Marking its 35th year, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) will highlight the future of regional aviation at Caribbean Week, which will take place from June 16-21, 2024, at the InterContinental Times Square, located in midtown Manhattan.

The event, themed “Connecting the Globe, Celebrating Diversity,” will offer a range of activities focused on innovation and enhancing connections.

One of the central highlights is the Caribbean Airlift Forum, a vital platform for travel industry professionals, journalists, and members of the Caribbean Diaspora to explore air transportation challenges and prospects in the Caribbean.

Rosa Harris, CTO Board of Directors Chairman and the spokesperson for the event, will lead the forum. She pointed out the significance of the discussions, which will delve into topics such as new air routes, competitiveness in aviation, collaborative partnerships, investment in infrastructure, regulatory policies, and strategies for market demand. These discussions aim to improve dialogues between airlines, airports, tourism authorities, and aviation ministries, thereby increasing connectivity and access to Caribbean destinations.

“In the wake of the pandemic, Caribbean aviation has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability, rebounding strongly in key areas. However, as we celebrate these gains during our Caribbean Week in New York, it’s crucial that we don’t become complacent,” stated Harris.

“We must continue to innovate and address the persistent challenges within intra-regional tourism, which, while recovering, remains a challenge for many of our destinations,” she continued. “Our focus at the Caribbean Airlift Forum is not only on celebrating our successes but also on critically analyzing our challenges to strengthen and diversify our connections to, from and across the region, ensuring a more robust and connected Caribbean.”

Additionally, the week will feature a Business and Tourism Marketing Symposium, the Caribbean Media Awards, and sessions that will address topics like artificial intelligence, crisis communications, and multicultural marketing.

Supported by main sponsor the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, along with gold sponsors the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism and the United States Virgin Islands Department of Tourism, and with contributions from Diamonds International and the Caribbean Media Exchange, Caribbean Week in New York 2024 is set to be an essential gathering for tourism experts and stakeholders from the region and the Diaspora.

Recent data has unveiled the top European cities most favored by TikTok users, with Paris securing the third position. Drawing from statistics provided by Statista, marketing analysts at Upbeat Agency meticulously examined the TikTok view counts for each city within the top ten.

Barcelona emerges as the leading European city on TikTok, boasting an impressive 106.1 billion views. The vibrant Spanish capital’s premier tourist destination, Park Guell, welcomed 4.66 million visitors in 2022. Notably, FC Barcelona, a globally renowned football club, garners significant attention on TikTok, featured in 2.4 million posts bearing its hashtag.

Following closely is London, ranking second with 68.6 billion views. The British capital’s iconic British Museum stood as the most frequented attraction in 2023, drawing 5.8 million visitors. Soho claims the title of London’s most TikTok-worthy locale, boasting 132,100 posts.

Paris secures the third spot with 64.8 billion views. In 2023, the Louvre Museum, Paris’ premier attraction, welcomed 8.9 million visitors and starred in 91,100 TikTok videos.

Istanbul clinches the fourth position with 53.1 billion views. Turkey’s bustling metropolis, the world’s most visited city in 2023, greeted 20.2 million visitors. The illustrious Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, a beloved tourist landmark, is featured in 28,400 TikTok posts.

Madrid claims the fifth spot as one of the most ‘TikTokable’ cities, amassing a whopping 32.6 billion views. Among its famed locales, Gran Via stands out, with a staggering 25,200 TikTok posts featuring this bustling area.

Berlin follows in sixth place, boasting 26.1 billion views. The iconic Brandenburg Gate steals the spotlight on TikTok, gracing the platform with 1,089 posts. Ankara secures the seventh position with 23.0 billion views, prominently featuring Ankara Castle in 115 posts.

In eighth place stands Milan, with 13.6 billion views. The majestic Duomo di Milano cathedral steals hearts on TikTok, appearing in 41,500 posts. Hamburg clinches the penultimate spot with 12.1 billion views. Its Miniatur Wunderland captures imaginations, starring in 3,758 posts.

Bringing up the rear is Manchester, boasting 10.1 billion views. Reverberating with football fervor, the city showcases its iconic stadiums. The Etihad Stadium and Old Trafford take center stage, with Manchester City’s grounds featuring in 21,400 posts and Manchester United’s grounds in a staggering 123,800 posts.

Jordan Bucknell, CEO of Upbeat Agency, commented on the findings:  

“The fact that these are the European cities being tagged in the most TikTok posts pays testament to how vibrant and full of interest and life these cities are. 

“There is plenty of history, beauty and fun to be experienced, which is taken advantage of by influencers and travel bloggers to create engaging content. 

“The use of TikTok to create positive content featuring these cities is great promotion and publicity for the cities by highlighting some of the most popular areas as well as smaller, less tourist-focused areas.” 

United Airlines premiered a fresh onboard safety video featuring over a dozen United staff delivering precise, user-friendly demonstrations of essential safety protocols. Shot within a life-sized contraption inspired by airplanes, the video boasts a unique concept aimed at engaging even the most seasoned travelers. Initiated in June 2023, the video’s creation drew inspiration from the synchronized efforts of United’s teams guaranteeing the airline’s safety standards. Beginning May 25, the new video will premiere on specific aircraft and gradually extend to the entire fleet throughout the summer.

“Safety is the foundation of everything we do at United,” said Sasha Johnson, Vice President of Corporate Safety for United. “Safety starts with being prepared. We have ongoing, rigorous safety training for our crews. And we also make sure our customers know what to do in the event of an emergency. We are proud that our new safety video empowers passengers by giving them information and clear instructions.”

United collaborated with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to craft a safety video from October 2023 to March 2024, when it received final approval. This process involved several checkpoints, including thorough reviews of the storyboard and script prior to filming, ensuring adherence to FAA regulations.

United’s Latest Safety Video: A Numerical Overview

Take a look at our newest video titled “Safety in Motion,” featuring a captivating journey of a ball navigating through a sequence of airplane-inspired setups. United staff demonstrate vital safety protocols as the ball travels through various elements such as chutes, a snack cart, seatbelts, windows, seats, directional signage, and beyond. Delve into the behind-the-scenes footage for an exclusive glimpse into the making of this unique presentation.

“The safest safety video is one that passengers actively watch. Our creative concept was inspired by the idea of connection and the many moments of any given day that our employee work groups have to connect to be able to get thousands of flights off the ground and to their destinations safely,” said Maggie Schmerin, Chief Advertising Officer for United. “We worked across the airline to ensure our new safety video clearly and succinctly communicates critical information in a way passengers can’t help but watch – no matter their age, background or experience traveling.”

United Airlines produced 171 tailored versions of their safety video to suit their 8 distinct aircraft models, accommodating 20 different seating arrangements and available in 18 languages. The endeavor spanned ten months, commencing with creative development in June 2023, followed by filming in October of the same year. Five months were then dedicated to editing and translating the video before receiving FAA approval in March 2024.

The video features a Rube Goldberg machine with 12 unique components through which a ball travels. It involved the collaboration of 17 employees from various departments within the airline, including flight attendants, pilots, customer service agents, ramp service personnel, tech operations specialists, network operations center staff, and reservations team members. Over 1,000 real dominoes were used in the production.

Adding to the video’s charm is the inclusion of “Rhapsody in Blue,” a century-old song by George Gershwin that has been a consistent element in United’s safety videos over the years. The intricate camera production for the video was executed through a collaboration between United Airlines, their creative agency of record, 72andSunny, production partner 1stAveMachine, and renowned director Karim Zariffa.

Safety Training Investments United

“Ensuring Passenger Safety” exemplifies crucial safety protocols enforced by the FAA across all U.S. airlines, pivotal for passenger well-being during emergencies. United Airlines showcases authentic employees in the instructional video, who regularly undergo updated training sessions throughout their tenure with the company. For instance, pilots undergo simulator training with instructors and evaluators every nine months, while flight attendants renew their qualifications every 18 months.

United recently inaugurated a new 150,000 square-foot edifice at its Flight Training Center in Denver, further enhancing the world’s largest facility of its kind. With a total of eight buildings spanning over 700,000 square feet of training space, the Flight Training Center now boasts 52 state-of-the-art full-motion flight simulators, augmenting training capacity for the airline’s 17,000 pilots.

Moreover, last year, United expanded its primary Inflight Training Center in Houston, incorporating new classrooms, additional cabin and door trainers, and a cutting-edge aquatic center for practicing safe plane evacuations in water scenarios.

Since 2020, United has mandated pilots to engage in annual Pilot Professional Development training, surpassing FAA requirements and industry standards. This comprehensive, day-long, interactive session involves all pilots, not solely captains, and integrates real United case studies to foster self-awareness, confidence, mentoring, and leadership skills. Collaborating closely with its Flight Training, Flight Standards, Aviation Safety teams, and ALPA, United ensures a curriculum entirely focused on safety.

Owning a dream vacation home in Greece and securing a Golden Visa with Permanent Residency is about to become pricier for everyone starting August 31, 2024. In September, the Greek government will enact new legislation that will double the minimum investment required for international citizens to acquire real estate in Greece.

Leptos Estates, a leading real estate and property development company specializing in residential, commercial, and holiday properties, including upscale apartments and luxury villas in Greece and Cyprus, is extending an invitation to affluent individuals and investors from India to act promptly and make their property investments in Greece before the regulations change later this year.

In recent years, Greece’s Golden Visa Programme, launched in 2013, has experienced a surge in popularity and demand, prompting the Greek government to reconsider the investment thresholds for real estate and Permanent Residency.

Under the new regulations expected to take effect on August 31, 2024, Greece’s Golden Visa Program will introduce two minimum investment tiers for real estate transactions in the country. In Tier I, encompassing sought-after areas like Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and the islands, the minimum investment is projected to increase to €800,000 from the current €500,000. Meanwhile, in Tier II, covering all other regions of Greece, the entry point will rise to €400,000 from the current €250,000.

“As the deadline approaches, prices are expected to surge, potentially making the dream of owning a Greek home less attainable for Indian investors. We urge high net-worth individuals and investors to grab this unique once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure Permanent Residency in Greece while enjoying the chance to make promising returns on their investment at a minimum cost of an affordable €250,000. Once the new rules come into effect, the cost will double, and it will be a great chance missed. We have some aesthetically and sustainably designed, fully functional apartments and villas across Greece and in regions like Paros Crete, and Santorini that would make great homes for global citizens,” said Sanjay Sachdev, Group Marketing Director, Leptos Estates.

Investors still have the opportunity to apply under the current €250,000 minimum threshold by making a 10% deposit before August 31, 2024, and completing the investment by December 31, 2024.

Owning both a home and obtaining Permanent Residency in one of the world’s oldest civilizations offers numerous advantages. These include visa-free travel within Europe’s Schengen area, substantial returns from Greece’s thriving real estate market, delightful year-round weather, and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the charming Mediterranean culture.

The Residency extends to the entire family, including the spouse, children under 21 years old, and the parents of the main applicant and spouse, with the added possibility of applying for citizenship.

Foreign property owners in Greece are not obligated to reside in the country, and residency permits can be obtained within six months. Moreover, owners have the flexibility to rent out their investment property if desired.

Malaysia is rapidly becoming a top choice for Gen Z travelers, thanks to its diverse offerings and vibrant culture. Known for its stunning beaches in Langkawi and Borneo, bustling cities, and scenic highlands like Cameron Highlands, Malaysia offers a unique blend of adventure, luxury, and affordability.

The country’s focus on sustainable tourism, rich biodiversity, and eco-friendly initiatives, such as its seven geoparks and ancient rainforests, attract eco-conscious young travelers. With excellent connectivity, traveler-friendly visa policies, and a thriving food and shopping scene, Malaysia stands out as a dynamic and welcoming destination for the new generation of explorers.

In an exclusive interview at Arabian Travel Market 2024 with Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan, Editor-in-Chief of Travel And Tour World, Datuk Dr. Yasmin Mahmood, Chairman of the Malaysia Tourism Board, Tourism Malaysia shared her vision for the future of Malaysia’s tourism industry. Emphasizing the sector’s significant contribution to the country’s GDP, Dr. Mahmud outlined strategies to boost tourism and attract international visitors under the banner of “Malaysia Truly Asia.”

Strategic Focus on Diverse Offerings

Datuk Dr. Yasmin Mahmood, Chairman of the Malaysia Tourism Board, Tourism Malaysia shares to our editor-in-chief also highlighted Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity and natural beauty, positioning the country as a versatile destination for both leisure and business travelers. She emphasized the importance of promoting affordable luxury escapades for families, young couples, and Gen Z travelers. Key attractions include Malaysia’s pristine beaches, such as those in Langkawi and Borneo, as well as its vibrant cities and cool highland retreats like Cameron Highlands.

Post-Pandemic Recovery and Upcoming Initiatives

Following the pandemic, Malaysia is focusing on regaining tourism momentum, aiming for a successful Visit Malaysia Year in 2026. The country is rapidly catching up to pre-pandemic visitor numbers, with significant growth expected this year. Datuk Dr. Yasmin Mahmood, Chairman of the Malaysia Tourism Board, Tourism Malaysia stressed the importance of working with airlines, airports, and global partners to drive demand and convert it into actual visitation.

Sustainability and Ecotourism

Sustainability is a cornerstone of Malaysia’s tourism strategy. Datuk Dr. Yasmin Mahmood, Chairman of the Malaysia Tourism Board, Tourism Malaysia underscored the development of ecotourism as a key initiative, highlighting the preservation of natural resources and biodiversity. Malaysia’s seven geoparks, including the Mulu Caves and Danum Valley in Borneo, offer unique attractions for eco-conscious travelers. The focus on sustainability extends to promoting indigenous cultures and practices that harmonize with nature.

Enhanced Connectivity and Visa Policies

Improving connectivity is crucial for tourism growth. Malaysia is enhancing direct flights through partnerships with local and international airlines, including a recent collaboration with Emirates Air. Additionally, Malaysia‘s visa policies are among the most traveler-friendly, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival options for many countries, including China and India.

MICE Industry and Medical Tourism

Malaysia is also strengthening its position in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry, offering financial assistance and logistical support for events. The country is becoming a preferred destination for medical tourism, known for its high standards of healthcare and Muslim-friendly facilities.

The Datuk Dr. Yasmin Mahmood, Chairman of the Malaysia Tourism Board, Tourism Malaysia comprehensive vision aims to make Malaysia a top global destination by leveraging its diverse attractions, strategic partnerships, and commitment to sustainability.

This summer, brace for Uber thrilling launch of a revolutionary shuttle service, set to transform airport rides with excitement.

This summer, Uber is set to introduce its Uber Shuttle service in the United States, offering convenient transportation to events and airports, the company announced at a recent event in New York City.

Currently available in Egypt and India, the Uber Shuttle service allows users to reserve a seat on a local shuttle heading to the same destination as other riders, all for a fraction of the price of an UberX. This innovative service aims to provide a more affordable ride option for those looking to get to concerts, sporting events, and airports.

Affordable and Convenient Airport Shuttles

Although Uber has not yet disclosed which airports will have the shuttle service available, the company is actively working with airport partners and local officials across the U.S. and beyond. Their goal is to bring a convenient and affordable airport shuttle service to riders, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Expanding Event Transportation Options

Uber Shuttle is also set to become the official rideshare partner of select Live Nation amphitheaters, bringing the service to various venues nationwide. In addition, Uber is partnering with Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, home to the Miami Dolphins, Formula One Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix, and premier concerts and events. This partnership aims to make it easier for attendees to reach these high-profile events without the hassle of finding parking or dealing with traffic.

Easy Booking and Transparent Pricing

When the service becomes available, customers will see a ‘Shuttle’ option in the Uber app. Riders can book up to five seats from seven days in advance to five minutes before the scheduled departure. Payments and shuttle tracking will be available within 25 minutes of departure, all managed through the Uber app. Riders will know their fare upfront, unaffected by surge pricing, ensuring cost transparency and predictability.

Upon arrival, riders will have their QR-code ticket validated by the driver. They can also rate and tip their drivers through the app, just as with other Uber rides.

Future Prospects for Uber Shuttle

Uber sees significant potential for Uber Shuttle to be included in its Uber for Business offerings. Since 2021, the company has been operating shuttle routes for its employees in the Mission Bay office in San Francisco, as well as for employees in Seattle and Bangalore, India. Uber has also started offering shuttle services to Uber for Business clients in some international markets and foresees definite potential to expand this service to more U4B clients in the U.S.

As Uber Shuttle prepares to launch this summer, it promises to offer an affordable, convenient, and efficient transportation option for a wide range of users, enhancing their travel and event-going experiences.