Business Travel
Article | May 17, 2023
As COVID-19 wreaks havoc across the globe, tourism-dependent regions are suffering exponentially. The continent of Africa is one glaring example, with South Africa propelled into the global top 10 for coronavirus infections, reportedly now surpassing the United Kingdom in cases. For its part, the tourism and industrial sectors in North Africa will likely be hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the African Development Bank’s 2020 edition North Africa Economic Outlook report.
Even as Africa contends with pandemic concerns, there are still throngs of travelers who are keen to visit the region in the near future. Many are doing diligence to discern if, when and how to go about scheduling a trip to this tourism hotspot.
To help spotlight some top-line issues, I turned to entrepreneur and philanthropist Jay Cameron, Executive Director of Maximum Impact Travel. As one of the leading global experts on Africa travel and commerce, Cameron’s insights are invaluable as travelers deal with this tumultuous situation, helping ensure they plan smartly in the post-pandemic era.
MK: What are the key do’s and don’ts when traveling to Africa amid COVID-19?
JC: Surprisingly, some African countries have escaped the devastating impacts COVID-19 has caused globally. While other countries around the world have experienced often overwhelming consequences as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, much of Africa appears to have been spared. Even so, the statistics do not suggest the citizens of the countries of Africa have not felt its impact. The fact is, many countries in Africa are seeing regular increases in the numbers of those infected by the novel coronavirus, while much of the world is experiencing a decline in infections.
Around the world, experts warn outbreaks of COVID-19 in Africa may continue, resulting in a higher rate of deaths due to the limited local health services available. With coronavirus worries come fears of potential famine due to the virus threat, in combination with existing drought conditions and ongoing conflicts.
With this in mind, should you intend to travel to the continent now, or post-COVID-19, you should be prepared. Some good preparedness ideas include researching virus statistics in the country you wish to visit that, for one, you can review at AfricaNews.com. It is also advisable to learn if said country has any travel restrictions, which is information that is accessible online via at CDC.gov. Of course, maintaining a healthy lifestyle to boost immunity before and during your visit is also key.
MK: Should travelers be ready to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test result, either before departing or upon arrival?
JC: African countries are now opening for foreign travelers, but this does not indicate the belief that they have won the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. Most African countries are still battling with COVID-19 outbreaks, as the number of infected cases continues to rise daily in nearly every African country. To this end, stringent efforts are in place to ensure individuals arriving on the continent and entering various countries are free of the virus.
With this in mind, you should be prepared to present proof of negative COVID-19 status before entering the country to which you are traveling. This measure is being implemented around the globe and the countries of Africa are no exception.
In the same vein, departing any African country will require the same proof of negative COVID-19 status. Both mandates are in place to protect your fellow travelers on the flight as well as the residents of the country to which you are traveling. As things ebb and flow, you can check the status of this mandate online at AfricaTravelInc.com.
MK: What would you suggest about localized regulations?
JC: Travelers must research the localized regulations and requirements with respect to hotel and resorts, airports, ground transportation, public spaces and such for both their own country and their destination.. It is necessary that you understand departure rules from your country of origin, and even more important that you understand your destination country’s prevailing laws for foreign travelers regarding COVID-19. Some African countries like Tanzania and Zambia, for example, have mandated the use of face masks in public places with punishment for the contravention of such laws. Some hotels and resorts also have taken stringent measures and issued their own strict requirements for travelers arriving from foreign countries. For example, at this time, hotel bars in Rwanda are closed but the hotels themselves remain open.
Researching and understanding these laws before traveling enables you to stay safe during your visit and steer clear of legal issues with the local authorities. A helpful resource for staying up-to-date on laws that might affect travel to Africa can be found at Travel.State.gov.
MK: What about the airlines, specifically?
JC: Investigate the requirements for your airline as each carrier has varied responses to COVID-19. As a result of the pandemic, most airlines have adopted measures to keep their passengers and their staff safe. While some airlines like Delta require proof of a negative COVID-19 test before boarding your flight, others provide testing before your flight and attach the result to your ticket. Therefore, to ensure you are able to fly when scheduled, it is your responsibility to know the requirements of your airline before the flight to avoid any issues. A good resource for this is Go2Africa.com.
MK: Should tourists be prepared for temperature screenings and COVID-19 tests upon arrival and departure?
JC: As pointed out earlier, many African countries are still battling the pandemic, so to keep the residents of their countries safe post-COVID-19, airports have been mandated to request test results or test passengers on-site. Therefore, when traveling, you should be prepared for a coronavirus test upon arrival or departure from any African country. If you refuse to allow this, you will not be able to fly.
MK: What about a potential 14-day quarantine upon arrival—is that only for travelers who show signs of COVID-19?
JC: Apart from testing, be prepared for a 14-day quarantine if you show signs of the virus or test positive during a test given at the airport. African countries are determined to ensure the pandemic is eliminated completely from their countries. If you show symptoms of the virus upon your arrival in any country in Africa, you will likely be quarantined for 14 days. This can even entail having to stay in the country instead of returning to the U.S.
MK: Would you say that travel insurance is an imperative?
JC: Make sure your travel insurance company offers COVID-19 coverage and arrange for COVID-19 travel insurance requirements from airlines. You will want to be insured by your travel insurance company for COVID-19 coverage before traveling to any African country. Check with your travel insurance company to ensure COVID-19 is covered under their insurance policy, in the event you need to change your travel plans due to the pandemic. Such coverage policy can protect you by covering expenses related to unexpected changes and/or medical care in the event of illness.
MK: With any trip, but especially now, there can be unforeseen circumstances. Any insights on that front?
JC: DO NOT travel without extra funds and the ability to extend your trip in the event of a quarantine. With the points mentioned above, there is a great likelihood you will be required to spend more time and money in the country to which you are traveling if your COVID-19 test is positive. As a result, it is advisable to travel only if you are prepared with time and financial contingency plans. However, African countries are not barring U.S. travelers at the same rate as other countries, meaning you can potentially realize your dream safari vacation or other adventure across the continent’s beaches, jungles and deserts.
As the world contends with COVID-19 issues, African countries will endeavor to stay open for tourism, business and much more. Preparing for, and abiding by, the region’s travel requirements will make your journey and overall stay in the country more enjoyable and safer for all.
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Hospitality Management
Article | July 18, 2023
Controlling how employees spend company money on travel has been one of the biggest historic challenges for finance teams. Most company spend is governed by purchase orders, with payments made in relation to specific invoices from the company’s own bank. The data is available transparent and can be analyzed to spot any inconsistencies. But controlling travel spend, which is most company’s largest discretionary spend area, is much harder.
Employees increasingly organize their own travel, empowered by corporate self-booking tools for search, booking, and payment. This can help with visibility, particularly if the corporate uses lodge or virtual cards to pay. However, pre-trip spend like air and hotel bookings only represent 50-60% of the money spent on travel. What about the rest?
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Travel Technology
Article | May 5, 2023
Elevate your expertise with these must-read hospitality management books offering a comprehensive guide to enhance your skills, providing industry trends-related insights and live cases & examples.
In the constantly evolving hospitality industry, professionals must stay abreast of the latest trends and insights. Whether you are an industry veteran, an aspiring hospitality worker, or a student pursuing a degree in hospitality management, the right books can provide you with valuable knowledge and direction. The growth of the hospitality industry on a global scale has led to the emergence of a wide range of exceptional books that cover various topics. These include digital marketing strategy, e-commerce tourism, personal experiences, practical advice, and in-depth industry analysis. This curated selection of ten top books on hospitality management offers valuable insights into the industry, allowing you to stay ahead of the curve and enhance your expertise in the field.
1. Unreasonable Hospitality
Author Name: Will Guidara
For professionals in the hospitality and tourism sector looking to advance their knowledge of hospitality management, the book Unreasonable Hospitality: The Extraordinary Power of Giving People More Than They Expect is a must-read. One of the books on hospitality management written by Will Guidara, a former co-owner of the famous eatery Eleven Madison Park, it imparts essential lessons and insights from his journey to turn the struggling business into the world's best restaurant. Guidara emphasizes the transformative power of going above and beyond anticipation through extreme alterations, a strong collaboration between the kitchen and dining room, and remarkable, personalized kindness experiences. This national bestseller book encourages readers to discover the wonder in their work and produce incredible experiences for others with its captivating anecdotes and industry experts' wisdom.
2. Be Our Guest: Revised and Updated Edition
Author Name: Theodore B. Kinni
Be Our Guest: Revised and Updated Edition: Perfecting the Art of Customer Service (The Disney Institute Leadership Series) is one of the essential hospitality management books for industry professionals seeking to improve their customer service skills. Based on the renowned Disney methodology, this book emphasizes exceeding customer expectations beyond mere satisfaction. The book reveals exceptional business strategies that underpin the enchantment of quality service, using insights not typically found in conventional workplaces. Whether one works in hotels, restaurants, or any other hospitality-related industry, reading this book on hospitality management will help envision new opportunities and provide techniques for exceptional customer experiences. In addition, Kinni has published twenty books on topics covering sales, marketing and leadership, targeting hospitality management as the focused audience.
3. First Class Travel on a Budget: How to Hack Your Credit Cards to Book Incredible Trips for Less
Author Name: Zachary Abel
Discover the secrets for five-star vacation on a specific back pocket budget with "First Class Travel on a Budget: How to Hack Your Credit Cards to Book Incredible Trips for Less." In this insightful guide, Zachary Burr Abel shares his expertise in navigating airline loyalty programs, credit card promotions, and hidden travel fees. With actionable advice and humorous anecdotes, reading this hospitality and tourism management book will help professionals learn how to fly first class, find deals on rental cars and hotels, earn airline points, and maximize credit card rewards. This invaluable resource is a must-read for anyone in the hospitality industry looking to elevate their expertise in managing travel and providing exceptional guest experiences.
4. Hospitality Management People Skills and Manners On and Off the Job
Author Name: Lyn Pont PhD
For professionals seeking to start their career or improve their career in hospitality, one of the must-reads hotel management books by Pont is Hospitality Management: People Skills and Manners On and Off the Job. This hospitality book covers various topics, including service, relationships, integrity, communication, personal image, and creativity. Focusing on soft skills and the cultural expectations of guests, Pont provides practical advice and industry insights to help readers excel in their careers. Whether you're a seasoned executive or new to the industry, this treasure trove of information will equip you with the necessary tools to deliver exceptional customer care, represent your organization with professionalism and confidence as well as help you to stand out in the competitive hospitality industry.
5. Strategic Management for Tourism, Hospitality and Events
Author Name: Nigel G. Evans
Strategic Management for Tourism, Hospitality and Events is a comprehensive guide designed to equip students in the hospitality industry with essential strategic management principles. This exceptional book bridges the gap between theory and practical through industry-based case studies and examples, offering a deeper understanding of strategic management in the context of tourism, hospitality, and events. The third edition of this book features updated international case studies covering SMEs and large-scale businesses integrated throughout to show the various applications of strategic management theory, big data, artificial intelligence, sustainability, and innovation. With accessible language and helpful features, this resource is a valuable tool for students seeking to enhance their knowledge and excel in the dynamic field of tourism, hospitality, and events management.
6. Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business
Author Name: Danny Meyer
One of the bestselling hospitality and tourism management books, Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business, is a book by Danny Meyer, an acclaimed restaurateur behind successful ventures like Union Square Cafe and Shake Shack. Meyer shares his invaluable insights on developing a dynamic philosophy called Enlightened Hospitality, which focuses on fostering strong relationships within the organization and delivering exceptional customer satisfaction. It is one of the influential hospitality management books that draws from real-life experiences and teachings applicable to anyone in the hospitality industry or any business sector. This motivational work, considered a landmark in the field, provides valuable lessons for managers, executives, and staff, enhancing their effectiveness and deepening their appreciation for achieving excellence in their work to improve hospitality experience.
7. Operations Management in the Hospitality Industry
Editor Name: Peter Szende, Alec N. Dalton (Editor), Michelle (Myongjee) Yoo
To improve operations and enhance hospitality management expertise, the book titled ‘Operations Management in the Hospitality Industry’ is an essential resource for the tourism and hospitality experts. This book covers various topics crucial to operational success in restaurants, resorts, and other hospitality establishments, as well as equips readers with fundamental techniques and tools for analyzing and improving operational capabilities. With its comprehensive approach, incorporating key theories, frameworks, and industry examples, the book offers valuable knowledge for students preparing for their careers and working professionals.
8. Event Management for the Tourism and Hospitality
Author Name: Bonita M. Kolb
If you are looking for a comprehensive guide, Event Management for the Tourism and Hospitality Industries is a book designed to equip readers and practitioners in the hospitality industry with the essential knowledge and skills for planning, managing, and evaluating events. This book covers various topics, including visitor segmentation, budgeting, promotion, and post-event assessment, while addressing contemporary issues such as environmental sustainability, cultural diversity, technology, and community engagement. Through international case studies, readers will gain real-world insights and learn how to connect events with local heritage and culture, delivering personalized experiences to visitors. It is one of the best hospitality management books that includes a practical approach and detailed event plan outline.
9. Tourism Management
Author Name: Stephen J. Page
One of the best books for hospitality management and tourism by Stephen Page, Tourism Management provides a thorough understanding of the fundamental principles of tourism. Currently in the 6th edition the book offers a global perspective on the industry, and will not only benefit students pursuing a degree, diploma, or simply studying the subject, but it will also help professionals in the tourism industry. This book includes content on contemporary issues affecting businesses, enhanced sustainable development strategies to overcome climate change challenges, and a section with different perspectives from China and South America on using taxation to limit travel air behaviour. Furthermore, it combines textual content and features case studies with diagrams, and images, offering valuable insights into the evolving landscape of tourism management.
10. Hospitality Management: A Brief Introduction
Author Name: Roy C Wood
An easy-to-operate introduction for students of hotel and hospitality management and hospitality studies, Hospitality Management: A Brief Introduction offers a concise and comprehensive overview of the hospitality industry, making it an essential read for students new to the industry. Authored by Roy Wood, an expert in academia and practice, this book covers key areas such as employee relations, accommodation and food management, marketing and sales, industry strategy, management roles, education, and future trends. By drawing on a range of established research and incorporating the perspective of the hospitality consumer, Wood provides readers with a well-rounded understanding of the industry's realities and challenges. This book is a valuable resource for anyone studying or working in hospitality management.
Summing Up
The hospitality industry is transforming rapidly, driven by technological advancements, changing consumer expectations, and emerging trends. As we look to the future, hospitality professionals must proactively stay ahead of the curve and elevate their expertise. These hospitality industry books empower readers to navigate the evolving landscape, embracing innovative practices and sustainability and delivering exceptional guest experiences. By advancing their knowledge and embracing essential insights and strategies, hospitality professionals can position themselves for success in the dynamic world of hospitality management operations.
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Hospitality Management
Article | June 19, 2023
Discover the future of travel at the Hospitality Management events. Upcoming hospitality conferences 2023 & 2024 will have experts share insights about the rapidly evolving hospitality industry.
Warehousing and distribution play crucial roles in the logistics industry. To enhance the expertise and gain a competitive edge, professionals must attend logistics conferences in 2023, including the Supply Chain Management and warehousing conferences and events. These gatherings offer a platform for industry leaders to exchange ideas, learn from experts, and explore the latest advancements.
The following warehousing conferences and events will provide tailored discussions on warehouse optimization, inventory management, and process improvement.
1. PRSA Travel and Tourism 2023 Section Conference
June 20-23, 2023 | Madison (Wisconsin)
The PRSA Travel and Tourism Conference, presented by the PRSA's Travel Media, the global media network, will be held in June this year at the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center in Madison, WI. This annual conference will bring together industry professionals to address evolving media and public relations changes. With notable speakers like Amy Alipio and Kelly Barbrey, attendees can gather timely strategies, resources, and diverse perspectives to excel in hospitality, tourism, and event management. Media and professional development experts, including esteemed speakers such as Amy Alipio, Kelly Barbrey, Casey Barks, Andrea Braustein, and Tykesha S. Burton, will impart their insights and expertise, providing attendees with timely strategies, resources, and diverse perspectives.
2. HITEC: The Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference
June 26-29, 2023 | Toronto (Canada)
HITEC is one of the leading hospitality conferences for tourism and hospitality industry leaders. HITEC showcases cutting-edge technology tools that support the breadth of hospitality operations. With an unparalleled education program curated by top industry experts, attendees gain invaluable insights about the latest travel technology and solutions. Notable speakers such as Shawn Kanungo, Amandeep Sarna, Bharat Patel, Frank Wolfe, and Michael Levie will share their expertise, enhancing attendees' knowledge in hospitality management and tourism hospitality. HITEC 2023 promises to be a transformative experience for professionals seeking to stay at the forefront of the hospitality industry.
3. The Hospitality Show
June 27-29, 2023 | Las Vegas (US)
The Hospitality Show is an exciting new addition to hospitality conferences that aims to bring together the entire tourism and hospitality industry with a shared goal of optimizing hotel operations for efficiency and profitability. With a focus on networking opportunities, industry leaders, senior executives, hotel brands, owners, operators, management companies, developers, investors, and technology partners will convene at this one-stop shop for collaboration. The show boasts an impressive lineup of speakers, including Kat Cole, Adm. William H. McRaven, Anthony Capuano, and Larry Cuculic, who will provide valuable insights and expertise about hospitality management.
4. Hospitality Upgrade’s CIO Summit
September 6-8 2023 | Austin (Texas)
A hospitality management events’, CIO Summit is designed for tourism and hospitality industry leaders. Over two days, this exclusive event will offer a unique blend of networking opportunities, insightful programs, and immersive social events. Participation is limited to top technology leaders from major hotels, casinos, cruise lines, management companies, and timeshare companies, ensuring a small peer networking experience. With its successful track record since its launch in 2002, the CIO Summit has become a prominent gathering for over 400 hospitality CIOs. Notable speakers such as Greg Duff, Vaughn Davis, Kelly McGuire and others will share their expertise, providing industry leaders with valuable insights and innovative strategies. For professionals in the hospitality industry, the CIO Summit in 2023 promises will be an invaluable platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and to stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of technology and tourism hospitality.
5. Gartner IT Symposium|Xpo
September 11-13, 2023 | Gold Coast (Australia)
The Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo 2023 conference addresses the needs of CIOs and IT executives in the tourism and hospitality industry. In a time of intense economic and social volatility, organizations in the industry must find innovative ways to drive efficiency, scale productivity, and pioneer new business models. By participating in this global gathering of experts and peers, attendees will gain valuable insights, expert guidance, and real-world examples to shape the future direction of technology in the hospitality industry. Key topics to be covered include business transformation, cybersecurity, AI, customer experience, data analytics, and executive leadership. With esteemed speakers like Holly Ransom and Mathew Luhn, this event will equip industry leaders with the knowledge and tools to navigate the ever-changing technology landscape and drive success in the hospitality industry.
6. Hotel & Hospitality Expo Saudi Arabia
September 10-12, 2023 | Saudi Arabia
The Hotel & Hospitality Expo Saudi Arabia is a highly influential hospitality management events and trade conference that serves as a gateway to explore the future of Saudi Arabia's hospitality industry. With a comprehensive market report, this event will delve into the key trends, industry dynamics, and the development of giga-projects, offering invaluable insights for industry leaders in the tourism and hospitality sector. By attending this expo, professionals can network with leading experts, conduct businesses, and stay updated on the latest industry developments. The event will feature conferences where hospitality leaders can share their expertise and host the prestigious Saudi Hospitality Awards. With participation from numerous local and international brands, the expo will be a valuable platform for professionals to source relevant products and services to enhance their operations in the hospitality industry.
7. Digital Travel Summit
September 12-13, 2023 | South Carolina (US)
The hotel conference and trade event, Hotel & Hospitality Expo Saudi Arabia, plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the hospitality industry in Saudi Arabia. Industry leaders in the tourism and hospitality sector can expect valuable insights from the event's comprehensive market report, which will explore key trends, industry dynamics, and the development of giga-projects. Attending this expo will allow professionals to network with top experts, engage in business opportunities, and stay up-to-date with industry advancements. Additionally, the conference will feature renowned speakers such as Kate Powell, Priya Rajagopal, Steven Paganelli, Derek Schoen, and Andrea Cole, who will share their expertise and contribute to the knowledge exchange. By participating in this event, industry leaders can get access to source relevant products and services to elevate their operations within the hospitality industry.
8. Skift Global Forum
September 26-28, 2023 | New York City (New York)
Skift Global Forum 2023, the flagship global conference on the business of travel, is set to make its return to New York City. This tourism and hospitality conference will offer invaluable insights into the future of the tourism hospitality industry. With a focus on the theme 'Connection in the Age of AI,' the conference will delve into the evolving relationship between generative AI and the travel industry. Notable speakers such as Ariel Cohen, Glenn Fogel, Christopher Nassetta, Jason Calacanis, and Gary Morrison will provide unique perspectives and inspire industry leaders to navigate the dynamic landscape of the hospitality and tourism industry.
9. The Phocuswright Conference
November 13-16, 2024 | Florida (US)
One of the renowned hospitality conferences, Phocuswright Conference, has catalyzed innovation and business growth for over 25 years. It will offer industry leaders an unparalleled platform to immerse themselves in professional development, advocate for innovation, and cultivate talent. The event will further foster valuable connections with an influential and elite group, providing inspiration and insights to drive success in the dynamic landscape of the hospitality and tourism industry. Notably, the conference prioritizes sustainability by fully offsetting the carbon footprint of the entire event, including every attendee. With esteemed speakers such as Timothy Hughes, Tania Platt, Nadim El Manawy, and Mary Li, industry leaders will be able to gain valuable knowledge, expand their networks, and stay ahead of the rapidly evolving hospitality industry.
10. 4th International Conference on Tourism Management and Hospitality
March 01-03, 2024 | Vienna (Austria)
The Hospitality Conference 2024 is known as the International Hospitality and Tourism Management Conference (ICTMH). It is the fourth edition of the conference this year and promises that it will be a gathering of industry leaders, academics, and professionals. Attendees can expect to engage with world-renowned experts who will present their groundbreaking research on critical topics such as customer experience, medical tourism, economic sustainability, ICT and tourism, social media marketing, and tourism law. Notable keynote speakers, including Dr. Hsuan Hsuan Chang, Dr. Kelly La Venture, Prof. Dheeraj Sharma, and Prof. Koustab Ghosh, will provide valuable insights and expertise, ensuring that industry leaders will return the conference equipped with fresh perspectives and ideas to elevate their organizations and shape the future of the hospitality industry.
The hospitality management events and conferences mentioned in the article provide a promising outlook for the future of the tourism and hospitality industry. These gatherings serve as crucial platforms for networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration within the industry. By attending hospitality conferences and hotel conferences, businesses can gain insights into tourism and hospitality management, explore new trends, and learn about innovative strategies for success. These events also focus on tourism and event management, providing valuable opportunities to stay updated on industry developments and form partnerships.
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