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World Tourism Day: Celebrating the Billion Opportunities Brought About by the Tourism Sector
In this regard, the UN Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon states in his message on the occasion of World Tourism Day “let us work together to maximize the immense potential of tourism to drive inclusive economic growth, protect the environment and promote sustainable development and a life of dignity for all.”
With five consecutive years of growth, tourism has been a major contributor to the economic recovery, creating jobs and opportunities for communities in many parts of the world. With an increase of 4% in international tourist arrivals in the first semester of 2015, the sector follows an increasing trend that is estimated to reach 1.8 billion international tourists by the year 2030.
“Every time we travel we are part of a global movement that has the power to drive inclusive development, to create jobs and to build the sustainable societies we want for our future,” said UNWTO Secretary General, Taleb Rifai in his World Tourism Day message. “This movement also contributes to build mutual understanding and to safeguard our shared natural and cultural heritage,” he added.
Protecting cultural and natural heritage
A transformative force, tourism brings livelihood opportunities and helps alleviate poverty, making a genuine difference in the lives of millions of people. At present, international tourism contributes $US 1.5 billion to global trade representing 30% of the world´s service exports, a share that goes up to 45% in Least Developed Countries (LDCs). Tourism also plays a key role in fostering multicultural understanding and contributing to the preservation of cultural and natural heritage.
This linkage is particularly relevant as the international community prepares to adopt the post-2015 agenda with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) where tourism has been identified as a sector that “creates jobs and promotes local culture and products”.
World Tourism Day is celebrated on 27 September since 1980. This date coincides with the anniversary of the adoption of the UNWTO Statutes on 27 September 1970.
As part of this year’s World Tourism Day celebrations, UNWTO invites all join its Instagram Campaign, by sharing images of the transformative potential tourism can hold.
Love
Maldives among top choices for babymoon romance
Maldives has soared into the top 5 most popular babymoon destinations according to a new study by My 1st Years.
Babymoons, pre-baby getaways for expecting parents, have seen a surge in popularity in recent years. The UK alone has witnessed a staggering 128% increase in searches for “best babymoon destinations” in just the past three months.
To understand expectant parents’ travel dreams, My 1st Years analyzed Google search data for hundreds of destinations worldwide. The Maldives secured the coveted fourth place, surpassing Italy, Australia, and Portugal.
This tropical paradise offers the perfect escape for parents-to-be seeking relaxation and rejuvenation before welcoming their new arrival. Imagine soaking up the sun on pristine beaches, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or indulging in pampering spa treatments – pure bliss!
For expectant couples seeking a luxurious and unforgettable babymoon experience, the Maldives offers a truly idyllic setting.
News
Maldives tourism poised for strong growth in 2024, with 2 million visitors expected
Maldives is setting its sights on welcoming a record-breaking 2.01 million tourists in 2024, a 7.9% increase compared to anticipated arrivals this year. This optimistic forecast, released by the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO), paints a vibrant picture of tourism industry thriving next year.
Several key factors are driving this projected surge:
- The Resurgent Chinese Market: With borders reopening and travel restrictions easing, Chinese tourists are expected to flock back to the Maldives in droves, injecting significant energy into the sector.
- New Tourist Delights: The Maldives is steadily expanding its offerings, with new resorts, attractions, and experiences emerging to cater to a wider range of visitors.
- Smoother Skies Ahead: The completion of the Velana International Airport’s new terminal will boost capacity, making it easier for more tourists to reach the paradise islands.
- Luxury’s Enduring Allure: The Maldives’ reputation as a premier luxury destination remains undimmed, attracting high-spending travelers seeking unforgettable experiences.
- Weddings and Honeymoons in Paradise: The Maldives’ romantic charm is drawing ever-increasing numbers of couples seeking picture-perfect wedding and honeymoon destinations.
Looking geographically, Asia is expected to dominate the tourist influx, accounting for 60% of arrivals. Europe, America, and other regions are also projected to contribute significantly, highlighting the Maldives’ diverse appeal.
MATATO’s forecast is based on a meticulous analysis of data from various sources, including past tourism trends, industry forecasts, consumer sentiment surveys, and even cutting-edge AI technology.
MATATO acknowledges potential risks that could affect the rosy outlook. A global economic downturn, rising travel costs, and political instability are factors to be monitored closely.
With its stunning natural beauty, luxurious offerings, and strategic initiatives, the islands are poised to welcome a record number of visitors, reaffirming its status as a dream destination for discerning travelers.
News
Maldives ranks 4th among world’s most popular “old money” destinations
The Maldives has secured its place among the most sought-after “old money” destinations in the world, ranking an impressive fourth in a recent analysis conducted by SlotTracker.com. With over 12 million Instagram hashtags (12,777,931), the Maldives has emerged as a paradise for those seeking a luxurious and refined getaway.
Renowned for its exclusive resorts, pristine beaches, and private water villas, the Maldives offers an ideal setting for indulging in opulence and tranquillity. The timeless natural beauty of the archipelago, coupled with high-end accommodations and a variety of water-based activities, further adds to its allure, attracting discerning travelers in search of sophistication.
The concept of “old money” or “quiet luxury” has gained significant attention in recent times, with TikTok’s latest trend garnering over 2.5 billion views for the hashtag #oldmoneyaesthetic. This trend embodies a sense of understated elegance, free from overt displays of wealth, and draws inspiration from the refined style of celebrities like Sophia Richie and the hit TV show “Succession.”
Driven by curiosity about this trend, SlotTracker.com conducted a thorough analysis of more than 400 million Instagram hashtags to identify the destinations that epitomize refinement and elegance. From enchanting European cities to exotic havens in the Caribbean, their findings unveiled the most popular “old money” destinations worldwide, captivating travelers with unparalleled experiences of luxury and exclusivity.
The Maldives’ fourth-place ranking showcases the destination’s enduring appeal and its ability to deliver a quintessential “old money” experience. The abundance of Instagram hashtags dedicated to the Maldives indicates its popularity among influencers and travelers seeking to showcase their elegant retreats and experiences in this tropical paradise.
With its breathtaking turquoise waters, pristine white sand beaches, and idyllic private villas perched above the ocean, the Maldives offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The luxurious resorts scattered across the archipelago cater to the most discerning guests, providing personalized services, gourmet dining, and world-class amenities.
Whether it’s indulging in a rejuvenating spa treatment, embarking on a romantic sunset cruise, or exploring the vibrant marine life through snorkeling or diving, the Maldives offers a range of activities that complement the serenity and sophistication of the destination.
As the Maldives continues to attract global attention as a premier “old money” destination, the local tourism industry is poised to benefit from the discerning travelers seeking luxurious experiences. The Maldivian government and tourism authorities can leverage this recognition to further enhance the destination’s offerings, promoting sustainable luxury tourism that preserves the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the islands.
The fourth-place ranking among the world’s most popular “old money” destinations reinforces the Maldives’ position as a leading luxury travel hotspot. Travelers from around the globe are enticed by the Maldives’ timeless charm, and the destination’s commitment to providing an extraordinary blend of tranquillity, sophistication, and exclusivity continues to set it apart in the world of luxury travel.
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