News
GLOBAL SNAPSHOT
EUROPE
Helsinki named world ’ s most sustainable travel destination
Helsinki has been designated the world ’ s most sustainable travel destination , ranking number one in the latest Global Destination Sustainability ( GDS ) Index .
The GDS , published on 16 October 2024 , measures the sustainability of travel destinations in four categories using more than 70 indicators .
“ We are developing and growing tourism sustainably together with tourism operators and local residents . Achieving this ‘ first place ’ indicates that we are on the right path ,” commented Juhana Vartiainen , mayor of Helsinki .
EUROPE
UK Meetings Industry Association appoints new CEO The UK ’ s Meetings Industry Association ( MIA ) has appointed Shonali Devereaux as its new chief executive . She takes over from Kerrin MacPhie who stands down in December .
Devereaux has worked across the business meetings and events sector , and has 30 years ’ experience working on high-profile events , including the Olympics and Commonwealth Games , 20 years in senior leadership and serving as vice-chair of the UK Tourism Alliance , as well as bring a volunteer with industry mentorship scheme Fast Forward 15 . She is currently a lecturer in Events Management and Tourism and speaker at industry events .
AMERICAS
‘ Special Agents ’ created for tourism and hospitality in DC Destination DC ( DDC ) in the US , is expanding its training platform to equip travel agents , tour operators and hospitality workers with the knowledge and tools to promote the US capital as a premier travel destination .
The Washington , DC Special Agent Academy offers training that combines core city information with in-depth insights into DC ’ s neighbourhoods , festivals and unique landmarks .
By completing designated missions , participants can become certified ‘ Special Agents ’, gaining access to discounts , prizes and support from the Destination DC Tourism and Visitor Experience team .
MIDDLE EAST
ASM Global makes leadership change at Exhibition World Bahrain
International venue management company ASM Global has appointed a new general manager for Exhibition World Bahrain ( EWB ). Convention industry specialist Alan Pryor took up the role on 13 October 2024 . He brings more than 40 years ’ experience in international convention and hotel management , including as general manager for the ASM Global operated Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in Malaysia .
Dr Debbie Kristiansen , who served as Exhibition World Bahrain GM after delivering a successful opening of the centre last year , now steps down to take a well-earned break .
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