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Plaza Premium Group opens its first-ever European lounge in Rome
Airport hospitality experience provider Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has opened its first Plaza Premium First Lounge in Europe. Located in Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Rome Fiumicino Airport, this new lounge marks a major milestone in the Group’s European expansion. Likewise, it introduces PPG’s elevated lounge brand Plaza Premium First into the region, bringing its signature seamless travel experience to one of the world’s most iconic cities. PPG founder and chief executive Song Hoi See said of the new facility: “Rome represents both a gateway to Europe and a cultural capital. This launch reinforces our mission to deliver excellence in airport hospitality through design, service innovation, and cultural authenticity. As today’s travel landscape continually evolves, we remain attuned to the changing expectations of frequent travellers, who now seek greater personalization and refinement at every stage of their journey. The continued success of our award-winning Plaza Premium Lounge in Rome reflects the demand for exceptional hospitality, and introducing Plaza Premium First at Rome Fiumicino Airport further strengthens our shared vision of creating experiences that goes beyond comfort where thoughtful design, service innovation, and a genuine sense of place come together seamlessly, a proud reflection of our ethos: to make travel better for all.” Aeroporti di Roma CEO Marco Troncone added: “The opening of the new Plaza Premium First Lounge in Europe at our airport reflects Aeroporti di Roma’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the passenger experience, as recognised by our 5-Star Skytrax rating. Hosting the debut of this premium concept in Europe confirms Fiumicino’s role as a gateway capable of attracting leading global operators. It also strengthens Rome’s positioning as a strategic hub in the global travel network, where service excellence, comfort and local identity come together to offer a high-quality and increasingly personalised airport experience.” Bringing the ultimate in pre-flight comfort to the heart of Europe Located in Terminal 1, International Departures, the 700-square-metre lounge is designed to accommodate 115 guests. The new elevated lounge concept represents a transformative evolution in PPG’s mission to redefine travel and provide discerning travellers with the ultimate blend of personalized hospitality, bespoke dining offerings, curated cocktails, wines and spirits, luxurious spaces and immersive cultural experiences. At the heart of the new Plaza Premium First Rome is a commitment to setting new and exceptional standards in airport hospitality featuring indulgent amenities and uniquely Roman signature highlights designed for discerning travellers. The design concept takes its cue from La Dolce Vita, the iconic Italian phrase that translates as “the sweet life” encapsulating a lifestyle characterised by pleasure, indulgence and the art of living well while maintaining the global design language of Plaza Premium Group. The interiors integrate light, texture, and form to create spaces that feel both luxurious and comfortable, capturing the timeless elegance of Roman style through a harmony of natural light, warm hues, and handcrafted textures. Classical proportions anchor the space, while travertine stone, oak wood, and bronze accents pay tribute to local artistry and sustainable design. Artwork and decorative elements feature curated photography and abstract pieces linked to Italian craftsmanship and travel culture. Every element from the biophilic touches to the energy-efficient lighting has been thoughtfully composed to foster well-being and reflect Plaza Premium Group’s dedication to human centric design and hospitality.
Nightclub ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ in Goa Sealed After fire claimed 25 lives
Officials inspect the charred remains of the nightclub after a fire broke out in a nightclub North Goa's Arpora | PTI A jampacked nightclub in North Goa turned into a death trap after midnight on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday as a massive fire tore through it, claiming 25 lives and leaving six injured while raising serious questions about `illegal' operations and flouting of safety norms. While the police said earlier in the day that a cylinder blast seemed to have started the blaze, a tourist who survived the tragedy claimed that fireworks were set off when dancers were performing, and it was the likely cause. The police confirmed that among the 25 dead, 14 bodies have been identified, which included 4 tourists from New Delhi, and 10 members of staff originally from Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh. The six others, who were injured in the tragedy, have been hospitalised and are said to be stable. Addressing the media on Sunday, Sawant said a magisterial inquiry has been ordered into the tragedy. "A probe committee comprising the South Goa collector, the deputy director of fire and emergency services and the director of forensic laboratory has been formed. The panel will submit its report within a week," the chief minister said. He added that the committee will probe procedural lapses that resulted in the mishap.
Aeromexico remains the most punctual airline globally in Oct 2025: Cirium
Cirium defines an on-time flight as one that arrives at its destination airport within 15 minutes of its scheduled arrival time. For the Global Airlines category, only the top 10% of all passenger airlines by capacity are included, with each airline being required to serve at least three regions. The second spot was taken by Saudia, securing an 89.70% punctuality score, followed by Azul with 88.45% . Qatar Airways and WestJet took the fourth and fifth spots with 87.47% and 84.66% of flights on-time respectively. For the European Airlines category, only the top 30% of all passenger airlines by capacity are included. Europe: SAS was crowned the most on-time airline in Europe last month, with 84.43% of flights arriving on-time. Finnair was in second position, with 84.28% of all flights arriving on-time. Iberia, Norwegian and Volotea also made the top five, offering customers punctual service on over 82% of flights. No UK airline was featured in the top ten. Cancellations: Flight cancellations across Europe decreased in October by 12.47%, with 6,143 cancelled flights compared to 7,018 in September.
Salalah Airport Welcomes Inaugural Flight of Neos from Rome
Salalah Airport has welcomed the inaugural scheduled flight of the Italian airline "Neos," arriving from Rome via Milan. This marks the launch of a direct, regular air route between the two destinations, with one flight per week during the 2025-2026 winter tourism season. This step reinforces the Sultanate of Oman's position as a distinguished destination on the global tourism map. The new route is a qualitative addition to the network of international destinations served by Salalah Airport. As informed by a news report from the Oman News Agency. Oman Airports confirmed that the launch of this direct route is part of joint national efforts to enhance Oman's air connectivity with various global markets and expand the international flight network. This supports the tourism and national economy sectors and contributes to attracting more visitors to the Dhofar Governorate during the winter season, which sees increasing demand from European tourists. This direct route is expected to boost the local economy and enhance the tourism sector in the Dhofar Governorate, opening new horizons for tourism and investment cooperation between the Sultanate of Oman and the Republic of Italy. Haitham Mohammed Al Ghassani, Director General of Tourism Promotion at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, explained that this step is the result of joint cooperation between the Ministry, Oman Airports, and a number of relevant authorities. This collaboration, he said, has culminated in strategic partnerships with international airlines such as Switzerland's "Edelweiss" and Italy's "Neos." He indicated that work is underway to attract more airlines to strengthen the position of Dhofar Governorate as an integrated tourist destination. He added that the opening of this direct route from Milan to Salalah reflects the extensive efforts to increase the number of direct international flights to the governorate. This responds to the growing demand from the European market, particularly the Italian market, to visit Dhofar during the winter season, thanks to its moderate climate, stunning nature, and unique cultural and heritage experiences. He pointed out that the Italian market witnessed a 48% growth in the number of tourists arriving in the Sultanate of Oman during the first half of this year compared to the same period last year, reflecting the increasing interest in this distinguished tourist destination. Neos Airline is one of the Italian airlines belonging to the Alpitour Group. Founded in 2002, it has since become one of the leading airlines for tourist destinations worldwide, operating flights to more than 60 destinations and 183 global airports from its four hubs in Milan, Verona, Rome and Bologna.
38% of long-haul travellers plan to visit Europe this autumn states the ‘Long-Haul Travel Barometer’
Representative Image The latest edition of the Long-Haul Travel Barometer (3/2025), published by the European Travel Commission (ETC) and Eurail BV, shows that overall long-haul travel demand for September to December 2025 has declined compared to last year, with 55% of respondents planning an overseas trip, down 4%. The share of travellers unwilling to travel longer distances has risen particularly in China, Brazil and Canada, signaling a growing sense of caution. Within this picture, intentions to visit Europe remain steady, underlining the region’s resilience in a challenging global environment. Europe’s standing is reinforced by its reputation as the world’s safest destination, a factor that continues to shape traveller choices. At the same time, long-haul travel to Europe shows diverging patterns across markets, with growing demand in the US and South Korea, mild shifts in Brazil and Australia, a slowdown in China and Canada, and modest gains in Japan. Mixed sentiment across markets Overall, 38% of respondents across top overseas travel markets intend to travel to Europe in the next months, unchanged compared to 2024. Behind this headline figure, differences emerge: China remains the strongest market, with 69% planning a European trip, though down from 83% last year. Europe is still a priority, but short-haul travel is gaining ground as economic caution shapes spending choices. Brazil continues to rank high at 46%, down 2% year-on-year. High costs weigh heavily, but travel remains a strong priority for many Brazilians, who are still willing to allocate budgets to experiences abroad. Australia edges up to 37%, from 33% last year, reflecting steady demand despite cost concerns. Canada slips to 35%, from 39% in 2024, with more travellers cautious about long-haul trips amid the current political and economic climate. The US (29%) and South Korea (33%) both report notable increases from last year (23% and 27% respectively). In both markets, interest is strengthening despite wider geopolitical uncertainty, with Europe’s image of stability supporting demand. Japan remains lowest at 20%, up from 17% in 2024. Concerns about Europe’s political climate and personal safety continue to weigh on sentiment, but the modest improvement points to a slow recovery. Safety as a competitive advantage The research confirms that Europe is seen as the safest region worldwide, ahead of other global regions across measures of political stability, personal security, natural hazards, relations with locals and risks of conflict or terrorism. Safety remains the most important factor for travellers when choosing a destination, followed by must-see attractions and tourism infrastructure. Cost pressures continue Affordability continues to be the top obstacle for overseas travel to Europe, cited by 42% of respondents. Younger travellers in particular highlight costs as a barrier (61%), reinforcing the need for competitive and flexible offers. Spending expectations also reflect tighter budgets, with most visitors planning to spend between €100 and €200 per person per day, and fewer prepared to exceed €200 compared to 2024. This shift is particularly marked among Chinese and Brazilian travellers, where the share expecting to spend more than €200 fell sharply: from 38% to 25% in China and from 45% to 38% in Brazil. Nordic growth and multi-country trips Overseas travellers remain most eager to explore Europe’s enduring favourites – France (38%), Italy (31%), the UK (26%), Germany (25%) and Spain (24%). Yet interest is expanding northward, with the Nordics gaining remarkable momentum. Norway has seen interest rise from 9% in 2024 to 12% in 2025, followed by Finland (7% to 10%) and Iceland (5% to 8%). These gains reflect the growing interest in the region, particularly during the Northern Lights season. The barometer also confirms the popularity of multi-country itineraries, with 73% of travellers planning to visit more than one country during their European trip. Chinese respondents stand out, intending to visit an average of 5.5 destinations compared with 3.8 in 2024. Among travellers staying within a single country, more are turning to trains (38%) and cars (32%) this autumn, both of which have grown in popularity since last year. In contrast, the use of full-service flights has fallen sharply (-18%). The trend is most evident among Chinese visitors, reflecting a shift towards greater flexibility and more sustainable ways of travelling within a destination. In response to the findings, Miguel Sanz, President of the European Travel Commission, noted: Safety and stability remain Europe’s strongest advantages in an uncertain world. At the same time, this research reminds us that affordability must be addressed if we are to keep Europe accessible to younger generations. The growing appeal of destinations such as the Nordics shows how we can diversify demand and spread tourism more evenly. By acting together, European destinations can ensure that Europe continues to be a secure, attractive and sustainable destination for travellers from around the globe.
2025 WTTC Global Summit opens in Rome
All eyes are on Rome as the curtain formally rose on the 2025 World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit on Sunday, 28th September. The most important global event for the travel and tourism sectors formally opened with a press conference at the Auditorium Parco della Musica. Among those at the conference were interim WTTC chief executive Gloria Guevara, WTTC chair Greg O’Hara, and WTTC chair-elect Manfredi Lefebvre. Also in attendance were Italy’s minister of tourism Daniela Santanchè, President of the Lazio Region Francesco Rocca, and Roberto Gualtieri, the mayor of Rome. Reflecting an industry’s growth Guevara declared at the conference: “As we welcome the WTTC Global Summit to Rome today, Italy is not only showcasing a thriving Travel & Tourism sector, set to contribute more than €237BN to the economy this year, it’s also demonstrating true global leadership. From hosting the historic G7 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting last year to welcoming the world again this week, Italy is setting the benchmark for how tourism can power economies, create jobs, and inspire global collaboration.” Italy’s Santanchè added: “We are proud to host the WTTC summit in Italy for the first timeL a sign of our country’s renewed centrality, thanks to the work of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who has restored strength, stability, and security to Italy. These are essential factors that enhance our credibility on the international stage, allowing Italy to once again play a leading role globally. Italy is not only one of the most fascinating and sought-after tourist destinations in the world, holding the European record for conference tourism and leading the outdoor hospitality sector. but it also stands as a crucial hub of opportunity for the growth of the industry.” The Italian tourism minister added that the summit serves as a highly strategic showcase, with the primary goal of attracting investment and highlighting the immense potential of the country’s cultural, culinary, and landscape heritage. For his part, O’Hara remarked: “This Summit brings together the very best of our sector at a pivotal moment for global Travel & Tourism. Here in Rome, against the backdrop of Italy’s extraordinary growth story, we are reminded of the power of our industry to unite people, drive investment, and create opportunity on a scale few others can match. The conversations we will have over the coming days will help chart the course for a sector that is not only breaking records but shaping a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.” Opening doors by opening conversations It is expected that this year’s Global Summit will foster constructive dialogue among key players in the sector, an essential element for implementing effective policies and supporting the competitiveness and growth of tourism on a global scale. Across the next three days, more than one thousand delegates, including 310 CEOs and chairs, will explore the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of Travel & Tourism. This year’s Summit programme will include sessions focusing on bolstering economic growth and job creation, to the power of artificial intelligence and seamless travel. The event will also shine a light on investment opportunities in Italy, and trends such as wellness and sport tourism, luxury rail travel, and the benefits of hosting global mega events. WTTC will also be launching its latest new reports including Future of the Travel & Tourism Workforce, which highlights how governments, businesses, and educators can work together to prepare for the future, and its 2025 Environmental & Impact Research. The Summit will feature an extraordinary line-up of speakers, including Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who will deliver the keynote at tomorrow’s opening ceremony.
WTTC Announces Final Speaker Line-Up for Landmark 25th Global Summit in Rome
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) today announced its full line-up of renowned speakers set to join its Global Summit in Rome, with the opening ceremony featuring a special performance from Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli. The global tourism body’s 25th Global Summit will take place from 28–30 September 2025 and hosted in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT, the Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region. Legendary Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, whose career has spanned more than 30 years and has made him one of the world’s most celebrated voices, will bring his extraordinary artistry to this landmark event during the opening ceremony. Guided by the theme La Grande Bellezza (del Viaggio), The Great Beauty (of Travel), leaders from the public and private sectors will convene at the Auditorium Parco della Musica to forge a path forward for a sector that has proven its strength in creating jobs, strengthening economies, and fostering connections between diverse cultures. Delegates from around the world will join more than 310 CEOs and Chairs, and 15 Directors, in sessions focusing on bolstering economic growth and job creation, to the power of Artificial intelligence and seamless travel. Confirmed speakers include: Certares, Founder & Senior Managing Director, Greg O’Hara Heritage Group/Abercrombie and Kent Travel Group, Chairman, Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio IC Bellagio, CEO – Sole Founder, Andrea Grisdale Capital A Berhad, CEO, Anthony Francis Fernandes American Express Travel, President, Audrey Hendley The Bicester Collection, Chair & Chief Merchant, Desirée Bollier TBO.com, Co-Founder, Gaurav Bhatnagar Iberostar, Vice-Chairman & CSO, Gloria Fluxà Trip.com Group, CEO, Jane Sun Zurich Cover-More Global Travel, Inc., President & CEO, Jeffrey C Rutledge Diriyah Company, Group CEO, Jerry Inzerillo Virtuoso, Founder & CEO, Matthew Upchurch Arsenale Spa, CEO, Paolo Barletta MSC Group, Executive Chairman, Pierfrancesco Vago Minor Hotel Group, Founder & Chairman, William E. Heinecke Marriott International, President & CEO, Anthony Capuano Visit California, President & CEO, Caroline Beteta InterContinental Hotels Group, Global CEO, Elie Maalouf Royal Caribbean Cruises LTD, President & CEO, Jason Liberty Technogym, Founder & CEO, Nerio Alessandri Dubai Airports International, CEO, Paul Griffiths Accor, CEO, Sébastien Bazin Harry’s Bar, Founder, Arrigo Cipriani Andrea Bocelli Foundation, President & CEO, Laura Biancalani Italo S.p.A, Chairman, Luca Cordero di Montezemolo Radisson Hotel Group, CEO, Federico Gonzalez Aeroporti di Roma, CEO, Marco Troncone Enel S.p.A., Head of Global Sponsorships and Events, Valeria Falcone Amadeus, President: Travel, Decius Valmorbida Menezes Salvatore Ferragamo Group, Executive Chairman, Leonardo Ferragamo Hong Kong and Shanghai Hotels, CEO, Benjamin Vuchot ENIT S.p.A., CEO, Ivana Jelinic Terme & Spa Italia, President & Owner, Massimo Caputi Vietnam Luxury Express, Co-Founder, Business Development Manager, Thang Phan Golden Eagle Luxury Trains President & Founder, Tim Littler Rocky Mountaineer, CEO, Tristan Armstrong Trenitalia, CEO, Giampiero Strisciuglio Starhotels Group, President & CEO, Elisabetta Fabri Alpemare Beach Club, General Manager, Fabio Giannotti Microsoft, Global Managing Director - Travel, Transport & Hospitality Industry, Julie Shainock Bain & Company, Partner, Andrea Alori AI Commission for Information, President, Paolo Benanti Viking Cruises, Founder & CEO, Torstein Hagen Roman Catholic Church, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelisation, Archbishop Mons. Rino Fisichella Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026, President, Giovanni Malago International Olympic Committee, Member, Anant Singh TURESPANA, Director General, Miguel Sanz Play Qiddiya City DMMO, Director General, Ross McAuley Tourism Western Australia, Chair, Di Bain Fincantieri, CEO, Pierroberto Folgiero OMRAN Group, CEO, Hashil Al Mahrouqi Alpitour World, CEO, Gabriele Burgio INVITALIA, CEO, Bernardo Mattarella Difesa Servizi S.p.A., CEO, Luca Andreoli Wilderness Destinations, CEO, Keith Vincent ensō Group, Executive Chairman, Hunter Lee Soik Estense Gallery, Director & Writer, Alessandra Necci MMGY Global, CEO, Katie Briscoe Indian Hotels Company, CEO, Puneet Chhatwal Ant International, President, Douglas Feagin Vantage Asset Management, President of the Board, Massimo Ponzellini Michelin-starred Chef, Antonino Cannavacciuolo Italy's Minister of Tourism, Daniela Santanchè, who will also be addressing delegates at this year's Global Summit, added: “We are proud to host the WTTC Global Summit, an event that highlights the enormous potential of Italian tourism and also stands as a unique opportunity to attract investments to our country. The meeting with international leaders and investors will allow us to discuss and implement fundamental policies to chart a course that makes our tourism industry more competitive in the global market. We must make Italy the reference nation for international tourism, uniting history and vision, tradition and innovation. “Italy, with its wealth of history and culture and its propensity for innovation, is in the ideal position to lead the transformation of a development model that harmoniously integrates economic growth with the protection of our cultural and environmental heritage. Among other things, this event comes at a historic moment when it is increasingly urgent to talk about peace. Tourism is the best possible tool to foster exchange and dialogue, as it breaks down barriers and strengthens interpersonal relationships, encouraging the connection between different languages and cultures”. Gloria Guevara, Interim CEO of WTTC, said: “As we gather in Rome for this Global Summit, Travel & Tourism stands at the centre of the global economy. The leaders joining us bring unmatched expertise and vision, and together we will explore how our sector can unlock new opportunities, and foster innovation. “This Summit is about looking ahead with confidence and ambition, ensuring that Travel & Tourism continues to be one of the most dynamic forces for progress worldwide. Andrea Bocelli’s performance will be the perfect start to an unforgettable Global Summit.” Ivana Jelinic, CEO of ENIT S.p.A., said: “Tourism is undergoing a transformation to keep up with new global challenges. Sustainability and digitalisation are two new cornerstones of the sector, especially for the younger generations. “We are constantly seeing how young people are willing to spend even more on their holidays as long as the facilities comply with ESG values. Italy is responding well to these trends and continues to promote its excellence around the world. Villaggio Italia is a great example, it showcases the beauty and uniqueness of our country around the world at major events”. The Global Summit will set the tone for dynamic debates and showcase the breadth and influence of Travel & Tourism as a driver of global growth and connection. With speakers and delegates representing more than 65 countries, the 25th WTTC Global Summit will once again demonstrate its unrivalled role as the most influential gathering in Travel & Tourism, where global leadership converges to define priorities and drive the sector forward. The event is hosted in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT (the Italian national tourist board), the Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region. Other WTTC Partners include Antonio Lefebvre d’Ovidio Di Bolsonaro Philantrophy, Arsenale Spa, Chase Travel (JPMC), Giacomo Milano, MMGY, MSC Group, Terme di Saturnia, and Trip.com Group.
US Dept of Transportation issues final order to terminate the Delta-Aeromexico JV
Delta Air Lines issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Transportation issued a final order on 15 September to dismantle the Delta-Aeromexico joint cooperation agreement effective 1 Jan, 2026. “We are disappointed that the Department of Transportation has chosen to terminate its approval of the strategic and pro-competitive partnership between Delta and Aeromexico, a decision that will cause significant harm to U.S. jobs, communities and consumers traveling between the U.S. and Mexico. We are reviewing the Department’s order and considering next steps.” All flights will continue to operate as normal, unless otherwise contacted by Delta.
WTTC Unveils First Wave of Speakers for its 25th Global Summit in Rome
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed the first wave of headline speakers for its milestone 25th Global Summit in Rome, which includes a glittering line-up of some of the most influential figures shaping the future of the sector. From the 28 - 30 September, the Eternal City will play host to a gathering of global business leaders from across business, government, and media, as the Global Summit returns to Europe in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT (the Italian national tourist board), the Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region. Taking place at the iconic Auditorium Parco della Musica, the event will set the stage for high-impact debates and bold commitments on the issues defining Travel & Tourism. From the game-changing potential of AI to shaping the future of a sector that generates 10% of global GDP. The first confirmed speakers include: Minor Hotel Group, Founder & Chairman, William E. Heinecke Virtuoso, Founder & CEO, Matthew Upchurch Trip.com Group, CEO, Jane Sun, CEO TBO.Com, Co-Founder, Gaurav Bhatnagar Diriyah Company, Group CEO, Jerry Inzerillo MSC Cruises, Executive Chairman of Cruise, Pierfrancesco Vago Arsenale Spa, CEO, Paolo Barletta IC Bellagio, CEO – Sole Founder, Andrea Grisdale The Bicester Collection, Chair & Global Chief Merchant, Desiree Bollier Marriott International, CEO, Anthony Capuano Visit California, President & CEO, Caroline Beteta Google Inc, Head of Retail & Travel, EMEA Partnerships Solutions, Christie Travers-Smith InterContinental Hotels Group, Global CEO, Elie Maalouf Amadeus, President: Travel, Decius Valmorbida Menezes VFS Global, Founder, Founder & CEO, Zubin Karkaria Other speakers include: Indian Hotels Company, CEO, Puneet Chhatwal Microsoft, Global Managing Director - Travel, Transport & Hospitality Industry, Julie Shainock OMRAN Group, CEO, Hashil Al Mahrouqi Terme & Spa Italia, President & Owner, Massimo Caputi During the Global Summit, WTTC’s current Chair, Greg O’Hara, Founder and Senior Managing Director of Certares Management LLC (“Certares”) will pass the torch to Manfredi Lefebvre, Chairman of Heritage Group and co-chair of luxury travel company Abercrombie and Kent - one of the most recognised names in Travel & Tourism. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “We're thrilled to have such a distinguished group of speakers already confirmed for our Global Summit in Rome. “The Eternal City provides a perfect backdrop for a Summit where the world's Travel & Tourism leaders will gather to innovate, collaborate, and drive a decade of exceptional, sustainable growth.” Minister of Tourism, Daniela Santanchè, who will also be addressing delegates at this year’s Global Summit said: "The names confirmed so far reaffirm the absolute prestige of the world’s largest tourism event: the WTTC Global Summit will be a historic moment that will offer enormous opportunities in favour of large investments in Italy, so much so that a special focus with Invitalia is dedicated precisely to this issue”. Greg O’Hara, Founder & Senior Managing Director, Certares, and WTTC Chair, added: "The WTTC Global Summit has evolved into the most influential gathering in Travel & Tourism, bringing together the people and ideas that shape our sector’s future. Rome will be a launchpad for the next decade of growth, innovation, and collaboration. “I’m honoured to host my final Summit as Chair alongside such an extraordinary line-up of leaders, as we work together to ensure Travel & Tourism continues to drive prosperity and connect cultures around the world." Manfredi Lefebvre, Executive Chairman of AKTG, Abercrombie & Kent and Crystal Cruises and WTTC Chair-Elect, added: “As we gather in the heart of Rome, we are reminded that the future of Travel & Tourism is not just about destinations, but about the connections we forge and the experiences we create together. This summit marks a pivotal moment for our industry; it is an opportunity to embrace innovation and resilience, ensuring that we not only thrive but also leave a lasting legacy for future generations.” More speakers and headline sessions will be announced in the coming weeks, with the programme set to tackle the most pressing challenges and exciting opportunities for a sector that generates millions of jobs, drives economic resilience, and connects communities across the globe.
WTTC Global Summit makes its way to Rome this September
All roads lead to Rome this September as the global travel and tourism sectors head to Italy for the 25th World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit. The most influential event on the global tourism calendar will be held from 28th to 30th September at the Auditorium Parco della Musica. The Summit will bring together titans of industry from Italy and around the world, alongside ministers, mayors, CEOs, and creative leaders, to shape the future of a sector that continues to prove its power to generate jobs, economic resilience, and global connection. The event is hosted in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT (the Italian national tourist board), the Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region. Cultural exchanges in the Eternal City Rome is a fitting location for a sector that thrives on timeless beauty, innovation, and cultural exchange. According to WTTC president and CEO Julia Simpson: “Italy represents everything the world loves about travel: beauty, quality, culture and cuisine. Rome is the perfect stage for a Summit that will welcome the world’s tourism leaders to think boldly, act collaboratively, and help shape a decade of growth rooted in excellence.” Indeed, Italy will welcome the world’s tourism leaders as the sector accelerates into a decade of growth expected to outpace the wider economy nearly fourfold. WTTC’s members and many of Italy’s leaders in the fields of travel and tourism will play a central role, reflecting Italy’s leadership in cruising, hospitality, fashion, and wellness tourism. Where leadership changes hands From artificial intelligence and sustainable aviation to destination stewardship and the preservation of culture and heritage, the 2025 Global Summit will cover the most urgent and exciting developments in the sector such as transport innovation, luxury and fashion travel, and tourism policies for a connected future. During the Global Summit, WTTC chair Greg O’Hara, founder and senior managing director of Certares Management LLC, will also hand over the reins of leadership to Manfredi Lefebvre, one of the leading names in global travel and tourism, as well as chairman of Heritage Group and co-chair of luxury travel company Abercrombie and Kent. Lefebvre said of this shift in leadership: “As we gather in the heart of Italy, we are not just celebrating the resilience of the travel and tourism industry, but also embracing the opportunity to innovate and inspire for a sustainable future. Rome, with its rich history and vibrant culture, serves as an ideal backdrop for this pivotal dialogue among global leaders. Together, we can harness the power of tourism to create meaningful experiences that transcend borders and foster global connections."
MTE Hanoi 2025 – Unlocking Opportunities in Vietnam’s Hospitality & Real Estate
Join MTE Hanoi As Vietnam’s Booming Development Pipeline Opens New Opportunities - Meet The Nation’s Key Developers And Industry Leaders At The Premier Hospitality And Real Estate Conference.
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