The Botanic Garden, or Orto Botanico, in Rome's Trastevere district, offers a beautiful escape from the bustle of the city’s traffic-packed streets.

A beautiful Roman site with no need to wait in line 

The Orto Botanico, its tranquil green spaces flecked with parakeets – a recent invasive species – provides an appealing alternative for which you don’t need to stand in line in the Eternal City. From Piazza Trilussa in Trastevere, along Via della Lungara and into Via Corsini, the cobblestones stop at the Botanic Garden’s ticket-office, while higher up on the Janiculum Hill Garibaldi’s statue can be seen peeping over the treeline.

Rome meets the world on the slopes of the Janiculum Hill

Well-marked gravel pathways lead past antique and headless busts, with an astonishing variety of plants and trees from the four corners of the world. Ranging from the Janiculum’s oak forest to an Orangery and to carnivorous plants, there is also the Corsini Cactus House with flowers in shades of brilliant mauves, reds and yellows. 

A Water Garden and medicinal plants

Past the water-garden, at close quarters one can observe the Wollemia nobilis or dinosaur tree which was deemed extinct up to 1944. Another once seemingly defunct tree on show is China’s Metasequioa glyptostroboides: 5,000 years from its so-called extinction date. There is also a culinary Garden of the Senses, as well as the Garden of Simples with plants that were used by mediaeval monks to prepare medicines. In the Tropical Greenhouse humidity is a fixed 80% but of course attracts visitors at all times of the year, despite its stifling atmosphere.   

According to Confindustria, record-breaking foreign and luxury tourism are keeping the Italian economy afloat. 

Record foreign spending in July

The expenditure of foreigners in Italy was an important item among the components of Italy's GDP (+0.1%  in Q3 2023) in the first nine months of this year, and is a large part of the direct economic value of tourism to the country. The contribution of foreigners to the tourism boom has been crucial: in September 2023 the growth of foreign travellers' spending in Italy rose by 11.8% on 2022 (at current prices), with a record reached in July. This spending, when compared to pre-pandemic levels, shows a +24.5% increase over 2019. Which is only in part due to the increase in the prices of tourism services (about +6% in 2023).

The stagnation of the economy is a drawback

By the end of 2023 revenues from foreign tourism will reach over €50 billion, far exceeding the €30 billion Italians spent abroad. But there is still room for growth in the hospitality sector: beds in hotels rose to 48.3% in 2022, compared to 49.0% in 2019, and are expected to rise further in 2023, though a return to the pre-pandemic growth trajectory could be delayed by the stagnation affecting the Italian and world economies. 

As the scenario changes Italian companies seem to be reacting. Travellers' choices are more oriented towards luxury experiences (+57% 5-star hotels in the last decade), new destinations,  climate change and virtual technologies that prepare for (or will replace?) in-person travel.

06/09 MAGGIO 2024

Che cosa è il Romance Travel Forum?

Il Romance Travel Forum è un evento del settore dedicato alle destinazioni TOP per il wedding, viaggi di nozze e qualsiasi altro evento privato o anniversario che può essere celebrato in un viaggio. Il format dell’evento prevede un numero ridotto di partecipanti che lo rende esclusivo e si basa su appuntamenti one-2-one dove gli espositori/seller incontrano un pubblico selezionato di buyer/agenti di viaggi TOP nella nicchia dei viaggi e dalle vacanze Wedding & Honeymoon.

Perché partecipare:

• Rapporto tra i buyers e i sellers presenti è di 2:1 (circa 190 buyers e circa 90 sellers)
• Presenza all’evento di buyers TOP provenienti da tutto il Nord America; nella maggior parte dei casi si tratta di agenti di viaggi che sono specializzati esclusivamente in questo tipologia di viaggi
• Agenda personalizzata per gli appuntamenti one-2-one con minimo 40 appuntamenti garantiti
• Networking durante tutta la durata del soggiorno
• Accesso agli eventi serali
• Visibilità del marchio
• Un soggiorno all-inclusive di tre notti presso la struttura ospitante (valido per una sola persona per ogni azienda)

Il Romance Travel Forum si svolgerà presso Secrets Playa Blanca – Costa Mujeres (Messico) e seguirà il seguente programma:

Lunedì 6 maggio ♥ Giorno di arrivo/Registrazione/evento serale

Martedì 7  maggio ♥ Conferenza di apertura seguita dai lavori one-2-one/pranzo/tempo libero a disposizione/evento serale

Mercoledì 8 maggio ♥ Giornata intera dedicata ai lavori one-2-one/pranzo/tempo libero a disposizione/evento serale

Giovedì 9 maggio ♥ Partenza; (per chi volesse prolungare il soggiorno tariffe convenzionate su richiesta)

Profilo dei buyers:

- generalmente titolari delle agenzie di viaggi specializzate

- le agenzie hanno un fatturato medio annuo di 1 milione di USD

- circa 75% dei viaggi venduti nelle rispettive agenzie sono rappresentati dal Wedding&Honeymoon

Profilo dei sellers:

• Resorts all inclusive
• Strutture alberghiere di lusso
• Destinazioni
• Tour Operator
• Compagnie di crociere
• Aziende di trasporto
• DMO
• DMC
• Luoghi di nozze unici
• e tanto altro ancora!

Quota di partecipazione: 5.750,00 euro (+ IVA)

Cosa offre il pacchetto:

• Appuntamenti individuali
• Agenda condivisa di incontri one-to-one con consulenti di viaggio
• Branding e visibilità promozionale in tutte le comunicazioni rivolte ai buyer
• Eventi di networking unici per metterti in contatto con i consulenti di viaggio partecipanti
• una mezza pagina di pubblicità nel giornale ItaliAbsolutely edizione speciale dedicata all’evento
• 3 pernottamenti in all inclusive in camera singola per un solo rappresentante dell’azienda; un’ulteriore camera costerebbe 1.000,00 USD (pagabili direttamente); il costo delle eventuali notti supplementari 229,00 UDS/notte (in all inclusive)

Nella quota di partecipazione non sono incluse le spese per il trasporto aereo internazionale, i trasferimenti e le spese personali.

Piedmont is a treasure trove of ideas for outdoor activities, from walking and bike excursions to adventures in refuges, and wine tours.

Stunning nature, cuisine and heritage

Italy’s northern Piedmont region is a treasure trove with stunning nature, delectable cuisine, a rich cultural heritage and cherished traditions. From the majestic Monte Rosa to the ridges of Ossola and Biella, and from the lofty peaks of Turin to those of Cuneo, with Monviso. These then extend to the rolling hills of the Alta Langa and the Apennines where the sea breeze is already in the air, Piedmont boasts a wide variety of accessible excursions and more challenging treks, suitable for both leisurely rides and adventurous outings on two wheels.

Walking and bike excursions on a pilgrim’s route

The cross-border region between Piedmont and France seamlessly blends holistic experiences with sports. Along the Via Francigena of the Susa Valley, whether on foot or on a bike, you can connect with the pilgrims who, in medieval times, embarked on journeys to reach Rome or Santiago de Compostela. For a more demanding and totally captivating adventure, consider the Tour of the Five Refuges in the Orsiera-Rocciavrè Park, crossing three valleys on the outskirts of Turin.

The picturesque Erbaluce wine hills

Between the provinces of Turin and Vercelli, the Sentiero delle Pietre Bianche unfolds along interconnected loops that touch on 11 municipalities. Cyclists and e-bike enthusiasts can book a guided tour exploring lakes, canals, castles, and the picturesque Erbaluce wine hills. The Giro di Viso circular trek, including an ascent to the Buco di Viso, is particularly challenging, and caters to experienced hikers. The route takes you through rugged landscapes and the imposing rock faces of Monviso, with refuges strategically placed around the highest peak of the Cottian Alps. In the Cuneo area, the Via del Sale stands out as a classic for seasoned bikers, offering spectacular views and diverse environments. 

Take a Tour of Taste in the Alta Langa

In the Alta Langa region, a delightful route suitable for everyone, especially those on e-bikes, is the Tour of Taste, a circular trail immersed in nature, just a few kilometres from Alba. Meandering through places renowned for their cheeses, hazelnuts and castles, the tour passes through villages that have preserved their authenticity down the centuries.

Il Travel Agent Forum è un'opportunità senza precedenti per gli operatori turistici  di raggiungere e incontrare più di 1000 agenti di viaggi provenienti dagli Stati Uniti e Canada. 

Il Las Vegas Travel Agent Forum, giunto alla sua 14° edizione, è una vetrina esclusiva per fornitori, sponsor e agenti di viaggio che potranno usufruire di ampie opportunità di networking e di business.

Per le sue caratteristiche, il Las Vegas Travel Agent Forum è l'evento B2B più importante nel Nord America.

Profilo dei buyer partecipanti al LVTAF

Agenti di viaggi visitatori:

• buyer con un volume di vendite misto che vanno da 200.000 USD a più di 1 milione USD
• interessati ad ampliare le conoscenze a livello globale
• interessati ad approfondire destinazioni, Italia inclusa, tendenze di nicchia, prodotti e servizi

Hosted Buyers (Travel Agent SELECT):

Il programma Travel Agent SELECT assicura ai sellers presenti, un pubblico di agenti di viaggi attentamente selezionato, con un consistente track record di produzione e riconoscimento delle vendite all'interno del settore. Solo questo rigoroso processo di selezione consente di partecipare come hosted buyer. La partecipazione darà, quindi, ai seller la possibilità di incontrare i migliori agenti di viaggi con un importante portfolio  di affari.

I Travel Agent SELECT sono:

• top sellers con un portfolio d'affari attivo superiore a 1 milione USD ogni anno
• professionisti esperti con almeno 8 anni di esperienza nel settore dei viaggi
• global sellers
• un ottimo equilibrio tra membri consorziati e non.

BONUS: Una forte percentuale degli agenti di viaggi SELECT sono proprietari e/o gestori delle agenzie di viaggi. Quasi l'88% dei presenti ha riferito di aver aver iniziato a lavorare sin da subito con i sellers presenti all’evento.

ItaliAbsolutely Village al Las Vegas Travel Agent Forum

Travel Quotidiano e Travel Open Day saranno presenti alla 14° edizione del Las Vegas Travel Agent Forum con ItalyAbsolutely Village per presentare agli agenti di viaggi nord americani il meglio dell’offerta turistica italiana finora mancante da questo importante evento.

10 motivi per partecipare all’ItaliAbsolutely Village:

1. Incrementare il vostro business e interagire con il più grande incontro nord americano del settore di agenzie di viaggi
2. Incontrare un pubblico autorevole di venditori di viaggi a tutti i livelli nella loro carriera
3. Forgiare nuove relazioni attraverso incontri diretti
4. Aumentare la presenza e l’autorevolezza del vostro marchio attraverso un’importante opportunità di marketing
5. Usufruire di una serie di eventi di networking e interagire con tutti i delegati
6. Incontrare gli agenti di viaggi selezionati del programma Travel Agent Select
7. La presenza al Village in qualità di espositore 
8. Essere inseriti in una banca dati globale di fornitori di viaggi che intendono collaborare con gli agenti di viaggi nord americani
9. Poter partecipare alle conferenze formative per aumentare le conoscenze del settore
10. Non per ultimo, vivere la città di Las Vegas e l'emozionante Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, situato in posizione centrale sulla Strip

IL PROGRAMMA:

24 marzo:     Arrivo dei partecipanti, registrazione

25 marzo:     Giornata dedicata a momenti di formazione, nella quale organizzeremo una conferenza con il focus “Incoming in Italia”; in questa occasione verranno presentati gli espositori al Village ai circa 250 hosted buyers; sistemazione del proprio tavolo di lavoro;

26 marzo:     Primo giorno effettivo di fiera; evento serale con tutti i partecipanti

27 marzo:     Seconda e ultima giornata di fiera; ore 12.30 fine evento

N.B. Vista l’importanza dell’evento i posti sono limitati; dead line per la prenotazione: 24 gennaio 2024.

Per chi non ha la possibilità di partecipare fisicamente all’evento, diamo l’opportunità di presentarsi ai buyers attraverso il giornale ItaliAbsolutely pubblicato in questa occasione (distribuito in 1000 copie all’evento).

Costi per la pubblicità:

- pagina intera:        1.250,00 euro + IVA

- mezza pagina:         700,00 euro + IVA

La pubblicità verrà sostenuta da un mini profilo aziendale.

A bonus worth €500 to employees, thanks to 3% of the profits distributed by Terme di Saturnia.

Terme di Saturnia’s four-year turnaround

Following a four-year turnaround, which brought Terme di Saturnia’s turnover from €15 to 25 million per year, the spa complex decided to involve all its employees in a bonus process, in addition to the variable compensation mechanisms already in place and linked to the results of the various business areas.

A bonus that uses an innovative digital welfare platform

In order to allocate the bonus, awarded in such a way as to allow employees to reconcile with the tax exemption regime allowed by law, the company has made use of an innovative digital welfare platform, which will allow employees to take advantage of useful goods and services available locally, regionally, and internationally. 

A new spa near the San Siro football stadium in Milan

Terme di Saturnia, one of the top companies in Tuscany, is the flagship of the Terme Italia group, employs some 200 people and is launching a development process in Italy and abroad, within the Terme Italia holding. In November 2024 Terme Italia will open the Scuderie de Montel spa complex in Milan, after a major redevelopment of an historic building adjacent to the San Siro football stadium.

Rome Fiumicino airport is enhancing the shopping experience for travellers in the new Boarding Area A with the addition of 14 new high-end fashion brands. 

A wide range of upscale shopping

Spanning 1,700 square meters, the area is exclusively dedicated to fashion accessories, clothing, footwear, and jewellery from renowned Italian brands such as Bulgari, Bottega Veneta, Gucci, Moncler, Dolce&Gabbana, Golden Goose, MaxMara Weekend, Vilebrequin, Pinko, Twin Set, Piquadro, The Bridge, Coccinelle, and Furla. The new retail outlets also offer services like pick-up on return and home delivery (soon to be operational). This allows Italian and European passengers, as well as those arriving and departing from Rome with intermediate stops within the Schengen area, to collect their purchases.

The world’s largest Duty Free by Lagardère 

The introduction of this luxury shopping in Area A represents another step in the reconfiguration of the new Terminal 1. This transformation began with the recent opening of the world's largest Duty-Free by Lagardère, followed by the shopping arcade in the new Front Building. There are also new to lounges and food & beverage outlets. These enhancements aim to provide passengers with a more complete, enjoyable experience, in line with the international accolades received by Rome Fiumicino Airpor (Leonardo da Vinci): Best Airport in Europe and the prestigious 5-Star Skytrax. 

Prioritizing the customer experience

Marilena Blasi, Aeroporti di Roma’s chief commercial officer says, “With the new openings we again prioritize the customer experience. This approach has brought about a substantial evolution in the planning of commercial systems, shifting from the traditional design of shopping areas to the creation of end-to-end experiences that are increasingly engaging and feature-rich.”

Sales for the 2024 season of the Caribe Water Park in Jesolo, which will open on 1 June, have started. 

Caribe Bay in Jesolo totalled over 5,400 overnights in 2023

"This year we will open on 1 June," says Caribe Bay’s CEO and founder, Luciano Pareschi. "The decision to anticipate the sales of packages is aimed in particular at foreign markets. In 2023 package sales grew by 35% over 2022, for a total of over 5,400 overnights.”

The Caribe Bay water park is a complete destination 

Despite the weather, inflation, and the end of the post-Covid rebound effect, 2023 turned out to be an excellent year for Caribe Bay with a record 300,000 visitors, beating all previous records and with a significant growth in terms of turnover. "We improved our performance in May, June and September, while keeping attendance figures unchanged in July and August. We promote the park as a complete destination, focusing on online sales and packages. On the one hand this allows us to push the low season, and, on the other, to address a wider audience. In 2023, foreign visitors accounted for 58% of park+hotel packages and 43% of ticket sales.” 

One of the seven best parks in the EMEA area

Caribe Bay’s main reference markets are Austria, Germany and Slovenia for the park+hotel formula, and Germany, Austria and Hungary for the park. In 2023 the Jesolo complex was named one of the seven best water parks in the EMEA area at the World Park Excellence Awards, and it was shortlisted among the ten winners of the European Star Award for water parks. 

Last year the demand for religious hospitality in Italy was 16% higher than the pre-pandemic year 2019.

Religious-related overnights were over 20 million

This data, processed by the Religious Hospitality Association of Italy, reveals that stays in religious facilities grew by 46% over 2022 last year. The association's president Fabio Rocchi explains that in 2023 religious hospitality accommodation hosted some five million people for a total of 20 million overnights. The catchment profile was mainly groups of pilgrims, religious movements and walkers travelling at specific times of the year. The demand from families also grew, with a significant number of university students and out-of-town workers.

Rome and Lazio top the list with some 29,500 beds

Italy has some 2,400 registered religious properties, with an average of 74 beds each. They offer services for spiritual, tourism, work or study stays and are managed by orders, congregations, dioceses and parishes. In addition to these, there are a further 500 non-profit lay organizations. The properties are spread throughout the country, but Rome and Lazio represent the areas of greatest concentration with almost 29,500 beds. This is followed by Veneto with over 19,000, and Emilia Romagna with more than 16,500.