Holiday & Travel

Qatar Airways marks a significant milestone in the rebound of international leisure travel with the resumption of four weekly flights to the famed holiday destination of Phuket, Thailand, starting July 1. In addition to its 12 weekly Bangkok flights, the airline will operate a total of 16 weekly flights to Thailand, providing seamless connectivity for its passengers travelling from Europe, the Middle East and United States.

As Thailand reopens to holidaymakers from around the world, fully vaccinated travellers will soon be able to visit once again whilst also enjoying the award-winning hospitality and service available on Qatar Airways and at its hub, Hamad International Airport, the first and only 5-Star COVID-19 Safety Rated Airport in the Middle East.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr Akbar Al Baker said: “With the resumption of flights to Phuket, Qatar Airways marks a significant milestone in the recovery of international tourism. We are proud to have led the industry, setting the benchmark for safety, innovation and customer service throughout the pandemic.

“We know many of our customers are eager to get back flying and return to some of their favourite holiday destinations, such as Phuket. Famed for its many exotic beaches, family friendly atmosphere, turquoise waters and delicious local cuisine, Phuket is an ideal destination for a summer getaway. We look forward to working with our partners in Thailand to support the recovery of their tourism sector.”

Launched in 2010, Phuket became Qatar Airways’ 93^rd destination at the time. The resort destination is a magnet for holidaymakers, particularly from Europe, the Middle East and United States. The route will be served by the airline’s modern and sustainable Boeing 787 Dreamliner with seating for 22 passengers in Business Class and 232 in Economy Class.

As travellers return to the skies with Qatar Airways, they can take comfort knowing that they are travelling with the only airline in the world that has, together with its state-of-the-art global hub Hamad International Airport, achieved four 5-Star Skytrax ratings – including the prestigious 5-Star Airline Rating, 5-Star Airport Rating, 5-Star COVID-19 Airline Safety Rating and 5-Star COVID-19 Airport Safety Rating.

These achievements highlight Qatar Airways’ commitment to providing its passengers with an industry-leading experience at every point of their journey, including the highest possible level of health and safety standards that safeguard the wellbeing of its passengers both on the ground and in the air.

St. Kitts and Nevis has changed its entry guidelines for travellers: only fully vaccinated travellers can now enter, effective May 29, according to Timothy Harris, prime minister. There is no timeline as to how long this regulation will be in effect.

The country changed its entry regulations due to a cluster of 16 cases of Covid-19. The first case was reported on May 19 and involved a national with no travel history. A curfew from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. daily took effect on May 25 for 14 days.

Fully vaccinated travellers must "vacation in place" at one of seven Travel Approved hotels for nine days. Those travellers staying beyond nine days must be tested on day nine; the cost of the test is $150.

Families traveling with unvaccinated children under 18 who are staying 10 days or more must vacation in place until day 14, when the child will be tested.

Vaccinated travellers must complete the Travel Authorization Form and submit a copy of their vaccination card. Travelers must also upload their negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours prior to travel.

Starting on Tuesday 08 June 2021, social enterprise travel company Charitable Travel launches a series of free virtual events to inform and inspire travel to the marvellous Mediterranean. The events aim to enthuse and reassure British holidaymakers to book travel to the Mediterranean for when travel allows, with the clear message that travel is a force for good.

Charitable Travel, the first of its kind social enterprise travel company, provides travellers with the unique opportunity to donate 5% of the cost of their holiday to a charity of their choice through a partnership with JustGiving, at no extra cost to themselves.

Taking place at 6:55pm every Tuesday throughout June on Zoom, experts from various Mediterranean destinations will share insider tips, ideal times to visit, and the best sights to see in their beautiful countries. Starting on June 8, Visit Malta and Visit Croatia will be on hand to share inspiration on trips to suit every style and budget, from family holidays, culture trips and luxury experiences, all of which can be booked through Charitable Travel - helping to 'give back better' when travelling.

Situated in the heart of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and just a short three-hour flight away, the Maltese Islands are perfect for a beach holiday or city break. Natalie Swinburne, Trade Marketing Manager UK & Ireland, Malta Tourist Office commented “We are looking forward to reconnecting with holiday-makers at the Med Month virtual event – the winding honey-coloured streets, picturesque coves and tranquil waters have missed tourists over the last year and are ready to welcome visitors back from 1st June. It's wonderful that booking a holiday can in turn support a variety of charities and we champion Charitable Travel for enabling this innovation.”

From hopping from one pristine island to another, exploring ancient sites, trying the best local food and drink, or practising some sport, Croatia has plenty to offer both in the summer months and throughout the rest of the year. Darija Reic, Director, Croatian National Tourist Office said “We are delighted to be part of Charitable Travel's Mediterranean Month. We look forward to sharing the best tips on Croatia and telling more about all we do to keep our destinations safe. With further improvement of the epidemiological situation, prioritisation of vaccination of tourism workers and a series of safety measures in place, Croatia is excited to welcome Brits back, as soon as you are ready.”

Scenic has unveiled a range of new immersive Scenic Enrich Experiences with the release of its 2022 European River Cruises Collection. From exclusive after-hours access to Bordeaux’s Les Bassins de Lumières, to canapés and a guided tour of Motorworld in Cologne. These new experiences showcase why Scenic European cruising is more than just a five-star river cruise, it’s truly all-inclusive luxury in a class of its own.

New for 2022 is an onboard Enrichment Manager for all Europe river cruises, responsible for hosting cabaret nights, cooking lessons, wine tastings, informative lectures and ensuring guests fully enjoy their experience. Some of the new experiences offered will also include an onboard glassblower demonstration, painting classes for guests sailing the Rhône and a lecture from a tulip grower in the Netherlands.

Scenic is working closely with the relevant regulatory authorities, to ensure that all health and safety protocols will be met or exceeded, based on the latest requirements to ensure the wellbeing and safety of the guests and crew.

Guests can cruise with complete confidence knowing that Scenic’s dedicated Health & Safety Steering Committee ensures all guests’ wellbeing and safety is taken care of to the highest standard. All guests must be fully vaccinated at least two weeks before departure.

New included exclusive experiences include:

• Exclusive access to Bordeaux’s immersive exhibition, Les Bassins de Lumières. Bordeaux’s cavernous former submarine base has been transformed into a vast centre of digital art. The largest of its kind in the world, the immersive exhibition features spectacular sensory light and sound displays. Scenic guests will enjoy exclusive after-hours access to enjoy the stunning displays without the crowds.
• Motorworld, Cologne – exclusive event for Scenic guests. Experience the high-octane German motoring heritage and private collection of Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher at Motorworld in Cologne. After a welcome drink with canapés, guests will enjoy an after-hours access guided tour of Motorworld. They can even put their pedal to the metal on one of the race simulators.

Scenic is currently offering savings of up to £1,500 per couple on 2022 Europe river cruises booked before 15 July 2021. Those opting to pay for their cruise in full 12 months prior to departure will save an additional 10 per cent with Super Earlybird offers when booking a balcony suite or above, plus guests can enjoy free private door-to-door chauffeur transfers. Guests can book with confidence with Scenic's Complimentary Deposit Protection Plan and Flexible Booking Policy, where guests can defer or cancel up to 60-days before departure.

According to a recent survey, as Jamaica continues to rebound from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, the island’s tourism capital is leading all other major resorts in respect of the average occupancy level in the coming weeks.

The survey commissioned by the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) indicated that Montego Bay, which is home to the largest number of hotel rooms on the island, is leading former cruise ship capital Ocho Rios and the ‘Capital of Casual’, Negril.

With the majority of the island’s smaller hoteliers being based in Negril, MoBay (Montego Bay) and Ocho Rios,

“The 8 p.m. curfew is affecting Negril, in terms of guests not being able to move from properties to restaurants and the absence of general nightlife,” said JHTA President Clifton Reader. He said the entertainment pull to Negril is no longer there and will take a while to return.

He noted that the reduction in rates by the large all-inclusives in the area was also affecting the smaller hotels in the town. Negril is home to the European market, which has not returned. They usually receive up to 30 per cent of their business from that region.

The south coast and Port Antonio were not part of the exercise. Neither was the capital city, Kingston.

Conducted May 17 and 25, 2021, the survey shows the average projected occupancy for June at 50.22 per cent, an increase of nearly 12 per cent over an April 18 survey; while the forecast shows a slight reduction to 49.81 per cent in July and 44 per cent in August.

Of note is the fact that the three summer months have moved up over 10 per cent of the projection that the study showed in April, bringing immense hope to the sector.

“The survey shows that we are confident going forward that we will see increasing numbers in our visitor arrivals to the island,” said Reader.

Despite the gains, the projected occupancy for the next six months is at an average of 43 per cent, which could signal short-term growth.

“We are literally doing 75 per cent of where we were in 2019, and that year was basically one of our best years in tourism,” Reader added.

Some 42 hotels were polled during the period. Forty per cent of the respondents were properties with less than 100 rooms, with only 10 of the ones polled being 300 rooms and above.

The President of the Spanish Government, Pedro Sánchez, presented the Digital Green Certificate at FITUR, which was held May 19-23 in Madrid, Spain. 

Also present at the event, held at the Turespaña stand, were, among other authorities and industry representatives, Reyes Maroto, Minister of Industry, Trade and Tourism; Carolina Darias, Minister of Health; and José Vicente de los Mozos, President of IFEMA MADRID.

Sánchez explained that yesterday the European Union finally approved the Digital Green Certificate, which will be called "European Union COVID Digital Certificate", and showed his conviction that "the implementation of this certificate, as well as the relaxation of restrictions on non-essential travel from other countries will allow us to have a much better summer than 2020". 

And is that with the digital certificate, which will be launched on July 1, "Spain will resume all its activities safely, and we will achieve mobility within the European Union this summer".

Sánchez explained what the Digital Green Certificate consists of, on which the European Union has been working for several months with the aim of reactivating international tourism. This document, which will be issued by the Ministry of Health or by the Autonomous Communities, will allow safe travel in the European Union and will certify that a person has been vaccinated against Covid-19, or has a negative result of a diagnostic test or has overcome the disease.

The President of the Government also announced that "today the ministerial order has been published that allows the entry into Spain of travelers from safe non-EU countries, without restrictions and without health requirements, among which are the following: Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Israel, South Korea, Thailand, Rwanda, China, as well as the United Kingdom and Japan." 

In addition, "as of June 7, tourists from all countries with which there is not full freedom of movement, including the United States, will be able to enter Spain as long as they have a certificate of having received the complete vaccination regimen".

Qatar Airways’ resumption of four-weekly Atlanta flights on 1 June marks the full return of the airline’s pre-pandemic U.S. network increasing its gateways to 12, two more than it operated before COVID-19. The airline will also be increasing frequencies to Boston, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Seattle offering more flexible travel options for its passengers with more than 85 weekly flights across the United States. These increased services will provide enhanced connectivity to several of the airline’s global leisure destinations including Cape Town, Maldives, Seychelles and Zanzibar, along with other key traffic flows in Africa, Asia and the Middle East.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “Despite the challenges of the pandemic, Qatar Airways has remained committed to its passengers and trade partners in the United States, maintaining continuous services while rebuilding its U.S. network and launching two new destinations - San Francisco and Seattle. We have also strengthened our presence in the U.S. through strategic partnerships with Alaska Airlines, American Airlines and JetBlue that have enabled us to connect to more points in the United States than any other airline, providing U.S. travellers the most convenient way to travel internationally this summer.

“As more of our passengers return to the skies, they can take comfort knowing that they are travelling with the only airline in the world that has, together with our state-of-the-art global hub Hamad International Airport, achieved four 5-Star Skytrax ratings – including the prestigious 5-Star Airline Rating, 5-Star Airport Rating, 5-Star COVID-19 Airline Safety Rating and 5-Star COVID-19 Airport Safety Rating. We are proud to have lead the industry during this difficult period, setting the benchmark for innovation, safety and customer service, and look forward to welcoming our customers back on board as they plan their summer travels.”

Americas Network Enhancements:

·         Atlanta – Four weekly flights resuming 1 June

·         Boston – Increasing to four weekly flights from 3 July

·         Miami – Increasing to five weekly flights from 7 July

·         New York – Increasing to double daily flights from 21 July

·         Philadelphia – Increasing to five weekly flights from 2 July

·         Sao Paulo - Increasing to double daily flights from 6 August

·         San Francisco – Increasing to daily flights from 2 July

·         Seattle – Increasing to daily flights from 8 July

Qatar Airways operates one of the youngest, most fuel-efficient fleets in the sky, and is committed to delivering a sustainable and environmentally-responsible travel experience for its customers. Due to COVID-19’s impact on travel demand, the airline has grounded its fleet of Airbus A380s as it is not environmentally justifiable to operate such a large, four-engine aircraft in the current market. Qatar Airways has also recently launched a new programme that enables passengers to voluntarily offset the carbon emissions associated with their journey at the point of booking.

A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways was named ‘World’s Best Airline’ by the 2019 World Airline Awards, managed by the international air transport rating organisation Skytrax. It was also named ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’, ‘World’s Best Business Class’, and ‘Best Business Class Seat’, in recognition of its ground-breaking Business Class experience, Qsuite. Qsuite is available on flights to more than 40 destinations including Bangkok, Cape Town, Maldives, and Singapore.

National tourism agency VisitBritain/VisitEngland is bringing tourism industry leaders together at its annual review event on Tuesday 25 May to set out its priorities to support the sector to recover and rebuild.

The ‘hybrid’ virtual and in-person event, being held during English Tourism Week, will reflect on the agency’s work and its priorities for the year ahead to aid the recovery of domestic and international tourism, stimulating demand and supporting the rebuilding of a more resilient, sustainable and accessible industry.

VisitBritain’s latest forecasts show a slow recovery with domestic tourism spending estimated this year at £51.4 billion, just over half of the £91.6 billion in 2019. Last year alone saw about two-thirds of the value wiped off the domestic tourism industry, a £58 billion loss to the economy.

Its forecast for inbound tourism spending in the UK this year is £6.2 billion, less than a quarter of the £28.4 billion in 2019.

Tourism Minister Nigel Huddleston said: "Britain’s tourism industry is a huge driver of our economy but has faced many challenges over the past year.

“We've provided more than £25 billion in support, and I have been impressed by VisitBritain/VisitEngland and the wider sector for its agile and innovative response, coming up with new ways to provide hospitality and entertainment while maintaining social distancing and protecting people's safety.

"I look forward to working closely with them all as we build back better to create a sustainable, productive and resilient industry."
British Tourist Authority Chairman Lord Patrick McLoughlin said:

“When COVID-19 arrived on our shores, it hit our industry first and hardest. Successful destinations and businesses across the country saw their cash flow dry up and had to close their doors to visitors. Inbound visitor spending dropped by a staggering 78% in 2020 compared to the previous year, and domestic spending by 63%, resulting in an estimated loss to the economy of £285 million per day from tourism. The sector faced an unprecedented challenge”.

Lord McLoughlin said that the UK Government’s support measures including the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, the VAT cut for hospitality businesses and the business rates holiday were a lifeline helping many businesses survive and keeping people in jobs. As the months went on and pubs, hotels, attractions and events remained closed or found social distancing meant they could not open economically, cash reserves began to run dry.

During the last year VisitBritain/VisitEngland had realigned its focus to rally behind the industry, directing efforts to where it could deliver the most value, stepping up its support for businesses and destinations from providing consumer insights and actionable data to facilitating industry and Government dialogues and developing the ‘We’re Good to Go’ reassurance scheme. When possible it had run marketing campaigns to build demand, developing assets that could be shared across the industry.

Lord McLoughlin said that while businesses had now started to reopen with hopes for a better summer and autumn, this was only the beginning and there was much more to do as the industry began to rebuild. The agency was also looking forward to the publication of the Tourism Recovery Plan, which will set out the role the UK Government will play in accelerating the tourism sector's recovery from COVID-19.

“Tourism has a proven track record as a growth sector. Worth £127 billion to the economy, the industry is the UK’s third largest service export and provides jobs for more than 3.1 million people. As a sector, we have a lot of experience in levelling-up, supporting local economies right across the country.

“By working together to drive demand and build back visitor spend as quickly as possible we can emerge from the pandemic a more resilient, sustainable, inclusive and innovative industry."

The tourism agency last week launched a £5 million ‘Escape the Everyday – Enjoy the UK this Summer’ campaign to build back domestic demand with a focus on cities and city visitor attractions as well as regional gateways which have been particularly hard hit by the lack of international visitors and that rely on overseas visitors and their spending.

With international travel restarting and plenty of pent-up demand from people around the world to get travelling again, VisitBritain’s focus is to make sure they choose Britain, whether as a place to do business, to site their convention or to explore on holiday.

“Our international competitors have been readying their battle strategies to compete for the return of international tourists. Nevertheless, we have a lot on our side. Not only are our nations rich in culture, heritage, and experiences that are unique to the UK, but the major events taking place here next year are set to be significant tourism draws. The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, HM The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and Festival UK 2022 all present opportunities to promote Britain globally.”

“Tourism is a critical industry for our country, delivering jobs and economic growth across the nations and regions and strengthening our place on the world stage. We will continue to work with the UK Government, as it sets out its recovery plan and ambitions for tourism, and across the industry, to cement the recovery and the future of one of this country’s greatest industries,” said Lord McLoughlin.

UK Home Secretary Priti Patel has said that a new border scheme requiring visitors to apply for an electronic permit will make the UK safer. She also argued it will make it easier to count those coming to the UK.

Under the plan, all visitors without a visa or immigration status will have to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before coming to the UK. But Labour accused the government of incompetence over immigration.

Passengers required to get a permit under the new system would include those travelling to the UK for a short stay or transiting - changing planes - in the country. People wishing to work in the UK or stay in the country for a long period of time - for example over six months - would need to obtain a visa, rather than an ETA.

The Home Office says the new system would allow automated and early security checks to take place to stop foreign criminals arriving in the country, with applicants only allowed to travel once they have been cleared. The department also says the new scheme will make it easier to count the numbers coming into the country and notes that past migration figures have underestimated the true figure.

For example, the government estimated three million Europeans lived in the UK, but more than five million ended up applying to the EU settlement scheme. Around 30 million people are expected to apply for ETAs each year.

The new scheme is modelled on the US Electronic System for Travel Authorization which has been in place since 2009, while the EU is planning to introduce its own version - European Travel Information and Authorisation System - next year. The announcement comes as reports say the numbers of migrants crossing the English Channel by boat are higher this year than last, despite an agreement signed with France in November to increase border security and prevent migrant crossings.

Ms Patel is expected to give further details of her Legal Migration and Border Control Strategy today. Speaking ahead of that announcement, she said: "Now we have taken back control and ended free movement, security is at the very heart of our immigration strategy.

"Our new approach will make it easier to identify potential threats before they reach the border." Labour's shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds accused the government of being incompetent, adding that it had broken the asylum system.

"If you look at 2014, 87% of asylum claims were being dealt with within six months, that figure had fallen to 20% by 2019, and what did the government do? They got rid of performance targets," he said. Mr Thomas-Symonds said there "should be" performance targets for civil servants.

The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism has big plans to strengthen its position as a leading Caribbean destination for marine tourism.

Speaking after the St. Thomas Yacht Club Invitational Regatta, Joseph Boschulte, USVI Commissioner of Tourism, said the department’s focus on welcoming mariners throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has returned strong dividends for the destination.

“Despite numerous pandemic-related challenges, we have leveraged the talent and creativity of our team to sharpen our focus on our incredible marine and charter yacht industry,” said Commissioner Boschulte, who believes the U.S. Virgin Islands will “take full advantage of our natural resources and assets to deliver world-class experiences for visitors arriving on our shores.”

He said the Territory had already begun to strengthen its marine tourism offerings when the pandemic provided additional opportunities to tap into the charter yacht industry. In 2019, the direct contribution to the U.S. Virgin Islands economy made by charter and sport-fishing vessels was estimated at approximately $45 million.

“We forecast the 2020-2021 numbers to show significant growth due to the large number of visiting vessels,” he disclosed.

An important development this past winter season was the introduction of The Moorings, a premier global yacht charter company, to the charter operations base on St. Thomas.

The U.S. Virgin Islands has an across-the-board commitment to the industry with several agencies coordinating to offer a concierge experience for the marine industry, whether for leisure, business or competitions.

The Department of Tourism will continue to support events such as fishing tournaments, the Virgin Islands Charter Yacht Show and the annual St. Thomas International Regatta, and has a robust media hospitality program, which attracts national media to experience and cover the destination’s marine offerings and events.

“Because of the diligent adherence to public health protocols, including our Travel Screening Portal, we have been successful in delivering marine events in the Territory over the past year,” said Commissioner Boschulte, who saluted USVI Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and Lieutenant Governor Tregenza Roach for their vision to position the Territory's marine sector upfront and center. He also congratulated local partners such as the Virgin Islands Professional Charter Association and the St. Thomas Yacht Club for their efforts to ensure that residents and visitors have a safe and healthy marine experience.

The Department of Tourism developed and maintains a designated webpage that showcases the Territory’s marine value proposition. Upcoming events include the International Optimist Regatta (June 14 to 20, 2021), the Virgin Islands Charter Yacht Show (November 7 to 10, 2021), and the inaugural Caribbean Charter Yacht Show at Yacht Haven Grande – St. Thomas (December 9-12, 2021).

The Commissioner also noted that the Department of Tourism is collaborating with the Office of the Governor to create a St. Croix-specific marine program, with its own dedicated marketing platform.

With rules around international travel still uncertain but hospitality now opening up even further, Brits are seeking out new ways to get their holiday fix as they plan ‘staycations’ around the UK.

Research by Auto Trader, the UK’s largest digital automotive marketplace, has revealed that almost two thirds (62%) of people are planning to holiday in the UK this year, bringing a much-welcomed boost to the British hospitality sector. Country escapes have proved most popular, being the choice of two fifths (42%) of holidaymakers, followed by a third (33%) hoping for a beach getaway.

Since lockdown, Auto Trader has seen accelerated growth in page visits for wheeled accommodation, with visits up 148% YoY for motorhomes and 117% for caravans – making staycations the likely choice for many. However, this has prompted fears of major traffic jams and queues on the roads during peak holiday season as the nation’s staycationers disperse across the UK in droves.

Over half (53%) of people said they’ll be holidaying with their family this year, seeing staycations as a chance to reconnect with loved ones after long periods apart. Motorhomes and caravans safely offer the chance to reunite, as separate households can park over two metres apart and enjoy time outside together.

Three quarters (77%) of those surveyed are also planning to take their dog away with them. Over 3.2 million pets were bought by the British public during the pandemic, and over 60% of motorhome and caravan buyers now have their own pup. Staycations allow travellers to leave the puppy passport at home and enjoy a holiday with their four-legged friend.

Auto Trader’s Editorial Director, Erin Baker, says: “More than 2 million people enjoy holidays in caravans and motorhomes each year in the UK – a figure that is set to rise this year due to the third wave of COVID-19 across the EU – so it’s no surprise those looking to own their own caravan or motorhome has increased.

“Holidaymakers will have to be extra savvy though when planning their trips, as sites are set to sell out quickly. Heavy congestion is likely when staycationers hit the roads around peak times, particularly the second May and August bank holidays and school summer holidays, so road trips should be planned in advance and scenic detours considered.”

The importance of unlocking the potential of investments for growing African tourism was highlighted as leaders from across the sector met virtually for the 2021 edition of Investour.

Held during the FITUR International Tourism Trade Fair, the 12th edition of the Forum for Tourism Investment and Business (Investour) united government representatives alongside experts from international organizations and from the private sector. Once again, the event was co-organized by Casa Africa, FITUR and the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), building on the latter’s 2030 Agenda for Africa.

This year, the focus was on the importance of promoting sustainable investments to help the sector recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. On the agenda were the role of public-private partnerships, building resilience, and promoting innovation at every step of the broad tourism value chain.

A roundtable discussion on “Revitalizing Tourism Post-COVID-19”, explored ways to identify and reach new markets and develop new tourism products. Contributing were Mouhamed Faouzou, Technical Advisor to the Minister of Tourism and Air Transport of Senegal, Dr. Alfonso Vegara, Founder and President of Fundación Metrópoli, and Alberto Virella Gomes, Ambassador-at-Large for the Africa Plan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Senegal.

This was followed by a series of investment webinars led by UNWTO experts, with a special focus on sustainability and capacity development. In a message to the Investor delegates, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili stressed the importance of government-initiated Ease of Doing Business reforms and invited delegates to join UNWTO for its 64th Commission for Africa and the 2nd UNWTO Global Tourism Investment Forum in Africa, both to be held in Cabo Verde this September.

Many Britons are rushing to spend their summer holidays in Portugal, given the country's inclusion on the UK government's green list. As of now some beaches in Portugal have reopened, including the two in Vilamoura - Praia de Vilamoura and Praia da Rocha Baixinha.
Isolete Correia, Director of Marina de Vilamoura, comments: "We are thrilled to see locals and visitors enjoying the beaches in Vilamoura once more. Last year we contributed with the Portuguese government to help define and set safety standards for Covid-secure beach use."

The news of beaches reopening comes as the Algarve is once more flagged up as the jewel in Portugal's crown, maintaining all 91 of its Blue Flags in 2021. The region is proudly flying 87 Blue Flags on its beaches with Vilamoura's two beaches – Praia de Vilamoura and Praia da Rocha Baixinha – also proudly flying Blue Flags.

In total, Portugal's beaches have racked up an impressive 372 Blue Flags (12 more than last year), with the quality of its marinas, recreational ports and environmental vessels combining to place Portugal sixth out of the 53 countries taking part in the Blue Flag scheme. Blue flags helped contribute to the country being named the World's Best Beach Destination at the World Travel Awards last year.

English Tourism Week is fast approaching with this year’s week dedicated to showing support for tourism businesses and destinations across the sector as they reopen and start to rebuild.

Coordinated by VisitEngland and taking place from 22 to 31 May, English Tourism Week is an annual celebration of the tourism industry, highlighting its economic importance to local economies and promoting the innovation, quality and range of products and services on offer to encourage more domestic breaks.

It comes as the tourism agency’s latest forecasts show that domestic tourism spending is estimated this year of £51.4 billion, just over half of the £91.6 billion in 2019.

Last year alone saw about two-thirds of the value wiped off the domestic tourism industry, a £58 billion loss to the economy.

Tourism Minister Nigel Huddleston said: "The tourism sector has undoubtedly faced enormous challenges over the past year. This is why we have provided over £25 billion in support to date, including the unprecedented VAT cut.

"Tourism and hospitality businesses across the country have continually impressed me with their ability to adapt over the past year and I know they're all ready to welcome us back. English tourism has so much to offer, from rural retreats to city breaks. I can't wait to get out there exploring and I urge everyone to join me in supporting our fantastic tourism sector by taking a domestic holiday over the coming months."

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: “Our annual event to celebrate and champion English tourism has never been more important, providing a timely opportunity to show the outstanding offer here on our doorstep as we head in to the critical summer season and to support local businesses and visitor attractions, who have lost months of vital trading, as they reopen and rebuild.

“By highlighting the quality and sheer diversity of tourism products, destinations and experiences across England we also hope people will consider an extra holiday at home this year, exploring somewhere new, revisiting a favourite attraction or taking a city-break. With international tourists slower to return this is also the year to rediscover the crown jewels of English tourism in our vibrant city centres.

“Millions of jobs and local economies rely on tourism and businesses and destinations have been working flat-out, innovating and adapting to safely welcome visitors back and making sure they have a great experience. They will be very pleased to see you.”

In the lead-up to English Tourism Week and throughout VisitEngland is encouraging people to share photos and social media posts to show support for the sector using #EnglishTourismWeek21. VisitEngland has also produced toolkits and a series of posters for tourism businesses and destinations to download and get involved in the week, promoting their local products and services, attractions and experiences.

VisitEngland and local destinations are also asking MPs, local authorities, the UK Government and other stakeholders to get involved and show their support by visiting local businesses and attractions during the week.

VisitEngland’s latest consumer sentiment research has shown slow but steady gains in consumer confidence in taking domestic trips from late spring and rising through summer. Twenty per cent of people surveyed were confident in the ability to take a domestic overnight trip in May, rising to 38% in June, 45% in July, 55% in August and 61% from September onwards. This demonstrates the importance of extending the tourism season this year and that there is still a job to do to boost consumer confidence.

More than 27,000 businesses across England have signed up to VisitEngland’s ‘We’re Good To Go’ industry standard and consumer mark, reassuring customers, staff and local residents that the correct procedures and processes are in place to welcome them back safely.

VisitEngland’s latest research also shows that while bookings for domestic trips for spring had accelerated, with just under half of domestic trips planned between May and June booked, the summer months are slower with just over one in five trips between July to September booked, suggesting a ‘wait and see’ approach.

VisitEngland is set to launch the next phase of its Escape the Everyday campaign in the coming weeks, encouraging domestic breaks with a focus also on cities and city visitor attractions as well as regional gateways, which have been particularly hard hit by the lack of international visitors and that rely on overseas visitors and their spending.

Tourism is one of England’s largest and most valuable industries, supporting hundreds of thousands of businesses, employing more than 2.6 million people and usually generating more than £106 billion a year for the English economy.

Costa Rica's internationally renowned green escapes are likely to suffer through a second year of costly tourist hesitancy as the spread of the pandemic intensifies in the Central American nation, further battering the key travel sector.

Amid an April surge of COVID-19 infections, hospital beds are scarce in the tropical country. Its infection rate last week surpassed even tragedy-struck India and Brazil, according to data from Johns Hopkins University. Given the lack of widespread testing, the real figures could be even worse.

Costa Rica's hoteliers and other travel businesses expected increasingly vaccinated travellers from top markets in North American and Europe to inject an infusion of cash for the industry after record-low visits last year, but that does not seem likely anymore.

Costa Rica's tourism sector in pre-pandemic 2019 was estimated at about $5 billion, or about 8.5% of the country's GDP.

The central bank forecasts less than 800,000 foreign tourists visiting Costa Rica this year, which would mark a more than 20% slide from last year. And last year saw only a third of the international travellers who visited in 2019, or about 1.01 million, which was the fewest in more than two decades.

During the first three months of this year, which is typically high season, visits were down a whopping 76% compared to the same period last year as lockdown-weary travellers with money to spend resisted the urge to vacation among the country's vibrant wildlife and pristine beaches.

Tourism Minister Gustavo Segura acknowledged a worsening scenario. "We trust we'll be able to control the situation for our population soon, but we can't deny that some people will decide to postpone visits," he said, though he stressed he did not have official figures on cancellations.

He argued the country's famed eco-tourism naturally promotes outdoor social distancing, and pitched the travel sector's high standards for hygiene.

To bolster his point, the minister pointed to official data for the first four months of the year showing that less than 1% of tourists tested positive for COVID-19 as they exited the country.

The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism’s Division of Festivals has pioneered the return of in-person Carnival events while prioritizing public health safety and the importance of getting the COVID-19 vaccine.

The 2021 Carnival Virgin Islands ‘1 Night, 1 Fête’ took place seaside on Friday at The West Indian Company Limited (WICO) dock on St. Thomas, and featured leading U.S. Virgin Islands musical groups Cool Session Brass, Legacy Band and Spectrum Band. 2021 International Soca Monarch Farmer Nappy of Trinidad and Tobago headlined the ‘Vaccination Jam’, which accommodated 200 vaccinated patrons and stressed compliance with COVID-19 protocols, including physical distancing, mask-wearing and proper handwashing hygiene.  

Envisioned by the Department of Tourism, ‘1 Night, 1 Fête’ was executed in consultation with the Office of the Governor and the Department of Health to promote a ‘Vaccinate to Party Safe’ initiative to help reach Governor Albert Bryan Jr.’s goal of vaccinating 50,000 Virgin Islanders by July 1. ‘1 Night, 1 Fête’ was also an opportunity for musicians to showcase their talents after more than a year of pandemic restrictions, which have impacted their ability to perform.

“I just want allyu to know, St. Thomas, you know, it have leaders and it have followers … the whole world going and follow this party, vaccinate party,” said Farmer Nappy, while speaking with party-goers during an action-packed 40-minute set. The wildly popular soca artist also endorsed the talent and professionalism of U.S. Virgin Islands artists: “I am about to go Orlando, Atlanta … all these places to perform. If there were a band, this is the band (Spectrum Band) that traveling with me on tour.”

Only vaccinated patrons were permitted to enter the hot-ticket event, and proceeds will be going toward relief efforts for St. Vincent and the Grenadines, which has been been adversely impacted by multiple eruptions of the La Soufrière volcano in recent weeks. Virgin Islands Lottery has also contributed $5,000.

“We are excited that culture, music and carnival are alive and kicking in the USVI. This is a testament to all Virgin Islanders for taking public health safety seriously during the pandemic,” said Joseph Boschulte, USVI Commissioner of Tourism.

“We have been on top of Caribbean tourism, we are on the cutting edge of hosting virtual and now in-person social gatherings, and our team will continue to leverage our creative talent to move our destination forward,” he added. Emphasizing the importance of getting vaccinated, Commissioner Boschulte said, “We can show the world that you can enjoy a vacation, or enjoy a fête, and be safe.”

Lieutenant Governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands Tregenza Roach, who attended the event, spoke of the incomparable energy of Carnival, and the power of having a safe event for people to celebrate their culture and feel rejuvenated in difficult times. “I think Carnival brings a certain energy, a certain release, a certain soulfulness that we always should regard," he commented.

Carnival Virgin Islands also featured three “Festival Arts Dialogues”, which discussed the stories behind Carnival celebrations in the U.S. Virgin Islands. They included “Road to Royalty”, “Calypsonians” and “Costume Workshop”, which aired on local PBS affiliate WTJX and streamed on the Division of Festivals’ online platforms.

Ian Turnbull, Director of the Division of Festivals, thanked the Government of the Virgin Islands as well as the sponsors for supporting the Division’s vision. “Last year we were virtual, and now we are here with something new … I believe this could be the blueprint for the Caribbean,” he said, adding that next steps include producing more events across the U.S. Virgin Islands for residents and visitors alike. 

Future Division of Festivals events include the 68th St. John Celebration (June 28 - July 4, 2021); the 69th Crucian Christmas Festival (Dec. 4, 2021 - Jan. 9, 2022); and the 70th Carnival Virgin Islands on St. Thomas (April 2 - May 1, 2022).

Sponsors for “1 Night, 1 Fête” included Coors Light and Hennessy, which are distributed by Bellows International and West Indies Company; Virgin Islands Lottery; FirstBank; Maternal and Child Health (USVI Department of Health); Virgin Islands Next Generation Network (viNGN); and The West Indian Company Limited.