Thursday, May 16, 2024
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.
Tags: Aviation industry, caribbean tourism, New York Events, regional connectivity, tourism development, Travel Industry Professionals
Thursday, May 16, 2024
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.
Thursday, May 16, 2024
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Thursday, May 16, 2024
Indulge in the vibrant culture and stunning mountain vistas of the Mile High City this summer with the Urban Oasis package at Four Seasons Hotel Denver. Tailored for a perfect summer escape, this package unveils a host of enticing amenities: your own Mimosa bar, a generous USD 100 credit at the rooftop pool terrace, complimentary valet parking, and a relaxed late check-out.
Denver, a dynamic cosmopolitan hub, beckons with its array of world-class dining, sports, shopping, and arts. And just a short jaunt away lie Colorado’s breathtaking landscapes, offering outdoor adventures aplenty. Whether you fancy a day traversing the trails of Rocky Mountain National Park or an evening under the stars at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the possibilities for exploration are boundless.
Urban Oasis
Step into a sun-drenched sanctuary in the heart of downtown Denver at Four Seasons Hotel. With the Urban Oasis package, immerse yourself in luxury and convenience. Begin your day with a personalized Mimosa bar in your room, then venture to the rooftop pool terrace where a USD 100 food and beverage credit awaits. Bask in the Colorado sunshine on plush loungers, drink in hand, while gazing at the panoramic city skyline. Valet parking and a leisurely late check-out ensure a seamless and relaxed stay. This package is available for bookings from May 16 to September 30, 2024.
EDGE Restaurant & Bar
Embark on a culinary journey at EDGE Restaurant & Bar, where elevated cuisine and impeccable service await in a sumptuous setting. Renowned as one of the city’s premier steakhouses, indulge in locally-sourced Colorado steaks, fresh sushi and oysters from the raw bar, and a curated selection of fine wines guided by sommelier James Leonard. Every Friday evening, be serenaded by the mesmerizing sounds of live jazz courtesy of Dazzle Denver. Reserve your table at EDGE online or by calling 303 389 3050.
The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Denver
Rejuvenate your senses at the luxurious Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Denver, where unparalleled treatments and amenities await. Unwind in the oversized whirlpool hot tub, indulge in the natural stone steam room, or simply relax in the tranquil lounge. Treat yourself to the Body Brightening Ritual by Sanara, a transformative experience that nourishes the body and soul. Featuring a full-body exfoliation with bamboo fibre and mango seed body polish, followed by a hydrating blend of cupuaçu and Chilean rosehip seed oil, this ritual leaves you feeling refreshed and revitalized, just in time for the warmer weather.
Recently awarded a Michelin Key in the inaugural Michelin Guide hotel category, Four Seasons Hotel Denver promises an award-winning experience for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.
Thursday, May 16, 2024
In March, Japan astounds with over 3M international arrivals, leading global travel trends with soaring momentum, according to Mastercard.
The travel industry is reaching new heights in 2024, with tourism spending and passenger traffic skyrocketing, as revealed in the latest Mastercard Economics Institute (MEI) report. The fifth annual report, “Travel Trends 2024: Breaking Boundaries,” explores the dynamic travel landscape across 74 markets, including 13 in the Asia Pacific region (APAC).
Despite varying exchange rates and affordability challenges, the travel industry is booming. Nine of the last ten record-setting days in global cruise and airline spending have occurred this year. The MEI predicts this trend will continue as consumers prioritize meaningful experiences, allocating more of their budgets to travel.
The report draws on Mastercard’s aggregated and anonymized transaction data, including Mastercard SpendingPulse™ and third-party sources, offering a deep dive into 2024’s tourism trends. Notable themes in APAC include:
“Consumers in the Asia Pacific region have an intense desire and willingness to travel and are becoming increasingly savvy to ensure they get the best value and unforgettable experiences from their trips,” said David Mann, chief economist, Asia Pacific, Mastercard. “For tourism authorities, retailers, the hospitality and F&B sectors, the bottom line is that costs matter. In today’s economy, foreign exchange rates and spending power have become vital components in driving a traveler’s assessment of value when they are making their plans. This suggests that businesses targeting tourism dollars need to review their current strategies, and shift them if necessary, to maintain their appeal to travelers.”
Looking ahead, Munich is set to be the top summer destination due to the UEFA EURO 2024 football championship. Tokyo, Bali, and Bangkok also rank among the top ten cities gaining momentum.
A growing middle class, increased route capacity, and a strong travel desire mean 2024 will see more Indians traveling internationally than ever before. In the first quarter of 2024, 97 million passengers passed through Indian airports, a number that would have taken a year to achieve a decade ago.
In APAC (excluding ANZ), tourists are extending their trips by an average of 1.2 days to 7.4 days, driven by affordability, favorable exchange rates, and warm weather. This trend benefits local economies as longer stays generally translate to more spending per trip.
Globally, consumers continue to prioritize experiences over material goods. Spending on experiences and nightlife has reached its highest point in five years, making up 12% of tourism sales. Australian tourists are the highest spenders in this category, with 19% of their travel budget going towards experiences and nightlife.
Tourists prefer casual fashion and food, except where luxury offers exceptional value. Luxury fashion sales have soared in Japan and Hong Kong SAR, driven by a weak yen and late reopening respectively. Meanwhile, fine dining is thriving in Australia, India, and Thailand, outperforming casual dining.
These trends highlight the evolving preferences and behaviors of travelers, setting the stage for an exciting year ahead in the global travel sector.
“Amidst the evolving tourism landscape and continuing surge in travel throughout 2024, the Mastercard Economics Institute aids businesses and policymakers in translating macroeconomic forces and data insights into actionable strategies at the country, category, and company levels, in addition to counseling on possible scenarios and the implications they have on demand,” added Mann.
Tags: Mastercard news
Thursday, May 16, 2024
Wilmingtonlist is excited to introduce a revolutionary platform designed specifically for local enterprises in the Wilmington, NC Metropolitan Statistical Area. This directory goes beyond traditional models, creating an interactive environment where businesses can interact with the community and promote their products and services.
Wilmingtonlist: Elevating the Business & Services Directory Experience
Wilmingtonlist enables businesses to enhance their visibility by providing a suite of tools that help build engaging profiles, share dynamic content, and develop customer relationships. With features like classified ads, event notifications, blog entries, downloadable materials, job opportunities, video presentations, exclusive promotions, and property listings, businesses can effectively highlight their brand and engage directly with their target audience. This diverse approach redefines how businesses connect and flourish within the Wilmington community.
Fostering Community Involvement
Enhanced Listings:
Business profiles include detailed descriptions, photos, and contact information, giving potential customers everything they need to make well-informed choices. These detailed listings foster trust and credibility, prompting greater interaction with businesses.
Events:
Businesses can promote their local events directly within their directory profiles, turning them into a central place for community members to discover what’s happening locally and engage with different businesses.
Blogs and Resources:
An integrated blog section allows businesses to publish informative content and updates, establishing their authority and building community trust. By delivering pertinent content, businesses draw more attention to their profiles, positioning themselves as industry leaders and enhancing customer connections.
Employment Opportunities:
The job section simplifies recruitment for local companies. Employers can post job vacancies on their profiles, attracting skilled individuals from Wilmington and beyond. This focused exposure helps businesses find suitable candidates while aiding job seekers in finding pertinent roles.
Promotions & Discounts:
The Promotions & Discounts feature helps businesses attract new customers and encourage repeat visits by offering exclusive deals. These promotions not only increase sales but also enhance business visibility, strengthening community ties.
Local News and Information Gateway
Beyond just a directory, businesses can also benefit from exposure via news.wilmingtonlist.com, a portal focusing on local news and lifestyle that features stories about local enterprises, their products, and services. This strategic cross-promotion increases visibility and directs more users to their directory profiles, consolidating Wilmingtonlist as a prime resource for the best local offerings.
Advocating for Local Business Success
Wilmingtonlist is more than just a directory—it’s a platform designed to support local business success through a broad array of tools, including classifieds, event promotion, blogging, file sharing, job listings, videos, deals, and real estate listings. It enables businesses to engage with their community in multiple ways.
For example, the Promotions & Discounts section serves as a marketplace for deals, attracting budget-conscious customers and increasing physical traffic. Additionally, the job board not only facilitates hiring but also showcases a commitment to boosting the local job market.
This comprehensive approach ensures that Wilmingtonlist is not merely a directory but a vibrant community hub where businesses can prosper and residents can explore the best of their city.
Elevate Your Brand with Wilmington NC News Magazine
With the integrated news magazine, Wilmingtonlist extends its offerings. This platform not only covers local news but also spotlights businesses featured in the directory through articles, reviews, and stories, enhancing brand visibility and establishing businesses as credible experts in their industries.
This effective combination of directory and magazine ensures businesses reach a broader audience and engage them with compelling stories and valuable information. Wilmingtonlist is reshaping how local businesses connect with their community, providing a platform for growth, recognition, and sustained success.
Join Today and Experience Growth
Take advantage of this opportunity to join Wilmington’s vibrant business community. Register with Wilmingtonlist and gain immediate access to a suite of powerful tools designed to amplify your presence, connect with your audience, and foster sustainable growth.
Thursday, May 16, 2024
The Union Ministry of Tourism is participating in IMEX, Frankfurt from 14th-16th May 2024 to showcase India as a leading MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) destination to the global market.
IMEX serves as a pivotal platform for the global events industry, offering professionals valuable opportunities to enhance businesses and gain crucial insights.
The Indian tourism ministry has identified MICE as a key sector to combat seasonality and promote India as a year-round destination.
To support this effort, the Ministry has launched ‘Meet in India’ as a specialized sub-brand within the ‘Incredible India’ campaign.
This sub-brand aims to bolster promotional initiatives, highlighting India as an attractive MICE destination with excellent connectivity, state-of-the-art infrastructure, a dynamic knowledge base, and a wealth of unique tourist attractions.
During India’s G20 Presidency, over 200 meetings were held in 56 cities across the nation, boosting both domestic and international tourism.
This platform effectively showcased India’s strong MICE infrastructure and its rich cultural and natural heritage on a global stage.
Building on this momentum, the Ministry of Tourism is striving to position India as a premier global hub for MICE activities.
Significant progress has been made in improving internal connectivity by air and road, easing travel within the country, and opening new facilities for conferences and conventions, positioning India as a top destination.
In 2022, India was ranked 9th in the ICCA (International Congress and Convention Association) ranking of countries in the Asia Pacific region.
Thursday, May 16, 2024
Thursday, May 16, 2024
