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Travel Daily News
2 days ago
- Business
- Travel Daily News
Air connectivity at the heart of Europe's growth strategy, says ACI Europe Director General in Athens
Olivier Jankovec of ACI Europe highlights air connectivity's economic and social impact in a press briefing ahead of ACI Europe's 2025 Congress & General Assembly in Athens, Greece. Air connectivity plays a vital role in Europe's economic resilience, social cohesion, and sustainable development, according to Olivier Jankovec, Director General of ACI Europe. Speaking during a dedicated press conference for Greek media on 17 June 2025, ahead of ACI Europe's Annual Congress & General Assembly (18–20 June), Jankovec offered a preview of the key findings and strategic messages that will shape the upcoming deliberations in Athens. Addressing the media at the start of one of the industry's most influential gatherings, Jankovec underscored how air connectivity remains underestimated in regulatory and policy frameworks, despite being a major driver of prosperity across the continent. 'We often overlook the true value of air connectivity,' said Jankovec. 'Yet it is what physically unites Europeans, directly enabling GDP growth, employment, and access to global opportunities.' Air connectivity's economic multiplier effect Jankovec presented highlights from ACI Europe's forthcoming Airport Industry Connectivity Report 2025, a data-driven analysis of direct, indirect, and hub connectivity trends across Europe's airport network. Although passenger traffic has almost fully rebounded from the pandemic, air connectivity remains approximately 9% below 2019 levels. The report quantifies the link between increased air connectivity and economic growth: a 10% rise in direct connectivity translates to a 0.5% increase in GDP per capita and a 1.6% increase in employment—a compelling argument for policymakers to prioritize aviation infrastructure and route development strategies. The broader aviation sector contributes around 5% to Europe's GDP, equating to approximately €551 billion, and supports 6% of the continent's workforce. However, Jankovec warned that these figures could stagnate or decline without concerted efforts to restore and expand air connectivity post-COVID. A bridge to sustainable development Jankovec also shared findings from ACI Europe's joint economic and social impact study with the European Commission, released in Brussels in October 2024. The research demonstrates a significant correlation between air connectivity and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including: Poverty reduction Quality education Gender equality Innovation and research Life satisfaction and wellbeing 'People today are shifting from material to experiential consumption,' Jankovec noted. 'Travel—and by extension, air connectivity—delivers life satisfaction, equity in opportunity, and access to culture and education.' Greece leads Europe in air connectivity recovery While many European countries are still below 2019 air connectivity benchmarks, Greece has emerged as a frontrunner. The country leads ACI Europe's rankings for recovery, with air connectivity now 35% above pre-pandemic levels. This performance is closely tied to Greece's robust tourism rebound and proactive route development strategies. Athens International Airport has played a key role, achieving: +33% growth in total air connectivity compared to 2019 +24% growth in direct connectivity A 92% increase in hub connectivity, one of the strongest in Europe These figures elevate Athens Airport's status from 20th to 10th in direct connectivity and from 22nd to 12th in hub connectivity among European airports. 'This success is the result of strategic engagement,' said Jankovec. 'Airports today must actively market their destinations and compete for airline capacity. It's a constant battle for visibility and investment.' Market trends and future challenges Jankovec also addressed the structural shift in Europe's airline industry. Since the pandemic, low-cost carriers (LCCs) have expanded their presence, whereas full-service carriers (FSCs) have retrenched, with some—like the Lufthansa Group—still operating below 2019 capacity levels. This trend has implications for indirect connectivity, often delivered via FSC hub networks. The decline in hub capacity contributes to the lag in total connectivity recovery, particularly in secondary and regional airports. ACI Europe's report uses KPIs developed by Amsterdam Economics to track four types of connectivity: Direct connectivity Indirect connectivity Hub connectivity Total connectivity (a combination of the above) 'Indirect connectivity is as crucial as direct routes,' added Jankovec. 'A reduction in hub networks limits access to long-haul destinations and weakens the competitiveness of Europe's airports.' Strategic positioning ahead of the future As the ACI Europe Congress begins in Athens, the central message is clear: air connectivity must be treated as a strategic asset for Europe's future. With Greece exemplifying best practices, the industry must collaborate across borders and sectors to ensure that aviation remains a catalyst for progress, not just a facilitator of tourism. ACI Europe is urging regulators, governments, and industry stakeholders to view aviation beyond environmental concerns, acknowledging its integral role in enabling mobility, cohesion, and opportunity across the European continent. Jankovec concluded his briefing by inviting delegates and media to engage with ACI's upcoming reports and discussions during the Congress, which will feature sessions on investment, sustainability, technology, and route development.
Travel Daily News
2 days ago
- Travel Daily News
Botswana voted Africa's Best Safari Country 2025
This year's research analyzed over 3,100 reviews – 1,763 user reviews gathered by between January 1, 2024 and April 9, 2025 and 1,342 reviews written by 26 reputable guidebook authors who work for a variety of publishers including Lonely Planet, Rough Guides, Frommer's, Bradt Guides and Footprint. Despite fierce competition among African nations renowned for offering unique wildlife encounters, Botswana emerged as the clear frontrunner. The country's appeal lies in its dramatic natural contrasts – from the arid expanses of the Kalahari Desert to the lush waterways of the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa's premier wildlife habitats. Botswana's safari experience is deeply rooted in conservation. Its low-impact, high-quality tourism model emphasizes sustainability, which continues to resonate with both first-time and repeat visitors. Notable highlights include opportunities to spot the elusive African wild dog, guided canoe trips through the delta's winding channels, and ancient San rock art sites that add a cultural dimension to nature-based exploration. The comprehensive nature of the survey, combining insights from tourists and seasoned safari experts, reinforces Botswana's standing as a leader in delivering high-caliber, responsible safari experiences on the continent. SafariBookings is the largest online marketplace for specialized safari tours in Africa. More than 1,500 specialized safari operators from around the world offer their safari tours on the SafariBookings platform. Every year more than 4 million people visit to find their perfect safari.
Travel Daily News
7 days ago
- Travel Daily News
Cruising the Amazon in style: Peru's most exclusive river expeditions
Gliding along the headwaters of the Amazon in a boutique river ship feels nothing like traditional cruising. Why the Peruvian Amazon? Northern Peru holds the confluence of the Marañón and Ucayali Rivers, the point that officially becomes the mighty Amazon. This sector is remote yet surprisingly accessible: a 90-minute flight from Lima lands in Iquitos, the world's largest city unreachable by road. From the private port at Nauta, guests board vessels designed to navigate narrow black-water tributaries and shallow lagoons unreachable by larger ships farther downstream in Brazil. For those seeking luxury tours Peru, this region offers an exceptional gateway to the Amazon, combining exclusivity, comfort, and deep immersion into the jungle's rich biodiversity. Floating Suites That Redefine Comfort Top-tier expedition ships resemble waterfront lodges pulled gently by an invisible hand. Aria Amazon and Aqua Nera lead the field, each carrying no more than 40 passengers. Suites measure up to 26 square metres, with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame dawn mist and moonlit riverbanks. King beds dressed in organic Peruvian Pima cotton, rain showers stocked with spa-grade products, and unobtrusive climate control ensure restful nights even during the humid green season. Delfin I raises exclusivity even higher, hosting just eight guests across four suites — two of which feature outdoor plunge pools where pink river dolphins occasionally glide past during afternoon tea. Service and Cuisine on Board Personalised attention begins before departure. Travellers receive a pre-voyage call from the ship's guest relations team to confirm dietary preferences, pillow choices, and special occasions. On board, a near one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio guarantees immediate service, yet staff maintain a quiet presence, so the rainforest soundscape remains undisturbed. Dining rivals top city restaurants. Menus by chefs such as Pedro Miguel Schiaffino elevate regional produce: paiche ceviche dressed with cocona fruit, yucca gnocchi in Brazil-nut pesto, and desserts built around aguaje ice cream. Wine cellars hold South American labels selected to pair with Amazonian flavours, while bartenders craft classics enlivened by jungle botanicals like sacha-citrus and camu-camu. Daily Excursions: Soft Adventure, Expertly Guided Each dawn launches a new programme tailored to river depth and wildlife patterns. Naturalist guides trained at Peru's best research institutes lead sunrise skiff rides beneath palm-fringed canopies where macaws glide overhead. Later in the morning, narrow creek paddles reveal sloths curled into Cecropia branches and scarlet-headed hoatzins flapping awkwardly across floating lilies. Afternoon walks along raised boardwalks trace medicinal plants used by local communities for generations. Because group sizes rarely exceed eight, guides can adjust pace and focus — pausing longer for photographers seeking the perfect anaconda coil or moving quietly past nesting herons to reduce disturbance. Night outings add another dimension: caiman eyes shine like amber beads in torchlight, and a billion stars crowd skies free of urban haze. Sustainability at the Core Operating in a fragile ecosystem requires rigorous stewardship. Leading vessels run on low-emission engines, treat greywater on board, and use advanced hull coatings that minimise drag and fuel use. Laundry services rely on biodegradable detergents, and kitchen teams source fish under strict quotas to protect breeding seasons. Partnerships with NGOs support manatee rescue programmes and fund ranger patrols in Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, helping to curb illegal logging. Guests hear briefings on these initiatives, turning holiday moments into informed support for conservation. Cultural Encounters with Respect The river is lifeline, highway, and pantry for countless Indigenous villages. Expedition itineraries include thoughtfully arranged visits that swap glass-bead souvenirs for genuine exchange. Community leaders demonstrate traditional fishing methods, artisans display basket-weaving using chambira palm fibres, and children perform ceremonial songs learned from elders. All commerce is conducted through a transparent cooperative model ensuring fair prices and ongoing benefit long after the ship sails on. Planning Your Exclusive Voyage Choose the Season Peru's Amazon sees high-water months between December and May, allowing skiffs to venture deeper into flooded forest. Low-water months from June to November reveal sandy river beaches and enable longer jungle walks. Wildlife viewing thrives year-round, though avid birders often favour the high-water period when migratory species arrive. Select the Right Vessel Couples seeking maximum seclusion gravitate toward Delfin I or the two-suite Zafiro Master Cabin, while multigenerational families appreciate Aqua Nera's connecting suites and plunge-pool sundeck. Review deck plans carefully: corner cabins often supply wraparound glazing for 90-degree panoramas. Book Early With capacity under 50 guests per ship, departures fill quickly — particularly holiday weeks and the July–August dry season. Six to nine months' lead time secures preferred sailings and allows for custom pre-cruise extensions such as Lima gourmet tours or Machu Picchu by luxury train. A Journey Beyond Ordinary An Amazon cruise through Peru offers refined comfort amid one of Earth's great wilderness regions. Floating spas administer massages scented with andiroba oil while the river drifts by, cocktail hours unfold on observation decks painted by sunset, and every dawn carries the potential for a first-ever wildlife sighting. For travellers seeking an experience defined by exclusivity, authenticity, and environmental care — all shaped by the hands of seasoned professionals — luxury tours Peru delivers the definitive answer. Photo by bilal findikci from Pexels
Travel Daily News
7 days ago
- Business
- Travel Daily News
USTOA brings member delegates to the capitol
NEW YORK – The United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) escorted a group of more than 50 Active Member tour operators and Associate Members to Washington, D.C., June 3-4, 2025, to advocate for tourism industry issues impacting the industry, from passport and visa processing to adequate funding of Brand USA and the National Park Service , among other urgent topics. 'In the 13th year of the USTOA Congressional Caucus, our advocacy efforts felt more important than ever,' said USTOA President & CEO Terry Dale . 'The Congressional Caucus is a vitally critical forum to engage directly with lawmakers on topics that will ensure the continued success and resilience of our industry and lead us toward a more responsible tourism future.' The morning of June 4 was packed with informative presentations on the 'state of the industry' from a number of industry representatives, including Fred Dixon, president and CEO of Brand USA; Jennifer Aguinaga, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism and Director, National Travel and Tourism Office; and Emily Douce, Deputy Vice President of Government Affairs for the National Parks Conservation Association. Guest speakers included Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the Presidential Task Force for 2026 FIFA World Cup, who spoke about initiatives to improve visa wait times and approval as the US is set to host this international event, and US Representative Tom Suozzi (D-NY), who provided insights into the top issues facing Congress. A small team of USTOA members met at the office of Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19). In the afternoon, nine teams of USTOA members visited the Capitol for meetings with leading members of Congress to discuss the core issues. Promoting U.S. tourism abroad with continued funding of Brand USA, urging Congress to fund the administration's Air Traffic Control modernization plan, the impact of tariffs on international and outbound U.S. travel, supporting National Park Service funding and sufficient staffing, encouraging improvement in passport application processing delays, and urging expedited visa processing and backlog reduction are among the topics discussed. Additional conversation included the INVEST in our Communities Act which aims to boost much-needed tourism and economic development in light of the recent drop off in Canadian travel to the US; supporting the DOT-Aviation Consumer Protection; and supporting travel infrastructure including the backing expansion of TSA Pre-check and Global Entry as well as phased enforcement and flexibility for REAL ID until full compliance on May 7, 2027. Dale continued, 'USTOA remains committed to being an advocate for responsible tourism, and these meetings proved to be a highly effective platform to communicate that message to key lawmakers. We have learned that our collective voice does matter and can make a difference. The participation of our members and the members of Congress who took the time to engage in discussions on the issues that matter most to our industry is deeply appreciated.' The Caucus kicked off with an opening night reception and dinner at the Colombian Ambassador 's residence, hosted by Daniel Ávila Camacho, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of Colombia to the United States. Special guest Charlie Sykes, regular contributor to MSNBC and former editor-in-chief of The Bulwark, addressed the group about the importance to stay engaged in politics, among other timely topics.
Travel Daily News
7 days ago
- Travel Daily News
Wilderness Usawa Serengeti adds new camp sites
Wilderness Usawa Serengeti expands with new mobile camps in Grumeti and Lamai, enhancing guest access to the Great Migration experience. Wilderness Usawa Serengeti announce the expansion of its acclaimed luxury mobile tented camp operations, strategically situated to align with the movement of the Great Migration across the Serengeti. As peak safari season approaches, Usawa – Kiswahili for 'balance' – will introduce two new locations to its mobile circuit: Grumeti in the Western Corridor and Lamai in the Northern Hills. These additions further reflect Wilderness' commitment to providing guests access to the Great Migration and enhancing their chances of witnessing one of Africa's most awe-inspiring wildlife spectacles. Since July 2023, Wilderness Tanzania has focused on placing its camps in proximity to the migratory herds across the Serengeti, offering exceptional flexibility by setting up in areas that have historically hosted large wildlife concentrations during specific seasons. As part of its 2025 expansion, the tented camps will be positioned in two new locations – Grumeti and Lamai – selected through a careful study of animal movements, seasonal conditions, and long-term migration trends. These placements are intended to improve the likelihood of guests being close to the migration while preserving the hallmark adaptability of the Usawa experience. Grumeti, set in the Western Corridor, is characterised by the meandering Grumeti River and a mosaic of woodlands, riverine forests and plains. This area plays a crucial role as a gathering point for the million-strong herd between May and July, with a year-round presence of wildebeest and dramatic predator-prey interactions. Lamai, situated north of the Mara River, remains one of the Serengeti's most untouched regions. From mid-July, vast herds typically pass through during the rutting season, while the escarpment's streams provide shelter for lion prides and leopards. With fewer camps than the well-known Kogatende area, Lamai offers a more secluded migration experience, far from the crowds. 'While we can obviously take guests to the renowned river crossings, the Great Migration is much more than this singular spectacle. The Ndabaka Plains, located north of the Grumeti River in the Western Corridor, are a significant gathering point between May and July, with large herds frequently moving through the area. Unlike other regions of the Serengeti, the Western Corridor supports a resident wildebeest population, ensuring consistent wildlife activity throughout the year. This area is also home to thriving lion populations, elephant herds and other iconic species, making it an excellent safari destination even outside of peak migration months', said Jean du Plessis, Wilderness Tanzania Managing Director. Though wildlife activity intensifies during the migration season, the Grumeti and Lamai areas remain remarkably unspoiled and serene year-round. With very few seasonal camps and low tourist traffic, guests can experience the raw beauty and stillness of the Serengeti in a truly immersive way. 'Just like the herd, we adapt. This flexibility ensures our guests are well positioned to enjoy extraordinary wildlife moments – whether it's the thunderous river crossings of the Western Corridor or the tranquil remoteness of Lamai. It's a rare balance of raw wilderness and refined comfort. True to our guiding ethos, our camps are entirely mobile, leaving no permanent trace on the land. With a minimal footprint, fully solar-powered infrastructure, Wi-Fi and continuous hot water, the camp offers a sophisticated soul safari in the heart of the wild', continued Jean. With the addition of these new locations, Wilderness Usawa reinforces its commitment to delivering exceptional safari experiences that bring guests as close as possible to the magic of the migration – wherever and whenever nature allows.
