World News

It's no secret that the cruise industry has transformed itself in recent years: shaking off outdated stereotypes and working hard to keep cruising relevant for the modern traveller. These days you'll find cutting edge cruise ships with thrilling on-board activities and a wide range of state-of-the-art facilities as standard - and it's not about to stop there

Cruise lines are already ordering world-class ships that will come into service in 10 years' time. To ensure these ships will impress passengers in 2027 and beyond, innovation and forward-thinking is vital. So, what will the cruise ships of the future look like? Here, the experts at Cruise Nation share their insights

Screens, Screens, Screens

Forget about one strategically positioned TV on the wall in your cabin. Soon, LED screens will feature on the walls, ceilings and even floors of cruise ships. Royal Caribbean has already created virtual balconies, bringing ocean views to every inner stateroom - but this is just the beginning. In the future, it'll be the norm to use LED visual display technology to create illusions and enhance the ambience of the public spaces throughout the ship

Personalised Experience

Wearable technology has already been adopted by Princess Cruises, who have given their device a catchy name – Ocean Medallion – but, in the future, it will be used for more than just room access and paying for cocktails. As cruise lines look to provide a personalised experience for each traveller, devices worn by guests will inform bar tenders of a customer's name and favourite drink, alert waiting staff if it's someone's birthday or anniversary and tailor activity suggestions based on repetitive behaviour of the wearer

Your Own Virtual Butler

Voice activated in-room assistants will act as personal butlers from the moment a customer enters their stateroom. Without lifting a finger, guests will be able to ask their assistant to make dinner arrangements, book last minute excursions or even have a hire car delivered to the port for when they dock. Virtual assistants will also make sure customers never get caught without sun cream or an umbrella again by giving an accurate weather report for the ship's next destination

Robotic Bartenders and Floating Platforms

State of the art engineering is enabling the cruise industry to take bold and exciting steps when it comes to futuristic design concepts on board. Royal Caribbean has introduced the 'Rising Tide Bar' which moves between floors as guests enjoy their cocktails and the 'Bionic Bartenders' – robots that mix your drinks. We expect to see many more incredible engineering ideas setting sail soon, many of which would be impressive on dry land let alone at sea. The first being the 'Magic Carpet' on the Celebrity Edge, which launches in 2018. The Magic Carpet is already causing ripples of excitement in the cruising world as it'll be the world's first cantilevered floating platform to hang off the side of the ship

Visit the Destination Before You Arrive

As virtual reality technology becomes more advanced, it will be used to give customers a real-life experience of the destinations they are about to visit. Watching short videos will be long gone, replaced by the ability to experience the heat, wind and even local smells before travellers arrive. We also expect cruise companies to invest more in virtual reality gaming for children, and any big kids, onboard. Next-level technology will enable players to be present in a three-dimensional environment and interact with live characters or situations within the game

Reducing Environmental Impact

Cruise liners are already investing in environmentally friendly initiatives around waste disposal and water efficiency to reduce their carbon footprint. The next step is to pay closer attention to the ships themselves to ensure the next generation of vessels will have as little impact on the environment as possible. Royal Caribbean's Icon Class ships, planned for 2022, will be powered by liquefied natural gas and use fuel cell technology to reduce gas emissions. Plans are also in place for what is being dubbed the 'World's Greenest Cruise Ship' which will use retractable solar panels and a future-ready hybrid engine.

Holographic staff

Friendly holographic staff will soon be available for real-time interactions with customers at hundreds of touch-points around cruise ships. Acting as virtual information points, the holographic helpers will give on board directions, answer customer questions and make important announcements to a crowd or a room full of people.

There's never been a better time to catch the fitness bug, so why not get your fitness fix on holiday? Gone are the days of the mundane gym class; instead, increasingly alternative workouts are springing up worldwide to cater for fitness fans who demand more from their exercise. Fitness retreats worldwide are subsequently pushing the boundaries of what classifies as a workout; providing exciting new ways to exercise beyond the gym floor.

It's time to ditch the treadmill, as Health and Fitness Travel, the wellness holiday specialists, has trawled the globe to discover the world's most unusual fitness classes. From facial gymnastics in Italy to laughter therapy in India, these alternative holiday workouts offer individuality worth travelling for.

Try 'Spoga' in St Lucia: BodyHoliday Yoga

For those whose idea of a perfect workout is to sweat then stretch, look no further, as BodyHoliday's 'Spoga' class is the answer to your prayers. 'Spoga' complements the current trend for hybrid fitness classes, providing you with 20 minutes of spin class and 20 minutes of yoga. This workout is certain to boost your overall wellness, as the relaxation of yoga will repair the body after such high intensity calorie-burning. Relish the soul-soaring views of the glossy green St Lucian jungle, as you enjoy Spoga classes in a luxurious glass treehouse.

Try 'RIP Trainer' in India: Atmantan Fitness

Beautiful views, lavish rooms and fine dining food; Atmantan is the luxurious haven you deserve to return home to after a vigorous workout. Deadly as it may sound, the 'RIP trainer' provides an effective workout for improving core strength, burning calories and increasing cardiovascular endurance. It will soon become your favourite TRX tool, as the level bar fitted with an innovative resistance cord is great for muscle-defining rotational exercise. Once you're done, relax and unwind at Atmantan's blissful spa, with healing treatments that will rejuvenate both inside and out.

Try 'Fit & Face' in Italy: Lefay Fusion Fitness

Throw out the makeshift anti-wrinkle creams, and get active about your looks with facial gymnastics. Lefay's 'Fit & Face' class provides therapeutic facial exercises that lift and tighten your muscles, giving you naturally youthful results that everyone will notice. Bask in the tranquillity of this peaceful sanctuary, and alleviate years of built-up muscular tension. This workout not only counters ageing effects on the face, but has an anti-stress element that will make your entire body smile. Afterwards, take your new look for a spin, and venture out around the luscious greenery of the Gargano mountains.

Try 'Laughter Therapy' in India: SwaSwara Rejuvenation and Yoga

Laughter is indisputably the finest medicine, and the perfect alternative to western pharmaceuticals. Feel organically restored as you take part in holistic laughter and breathing exercises, and engage in group meditation under SwaSwara's large Banyan tree. This treatment is designed to lower blood pressure, boost your immune system and, most importantly, will leave you beaming from ear to ear. Enjoy a spine-tingling rush of endorphins as you laugh out loud and relieve yourself of negative emotion. SwaSwara's infectiously positive environment is sure to leave you feeling giddy with glee.

A new range of limited edition amenity kits from luxury luggage brands BRIC’S and Nappa Dori have made their debut on board Qatar Airways flights for passengers flying in First Class and Business Class.

BRIC’S limited edition luxury amenity kits come in a selection of four colours for autumn – yellow, navy blue, blush and tan – and will be presented to passengers flying long-haul in First Class and Business Class.

First and Business Class passengers travelling on Qatar Airways’ medium-haul routes will be offered amenity kits from leading fashion brand Nappa Dori featuring a new series of destination images printed on the kits canvas exterior, including Thailand, the Netherlands, China and Doha. Frequent travellers can add the new keepsake designs from both brands to their collections, which combine vintage and contemporary styles and contain a range of must-have handy travel accessories.

First Class and Business Class long-haul passengers can enjoy a luxury amenity bag created exclusively for Qatar Airways by stylish Italian luggage brand BRIC’S. The miniature versions of the Bellagio and Sintesis suitcase features a hard-shell with a Tuscan leather trim. Each bag contains exclusive products from Italy’s Castello Monte Vibiano Vecchio, the environmentally friendly olive oil company. The skin care range includes lip balm, hydrating facial mist, and anti-ageing moisturiser in Business Class, with added Night Recovery Cream for First Class kits. Socks, eyeshades and ear plugs complete the range with the addition of a BRIC’S signature luggage tag for First Class.

Medium-haul customers flying in First Class and Business Class enjoy bespoke luxury amenity kits developed by artisan brand, Nappa Dori, which has gained global recognition for its luxury handcrafted travel and fashion accessories. The kits feature select images from destinations around the world served by Qatar Airways, and contain socks, eyeshades and lip balm from Castello Monte Vibiano Vecchio.

This is just the latest initiative taken by Qatar Airways to enhance its service for passengers. Last month, the airline announced the launch of a new Pre-Select Dining service, allowing First and Business Class passengers to pre-select one main course from the à la carte on-board menu as far as 14 days in advance and up to 24 hours before take-off.

With just over 37,000 human inhabitants in an area the size of California, the Yukon has a lot of space for wildlife. From broad uninhabited valleys to crystal-clear rivers and endless mountain peaks, more than 80 percent of the Yukon landmass is wilderness. Its home to more than 250,000 caribou, 70,000 moose, 22,000 mountain sheep, 6,000 grizzly bears, 10,000 black bears, 1,500 polar bears and 284 species of birds.

It's no surprise then that seeing wildlife is a highlight of a visit to the Yukon. And on just about any road, anywhere in the Yukon, it is not at all uncommon to see wildlife.

More than a quarter of Canada's grizzly bears live here, making it one of the best places anywhere to see one. Sightings of both grizzly and black bears from the side of the road, while hiking and paddling, or even from the air are common.

Shorter summers in the North mean that grizzlies must be as efficient as possible in preparing for their long winter hibernation. They depend on thick crops of berries and seasonal runs of salmon to fatten up. In an autumn feeding frenzy, a grizzly can eat 200,000 berries in a single day!

One of the most unique bear viewing opportunities takes place at Bear Cave Mountain. In a remote location near the Arctic Circle, thermal springs create a turbulent effect in the river water, preventing it from freezing, creating the perfect habitat for salmon. Grizzly bears are attracted to this bounty and are able to fish much later than elsewhere. Long after the snow starts falling, grizzlies congregate here to feast, which has earned them the moniker “Ice Bears” due to water that freezes in their long winter fur. Visitors tell stories of the ice 'tinkling like a chandelier” while the bears walk along the waters' edge. With only a handful of guests permitted at any one time, and exceptional photographic opportunities, it's a remarkable experience.

It's not all about the bears though. The Yukon is witness every year to many spectacular wildlife migrations. Watch as thousands of salmon make their way up the longest wooden fish ladder in the world in Whitehorse. On land the Porcupine Caribou Herd, the fifth largest herd in North America, ranges over its vast territory in northern Yukon. The herd can be seen in spring and fall as it migrates along the Dempster Highway corridor from south to north, and back again, often in groups of hundreds or even thousands.

And during spring and fall the skies over the Yukon come alive with thousands upon thousands of migratory birds as they make their way along the Pacific Flyway. Several of these migrations are celebrated in festivals throughout the Yukon. During the Celebration of Swans at Marsh Lake near Whitehorse, approximately 3,000 swans and thousands of other waterfowl stopover on their spring migration north. At the Crane and Sheep Viewing Festival in Faro an estimated quarter of a million Sandhill Cranes pass through on their spring migration to summer nesting grounds. Tombstone Territorial Park provides habitat to 148 species and the annual birding festival Weekend on the Wing offers an opportunity to see many migratory birds. Environment Yukon offers these as well as other wildlife and bird viewing programs.

Guests from abroad often name Heidelberg as their favorite destination in Germany. Around 12 million guests a year make their way to explore the flair of the historic university town in a picturesque location. The city on the Neckar not only offers magnificent history, but also advanced modernity, culture, entertainment, diverse shopping possibilities and a varied gastronomy for all requirements.

In addition to the Heidelberg Castle, Schwetzingen is particularly well worth seeing, as is the world-famous Speyer cathedral. The wine and asparagus region of Kraichgau, attractive golf courses, the Wirsol Rhein-Neckar-Arena and the bathing area in Sinsheim offer a great experience in the surroundings.

And who would have thought that the first “gas station” in the world could be found in the neighboring wine-growing city of Wiesloch! In August 1888, Bertha Benz, the wife of the Baden-based automobile inventor Carl Benz, was driving from Mannheim to Pforzheim with her two sons with her car, the Benz Patent Motor Car No. 3. On this first long-distance journey of world history, the three automakers south of Heidelberg, however, ran out of fuel. The light-weight Ligroin, which was offered as a cleaning agent at that time, was fortunately on purchase in the Wiesloch City Pharmacy. Thus Bertha Benz was able to continue her journey with a full tank. The City Pharmacy became the first gas station in the world, its pharmacist Ockel the first gas station attendant ever! The pharmacy still exists today and can be visited. There is also a specially designed Bertha Benz Memorial Tour for interested tourists.

1. KFC is the traditional meal on Christmas Eve 

2. Mountains, mountains everywhere 

3. It's good manners to slurp your noodles 

4. There's a Rabbit Island in Japan 

5. The number four is unlucky 

6. There's a naked festival Japan 

7. Japan's trains are some of the worlds most punctual 

8. The Japanese love wacky flavours 

9. Everyone has their own family seal 

10. Anti-ninja floors 

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has activated its "CTO Relief Fund" through GoFundMe to help families and countries rebuild after hurricanes, particularly in the wake of the massive category 5 Hurricane Irma, which has impacted a number of member countries.

All of the money raised through the CTO's Relief Fund will be sent directly to CTO-member destinations affected by the catastrophic storm, which hit some countries with winds up to 185 mph.

"The damage caused by the force of Hurricane Irma is an important example of why we must do whatever is possible to provide financial relief to those who need it most. It's through this fund that the CTO channels monetary assistance to our impacted member states," CTO secretary general Hugh Riley said. "The CTO appreciates all donations to assist in the recovery efforts in these countries."

For more information on CTO's Relief Fund or to make a donation, visit www.gofundme.com/hurricane-relief-fund-cto.

In March 2018, a bold Secret Compass team of 12 will leave life's responsibilities and excesses at the desert's edge, to undertake a tough traverse of Sudan's Bayuda desert by foot and camel. Bound on three sides by a giant 600km bend in the meandering River Nile, the Bayuda Desert route has been crossed by desert nomads for centuries, connecting the north and south of the ancient Kingdom of Kush.

A new venture for 2018, this 280km journey will follow a route steeped in history, a shortcut between Nile communities and the route taken by the Gordon Relief Expedition – a desperate military march across Egypt and Sudan to relieve General Gordon and the siege of Khartoum. The historic significance of this lifeline route combined with the parched landscape of sand sheets, acacia forests and yellow, ochre and brown rocky outcrops provides a grand sense of perspective to complement a back-to-basics desert adventure; top and tailed by the mesmerising ruins of the Meroë and Nuri pyramids and temples still standing at each end.

“Secret Compass is no stranger to this remote eastern region of the Sahara,” explains Tom McShane, Operations Director at Secret Compass. “We led the first commercial expedition across the Bayuda in 2013, before planning and leading the Sudan phase of Levison Wood's trademark adventure; Walking the Nile.”

On his epic journey, Levison walked over 4,000 miles from the source of the Nile in Rwanda to the Nile delta in Egypt where it flows into the Mediterranean Sea. Part of this journey saw him make a testing crossing of the Bayuda Desert in blistering summer heat. Making the crossing in March rather than July, this Secret Compass team can expect much cooler temperatures than those experienced by Levison.

However, the team mates will undoubtedly face the harsh realities of desert life on this testing expedition, connecting wadis and wells to water their camels and preparing for the possibility of sandstorms on the way. But with great challenges come even greater rewards, and Project Manager, Amy Bibby, explains that this is no regularly-trodden tourist trail: “To our knowledge, no other commercial teams have made this crossing, which will put the individuals in this 2018 team in the select company of a few privileged explorers to have ever made this journey.”

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) continue to receive updates from their members in the northern Leeward Islands and the northern Caribbean following the passage of Hurricane Irma.

Following is an update regarding Irma’s impact on Caribbean destinations, as well as reports from CHTA-member hotels.

Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua was not impacted minimally by Hurricane Irma with electricity being restored to the capital, St. John’s and most parts of the island. The V.C. Bird International Airport opened for all flights on Thursday, 7 September.

On the other hand, Barbuda, with its approximately 1,800 residents, was severely impacted by the hurricane which passed directly over the small island, resulting in one fatality. The prime minister, Gaston Browne said 90 per cent of homes were destroyed. Barbuda’s hotel infrastructure was also damaged, but with less than 100 hotel rooms the overall effect on tourism as a whole is minimal.

Updates from individual hotels on Antigua are as follows:

          Curtain Bluff: The property emerged from the storm without any damage, and all staff and their families are unharmed. The clean up of the property has begun and communications will soon be restored.

·         Cocos Hotel: No long term damage

·                     Galley Bay: Guests are safe. An in-depth assessment of the property will take place on September 21.

·                     Hermitage Bay: A little waterlogged from the swells, otherwise all is well.

·                     Jumby Bay Island: There is no structural damage to any of the resort or homes. A landscaping clean-up will be needed, however. Jumby Bay Island is currently closed as part of its annual maintenance programme and therefore no guests were on the island when Hurricane Irma passed. The reopening remains on schedule for 9 October, 2017.

·                     Keyonna Beach Resort: No long term damage.

·                     Pineapple Beach Club: Guests are safe. Scheduled to welcome guests starting 14 September .

·                     St. James Club: Guests are safe. Scheduled to welcome guests starting 14 September .

·                     Verandah: Guests are safe. Will reopen as scheduled on 14 October after renovations.

Anguilla

Anguillians are breathing a sigh of relief as Hurricane Jose largely bypassed the island, which was under a tropical storm watch on Saturday, 9 September. Islanders are moving swiftly to rebuild. The Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA) is now open from sunrise to sunset for charters and emergency flights. The Road Bay Port at Sandy Ground has also reopened and can now receive cargo.

The governor and chief minister are continuing to assess the damage, identify priorities, and coordinate the response through the National Emergency Operations Centre. Aid from the United Kingdom in the form of food, water, medical supplies and technical support has begun to arrive on the island. Community volunteers are fully engaged in the massive clean-up campaign, with centres for the collection of debris from the storm established in key areas around the island.

Many properties are still conducting assessments, but following is a brief update from select stakeholders on island. Additional property updates will be issued as they are made available.

Anguilla Resort Hotels

Carimar Beach Club Management and staff are safe and Carimar is standing strong. The garden looks a little worse for the wear and a few doors and windows were damaged. The clean-up has begun and management will advise of the reopening date, now that Jose has passed.

CeBlue Villas & Beach Resort - Staff are safe and the resort had no guests as it was already closed for the season. The villas and resort buildings held up well against the hurricane and they are all structurally sound. The resort has begun the clean up process, and looks forward to welcoming guests for the season.

Fountain Anguilla The Fountain buildings and grounds are structurally intact. A few of the units suffered some damage from debris. Assessment and clean up are under way and the resort is expected to open for the season.

CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa and The Reef by CuisinArt This property was significantly affected, and engineers are currently assessing the full extent of the damage. The ownership and management have said they are steadfastly committed to restoring, rebuilding and reopening, as well as doing everything possible to help and support their employees through this most difficult time.

Malliouhana, an Auberge Resort Upon preliminary review there appears to be no major structural damage to the resort. The team is now assessing the extent of the clean up required and will advise on their proposed reopening date.

Quintessence Boutique Resort The property sustained a fair amount of damage, but nothing that can’t be repaired. However, the proposed 1 November opening will be delayed.

Zemi Beach House Zemi Beach had closed to guests in advance of the hurricane. The property held strong during the storm and will be able to welcome guests k before long, although the timing is still uncertain.  .

Anguilla Villas

Neveah Villa This property suffered only cosmetic damage. A clean up of the grounds is under way.

Sunset Homes Properties Spyglass Hill will be ready for reopening on 1 November; Little Butterfly survived intact.

Bird of Paradise Bird of Paradise was designed to withstand r 200 mph winds. There was no structural damage to the buildings or to the roof, nor was there any damage to the contents of the villa.

Anguilla Restaurants

Blanchards received moderate damage and Blanchards Beach Shack is in great shape, requiring just a little clean-up. The owners expect to be able to open both restaurants as soon as the major resorts are open.

daVida Restaurant & Bayside The main restaurant is still intact. However, the canape on the second floor of the loft was lost. The Bar at the Bayside is still intact, but the dining area will be rebuilt. The staff are all safe.

Garveys, Pumphouse and Mango’s were devastated, while Dune Preserve, Elvis’ Beach Bar, Dolce Vita and Ripples also suffered severe damage. Jacala, Geraud’s Patisserie and Grands Vins de France all survived. Johnno’s, Dads, and Picante are still standing, but will require some repairs.

The Islands of The Bahamas

The Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau is open and international flights are beginning to return to The Bahamas. The remaining airports will resume operations once they have been assessed and cleared for opening by aviation officials.

Additionally, the Port of Nassau reopened on Sunday,10 September. However, no vessels are expected to arrive until Wednesday, 13 September. All other ports remain closed at this time. Cruise reservation holders should check directly with their cruise provider for updates on departures and itineraries.

There are currently no reports of severe damage to the tourism product throughout the islands.

Below is information on hotel status at this time. Reservation holders should contact properties directly for complete information.

Nassau and Paradise Island

·                     Atlantis, Paradise Island – open

·                     Sandals Royal Bahamian – open

·                     Warwick Paradise Island – Bahamas – open

·                     Breezes Resort & Spa – Bahamas - Open

·                     Baha Mar Resort and Casino – open Tuesday, 12 September

·                     Melia Nassau Beach Resort – open Wednesday, 13 September

The Exumas

·                       Sandals Emerald Bay – open

British Virgin Islands

The destruction caused by Hurricane Irma in the British Virgin Islands has been devastating, according to a statement from Sharon Flax-Brutus, the director of tourism. With cell phone towers down and power outages, communication to, from and within, the territory has been difficult, impacting the ability to fully assess the damage. The destination has lost entire structures and many homes are without roofs, or have been diminished to mere foundations.

The Government has begun to coordinate humanitarian relief efforts and an initial clean-up operation. The United Kingdom government has sent relief and support.

Updates from individual hotels in the British Virgin Islands are as follows:

·                     Anegada Reef: Anegada is fine.

·                     Bitter End Yacht Club: The hotel was not operational due to annual closure.

·                     Guana Island: Closed at the time  All guests and on-island staff are safe  .

·                     Rosewood Little Dix Bay: Rosewood Little Dix Bay is currently closed for renovation and therefore no guests were present at the resort.

·                     Scrub Island: All guests and associates are safe.

·                     Sugar Mill Hotel: The hotel has suffered some damage but so far it appears manageable. The restaurant is expected to open as planned on 12 October, 2017 and 14 October for the hotel.

 Cuba

Hurricane Irma passed over the northern portion of Cuba. It has been reported that Havana has experienced major flooding, power has been knocked and widespread wind damage has impacted the area. Ten people have died in Cuba, according to state television reports issued on 11 Septemer.

Dominican Republic

Punta Cana International Airport has resumed normal operations following the passage of Hurricane Irmat. The area’s hotel sector is reporting no major damage. Damaged homes and flooded streets in Cabarete and Sosua have been reported.

Barceló Resorts: Barceló Hotel Group confirmed that all of the brand’s resorts in the Dominican Republic are fully operational.

Viva Wyndham Playa Dorada: The hotel is open and operating.

Haiti

Haiti was relatively unscathed. All services remain in operation and the country continues to welcome visitors. Travellers are advised to contact their local travel or booking agent for detailed arrangements about their bookings.

Moulin Sur Mer has advised it was not affected by Hurricane Irma.

Puerto Rico

The Puerto Rico Tourism Company (PRTC) is reporting that major tourism infrastructure and attractions are operational and the island can continue to welcome new visitors. The PRTC said while there have been power outages, many hotels, as well as essential services such as hospitals, have generators and are operational. The majority of hotels throughout mainland Puerto Rico are ready to welcome new guests. Attractions such as parks and beaches are currently being assessed to ensure a committed focus on quick clean up in the coming days.

Flights to and from Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport have resumed. Puerto Rico’s port is operational and started receiving ships on 9 September.

Updates from individual hotels in Puerto Rico are as follows:

·                        Condado Plaza Hilton: Minor damage.

·                        El Conquistador Resort: El Conquistador Resort is operational. Las Casitas Village will reopen when electricity is restored.

·                        El San Juan Hotel: The hotel received minimal damage and will reopen as soon as  power is restored.

·                        Hotel El Convento: The hotel escaped damage. Operations were due to resume on 11 September.

·                        Hyatt House San Juan: The hotel is open and operating.

·                        Hyatt Place Bayamon: Open and operating.

·                        Hyatt Place Manati:  Open and operating.

·                        Hyatt Place San Juan City Center: Open and operating.

·                        Hyatt Residence Club Dorado: Open and operating.

·                        InterContinental San Juan: Business as usual.

·                        Rincon Beach: Open for business.

·                        San Juan Water Beach Club Hotel: Sustained no damage, have full power, and open for business.

·                        Wyndham Garden at Palmas del Mar:  Open and operating.

·                        Wyndham Grand Rio Mar: Sustained minimal damage and is currently open.

St. Kitts and Nevis

St. Kitts & Nevis sustained minimal damage overall and both St. Kitts’ Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport and Nevis’ Vance W. Amory International Airport have reopened.

Hotels in St. Kitts reported no structural damage while Nevis’ hotel updates include:

·                     Four Seasons Resort Nevis  - The resort is in fine shape

·                     Hermitage Inn General debris, but no structural damage

·                     The Great House and Cottages at Nisbett Plantation Beach Club  in excellent condition. However, there was damage to the Sea Breeze Beach Bar, the decking and the beach.

St. Barthelemy

It has been reported that St. Barth’s was heavily impacted by Hurricane Irma which destroyed government buildings and badly damaged private homes The French government has sent people and supplies to the country to assist with recovery efforts.

St. Maarten (Dutch) / St. Martin (French)

The recovery effort continues. Director of tourism for Dutch St. Maarten Rolando Brison is reporting that Sun Wing has evacuated some visitors to Montreal, Canada, while other guests have also been evacuated. The Princess Juliana International Airport has been receiving flights that are bringing in relief supplies, and evacuating guests. No passengers, including media, are being allowed in at the moment due to a shortage of staff to man the airport. The airport reopened on Sunday 10 September for relief flights after the passage of Hurricane Jose in the region.

Updates from St. Maarten / St. Martin hotels are as follows:

·                     Beach Plaza: Badly damaged

·                     Belair Beach Hotel: Sustained damage and it will take time to repair. Phone service and internet down.   .

·                     Esmeralda Resort: Hotel 70 per cent destroyed.

·                     Hotel Mercure : Damaged

·                     La Vista Hotel: The Beach building is relatively in decent shape. The roof tiles came off but the roof itself in still there. Some water damage and missing doors and windows.

·                     Oyster Bay Beach Resort: Significant damage.

·                     Princess Heights: Minor damage.

·                     Riu Palace St. Martin: Infrastructures severely affected. All guests and employees are fine.  .

·                     Summit Resort Hotel: Due to extensive damages, the Summit Resort will remain closed.

·                     Westin Dawn Beach: Suffered significant damage.·

·                     Sonesta: Resort damage is severe. All further reservations from now through the end of 2017 have been cancelled.

Both the French and Dutch governments have sent people to the country along with supplies and vital aid.

St. Eustatius

Director of Tourism Charles Lindo says St. Eustatius was spared the worst by Hurricane Irma. Telephone, electricity and internet are back up and both the airport and seaport are open.

Turks and Caicos Islands

The Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA) has announced the reopening of the Providenciales International Airport (PLS) for scheduled flights as of 11 a.m. on, Monday, 11 September

The department of disaster management and emergencies is currently conducting assessments throughout the islands. Initial reports indicate localized flooding, and damage to roofs and some property but no reports of loss of life.  fe.

Several of the hotel properties were scheduled for annual closure PRIOR to Irma; some properties have now elected to remain closed, to assess any damage to their properties and looking to reopen by the beginning to middle of October 2017.

Updates from individual properties in the Turks & Caicos Islands are as follows:

CURRENTLY OPEN The Palms Resort Shore Club Seven Stars

CLOSED One to Two Weeks Windsong The Regent Grand Villa Community

CLOSED FOR TWO Months as of 1 September, 2017 Property Gansevoort TCI West Bay Club Somerset Point Grace Royal West Indies Club Med Beaches TCI Parrot Cay (scheduled closer August 26^th to November 18^th, 2017)

CLOSED FOR ONE Month The Alexandra Resort Beach House TCI Blue Haven La Vele Seven Stars Tuscany The Sands

United States Virgin Islands (St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas)

The Virgin Islands Port Authority’s Executive Director, David Mapp, provided the following updates regarding the airports and seaports in the US Virgin Islands.

The Henry E. Rohlsen Airport on St. Croix is open and fully operational. American Airlines is expected to resume flights to HERA tomorrow, 12 September. The Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas received extensive damage during Hurricane Irma. CEKA is only open to emergency relief flights. VIPA is currently conducting assessments and cleanup, with a tentative date of 16 September, 2017 to resume daily commercial flights to St. Thomas.

All seaports on St. Croix are open and fully operational. There is currently no seaplane service available. VIPA will announce when service resumes. All seaports in the St. Thomas/St. John district are open. However, service between Cruz Bay, St. John and Red Hook, St. Thomas is limited to daylight hours only.

The following updates have been shared by individual properties in the U.S. Virgin Islands:

St. Croix

·         The Buccaneer: Open for business. Facilities are in good shape, but there may be some limitation of services over the next few days.

·         Club Comanche Hotel St. Croix: Open and accepting guests as of Friday, 8 September

·         Hotel Caravelle: The hotel is open and accepting guests.

·         Hotel on the Cay: The resort will be accepting guests beginning Tuesday, 12 September

St. John

·         Caneel Bay: Complete power outage at the resort. Team assessing the damage.

·         Westin St. John Resort Villas: The resort and the surrounding areas experienced some damage and overall impact is being assessed.

St. Thomas

·         Bluebeard's Castle Resort: Sustained major damage,  .

·         Marriott Frenchman’s Reef: Those planning to visit the hotel should check the news for the most current information The resort is waiving hotel cancellation and change fees for specific arrival dates. Customers should call 1-800-228-9290 (US) 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.

·         Margaritaville Vacation Club:. Recovery efforts to begin

·         Point Pleasant Resort: Currently  assessing damage, and will share new information when available.

·         Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas:. Those planning to visit the hotel should check the news for the most current information and amend their travel plans accordingly. The resort is waiving hotel cancellation and change fees for specific arrival dates. Customers should call 1-800-228-9290 (US) 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.

·         Secret Harbour Beach Resort: No major structural damage to the buildings. The generator is still working.

·         Sugar Bay Resort & Spa: The damage is being assessed and an update will be provided when available.

·         Windward Passage: Will close for six months.

Palm Springs, California's famous desert playground, is set to host two vibrant and diverse LGBT events this autumn; Cinema Diverse and Greater Palm Springs Pride will be taking place in September and November respectively and celebrate the diversity, equality and solidarity of the LGBT community.

Movie enthusiasts are invited to experience Cinema Diverse, a unique silver screen celebration, which is solely dedicated to showcasing the leaders in LGBT cinema. Celebrating its tenth anniversary, Cinema Diverse will take place from 21st to 24th September 2017 in the Camelot Theatres in Palm Springs.

To open the festival, Cinema Diverse will be airing a new documentary called 'The Untold Tales of Armistead Maupin', which tells the story of gay pioneer and beloved author, Armistead Maupin. Armistead, who wrote a series of novels called 'Tales of the City', will be attending the opening night to participate in a Q&A session, receive a coveted lifetime achievement award, as well as sign copies of his upcoming memoir 'Logical Family: A Memoir', which is due to be published in October.

Greater Palm Springs Pride has been running for 31 years and is the largest LGBT gathering in the Coachella Valley. Located in the city's beautiful downtown, the festival will take place on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th November 2017. With live bands, cutting edge DJ sets, dancing in the streets, as well as delicious street food stands, Greater Palm Springs Pride will bring the city's downtown to life.

Elite Havens has announced that the seven villas of the sensational Sava Beach Villas estate are now part of their exclusive Phuket holiday rental collection.

Sava Beach Villas comprises seven designer villas set in a beachfront estate, just 25 minutes from Phuket international airport in peaceful Phang Nga province. These Natai Beach rentals offer a choice of seven bedrooms with Villa Tievoli, six bedrooms at Villa Amarelo, Villa Cielo, Villa Malee Sai and Villa Essenza, and four-bedroom escapes at Villa Roxo and Villa Aqua. Each villa has a distinct personality reflecting its individual owner's design tastes, while all offer a modern haven with sea and sunset views.

An immersion into complete tranquillity and care awaits at Sava Beach Villas, with large private pools of 18 or 25 metres, stylish indoor and outdoor living areas, private dining rooms, ample entertainment and sports facilities and a professional team of staff including Thai chefs and villa managers to cater to every guest whim – all just steps away from the soft sands of Natai, a quiet beach that extends 10 kilometres up the glorious Andaman coast. And for those in search of a fantasy beachfront Phuket wedding venue, Sava is a dream destination.

Natai Beach is less than an hour's drive from the busy tourist areas of Phuket, yet it offers a sense of seclusion and exclusivity with only a handful of luxury villas and boutique resorts lining its sandy shore. From relaxing on the sands of Natai and kayaking or standup paddle boarding along the shore to venturing out for a yacht charter cruise of majestic Phang Nga Bay or snorkelling the pristine waters of the Similan islands, Sava Beach Villas offer the ultimate tropical beach getaway.

The Italian National Tourist Board will be the Premier Partner at WTM London 2017 – the leading global event for the travel industry – as Italy takes a “fundamental step” towards a new marketing strategy. Known as ENIT, the tourism body has signed the Premier Partnership deal to ensure widespread media coverage; to offer maximum support its tourism industry; and to highlight Italy's diverse range of holidays.

ENIT will have two main stands at WTM London (EU2000, EU2070) and will share its exhibition space with around 230 Italian travel trade partners, including regional tourism bodies, hotels, travel agencies, resorts and operators.

Through its Premier Partnership status, Italy aims to “reposition and widen the Italian tourist offer” beyond the traditional tourist destinations. ENIT will also shine a spotlight on its themed years, with Italian villages being the focus for 2017, and food and wine in 2018. Both themes promote the Italian way of life, which can be experienced by tourists across the whole country – from its mountains to the coast, lakes and cities. Indeed, the country's cuisine is already a major draw, and it is regarded as the number one destination for food and wine tourism, according to the Food Travel Monitor.

Italy will also use WTM London to highlight its cultural attractions and the fact it has more UNESCO World Heritage sites than any other country, with 53. According to FutureBrand's Country Brand Index, it is ranked top for Tourism & Culture – and it is the most photographed country on Instagram, with 64 million tags and counting.

Its varied attractions mean Italy is the fifth most popular destination worldwide for international arrivals, with 52 million visitors in 2016 – up 3.2% on 2015. These visitors generated more than €36 billion euros last year for the Italian economy, with Germans accounting for the highest amount at €5.7 billion. The US was the second biggest market (€4.6bn), followed by France (€3.6bn), the UK (€2.9bn) and Switzerland (€2.4bn). Cities famed for their art and culture – such as Rome, Milan, Venice, Florence, Naples and Turin – are the most popular option for overseas tourists, who spend about €14 billion in this sector. Overseas tourists visiting for seaside holidays, meanwhile, generate almost €5 billion.

Dario Franceschini, Minister of Cultural Heritage and Tourism, said the special themed years mean that regional tourist boards and cities can work together with the trade to create itineraries which enable overseas visitors to experience Italian lifestyles.

“In the tourism sector, where competition is so fierce, it is fundamental for Italy to diversify its attractions and spread tourist flows over the entire national territory,” he said.

“Tourism, this extraordinary engine of economic development, is a medium of peaceful encounters between cultures and a fundamental antidote to the fear of the different.”

WTM London, Senior Director, Simon Press, said: “WTM London is thrilled to welcome Italy as its Premier Partner for 2017.

“Italy has long been a key exhibitor at WTM London and we're delighted that this Premier Partnership will help the country to take its tourism marketing to the next level.

“Being WTM London's Premier Partner means Italy has the perfect platform promote the extensive range of Italian holidays to buyers and media from across the globe.”

The official signing ceremony of the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) Photography Ambassador Program took place at Visit Maldives Head Office in Male..

The MMPRC Photography Ambassador Program was created to provide a new platform for established and upcoming local photographers with an opportunity to be recognised on an international level and therefore venture into new international tourism domains. It is an initiative designed to enhance the local photography industry and to help create future job opportunities for local photographers within the Maldives tourism industry.

The photographers who take part in the ambassador programme will work closely with MMPRC to promote the destination “Maldives…the sunny side of life”, enhancing the official social media channels of MMPRC as well as recording events such as World Travel Market and ITB Berlin.

The ceremony was attended by Mr Hussain Lirar, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Mr Haris Mohamed, Acting Managing Director of MMPRC, senior representatives of MMPRC and the Ministry of Tourism as well as the MMPRC Photography Ambassadors.

Jamaica Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, has disclosed that the country earned a record US$2 Billion during the first eight months of this calendar year from 2.8 million visitors.

The figure represents an increase of 8.3 percent in gross foreign exchange earnings than the US$1.83 billion earned last year over the same period. In addition, cruise passenger arrivals were up 5.1 percent for the same period.

“My mission is to enhance the retention of the dollar from this US$2 billion. In fact, the latest report from the World Travel & Tourism Council indicates that the retention of the dollar, from the consumption side has risen to 70 percent. The Tourism Linkages Council is going to drive that value added that is needed to take the retention levels in Jamaica from 30 cents to at least 50 cents, for the total dollar that is spent,” said Minister Bartlett.

He also highlighted that direct contribution from tourism to the GDP at the moment is 8.4 percent but the induced and indirect contribution is now 27.2 percent. So, tourism remains one of the few labor-intensive sectors and directly employs 106,000 Jamaicans while generating indirect jobs for one in four persons, linked to sectors such as agriculture, creative and cultural industries, manufacturing, and construction.

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett (second left) engages Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF)/National Export Import Bank of Jamaica (EXIM) Small Medium Tourism Enterprises (SMTE) Loan Facility beneficiaries Danville Davidson, Director of Irie Safari Tours Ltd (second right) and Patria Kaye Aarons, Director Sweetie Confectionary Ltd (center) in dialogue. The occasion was a press briefing to report on the loan facility at the Ministry’s New Kingston offices on August 30, 2017. Sharing in the moment are TEF Chairman Godfrey Dyer (left) and EXIM Bank’s Managing Director Lisa Bell. While there, Minister Bartlett disclosed that the country has earned a record US$2 billion during the first eight months of this calendar year, from a total of 2.8 million visitors. The figure represents an increase of 8.3 percent in gross foreign exchange earnings over the US$1.83 billion earned last year for the same period.

The Tourism Minister was speaking at the press briefing to report on the year-old TEF/EXIM Bank Small Medium Tourism Enterprises (SMTE) Loan Facility, at the Ministry’s New Kingston offices on August 30, 2017.

According to reports received from the EXIM Bank, as at August 29, 2017, they have received twenty-eight completed loan applications, totaling J$509.9 million, under the SMTE loan program.

“The excellent response of SMTEs to the loan facility is proof that it is welcomed and well needed. Operators of SMTEs, who access up to $25 million dollars at 5 percent interest, over 5 years, will now be able to better respond to the demands of our thriving tourism sector,” said the Minister.