131: PATA CEO Interview + PATA Travel Mart + Maldives Amb.Mohamed + Hvar, Croatia + Business Dining Trends + Singapore Chinese New Year; 131-20240209
Issue 131, February 9, 2024New York, NYIssue 130 https://conta.cc/3HNvgxq |
| PATA CEO, Noor Ahmad Hamid |
 “If destinations can work together at all levels to provide greater integrated destination facilitation (IDF) by all the public and private stakeholders, it will become a fantastic change to destination management in the tourism industry.”In the debut episode of the year, TTG Conversations: Five Questions featured PATA CEO, Noor Ahmad Hamid, tackling pressing issues in tourism recovery and management. From disparities in recovery rates across the Asia Pacific region to concerns about over-tourism and effective crowd management measures, Mr Hamid offered insights and suggestions for enhancing tourism flow management strategies.Hear full insights from PATA CEO: https://youtu.be/JBzIwtmAiPs |
| PATA Travel Mart in Bangkok |
| PATA Travel Mart is held at a new location every year. Experience the diversity of destinations that influence the Asia Pacific travel industry.To commemorate the 25th anniversary of PATA’s establishment in Thailand and the relocation of the new PATA Headquarters at True Digital Park in 2023, Bangkok, Thailand has been chosen for PATA Travel Mart 2024. Join us at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) for the ultimate networking and business contracting event. Connect with decision-makers, forge new business partnerships, and explore the latest global travel offerings! |
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| Ambassador Mohamed of The Maldives |
 At a recent cocktail reception attended by travel industry leaders, Ambassador Dr. Ali Naseer Mohamed delivered a speech on the history of tourism in the Maldives. He discussed the early investors arriving from present-day Sri Lanka and India, and how the industry has evolved over the years. Only 200 of the country’s 1,100 islands are inhabited. Tourism in the Maldives has experienced significant growth since its inception in 1972.The Maldives has become a popular vacation destination, attracting tourists from around the world with its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. Dr. Mohamed also emphasized the impact of tourism on the country’s economy and culture.In addition to discussing the past, Dr. Mohamed also highlighted the importance of sustainable tourism and the steps that the Maldives is taking to preserve its natural beauty while still attracting visitors from around the world. His insightful remarks were well-received by the audience and serve as a reminder of the rich history and bright future of tourism in the Maldives.Kevin Hichour, General Manager, Holidays With Downtown, is the lucky winner of a Turkish Airlines ticket to the Maldives. |
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| Destination Maldives |
 Maldives is a paradise on earth, known for its mesmerizing beaches, turquoise waters, and stunning islands. The appeal of the Maldives as a honeymoon destination is obvious, thanks to the spectacular setting and beautiful views. It is the perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts who seek a blend of natural beauty and luxury. With a range of water sports available, from snorkeling to jet skiing, you can indulge in thrilling activities that will keep you entertained throughout your stay. It is also a popular destination for scuba diving. Other popular activities in the Maldives include fishing, swimming, and sunbathing. There are many wellness options in the Maldives, including yoga, meditation, and spa treatments.The Maldives is not just a honeymoon or an adventure enthusiast’s destination, but also an ideal family-friendly destination, with direct flights and resorts that cater well to families with kids’ clubs and varied activities. You can explore the breathtaking coral reefs, relax on the white sandy beaches, or enjoy a range of thrilling water sports. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the best of adventure and luxury in Maldives.Chandan Sen, Director – Americas,Villa Resorts, chandan.sen@villaresorts.com |
| Hvar, Croatia |
 Beautiful tourism presentation of the most sun-drenched Croatian island of Hvar was held at Delmonico for New York travel professionals by Hvar tourism board. You are cordially invited to visit them and show support at New York Adventure travel show this weekend. Stop by and say hi. Pictures with the mayor of HVAR and the director of the Croatian National Tourism office in New York, Mrs. Leila Kresic Juric. Kudos!!! Suncani Hvar!!! ….by Boris Miketic. |
 Hvar, the queen of the Croatian Dalmatian islands, has been a nautical paradise and birthplace of organized tourism in Europe since 1868. This island offers six UNESCO heritage experiences, including the Mediterranean diet, which is at its best when accompanied by some of the indigenous grape varieties grown on the island.Guests had the pleasure of experiencing the rich traditions and lifestyle of Hvar through its delicious cuisine, prepared by distinguished chefs from the island. The event took place at Delmonico’s, and was graced by the immediate past-mayor and current mayor of Hvar. We were captivated by the flavors of Hvar and left with a deep appreciation for this unique culinary and wine destination. Thank you, Leila Kresic Juric, Director, Croatia National Tourist Board, and Havar Island Tourist Boards. |
| Business Dining Trends Within the Industry |
 TTG shines a light on the transformation of Asia Pacific business dining in the aftermath of the pandemic, offering an in-depth exploration of recent trends and emerging practices within the industry. It presented valuable insights from various key figures into the changes in various areas, including efforts to prevent food waste and the increase in budget allocation for business event catering.The article showed us that dining has certainly transcended being a mere component of business functions, and now evolving into interactive experiences and social opportunities in its own right!Read the winning article: https://www.ttgindia.travel/2022/07/26/fancy-feasts/ |
| Singapore Chinese New Year |
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| Happy Spring Festival |
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| KUNG HEI FAT CHOY! Elizabeth Chin Executive Director PATA New York elizabethnypata@gmail.com |