Edition 190 · March 2024

We welcome short stories on innovations, and success stories and stories that reflect the positive things that the tourism industry is doing to ensure that the industry returns and re-builds.

Submit stories to editor@tourforce.com

Lego House in the town of Billund, Denmark has the world’s first Lego restaurant called Mini Chef. Orders are taken and food is prepared by Lego minifigure chefs before arriving via a conveyor belt from a hidden kitchen in giant blue Lego bento-style boxes.

Further information: https://legohouse.com/en-gb/explore/eateries/

The $2 million Tourism Business Capability Subsidy is providing funding to tourism and events businesses in Queensland. It is available to sole traders, micro, small and medium-sized companies for accreditation and training programs including sustainability, ecotourism, trade distribution, cultural understanding, quality assurance, accessible tourism, and wildlife attractions. Applications close 27 March 2024.

Further information: https://www.dts.qld.gov.au/tourism/funds/tourism-business-capability-subsidy

Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland

The New South Wales Government is providing $1.5 million through the Regional Event Fund for events held in the 2024/25 financial year. It supports regional events to increase their profile and encourage visitation under the streams of Incubator, Flagship and Emerging. Since its establishment the fund has distributed over $14 million to more than 450 events that have become bucket list experiences and key drivers of regional visitation. Applications close 9 April 2024.

Further information: https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/newsroom/nsw-government-announces-1-5-million-boost-for-regional-events

Tourism operators in Tropical North Queensland can apply for funding to aid their response to future natural disasters. The $10 million Building Resilient Tourism Infrastructure Fund will provide grants for tourism businesses impacted by Tropical Cyclone Jasper to build resilience and innovative solutions such as flood prevention infrastructure and equipment alternative power, and safety upgrades. Applications close 19 April 2024.

Further information: https://www.dtis.qld.gov.au/tourism/funds/building-resilient-tourism-infrastructure-tropical-cyclone-jasper

Turkish-Dutch carrier Corendon Airlines is offering adult-only areas on flights between Amsterdam and the Caribbean. Strategically positioned at the front of the aircraft, the 93 reserved seats are exclusively for anyone aged 16-plus. The carrier claims the product will improve the experience for both those travelling with and without children. It is the brainchild of Corendon founder who also runs adult-only hotels in number of popular vacation destinations including Curaçao, Bodrum, Turkey and Ibiza, Spain.

Further information: https://www.corendon.com/en/only-adult-zone

A new cruise tax came into effect in Greenland following a collaborative campaign between citizens, tourism operators and the Greenlandic tourist board. The new tax includes an environmental disruption payment for natural landings when cruises dock in remote and sparsely inhabited areas. Funds will also go towards improving harbours and communities in popular areas.

Further information: https://www.positive.news/society/tourism-greenland-a-green-tax/

The Terminal 5 project is being undertaken by Changi Airport Group, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, and the Ministry of Transport as part of the Changi East development. The new terminal will be linked to other terminals allowing it to be operated as a single, integrated airport for operational efficiency. New facilities will include navigation aids, airfield lighting systems and a fire station. The existing third runway will also be extended to 4 kilometre to handle larger passenger aircraft with construction starting in 2024.

Further information: https://www.changiairport.com/corporate/our-expertise/changi-east.html

The Crystalbrook Collection is expanding into South Australia with a $130 million new hotel in Adelaide’s CBD. The Crystalbrook Sam will feature 200 guest rooms, a restaurant and bar, meeting spaces and Eleme Spa and Bath House. It will be the eighth hotel in Australia joining properties in Cairns, Port Douglas, Byron Bay, Sydney, and Newcastle. Construction by local property developer Samaras Group is expected to be completed in 2026.

Further information: https://www.crystalbrookcollection.com/

Binna Burra Lodge is being rebuilt after 36 heritage-listed cabins were lost in the 2019 bushfires. The Queensland Government is providing $18 million in funding from the Regional Tourism Recovery Program to support the reconstruction of this 100-year-old pioneering ecotourism property. Constructed by locally sourced suppliers is anticipated by 2025.

Further information: https://www.dtis.qld.gov.au/news/latest/2024/award-winning-hinterland-accommodation-rebuild-begins

Hilton has announced a new exclusive partnership with outdoor hospitality company AutoCamp to offer guests experiences that blend outdoor adventure with the hospitality of a boutique hotel at properties adjacent to popular national parks. Each AutoCamp location creates a unique experience that offers custom-designed Airstreams, spacious cabins, luxury tents and other unique accommodations.

Further information: https://stories.hilton.com/releases/hilton-partners-with-autocamp-to-offer-elevated-outdoor-lodging-experiences-in-iconic-natural-settings

Image: AutoCamp Cape Cod

Westin Hotels and Resorts Sleep Well program emphasises the importance of a great night’s sleep for both mental and physical health. Sleep is one of the brand’s Six Pillars of Well-being and all properties boast Westin Heavenly Bed, a nutritious Sleep Well Menu, and amenities including White Tea Heavenly Bath products and Sleep Well Lavender Balm.

Further information: https://westin.marriott.com/wellness/sleep-well/

Karijini Eco Retreat, situated in Western Australia’s second largest national park, has launched a new eco-tent category which features a king size bed, solar powered lights and fully enclosed ensuite bathroom. The retreat is 100% Aboriginal-owned by Gumala Enterprises representing the Banjima, Yinhawangka and Nyiyaparli people of the Pilbara region. The project was funding through the Australian Government’s Caravan Parks Grant Program which aims to support upgrades and new facilities, delivering better experiences and more options for travellers as well as economic benefits for local communities.

Further information: https://www.karijiniecoretreat.com.au/

Tourism and Events Queensland has launched a new chatbot named Bunji who features on the homepage of the consumer website as a koala icon. Using Generative AI technology, Bunji will enhance the user experience by offering personalised recommendations, tips, and advice to help visitors with travel planning needs including finding accommodation, deals or recommending local attractions and operators. Bunji is an Aboriginal word originating from Northern Queensland and the Northern Territory which means mate or friend.

Further information: https://www.queensland.com/au/en/home

The World Travel and Tourism Council, in partnership with Microsoft, has created a report on the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence for business leaders. The comprehensive report entitled Introduction to Artificial Intelligence Technology: Guide for Travel and Tourism Leaders provides a roadmap to understanding and harnessing the immense power of Artificial Intelligence.

Further information: https://researchhub.wttc.org/product/introduction-to-artificial-intelligence-ai-technology-guide-for-travel-tourism-leaders-2024

Australia’s first dementia-friendly sensory trail opened in 2021 in Woowookarung Regional Park near Melbourne. The trail was designed by the Victorian State Government with input from people who have dementia and their caregivers. Accessible for wheelchairs and assistance dogs, it includes several communal meeting places where visitors can gather to listen to music, share stories and impressions of the landscape. It aimed to create a safe space for people living with dementia, as well as creating a blueprint for other communities to establish similar trails.

Further information: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/news/2021/07/13/05/50/new-dementia-friendly-trail-opens-at-woowookarung-regional-park

Opening in 2024, the Mattel Adventure Park will become Arizona’s first fully themed amusement park showcasing the full spectrum of the iconic toymaker’s expansive portfolio of brands. The uniquely designed nine-acre park combines inspiration from Mattel, Epic Resort Destinations, and other industry-leading partners in amusements and entertainment. It includes two themed Hot Wheels rollercoasters, Hot Wheels go-kart track, and Barbie Beach House.

Further information: https://www.matteladventurepark.com/

Nevada Travel has launched a Paranormal Passport to encourage visitors to explore its haunted sights and tours including 600 ghost towns, The Clown Motel, Alien Research Centre, and Extraterrestrial Highway. The Paranormal Passport is free to download and allows travellers to digitally check in at nearly 50 locations to earn points for prizes.

Further information: https://travelnevada.com/experiences/paranormal-passport/

The Visit Baltimore Warm Welcome Program seeks to tell all visitors regardless of who they are, that the city is a place for them. More than 80 hotels, restaurants, museums, and other tourism operators have signed up to participate in the program. To be part of the program, businesses and attractions must also offer mandatory diversity, equity, and inclusion training courses.

Further information: https://baltimore.org/partners/warm-welcome

The Queensland Department of Environment, Science and Innovation has opened an Expression of Interest process for suitably experienced individuals, organisations, or consortiums to operate new nature-based experiences on the Ngaro Track, Whitsunday Islands National Park. Multiple commercial operators may be considered suitable based on assessed experience and capability. Submissions close 10 May 2024.

Further information: https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/whitsunday-islands/about/ngaro-track-under-construction

Yosemite National Park in the United States is implementing a new visitor management plan requiring reservations for entry to address vehicle congestion and overcrowding in the Yosemite Valley. Visitors driving into the National Park will need to reserve a slot using the vehicle reservation system for park entry on weekends to ease overcrowding during peak times. The new system will come into effect from April 2024.

Further information: https://parkplanning.nps.gov/projectHome.cfm?projectId=113113

The Western Australian National Park Tourism Experiences Development Program aims to achieve density and diversity of high quality, environmentally conscious and culturally sensitive tourism experiences in and around national parks. The program aims to assist potential private sector tourism operators and Traditional Owners create new and enhanced tourism experiences that leverage both recent and current investment in national parks.

Further information: https://www.tourism.wa.gov.au/industry-support-and-events/tourism-development/Pages/Tourism-Experiences-Development.aspx#/\

The Gorilla Friendly Pledge aims to raise awareness for the conservation of gorillas including guidelines for anyone visiting the mountain gorilla habitat. It is a commitment to protecting the environment of these precious species by adhering to established gorilla visitation rules and regulations meant to minimise the risk of disease transmission to and behavioural change of the gorillas. It was initiated by the International Gorilla Conservation Program and is based on rules and regulations in the International Union for the Conservation of Nature Best Practice Guidelines for Great Ape Tourism.

Further information: https://gorillafriendly.org/

The Port of Seattle has collaborated with Tourism Cares and The Travel Foundation to produce the Responsible Travel Handbook. The collaborative effort with statewide partners aims to advance conversations around tourism’s impact on the environment, destination stewardship, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. It provides practical guidance on how organisations, regions, and communities can help create a better version of the tourism industry that works for all Washingtonians.

Further information: https://www.portseattle.org/blog/what-responsible-travel

Destination New South Wales has developed a guide to agritourism experiences to assist businesses interested in growing their presence in the tourism sector. Agritourism is a growing segment that connects people directly with farms, products, and individuals. The resource is designed to help primary producers develop practical and bookable experiences for visitors by connecting them to authentic farming practices in a unique and memorable way.

Further information: https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/destination-nsw-business-support/nsw-first-program/agritourism

A report by UN Tourism offers local perspectives and insights on how tourism can be used as a driver for development and well-being of rural communities. The publication Tourism and Rural Development includes best practice policies, tourism products and services. It also provides novel approaches to increase opportunities such as job creation, business development, engagement of women and youth, strengthening of community pride and promotion and preservation of natural and cultural resources.

Further information: https://www.unwto.org/rural-tourism

A new publication from Routledge offers a comprehensive overview of theoretical and practical perspectives for tracking and interpreting trends and issues in tourism sustainability, planning and development, management, and technology. The Trends and Issues in Tourism Sustainability, Planning and Development, Management, and Technology defines a systematic classification scheme for analysing trends and issues critical to the sustainable development of tourism in the private and public sector.

Further information: https://www.routledge.com/Routledge-Handbook-of-Trends-and-Issues-in-Tourism-Sustainability-Planning/Morrison-Buhalis/p/book/9781032271972

A report by the World Travel and Tourism Council and the Sustainable Tourism Global Centre examines the social footprint of the travel and tourism sector globally by age, gender, and wage. Supported by Oxford Economics, the report discusses how the travel and tourism sector contributes to the job market for young individuals and female workers. It also provides insights to assist policymakers and stakeholders seeking to further enhance the socio-economic implications of the sector.

Further information: https://wttc.org/news-article/new-travel-and-tourism-social-impact-report-reveals-significant-increase-in-female-employment-since-2010

The Western Australian Government, through Tourism Western Australia, has committed resources towards initiatives to sustainably develop cruise tourism including the release of the Western Australian Cruise Tourism Strategic Plan 2023-2033. It aims to grow economic and sustainable outcomes by securing new cruise lines to visit the state, expanding the itineraries of existing cruise ships already visiting the state, and by attracting more seasonal home-ported vessels to call Fremantle home.

Further information: https://www.tourism.wa.gov.au/industry-support-and-events/tourism-development/Cruise_shipping/Pages/Cruise-shipping.aspx#/

Intrepid Travel is partnering with the William Angliss Institute to offer scholarships, mentoring and excursion opportunities to the next generation of tourism leaders. Students will also have access to guest lectures on sustainable travel and industry collaborations which will provide real-world expertise and exposure. Scholarships will also support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and exclusive student discounts on select Intrepid Travel tours.

Further information: https://www.angliss.edu.au/about/news/a-world-of-opportunities-as-intrepid-travel-partners-with-angliss/

The UN Tourism has developed an Education Toolkit to guide the introduction of tourism as a subject of secondary school curricula. It also provides case studies of integrating tourism education and training in public and private schools. It was prepared by the Department of Innovation, Education, and Investments with input from academic partners and institutions including the Cambridge Assessment International Education, American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute, and the International Baccalaureate Organisation.

Further information: https://www.unwto.org/news/the-global-education-forum-puts-a-spotlight-on-the-future-of-tourism

The Australian Tourism Industry Council has relaunched the Quality Tourism Framework, an online business development platform which provides an enhanced user-friendly experience designed to support the ongoing development of the visitor economy. The Australian Government has provided $8 million in funding to support a suite of programs to assist small and regional tourism businesses to provide quality, sustainable visitor experiences.

Further information: https://www.qualitytourismaustralia.com/home/accreditation/

Tourism Research Australia has released the 2022-23 Tourism Investment Monitor which details investment in the key tourism segments of aviation, accommodation, arts, recreation, and business services. It reports on recent tourism investment trends, the location of projects by state and territory, and progress through stages of the development timeline. It uses data from Deloitte Access Economics’ Investment Monitor, STR Global Asia Pacific’s Pipeline Database, Commonwealth, state and territory budget papers and Investment authorities within state and territory governments.

Further information: https://www.tra.gov.au/en/economic-analysis/tourism-investment-monitor

The United Nations World Tourism Organisation has launched the world’s largest digital hub for rural tourism communities. The new tool will encourage collaboration across the Best Tourism Villages Network connecting around 200 rural destinations in every global region. The platform is designed to allow villages to exchange experiences and insights and take part in masterclasses focused on growing tourism as a driver of rural development.

Further information: https://www.unwto.org/news/unwto-launches-new-tool-to-promote-collaboration-among-world-s-best-tourism-villages

The Adventure Travel Trade Association has released its annual insights into adventure travel trends from sustainability and overtourism to Artificial Intelligence and regional conflicts. Information was sourced from experts, members of the adventure travel community, and broader tourism research to explore the key trends, issues, and challenges shaping the industry. The research and analysis also provides insights that could help inform business decisions and identifies shared concerns as a community.

Further information: https://www.adventuretravelnews.com/industry-outlook-2024-the-key-trends-challenges-and-issues-shaping-adventure-travel

The world’s leading provider of global business intelligence, market analysis and consumer insights has released a report highlight consumers are ‘greenwashed-out’ and forcefully pushing responsibility back on businesses to prove their eco pledges. Euromonitor International has offices around the world and analysts in over 100 countries providing the latest data science techniques and market research on key trends.

Further information: https://www.euromonitor.com/press/press-releases/nov-2023/greenwashed-out-consumers-demand-businesses-step-up-and-prove-their-eco-credentials-euromonitor-international

The Travel Foundation has entered into a three-year agreement with Mastercard’s Tourism Innovation Hub for closer cooperation on joint initiatives. Mastercard will combine data insights and technology capabilities with the Travel Foundation’s sustainable tourism expertise and initiatives to create solutions that can define the future of travel.

Further information: https://www.thetravelfoundation.org.uk/travel-foundation-gears-up-for-next-20-years/

The first Tourism and Climate Change Stocktake 2023 report has been released by the Tourism Panel on Climate Change. The report provides the first comprehensive framework on which to base assessment of the tourism sector’s progress on climate action including 24 key findings aimed to help policy makers and the tourism industry make decisions about planning and investment toward climate resilient global tourism. Led by Griffith University and the University of Waterloo, the Tourism Panel on Climate Change is an independent science-based network of over 60 international experts.

Further information: https://tpcc.info/

A new report from SITA examines emerging technological, societal, traveller, and economic trends that will change the travel landscape by 2033. The Meet the Megatrends report highlights the growing interest from airlines and airports in the arrival of Generative Artificial Intelligence technology and Urban Air Mobility including the increased demand for short-range routes, advances in batteries and electric propulsion systems, as well as efforts to reduce aviation’s carbon footprint and operational costs.

Further information: https://www.sita.aero/pressroom/news-releases/shifting-megatrends-see-the-rapid-evolution-of-electric-air-taxis-and-emergence-of-generative-ai-as-driving-forces-in-travel-and-transport/

Hilton and Ipsos has launched their annual trends report which highlights consumer trends that are anticipated to define travel in the year ahead and generational insights driving industry innovation. What Millennials, Gen Z, Gen X and Baby Boomers Tell Us About Travel in the Year Ahead takes a deeper look at how generations view travel, from the digital-native Gen Z-er to the experienced Boomer. The global survey of more than 10,000 travellers from nine countries also included in-depth interviews with travel experts.

Further information: https://stories.hilton.com/releases/2024-trends-report

The Global Sustainable Tourism Summit by Ecotourism Australia will bring together expert international, Pacific region and Australian leaders in sustainable tourism to discuss the current and future risks and opportunities for the sector. Keynote speakers from Intrepid Travel, Flight Centre, WWF-Australia, Accor Pacific and more will be delving into the four pillars of sustainability and presenting the latest innovations and best-practice examples from their sector.

Globally renowned Indigenous tourism expert, Chief Frank Antoine of the Bonaparte Nation will be sharing insights from Canada of how to engage with Indigenous tourism.

The event will run from 4 – 6 June 2024 in Brisbane, Australia.

Program details and registrations are available at: https://www.ecotourism.org.au/conference

The Australian Geoscience Council is holding a workshop at the University of Sydney on 18 July 2024 as part of the GeoFestival and International Geotourism Conference initiated by the Indonesian Geoparks Network. The workshop will include field trips and speakers from both Indonesia and Australia focusing on topics relevant to volcanic geotourism destinations.

Further information: https://geofest.com.au/

Image: Undara Lava Tube

The Victorian Tourism Industry Council has opened registrations for their 2024 Vision Summit which will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on 16 April 2024. It will focus on traveller research and consumer insights which influence the industry achieving the expected growth in total tourism spend over the next four years.

Further information: https://www.vtic.com.au/eventdetails/23000/vtic-2024-vision-summit

The Perth Airport Western Australia Tourism Conference will be held in Mandurah from 10-12 June 2024. The conference will provide the chance to hear from industry-leading speakers on critical industry issues and innovative ideas, as well as opportunities for professional and business development, networking, and engagement.

Further information: https://tourismcouncilwa.com.au/events-training/2024-perth-airport-wa-tourism-conference

The 4th Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Conference will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on 27 August 2024. The conference is a platform to showcase the opportunities in attracting and servicing this important market including industry accessibility and inclusion best practices.

Further information: https://getaboutable.com/aitcap-2024-melbourne/