Edition 195 · September 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

Singapore has taken first place in the latest Henley Passport Index by allowing its citizens the ability to enter 195 countries out of 227 around the world visa-free. The Southeast Asian Island nation has top spot while Japan shares second place with France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. The ranking is based on data from the International Air Transport Association which maintains the world’s largest database of travel information.

Further information: https://www.henleyglobal.com/newsroom/press-releases/henley-global-mobility-report-july-2024

The Queensland Government has launched a $4.5 million Tourism Business Digital Adaption Program for tourism business to boost their digital presence. It aims to assist businesses invest in online booking platforms, enhance customer engagement technology and improve the online visitor experience. Eligible businesses can receive a rebate as well as access to webinars, resources, and digital product trials.

Further information: https://www.qtic.com.au/industry-development/tourism-business-digital-adaption-program/

Round 29 of the Queensland Destination Events Program has opened which seeks to leverage events by extending the flow on effects of the economic, marketing and social benefits of events throughout metropolitan and regional Queensland. Applications close 23 September 2024.

Further information: https://teq.queensland.com/au/en/industry/what-we-do/queensland-events/queensland-events-funding/destination-event-funding

Hurtigruten has unveiled a new brand campaign which features Norwegian idioms in their original language translated and interpreted from literal to actual meaning against a scenic backdrop that recognises Norwegians’ love of the outdoors and nature. The Norwegianess campaign is based on a series of quirky sayings that bring joy to the Norwegian culture and lifestyle. The omnichannel campaign will include mainstream press, advertising, TV, radio, social media and outdoor billboards in Australia, North America and the U.K.

Further information: https://www.hurtigruten.com/en-au/campaigns/norwegianess

Turkish Airlines and the UN Tourism have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance initiatives promoting sustainable tourism and civil aviation on a global scale. The partnership focuses on aviation development and expanding public and private sector cooperation in air connectivity, especially in emerging destinations. Both parties aim to leverage their expertise by exchanging case studies on topics such as sustainable aviation fuel.

Further information: https://www.turkishairlines.com/fr-int/news-press-release/?p=1

Earth Clipper is Europe’s first hybrid high speed passenger ferry and one of three new vessels operating in collaboration with Uber. The Uber Boat by Thames Clippers plans to run with zero tailpipe emissions in Central London. At 40 metres long, it has a capacity of 230 passengers and will operate solely on battery power allowing sightseers and commuters to make eco-friendly journeys. The company has set a target of achieving net zero by 2040 for the overall business.

Further information: https://www.thamesclippers.com/news/uk-transport-gets-greener-with-arrival-of-first-hybrid-high-speed-passenger-ferry

The world’s largest luxury brand Louis Vuitton is opening a hotel on the world-famous Avenue des Champs Élysées boulevard in Paris in 2026. To hide the construction site, the 6,000 square metre building has been covered with a massive installation of wood and aluminium that replicates the classic monogram trunk of the French Maison. The Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton group already owns other hotels including the Hotel Cheval Blanc within Samaritaine.

Further information: https://www.houseandgarden.co.uk/article/louis-vuitton-hotel-paris

A new hotel chain in Germany called Slube features concrete tubes for up to two people. The tiny home hotel has three locations and each Slube has its own kitchen space, bathroom with shower and toilet, a bedroom with smart TV and a lounge with seating. Guests can also check in and out conveniently via mobile phone without a reception desk.

Further information: https://www.slube.de/

The Design Group is commencing the development of Waimarino (Maori for Still Waters) Luxury Lodge in New Zealand. Located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown, the new luxury lodge is set to redefine the high-end accommodation landscape. Scheduled to open in 2026, the eco-conscious property is dedicated to making a positive impact on the local community with a native tree planted for every guest night booked.

Further information: https://waimarinolodge.co.nz/

The Southern Way is a new marketing campaign encouraging travellers to explore the lower half of the South Island. The initiative is a collective made up of the Southern Airports Alliance and eight Southern Regional Tourism Organisations, supported by Air New Zealand. The campaign encourages visitors to fly into one of three airports (Queenstown, Invercargill, and Dunedin), rent a vehicle to explore the regions and fly home from another airport.

Further information: https://southernway.nz/

UNESCO has added 18 new sites to the Global Geoparks network bringing the total to 213 across 48 countries around the world. The UNESCO Global Geopark designation was created in 2015 and are sites and landscapes of international geological significance managed by a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development. The new geoparks are situated in Brazil, China, Croatia, Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Poland, Portugal and Spain.

Further information: https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/unesco-names-18-new-geoparks

Image: Biokovo-Imotski Lakes UNESCO Global Geopark, Croatia

Bosland in North Limburg has officially been recognised as a National Park by the Flemish Government. Bosland encompasses a unique natural core of more than 6,500 hectares and is home to Cycling through the Trees, a circular voyage that takes cyclists 10 metres above ground to enjoy 360-degree views of the forest canopy. The new park will also receive funding to further develop the grounds by investing in nature development and protection, recreation, tourism and scientific research.

Further information: https://www.nationaalparkbosland.be/over/nationaal-park-bosland/198/

U.S. Private Equity company Apollo is acquiring 18 brands of The Travel Corporation which has been operated by the Tollman family for over 104 years and includes brands such as Trafalgar, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, Contiki, and Insight Vacations. Apollo is a leading asset management firms and its portfolio includes investments in the Expedia Group. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and other conditions.

Further information: https://www.apollo.com/insights-news/pressreleases/2024/07/apollo-funds-to-acquire-the-travel-corporation-2913762

Adelaide Airport and Virgin Australia have undertaken a Try Before You Fly pilot program to support people who view flying as a travel barrier. The new initiative aims to help passengers, families and support workers experience the full airport and boarding process, from arrival to being seated on an aircraft. Other accessibility services include assistance animal relief areas, changing places facilities, meet and assist at accessible drop-off zones, hearing loops, security assistance lane and the sunflower lanyard system.

Further information: https://corporate.adelaideairport.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/VA-Try-Before-you-Fly-web.pdf

Sensory Tourism Australia has launched inclusive and accessible travel products for vision-impaired international visitors. Created by Cocky Guides’ founders, the initiative provides curated packages in Sydney, Melbourne and Cairns which emphasise sensory and tactile experiences guided by experienced tour guides. They work with travellers, travel agents and businesses to create supported travel itineraries.

Further information: https://sensorytourismaustralia.com/

Booking.com has launched its Artificial Intelligence Trip Planner for travellers in Australia and New Zealand, after the initial launch in June 2023 for U.S. and U.K. markets. Travellers or travel agents can ask the AI Trip Planner general travel-related questions or specific queries including scoping out potential destinations and accommodation options, travel inspiration based on the individual’s needs and requirements, as well as creating itineraries for a particular city, country or region.

Further information: https://news.booking.com/bookingcom-launches-new-ai-trip-planner-to-enhance-travel-planning-experience/

The Copenhagen tourist board has launched a trial scheme designed to offset the burden of tourism by offering free food and activities if tourists participate in environmentally friendly tasks while visiting the city. The CopenPay scheme will see tourist attractions offer rewards to visitors for climate-friendly behaviour such as picking up litter, travelling by public transport or biking around the city. Visitors can then claim free Danish pastries, coffees, glasses of wine and kayak rentals in return for their work.

Further information: https://www.visitcopenhagen.com/copenpay

The Zurich Takes Responsibility strategy encourages visitors to use environmentally-friendly mass transit and subsidises hotel partners to pursue sustainability certifications. The strategy is based on the Sustainability Policy which identifies current and socially relevant impacts of tourism within the destination, as well as serves to ensure and implement minimum social and environmental standards in procurement, events, projects, and business travel.

Further information: https://www.zuerich.com/en/about-zt/sustainability

The Slovenian Tourist Board has launched their Summer Safety Appeal: Enjoy Slovenian Nature Responsibly to promote safe visits to mountains in Slovenia. The website offers comprehensive information and recommendations for preparing for tours, understanding mountain characteristics, practicing responsible behaviour in nature and handling emergencies. This information is also distributed through various publications, social media posts, newsletters and podcasts.

Further information: https://www.slovenia.info/en/stories/stay-safe-in-the-mountains

The Travel Corporation’s not-for-profit foundation TreadRight has announced a new partnership with Venice’s Barena Association to help preserve the Northern Venetian Lagoon. It aims to protect the fauna and flora of the unique wetland environment, as well as the culture and traditions surrounding the lagoons. The grant will be used to construct 150 metres of biodegradable barriers called fascines that will be installed with the support of local fishermen and shield the marshes from further erosion.

Further information: https://www.treadright.org/project/barena-association/

Climbers ascending the 3,776-metre Mt Fuji will now have to pay for the privilege as local Japanese authorities are limiting the number of hikers to 4,000 during the climbing season from July to September. The new fee will contribute to cleaning up litter and compensating rescue missions for inexperienced walkers. Each climber will also need to register in advance as a gate has been installed along the Yoshida hiking trail to control the flow of tourists to the upper parts of the mountain.

Further information: https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6901.html

Bespoke tour operator Audley Travel has curated a new Responsible Packing Guide which highlights B Corp certified businesses helping travellers make a positive choice for the planet. The guide includes tips on how to travel sustainably from taking used batteries home to recycle and having a reusable coffee cup and cutlery set handy on excursions, to declining offers of unnecessary items such as duplicate gifts of reusable water bottles. Brands selected for the guide need to sell environmental conscious product, have a focus on plastic reduction, make community or environmental donations and match Audley’s sustainability ethos.

Further information: https://www.audleytravel.com/us/about-us/responsible-travel/responsible-packing-guide

A new digital nomad visa is now available to remote workers who want to live and work in Turkey for up to one year. To be eligible for the visa applicants must be between the ages of 21 and 55 and a citizen of one of 36 countries located throughout Europe and North America. They must also be able to prove they earn at least USD$36,000 per year, have a college degree, are self-employed or employed by a company outside of Turkey, and have a passport that is valid for at least six months.

Further information: https://digitalnomads.goturkiye.com/application-requirements-for-digital-nomad-visa-and-short-term-residence

A new report Climate Justice in Tourism: An Introductory Guide recommends ten actionable ideas for the travel industry to support communities most at risk from climate change including those heavily dependent on tourism. The report is a collaboration between tourism experts the Travel Foundation, the University of Waterloo, Tourism Cares, the Centre for Responsible Travel and Cuidadores de Destinos.

Further information: https://www.thetravelfoundation.org.uk/climatejustice/

UN Tourism has launched the second edition of its Women in Tech Startup Competition which aims to support women entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of sustainable tourism and technology across the Middle East region. Participating enterprises must be operating within the tourism sector or related industries, and offer sustainable solutions for people, the planet, and prosperity.

Further information: https://www.unwto.org/news/un-tourism-launches-women-in-tech-startup-competition-middle-east

A new Wellness Tourism Strategy has been developed by Western Australia’s Southwest Regional Tourism Organisation to guide wellness tourism development in the region for the next 10 years. The comprehensive plan recognises the growth in wellness travel and aims to position the region as Australia’s premier destination for nature-based wellness tourism by 2034. Supported by Tourism Western Australia the strategy includes a toolkit developed to help guide wellness and tourism businesses moving forward.

Further information: https://corporate.australiassouthwest.com/asw-wellness-tourism-strategy/

The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has released the Future Traveller Strategy which addresses the challenges and opportunities of the future of travel. It was developed by the Future Traveller Working Group and makes recommendations for improvements based on consultation with industry representatives, government agencies, and members.

Further information: https://www.australianchamber.com.au/publications/future-traveller-strategy/

The UN Tourism has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Tourism of Zambia to establish the ZITHS Mukuni International Academy for Tourism and Hospitality. The academy will offer a range of courses for new students and established tourism workers to learn the skills needed to find work or advance their careers. The UN Tourism will also establish the Africa International Tourism Academy for Culinary Arts in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe focusing on training professionals across Africa.

Further information: https://www.unwto.org/news/new-academies-in-collaboration-with-un-tourism-planned-for-zambia-and-zimbabwe

Jet2holidays has launched a new hotel sustainability labelling scheme which gives customers and independent travel agents more transparency when opting for a hotel based on its sustainability credentials. Over 800 hotels in the collection are identified on the website by the label ‘Certified Sustainable Hotel’ which meet the Global Sustainable Tourism Council standards.

Further information: https://www.jet2holidays.com/sustainable-hotels

The European Travel Commission and Eurail are searching for the best marketing campaigns that encourage travellers to explore Europe by train in a conscious and environmentally friendly way. The Rail Tourism Awards are open to tourism authorities, destination marketing organisations, rail organisations, and marketing agencies operating in the European travel sector. Qualifying campaigns should centre on highlighting pan-European journeys, as well as national or local routes across European destinations.

Further information: https://railtourismawards.com/

A new report from McKinsey & Company examines the current trends and preferences shaping the industry including shifting source markets and destinations, growing demand for experiential and luxury travel, and innovative business strategies. The 2024 State of Travel and Hospitality Report surveyed more than 5,000 people in China, Germany, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States who had taken at least one leisure trip in the past two years.

Further information: https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/travel-logistics-and-infrastructure/our-insights/the-state-of-tourism-and-hospitality-2024

The American Express Travel Global Travel Trends Report 2024 uncovers the driving forces behind why people are travelling right now. While the preferences and motivations of global travellers vary, they are still focused on creating the right itineraries and building memories, whether that means booking a trip to see a favourite sports team compete or taking a once-in-a-lifetime expedition cruise. The online poll was conducted from January to February 2024 among a sample of 2,005 adults from the United States, Australia, Canada, India, Japan, Mexico and the United Kingdom.

Further information: https://www.americanexpress.com/en-us/travel/discover/get-inspired/global-travel-trends

Tourism Research Australia has released a report which shows the demand for nature-based tourism experiences has grown as visitors are choosing to connect more with Australia’s many unique natural and cultural assets. From 2014 to 2023, the demand for nature-based activities grew by almost 85%, and around 50% more people are enjoying Australia’s stunning great outdoors.

Further information: https://www.austrade.gov.au/en/news-and-analysis/news/the-rise-of-nature-based-tourism-in-australia

Image: People walking at Highfields, Southern Queensland Country. Source: Tourism Australia

UN Tourism and the World Tourism Cities Federation have released a report highlighting the need to measure the social and environmental impact of tourism on urban destinations. The new joint report Quantifying Tourism in City Destinations: Towards A Better Understanding of Urban Tourism assesses the current situation and challenges of tourism data at the city level. It will help advance the creation of a global database of urban tourism enabling benchmarking of size, value and impact, both globally and by region.

Further information: https://www.unwto.org/news/un-tourism-and-wtcf-advance-data-driven-approach-to-city-tourism

A new Transport and Environment report shows cruise ships have doubled in size and the industry is growing with nearly 36 million holidaymakers expected to take a cruise voyage in 2024. The Icon of the Seas which is five times bigger than the Titanic is currently the biggest cruise vessel in the world, transporting 7,600 people with 40 restaurants and 7 swimming pools. The report also calls on cruise liners to invest in green technologies to reduce their impact on the planet and local air pollution.

Further information: https://www.transportenvironment.org/articles/cruisezillas-how-much-bigger-can-cruise-ships-get

The New South Wales Visitor Economy Forum will take place at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on 3 October 2024. The full-day event is aimed at all visitor economy stakeholders including operators, trade partners, industry, and government representatives.

Further information: https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/events/nsw-visitor-economy-forum-2024

The 24th World Travel and Tourism Council Global Summit will be hosted in Perth from 8-10 October 2024. The event aims to set the course for a sustainable future in travel and tourism by spotlighting Australia’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.

Further information: https://wttc.org/events-webinars/global-summit/2024-perth

The Australian Regional Tourism Convention will be held in Mackay from 9-11 October 2024. The forum provides an opportunity to exchange ideas and showcase best practice in the sustainable growth of regional tourism in Australian destinations.

Further information: https://regionaltourism.com.au/convention-2024/

The Australian Indigenous Tourism Conference is being held in Melbourne from 29-31 October 2024. It is being organised by the Western Australian Indigenous Tourism Operators Council in partnership with the Victorian State Government.

Further information: https://www.aitc.org.au/

The Inaugural Innovate for Tomorrow: Climate Action Summit will be hosted in Norway from 30 October to 1 November 2024. The event is aimed at sustainability executives and climate solution innovators from the travel, climate tech, transportation, finance, energy, and media sectors.

Further information: https://events.adventuretravel.biz/sustainability/innovate-for-tomorrow-climate-action-summit-2024