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UN Tourism's Inaugural Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa Sets Course for Sustainable Development

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 30, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 30, 2024 – The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) successfully convened its first Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The event, held under the patronage of Zimbabwe's First Lady, Dr. Auxillia C. Mnangagwa, and in partnership with the Basque Culinary Center, marked a significant milestone in advancing sustainable tourism and culinary development throughout the continent.

Elevating Africa's Culinary Heritage

The forum brought together a diverse assembly of over 200 delegates from 33 countries, including government officials, representatives from international organizations, chefs, entrepreneurs, and industry experts. The discussions centered on harnessing the power of gastronomy tourism to drive economic growth, empower local communities, and showcase Africa's rich culinary heritage to the world.

CARAVAN SALON 2024: Full Program for the Caravanning Community

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 25, 2024 – Düsseldorf is set to become the epicenter of mobile leisure as it hosts CARAVAN SALON 2024 from August 30 to September 8. This annual event is a celebration of self-determined and independent travel, offering visitors an unparalleled experience of freedom and individuality.

For ten days, Düsseldorf will be the international capital of mobile leisure, featuring an extensive program, special shows, and a plethora of attractions. Spread over 250,000 square meters, more than 750 exhibitors will present the latest caravans, motorhomes, campervans, accessories, expansion parts, tents, mobile homes, vacation destinations, and camping pitches.

Planet Fitness Flexes Global Muscle with First European Gym in Spain

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 24, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 24, 2024 – Planet Fitness, a leading global fitness franchise renowned for its inclusive Judgement Free Zone®, today announced the grand opening of its first European club in Sabadell, Spain. This milestone represents a significant step in the company's international expansion strategy and underscores its commitment to making fitness accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Expanding the Judgement Free Zone®

Planet Fitness has garnered a loyal following with its non-intimidating atmosphere, affordable memberships, and top-tier amenities. With a proven track record of success in the United States, Canada, Latin America, and Australia, the company is now bringing its unique brand of fitness to Spain, where it aims to tap into the growing demand for accessible and welcoming fitness facilities.

Planet Fitness Price Increase Signals Shift in Fitness Industry Landscape

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 24, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 24, 2024 – Planet Fitness, a prominent player in the high-value, low-price (HVLP) gym segment, has recently implemented a significant price increase for its Classic Membership, marking the first such change in nearly three decades. The move, which elevates the monthly fee from $10 to $15, is garnering attention from industry analysts who predict that this strategic decision could reshape the pricing dynamics of the fitness landscape.

A Year of Transformation and Resilience

The past year has presented Planet Fitness with several challenges, including a change in leadership, macroeconomic pressures, and a social media-induced controversy. Despite these hurdles, the company's membership base has continued to grow, approaching an impressive 20 million members, underscoring its resilience and market dominance in the HVLP sector.

Wellcraft Makes Waves with the Launch of the 435 Performance Cruiser

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 24, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 24, 2024 – Wellcraft, a legendary American boat builder synonymous with performance and innovation, is making a splash with the introduction of its latest marvel, the Wellcraft 435. This impressive vessel, the largest in the company's lineup, marks a significant step forward in the evolution of adventure performance cruisers.

Designed for Adventure, Engineered for Excellence

The Wellcraft 435 is a culmination of meticulous design and cutting-edge engineering. Conceived by the renowned Garroni Design in Italy and renowned American naval architect Michael Peters, this 44-foot (13.4m) cruiser seamlessly marries elegance with exceptional performance, ensuring an unforgettable boating experience.

UNWTO Champions Sustainable Tourism Growth and Investment in Africa

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 24, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 24, 2024 – The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) recently convened the 67th meeting of its Regional Commission for Africa in Livingstone, Zambia, where it unveiled a comprehensive plan to drive sustainable tourism growth and investment across the continent. This strategic initiative comes as Africa experiences a strong resurgence in tourism, with arrivals in the first quarter of 2024 surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

Africa's Tourism Renaissance

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili emphasized Africa's remarkable tourism recovery, noting a 5% increase in arrivals during the first quarter of 2024 compared to pre-pandemic figures. This growth rate places Africa as the second-fastest recovering region globally, second only to the Middle East.

New York City's Summer of Musical Theater Extends Beyond Broadway

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 23, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 23, 2024 – New York City's illustrious theater industry is extending its reach beyond the traditional confines of Broadway this summer, offering residents and tourists alike unique opportunities to experience the magic of live musical performances in unconventional settings.

Broadway in Bryant Park: A Complimentary Al Fresco Concert Series

For those seeking an enchanting afternoon of music and sunshine, "Broadway in Bryant Park" presents a captivating series of free concerts featuring iconic numbers from renowned Broadway productions such as &Juliet, SIX the Musical, The Outsider, Wicked, Aladdin, and The Lion King. The performances are scheduled for July 25th and August 1st at 12:30 PM in the picturesque Bryant Park. Due to limited seating, early arrival is advised to secure optimal viewing vantage points.

U.S.-China Tourism Leadership Summit Signals Resurgence of Chinese Travel to America

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 22, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 22, 2024 – The recent 14th U.S.-China Tourism Leadership Summit in Xi'an, China,has set the stage for a significant rebound in Chinese tourism to the United States. This high-level gathering, jointly hosted by Brand USA, the U.S. Department of Commerce, and the Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism, signifies a renewed commitment to fostering collaboration and growth within this vital tourism sector.

Revitalizing a Key Economic Driver

Prior to the pandemic, China was a major source of tourism revenue for the United States. In 2019, Chinese visitors spent an estimated $35 billion in the U.S., supporting millions of American jobs and contributing significantly to local economies nationwide. The summit, the first since 2019, aimed to rekindle this crucial economic relationship and facilitate the return of Chinese travelers to American shores.

Brand USA Reports Strong International Travel Recovery, Prepares for Leadership Transition

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 22, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 22, 2024 – Brand USA, the nation's destination marketing organization, announced a robust recovery in international inbound travel to the United States, with a significant increase in visitor numbers and spending. The organization is also preparing for a seamless transition in leadership, welcoming a new president and CEO this month.

Resurgence of International Travel

In the past year, the United States welcomed nearly 67 million international visitors, contributing $213 billion to the national economy through travel and tourism-related expenditures. This represents a substantial 28% increase compared to the previous year, underscoring the enduring global appeal of the United States as a premier travel destination.

Global Appeal and Positive Outlook

Brand USA Ushers in New Era with Appointment of Fred Dixon as President & CEO

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 22, 2024 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 22, 2024 – Brand USA, the nation's destination marketing organization, announced the appointment of seasoned travel industry executive Fred Dixon as its new President & Chief Executive Officer,effective July 15, 2024. Dixon's appointment signals a strategic move to capitalize on the ongoing strength of the U.S.tourism industry and position Brand USA for continued growth and innovation.

Dixon's Proven Track Record

Dixon brings a wealth of experience to the role, having most recently served as the President and CEO of NYC Tourism + Conventions. During his tenure, he spearheaded New York City's remarkable rise as a premier global destination,doubling international visitation. His 30-year career in the travel and tourism sector is characterized by strategic leadership, a commitment to innovation, and a deep understanding of the evolving needs of global travelers.