Latest from Travel Daily News
Travel Daily News
a day ago
- Travel Daily News
The most accessible smart cities for modern travellers
The Global Accessibility Index selects the highest-rated cities from the 2025 IMD Smart City Index to reveal the most accessible smart cities. As summer travel ramps up, the importance of accessible cities takes centre stage. With millions of people planning vacations, festivals, and outdoor events, ensuring that urban spaces are accessible for individuals with disabilities is essential. With this in mind, the organisation behind the Smart City Expo World Congress event has revealed the 25 most accessible smart cities to demonstrate if smart cities are, in fact, accessible. Experts selected the highest-rated cities from the 2025 IMD Smart City Index and then analysed if residents receive support to adapt their homes, the number of adapted tube stations, the number of accessible tourist attractions and the number of adapted hotels and properties. In addition, the analysis also shares the apps available for those with disabilities so they can move around the city as freely as possible. Shanghai and Singapore rank as the most accessible cities among those evaluated in the IMD Smart City Index 2025, each scoring over 80 points on Global Accessibility Index. They are not the only Chinese cities in the ranking because Hong Kong and Beijing also appear in the top ten. All these Chinese cities are also known for being major tourist destinations. European cities perform well in terms of accessibility, holding half the spots in the ranking, with Munich, Amsterdam, Prague, and Stockholm standing out by scoring over 67 points. Only two Australian cities made it into the ranking: Wellington and Canberra. Meanwhile, the modern Arab cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi are placed in the lower half of the ranking. The top 5 most accessible smart cities Shanghai, China: In first position and with an overall score of 84.86 out of 100 is Shanghai. All tube stations of Shanghai are adapted, with a further 733 adapted tourist attractions; that's 73% of all attractions in the city. On top of that, the city counts 14 adapted hotels and properties out of 57, making Shanghai one of the best cities to visit freely and without any obstacles this summer. Singapore, Singapore: Singapore is in second position with an overall accessibility score of 81.50 out of 100. Singapore offers its citizens economic support so they can adapt their homes to their needs. Also, if you are looking to discover this new city this summer season, 100% of the city's tube stations are adapted (185), Singapore offers 217 adapted attractions out of a total of 796 and 97 adapted hotels and properties out of 321 available to enjoy. Last but not least, those visiting Singapore can download the app Citymapper to move around the city with all the information and support they might need. Wellington, New Zealand: Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, secures a spot in the top three with an overall accessibility score of 79.12 out of 100. This stunning city is the perfect spot for those who want to enjoy nice weather and scenic views of the most amazing beaches. Wellington has a total of 49 stations, all of them adapted. Moreover, 35 out of its 132 hotels and apartments are adapted. Last but not least, the city offers 38 adapted tourist attractions, making this city one of the perfect places to visit this summer. Munich, Germany: In fourth position, with an overall score of 78.92 out of 100, is the German city of Munich. For those who love to experience the Gothic architecture, this is your perfect destination; Munich has all 100 tube stations adapted, allowing visitors to move freely around the city. 75 out of its 359 hotels and apartments are also adapted, providing several options to choose from. And with almost 42% of its tourist attractions being adapted (317 out of 747), this European city becomes a great option looking to escape over the summer. Amsterdam, The Netherlands: Rounding out the top five with an overall accessibility score of 76.51 is Amsterdam, the second European city to appear in the Global Accessibility Index. Amsterdam offers a perfect combination for those who want to enjoy the cafes and restaurants of the city, while also appreciating the culture and art the city has to offer. Amsterdam has 86 tube stations, all of them adapted, and 53% of its tourist attractions are adapted (533 out of 1,000), making Amsterdam a great choice for this summer. Those visiting the city are recommended to download the app Ongehinderd to move more easily and freely around the city. The Global Accessibility Index – A look at the top 25 smart cities and how adapted they are: Methodology The top 25 smart cities were selected based on the Smart City Index from IMD. Information were obtained from each metrics from the following sources: Home Adaptability: Government and Council websites, specific sources available upon request. Number of adapted tube stations – Government and Council websites, specific sources available upon request. Accessible Tourist Attractions – Adapted hotels and properties – All data points have been indexed in order to allow a fair comparison and to obtain the overall accessibility index figure. All the data is correct as of June 2025.
Travel Daily News
3 days ago
- Business
- Travel Daily News
TUI Group accelerates hotel expansion across Africa
TUI Blue and TUI Suneo extend their portfolio in North Africa; New openings planned in The Gambia and Côte d'Ivoire. CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA – TUI Group continues to expand its hotel business worldwide and pursues ambitious plans to support the African hospitality industry. With its 12 leisure hotel brands, the group offers unique experiences for holidaymakers and invites them to enjoy the respective region with its culinary delights, natural beauty and cultural heritage. A few weeks ago, the brands TUI Blue and TUI Suneo expanded their portfolio in Africa. In Egypt, TUI Blue Samaya with 143 rooms and an aqua park has been added to the premium brand's portfolio. The hotel is located in the growing destination of Marsa Alam. For holidaymakers looking for value for money, TUI Suneo Palm Beach Skanes in Tunisia has also opened its doors. With 294 rooms and a large garden area, the hotel is offering an attractive all-inclusive package with a wide range of sports and entertainment options. 'Together with our long-standing JV partners, we have more than 20 hotels in our pipeline that will open in Africa in the coming months and years', says Artur Gerber, Managing Director TUI Hotels & Resorts, at the Future Hospitality Summit Africa. 'We already have a strong presence in North Africa, the Cape Verde Islands and Zanzibar, but we are convinced that other destinations can also benefit from our strong leisure hotel brands.' For example, the lifestyle brand TUI Blue is planning its first hotel in The Gambia, which will open at the end of this year. The resort features 140 rooms and a unique location along Kotu Beach. 'With our expertise, along with management and franchise agreements, we are also attracting hotel partners in entirely new destinations. One example is Côte d'Ivoire, where the construction of a new TUI Blue hotel has just started and is scheduled to open in 2027', adds Wesam Okasha, Head of Global Development TUI Blue. Last year, company launched a new brand targeting the upscale market and selected Tanzania as its inaugural destination. The Mora Zanzibar has just celebrated its first anniversary, offering laid-back, contemporary luxury with highly personalized and flexible service. 'Our guest reviews show that The Mora is resonating strongly with this new audience and delivering an exceptional experience. We are very proud of this achievement and look forward to introducing more carefully selected The Mora hotels across Africa,' says Artur Gerber. TUI Hotels & Resorts' current portfolio in Africa comprises a total of 97 hotels with over 30,000 rooms across eight countries.
Travel Daily News
4 days ago
- Business
- Travel Daily News
Travel & Tourism in Egypt reaches historic milestones
Egypt's travel and tourism sector hit record highs in 2024, with GDP contribution, visitor spending, and employment set to grow further in 2025. LONDON, UK – The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed record-breaking data for Egypt's Travel & Tourism sector, with 2024 marking the highest-ever contribution to the national economy, and 2025 forecast to surpass that record once again. According to WTTC's latest Economic Impact Research (EIR), developed in collaboration with Oxford Economics, the sector contributed EGP 1.4tn. to Egypt's GDP in 2024, accounting for 8.5% of the national economy. Looking ahead, 2025 is projected to set a new all-time high with a forecast annual growth of 4.9% and increase in the sector's share to 8.6% of national GDP. This underlines the central role of Travel & Tourism in Egypt's continued economic development. Visitor Spending Surpasses Pre-Pandemic Records 2024 also marked the strongest year on record for visitor spending. International visitor expenditure in Egypt reached EGP 726.9bn., up 36.1% compared to 2019, while domestic visitor spending rose to EGP 449.9bn., 31.8% above pre-pandemic levels. This upward trend is set to continue. In 2025, international visitor spending is projected to increase to EGP 768.2bn., and domestic spending is expected to reach EGP 460.6BN, maintaining the country's strong recovery and sustained demand across both international and local travel. Employment Growth Exceeds 2019 Levels In addition to record-breaking economic contribution and visitor spending, in 2024, the sector supported 2.7 million jobs, exceeding the 2019 peak. This growth is set to continue in Egypt, with 2025 employment forecast to rise to 2.9 million, marking a 22.3% increase compared to 2019. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: 'Egypt's Travel & Tourism sector is experiencing a powerful resurgence, with record-breaking economic contribution and a sustained surge in visitor spending. These numbers reflect a sector on the rise: dynamic, resilient, and vital to the country's growth. With its rich cultural heritage, world-class attractions, and growing connectivity, Egypt continues to captivate travellers from around the globe. The government's focus on investment, infrastructure, and sustainable tourism is clearly paying off.' A Decade of Growth WTTC forecasts a decade of sustained expansion for Egypt's Travel & Tourism sector. By 2035, the sector is expected to contribute EGP to the national economy, accounting for 8.4% of GDP. Employment is projected to reach 3.8 million jobs, representing 10.5% of total employment, and highlighting the sector's critical role in job creation. Over the same period, international visitor spending is expected to rise to EGP 1.1tn., while domestic spending is forecast to reach EGP 627BN, reflecting Egypt's potential to become one of the region's most vibrant and sustainable tourism economies.
Travel Daily News
18-06-2025
- 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
18-06-2025
- 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.
