Technology Highlight

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Comparent, a groundbreaking marketplace that transforms how vacation rental owners connect with the ideal property management company, has officially launched today.

Headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, Comparent boasts the world’s largest directory of short-term rental property management agencies, allowing second-home owners to search and compare over 5,000 firms across hundreds of markets in the U.S. and internationally.

Founded and led by CEO Brooke Pfautz, a 16-year veteran of the short-term rental industry, Comparent aims to bring transparency and ease to the process of selecting the perfect property manager for your vacation home.

Finding a manager for your short-term rental is one of the most frustrating processes in the short-term rental space,” said Pfautz, who owns his own vacation rental and previously led one of the largest vacation rental management companies in Ocean City, MD. “Compared to other industries, there’s a major deficit in the amount of information available online that can assist homeowners in deciding which property manager to choose.”

Comparent addresses this challenge by consolidating property manager performance data, guest reviews, owner feedback, and more into one user-friendly website. Initially, this information is gathered from publicly available online resources. However, once property managers claim their profiles, they have the option to provide more accurate data by authorizing the sharing of their performance metrics through a verified third-party analytics provider.

“As far as I know, this is the first time that this level of data has been publicly accessible online,” Pfautz said. “While it’s a first for the short-term rental space, most other industries already have one or more established directories. We’re simply doing for the STR space what Capterra and G2 have done for software, what Angi has done for contractors, and what Clutch has done for marketing agencies.

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Novotel Pune is excited to announce the appointment of Anant Leekha as the new General Manager. With a rich background spanning over two decades in the hospitality industry, Anant brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. His expertise in both sales and operations, combined with his ability to inspire and lead dynamic teams, positions him as a valuable asset to the Novotel Pune team.

In his new role, Anant will spearhead initiatives aimed at driving business growth and enhancing guest experiences. He is committed to leveraging strategic and technological advancements to elevate the hotel’s service standards. Anant is dedicated to delivering the Heartist experience, a unique approach that emphasizes heartfelt service, to both guests and team members.

This appointment marks Anant’s return to Pune, where he previously served as General Manager in 2016, marking a significant chapter in his career. His 16-year tenure with Accor has equipped him with deep insights into the company’s values, service excellence, and brand identity. Prior to joining Novotel Pune, Anant served as Cluster General Manager at ibis Mumbai Vikhroli, ibis Navi Mumbai, and ibis Thane, overseeing a total of 631 rooms and consistently achieving outstanding performance metrics.

Anant holds a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management & Catering Technology. Outside of his professional life, he enjoys playing cricket, spending time with his family on beach vacations, and celebrating life with his loved ones, which inspires his drive for excellence in his career.

The post Novotel Pune Welcomes Anant Leekha as New General Manager appeared first on Travel And Tour World.”}]] [[{“value”:”Reading Time: 2 minutes Novotel Pune is excited to announce the appointment of Anant Leekha as the new General Manager. With a rich background spanning over two decades
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Moxy Hotels by Marriott Bonvoy opens in Chongqing, blending playful, social hospitality with stylish rooms and unique amenities, all near top attractions.

Moxy Hotels, a member of Marriott Bonvoy’s impressive collection of over 30 hotel brands, has unveiled the opening of Moxy Chongqing, its first property in the lively city of Chongqing. Embracing the brand’s energetic and social essence, Moxy Chongqing ushers in a new wave of playful hospitality to this captivating destination.

“We are delighted to celebrate the arrival of Moxy Hotels in Southwest China, following the brand’s entry to Shanghai, Shenzhen, Nanjing, Xi’an and Qiandao Lake. Moxy Hotel is a distinct lifestyle brand and is a perfect fit for Chongqing, a city known for its unique architecture and vibrant nightlife,” said Matthew Boettcher, Vice President of Distinctive Select Brand Portfolio, Marriott International. “As we continue to grow Moxy portfolio in the Chinese market and connect with more guests on the road.”

Moxy Chongqing is perfectly positioned within a 100-meter walk to the People’s Liberation Monument, one of Chongqing’s iconic landmarks. This prime location offers convenient access to public transportation with three metro stations nearby. Guests can easily reach popular attractions such as Bayi Food Street, known for its vibrant night market and local delicacies, and Hongya Cave, a fascinating architectural marvel. The hotel is approximately 18.5 kilometers from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, ensuring easy access for travelers.

The hotel’s interior design takes inspiration from Chongqing’s unique architectural blend of modern high-rises and traditional stilted houses, creating a playful atmosphere. Moxy Chongqing features 360 stylish guest rooms that combine edgy details with functionality and are designed to maximize space. Each room includes peg walls, comfortable bedding, Moxy’s signature Stellar Works foldable desks and chairs, 55-inch flat-screen TVs, walk-in showers, and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, allowing guests to tailor the room to their needs.

Located on the 29th floor, Moxy Bar serves as an interactive communal hub with intriguing decor and ambient lighting. Guests are greeted with a complimentary “Got Moxy” cocktail at check-in, performed at Bar Moxy. By day, the bar serves as a lounge for dining, working, and socializing; by night, it transforms into a lively space that rotates every 90 minutes, offering stunning views of downtown and a variety of drinks. The hotel’s self-service concept includes “Moxy Pick-ups,” providing a selection of grab-and-go snacks, fresh juices, coffee, wine, and beer throughout the day.

Guests can rejuvenate at the 24/7 fitness center, equipped with a boxing bag, signature racing bike, and other exercise equipment. Additionally, the 24/7 ironing room, a signature Moxy amenity, allows guests to prepare their outfits anytime before heading out to explore the city.

“We are thrilled at the opening of the first Moxy hotel in Chongqing, known as China’s ‘Mountain City’. We also look forward to welcoming ‘Fun Hunters’ to enjoy an invigorating stay that comes with breathtaking city views,” said Huang Xiaoyi, General Manager of Moxy Hotel Chongqing. “At Moxy, our spirited Crew members will bring the brand’s playful spirit into life by thoughtfully crafting fun events for travelers and locals who like to socialize and meet new friends.”

The post Moxy Hotels Debuts in Chongqing with a New Era of Playful Hospitality by Marriott Bonvoy appeared first on Travel And Tour World.”}]] [[{“value”:”Reading Time: 2 minutes Moxy Hotels by Marriott Bonvoy opens in Chongqing, blending playful, social hospitality with stylish rooms and unique amenities, all near top attractions.
The post Moxy Hotels Debuts in Chongqing with a New Era of Playful Hospitality by Marriott Bonvoy appeared first on Travel And Tour World.”}]]  Read More Travel And Tour World CHINA TRAVEL NEWS, HOTEL NEWS, HOTEL NEWS HOME, China Travel News, chongqing, Hospitality Industry, Hotel News, Marriott Bonvoy, MOXY HOTELS, People’s Liberation Monument 

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Belize is seeing a significant boost in tourism due to a new visa-free travel policy for citizens from 102 countries, including the Bahamas, the Philippines, and the United Kingdom. This initiative is expected to attract many international visitors, enhancing Belize’s appeal with its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse eco-tourism opportunities. Belize, on Central America’s eastern coast, features Caribbean Sea shorelines, dense jungles, the expansive Belize Barrier Reef, and Mayan ruins like Caracol, Lamanai, and Altun Ha.

Belize – Outbound Tourism Departures:

Below is a list of tourist statistics for various countries in Central America and the Caribbean, organized by year:

El Salvador: 1,788 (2018)

Guatemala: 1,536 (2018)

Honduras: 1,111 (2016)

Costa Rica: 1,079 (2018)

Nicaragua: 974 (2018)

Cuba: 894 (2016)

Puerto Rico: 792 (2017)

Panama: 681 (2018)

Dominican Republic: 514 (2018)

Trinidad and Tobago: 273 (2010)

Belize’s Tourism Sector Thrives Amidst Growing Demand from American Tourists and Retirees, Welcoming 219,000 Visitors in 2021

Belize has experienced steady growth in its travel and tourism sector, primarily driven by strong demand from American tourists and retirees seeking its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and favorable climate. This growth is reflected in the visitor statistics, which show that in 2021, Belize welcomed 219,000 visitors, representing a 15.43% increase.

Although this figure is a significant drop from the 487,000 visitors in 2020, which accounted for 12.06% of the total, it underscores a resilient and recovering tourism market. The country’s efforts to enhance its tourism infrastructure, promote eco-tourism, and offer unique travel experiences continue to attract a substantial number of international travelers.

G.D.P of Belize:
The direct contribution of Belize’s tourism industry to the national economy is substantial, accounting for 11.8 percent of the total GDP. This makes it the second largest contributor to the GDP among the country’s major industries, highlighting its critical role in economic development. The tourism sector supports numerous ancillary businesses, including hospitality, transportation, entertainment, and local crafts, creating widespread economic benefits.

Additionally, the influx of tourists stimulates investment in infrastructure and services, enhancing the overall standard of living. The industry’s significant impact on employment is also notable, providing jobs for a large portion of the population and contributing to poverty alleviation. Belize’s strategic focus on sustainable tourism and eco-friendly practices further strengthens its appeal as a top destination, ensuring the long-term health of its natural resources and cultural heritage.

Expansive lists of Visa-Free Destinations:

Visa-Free list of Belize

Angola

Anguilla

Antigua and Barbuda

Aruba

Bahamas

Barbados

Bermuda

Bonaire; St. Eustatius and Saba

Botswana

Brazil

British Virgin Islands

Colombia

Cook Islands

Costa Rica

Curacao

Dominica

Dominican Republic

Ecuador

El Salvador

eSwatini

Fiji

Georgia

Gibraltar

Grenada

Guatemala

Guyana

Haiti

Honduras

Hong Kong (SAR China)

Ireland

Israel

Jamaica

Kenya

Kiribati

Kosovo

Lesotho

Liberia

Madagascar

Malawi

Malaysia

Mauritius

Mexico

Micronesia

Montserrat

Nicaragua

Niue

Palestinian Territory

Panama

Peru

Philippines

Russian Federation

Rwanda

Seychelles

Singapore

South Africa

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

St. Kitts and Nevis

Suriname

Taiwan (Chinese Taipei)

Tanzania

The Gambia

Trinidad and Tobago

Türkiye

Turks and Caicos Islands

Uganda

United Kingdom

Uruguay

Uzbekistan

Vanuatu

Venezuela

Zambia

Zimbabwe

Visa On Arrival

Bolivia

Burundi

Cambodia

Cape Verde Islands

Cayman Islands

Chile

Comoro Islands

Djibouti

Egypt

Guinea-Bissau

Iran

Laos

Lebanon

Macao (SAR China)

Maldives

Marshall Islands

Mauritania

Mozambique

Nepal

Palau Islands

Samoa

Sierra Leone

Solomon Islands

Somalia

St. Helena

St. Lucia

St. Maarten

Timor-Leste

Tuvalu

ETA

Sri Lanka

Airports in Belize:

Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport, located in Belize City along the eastern coast of Central America, serves as the primary gateway for international travel to and from Belize. In 2021, the airport recorded 219,000 outbound passengers, marking a 15.43% increase from the previous year.

John Greif II Airport, located in San Pedro, Belize, serves as a regional hub for domestic and international travel. In 2021, the airport handled 75,000 outbound passengers, reflecting a steady increase in traffic.

Dangriga Airport, situated in the town of Dangriga, Belize, plays a vital role in regional connectivity. In 2021, the airport recorded 45,000 outbound passengers, indicating robust local travel activity.

Caye Caulker Airport,located on the island of Caye Caulker in Belize, serves as a crucial point for regional travel, connecting the island with other parts of the country.

Corozal Airstrip, located in Corozal, Belize, serves as a key regional hub for air travel. In 2021, the airstrip recorded 32,000 outbound passengers, highlighting its importance in local transportation.

Punta Gorda Airport, located in Punta Gorda, Belize, serves as a vital transportation hub for the region. In 2021, the airport recorded 28,000 outbound passengers, emphasizing its significance in regional travel.

Notable Growth in Belize’s Airline Industry Reflects Enhanced Connectivity and Tourism Development

The airline industry in Belize has seen notable growth in recent years, driven by increasing demand for both domestic and international travel.This growth reflects a broader trend of enhanced connectivity and tourism development in Belize, supported by investments in airport infrastructure and services.
Airlines in Belize:

Airlines in Belize:

Tropic Air, a leading airline in Belize, provides vital air connectivity across the country and to neighboring regions. In 2021, the airline transported 450,000 outbound passengers, demonstrating its key role in the nation’s travel infrastructure. This growth reflects a broader trend of enhanced connectivity and tourism development in Belize, supported by investments in airport infrastructure and services.

Maya Island Air, a prominent airline in Belize, plays a crucial role in regional air travel. In 2021, the airline recorded 300,000 outbound passengers, reflecting its significant contribution to the country’s transportation network.

Luxury Hotels to stay in Belize:

Belize Province also known as the Belize District, is the most populous region in the country, offering a mix of vibrant urban areas and beautiful coastal landscapes. It serves as a gateway to the Belize Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most diverse marine ecosystems.

Caye Caulker is a laid-back island known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant marine life. It is a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and enjoying the relaxed Caribbean lifestyle.

San Pedro, located on Ambergris Caye, is a bustling town known for its lively atmosphere, water sports, and access to the Belize Barrier Reef. It attracts tourists with its vibrant nightlife, excellent seafood, and beach resorts.

Belize City, the largest city in the country, is a hub of cultural and economic activity. It offers historical sites, museums, and a bustling port, making it a starting point for exploring the country’s diverse attractions.

San Ignacio, nestled in the Cayo District, is a charming town known for its rich history and proximity to ancient Mayan ruins. It is a gateway to exploring the region’s lush rainforests, caves, and archaeological sites.

Activities to do in Belize:

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving-Experience world-class snorkeling and diving at the Belize Barrier Reef and Blue Hole, exploring vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

Fishing (Reef, Deep Sea, and Fly Fishing)-Belize is a top fishing destination, offering opportunities to catch species like tarpon and marlin in its rich Caribbean waters.

Island Hopping-Explore Belize’s picturesque cayes, from lively Ambergris Caye to serene Caye Caulker, enjoying beaches, water sports, and local culture.

Cave Tubing and Exploration-Float through Belize’s ancient cave systems, marveling at stunning rock formations and learning about the area’s geological history.

Ziplining and Canopy Tours-Enjoy thrilling ziplining and canopy tours in Belize’s rainforests, with views of the jungle and its exotic wildlife.

Tourist attraction places in Belize:

Ambergris Caye is Belize’s largest island, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. It is a top destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, with easy access to the Belize Barrier Reef.

Caye Caulker is a charming, laid-back island famous for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful beaches. The island’s motto, “Go Slow,” captures the essence of its easygoing lifestyle, attracting visitors looking for a peaceful escape.

Blue Hole is a world-renowned underwater sinkhole located off the coast of Belize. This natural wonder is a top diving destination, offering breathtaking views of stalactites and unique marine species.

Belize Barrier Reef is the second-largest coral reef system in the world, spanning over 300 kilometers. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its diverse marine life and vibrant coral ecosystems.

Caracol is an ancient Mayan archaeological site located in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve. It is one of Belize’s largest and most impressive ruins, known for its towering structures and rich history.

Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, also known as the ATM Cave, is an archaeological site containing ancient Mayan artifacts and remains. The cave offers a unique and adventurous experience, combining caving, swimming, and exploration of historical relics.

Belize‘s tourism industry continues to thrive, driven by its diverse attractions, including pristine beaches, rich marine life, and cultural heritage. The growth in both air and cruise travel highlights the country’s appeal as a premier destination. Strategic investments in sustainable practices and enhanced travel experiences have further bolstered this sector. As Belize remains committed to promoting its natural and cultural assets, it stands poised for sustained growth, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.

The post Belize Tourism Surge as 87 countries Eligible Under Visa Free Travel Program-Check Now if your country is Eligible appeared first on Travel And Tour World.”}]] [[{“value”:”Reading Time: 6 minutes Belize is seeing a significant boost in tourism due to a new visa-free travel policy for citizens from 102 countries, including the Bahamas, the Philippines, and the United Kingdom.
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Celebrate Friendship Day at Toscano with delicious Italian cuisine, exclusive deals, and a warm ambiance, making it the perfect place for memorable moments with friends.

Friendship Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate the special bonds we share with our closest friends. What better way to do it than with a delicious meal and refreshing drinks? Toscano, renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine and warm ambiance, offers the ideal setting to enjoy these cherished moments.

Gather your friends and experience the lively atmosphere at Toscano, perfect for group celebrations. Their menu boasts a delectable array of Italian dishes, expertly crafted to tantalize your taste buds. Complement your meal with a selection of fine wines and handcrafted beverages that pair perfectly with their culinary creations.

This Friendship Day, Toscano is excited to offer exclusive deals to make your celebration even more special.

Amici Day Combos Offers from the Best Friends on the Toscano Menu:

Pizza and Beverage Combo:

12-inch Pizza + 2 glasses of beer for Rs. 1099 + taxes (Available at UB City, Koramangala, FSN, Koregaon Park, and Amanora Mall outlets)

12-inch Pizza + 2 glasses of wine for Rs. 1099 + taxes (Available at all outlets except VR Mall and Phoenix Market City, Chennai)

12-inch Pizza + 2 glasses of mocktail for Rs. 999 + taxes (Available at VR Mall and Phoenix Market City, Chennai outlets)

Dessert and Coffee Combo:

One Signature Dessert (Tiramisu/Kahlua Mousse) + 2 cups of coffee for Rs. 499 + taxes (Available at all outlets)

Toscano offers more than just dining; it’s an unforgettable experience. Let them create a memorable Friendship Day for you and your friends. Book your table now and get ready to celebrate in style!

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Viking® unveiled its revamped Travel Advisor Portal today, aimed at equipping travel advisors with enhanced tools and resources for selling Viking’s offerings. This initiative underscores Viking’s dedication to supporting travel advisors and their clientele through an improved platform. The updated portal includes an extensive array of features to optimize the booking process and facilitate marketing efforts. Advisors now have access to dynamic marketing materials and resources for creating co-branded websites, in addition to the well-received Travel Advisor Academy, where they can gain expertise in promoting Viking’s diverse travel options, including river, ocean, and expedition voyages.

“For 27 years, curious travelers have explored the world in comfort with Viking, and one of the reasons we have enjoyed success is because of our relationships with travel advisors,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “We have always had some of the most trade-friendly policies, including our history first and only major cruise line with no NCFs. This new and improved portal is the latest step in our effort to be the best business partner for travel advisors.”

Today, Viking® unveiled significant enhancements to its Travel Advisor Portal, designed to make the booking process more streamlined and user-friendly. The portal now offers several new features:

Navigate the booking journey: Utilize intuitive filters to explore various cruise types, finding itineraries by city, port, month, or date range.

Discover voyages via offer code: A new search feature allows for the identification and booking of sailings eligible under specific promotions.

Streamlined booking management: Organize reservations by upcoming payment deadlines using the revamped booking dashboard.

Simplified client search: Locate bookings quickly by guest name and sort by their current status.

Interactive stateroom selection: Choose from all available stateroom categories through an interactive selection tool.

Integrated Air Plus options: Add Air Plus to bookings directly online, eliminating the need to contact the Viking Air Department.

Generate eQuotes effortlessly: Easily download a PDF or print quotes for clients directly from the platform.

This announcement marks another significant milestone in Viking’s trade relations, following a recent celebration of numerous accolades at the 2024 WAVE Awards by TravelAge West. Viking was recognized by travel advisors in several categories, including Best River Cruise Line for Providing Outstanding Advisor Support and Best River Cruise Line for U.S. Sailings, specifically for its Mississippi journeys. The Viking Aton was named Best New River Cruise Ship, navigating the Nile River. Additionally, Viking excelled in the ocean and expedition segments, receiving awards for Highest Client Satisfaction in both categories, acknowledging its ships with less than 1,300 passengers. Over 6,400 travel advisor professionals and readers of TravelAge West participated in these awards, voting based on a list of Editor’s Pick recipients selected by Kenneth Shapiro, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, alongside the editorial team of TravelAge West.

The post Viking Unleashes Powerful New Tools in Enhanced Travel Advisor Portal appeared first on Travel And Tour World.”}]] [[{“value”:”Reading Time: 2 minutes Viking® unveiled its revamped Travel Advisor Portal today, aimed at equipping travel advisors with enhanced tools and resources for selling Viking’s offerings
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Today marks a landmark achievement for AirAsia Cambodia (flight code KT), as it inaugurates its first international service, connecting Phnom Penh to Kuala Lumpur. This milestone comes just three months after the airline began operations as the newest budget carrier in Cambodia.

The inaugural journey of flight KT168 was made special with a vibrant performance at Phnom Penh International Airport prior to takeoff, enhancing the travel experience for passengers. The flight left Phnom Penh at 12.25pm (GMT +7) and touched down at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (Terminal 2) at 3.15pm (GMT +8), where it was greeted with a celebratory water cannon salute.

This inaugural flight coincides with the 57th ASEAN Day celebrations this month, underscoring its significance in fostering regional connectivity. Operating seven times a week, this service not only augments the existing twice-daily flights by AirAsia Malaysia but also bolsters tourism and economic exchanges between Cambodia and Malaysia.

CEO of AirAsia Cambodia, Vissoth Nam said: “The load factor of 99 per cent for our inaugural international flight today is extremely encouraging. Since our operations began in May, we have flown 25,861 guests domestically, and with the introduction of this international route, we aim to further strengthen the bond between Cambodia and Malaysia.

“Cambodia’s tourism sector has been on a robust growth trajectory, with the government actively promoting the country as a prime tourist destination. In the first half of 2024 alone, Cambodia welcomed more than three million international tourists. We anticipate that our new route between Phnom Penh and Kuala Lumpur will further boost tourist arrivals between the two countries.

“As part of the AirAsia Group, we are dedicated to supporting Cambodia’s tourism and economic development goals, in line with Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia’s vision of establishing more direct flights from major global tourist destinations to Cambodia. Our sister company, Thai AirAsia, has  launched the Siem Reap-Phuket route with a three-weekly flight frequency starting from 29 October 2024.

“Additionally, by leveraging the Fly-Thru service, Cambodians can reach other exciting holiday destinations in Asia. We are committed to introducing more international routes across the region this year while conducting feasibility studies for destinations such as Cebu, Bali, and others to support the government’s strategy.”

AirAsia Cambodia has rapidly become a pivotal element of the regional aviation landscape, linking major Cambodian cities like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville. As a member of the AirAsia Group, the airline offers access to over 130 destinations worldwide, utilizing its strategic hubs in Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok to ensure smooth travel for its passengers.

The post New AirAsia Cambodia Flight Connects Phnom Penh and Kuala Lumpur, Aiming to Boost Tourism appeared first on Travel And Tour World.”}]] [[{“value”:”Reading Time: 2 minutes Today marks a landmark achievement for AirAsia Cambodia (flight code KT), as it inaugurates its first international service, connecting Phnom Penh to Kuala Lumpur.
The post New AirAsia Cambodia Flight Connects Phnom Penh and Kuala Lumpur, Aiming to Boost Tourism appeared first on Travel And Tour World.”}]]  Read More Travel And Tour World AIRLINE NEWS, ASIA, AirAsia Cambodia, Airline News, Cambodia, kuala lumpur, kuala lumpur international airport, malaysia, phnom penh, Tourism news, Travel News 

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Carnival Cruise Line announced today the introduction of the Pearl Cove Beach Club, set to enhance the exclusive offerings at Celebration Key, slated to open in one year. This adults-only haven will provide a premium sanctuary for guests aged 18 and up. Alongside this, Carnival has launched bookings for an array of luxurious amenities including supervillas, cabanas, daybeds, and shore excursions for those visiting Celebration Key starting July 2025.

Positioned at the western extremity of Celebration Key, the entrance to Pearl Cove Beach Club leads through a lush pathway to a spectacular 11,000-square-foot infinity pool. This pool features a broad sun-shelf, water loungers, and a swim-up bar. Guests can relax under pink-striped umbrellas on plush loungers and stylish daybeds around the pool area, while a DJ sets the mood with tropical lounge tunes. Beyond the pool lies a private beach equipped with sun loungers and beachside food and beverage service. Additionally, the club offers a sophisticated full-service restaurant boasting an upscale menu and a bar and lounge that offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

“Celebration Key will give our guests elevated options and experiences across its five portals and we’ve specifically designed Pearl Cove Beach Club as the perfect place for adults to lounge, unwind or relax in their own paradise,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Guests booked on cruises to Celebration Key can now start planning their day as we open reservations for Pearl Cove, along with daybeds, cabanas and our unique supervillas, as well as shore excursions that celebrate the culture and beauty of Grand Bahama.”

Booking is now open for the Pearl Cove Beach Club through January 2, 2026, offering three distinct packages: entry with a complimentary welcome drink, entry with an open bar (up to 10 drinks), and an all-inclusive option featuring open bar and meals from the Pearl Cove restaurant.

Carnival has also made available reservations for a variety of luxurious accommodations at Celebration Key, valid through January 2, 2026. These include eight different types of villas, cabanas, and daybeds across 14 distinct zones:

Daybeds and Water Daybeds: Positioned at Calypso Lagoon and Starfish Lagoon, these daybeds offer luxurious lounging for two, complete with pillows, a canopy, and privacy curtains. The water daybeds feature a refreshing experience on the sun-shelf of Calypso Lagoon.

Cabanas: Scattered around the freshwater lagoons of Celebration Key, these cabanas are ideal for adults and families, some situated near children’s play areas for convenient supervision. They accommodate four guests and include a sofa, armchairs, two sun loungers, a cooler with chilled water, a private locking cabinet, and privacy curtains, with fresh fruit and snacks provided on arrival.

Over-the-Lagoon Cabanas: These are located extending over the lagoons, offering the same amenities as regular cabanas plus a private sun-shelf and ceiling fan.

Large Cabanas: Surrounding the Calypso and Starfish Lagoons, these spacious structures support groups of six, featuring extensive amenities including a mini fridge, a dining area, privacy curtains, and more, with fresh fruit and lunch delivery included.

AquaBanas: Situated in the family-friendly Starfish Lagoon, these floating cabanas provide a unique, comfortable setting for eight, with a table setup allowing guests to dip their feet in the water under a shaded canopy.

Over-the-Lagoon Supervillas: These are the premier accommodation, hosting up to 10 guests with expansive seating options, a private sun-shelf with water loungers, and a slide into the lagoon. Positioned for both families and adults, these supervillas offer luxury and privacy.

Beach Supervillas: Located on the beaches, these supervillas cater to ten guests and come equipped with various amenities including sofas, armchairs, and a dining area, ensuring a luxurious beach day experience.

In addition to the accommodations, Carnival also offers a variety of shore excursions through May 2026, enhancing the experience with adventures like kayaking, snorkeling safaris, Jeep tours of Grand Bahama, and glass bottom boat tours, with more options to be introduced soon.

The post Carnival Cruise Line Expands its Celebration Key Offerings with New Pearl Cove Beach Club for Adults appeared first on Travel And Tour World.”}]] [[{“value”:”Reading Time: 3 minutes Carnival Cruise Line announced today the introduction of the Pearl Cove Beach Club, set to enhance the exclusive offerings at Celebration Key,
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Explore how understanding Mexican travelers‘ preferences can significantly boost tourism revenue and impact local economies.

Grasping the habits and inclinations of Mexican tourists is essential for boosting tourism profits. Civitatis, a leading entity in the online market for guided tours, activities, and excursions in Spanish across 160 countries, highlights the substantial financial contributions of Spanish-speaking tourists to local markets and the vast opportunities for expansion as Mexican tourists increasingly utilize digital payment options.

Spanish ranks as the second most spoken native language globally, with a staggering 750 million speakers. Mexico tops the list with 126 million native Spanish speakers.

In the year 2023, Mexico recorded an impressive 46 million international departures, showcasing the powerful impact of the Spanish-speaking demographic, particularly Mexicans, in international tourism. Recent figures from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) – an independent entity of the Mexican Government that coordinates the national system for statistical and geographical data – show a notable rise in international trips by Mexican residents. In May 2024, Mexican residents traveling abroad surged by 30% compared to May 2023, totaling 5,360,549 travelers.

Civitatis reports from its internal data a substantial 85% increase in the number of Mexican nationals traveling internationally from January to May 2024, compared to the same timeframe in 2023. This surge exceeds the national trend and highlights a preference for distant European destinations such as Italy, Spain, France, and the UK, rather than closer ones like the USA or Colombia.

Data from INEGI indicates that Mexicans spending abroad reached $895.6 million, a 21.5% increase year-over-year. The average spending per trip also rose, with Mexican tourists spending an average of $167.08 each. Civitatis adds that the average spending per person per activity increased by over 10% in 2024, further emphasizing the significant economic influence of Mexican tourists in their preferred travel locations.

Juan Rossello, Country Manager of Civitatis Mexico and Business Development USA and Central America, said: “The growing number of Mexican travellers and their spending power present a significant opportunity for the global tourism industry. By understanding their payment preferences and travel behaviours, businesses can better cater to this valuable market segment. Encouraging the adoption of digital payment methods will not only enhance the travel experience for Mexican tourists but also unlock substantial growth potential for local economies in their chosen destinations.”

A study by Fiserv, a worldwide leader in financial technology and payments, which provides services including banking, international commerce, merchant services, billing, and point-of-sale systems, underscores the need to comprehend the payment preferences of Mexican tourists. Despite the rise of digital solutions, cash remains the dominant payment method among Mexicans, with 100% favoring it, particularly for everyday or minor purchases (47% utilization). However, debit and credit cards are also popular, used by 85% and 66% of Mexicans, respectively. Digital payment methods, although less prevalent at 34% adoption, are seen as having substantial potential for growth due to their ease of use and enhanced security features.

Rossello comments on this matter: “The digital payments field in Mexico is growing annually, and we could further enhance this development with specialised, secure technology that ensures safe and fast transactions, thereby improving the variety of payment methods.” As more Mexicans adopt digital payment methods, the potential for economic growth within the tourism sector increases significantly.”

Ensuring the ‘protection and processing without delays’ of payments is crucial for fostering long-term relationships with banking and financial institutions. An omnichannel acceptance model for payment methods allows businesses to evolve and cater to the diverse needs of travelers. As digital payment adoption increases, so does the potential for significant growth in tourism revenue.”

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