In one of the last actions before the official kick-off of the 2018 EU-China Tourism Year, a conference and B2B matchmaking event are taking place in London on 2-3 November.

The World Bridge Tourism conference was brought together by the China Outbound Tourism Research Institute and will engage with two headline discussions: new service trends for the changing demands of travellers to Europe and innovation and cooperation for China-Europe tourism.

Conference speakers include:

• Antonio Cenini, Task Force for the 2018 EU-China Tourism Year, European Commission
• Concetta Caravello, Chief External Relations, Welcome Chinese
• Tom Jenkins, CEO, ETOA – European tourism association
• Mikko Turtiainen, Vice President Global Sales, Finnair
• Tony Ong, Vice President and General Manager of Overseas Business Department, Hua Yuan International Travel Co. Ltd.
• Laurens van den Oever, CMO, ForwardKeys
• Di (Gordon) Shen, Account Manager, Qyer
• Jean-Marie Wodon, CEO, Zapptax
• Philip Dodd, CEO, Made in China
• Charles Bonaparte, Chairman, European Federation of Napoleonic Cities
• Zhenye (Luis) Lu, CEO, Go with Tommy

Amongst the anticipated five hundred conference delegates, one hundred represent Chinese tour operators who have been in Europe for the week hosted by national tourist boards on a series of familiarisation trips. Support from Welcome Chinese, Kairos and Finnair have also been indispensable in bringing this project to fruition.

Following the conference, a China market B2B matchmaking is currently taking place at the Intercontinental London the O2 on Friday 3 November, alongside ETOA’s Global European Marketplace. The World Bridge Tourism workshop will match one hundred Chinese tour operators with European tourism suppliers.

ETOA CEO, Tom Jenkins said: ‘China is an international tourism source market different from any other, both in terms of potential, structure and interest. The World Bridge Tourism project, aimed at supporting European SMEs in learning more about the Chinese market, also provides real business opportunities to all involved.’

The EU-funded project, World Bridge Tourism, lays the ground for a programme of B2B actions for the tourism industry during 2018; Partnerships in European Tourism, to be delivered by a consortium formed of ETOA – European tourism association, the European Travel Commission and ECTAA.

The Latin American and Caribbean Economic System (SELA) and the Latin American Integration Association (ALADI) will promote joint actions in the economic, social and trade areas in the region.

The Permanent Secretary of SELA, Ambassador Javier Paulinich, and the Secretary General of the Latin American Integration Association (ALADI), Alejandro de la Peña Navarrete, signed the Memorandum of Understanding on 27 October 2017 at the headquarters of ALADI in Montevideo, Uruguay.

Both parties will promote economic and institutional cooperation focused on trade facilitation in processes associated with digitization, simplification and harmonization of procedures according to international standards, including the digital certification of origin, certified electronic signatures, and electronic commerce; as well as in the development of skills and capacities for greater efficiency, transparency and security within the framework of regional integration.

In accordance with their respective spheres of competence, they will be able to carry out the following activities: a) Exchange of information, coordination and cooperation in regulatory technical aspects and for the promotion of information and communications technologies to facilitate digital trade; b) Collect and identify existing asymmetries and the level of progress by country; c) Organize meetings, seminars, workshops, and specific projects in this area.

For further information, visit: http://www.sela.org/

The travelers’ competition closed with 2,400 submissions and one lucky winner: Katie Diederichs, who will be embarking on an unforgettable trip across six different countries to tell the world how tourism can make a positive change.

Three weeks after being launched, the Travellers´ Competition closed with 2,400 submissions. All eligible entries received were judged based on creativity and originality, adherence to theme and digital engagement and social influence of participants.

Four years ago, Katie and her husband quit their comfortable 9-to-5 jobs and set off on an adventure that hasn’t yet ended. From backpacking in South America to trekking to Everest Base Camp to living as expats in Asia, they´ve been privileged to experience many cultures around the world.

“During our wanderings, I’ve learned that tourism is a powerful thing.” Katie said in her submission. She also added “There are ways – both big and small – that every traveler can lessen the footprint they leave. My passion is educating others and myself about how we can travel more sustainably.”

Katie will be embarking on the 24th of November on a journey across the world that will be supported by Explore WorldWide, an adventure travel group offering a wide range of activities and experiences with a commitment to responsible travel and a pinch of Explore spirit.

Katie will be visiting sustainable tourism projects in Colombia, Germany, Mexico, the United Arab Emirate of Ras Al-Khaimah and the Léman region in Switzerland, all partners of the initiative.

Together with her life and travel partner, she manages the website, ‘Two Wandering Soles’, focused on ethical travel for people on all budgets. With 35,000+ monthly visitors and a growing following on social media, Katie would make a fantastic representative of a “responsible traveler” that people from all walks of life can relate to.

The jury of the competition comprised Sandra Carvao, Chief of Communications and Publications at UNWTO, Sofia Panayiotaki, Founder and CEO, PR MEDIACO and John Tefler, Interim Managing Director at Explore Worldwide.

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has called on Travel & Tourism companies to measure, monitor and report their sustainability impact as it launches new guidance on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Reporting for the Travel & Tourism Sector.

Gloria Guevara, President & CEO, WTTC, said: “WTTC’s Global Summit earlier this year focused on how our sector can contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We know that Travel & Tourism has a significant role to play in reducing poverty, protecting the environment, and contributing to the inclusive and sustainable growth the SDGs aspire to. Sustainability reporting, that is integrated into financial reports or presented as a separate activity, shows commitment to and progress against these goals. What is more, Goal 12 specifically calls on companies to report their ESG impacts.”

The report covers latest trends in sustainability reporting, including which governments and stock exchanges are mandating such reports, and how companies are refining the reports to be more engaging for audiences. It also includes a 12-step guide to reporting and specific guidance on how to report on the issues of Climate Change; Community; Energy; Governance, Risk and Compliance; Supply Chain; Waste Generation and Diversion; Water; and Workforce.

Guevara continued: “Recent research with WTTC Members highlighted sustainability as a top priority for the sector. Sustainability reporting, which is on the rise across Travel & Tourism, is a mechanism for companies to monitor progress and share best practices. Our aim with this guidance is to support companies, large and small, as they take this journey; and provide them with the mechanism to communicate their progress. As a sector which accounts for 10% of the world’s GDP and generates 292 million jobs, we have a responsibility to ensure that growth is sustainable.”

The report is available to download from www.wttc.org/Sustainability-Reporting

Organisations wishing to share their best practices in sustainable tourism can also apply for WTTC’s Tourism for Tomorrow Awards programme until 14th November 2017 at www.wttc.org/T4TAwards

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 8^th 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

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.

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.

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.

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.

29th September, 2017 London

The Climate smART Award is the first cultural initiative of SUNx – Strong Universal Network, which exists to actively encourage the massive Travel & Tourism sector to play a leading role in response to eXistential Climate Change. It is a legacy to our friend Maurice Strong, a champion of Sustainable Development and advocate for Travelism to radically revitalise its climate resilience actions, through Impact-Travel: measured; green; 2050 proofed.

Professor Geoffrey Lipman, SUNx Co-founder said:

“Climate Change is eXistential. SUNx strongly supports The Paris Accords which are under irresponsible threat. Travel and Tourism must stand up to this challenge, and public opinion can play a big part. This award will honour museums and cultural centres that make public education a priority and we are delighted to join up with Leading Culture Destinations Awards (LCD) – sharing their vision of Museums as focal points for education of travellers.”

Building partnerships is an essential part of climate resilience strategy. Our partnership with LCD is an important step. We believe that by creating a movement of organisations and individuals committed to climate education, innovation and resilience, we can catalyse change in the Travel & Tourism sector.

The judging panel of the Award is drawn from SUNx Council members with environmental, business, art, civil society and climate expertise. The process took into account the substance of the project, as well as outreach, quality, imagination and innovation. From a dozen longlisted nominees, we narrowed down to a shortlist of three leading-edge institutions, from different parts of the world, with the following result.

WINNER 2017 LCD/SUNx “Climate smART Award”
MANCHESTER MUSEUM: CLIMATE CONTROL Manchester, UK.
RUNNERS UP 2017 LCD/SUNx “Climate smART Award”
ART+CLIMATE=CHANGE 2017 Melbourne, Australia
FRANKLIN INSTITUTE: CHANGING EARTH Philadelphia, USA

Climate Control was developed as part of Manchester’s time as European City of Science. They wanted to connect people with climate change as it is a tremendous challenge, that goes far beyond the scientific, but into the social, economic, and social justice spheres.
Climate Control took place in two main areas: a specially designed exhibition in our special exhibitions space, that had as its starting point ‘we can’t change our past but we can change our future’.

The exhibition took inspiration from the Chinese Yin and Yang symbol. It had two entrances- ‘explore the past’ took the visitor into an all-black room which linked coal and fossil fuels with industrialisation and impacts on Arctic wildlife and worldwide. The other entrance took visitors into an all-white room, ‘explore the future’, where people shared their ideas and concerns around climate change, and solutions for a more sustainable future.

Climate Control has gone beyond a special exhibition, to represent the Museum’s commitment in this area of work. The Museum won its Carbon Literacy Organisation Award in 2016, being the first carbon literate museum in the world.

ART+CLIMATE=CHANGE 2017 Melbourne, Australia
A festival of exhibitions and events harnessing the creative power of the arts to inform, engage, and inspire action on climate change. ART+CLIMATE=CHANGE 2017 presents over thirty curated exhibitions at leading museums and galleries in Melbourne and regional Victoria including EXIT, the highly acclaimed 360° video installation commissioned by the Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain, Paris. EXIT investigates human migrations and their leading causes, including the impacts of climate change.
Its complete 2015 update coincided with the pivotal Paris based United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21). Together with keynote presentations and public forums by leading international and Australian artists, scientists and activists, ART+CLIMATE=CHANGE 2017 will help us to acknowledge the challenges we are facing, and embrace the solutions that are already here.

FRANKLIN INSTITUTE: CHANGING EARTH Philadelphia, USA
Each experience in Changing Earth provides insights into repercussions that may result from our responses to changes—natural or manmade. Changing Earth is constructed of sustainable materials.

The flooring is made from recycled content and post-consumer waste products. All wood is Forest Stewardship Council certified or bamboo. All metal is recyclable. Paint is low-VOC and graphics are printed on recycled material using water-based inks.
Dynamic sensory experiences demonstrate the interconnected systems of earth science. Calculate your carbon footprint, find solutions to reduce carbon emissions, explore seismographs of recent earthquakes, and construct a building to see if it can withstand an earthquake. Experiment and discover how dams and water volume effect river flow and erosion. Go “on camera” and deliver your own weather forecast.

JUDGING PANEL
Tom Selänniemi – Director, Finnish Nature Centre Haltia (Chair) Finland
Geoffrey Lipman – SUNx Co-Founder, President ICTP. Former ASG. UNWTO CAN
Felix Dodds – SUNx Co-Founder- Former Exec Director UN Multi-stakeholder Forum, US
Ignace Schops – Director RLKM, Goldman Award, President Europarc Fed. Belgium
Tom Goldberg, MBE – Chair AWI, former M.D. Atlas Ward UK
Richard Prosser – Chair Audley Travel and Tusker Direct UK
Maureen Lipman, CBE – Actress, Columnist, Comedian UK
Paul Wilke – Former Global PR Manager Visa, CEO Upright Position Communications US
Rose Mukogo – Economist & former Director Research Zimbabwe Tourism Authority ZIM
Madan Bezberuah – Former Secretary Indian Ministry of Tourism IN
Jeanine Pires – Former Head of Embratour, Brazil Tourism BR

The Climate smART Award is part of a journey to raise awareness, develop education systems and to foster innovation. By 2030 we aim to have a SUNx Centre in every country and to inspire a cadre of committed neXt generation transformation advocates. These SUNx “Champions” will help to drive the behavioural change and influence the fundamental government and industry actions needed.