Active Archives - TravelDailyNews International https://www.traveldailynews.com/category/special-interest-travel/active/ TravelDailyNews International Mon, 05 Jun 2023 06:41:18 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.1 https://www.traveldailynews.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/favicon-3.png Active Archives - TravelDailyNews International https://www.traveldailynews.com/category/special-interest-travel/active/ 32 32 The Ultimate Julian Alps Sensory Adventure – when an NFT becomes a unique experience in Slovenia https://www.traveldailynews.com/organizations/the-ultimate-julian-alps-sensory-adventure-when-an-nft-becomes-a-unique-experience-in-slovenia/ Mon, 05 Jun 2023 05:38:03 +0000 https://www.traveldailynews.com/?p=313958 The country's first-ever tourism event using NFT promotion took place in the Julian Alps, after first being announced at the World Travel Market in November 2022.

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BOHINJ, SLOVENIA – The Slovenian Tourist Board (STB), in partnership with The Julian Alps Association, has presented the country’s first-ever tourism promotional activity featuring NFT and blockchain technology at a unique event in the Julian Alps.

NFT (non-fungible token) is a certified, unique and unrepeatable digital token issued in limited edition as unique collectible electronic souvenirs. ‘The Ultimate Julian Alps Sensory Adventure’ NFT collection made up of fifteen NFTs was listed on Vandri, a tourism NFT platform.

The country’s first-ever tourism event using NFT promotion took place in the Julian Alps, after first being announced at the World Travel Market in November 2022. A group of selected journalists received NFT tokens which enabled them to obtain an NFT in their digital wallets and could utilise them in real life by attending this unique one-time event. Using an NFT to promote the stories of two key endangered species, the ‘The Ultimate Julian Alps Sensory Adventure’ raised awareness about Slovenia’s aim to move forward with a digitalised tourism strategy while highlighting the plight of two natural species in Slovenia, and showcasing the stunning Julian Alps.

With help of the two stories about the Cock-of-the-Woods (Western capercaillie), the largest member of the grouse family in Slovenia, and the Queen of the Alps (Alpine eryngo), a rare protected flower, the ‘The Ultimate Julian Alps Sensory Adventure’ showed the deeper importance of balance and reconnecting with nature. Guests got the opportunity to experience therapeutic yoga, sound baths and forest bathing. The one-time multi-sensory adventure proved to be a great success through the guided tours, breathtaking nature and panoramic boat rides around Lake Bled, complemented with food from some of Slovenia’s top chefs.

NFT owners experienced value of their NFTs first-hand by utilising them as tickets to participate in the exclusive preview, creating a unique synergy that combines digital and real-life experiences.

Slovenia and the Julian Alps stand out as smart and innovative destinations incorporating the advanced technology of NFTs into travel and tourism. At the same time, in line with its sustainability ethos, the content of the NFTs draws attention to the issue of endangered flora and fauna species. The Slovenian Tourist Board (STB) is solidifying its position as a pioneer in the evolving tourism industry by embracing the digital future with new technologies in harmony with its traditional values.

The article The Ultimate Julian Alps Sensory Adventure – when an NFT becomes a unique experience in Slovenia first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

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ITF countries could do better on their commitments to walking and cycling, says new PATH report https://www.traveldailynews.com/special-interest-travel/itf-countries-could-do-better-on-their-commitments-to-walking-and-cycling-says-new-path-report/ Fri, 26 May 2023 07:21:28 +0000 https://www.traveldailynews.com/?p=313339 Almost all walking and cycling policies include commitments to the five key PATH calls to action to improve infrastructure, integrate with public transport, improve land use planning, coordinate campaigns, and commit to capacity building.

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LEIPZIG – ITF member countries are increasing their commitment to walking and cycling policies and strategies but more needs to be done to really connect this work to their climate, health and equity agendas, says a new report by the Partnership for Active Travel and Health (PATH).

More than four-fifths of ITF countries boast walking policies and 41% have a related strategy, while 45% have a cycling policy but just one in five have a cycling strategy in place says the report ‘National Policies for Walking and Cycling in ITF Countries.’ The report is the first ever combined report that analyses walking and cycling policies in the 64 ITF member countries.

Almost all walking and cycling policies include commitments to the five key PATH calls to action to improve infrastructure, integrate with public transport, improve land use planning, coordinate campaigns, and commit to capacity building. The report highlights that translating policy into meaningful action requires dedicated staff, funding and evaluation. More than twice as many countries have committed funding to the delivery of cycling policy (76%) than walking (28%).

In a post-covid context, the cross-cutting benefits of active mobility have become more prominent. While transport ministers lead more than half of walking and cycling policies, 21% of walking and 24% of cycling policies are cross-departmental to identify the cross-cutting benefits for health, climate, and equity. While road safety is the most common objective cited in 70% of walking policies and 83% of cycling policies, at least half also include an objective to increase participation, and climate change mitigation in 52% of walking and 76% of cycling policies.

“PATH partners seek to unlock walking and cycling’s potential to accelerate the achievement of climate goals and other benefits, through greater prioritisation and investment including through national strategies and other policy instruments. Therefore it seemed fitting on the occasion of the ITF Summit to prepare a national policy analysis for walking and cycling in ITF countries,” said Walk21 CEO Bronwen Thornton. “We found that the majority of ITF member countries are actively supporting the PATH call to create integrated and coherent strategies, including plans, funding and concrete actions for walking and cycling, though there are wide variations between countries and room for more action.”

Jill Warren, CEO of the European Cyclists’ Federation, said: “This report serves as a useful baseline for active mobility in ITF countries and a valuable resource for policy and decision-makers and advocates alike. PATH partners hope it will catalyse further action by countries in favour of walking and cycling.”

Sheila Watson, Deputy Director of the FIA Foundation which funds PATH and supported this research, said: “A truly sustainable mobility paradigm must include sound policies, concrete actions and a much larger share of investment in walking and cycling. This is why the FIA Foundation is proud to support the activities of PATH and the creation and launch of this report, which will help inform countries’ further commitments to enable more people to walk and cycle safely.”

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Regenerative Hotels launch innovative scuba diving programs in Belize and Tanzania for World Oceans Day 2023 https://www.traveldailynews.com/tour-operators/regenerative-hotels-launch-innovative-scuba-diving-programs-in-belize-and-tanzania-for-world-oceans-day-2023/ Fri, 26 May 2023 06:07:12 +0000 https://www.traveldailynews.com/?p=313230 Discover the latest conservation experiences to further regenerative tourism.

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NEW YORK – Regenerative Travel, a consortia of travel companies dedicated to regenerative tourism announce the launch of two exciting initiatives in celebration of World Oceans Day on June 8th, 2023 at Resort in Belize and Manta Resort in Tanzania, both proud members of Regenerative Hotels, have unveiled unique programs focused on marine conservation and citizen science.

First Scuba Safari Launches at Manta Resort, Tanzania

Manta Resort on Pemba Island in Tanzania introduces the Pemba Coral Reef Safari, a one-of-a-kind scuba diving and marine wildlife experience. Manta Resort joined forces with Ecotraining, a renowned guide training organization in Africa, to introduce a groundbreaking 28-day guide training course that has been specifically adapted for the marine environment and scuba diving, creating a first-of-its-kind training experience. Unlike traditional scuba instruction, the Pemba Coral Reef Safari course focuses on equipping guides with specialized techniques for underwater guiding, as well as the identification and interpretation of marine wildlife found in and around the coral reefs of Pemba.

By partnering with Ecotraining, known for their expertise in guide training, Manta Resort ensures that their guides receive top-notch education and skills development in the marine environment. To enhance the guest experience, the trained guides are equipped with the latest full-face masks featuring built-in microphones. This technology allows for real-time underwater commentary, providing guests with an immersive and educational narrative about the marine world. Divers participating in the Pemba Coral Reef Safari will wear specially designed earpieces, further immersing them in this informative journey.

This immersive journey combines the elements of a terrestrial African safari with the undersea world, offering a guided encounter with marine wildlife. The safari accommodates a maximum of two divers, ensuring a comprehensive and intimate experience. Each dive is led by a trained guide who has completed a specialist course in underwater guiding and marine wildlife interpretation.

Manta Pemba Island partners with BlueRise, the eco-tourism division of Blue Finance, and supports the local non-profit organization, Kwanini Foundation, dedicated to making positive social and environmental contributions to Pemba Island.

Booking a Pemba Coral Reef Safari not only offers an extraordinary diving experience but also contributes to marine protection and local community development. $35 from each safari booked directly supports the Kwanini Foundation.

Citizen Science & Lionfish Spearfishing Adventure at Hamanasi Resort, Belize

Hamanasi Resort, located on the south coast of Belize, is introducing the Belize Dive Explorer, a captivating Marine Conservation & Citizen Science Scuba Diving Package. This package combines exhilarating dive adventures with the eco-luxury experience offered at Hamanasi Resort. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the wonders of the Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while participating in activities such as a Lionfish spearfishing adventure where guests can learn about the invasive lionfish species and help remove them from the reef and night dives.

In addition to the Belize Dive Explorer, Hamanasi Resort also launched the Women’s Dive Internship & Career Development Course. This paid internship aims to empower women by providing them with an opportunity to enter the dive profession and establish meaningful connections with industry professionals and conservation organizations. Guests will have an opportunity to dive with the female dive trainees and learn more about conservation firsthand.

 

*Hamanasi is offering select press trips to journalists interested to cover the female guiding program and new scuba package

The article Regenerative Hotels launch innovative scuba diving programs in Belize and Tanzania for World Oceans Day 2023 first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

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Quark Expeditions announces Shane Evoy as Snow Hill Expedition Leader for 2023 https://www.traveldailynews.com/people/new-appointments/quark-expeditions-announces-shane-evoy-as-snow-hill-expedition-leader-for-2023/ Thu, 18 May 2023 06:07:38 +0000 https://www.traveldailynews.com/?p=312486 Quark Expeditions invites explorers to join Shane Evoy onboard Ultramarine for its November 16 or November 24, 2023 departures of the voyage Emperor Penguin Quest: Expedition to Snow Hill.

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Quark Expeditions, a global leader in polar adventures, announce that renowned polar guide Shane Evoy will serve as Expedition Leader for its voyages to Antarctica’s remote Snow Hill penguin colony in November, 2023.

With nearly 30 years of experience in Antarctica, Evoy is one of only a few people worldwide to have visited Snow Hill multiple times – including more than 20 successful landings as an Expedition Leader. As a veteran member of the company’s preeminent team, he has inspired Quark Expeditions’ guests on voyages to unprecedented polar destinations for more than two decades.

“Shane leads with both technical precision and extraordinary passion,” said Andrew White, President of Quark Expeditions. “For our Snow Hill guests onboard Ultramarine, the once-in-a-lifetime experience of pursuing this legendary location will be made even more magical by its equally legendary Expedition Leader, Shane Evoy.”

Along with his deep experience, Shane brings a belief in the ability of every expedition guest to go farther, and go beyond. “To step boldly outside the familiar can bring remarkable rewards,” said Evoy. “I am thrilled to return to Snow Hill—one of the most majestic settings imaginable to help guests take their time, in a rare and remote location, to discover their own capabilities.”

Quark Expeditions invites explorers to join Shane Evoy onboard Ultramarine for its November 16 or November 24, 2023 departures of the voyage Emperor Penguin Quest: Expedition to Snow Hill.

Contact the company’s polar travel advisors for details, and ask about the Snow Hill Promise: reach the Snow Hill colony on these expeditions, or book at 50% off for any applicable expedition in 2024.

The article Quark Expeditions announces Shane Evoy as Snow Hill Expedition Leader for 2023 first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

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Announcing the launch of Privada Travel expressly designed for exclusive, expertly curated adventure https://www.traveldailynews.com/tour-operators/announcing-the-launch-of-privada-travel-expressly-designed-for-exclusive-expertly-curated-adventure/ Wed, 17 May 2023 05:53:22 +0000 https://www.traveldailynews.com/?p=312339 Privada Travel is affiliated with the Travel Edge Network of professionals as the first Montana-based agency in the alliance.

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BILLINGS, MONTANA – New brand for active, custom-designed travel, Privada Travel, announce its official opening. The agency, founded by Carol Austin, a 30-year adventure travel industry veteran, offers unparalleled personalized, exclusive travel experiences that focus on active exploration and cultural immersion.

Privada (Spanish for private) is the passion and creation of Austin, who for the past three decades helped navigate with husband Dan, Austin Adventures, to the position of industry leader in active travel. As an experienced traveler and accomplished outdoor adventurer, Austin saw a need for a travel agency that catered specifically to those who wanted to explore the world at their own pace through active adventures such as hiking, biking, small ship cruising and safari.

“We believe that travel is about more than just visiting a new place,” said Austin. “It’s about immersing yourself in the local culture, pushing your limits and creating lifelong memories. That’s why we focus on active adventures that allow travelers to experience the world in a unique way.”

Privada Travel is affiliated with the Travel Edge Network of professionals as the first Montana-based agency in the alliance. Ranked #20 on Travel Weekly’s Power List, Travel Edge is a leader in the North American luxury travel industry, with over $850 million in annual sales across luxury cruise, air, hotel, and tours. A broad network of over 450 top luxury advisors, with 85 affiliated agencies representing an additional 425 advisors, serves an affluent and engaged client base that spans the U.S. and Canada.

Privada Travel offers a range of world-wide vacation experiences, from national parks, luxury lodges and multi-day hiking trips to wildlife safaris and cultural tours that include cooking classes and wine tastings. Each experience is carefully curated to provide travelers with an authentic and unforgettable experience built around how they want to see the world.

“Once the reality of selling Austin Adventures set in, I knew I wasn’t done with travel. In fact, it was just the opportunity I needed to do exactly what I love the most – helping others fulfill their travel dreams,” she said. “Over the past 30 years I have personally helped thousands of travelers to discover their passions and experience the finest the world has to offer. Creating Privada Travel allows me to continue to work with the world’s best tour operators, suppliers and guides of whom I’ve built intimate relationships with over the years. Adding the Travel Edge Network to my already extensive list of past friends and contacts is a sure pathway to success.”

Carol Austin has extensive firsthand experience around the world. Single travelers, adults, families and multi-generational travel clients are all her specialty. While travel may be her ultimate passion, exceptional, personalized customer service is in her DNA.

The article Announcing the launch of Privada Travel expressly designed for exclusive, expertly curated adventure first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

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Travelport and Adventureman set a new World Record, visiting the 7 Wonders of the World in less than 7 days https://www.traveldailynews.com/special-interest-travel/travelport-and-adventureman-set-a-new-world-record-visiting-the-7-wonders-of-the-world-in-less-than-7-days/ Wed, 17 May 2023 05:46:00 +0000 https://www.traveldailynews.com/?p=312356 Jamie McDonald, a British Adventurer better known as “Adventureman”, traveled to the Seven Modern Wonders of the World, using only public transport: the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, Petra, the Colosseum, Christ the Redeemer, Machu Pichu and Chichén Itzá.

The article Travelport and Adventureman set a new World Record, visiting the 7 Wonders of the World in less than 7 days first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

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LANGLEY, UK – Travelport, a global technology company that powers travel bookings for hundreds of thousands of travel suppliers worldwide, and Jamie McDonald, a British adventurer better known as “Adventureman”, anounced a new world record – the fastest time to visit the new Seven Wonders of the World, achieved in less than seven days. Confirmed by Guinness World Records, the journey was achieved in 6 days, 16 hours, and 14 minutes, using only public transportation. The challenge was set to Adventureman by Travelport in order to put the company’s modern retail platform, Travelport+, to the test, proving that the company’s technology allows its travel agency partners to simply plan, book and manage even the world’s most complex trip.

“When we began upgrading our agency partners to Travelport+ in 2021, it was with the intent of making the complicated travel industry easier and faster to navigate,” said Greg Webb, Chief Executive Officer at Travelport. “This epic adventure was the ultimate test for our platform – could we take the world’s most complex trip and make it simple? Could we ensure it was easy to service? Would the platform be agile enough to accommodate whatever unforeseen bumps the trip encountered? Six days, sixteen hours and fourteen minutes later, we had our answer: yes, yes and yes. This trip also proves that, after a few challenging years for the industry, travel is most definitely back and better than ever.”

Travelport+ provides global travel agents with modern retail technology that allows them to compare millions of travel routes and select the best one for each individual traveller. Travelbag, a travel agency who has been a longtime partner of Travelport, booked all aspects of Adventureman’s trip via Travelport+, and they were able to search, filter, find, compare and build the most complex itinerary with ease using Smartpoint Cloud. Adventureman had round-the-clock access to a dedicated Travelbag Travel Specialist who, on his request, tracked evolving travel restrictions, identified schedule changes, and made necessary tweaks to his itinerary in real time. He also was able to access Travelport’s Trip Manager feature on the go, in order to add ancillaries and extras (meals, paid seats, etc.) to his itinerary. For travelers who want to visit one, or all, of the seven modern wonders themselves, Travelbag has a range of packages available, allowing travelers to visit all seven wonders of the world themselves (packages starting from £31,000) or visit an individual wonder (packages starting at £1,300 per person). Depending on each traveler’s individual requirements, Travelbag can tailor-make the perfect holiday.

“At Travelbag, we’ve planned and booked thousands of trips, and yet, even we had never seen an itinerary this complex before,” said Caroline Foxwell, Sales and Service Leader at Travelbag. “The retailing tools from Travelport+ are so powerful – Smartpoint Cloud made booking and servicing this trip so easy, it practically did the job for us. Travelport+ helps us to build the perfect itinerary for our clients, time and again, even when that client is a globetrotting, world record-setting superhero!”

Adventureman began the trip at the Great Wall of China, the world’s longest human-made structure, and the world-record clock started ticking the moment he left the first wonder via toboggan. Second, he visited India’s Taj Mahal – the country’s top tourist destination, which is widely considered a symbol of eternal love. From there, he traveled to Jordan and then by bus to the ancient city of Petra, whose carved rose-red sandstone rock facades, tombs, and temples became even more famous from their role in Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade. Departing Jordan, Adventureman flew to Rome to see its legendary Colosseum, envisioning ancient gladiator battles before he made time for a quick pizza pit stop (the only non-airplane food he consumed during the trip). Christ the Redeemer, the world’s largest art deco statue, brought Adventureman to Brazil, where he was equally in awe of the view from its platform as he was of the statue itself. The sixth wonder, Machu Pichu (an Incan citadel nearly 8,000 feet above sea level) was Adventureman’s favorite: he plans to go back one day and bought a stuffed llama toy there to bring back for his daughter. Finally, after only 6 days, 16 hours and 14 minutes, he reached Chichén Itzá, an archeological site that was a hallowed place of ceremony in the Mayan culture.

For Adventureman, a main focus of the record-breaking trip was raising funds for his charity, the Superhero Foundation. As a child, Jamie was diagnosed with a rare spinal condition called syringomyelia, and doctors warned his parents that he might lose the ability to walk. Through the help of many doctors, hospitals and his family, his health improved, starting him on his lifelong mission of giving back to sick kids around the world. To kick start fundraising efforts, Travelport has donated $22,856, a dollar for every mile that Jamie, a Pride of Britain winner, traveled for this challenge. The money will be utilized to continue the charity’s mission: helping families in need fund treatments, therapies and equipment that aren’t freely available to them through their traditional or local healthcare support system.

“In my previous adventures, I’ve run solo across America (the equivalent of 210 marathons) and have cycled 22,000 kilometers from Thailand to the United Kingdom, and yet, this was certainly my most complex, complicated trip yet,” said Jamie McDonald, better known as Adventureman. “With travel, there are just so many variables – weather, restrictions, delays, customs, traffic, cancellations, you name it. When you’re attempting to set a world record, speed and agility are absolutely key. There was no other partner besides Travelport that could’ve made this all possible.”

For the trip to be endorsed by Guinness World Records, Adventureman had to abide by several rules:

  • Use only scheduled public transportation, with licensed taxi rides unable to exceed 50 kilometers
  • Keep a logbook with clearly indexed evidence (receipts, tickets, etc.) supporting each step
  • Obtain receipts and/or tickets everywhere available
  • Use accurate professional equipment (i.e. GPS tracking equipment)
  • Take videos and photos showing the applicant, the location and the date at each site visited
  • Get a written or recorded statement from an official member of staff, local dignitary and/or police officer at each site
  • Understand that the ‘clock’ starts the moment the challenger leaves the first wonder site, and it does not stop for any reason until the challenger sets foot in the final site

Protecting the environment is of the utmost importance to both Travelport and Adventureman. The company calculated the carbon emissions from Adventureman’s trip using using the Travel Impact Model, a shared framework for calculating air travel emissions maintained by Google and developed as part of Travalyst, an independent not-for-profit organization of which Travelport is a member. Travalyst is working to unify industry tools and information to bring sustainable travel to the mainstream. As such, the total CO2 emissions of the world record trip was 2,523 kg. Travelport will remove these emissions with high-quality carbon dioxide removal services from Climeworks.

The article Travelport and Adventureman set a new World Record, visiting the 7 Wonders of the World in less than 7 days first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

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European Cyclists’ Federation announces winners of ECF Awards at Velo-city 2023 https://www.traveldailynews.com/meetings-events/european-cyclists-federation-announces-winners-of-ecf-awards-at-velo-city-2023/ Mon, 15 May 2023 05:31:45 +0000 https://www.traveldailynews.com/?p=312135 The next edition of the awards will be held during Velo-city 2024 Ghent, Belgium.

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LEIPZIG – The European Cyclists’ Federation announce the winners of the second edition of the ECF Awards, recognising some of Europe’s highest achievers in ensuring more cycling.

The winners of the four award categories were unveiled during the third day of ECF’s annual flagship conference, Velo-city, which is taking place in Leipzig, Germany. The award ceremony was hosted by ECF President Henk Swarttouw and ECF CEO Jill Warren in front of a full house of conference attendees.

The winners of the awards:

  • The City of Helsingborg for the Cycling Infrastructure Award
  • The City of Essen for the Cycle-Friendly Employer Award, sponsored by JobRad.
  • The City of Oslo for the Road Safety Award, sponsored by Geveko Markings.
  • The City of Heidelberg for the Cycling Improvement Award, sponsored by Eco-Counter.

The City of Helsingborg – Cycling Infrastructure Award
Helsinborg’s Varvsbron Bridge is a magnificent cycling and pedestrian bridge that not only looks incredible but also places active travel at the top of the local mobility pyramid. This landmark bridge encourages people to get on their bikes by connecting the up-and-coming smart neighbourhood of Oceanhamnen with the city centre and a nearby public transport hub. Its sleek design and gently sloping, meandering shape gives users a smooth ride, as they cross over the city’s harbour in style.

The City of Essen – Cycle-Friendly Employer Award
The City of Essen is truly a standout in their field. Since earning a silver-level Cycle-Friendly Employer certification in 2019, their continued efforts saw them upgraded to a gold-level certificate in 2022. A great example of “Leading the Transition”, they have been sponsoring other local CFE companies and joining forces with organisations and authorities to form a network of cycle-friendly employers. The numbers speak for themselves, with 18 CFE certified employers now in the city.

The City of Oslo – Road Safety Award
Oslo is a city that has been making incredible progress in recent years towards becoming one of Europe’s safest cities for cyclists. Thanks to the city’s ambitions and concrete actions, a 2022 public survey revealed that 31% of respondents now consider it safe to cycle in the city, a meteoric rise from only 9% in 2014. Following radical changes to city streets, such as the implementation of 30 km/h speed limits and the removal of over 700 on-street parking spots inside the city’s inner ring road, this city became one of the first in Europe to achieve Vision Zero, with zero road deaths on its streets in 2019, and has since been leading the way with one of the fewest numbers of cyclist fatalities per year in Europe.

City of Heidelberg – Cycling Improvement Award
With 40% of Heidelberg’s inhabitants using their bikes as their main mode of transport for inner city journeys, the city has clear ambitions and is implementing concrete actions that are further increasing and improving cycling as part of a larger transition. In 2022, the city’s cycling counters recorded a 17% growth in the amount of bicycle journeys compared to the previous year – from an already high base. The public bike-sharing service registered almost twice as many rentals (325,165) rentals as in the previous year (166,465). Investments in cycling infrastructure include more bicycle parking, as well as a new programme to improve rural-to-urban cycling paths to enable more and safer commuting by bike. The city has also provided subsidies for bicycle purchase. And their leaders are “leading by example”, with the city’s Mayor Eckart Würzner known to lead informative cycling tours for citizens.

Speaking at the ceremony, Swarttouw acknowledged the excellent work and progress made by all the winners, stating: “Velo-city is the world’s premier event for cycling advocacy and promotion, and the European Cyclists’ Federation’s flagship event for knowledge exchange throughout the global cycling community. This is why we believe there is no better place to recognise and celebrate the efforts and achievements of those who are striving to ensure more cycling in their cities and regions.”

On behalf of ECF, he extended his thanks to all the sponsors who helped make the awards possible.

The next edition of the awards will be held during Velo-city 2024 Ghent, Belgium.

The article European Cyclists’ Federation announces winners of ECF Awards at Velo-city 2023 first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

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Launch of White Desert World – blending unique adventures with iconic destinations https://www.traveldailynews.com/tour-operators/launch-of-white-desert-world-blending-unique-adventures-with-iconic-destinations/ Fri, 12 May 2023 06:34:07 +0000 https://www.traveldailynews.com/?p=311999 The first adventure to be announced is an epic 21-day journey that will take guests to 10 iconic destinations, across seven continents.

The article Launch of White Desert World – blending unique adventures with iconic destinations first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

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The pioneers of luxury travel, White Desert, has announced the launch of another iconic guest experience, White Desert World. Seizing on their award-winning expertise in exploring hard to reach destinations, White Desert World will offer extraordinary opportunities for unique, adventure travel. The first adventure to be announced is an epic 21-day journey that will take guests to 10 iconic destinations, across seven continents: spanning the globe from fabled Easter Island in the middle of the Pacific, ending in the icy wilderness of Antarctica.

The journey will be as diverse as it is luxurious. Drawing on two decades of adventure travel as well as aviation and luxury hospitality expertise, the team have hand-picked each destination. Co-Founder and CEO of White Desert, Patrick Woodhead explains “These countries have been chosen because they are unusual, many are hard to reach destinations and they all epitomise the height of adventure without sacrificing a luxurious experience.”

Starting in Mexico City, guests will then travel to Colombia, Easter Island, Fiji, Borneo, India, Turkey, Namibia, South Africa and will finish the journey with White Desert’s signature trip – into Antarctica. In fact, guests will have the choice of two endings to this incredible journey. Guests can choose either White Desert Antarctica’s ‘Greatest Day’ trip into the 7th Continent where they will have a few hours on ice or a chance to extend their stay for a further five days in Antarctica before flying back to Cape Town (numbers strictly limited).

White Desert World will focus on offering authentic, local experiences and highlights will include Caribbean cooking in Cartagena, a graffiti street art tour of Getsemani and a sailing trip to Club de Pesca for a night of rum, chocolate and salsa music. Other activities will include sampling the best food and drink offerings, experiencing epic street parties and the opportunity to join in with local traditions. These will be coupled with off-the-beaten track city tours, bustling market visits, and collaborations with artisans and musicians; while expert guides will offer guests an adventure of a lifetime.

Guests will travel around the world in a unique Boeing 757-200 set up in a private configuration with 50 lie-flat seats. All air operations will endeavour to use sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) where possible and the White Desert World journey will be fully off-set. Indeed, White Desert have been carbon neutral since 2007 and this is an important tenet of all of their operations. White Desert are currently implementing a seagrass meadow planting project, which will help them be even more progressive in their sustainability and conservation efforts.

White Desert World’s 7 Continent Adventure is available for a maximum of 50 guests and will take place from 10th – 31st January 2024. White Desert World’s team will be travelling alongside the group and experienced local guides will be supporting on the ground in each destination.

The article Launch of White Desert World – blending unique adventures with iconic destinations first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

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Quark Expeditions launches brand new Greenland Explorer itinerary https://www.traveldailynews.com/special-interest-travel/quark-expeditions-launches-brand-new-greenland-explorer-itinerary-2/ Thu, 13 Apr 2023 06:09:18 +0000 https://www.traveldailynews.com/?p=309331 The 11-day Greenland Explorer: Sail and Soar the Alpine Arctic will launch in 2024.

The article Quark Expeditions launches brand new Greenland Explorer itinerary first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

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Quark Expeditions, the global leader in polar adventures, has announced a brand-new cutting-edge Greenland itinerary constructed around Ultramarine’s two twin-engine helicopters – and brought to life with local Greenlandic partners, enabling guests to enjoy the most innovative itinerary in Quark Expeditions’ 32-year history. The 11-day Greenland Explorer: Sail and Soar the Alpine Arctic will launch in 2024.

“Being able to develop this itinerary in full collaboration with local partners in Greenland ensures our guests can enjoy truly authentic experiences no one else can provide, such as Tundra to Table: Inuit Culinary Experience and Greenland Camping along the Tasermiut Fjord,” said Josh Weidman, Director of Product for Quark Expeditions. “The other gems in this new itinerary are Ultramarine’s two twin-engine helicopters, which enable our expedition team to take guests to areas in South Greenland no one else can where they’ll choose from the most robust portfolio of off-ship adventures in the Arctic. It’s our long-standing partnerships with local Greenlanders, and our dedicated expedition team—the best in the industry—that make us the experts in Greenland adventure.”

Itinerary highlights:

The most helicopter activities in Greenland:

  • Guests can explore the scenic landscapes and overwhelming natural beauty of South Greenland as they experience Heli hiking, Heli landing and the Ice Sheet Experience, among other activities
  • Set foot on the breath-takingly beautiful Greenland Ice sheet, the second-largest body of ice in the world.

Authentic Greenland Cultural Immersion:

  • Enthusiasts can visit one of the most welcoming populations in South Greenland and experience first-hand the rich cultural history, excellent cuisine, captivating stories, and vibrant local agricultural and tourism economy.
  • Plus one-of-a-kind culinary experience featuring local foods prepared by Greenlandic chefs during our Tundra to Table: Inuit Culinary Experience.

The Stunning Northern Lights:

  • Observe the natural phenomena also known as the Aurora borealis, which, in September, is a great time to observe due to the extended 4 to 8 hours of night in South Greenland.

The article Quark Expeditions launches brand new Greenland Explorer itinerary first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

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Africa poised for growth in adventure tourism industry, says panel of experts at WTM Africa https://www.traveldailynews.com/fairs-exhibitions/africa-poised-for-growth-in-adventure-tourism-industry-says-panel-of-experts-at-wtm-africa/ Wed, 05 Apr 2023 06:51:12 +0000 https://www.traveldailynews.com/?p=308768 The Southern African region offers numerous opportunities for adventure activities across the tourism value chain from big operators to the smaller SMMEs.

The article Africa poised for growth in adventure tourism industry, says panel of experts at WTM Africa first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

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Adventure tourism presents a significant opportunity for the tourism industry in Southern Africa and Africa, as highlighted by a panel discussion at WTM Africa on 03 April in the host City of Cape Town. The discussion brought together industry experts Julia Louw, Head of Leisure Tourism for the DMO unit Wesgro; Hannelie Du Toit, Chief Operating Officer SATSA; Andre Du Toit, Executive Head of New Business Development for the first Equity Insurance Group and Director at SATIB Insurance Brokers; and Quintin Smith, Founder of Bikes n Wines, to discuss the potential for adventure tourism and the challenges facing the industry.

During the panel discussion, SATSA announced the release of its Adventure Tourism Self-Regulation Roadmap and Code of Good Practice documents for public comment. The draft Self-Regulation documents were developed in consultation with industry stakeholders and aim to provide a framework for adventure tourism operators to operate in a responsible and sustainable manner while promoting growth and development in the adventure tourism industry.

“We believe that the Adventure Tourism Self-Regulation documents will provide a clear framework for operators to follow, resulting in the raising of standards and producing credible products with which we can position Southern Africa as a top adventure destination,” said du Toit.

Africa is already recognised as a leading destination for thrill-seekers, and experts at the panel discussion predicted this trend will continue. The Southern African region offers numerous opportunities for adventure activities across the tourism value chain from big operators to the smaller SMMEs.

One untapped opportunity is sustainable cruise travel. This form of travel offers a unique and eco-friendly way to explore the continent’s diverse landscapes and cultures. With smaller cruise ships venturing into lesser-known towns, the concept of explorer cruising has gained momentum. This approach not only ensures that the cruise itself is environmentally responsible, but also supports
local communities and economies by visiting smaller towns and promoting cultural exchange.

As adventure tourism continues to grow, new products and experiences will be created to transform the travel landscape, according to the panellists. This is already evident in rural areas where cultural activities are now included in tour itineraries, bringing new opportunities to those who live there. Africa’s adventure tourism industry is poised for growth, with opportunities for innovation, job creation, and sustainable tourism products. The continent’s natural environments, wildlife habitats, and local communities must be protected through cooperation between governments and tour operators to ensure the sector’s continued success.

The article Africa poised for growth in adventure tourism industry, says panel of experts at WTM Africa first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

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