when it comes to work and leisure.

The global hospitality Group and representatives from 17 international corporations form an advisory council to design and shape a new era of corporate travel and meetings for 2025 and beyond

There are bars and then there are rooftop bars. We’ve put together a mini round-up of two awe-inspiring rooftop bars in Thailand – one towering over Bangkok, the other Chiang Mai.

Plush bars, hotels, spas, restaurants and heritage and nature sites add to area’s allure

Named after the largest rough diamond ever discovered, Cullinan Belek is the leading all-inclusive, ultra-luxury resort nestled between the white sand beaches of the Turkish Riviera and the Taurus mountains. From the exceptional dining experiences to its focus on family-friendly activities, world class facilities and wellness offerings, Cullinan Belek promises an unforgettable escape this summer. Cullinan Belek World-class facilities Surrounded by lush Mediterranean greenery and pristine beaches, Cullinan Belek is the ultimate summer playground. The resort’s 800-metre-long private sandy beach is adorned with private cabanas and sunbeds all serviced with food and drink, so you’ll never have to leave the beach. For additional tanning space there are two timber piers that provide the perfect space to soak up the sun. Unwind in style with a round of golf on the resort’s renowned 36-hole golf course complete with sea and rivers views. Consider yourself a foodie? Cullinan has a vibrant collection of 6 à la carte restaurants with highlights including freshly caught seafood room from beachfront restaurant, Yamas and cuisines from all around the globe at Mare. Cullinan Belek Five-star family escape A destination designed for families, Cullinan Belek, features a range of activities and facilities that promise an unforgettable vacation for guests of all ages. Families have plenty of exciting activities to choose from, perfect for summer. Children can splash around in the 3,000 m2 water park that features 13 slides or keep cool in one of the 13 swimming pools. Parents will be pleased to learn that the resort includes its own UPUPA kid's club offering a soft play adventure park, indoor playground, games rooms complete with a bowling alley and a summer events programme that runs seven days a week until 2 am. A variety of family-friendly suites and villas provide spacious accommodation for families of any size, the sea-view and swim-up suites, two-story family rooms, and spacious villas that can host 6-8 people, providing an unparalleled luxury escape. Cullinan Belek Wellness haven Inspired by the soothing sounds and colours of nature, C’Espace Spa is a sanctuary for relaxation seekers. Spanning an impressive 8,000 sq. metres, with 18 treatment rooms including a bespoke Turkish hammam, saunas, plunge pool, vitamin bar, fitness centre as well as a series of indoor and outdoor pools. Indulge in a list of signature treatments and packages, with specialties including everything from a traditional Turkish hammam ritual to a "Gold Massage" which involves a special oil containing gold flakes that will leave your skin glowing all summer long. For more information and reservations, please visit the Cullinan Belek website.

Tourism Fiji is thrilled to announce its partnership with the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) to host the inaugural AdventureNEXT Fiji event from November 20th to 22nd, 2024. ATTA, a global organization committed to fostering responsible and sustainable adventure travel and trade, serves as a collaborative platform for businesses, destinations, and individuals in the adventure tourism sector. AdventureNEXT Fiji aims to spotlight Fiji as a burgeoning adventure travel destination while providing a platform for local operators to engage with international stakeholders. Tourism Fiji CEO, Brent Hill expressed his enthusiasm stating, “Tourism Fiji is excited to be partnering with ATTA to bring the first AdventureNEXT event to Fiji in November this year. AdventureNEXT is where Fiji can position its adventure tourism experiences to a large audience of between 250-300 international buyers and media, who will in turn then spread the word about Fiji’s natural, cultural and adventure tourism activities to their audiences. While accommodation investment is vital, so too is enriching tourism experiences, particularly in adventure tourism, aligning with Fiji's offerings and opening opportunities for local entrepreneurs." Shannon Stowell, ATTA CEO said, “Tourism Fiji sees a chance to enhance adventure tourism, tapping into a $300 billion market set to grow by 17% in the next 8 years.” “Having our first major event in the South Pacific is exciting and the fact that Fiji is taking such a leadership role by hosting is powerful. Fiji offers such amazing experiences and culture, and the ATTA cannot wait to put on AdventureNEXT. It’s even more special for me personally as Fiji was my first international travel experience back in 1986. I’ve had to wait almost 40 years to return and am really anticipating visiting Fiji again.” With a diverse attendance including adventure tour operators, travel agents, and media representatives, AdventureNEXT Fiji will feature famils, keynote speakers, and workshops, enriching the experience for all participants and contributing over $1 million to Fiji's visitor economy.

A new campaign offers carefully curated packages to spotlight both Qatar and Saudi Arabia’s touristic landscapes

With daily direct flights from London to Dubrovnik opening up on 31st of March, Dubrovnik and its region are set to be a must go destination this spring. Immersed in rich culture, gorgeous gastronomy, events and endless activities for all of the family, Dubrovnik makes for the perfect gateway. 1. A playground for outdoor adventurersSpring is the perfect season to visit Dubrovnik and its surroundings, allowing visitors to make the most of the outdoorsy activities the region offers. Families, couples or solo travellers will enjoy kayaking on the island of Lokrum lying just off Dubrovnik, soaring down the two breath-taking zip-lines with stunning views of the Dubrovnik Old Town and the Adriatic or participating in the Run The Wall challenge - literally running on Dubrovnik’s Old Town walls on the 27th April 2024 around the medieval walls, with their 1080 steps and1940 meters of history. 2. Dubrovnik’s classical music sceneRuning from the end of April through June, Dubrovnik Musical Spring is a series of classical music concerts performed by the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra. With carefully selected programs taking place in historical locations in Dubrovnik such as the 13th century Franciscan church and the Rector's Palace, the Dubrovnik Musical Spring has hosted more than 30 renowned artists, soloists, and conductors, emphasising the importance of music and its traditions in Dubrovnik.  3. Get your art fixImmerse into Croatian culture by meeting local and national artists with the Hotel Supetar Cavtat SupetART artist-in-residence program. From May 2024, Romana Milutin Fabris will debut their latest collection, transforming the hotel’s communal spaces into a month-long interactive pop-up gallery. Known for her vivid and colourful works, Romana’s works are characterised by frequent symbolism. In her paintings, the City pulses, lives, and dances in colours depending on her mood. 4. Expect gastronomy galoreEpicureans will be able to discover the local specialties, feasting in Michelin-recommended hotspots or nibbling at food markets including the street food festival Bavarin. Held in early May each year offering delicious Croatian food specialities, culinary workshops, live performances and more. Vapor Restaurant at Hotel Bellevue with striking sea views over the Dalmatian coastline and Michelin Guide noteworthy, guests can enjoy contemporary takes on signature dishes including lobster tail and lamb rump steak. 5. Beyond Dubrovnik's walls, explore CavtatBuilt by refugees from Roman Epidaurum, Cavtat is a coastal town and cultural haven. Delve into its past through the 15th-century monastery within St. Nicholas church, the Renaissance mansion that displays the manuscripts of scientist Baltazar Bogišić, and the home of Croatian painter Vlaho Bukovac. For a unique experience, head to the cloister of Cavtat's Franciscan monastery and church established in 1484 for musical concerts amid lofty surroundings before walking the promenades and pebble beaches along the shoreline where fishing boats idle on the deep-blue Adriatic. Luxury hotels in Dubrovnik welcoming discerning guests   Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik With its prestigious location just steps from the UNESCO Old City of Dubrovnik, Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik is an historic villa built in 1913 and taking full advantage of gorgeous west-facing views of the glorious Old Town. Hotel Excelsior offers the most enviable location of any hotel in the city – just a five-minute walk from the medieval fortress walls. Feast at Sensus Restaurant and enjoy unconventional and creative dishes, made from fresh local delicacies and carefully paired with finest Croatian wines. Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik features three restaurants all offering spectacular views of the Adriatic, an indoor swimming pool, a spa, and a fitness centre.   Hotel Supetar Cavtat Hotel Excelsior’s sister property, Hotel Supetar, has 16 spacious, elegant and custom-designed rooms in a unique Mediterranean style with private gardens, enchanting sea views and spacious outdoor areas. Housed in an original three-storey private villa dating back to the 1920s, built on the remains of the ancient settlement of Epidaurum, Hotel Supetar has become, after a complete renovation, one of the most exceptional boutique retreats in Cavtat. Situated between the picturesque streets of the small historic town of Cavtat and the uninterrupted blue of the Adriatic Sea, Hotel Supetar boasts a perfect location just a few steps away from Cavtat's charming promenade. Gastronomists will savour Mediterranean cuisine in the hotel’s gourmet restaurant where authentic delicacies are served on a romantic outdoor terrace with panoramic views of the bay of Cavtat and the Adriatic Sea on the horizon.     Hero image: Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik