Leading up to the seventh edition of the Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa in June, the African Hospitality Confidence Index 2024 offers key insights into the trends shaping the hospitality sector on the continent.

“The latest Confidence Index paints a vivid picture of a vibrant, positive industry in which the majority, at 80%, of hotel, bar and restaurant operators, along with industry suppliers are looking to the future with growing confidence and optimism,” says Margaret Peters, Event Manager for Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa at dmg events South Africa.

“Many businesses have recovered from the pandemic and are entering a new growth phase encompassing greater technological development, increased access to financing and a focus on nurturing industry talent, whereby 55% of respondents now have systems to foster employee satisfaction and loyalty.”

An impressive 92% of respondents highlight the significance of ‘bleisure,’ with business and leisure tourists constituting a substantial portion of customers. The rising popularity of ‘bleisure’ is driven by a combination of pent-up travel demand post-pandemic and the increasing prevalence of remote work. The emphasis on achieving a better work-life balance is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the tourism and hospitality industry in the coming decade. Projections indicate that the global bleisure market’s value will more than double from 2022 levels, reaching $731.4 billion worldwide by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.9%.

The Confidence Index offers a profound understanding of emerging trends from industry insiders. Peters adds that it serves as a valuable reference point for peers in the industry, particularly with the integration of AI and a heightened focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors amid increased competition for customers.

A significant 89% of respondents stress the importance of ESG action for the sector’s long-term success, although there is ongoing work to bring this commitment to fruition. Those who have implemented ESG measures, such as green or renewable energy and increased recycling, report positive business outcomes, with 57% noting enhanced customer satisfaction and loyalty.

The Confidence Index, now in its second year, is a comprehensive and up-to-date snapshot of the African hospitality industry. Jointly conducted by dmg & Kaoun and Moore Global, this annual research initiative captures evolving industry perceptions. Participation has grown from 315 respondents in 2023 to 537 (+70%) in 2024, with representation from almost double the number of African countries compared to the previous year (17 to 30). Notably, suppliers were included as participating respondents for the first time, enabling this crucial industry segment to contribute their perspectives.

With the African continent projected to be the world’s second fastest-growing economic region and boasting the youngest and fastest-growing population globally, reaching 2.5 billion by 2050, there is anticipated growth in the middle class and the emergence of megacities with populations exceeding 10 million. These factors are expected to drive increased demand for hospitality services.

“This growth will lead to an increasingly complex operating environment, particularly as digital transformation and modern measures can boost the bottom line and improve guest experiences,” adds Moore’s Takacs.

“The industry across Africa remains ambitious, optimistic, and determined to overcome challenges and embrace opportunities.”

The 2024 edition of the Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa, scheduled for June 11-13, 2024, at the Sandton Convention Centre, aims to bring together industry players to foster growth, networking, and overall success.

The post Africa’s Tourism thrives in second hospitality confidence index appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Leading up to the seventh edition of the Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa in June, the African Hospitality Confidence Index 2024 offers key insights into the trends shaping the hospitality sector on the continent.

“The latest Confidence Index paints a vivid picture of a vibrant, positive industry in which the majority, at 80%, of hotel, bar and restaurant operators, along with industry suppliers are looking to the future with growing confidence and optimism,” says Margaret Peters, Event Manager for Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa at dmg events South Africa.

“Many businesses have recovered from the pandemic and are entering a new growth phase encompassing greater technological development, increased access to financing and a focus on nurturing industry talent, whereby 55% of respondents now have systems to foster employee satisfaction and loyalty.”

An impressive 92% of respondents highlight the significance of ‘bleisure,’ with business and leisure tourists constituting a substantial portion of customers. The rising popularity of ‘bleisure’ is driven by a combination of pent-up travel demand post-pandemic and the increasing prevalence of remote work. The emphasis on achieving a better work-life balance is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the tourism and hospitality industry in the coming decade. Projections indicate that the global bleisure market’s value will more than double from 2022 levels, reaching $731.4 billion worldwide by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.9%.

The Confidence Index offers a profound understanding of emerging trends from industry insiders. Peters adds that it serves as a valuable reference point for peers in the industry, particularly with the integration of AI and a heightened focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors amid increased competition for customers.

A significant 89% of respondents stress the importance of ESG action for the sector’s long-term success, although there is ongoing work to bring this commitment to fruition. Those who have implemented ESG measures, such as green or renewable energy and increased recycling, report positive business outcomes, with 57% noting enhanced customer satisfaction and loyalty.

The Confidence Index, now in its second year, is a comprehensive and up-to-date snapshot of the African hospitality industry. Jointly conducted by dmg & Kaoun and Moore Global, this annual research initiative captures evolving industry perceptions. Participation has grown from 315 respondents in 2023 to 537 (+70%) in 2024, with representation from almost double the number of African countries compared to the previous year (17 to 30). Notably, suppliers were included as participating respondents for the first time, enabling this crucial industry segment to contribute their perspectives.

With the African continent projected to be the world’s second fastest-growing economic region and boasting the youngest and fastest-growing population globally, reaching 2.5 billion by 2050, there is anticipated growth in the middle class and the emergence of megacities with populations exceeding 10 million. These factors are expected to drive increased demand for hospitality services.

“This growth will lead to an increasingly complex operating environment, particularly as digital transformation and modern measures can boost the bottom line and improve guest experiences,” adds Moore’s Takacs.

“The industry across Africa remains ambitious, optimistic, and determined to overcome challenges and embrace opportunities.”

The 2024 edition of the Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa, scheduled for June 11-13, 2024, at the Sandton Convention Centre, aims to bring together industry players to foster growth, networking, and overall success.

The post Africa’s Tourism thrives in second hospitality confidence index appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

The magnificent Iguazú Falls in Argentina, world’s largest waterfall, recently entered in a historic chapter for destination weddings. The first international wedding for LGBTQ duo on January 25th was organized in this natural setting, creating a precedent for inclusion and diversity in the tourism landscape of Argentina.

By a new law passed in the Province of Misiones, the milestone was made possible which identifies Iguazu Falls as a permissible place for weddings for non-residents. This new step places Argentina as a widely assorted and welcoming country, at the same time passing on a strong message of acceptance to the entire world.

The Municipal Tourism Board and the Ministry of Tourism of Misiones, together with Upgrade Iguazú, a tourism consultancy devoted toward the marketing of comprehensive experiences- reached an understanding with Fabulous Weddings, a well-known company hosting weddings for non-residents and LGBTQ+ duos. Established in 2010, Fabulous Weddings has been aiding couple’s world over to get married in Argentina and legally declare their marriages for more than ten years.

A meeting on a dating app turned into a deep connection, rebelling against the limitations imposed by distance and legal obstacles. The duo, Benjamin Shropshire and Manuel Santiago married in Salto Dos Hermanos, after maintaining a long-distance relationship for years.

The post Iguazú Falls organized international LGBTQ+ wedding for the first time appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

The magnificent Iguazú Falls in Argentina, world’s largest waterfall, recently entered in a historic chapter for destination weddings. The first international wedding for LGBTQ duo on January 25th was organized in this natural setting, creating a precedent for inclusion and diversity in the tourism landscape of Argentina.

By a new law passed in the Province of Misiones, the milestone was made possible which identifies Iguazu Falls as a permissible place for weddings for non-residents. This new step places Argentina as a widely assorted and welcoming country, at the same time passing on a strong message of acceptance to the entire world.

The Municipal Tourism Board and the Ministry of Tourism of Misiones, together with Upgrade Iguazú, a tourism consultancy devoted toward the marketing of comprehensive experiences- reached an understanding with Fabulous Weddings, a well-known company hosting weddings for non-residents and LGBTQ+ duos. Established in 2010, Fabulous Weddings has been aiding couple’s world over to get married in Argentina and legally declare their marriages for more than ten years.

A meeting on a dating app turned into a deep connection, rebelling against the limitations imposed by distance and legal obstacles. The duo, Benjamin Shropshire and Manuel Santiago married in Salto Dos Hermanos, after maintaining a long-distance relationship for years.

The post Iguazú Falls organized international LGBTQ+ wedding for the first time appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

In 2023, the Global Mosquito Repellent Clothing Market was valued at USD 342 Million and by 2030, it is hoped to reach USD 520.8 Million, observing a CAGR of 6.2% at the time of the prediction period 2024-2030.

The market related to mosquito-repellent clothing is growing fast because of several variables coming together. The urgency for innovative solutions, like clothing that deters mosquitoes, has grown a lot because of the increasing awareness of health and wellness along with improved knowledge of vector-borne illnesses.

The effectiveness and coziness of these types of clothes have been enhanced by technological improvements in fabric technology, and their rising acceptance has actually caused a major rise in outdoor recreational activities and environmental concerns.

Government programs, particularly those relating to public health operations, have acted as motivations, as the rising travel and tourist industry has generated a need for protective gear worldwide. Urbanization and rising disposable wealth have together driven the sector even more and offer customers with a wide choice of fashionable and environmentally friendly solutions.

Own It Today – Buy Now! https://reports.valuates.com/api/directpaytoken?rcode=QYRE-Auto-24W7142&lic=single-user

As more and more people are getting conscious of the risks of vector-borne diseases, the market for mosquito-repellent clothing is growing fast. Now, people are understanding how significant it is to guard themselves from mosquito bites due to widespread occurrences of dengue fever, and other illnesses.

The post Mosquito repellent clothing market to reach 520.8 million by 2030 appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

In 2023, the Global Mosquito Repellent Clothing Market was valued at USD 342 Million and by 2030, it is hoped to reach USD 520.8 Million, observing a CAGR of 6.2% at the time of the prediction period 2024-2030.

The market related to mosquito-repellent clothing is growing fast because of several variables coming together. The urgency for innovative solutions, like clothing that deters mosquitoes, has grown a lot because of the increasing awareness of health and wellness along with improved knowledge of vector-borne illnesses.

The effectiveness and coziness of these types of clothes have been enhanced by technological improvements in fabric technology, and their rising acceptance has actually caused a major rise in outdoor recreational activities and environmental concerns.

Government programs, particularly those relating to public health operations, have acted as motivations, as the rising travel and tourist industry has generated a need for protective gear worldwide. Urbanization and rising disposable wealth have together driven the sector even more and offer customers with a wide choice of fashionable and environmentally friendly solutions.

Own It Today – Buy Now! https://reports.valuates.com/api/directpaytoken?rcode=QYRE-Auto-24W7142&lic=single-user

As more and more people are getting conscious of the risks of vector-borne diseases, the market for mosquito-repellent clothing is growing fast. Now, people are understanding how significant it is to guard themselves from mosquito bites due to widespread occurrences of dengue fever, and other illnesses.

The post Mosquito repellent clothing market to reach 520.8 million by 2030 appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Saudi Arabia’s national tourism brand, ‘Saudi Welcome To Arabia,’ has launched a new global marketing campaign featuring renowned footballer and Saudi Tourism Ambassador, Lionel Messi.

The “Go Beyond What You Think” campaign, targeting key markets in Europe, India, and China, aims to dispel common misconceptions about the destination. It invites audiences to witness the remarkable cultural transformation happening across Saudi Arabia and encourages those familiar with the country to share their positive experiences and memories on TikTok and social channels using the bilingual hashtags #ShareYourSaudi.

This latest campaign utilizes a multi-platform approach, combining TV, Social, Digital, and OTA tactics over a three-month period. It aligns with Saudi Tourism’s broader initiatives to promote a more inclusive perspective and foster cultural bridges through tourism.

Inspired by the UN Tourism initiative, ‘Tourism Opens Minds,’ launched in Riyadh on World Tourism Day in September 2023, the campaign echoes the call for travelers to broaden horizons and explore lesser-known destinations. Both governments and consumers pledged to promote and embrace new cultures and destinations.

Lionel Messi, a frequent visitor to Saudi Arabia, especially with his family, is a prominent figure who has taken this pledge. The campaign’s powerful call-to-action challenges visitors to go beyond outdated stereotypes, as Messi features in a hero video breaking down metaphorical ‘walls’ of misconceptions about the country.

The video showcases Saudi Arabia’s diverse landscapes, including the Red Sea’s pristine waters, Aseer’s lush green mountains, snow-covered Tabuk, the coastal city of Jeddah, and the bustling capital Riyadh. Highlighting various activities and attractions, the campaign features the Diriyah E-Prix, Riyadh Season’s theme park rides, AlUla’s hot air balloon flights, and MDL Beast music events.

Additionally, the campaign emphasizes Saudi Arabia’s open and welcoming culture, particularly inspiring young Saudi women to reach their full potential. Messi celebrates trailblazers such as the Saudi Women’s National football team, motorsport athlete Dania Akeel, DJ Cosmicat, and Rayyanah Barnawi, the first Saudi woman in space.

Saudi Arabia continues to pave the way for tourism development and growth, focusing on sustainability and fostering world-class culture, entertainment, and sports scenes. The country comes alive during its sunny Winter Season, hosting 17,000 events this year, making it ‘the world’s most happening winter.’ Notable events include Riyadh Season, Jeddah Season, Diriyah Season, the Saudi Cup, Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, AlUla Arts Festival, AlUla skies festival, and more.

The campaign launches ahead of Messi’s anticipated return to Saudi Arabia, playing two matches with his current club, Inter Miami, against Al Nassr on February 1 and Al Hilal on January 29.

Visiting Saudi Arabia has never been easier, with continuous developments in visa initiatives. The eVisa program now includes 63 countries and special administrative regions, alongside the GCC residents visa and the free 96-hour Stopover Visa. Stopover Visa holders can enjoy a complimentary one-night hotel stay during their stopover when booking with the national carrier, SAUDIA, and use the visa to explore Saudi Arabia or perform Umrah.

The post Lionel Messi leads ‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’ in the latest ‘beyond expectations’ tourism campaign appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Saudi Arabia’s national tourism brand, ‘Saudi Welcome To Arabia,’ has launched a new global marketing campaign featuring renowned footballer and Saudi Tourism Ambassador, Lionel Messi.

The “Go Beyond What You Think” campaign, targeting key markets in Europe, India, and China, aims to dispel common misconceptions about the destination. It invites audiences to witness the remarkable cultural transformation happening across Saudi Arabia and encourages those familiar with the country to share their positive experiences and memories on TikTok and social channels using the bilingual hashtags #ShareYourSaudi.

This latest campaign utilizes a multi-platform approach, combining TV, Social, Digital, and OTA tactics over a three-month period. It aligns with Saudi Tourism’s broader initiatives to promote a more inclusive perspective and foster cultural bridges through tourism.

Inspired by the UN Tourism initiative, ‘Tourism Opens Minds,’ launched in Riyadh on World Tourism Day in September 2023, the campaign echoes the call for travelers to broaden horizons and explore lesser-known destinations. Both governments and consumers pledged to promote and embrace new cultures and destinations.

Lionel Messi, a frequent visitor to Saudi Arabia, especially with his family, is a prominent figure who has taken this pledge. The campaign’s powerful call-to-action challenges visitors to go beyond outdated stereotypes, as Messi features in a hero video breaking down metaphorical ‘walls’ of misconceptions about the country.

The video showcases Saudi Arabia’s diverse landscapes, including the Red Sea’s pristine waters, Aseer’s lush green mountains, snow-covered Tabuk, the coastal city of Jeddah, and the bustling capital Riyadh. Highlighting various activities and attractions, the campaign features the Diriyah E-Prix, Riyadh Season’s theme park rides, AlUla’s hot air balloon flights, and MDL Beast music events.

Additionally, the campaign emphasizes Saudi Arabia’s open and welcoming culture, particularly inspiring young Saudi women to reach their full potential. Messi celebrates trailblazers such as the Saudi Women’s National football team, motorsport athlete Dania Akeel, DJ Cosmicat, and Rayyanah Barnawi, the first Saudi woman in space.

Saudi Arabia continues to pave the way for tourism development and growth, focusing on sustainability and fostering world-class culture, entertainment, and sports scenes. The country comes alive during its sunny Winter Season, hosting 17,000 events this year, making it ‘the world’s most happening winter.’ Notable events include Riyadh Season, Jeddah Season, Diriyah Season, the Saudi Cup, Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, AlUla Arts Festival, AlUla skies festival, and more.

The campaign launches ahead of Messi’s anticipated return to Saudi Arabia, playing two matches with his current club, Inter Miami, against Al Nassr on February 1 and Al Hilal on January 29.

Visiting Saudi Arabia has never been easier, with continuous developments in visa initiatives. The eVisa program now includes 63 countries and special administrative regions, alongside the GCC residents visa and the free 96-hour Stopover Visa. Stopover Visa holders can enjoy a complimentary one-night hotel stay during their stopover when booking with the national carrier, SAUDIA, and use the visa to explore Saudi Arabia or perform Umrah.

The post Lionel Messi leads ‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’ in the latest ‘beyond expectations’ tourism campaign appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

With unprecedented snowfall in various cities and the likelihood of more winter storms, travelers are preparing for disruptions to their upcoming trips. In 2024, these storms have already caused ground stops at major airports, causing numerous delays and cancellations. Many passengers have experienced the frustration of losing precious vacation time or even missing their trips entirely.

Stay Updated on Weather: Keep track of the weather forecast for your destination and along your travel route to anticipate potential disruptions.

Allocate Extra Travel Time: Factor in additional time for your journey to the airport during winter conditions. Missing a flight due to traffic is not covered by travel insurance, except for road closures or accidents.

Secure Your Trip: Consider travel insurance to reimburse expenses in case of cancellations due to inclement weather. Most Trip Cancellation plans cover winter storms, hurricanes, and severe weather events.

Purchase Coverage Early: Ensure eligibility for coverage by buying your policy before the storm is officially named.

Cover Winter Sports: If your trip involves skiing or snowboarding, opt for plans with the Sports & Activities benefit to protect against injuries on the slopes and safeguard your winter equipment.

Keep Emergency Contacts: Save contact information for local emergency services and your travel insurance provider’s 24-hour assistance service, so you’re prepared in case of a winter-related disaster.Squaremouth.com has provided insurance coverage for more than 3 million travelers. Utilizing Squaremouth’s user-friendly quoting and comparison engine, along with their award-winning support team and authenticated customer reviews, travelers can efficiently save both time and money in selecting the optimal travel insurance policy for their trip.

The post Squaremouth’s winter travel survival tips appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

With unprecedented snowfall in various cities and the likelihood of more winter storms, travelers are preparing for disruptions to their upcoming trips. In 2024, these storms have already caused ground stops at major airports, causing numerous delays and cancellations. Many passengers have experienced the frustration of losing precious vacation time or even missing their trips entirely.

Stay Updated on Weather: Keep track of the weather forecast for your destination and along your travel route to anticipate potential disruptions.

Allocate Extra Travel Time: Factor in additional time for your journey to the airport during winter conditions. Missing a flight due to traffic is not covered by travel insurance, except for road closures or accidents.

Secure Your Trip: Consider travel insurance to reimburse expenses in case of cancellations due to inclement weather. Most Trip Cancellation plans cover winter storms, hurricanes, and severe weather events.

Purchase Coverage Early: Ensure eligibility for coverage by buying your policy before the storm is officially named.

Cover Winter Sports: If your trip involves skiing or snowboarding, opt for plans with the Sports & Activities benefit to protect against injuries on the slopes and safeguard your winter equipment.

Keep Emergency Contacts: Save contact information for local emergency services and your travel insurance provider’s 24-hour assistance service, so you’re prepared in case of a winter-related disaster.Squaremouth.com has provided insurance coverage for more than 3 million travelers. Utilizing Squaremouth’s user-friendly quoting and comparison engine, along with their award-winning support team and authenticated customer reviews, travelers can efficiently save both time and money in selecting the optimal travel insurance policy for their trip.

The post Squaremouth’s winter travel survival tips appeared first on Travel And Tour World.