WTM Responsible Tourism Award: Who are the 12 finalists?
On the list of finalists this year is a game lodge in Botswana, a fynbos protected area in South Africa, a social enterprise in Vietnam, a tour operator working to benefit local communities in Limpopo, a European city, a group of guest cottages in Kangaroo Valley in Australia and a company enabling travellers to walk from village to village in rural India. The 12 finalists now need to wait until the Awards ceremony at WTM London to discover who this year’s chosen leaders are.
Six “Leaders in Demonstrating Responsible Tourism Impact” will be announced at WTM London on World Responsible Tourism Day. They will each represent the company, organisation or destination that the judges consider has shown the most significant impact across five categories, each of which is tied to one or more of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals.
For 2017, these categories are: Best for Carbon Reduction, Best for Accommodation, Best Community Initiative, Best for Communication, Best Tour Operator, and Best for Poverty Reduction.
2017 is the first time that the awards have been run by WTM, which takes over from responsibletravel.com after thirteen successful years. This year, the awards will be presented by Tanya Beckett, who presents Talking Business on the BBC News Channel.
Commenting on the standard of the finalists, Chair of Judges, Emeritus Professor Harold Goodwin said:
“This year we have discovered some new and innovative approaches to demonstrating the contributions which tourism makes to sustainable development.
“I was chair of the judges for the 13 years of the World Responsible Tourism Awards organised by responsibletravel.com. When they decided to cease running the Awards I was delighted that WTM London stepped up to continue them.
“This is a major year of change with a new organiser and a focus in the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development on the UN’S Sustainable Development Goals – we shall be publishing some great examples of how businesses have met the new challenge of transparently reporting their impacts and communicating them to stakeholders”.
The winners will be announced on Wednesday 8th November 2017 at a ceremony at WTM London, where over 500 tourism professionals, tourism ministers and media representatives are expected to attend.
WTM London, Senior Exhibition Director, and fellow judge Simon Press said: “Once again the World Responsible Tourism Awards will be a key part of the opening of World Responsible Tourism Day at WTM London. The stories of the winners and their achievements act as a benchmark and inspiration for what the global travel and tourism industry can achieve in responsible tourism practice.”
The WTM Responsible Tourism Day – Opening and Awards takes place from 11:00-13:00 on 8 November in WTM Global Stage – AS1050
The full list of 2017 finalists is:
v Chobe Game Lodge
v Crystal Creek
v Grootbos
v Green Tourism Business Scheme
v Kumarakom
v Ol Pejeta
v Marine Dynamics
v Sapa o Chau
v Ljubljana
v Transfrontier Parks Destinations
v TUI Cruises
v Village Ways
Speechless: UNWTO and WTTC on Las Vegas tourism mass murder
It’s surprising the worlds largest tourism organizations and leaders in world tourism, UNWTO and WTTC did not react very much to one of the toughest two weeks in travel and tourism for a long time. WTTC issued this statement on their website,:
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is deeply shocked and saddened by the shooting in Las Vegas earlier today. Gloria Guevara, President & CEO, WTTC, said: “I send my heartfelt condolences to all the friends and families of the victims and those hurt in this callous attack in Las Vegas. We stand strong and united with the people of Las Vegas as they go through these difficult times. On behalf of the Travel & Tourism sector we offer our full support to the city, one of the United States’ most thriving tourist destinations as WTTC experienced during our Global Summit in 2011, as it will come to terms with the aftermath of this attack.”
There is a lot going on. Caribbean, Mexico, Guam, South Korea, Catalonia and now Los Vegas – tourism is under global attack. Challenging times are emerging after the first Caribbean Crisis committee met at the UNWTO General Assembly in Chengdu, China last month.
Maybe it’s time for a global tourism crisis committee to be formed to address such problems and coordinate with UNWTO, WTTC and the many other important organizations.
Not one country issued a travel warning for the United States. It can only be hoped this is a new trendsetter and the United States also will refrain from issuing travel warnings at future terror incidents in Europe or other regions. Travel warnings won’t resolve the issue, and they would make it worse. The world should push the US for gun control. This is a problem getting completely out of hand. What could be the logical reason for the 2nd Amendment in the year 2017?
Many organizations did have something to say, including the International Nightlife Association, said they strongly condemn the shooting occurred near the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Nevada (U.S.A.). At the same time, we express our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims in this tragic moment as they seek to recover from this deeply disturbing tragedy. For this reason, the International Nightlife Association will lead a moment of silence at the International Nightlife Congress to be held next week in Ibiza (Spain) in order to honor its victims and as a signal of protest as the nightlife image has been unfairly and cowardly targeted once again with innocent people involved.
Once more, after the attacks in Bataclan in Paris, Club Pulse in Orlando and Club Reina in Istanbul the nightlife sector has been hit once again with a cowardly act of violence involving firearms. We stand here in moral indignation and are, at the same time, filled with a huge sense of powerlessness since at least 50 innocent people have been killed and at least 400 others seriously injured while enjoying nightlife, generating a false sensation that nightlife is unsafe when it is not, as the tragic events have been due to an unavoidable cowardly attack.
At the same time we feel great indignation as events like these seriously damage the image and the prestige of the territory where they happen, which is unfair but a constant reality. Las Vegas, where we celebrate our international congress alternatively every two years, is precisely one of the safest and most pregistous places for nightlife entertainment in the world.
Next week is IMEX time. IMEX America and Meeting and Incentive travel professionals from around the globe will meet in Las Vegas.
eTN is standing by at our stand in Las Vegas for feedback.
IBM to present at Caribbean State of the Tourism Industry Conference
The American multinational technology company IBM will present at the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO)’s State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) which opens in Grenada next week.
IBM’s global industry leader responsible for hospitality and travel related services, Greg Land, will be part of a panel which explores ways in which the Caribbean can use technology creatively to enhance the visitor experience and successfully sell destinations.
As part of his presentation Mr. Land will focus on Watson, IBM’s artificial intelligence (AI) platform, and how Caribbean destinations and businesses can utilise AI in decision making and to engage visitors.
The session, entitled, Active Engagement: Riding the Technological Wave, will also include presentations by Amrita Gurney, the head of marketing at CrowdRiff, a Canadian visual marketing platform used by tourism brands, and Oliver Gale, the founder of Bitt, a Barbados-based financial company that uses blockchain technology for online money transfers using any form of currency.
This session runs from 9:00 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. on Friday 13 October, the final day of the conference, which will have Super Bowl winner Dorsey Levin as the keynote speaker.
“I will focus on rapid rebound and will also touch on how to take control of life without excuses and how to navigate successfully through stressful situations and keep moving forward. I would like nothing more than to motivate and inspire delegates to get back on track after the damage caused by the hurricanes,” Levens said.
The conference has as its theme, Supercharging the Brand: Meeting the Needs of the New Explorers, and in the wake of the catastrophic impact of Hurricanes Irma and Maria on some member countries, the CTO is adding a special session to the SOTIC programme that will focus on how to recover and rebuild after a major disaster.
The four-hour session on Thursday 12 October is designed to explore and examine the issues and key recommendations to be considered as the Caribbean rebuilds after the monstrous category five storms, in particular, or other natural disasters it might face in the future.
It will focus on the economic cost of the disasters, including potential impact on gross domestic product, employment, the cost to rebuild and recovery time.
The State of the Tourism Industry Conference is being organised by the CTO in collaboration with the Grenada Tourism Authority and Grenada’s ministry of tourism, and will be held from 10-13 October at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort. The conference will be preceded by business meetings on 9 and 10 October.
Other key conference sessions include Infusing Dynamism in Caribbean Tourism, Who are the New Explorers, Business Models that Rock, Turning Our Waters Into Goldmines – Investing in the Blue Economy, and Spicing Up the Caribbean Brand.
The highly anticipated tourism youth congress and a Stakeholders Speak Out session are also part of the program.
PATA Micronesia Chapter Wins 2017 Award of Excellence
The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) announced the 2017 Award of Excellence was presented to the PATA Micronesia Chapter for their outstanding work promoting the region. PATA Micronesia was recognized for their unique approach to marketing the diverse and expansive region, which encompasses 2,100 islands spread over 2.9 million square miles of Pacific Ocean, “the blue continent.”
The Micronesia Chapter was recognized for its unique creation of interactive experiences at major global travel trade shows in core markets, developing face-to-face personal interaction with potential visitors and travel planners. The chapter also capitalized on focused use of digital and social media campaigns to share Micronesia’s diverse culture, hospitable people, and incredible natural beauty.
PATA Micronesia is the only chapter in the internationally acclaimed organization to represent more than one destination, which includes the islands groups of the Northern Marianas, Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshalls, and Guam. “The PATA Micronesia Chapter, led by Guam, USA, is amongst the most community engaged chapters within the organization,” said Dr. Mario Hardy, PATA CEO.
“In the true spirit of PATA, they regularly reach out to their various constituents, providing assistance and guidance in their endeavor to promote the responsible and sustainable development of the travel and tourism industry. Furthermore, they also regularly engage with PATA members globally and other chapters in their efforts to further the agenda of the entire organization,” said Hardy.
The Chapter was recognized for its creativity in representing the region globally, winning booth display awards and capturing mass audience appeal with cultural presentations and training opportunities for travel industry professionals. PATA Micronesia also expanded into new markets in 2016, like the LGBTQ travel community, building on Guam and the CNMI’s recognition of same-sex marriage.
“It is an honor to be recognized by PATA for the work we do in Micronesia,” said PATA Micronesia Chapter Chairwoman Pilar Laguaña. “PATA Micronesia is more than the only Chapter representing multiple destinations, we’re spread over millions of miles of ocean. It’s a challenge to effectively capture and share with the world what makes each island destination so special in a single, unified message. This award is an affirmation to our Chapter that our efforts are recognized for their effectiveness in representing our vast, diverse region.”
This is the third Award of Excellence bestowed on the PATA Micronesia Chapter. The Chapter was first recognized in 2004, for its commitment to communication strategies within Micronesia, and again in 2010, for its use of social media and impressive branding strategies.
About PATA Micronesia
The PATA Micronesia chapter membership is comprised of national and state tourism offices, hotels/motels/accommodations, airlines, car rental companies, media, optional tours, restaurants/bars/nightclubs, retail/wholesale outlets, travel agencies, and more. The organization assists in the development of the regional tourism industry with strategies that are environmentally sensitive, respect Micronesian cultures, adhere to high operational standards and provide opportunity for education, training and gainful employment among the resident populations of its Micronesian membership, For more information about PATA Micronesia, visitwww.MicronesiaTour.com or contact the PATA Micronesia Chapter Treasurer Ms. Judy Torres at[email protected].
CTO and CHTA issue Caribbean post-hurricane update
The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) continue to receive updates from member countries and hotels regarding the recovery and rebuilding efforts following the impact of Hurricanes Irma and Maria in the northern Caribbean and Leeward Islands.
The CTO Relief Fund (a 501 c3) helps families and countries rebuild after hurricanes, with monies raided being sent directly to CTO-member destinations affected by the hurricanes.
Anguilla
The government has announced that recovery from Hurricane Irma is proceeding at an extraordinary pace. Phone and internet communications have been restored to most parts of the island. Roads and beaches have been cleared, there are no longer queues at petrol stations, and grocery stores are well provisioned. Many local restaurants have reopened, along with a number of hotels that are housing relief workers and UK government officials. Significant progress is also being made on the restoration of the electricity grid; power lines to many villages on the central line through Crocus Hill and The Valley have been restored in the three weeks following Irma.
Chief minister, Victor Banks, has announced that plans are in place for the expansion of the Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA) and the reconstruction of the Blowing Point ferry terminal.
The British government has indicated that in short order they will be responding to the need to expand the airport. A team from the British Corps of Royal Engineers will oversee the project to extend the runway by 600 feet from its current 5,400 feet. The airport will remain open to private and commercial aircraft during this planned expansion period.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, the terminal at Blowing Point will be demolished. Architectural plans have already been commissioned for the design and construction of the new facility. Construction is expected to begin shortly, at which point a more detailed timeline will be provided.
Seaborne Airlines has also announced the resumption of service between Anguilla and San Juan beginning today, 30 September, departing San Juan at 12:10pm to arrive in Anguilla at1:15pm and departing Anguilla at 1:45pm to arrive in San Juan at 2:50pm
N.B. Seaborne Airlines also announced on its Facebook page that it will resume service today, 30 September to Antigua, St. Kitts and Nevis, and to St Thomas on 2 October.
Anguilla latest hotel updates
• Carimar Beach Club: Grand re-opening is planned for 21 December.
• CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa: As assessment continues, it is anticipated the resort will remained closed for restoration through the summer of 2018.
• Four Seasons Resort & Residences Anguilla: will not reopen before the end of 2017. Frangipani Beach Resort: annual opening date has been pushed back to December 2017
British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board remains focused on rebuilding a stronger territory and tourism product and officials on the ground are continuing their full assessment of the tourism industry, and will share updates as they become available.
As of 29 September, there are several charter operators that have announced they will be operating during the winter 2017/2018 season including:
● The Moorings: December 2017
● Marine Max Vacations: December 2017
● Festiva Sailing: December 2017
● Horizon Yacht Charters: January 2018
“Through the BVI Ports Authority, we are on a fast track towards the restoration of Tortola Pier Park’s cruise and shopping facility with a targeted date of reopening at least 50 per cent of retail and food and beverage stores by 1 November,” Mark Vanterpool, the minister of communications and works said.
A majority of the hotels in the territory are currently closed and will share updates after more extensive assessments in the coming weeks.
Nearby Cyril E. King Airport (STT) in St Thomas reopened on 28 September, and BVI ferry companies (Road Town Fast Ferry and Native Son) have resumed operations between the islands allowing BVI Islanders, residents and work permit holders to return to the country.
Dominica
The ferry company L’Express Des Iles has resumed service between Dominica and Saint Lucia. While there is no service today, 30 September, beginning tomorrow there will be daily service through to Friday 6 October, although there will be return service only tomorrow 1 October and Friday 6 October. On the remaining days, service will be one way only, either from or to Dominica.
The government has announced that Calls may fax and telephone landline services are back up in the northern town of Portsmouth, and that the main Princess Margaret Hospital continues to function, along with most of the major type 3 healthcare centres on island. However, it says only some of the wards are currently functional and occupied, water and electricity have been partially restored and only emergency/life-saving surgical procedures are being performed..
Latest hotel updates:
• Fort Young Hotel: Closed. No word yet on a possible reopening date.
• Secret Bay Dominica: Damage assessments are under way and an update is expected soon on restoration of grounds and structures.
• Rosalie Bay Resort – A nature and Wellness Resort – Once communication is restored, updates will be provided as they become available.
Cuba
Minister of tourism Manuel Marrero Cruz is quoted by the official Granma newspaper as saying Cuba will be ready for the high tourist season without a trace of Hurricane Irma. The minister met with 160 tour operators last week at Varadero’s Plaza América convention centre.
He said power, water, and communications were restored in 100 per cent of the country’s tourist resorts, including the northern Santa María, Coco and Guillermo keys, and that tourism facilities in the territories of Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, Granma, Cienfuegos, Mayabeque, Artemisa, and Pinar del Río, did not suffer any damage, and have been operating without any difficulties.
He described the damage suffered by facilities in Sancti Spíritus, especially in the north, Las Tunas, the northern coast of the province of Holguín, and Camagüey, as minor, while the damage in Havana and Varadero as minimal.
According to Granma, the minister said of the 18 hotels located on Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo, the latter of which suffered less damage, 14 will be fully recovered by 1 November, while the local airport will also be fully operational, and in better condition than before the hurricane struck. The remaining four hotel facilities will be completely restored to reopen their doors by 15 November.
The minister explained that all extra-hotel activities in Cayo Coco will be restored and back in operation between 15 and 20 October, including its marina, dolphinarium, glass tower, and beach huts, and that hotels on Cayo Santa María are expected to be fully operational by 15 November.
Of the 52 hotels in the country’s main tourist destination of Varadero, all except five are open, and the minister said: “By 30 October, there will not be a trace of the hurricane in Varadero.”
He reported a 50 per cent drop in arrivals in September due to the hurricane, but through 22 September, the country had received 3.6 million tourists, 24 per cent higher than the corresponding period last year.
Puerto Rico
The Puerto Rico Tourism Company (PRTC) said it continues to work with state and federal government agencies and is collaborating with industry partners to assess the impact of Hurricane Maria.
The resumption of normal flight operations at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) is being delayed for safety reasons due to radar functionality limitations impacting the number of arrivals and departures. The airport is operational again but on a limited schedule from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. until further notice. There are approximately twelve commercial flights scheduled daily. International flights have not yet been authorized. Airport authorities are working closely with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to resolve this situation while ensuring safe operations.
The following airports are operational and offering limited service:
• Rafael Hernández Airport (Aguadilla)
• Mercedita Airport (Ponce)
• José Aponte de la Torre Airport (Ceiba)
• Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport (Isla Grande)
• Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport (Vieques)
Travellers should contact airlines directly for the most up-to-date information specific to each traveller’s circumstances.
The following ports are open with restrictions (daylight transit only):
• Guayanilla
• Tallaboa
• Salinas
• San Juan Harbor
• Fajardo
• Culebra
• Vieques
• Guayama
The following hotels are closed, therefore they are not taking new reservations until further notice. Contact the hotel directly for rebooking.
• Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
• W Retreat & Spa in Vieques
• Gran Melia
• Coral by the Sea Hotel
• Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Beach Resort & Spa (planning to reopen at the end of the year)
• Royal Isabela
The following hotels are open, but are not taking new reservations prior to 15 October:
• Hyatt Place San Juan
• Hyatt House San Juan
• Verdanza Hotel
The following hotels are open, but are not taking new reservations prior to 22 October:
• Hyatt Hacienda del Mar (Dorado)
• Hotel El Convento
• Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino
• Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
• AC Hotel by Marriott San Juan Condado
• La Concha Resort
• InterContinental San Juan in Isla Verde
• San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
• The Wave Hotel
• Holiday Inn Express San Juan Condado Hotel by IHG
• Canario Boutique Hotel
• Coral Princess Hotel
• At Wind Chimes Boutique Hotel
• Best Western Condado Palm Inn & Suites
• Comfort Inn San Juan
• Hotel Miramar
• Hotel Villa Montaña & Spa
The following hotels are not accepting existing or new reservations through 31 October:
• Caribe Hilton
• The Condado Plaza Hilton
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Dorado del Mar Beach Resort
• Embassy Suites by Hilton San Juan Hotel & Casino
• Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort
• Hampton Inn & Suites San Juan
• El San Juan Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton
• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Juan
• El Conquistador, a Waldorf Astoria Resort (no longer accepting existing or new reservations through 31 December)
St. Barthelemy:
Latest hotel updates:
• Eden Roc has advised that due to the damage caused by Hurricane Irma, the hotel’s reopening, planned for October after its annual closure, is postponed until further notice.
• Hotel Christopher St Barth: currently closed with no reopening date set.
• Hotel Le Toiny: currently closed with no reopening date set.
• Le Guanahani: currently closed with a reopening set for Summer 2018.
St. Maarten (Dutch)
Minister of Aviation Mellissa Arrindell-Doncher told The Daily Herald this week that the management of Princess Juliana International Airport was still carrying out in-depth assessments of the internal and external facilities, the majority of which suffered heavy to severe damage. The minister estimated the airport would not be back at full operation capacity “in all its glory” for another 35 weeks, but woud be able to function optimally much sooner than that.
The entire airport perimeter fencing was destroyed and all four jet bridges sustained substantial structural damage. The swing cabs were blown off all four bridges and all metal entrance doors attached between the bridges and the terminal building were blown in.
All runway and taxiway lights and precision approach path indicators were destroyed. The shoulders and a section of the runway were under water due.
The majority of the roof was destroyed in the terminal building exposing the terminal to outdoor elements with water found on all four levels of the terminal.
There is no official date for the resumption of commercial flights into St. Maarten, according to the minister.
Latest hotel updates:
• Royal Islander Club: Hotel and insurance adjusters are assessing the full extent of the damage. Royal Islander Club La Plage and La Terrasse will be closed through the end of 2017.
• Coral Beach Club / Oyster Bay Beach Resort: Oyster Bay Beach Resort and the sister property Coral Beach Club are currently closed until the completion of repairs
• Sonesta Resorts: Suffered significant damage from Hurricane Irma. Started to process refunds for 2017 reservations with refunds issued progressively based on the date of travel. Refunds will continue through 31 March, 2018.
• Westin St. Maarten Dawn Beach: currently closed.
St. Martin (French)
• Alamanda Resort: Will reopen for Autumn 2018
• Belmond La Samanna: does not anticipate opening until at least April 2018.
• La Playa – Orient Bay: currently closed
Turks & Caicos Islands
The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) is making a strong and speedy recovery following the passage of Hurricane Irma. Hurricane Maria did little to delay the rebuilding, and additional damage was minimal across most of the TCI’s eight inhabited islands.
Providenciales, which is the most developed of the islands and where 90% of the population lives, is on a steady path to complete restoration in the coming days, with additional islands in the archipelago close behind.
Currently, water and power have been restored in Providenciales, North & Middle Caicos and South Caicos with needs being addressed on other islands. All roads on these islands have been cleared and as of 23 September, Providenciales International Airport and Grand Turk International airport were back to full operation and all flights in and out have resumed.
Many hotels and resorts are already welcoming guests, including Seven Stars, The Atrium, Caribbean Paradise Inn, Grace Bay Suites, The Sands and Somerset and Windsong.
Additional hotels have set opening dates that run now through the end of the year as follows:
• 30 September 30: The Shore Club, The Palms, Regent Grand, Grace Bay Club
• 1 October: West Bay Club, Villa Del Mar, The Venetian, The Tuscany, Reef Residences
• 5 October 5: Gansevoort
• 12 October: Ocean Club West
• 16 October: Coral Gardens
• 20 October: Amanyara
• 1 November: Blue Haven, Beach House, Royal West Indies, Meridian Club
• 15 November: Alexandra Resort
• 20 November: Ocean Club
• 25 November: Ports of Call
• 30 November: Club Med
• TBD November: Point Grace
• 14 December: Beaches
• TBD December: Sail Rock
Shops and restaurants are also largely open and welcoming local guests and visitors through their doors.
U.S. Virgin Islands (St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas)
Governor Kenneth E. Mapp reported that St. Thomas’ Cyril E. King Airport opened to commercial flights as planned on Thursday, with both American Airlines and Delta Air Lines operating services to the mainland United States.
The restoration of power, he added, was “inching its way forward”, while the Federal Emergency Management Agency, working with local counterparts, was progressing with its provision of water to homes.
The governor said cruise ships would like to return to St. Thomas and St. Croix as soon as 15 October, but that late October is a more realistic target. A formal announcement from the cruise lines and the U.S. Virgin Islands Government is expected next week.
Several businesses that serve cruise ship passengers are prepared to welcome visitors. Pash Daswani, President of the India Association, stated that association members who own Charlotte Amalie businesses are fully operational.
Commissioner Beverly Nicholson-Doty said the cruise lines have requested a status report on beaches and other attractions in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and that representatives would soon visit to assess sites in the territory so they can start scheduling cruise calls.
The West Indian Company Limited (WICO), which manages St. Thomas’ main cruise pier, was largely undamaged by the storm, according to WICO CEO Clifford Graham.
Latest hotel information is as follows:
• Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort & Casino: The resort will be closed until the end of the year. Please contact the resort via email for reservations booked directly on the website or by phone.
• Renaissance St. Croix Carambola Beach Resort & Spa: The resort is closed until further notice. Marriott International has established a resource line for those looking for information about guests and associates who may have been impacted by the hurricane and for information regarding existing reservations. The number is (866) 211-4610. For those calling outside the U.S. and Canada, the number is +1 402-390-3265. The resource line is staffed from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (ET).
• Sand Castle On The Beach: Cannot accept reservations until essential services are restored.
• Sugar Bay Resort Club & Resort: currently closed.
• The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas: The resort is currently closed. It is waiving hotel cancellation and change fees for specific arrival dates and customers should call 1-800-228-9290 for more information about their reservations. Those in countries outside of the United States seeking information about their reservations should call the Marriott toll-free number in their country.
• The Westin St. John: will remain closed throughout 2017.
• Margaritaville St. Thomas: closed until 10 October
• Bluebeard’s Castle Resort: closed until 10 October
• Elysian Beach Resort: closed until 10 October
• World Mark St. Thomas – Elysian Beach Resort: closed until 10 October
• Cottages by the Sea: Accepting reservations after 1 October
• Bolongo Bay Beach Resort: Anticipates reopening second to third week of December
• Caneel Bay: closed for the remainder of 2017. Further updates for 2018 will become available in due course.
• The Palms At Pelican Cove: currently closed and assessing damage
• The Bucaneer: guests who are scheduled to arrive before November are advised to reschedule or cancel with no hotel penalty.
• Club Comanche Hotel: reopened 26 September
• Estate Lindholm: Will reopen 1 December
• Gallows Point Resort: Plans to be open for guests by Thanksgiving and fully operational by Christmas Eve. Guests who previously booked reservations during this time may reschedule or cancel their trip without penalty before 15 December.
• Emerald Beach Resort: not taking hotel guests until mid-November
• Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort: currently closed. Hotel cancellation and change fees for specific arrival dates will be waived. Customers should call 1-800-228-9290 for more information about their reservations. Those in countries outside of the United States seeking information about their reservations should call the Marriott toll-free number in their country.
• Lindbergh Bay Hotel and Villas: currently being assessed.
• Point Pleasant Resort: Not accepting reservations for arrival through 15 November.
• Secret Harbour Beach Resort: closed and not taking reservations at this time. An update with be provided 10 October.
• Windward Passage: closed until further notice.
2nd UNWTO Global Conference on Talent Development: Strategies for Competitive Destinations
Following the success of the UNWTO Forum on Talent Development in Tourism: Investing in Youth in Medellin, Colombia in 2015 and the first edition of the UNWTO Global Conference on Talent Development and Education in Tourism held in Bilbao in 2015, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and Les Roches Global Hospitality Education, with support of the city government of Marbella, Malaga Regional Tourism Board, and Andalucia Regional Government, are organizing the 2nd UNWTO Global Conference on Talent Development in Tourism: Strategies for Competitive Destinations to be held from 8-10 October 2017 in Marbella, Spain.
This Conference will bring together policy makers and experts from public tourism administrations, private entities in addition to world renowned academics, to debate the decisive role of talent development and education in defining the competiveness of tourism destinations. The presentations will be complemented by a series of interactive working sessions giving all participants the opportunity to interact and share ideas. The conference also seeks to build awareness within the public and private sectors and among other tourism stakeholders about the importance of attracting and retaining young talent.
IIPT and China Chamber of Commerce Peace Park project after UNWTO General Assembly
| Peace Through Tourism is now including China. After the recently concluded UNWTO General Assembly in Chengdu, the International Institute for Peace Through Tourism launched the IIPT Global Peace Parks Project with the dedication of Pu’er Sun River National Park as an IIPT International Peace Park in collaboration with the China Chamber of Tourism.
China Chamber of Tourism Chairman, Peter Wong stated: “Pu’er Sun River National Park is the perfect site for the first IIPT International Peace Park in China as it is a national model of the “wild beauty of nature” covering an area of 216 square kilometers with a wide variety of plants and 812 species of wildlife. In is also a model of people in harmony with nature showcasing the local culture of the diverse ethnic people of the region.”
In his Peace Park dedication address, IIPT Founder and President Louis D’Amore said: “It is truly an honor to be here with you today as we dedicate this IIPT International Peace Park – the first in China, just a few days before the UN International Day of Peace, September 21 – and in support of UN Sustainable Development Goal 16 which calls for peaceful – inclusive and just societies. As we dedicate this park, we also begin what I am sure will be an important and fruitful relationship between the China Chamber of Tourism and the International Institute for Peace through Tourism; a relationship that will bring more peace parks in China and contribute towards the vision of tourism becoming the world’s first global peace industry – and the belief that every traveler is potentially an ambassador for peace.”
The Pu’er Sun River National Park focuses on the theme “wild beauty of nature” in combination with the local culture and the harmony of humans with nature. By operating profit-making projects within the Park, it is able to effectively provide sustainable protection for precious and unique natural and cultural resources. The Pu’er Sun River National Park also serves as a Forest Ecological System Science Education Base; Flora and Fauna Rescue Base; and Global Tourist Attraction for visitors to experience nature and the Pu’er Culture.
Members of China Chamber of Tourism following the unveiling of the stone plaque The IIPT Global Peace Parks project has a goal of 2,000 Peace Parks circling the earth by 11 November 2018 – the 100th Anniversary of the end of World War I. The four year commemoration of the World War I Centenary, with its theme of “No More War” – has been supported by IIPT since its launch in 2014. IIPT is proud to have United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) as a partner in its global campaign. UCLG is the united voice and world advocate of democratic local self-government with a global network of cities, local and regional governments representing 70% of the world population. UCLG goals include contributing to the achievement of the SDG’s, Paris Agreement, Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, and New Urban Agenda for Sustainable Urban Development. The Global Peace Parks Project builds on the success of IIPT’s 1992 “Peace Parks across Canada” Project commemorating Canada’s 125th birthday as a nation. IIPT conceived and implemented “Peace Parks across Canada” which resulted in 350 Peace Parks being dedicated by cities and towns from St. John’s, Newfoundland on the shores of the Atlantic, across five time zones to Victoria, British Colombia on the shores of the Pacific. The Peace Parks were all dedicated on October 8, 1992 as a National Peace Keeping Monument was being unveiled in Ottawa and 5,000 Peacekeepers passing in review. Each park was dedicated with a ‘bosco sacro’ – a peace grove of 12 trees, symbolic of Canada’s 10 Provinces and 2 Territories, as a link to one another, and a symbol of hope for the future. Of the more than 25,000 Canada 125 Projects, Peace Parks across Canada was said to be the most significant. IIPT International Peace Parks have since been dedicated as a legacy of each IIPT International Conferences and Global Summits. Notable IIPT International Peace Parks include Bethany Beyond the Jordan, site of Christ’s baptism as a legacy of the Amman Summit, 2000; Victoria Falls, as a legacy of the IIPT 5th African Conference, 2011, subsequently re-dedicated as the featured event on Opening Day of the UNWTO 20th General Assembly 2013, co-hosted by Zambia and Zimbabwe; and Medellin, Colombia, dedicated on Opening Day of the UNWTO 21st General Assembly. Photo is Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, first President of Zambia and UNWTO Secretary General, Dr. Taleb Rifai, planting the first of six olive trees during the re-dedication of the IIPT International Peace Park, Opening Day of the UNWTO 20th General Assembly. About China Chamber of Tourism The China Chamber of Tourism was formed in 2002 to include all sectors of the travel and tourism industry and related industries throughout China. It is based on a concept of “Pan Tourism” with the belief that tourism as a bond could connect and lead industries to develop co-operatively. Its core beliefs are “tourism is peace” and that world tourism calls for world peace; tourism is culture and the improvement of life quality. China Chamber of Tourism has achieved fruitful co-operation with UNWTO, WTTC, PATA – and now IIPT – enhancing the co-operation and exchange of Chinese and tourism enterprises of other nations. |
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| About IIPT The International Institute for Peace through Tourism (IIPT) is a not for profit organization dedicated to fostering travel and tourism initiatives that contribute to international understanding, cooperation among nations, an improved quality of environment, cultural enhancement and the preservation of heritage, poverty reduction, reconciliation and healing wounds of conflicts; and through these initiatives, helping to bring about a peaceful and sustainable world. It is founded on a vision of the world’s largest industry, travel and tourism – becoming the world’s first global peace industry; and the belief that every traveler is potentially an “Ambassador for Peace.” |
Dignitaries participating in the ceremony included Madame Wang Ping, Founding Chairman, China Chamber of Tourism (Photo on the left); Mr. Peter Wong Man Kong, Executive Chairman, China Chamber of Tourism; Mr. Yu Jinfang,Co-founder and Developer of Pu’er Sun River National Park; Mrs. May Jinfang, Co-founder and Developer;
Mr. Carlos Vogeler, Executive Director, UN World Tourism Organization; Mr. Xu Jing, Regional Director for Asia and Pacific, UN World Tourism Organization; Hon. Gede Ardika, former Minister, Culture and Tourism, Indonesia; Helen Marano, Government and Industry Affairs Director, World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC); Louis D’Amore, IIPT Founder and President and various city officials of Pu’er City.
From top to bottom: Start of the Peace Park Dedication; China Chamber of Tourism Chairman Peter Wong giving his address followed by Louis D’Amore address (feature photo)
Historic decision:UNWTO Framework Convention on Tourism Ethics approved
The member States of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) approved today an historical document – the UNWTO Framework Convention on Tourism Ethics. The Convention, approved at the 22nd UNWTO General Assembly transforms the Code of Ethics for Tourism into an international convention, the first in the life of the Organization.
The Convention covers the responsibilities of all stakeholders in the development sustainable tourism, providing a framework that recommends an ethical and sustainable modus operandi, including the right to tourism, the freedom of movement for tourists and the rights of employees and professionals.
“In an interconnected world where the business volume of tourism equals or even surpasses that of oil exports, food products or automobiles, it is important to set out a legal framework to ensure that growth is dealt with responsibly and that it can be sustained over time. Tourism is a power that must be harnessed for the benefit of all,” said the Chairman of the World Committee on Tourism Ethics (WCTE), Pascal Lamy.
Appointed as Chairman of the WTCE in 2013, Pascal Lamy, together with his colleagues in the Committee, has been instrumental in the process of presenting the Convention on Tourism Ethics to the 22nd UNWTO General Assembly.
The conversion of the Code, which was adopted in 1999, into a proper Convention represents a significant step towards ensuring that tourism development is done with full respect for sustainable development, social issues, local community development, improves understanding between cultures and addresses labour issues.
“This is an historical moment for UNWTO, said the Secretary-General”, Taleb Rifai. “The approval of the Convention is a strong legacy of the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development that we celebrate this year. It is also a strong sign that countries are committed to make tourism a force for a better future for all. It reinforces UNWTO institutional outreach in the UN system,” he added.
Child Protection & Tourism: Dorothy Rozga, ECPAT speaks at UNWTO General Assembly
At the UNWTO General Assembly in Chengdu, one of the most important issues and problems in the global travel and tourism industry was put in front of delegates and ministers of tourism from 125 countries today.
Addressing UNWTO General Assembly, Dorothy Rozga, Executive Director of ECPAT International, said:
It is a genuine honor to address you on behalf of ECPAT International and the High Level Global Task Force to end the Sexual Exploitation of Children in Travel and Tourism. We are grateful to UNWTO for this opportunity.
I know that the name of the Task Force that I just mentioned casts a negative shadow on the travel and tourism sector. However, I bring a positive and optimistic message. And that message is this: right here, in this hall today, we have the makings of a powerful alliance for the protection of the world’s children. The groundwork has already been laid for the travel and tourism sector to transform into a global leader in child protection.
As we have heard many times over the past few days – the expansion of the travel and tourism sector has multiple economic and social benefits. And many of these carry over to children, bringing positive changes to their lives. Unfortunately, this expansion has also increased opportunities for perpetrators who harm children by sexually exploiting them.
To protect these children, we need to understand this situation within the context of the rapidly evolving state of travel and tourism worldwide.
In response, in 2014, 67 leading organizations and companies from across the world – UN agencies, the private sector, academia, law enforcement and civil society – joined hands in a partnership. And over a two year period, they collectively prepared the Global Study on the Sexual Exploitation of Children in Travel and Tourism. In addition to the global report that summaries almost 3000 pages of research, the Study includes 9 regional reports, 15 country reports and 42 expert papers. It is the largest bank of information ever gathered on this phenomenon.
The Study concluded:
• that the sexual exploitation of children by travelers and tourists has expanded across the globe, out-pacing every attempt to respond;
• that more children are being victimised than ever before; and
• that no country is immune.
We now know there is no typical victim or offender. We know the expansion of internet and mobile technology and the rise of cheap travel means more opportunities to offend. And that means more victims.
To address this situation, the Study makes a series of concrete recommendations for actions to be taken by governments, law enforcement, the private sector, international agencies and civil society. What needs to be done to stop this crime is clear. What is required now is the commitment to act. In particular, Ministries of Tourism need to transform the Study’s recommendations into actions. Child protection needs to be taken into consideration in tourism development plans from the outset.
I’m glad to say that the governments of a number of countries have already convened events or taken steps to implement the recommendations… Ghana, Indonesia, Kenya, Nepal Norway, Poland, Thailand, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe to name a few. In Latin America, the Ministries of Tourism that make up the Regional Group – GARA that is currently chaired by Uruguay are doing outstanding work. And currently a regional plan is being developed by the South Asia Initiative to End Violence against Children (SAIEVAC)for the SAARC countries. Looking ahead, the Government of Colombia has expressed interest in hosting, in 2018, an International Summit on child protection in the travel and tourism sector.
Notwithstanding this progress, much needs to be done. There are children in every country. Travel and tourism reaches every country. Thus actions are required in every country.
Ladies and Gentlemen, during the course of this Assembly, much has been said about the Sustainable Development Goals. As has been observed, it is difficult to find an SDG target that would not, in some way, benefit from the positive energy and support of the travel and tourism sector. This includes the three SDG targets that specifically call for an end to child sexual exploitation.
We need to more clearly recognise and understand the links between the three SDG targets the call for sustainable development of tourism and the three SDGs targets related to child protection. They are mutually reinforcing.
If governments and industry gets the protection of children right, we will no longer have to worry, or feel ashamed, or try to quickly change the subject when this issue is raised. We will be rid of this scourge…..and even the poorest and most vulnerable families will be enjoy the opportunities presented by tourism without fear – and we all live up to UNWTO’s motto – “Travel, enjoy, respect.”
Thank you for your kind attention
Special appreciation is extended to the Dr. Taleb Rifai for his courage to allow this difficult subject to be presented to the General Assembly.
Zurab-Walter-Taleb: A new brotherhood in pictures: Words not necessary!
Thursday was a day in UNWTO and World Tourism that will be remembered. It was the day Ambassador Zurab Pololikashvili from Georgia was confirmed by the UNWTO General Assembly as the new Secretary General for the term 2018-2021.
It was a day the World Community came together as one, as one global tourism community.
It was the day the Hon. Minister Walter Mzembi from Zimbabwe shook hands with the newly confirmed Zurab Pololikashvili and pledged his support when everyone thought he was his biggest opponent.
It was also the day the current SG Taleb Rifai shined, finishing the confirmation hearing in his own style, avoiding a vote. He got emotional when he was honored for his tireless work and leadership of the organization bringing world tourism to a new level.
It was an amazing day.
Enjoy the photos by Christian del Rosario of Attreo Studio and long time partner photographer for eTurboNews.
