Sertaç Aktan is a journalist based in Brussel, Belgium.

Worker shortage in the European Union leaves 1.2 million positions vacant

03 Aug 2022  |  tr.euronews.com  |  Turkish  |  European Union

A study by the World Travel and Tourism Council reveals a significant worker shortage in the European Union, with 1.2 million positions remaining unfilled. Italy is the most affected, particularly in the tourism sector, while the UK faces challenges post-Brexit, with 128,000 positions vacant. The report suggests solutions like favorable visa policies, flexible work options, and technological innovations to attract more workers.

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World Travel and Tourism Council European Union British Government

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Multi-skilled, detail-oriented online journalism and translation professional with more than 5 years of experience in delivering and managing translation and writing projects across online media.  Areas of expertise include: 
•	Translation     • 	Research         •	Content/news writing
•	Copy ...

We must manage the impact of economic headwinds as tourism industry rebounds

27 Nov 2022  |  Arab News  |  English  |  Global Economy

International travel has seen a significant rebound in 2022, with optimism in the tourism industry despite challenges such as inflation, geopolitical uncertainty, and a global economic slowdown. The UN World Tourism Organization reported a nearly threefold increase in international tourist arrivals during the first seven months of 2022, with Saudi Arabia experiencing a 121 percent increase from pre-pandemic levels. The introduction of Saudi Arabia's e-visa has contributed to this growth. However, the industry faces headwinds like the war in Ukraine and rising costs, which may deter travel. The International Monetary Fund predicts a slowdown in global economic growth. Saudi Arabia is hosting the 22nd Global Summit of the World Travel & Tourism Council in Riyadh, focusing on the future of travel and its role in economic growth and social development.

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World Travel & Tourism Council UN World Tourism Organization International Monetary Fund

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Cristina Aldehuela is a freelance photojournalist covering the continent of Africa. She obtained a bachelor's degree in Journalism at University of Sevilla and she obtained a MA in Photojournalism at Autonomous University of Barcelona. She has worked as a journalist in Diario de Sevilla, a local ...

In Ghana, the monkey business delights villagers

27 Sept 2017  |  Geo.fr  |  French  |  Local Development

Since 1996, the village of Tafi Atome in Ghana's Volta Region has transformed into an eco-tourism destination, attracting thousands of visitors annually to the Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary. The sanctuary's success has led to improved local infrastructure, including a clinic, wells, and school renovations. The once sacred mones monkeys, targeted by hunters after the decline of traditional beliefs, are now protected and considered friends by the villagers. Eco-tourism in Ghana, with its considerable potential, is expected to grow, with projections of increased tourist numbers and job creation. Experts and tour operators advocate for more government support and community pride in eco-tourism initiatives.

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World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary and Cultural Village Oxford Business Group

Victor Amadala is an award winning business, agriculture and environment journalist with over 500 features in leading local and global publications

As a development journalist, I identify problems and search for solutions - that is the only way a story can make sense....the 'so what journalism ...

Tourism growth to inject Sh25.2t into Africa's economy - WTTC

15 Nov 2023  |  The Star  |  English  |  Visa Policies

A visa-free Africa could unlock significant travel opportunities, adding $168 billion to the economy and creating 18 million jobs, according to a report by the World Travel and Tourism Council and VFS Global. The report emphasizes the need for simplified visa processes, better air connectivity, and marketing campaigns to highlight Africa's destinations. Key policies could drive annual growth of 6.5%, contributing over $350 billion to the economy. The sector, already contributing $186 billion and providing 25 million jobs, is poised for further growth with strategic investments and improved connectivity. Kenya and Rwanda are leading the way with visa-free entries, aiming to boost regional tourism and trade.

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Tourism Research Institute World Travel and Tourism Council

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Anthee Carassava is a journalist based in Athens, Greece.

Covid passports: Spain expects to be on green list by June and promises a warm welcome

01 Oct 2023  |  www.thetimes.com  |  English  |  Vaccination

Spain anticipates being on the UK's green list for travel by June, thanks to its progress in vaccination. The UK is developing a digital vaccination certificate via the NHS app to facilitate international travel. Portugal and Greece are also preparing to welcome British tourists, with Greece accepting handwritten NHS cards as proof of vaccination. The EU is working on a digital vaccination pass to aid global travel. The UK government is coordinating with international partners to ensure mutual recognition of vaccination certificates, aiming to restart travel by mid-May.

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World Travel and Tourism Council UK Government NHS European Union

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Sabina Castelfranco is a journalist based in Rome, Italy.

Italy counting on foreign tourists this summer as Covid restrictions ease

20 May 2021  |  Modern Ghana  |  English  |  Economic Recovery

A new decree by the Italian government easing Covid-19 restrictions has brought optimism as the country prepares to welcome tourists for the summer. Bars, restaurants, and other venues are reopening, and quarantine requirements for arrivals from Europe, Britain, and Israel have been removed. Despite the positive outlook, some, like hotel owner Monica Milandri, remain skeptical about a quick recovery for the tourism sector. The World Travel & Tourism Council reported a significant drop in tourism's contribution to Italy's GDP due to the pandemic. However, there is renewed hope with the return of visitors and the introduction of Covid-free flights from the US.

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World Travel & Tourism Council Italian government

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Ben Clatworthy is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

Why I take Foreign Office advice with a pinch of salt

18 Oct 2023  |  www.thetimes.co.uk  |  English  |  Foreign Policy

The article critiques the Foreign Office's travel advisories, arguing that while they serve an important role, they can often be overly blunt or opaque, potentially causing unnecessary fear and confusion among travelers. It highlights past inconsistencies during the pandemic and suggests that advisories should be more timely and relevant. The author emphasizes the importance of personal judgment and common sense when interpreting these advisories.

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World Travel and Tourism Council Foreign Office US State Department

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Enos Denhere is a distinguished freelance investigative journalist from Zimbabwe, renowned for his insightful reporting on a wide array of topics impacting both his home country and the broader African continent. With over a decade of experience, Denhere has developed a reputation for his ...

Irene Dominioni is a journalist based in Milano, Italy.

Italy’s Cultural Sector On The Lookout For Sponsors

29 Sept 2020  |  Forbes  |  English  |  Economic Impact

The coronavirus pandemic has severely impacted Italy's cultural sector, with a significant decline in tourism affecting financial stability. Rome has signed a two-year agreement with Unindustria to sponsor the maintenance of historical sites, allowing companies to display their support. High fashion brands and other companies have previously contributed to restoration efforts. The Italian government introduced the Art Bonus in 2014 to incentivize donations to the cultural sector. Intesa Sanpaolo has been a major supporter, with numerous cultural projects and exhibitions. The bank plans to open a new museum in Turin by the end of 2021, emphasizing the importance of cultural institutions and new technologies.

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World Travel & Tourism Council Unindustria Confindustria Italian Government

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Sarah Faith is a journalist based in Brighton, United Kingdom specialising in responsible, sustainable, and ethical travel.

Carbon offsetting is a dangerous distraction argues Sarah Faith. Here’s how to curb your holiday footprint instead.

05 Apr 2023  |  euronews  |  English  |  Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

In this article, Sarah Faith criticizes carbon offsetting as an ineffective solution to aviation emissions, arguing that it distracts from the need to reduce emissions. She points out that despite a temporary reduction during the pandemic, aviation emissions are expected to rise. Faith cites a European Commission report that found most offset schemes under the Kyoto Protocol failed to reduce emissions. She suggests alternatives for travelers to reduce their carbon footprint, such as flying less, taking trains, engaging in human-powered exploration, eating local and plant-based foods, and supporting nature-positive holidays. Faith also mentions new initiatives by airlines like British Airways, Lufthansa, and KLM to fund sustainable aviation fuel, but notes their effectiveness is still uncertain.

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World Travel and Tourism Council Byway Travel International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Exodus Cycling For Softies The Man in Seat 61 Kruger National Park Ol Pejeta Reserve Conservation International

Parisa Hashempour is a journalist based in Edinburgh, United Kingdom.

A new global tourism coalition, announced at COP26, aims to drive a more sustainable future for the industry

01 Nov 2021  |  www.businessinsider.com  |  English  |  Global Coalition

At COP26, a new global tourism coalition was announced, aiming to transform the travel sector into a leader for sustainability. The coalition, supported by the Sustainable Tourism Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, seeks to address the tourism industry's significant carbon footprint and promote environmental and economic sustainability. Key figures, including former Mexican President Felipe Calderón and Saudi Arabia's Tourism Minister Ahmed Al Khateeb, highlighted the importance of the sector for local economies and the potential for green innovation. Countries like Kenya are already implementing sustainable practices, with plans to make wildlife parks green by 2030. The coalition includes various countries and organizations, emphasizing the need for action and investment in technological innovations to achieve net-zero emissions.

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World Travel & Tourism Council Sustainable Tourism Center (STGC) SYSTEMIQ International Chamber of Commerce

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Sarah Hedley Hymers is a broadcast, print and web journalist based between Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and London, UK. Sarah hosts food and travel TV shows for the international channel Euronews; her latest show explored the lesser-known mountainous region of Aseer in Saudi Arabia. She is also a ...

Full travel and tourism recovery within touching distance, says WTTC

01 Feb 2023  |  www.connectingtravel.com  |  English  |  Economic Impact

The travel and tourism sector is nearing full recovery, with GDP forecasted to reach $9.5 trillion in 2023, just 5% below 2019 levels. Employment in the sector is also rebounding, with job numbers expected to reach 95% of pre-pandemic levels. The reopening of China's borders is anticipated to further accelerate recovery. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) projects that by 2033, the sector will contribute $15.5 trillion to global GDP and employ 430 million people. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, expressed optimism about the sector's resilience and future growth.

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World Travel & Tourism Council Oxford Economics Chinese government

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Shuchita is a freelance journalist currently based in France. After working with The Times of India in India for 4 years, she moved to France to explore new cultures. Having expertise in beats like Women and Child Development, Culture, Travel and Education she is now working on these issues and ...

Trump’s Taj Mahal tour guide and others out of work since COVID lockdown

01 Sept 2021  |  countercurrents.org  |  English  |  Economic Impact

Since the COVID-19 lockdown in March 2020, tourist guides in Agra, India, including Nitin Singh who guided Donald Trump, have been out of work. The tourism sector, which contributes significantly to India's GDP and employment, has been severely affected. Despite financial support measures by the government, such as loans for tourist guides and stakeholders, many in the industry are struggling without a steady income. Some have shifted to alternative professions, while others call for government aid similar to France's tourism support. The Indian government has launched the 'Dekho Apna Desh' campaign to promote domestic tourism and is planning to boost inbound tourism with international campaigns.

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World Travel and Tourism Council Ministry of Tourism UP Tourism Approved Tourist Guide Association FICCI Indian Government

Edmund Kagire is a journalist based in Kigali, Rwanda. The 35-year old award-winning Rwandan Journalist was until the end of 2018 was working with The East African & Rwanda Today newspapers owned by Nation Media Group (NMG), with 12 years of practice.

Currently he has diverted into freelance ...

Regional Tour Operators Upbeat About 2024 Prospects

07 Jan 2024  |  KT PRESS  |  English  |  MICE Sector

The article discusses the projected boom in the tourism and travel industry in Rwanda and the East African region for 2024, following a strong recovery in 2023. It highlights the positive impact of Rwanda's open visa policy and the single EAC tourist visa on increasing tourist numbers. The Rwanda Development Board reported a 56% increase in tourism revenue in the first half of 2023 compared to 2022. The MICE sector in Rwanda is also expected to grow, with the country hosting major events like the Basketball Africa League. The National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda noted a 7.5% GDP growth in Q3 of 2023, with tourism contributing significantly. Domestic tourism is on the rise, with Rwandans and expatriates exploring national parks and other attractions. Tour operators like Kigali Car Rentals and Darius Tours and Travel are offering innovative packages to capitalize on this trend. However, challenges such as insecurity on the DRC border are noted as potential impediments to travel.

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World Travel & Tourism Council National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) Basketball Africa League (BAL) Move Afrika

**Available for EU CoronaVirus coverage from home studio**

Dave Keating is an American journalist covering European politics. Having previously covered US politics in Washington, Dave specializes in drawing comparisons between the American federal system and the European Union.

Dave has ...

COP28: is the UN climate process ignoring the tourism sector?

22 Nov 2023  |  Hotel Management Network  |  English  |  COP28

The tourism sector, responsible for 8% of global carbon emissions, is notably absent from the agenda of the COP28 UN climate summit in Dubai. Despite its significant environmental impact and economic importance, the sector lacks representation in climate discussions. Industry leaders like Ajay Prakash and Nicanor Sabula emphasize the need for tourism to play a more active role in sustainability efforts. Travel agents are developing green travel packages and promoting less crowded destinations to mitigate environmental damage. However, the challenge remains in balancing economic dependence on tourism with the need for sustainable practices.

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Eastern and Southern African travel agents association International Council on Clean Transportation World Tourism Organization Travel Agents Federation of India UN International Transport Forum Sustainable Hospitality Alliance Booking.com

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Samuel Okocha is a journalist based in Nigeria’s commercial capital, Lagos. He has extensive experience as a broadcaster, news editor, and freelance multimedia journalist.

As a multimedia journalist, he has produced content for international broadcast media outlets such as Voice of America, NPR, ...

Tourism as a Foreign Exchange Earner for Nigeria

01 Oct 2023  |  Voice of Nigeria  |  English  |  Foreign Exchange

Nigeria will host the first United Nations World Tourism Organisation Global Conference on Tourism, Culture, and the Creative Industry in Lagos from November 14 to 16. This event is expected to boost Nigeria's tourism industry, which has significant potential for foreign exchange earnings. Despite a low ranking in the World Economic Forum's Travel and Tourism competitiveness report, Nigeria's diverse tourist attractions, such as the Yankari Game Reserve and Olumo Rock, offer substantial opportunities. The tourism sector's growth could rival current earnings from crude oil, provided there is improved infrastructure, security, and investment. The World Travel & Tourism Council forecasts the creation of 2.6 million new jobs in Nigeria's tourism sector over the next decade.

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World Travel & Tourism Council World Economic Forum United Nations World Tourism Organisation

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Elizabeth Palacios is a journalist based in Ciudad de México, Mexico. She can make works about soft news, travel, gourmet, life & style issues. Furthermore she can do profiles and features about health, human rights, gender, science and business. She has write for BBC News (London) Esquire Latam, ...

How valid are the safe travel stamps in the summer of 2021?

25 Jul 2021  |  La Unión de Morelos  |  Spanish  |  Tourism Industry

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) launched the 'safe travel' stamp last year to help reactivate the tourism industry, which is vital for some countries. Despite this, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the emergence of new virus variants have raised questions about the safety of these destinations. The article uses the example of the Riviera Maya in Mexico, which received the stamp but has seen an increase in infections. The author reflects on their own travel experiences and observes that the validity of such a stamp not only depends on institutions like the WTTC or governments but also on the civic responsibility of travelers. The author is currently in Querétaro, which has returned to a 'yellow' COVID-19 traffic light status, and shares observations on the local adherence to sanitary protocols.

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United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC)

Lorna Parkes is a journalist based in Leeds, United Kingdom.

How US tourism recovery could be hijacked by Roe vs Wade and abortion rights

30 Jun 2022  |  www.euronews.com  |  English  |  Roe vs Wade

The US tourism industry faces potential setbacks following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe vs Wade, which has led to immediate abortion bans in several states. This development raises ethical questions for travelers and could impact both leisure and business travel. While some argue for boycotts to show solidarity with affected women, others worry about the economic impact on local communities. Historical precedents like the 'Trump slump' suggest domestic politics can influence tourism. Key tourist destinations in states poised to criminalize abortion may see reduced visitor numbers, affecting the broader travel and tourism sector's recovery post-pandemic.

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Women in Travel CIC World Travel & Tourism Council Supreme Court

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Andrew Rosenbaum is a journalist specialising in business, finance, banking, insurance, reinsurance, asset allocation, wealth management, software and telecommunications based in Larnaca, Cyprus.

Little change expected in UK ‘Green list’ countries on Thursday

23 Jun 2021  |  Cyprus Mail  |  English  |  UK Politics

The UK government is set to review its Traffic Light classification system for travel destinations, but little change is expected. The PC Agency and other reports suggest political interference is hindering travel recovery. Malta has the best chance of being added to the green list due to high vaccination rates. The World Travel & Tourism Council warns of significant economic losses and job risks if international travel remains restricted. The government is considering removing quarantine for fully-vaccinated travelers to Amber-classified countries, but no immediate changes are expected.

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World Travel & Tourism Council UK Government The PC Agency

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LISA SCHLEIN is a freelance journalist based in Geneva, Switzerland.  My reporting is largely centered around United Nations activities, including human rights, humanitarian (refugee and migration) issues, international political events, health, environment and development with a focus on Africa.  
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Booming Tourist Industry Boosting African Economies

05 Jul 2017  |  Voice of America  |  English  |  Intra-African Tourism

The UN Conference on Trade and Development's report highlights the significant growth of the tourism sector in Africa, with projections indicating a substantial increase in its contribution to the continent's GDP by 2026. The report emphasizes the rise of intra-African tourism, which has surpassed visitors from other continents, and operates year-round, providing more sustainable livelihoods. However, UNCTAD's secretary-general, Mukhisa Kituyi, points out that the potential of regional tourism is not fully realized due to restrictive air transport policies. He notes that the majority of air traffic is dominated by just four countries, and high landing costs for airlines within Africa due to protectionist policies are impeding the reduction of travel expenses and the expansion of tourism. Kituyi advocates for the liberalization of air transport to enhance economic growth through increased intra-continental travel.

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World Travel and Tourism Council UN Conference on Trade and Development

Javira Ssebwami is a journalist based in Kampala, Uganda. He is an online journalist in Uganda currently working with PML Daily as a field reporter and Editor. ******

Diana Museveni holds maiden fundraising dinner for Uganda chimpanzee conservation strategy

07 Dec 2023  |  www.pmldaily.com  |  English  |  Fundraising Event

Diana Museveni Kyaremera led the inaugural fundraising for the Uganda Chimpanzee Conservation strategy at State House, Entebbe, with support from the Jane Goodall Institute and tourism industry. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni praised Uganda's unique conservation environment and advised on integrating economic development with wildlife protection. The event highlighted the tourism sector's contribution to Uganda's GDP and its recovery post-COVID-19. The Minister of Tourism and other officials emphasized the endangered status of chimpanzees and the importance of conservation efforts. The event raised significant funds, including a Shs1Billion contribution from President Museveni.

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World Travel and Tourism Council Jane Goodall Institute Uganda Wildlife Authority

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Hawawu Suleimana is a result oriented multiple award winning multimedia journalist, voice-over artist, show and event host. She has over 15 years of TV interview skills, live reports, live shows , panel discussions and is based in Frankfurt, Germany. With her rich travel experience in Africa and ...

World Tourism Day

27 Sept 2019  |  www.africanews.com  |  English  |  Global Economy

Africanews journalist Hawa Suleiman Brimah highlights Africa's tourism potential within the global tourism industry, which contributed $8.8 trillion to the global economy in 2018, growing faster than the global economy for eight consecutive years. The discussion, featuring Christabel Eboh and Ebi Harry at the Dubai World Trade Center, underscores the significance of tourism in global economic activity.

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World Travel and Tourism Council EyesOnDubai

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Darren Taylor is a journalist based in Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa. He has been reporting on current affairs throughout Africa since the early 1990s. He specializes in longer form, in depth investigative and human interest features, for both radio and print, but is equally adept at short-...

Africa: Target 'Niche' Chinese Travelers, Not Numbers, Tourism Experts Tell Africa

07 Aug 2023  |  allAfrica.com  |  English  |  Chinese Travelers

African countries are heavily investing in attracting Chinese tourists to recover from COVID-19 pandemic losses. Experts suggest focusing on niche markets rather than mass tourism, emphasizing unique cultural and wildlife experiences. Challenges include government inefficiency and complicated visa processes. Marketing efforts should target diverse interests and leverage Chinese social media platforms. Business travelers from China present an additional opportunity to boost leisure tourism.

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South African Tourism World Travel and Tourism Council The Journey Moi University FEDHASA

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