The Kerala cabinet’s support to the suggestion for creating a devoted engineering section in the Tourism Department will enable time-bound and lucrative execution of projects in this vital division, in addition to guaranteeing excellence and responsibility. This was stated by Kerala Tourism Minister Shri P A Mohamed Riyas. The minister said that it is important that this resolution comes at a time when Kerala Tourism is witnessing a great development path to exceed all earlier records.

A distinct engineering section will aid in prompt execution of several projects in a profitable way while confirming extraordinary quality. This will also increase responsibility in project execution, said Minister Riyas. From now, it would be the accountability of this division to see that new properties are created within the time-frame and development prices set for them and the prevailing ones preserved at the same time, with a supreme sense of liability.

Right now, 416 ventures valued at approximately Rs. 250 crore are under way, comprising those with assistance from the Center. These are being implemented by numerous agencies under the management of 17 project engineers in the Tourism Division, who are all contract workers. The agencies charge for project implementation and also impose centage charges that comprise 4 to 7 per cent of the decided Probable Amount of Contract (PAC) as per this planning. The creation of an engineering section within the division will significantly decrease the monetary obligation equated to the prevailing arrangement, said Minister Riyas.

The post Distinct engineering section in Kerala Tourism department appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

The Kerala cabinet’s support to the suggestion for creating a devoted engineering section in the Tourism Department will enable time-bound and lucrative execution of projects in this vital division, in addition to guaranteeing excellence and responsibility. This was stated by Kerala Tourism Minister Shri P A Mohamed Riyas. The minister said that it is important that this resolution comes at a time when Kerala Tourism is witnessing a great development path to exceed all earlier records.

A distinct engineering section will aid in prompt execution of several projects in a profitable way while confirming extraordinary quality. This will also increase responsibility in project execution, said Minister Riyas. From now, it would be the accountability of this division to see that new properties are created within the time-frame and development prices set for them and the prevailing ones preserved at the same time, with a supreme sense of liability.

Right now, 416 ventures valued at approximately Rs. 250 crore are under way, comprising those with assistance from the Center. These are being implemented by numerous agencies under the management of 17 project engineers in the Tourism Division, who are all contract workers. The agencies charge for project implementation and also impose centage charges that comprise 4 to 7 per cent of the decided Probable Amount of Contract (PAC) as per this planning. The creation of an engineering section within the division will significantly decrease the monetary obligation equated to the prevailing arrangement, said Minister Riyas.

The post Distinct engineering section in Kerala Tourism department appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Tourism Malaysia clinched the top honor in the Transportation, Travel & Tourism category at the 2023 Putra Aria Brand Awards, held at One World Hotel, Petaling Jaya.

Introduced in 2022 by the Association of Accredited Advertising Agents Malaysia (4As), the Aria Brand Awards, also known as the People’s Choice Awards, aim to recognize brands with a significant connection to Malaysians. Determined by 11,000 respondents who voluntarily participated in an 8-week survey from September to October 2023, these awards have gained MATRADE’s endorsement as the Brand Champion Partner and the support of the Malaysian Advertisers Association (MAA), the Media Specialists Association (MSA), and the Malaysian Digital Association (MDA).

Competing in 24 categories spanning tourism, automobile, banking, communications, e-commerce, entertainment, investment & insurance, and media, brands were evaluated by survey participants based on brand familiarity, brand experience, overall impression, intention to purchase, and advocacy among peers and family. A total of 40 brands secured gold, 50 brands earned silver, and 60 brands attained bronze.

YBhg. Dato’ Dr. Ammar Abd Ghapar, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, expressed, “The year 2024 begins on a positive note with the reception of this award, marking the second consecutive recognition. This achievement serves as a significant enhancement to our brand image and undoubtedly reflects the promotional endeavours undertaken by Tourism Malaysia.”

In a prior achievement, Tourism Malaysia had previously secured the Bronze award in the same category at the 2022 Putra Brand Awards, underscoring the ongoing commitment to excellence in promoting Malaysia’s diverse attractions and vibrant culture.

The post Tourism Malaysia achieves Gold at the Putra Aria Brand Awards 2023 appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Tourism Malaysia clinched the top honor in the Transportation, Travel & Tourism category at the 2023 Putra Aria Brand Awards, held at One World Hotel, Petaling Jaya.

Introduced in 2022 by the Association of Accredited Advertising Agents Malaysia (4As), the Aria Brand Awards, also known as the People’s Choice Awards, aim to recognize brands with a significant connection to Malaysians. Determined by 11,000 respondents who voluntarily participated in an 8-week survey from September to October 2023, these awards have gained MATRADE’s endorsement as the Brand Champion Partner and the support of the Malaysian Advertisers Association (MAA), the Media Specialists Association (MSA), and the Malaysian Digital Association (MDA).

Competing in 24 categories spanning tourism, automobile, banking, communications, e-commerce, entertainment, investment & insurance, and media, brands were evaluated by survey participants based on brand familiarity, brand experience, overall impression, intention to purchase, and advocacy among peers and family. A total of 40 brands secured gold, 50 brands earned silver, and 60 brands attained bronze.

YBhg. Dato’ Dr. Ammar Abd Ghapar, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, expressed, “The year 2024 begins on a positive note with the reception of this award, marking the second consecutive recognition. This achievement serves as a significant enhancement to our brand image and undoubtedly reflects the promotional endeavours undertaken by Tourism Malaysia.”

In a prior achievement, Tourism Malaysia had previously secured the Bronze award in the same category at the 2022 Putra Brand Awards, underscoring the ongoing commitment to excellence in promoting Malaysia’s diverse attractions and vibrant culture.

The post Tourism Malaysia achieves Gold at the Putra Aria Brand Awards 2023 appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Los Angeles in association with STARLUX Airlines is happy to declare the introduction of flights from Los Angeles and San Francisco to Chiang Mai, which is an attractive traditional place in Thailand. Beginning from January 16th, STARLUX Airlines, well-known for their first-class facility will offer expedient entrance to the exciting region of Northern Thailand.

Rejoicing this new endeavor, TAT Los Angeles and STARLUX Airlines organized a cultural occasion on January 16th at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The occasion presented the exclusive customs of Chiang Mai emphasizing TAT’s commitment toward promoting US-Thailand travel.

Commuters on the opening flight from LAX received distinct ‘Elephant Pants’ to represent the generosity that waits for them in Chiang Mai.

Pornpan Intratat, the Director of TAT Los Angeles said that they are pleased to join hands with STARLUX Airlines to deliver continuous flights from the USA non-stop to Chiang Mai’s pulsating environment. 

The post TAT joins with STARLUX Airlines for introducing new flights appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Los Angeles in association with STARLUX Airlines is happy to declare the introduction of flights from Los Angeles and San Francisco to Chiang Mai, which is an attractive traditional place in Thailand. Beginning from January 16th, STARLUX Airlines, well-known for their first-class facility will offer expedient entrance to the exciting region of Northern Thailand.

Rejoicing this new endeavor, TAT Los Angeles and STARLUX Airlines organized a cultural occasion on January 16th at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The occasion presented the exclusive customs of Chiang Mai emphasizing TAT’s commitment toward promoting US-Thailand travel.

Commuters on the opening flight from LAX received distinct ‘Elephant Pants’ to represent the generosity that waits for them in Chiang Mai.

Pornpan Intratat, the Director of TAT Los Angeles said that they are pleased to join hands with STARLUX Airlines to deliver continuous flights from the USA non-stop to Chiang Mai’s pulsating environment. 

The post TAT joins with STARLUX Airlines for introducing new flights appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Portugal shines as the 2nd best retirement destination in the 2024 Global Index, favored for its culture, safety, and sunny climate.

Basking under the Mediterranean sun, this European gem recently secured the runner-up spot in the 2024 Annual Retirement Global Index, right behind Costa Rica, with Mexico trailing in third. Portugal’s allure is undeniable, captivating people globally with its sun-kissed beaches, dynamic culture, over 300 days of sunshine a year, low criminal activity, and a hospitable atmosphere.

An increasing number of retirees are joining the affluent expatriate community flocking to Portugal.

The UK’s Portuguese Chamber of Commerce reports a twofold increase in Portugal’s foreign population in the past ten years, surpassing 800,000 newcomers. This influx includes investors and high-skilled professionals, alongside wealthy retirees, contributing to the nation’s economy.

Portugal’s growth is propelled by its attractive residency programs for non-European Union citizens, notably the popular Golden Visa and the D7 Retirement Visa. These programs provide a pathway to a Portuguese passport and access to the Schengen Area for employment and travel.

The Golden Visa demands an investment of EUR 500,000 in qualifying private equity or venture capital funds in Portugal. A more charitable option, the Cultural Production Golden Visa, allows for residency starting from an investment of EUR 200,000 in cultural projects.

These regulated investment visa initiatives under the Golden Visa scheme are also boosting Portugal’s economy and employment. Investment options range from vineyards and tech firms to stock market ventures.

Additionally, these programs allow families to include extended relatives, offering them not only a passport to their original country but also access to 26 countries within the European Schengen area.

In international assessments, Portugal consistently ranks highly for its excellent quality of life, as evidenced in the 2023 Social Progress Index, thanks to factors like affordable healthcare and an emphasis on sustainability.

Portugal also stands out for its significantly lower living costs compared to other European destinations. On average, living expenses are 26.5% less than in the UK, with similar disparities when compared to many other locations in Europe and North America.

Steve Philp, Partnership Director at Portugal Pathways, a platform which is dedicated to assisting individuals in optimising their relocation for investment, tax, or life strategy in Portugal, said: ‘’Affluent expats consistently praise the relaxed pace of life and the perfect balance between bustling cities and charming villages in Portugal.

“There are a host of attractive visa options which can ease the route to residency, and which have proved hugely popular and which we are happy to advise on.

“The Golden Visa may no longer be open for investment in real estate, but there are more and more opportunities to invest through approved funds as well as in cultural projects.

“Many retirees and wealthy expats we have helped, tell us they love the local culture, local produce, wine, the stunning scenery, and a thriving investment market, whether that’s through a Golden Visa or through owning property in a market that’s been consistently outperforming most of the other international markets in recent years.”

From Lisbon’s historic charm to the Algarve’s breathtaking cliffs, Portugal presents a mosaic of visual and cultural experiences. The country is dotted with historic sites, medieval castles, and Roman ruins.

Adapting to life in Portugal tends to be seamless, supported by the Portuguese government’s efficient residency programs for retirees and remote workers. The local community is known for its warm hospitality and friendliness.

Anne Brightman, CEO and Founder of a Boutique Real Estate Agency in Portugal with branches near Lisbon and the Algarve, remarked, “Portugal holds immense appeal for affluent families and investors, be it through property investment or the Golden Visa program. It’s no surprise that Portugal remains a top choice for attracting wealthy retirees and other investors.”

English-speaking expatriates and a significant English-proficient Portuguese population make daily life easier for newcomers.

Moreover, Portugal is attracting not only retirees but also professionals and entrepreneurs, who are investing or relocating via the D2 Entrepreneur Visa or the D8 Digital Nomad Visa.

Portugal Pathways is organizing several webinars in the upcoming months for those interested in investment and relocation opportunities in Portugal.

The post Portugal crowned as 2024’s ultimate retirement paradise appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Portugal shines as the 2nd best retirement destination in the 2024 Global Index, favored for its culture, safety, and sunny climate.

Basking under the Mediterranean sun, this European gem recently secured the runner-up spot in the 2024 Annual Retirement Global Index, right behind Costa Rica, with Mexico trailing in third. Portugal’s allure is undeniable, captivating people globally with its sun-kissed beaches, dynamic culture, over 300 days of sunshine a year, low criminal activity, and a hospitable atmosphere.

An increasing number of retirees are joining the affluent expatriate community flocking to Portugal.

The UK’s Portuguese Chamber of Commerce reports a twofold increase in Portugal’s foreign population in the past ten years, surpassing 800,000 newcomers. This influx includes investors and high-skilled professionals, alongside wealthy retirees, contributing to the nation’s economy.

Portugal’s growth is propelled by its attractive residency programs for non-European Union citizens, notably the popular Golden Visa and the D7 Retirement Visa. These programs provide a pathway to a Portuguese passport and access to the Schengen Area for employment and travel.

The Golden Visa demands an investment of EUR 500,000 in qualifying private equity or venture capital funds in Portugal. A more charitable option, the Cultural Production Golden Visa, allows for residency starting from an investment of EUR 200,000 in cultural projects.

These regulated investment visa initiatives under the Golden Visa scheme are also boosting Portugal’s economy and employment. Investment options range from vineyards and tech firms to stock market ventures.

Additionally, these programs allow families to include extended relatives, offering them not only a passport to their original country but also access to 26 countries within the European Schengen area.

In international assessments, Portugal consistently ranks highly for its excellent quality of life, as evidenced in the 2023 Social Progress Index, thanks to factors like affordable healthcare and an emphasis on sustainability.

Portugal also stands out for its significantly lower living costs compared to other European destinations. On average, living expenses are 26.5% less than in the UK, with similar disparities when compared to many other locations in Europe and North America.

Steve Philp, Partnership Director at Portugal Pathways, a platform which is dedicated to assisting individuals in optimising their relocation for investment, tax, or life strategy in Portugal, said: ‘’Affluent expats consistently praise the relaxed pace of life and the perfect balance between bustling cities and charming villages in Portugal.

“There are a host of attractive visa options which can ease the route to residency, and which have proved hugely popular and which we are happy to advise on.

“The Golden Visa may no longer be open for investment in real estate, but there are more and more opportunities to invest through approved funds as well as in cultural projects.

“Many retirees and wealthy expats we have helped, tell us they love the local culture, local produce, wine, the stunning scenery, and a thriving investment market, whether that’s through a Golden Visa or through owning property in a market that’s been consistently outperforming most of the other international markets in recent years.”

From Lisbon’s historic charm to the Algarve’s breathtaking cliffs, Portugal presents a mosaic of visual and cultural experiences. The country is dotted with historic sites, medieval castles, and Roman ruins.

Adapting to life in Portugal tends to be seamless, supported by the Portuguese government’s efficient residency programs for retirees and remote workers. The local community is known for its warm hospitality and friendliness.

Anne Brightman, CEO and Founder of a Boutique Real Estate Agency in Portugal with branches near Lisbon and the Algarve, remarked, “Portugal holds immense appeal for affluent families and investors, be it through property investment or the Golden Visa program. It’s no surprise that Portugal remains a top choice for attracting wealthy retirees and other investors.”

English-speaking expatriates and a significant English-proficient Portuguese population make daily life easier for newcomers.

Moreover, Portugal is attracting not only retirees but also professionals and entrepreneurs, who are investing or relocating via the D2 Entrepreneur Visa or the D8 Digital Nomad Visa.

Portugal Pathways is organizing several webinars in the upcoming months for those interested in investment and relocation opportunities in Portugal.

The post Portugal crowned as 2024’s ultimate retirement paradise appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Visit Frederick is now accepting applications for the Tourism Reinvestment in Promotion and Product (TRIPP) program, a collaborative initiative providing grants for promotional funding and product development. Non-profit organizations and government agencies are invited to apply for TRIPP funds, aimed at enhancing attractions and fostering tourism development in Frederick County.

In the fiscal year 2025 (FY25), the TRIPP program has undergone expansion, offering increased funding and introducing a new facet that encourages Legacy Projects in preparation for the upcoming national 250th anniversary in 2026. This year, Visit Frederick has earmarked $500,000 through the TRIPP program, marking a substantial 67% rise compared to FY24.

Since its inception in 2006, the TRIPP program has bestowed over $3.9 million in grants. The upcoming grant period is poised to surpass the $4 million milestone, showcasing the program’s significant investment in tourism products and initiatives by non-profit and government entities in Frederick County.

A portion of the hotel tax revenue directed to Visit Frederick will be designated for promoting local non-profit attractions and events, as well as developing tourism products through non-profit initiatives. The TRIPP program utilizes a competitive application process to allocate funds for advertising and development projects. The expanded FY25 TRIPP program has been budgeted at $500,000, covering the period from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.

The FY25 program includes specific allocations, with $200,000 designated for Tourism Advertising Awards, $150,000 for Tourism Development Grants, and another $150,000 for Legacy Development Grants.

The one-time Legacy Development Grants serve as an investment to foster sustainable projects with enduring value linked to the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. Projects that share untold narratives impacting future visitor experiences, focus on workforce development, implement visitor-ready experiences for the U.S. 250th, or address accessibility and language barriers are strongly encouraged to apply.

Expressing enthusiasm, Dave Ziedelis, the Executive Director at Visit Frederick, highlighted the FY25 TRIPP Program’s budgeted funding as a historic peak in the program’s innovative history. He credited this achievement to the success of tourism-related businesses, attractions, events, and endeavors in Frederick County.

Ziedelis emphasized, “We are thrilled to maintain our commitment to supporting the non-profit community and government agencies through this impactful initiative, fostering tourism and providing funds for legacy projects leading up to the United States Semiquincentennial in 2026.”

The program is accessible to Frederick County non-profit organizations and government agencies that align with Visit Frederick’s objectives of increasing visitor numbers, prolonging the average length-of-stay, and enhancing visitor expenditures in Frederick County. Applications will undergo evaluation by a five-member selection committee appointed by the Visit Frederick Board of Directors.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend one of two workshops on Friday, February 9, 2024, at 2:30 pm or Friday, February 16, 2024, at 10:00 am at the Frederick Visitor Center. Completed applications must be submitted electronically to the Frederick Visitor Center by Sunday, March 31, 2024, at 5 pm, and funding awards will be announced in mid-May 2024.

The post Visit Frederick boosts TRIPP grant funding for FY25 appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Visit Frederick is now accepting applications for the Tourism Reinvestment in Promotion and Product (TRIPP) program, a collaborative initiative providing grants for promotional funding and product development. Non-profit organizations and government agencies are invited to apply for TRIPP funds, aimed at enhancing attractions and fostering tourism development in Frederick County.

In the fiscal year 2025 (FY25), the TRIPP program has undergone expansion, offering increased funding and introducing a new facet that encourages Legacy Projects in preparation for the upcoming national 250th anniversary in 2026. This year, Visit Frederick has earmarked $500,000 through the TRIPP program, marking a substantial 67% rise compared to FY24.

Since its inception in 2006, the TRIPP program has bestowed over $3.9 million in grants. The upcoming grant period is poised to surpass the $4 million milestone, showcasing the program’s significant investment in tourism products and initiatives by non-profit and government entities in Frederick County.

A portion of the hotel tax revenue directed to Visit Frederick will be designated for promoting local non-profit attractions and events, as well as developing tourism products through non-profit initiatives. The TRIPP program utilizes a competitive application process to allocate funds for advertising and development projects. The expanded FY25 TRIPP program has been budgeted at $500,000, covering the period from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.

The FY25 program includes specific allocations, with $200,000 designated for Tourism Advertising Awards, $150,000 for Tourism Development Grants, and another $150,000 for Legacy Development Grants.

The one-time Legacy Development Grants serve as an investment to foster sustainable projects with enduring value linked to the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. Projects that share untold narratives impacting future visitor experiences, focus on workforce development, implement visitor-ready experiences for the U.S. 250th, or address accessibility and language barriers are strongly encouraged to apply.

Expressing enthusiasm, Dave Ziedelis, the Executive Director at Visit Frederick, highlighted the FY25 TRIPP Program’s budgeted funding as a historic peak in the program’s innovative history. He credited this achievement to the success of tourism-related businesses, attractions, events, and endeavors in Frederick County.

Ziedelis emphasized, “We are thrilled to maintain our commitment to supporting the non-profit community and government agencies through this impactful initiative, fostering tourism and providing funds for legacy projects leading up to the United States Semiquincentennial in 2026.”

The program is accessible to Frederick County non-profit organizations and government agencies that align with Visit Frederick’s objectives of increasing visitor numbers, prolonging the average length-of-stay, and enhancing visitor expenditures in Frederick County. Applications will undergo evaluation by a five-member selection committee appointed by the Visit Frederick Board of Directors.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend one of two workshops on Friday, February 9, 2024, at 2:30 pm or Friday, February 16, 2024, at 10:00 am at the Frederick Visitor Center. Completed applications must be submitted electronically to the Frederick Visitor Center by Sunday, March 31, 2024, at 5 pm, and funding awards will be announced in mid-May 2024.

The post Visit Frederick boosts TRIPP grant funding for FY25 appeared first on Travel And Tour World.