01
December
2021
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17:03
Europe/London

LOTUS CLIENTS' NEWS, TRENDS AND NEW OPENINGS FOR 2022

Using insights from the UK Travel Intelligence Report and updates from LOTUS clients, we predict that trends for 2022 will centre on sustainable travel, luxury travel and gastronomy.  

As the industry looks to build back better after the pandemic, sustainability will be particularly important, with both operators and destinations looking to encourage responsible travel in 2022. From a consumer’s perspective, luxury travel and gastronomy look to be popular. As holidaymakers prepare for their first trips back into normalcy, bookings show that many are looking to travel more extravagantly than before to compensate for lost time due to international restrictions.  

Here is our compilation of LOTUS’ client news for 2022.  

 

 

 

 

 

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL 

Insight from the UK Travel Intelligence Report, owned by LOTUS and powered by Travellyze reveals that 50% of UK travellers are greatly concerned about the environment and sustainability. 50% of UK travellers are also concerned about minimizing their carbon footprint, whilst 47.6% revealed they would like to visit a clean destination.

 

LATA pledges 2022 Year of Biodiversity 

The Latin America Travel Association, in partnership with Animondial, has declared 2022 its year of biodiversity, a year-long campaign celebrating Latin America’s rich biodiversity and the value of protecting it. Working with ministers and members alike, the Latin American travel & tourism sector is looking to end unsustainable practices, lessen climate change, and safeguard the region’s huge biodiversity and natural assets. To that end, the LATA Community is joining the global movement to protect at least 30% of the world’s land and oceans by 2030 (the 30x30 target), inform and empower Latin America travel & tourism, and help shape it as a key solution (a force for good) to the global crises. LATA aims to raise support and recognises that the tourism sector will be key for positive change, counterbalancing its unavoidable impacts with widespread direct and indirect benefits. https://www.lata.travel/ 

 

Discover Italy on a tour through the Apennines 

With sustainability at the forefront of travel, and people looking to Build Back Better, Exodus has launched a new rewilding tour in the Italian Apennines. This visits the area that Exodus has committed to rewild – 100 sq. m will be rewilded for every passenger that books any Exodus trip. This is a part of their pledge to become Nature Net Positive by 2024, which was announced in September 2021. Rewilding in the Italian Apennines is a new walking tour for 2022 that visits the area that Exodus Travels is rewilding in partnership with Rewilding Europe through the Nature and Carbon Corridors project. The process of rewilding helps restore nature’s ecosystems and biodiversity, for wildlife to return and thrive, whilst also combatting climate change by increasing the land’s ability to absorb carbon.

Exodus Travels’ new six-day Rewilding the Apennines tour is from £2,099 per person departing on 9 July 2022 and 3 September 2022 and includes flights, transfers, breakfast, and some other meals. An expert naturalist guide will accompany the tour throughout. https://www.exodus.co.uk/italy-holidays/walking-trekking/rewilding-apennines/tir 

 

Community-led tourism in Costa Rica 

Costa Rica was awarded one of Prince William’s first Earthshot prizes to recognise the country’s conservation and sustainability efforts. 20 years ago, Exodus was the first UK company to bring guests to the Esquinas Rainforest Lodge in the south of Costa Rica, which is one of the country’s only 100% carbon neutral lodges. In the 1990s a group of local farmers saved the Piedras Blancas National Park from being exploited and constructed the lodge to help guarantee its future. They have bought and protected over 14,000 hectares of primary jungle. Visitors at the Esquinas Lodge can purchase an “Adopt-a-Tree” certificate. This donation is given to La Gamba Field Station and research institution, to help plant trees and purchase land. The lodge is also integrally connected with the people of La Gamba, employing all of their workers locally and reinvesting the profits they’ve made at the Esquinas Rainforest Lodge back into community, contributing more than $200,000 for community-based projects, including renovating La Gamba’s water system, community town hall and schools, as well as the construction of a playground and police station. https://www.exodus.co.uk/costa-rica-holidays/wildlife/discover-costa-rica/wuc 

 

Tallinn is announced as the Green Capital of Europe for 2023 

According to the European Environment Agency, Tallinn ranks fourth in Europe in terms of the quality of urban air and has been announced as the Green Capital of Europe for 2023. The city has been committed to enforcing sustainable measures, including introducing quiet, pedestrianised areas and improving drinking water quality. https://www.visittallinn.ee/eng/visitor/news/31953/tallinn-announced-as-the-european-green-capital-of-2023 

 

VisitGuernsey launches new walking app to encourage visitors to explore on foot 

To get the most out of their island experience, visitors to The Islands of Guernsey will be able to download a free app, which will include comprehensive walking guides and maps. Launching in early 2022, the app will include a series of walks around different areas of Guernsey, many of which will be themed, so that walkers can delve further into Guernsey’s history, culture and folklore. The routes will include information regarding the distance, estimated time of each itinerary, the gradient and difficulty level as well as suitable bus routes. Shops, cafes, restaurants and toilets will also be marked along with special offers at participating places. www.visitguernsey.com 

 

Exciting new green experiences with ToursByLocals in 2022 

Online global platform ToursByLocals look forward to welcoming more inquisitive travellers in 2022 with a range of new and exciting tours including three sustainability-focused lead walks. These include an eco-adventure on the Amalfi Coast with hiking, snorkeling and kayaking, a zero-impact day spent at Lake Bled with electric vehicles and farm-to-table cuisine and a walking tour around Copenhagen’s most sustainable district with up-cycled buildings. All of these unique tours are led by an expert local guide and can tailor their tour to the needs and desires of travellers. 

As well as these new additions, there are also a number of other pre-existing tours that continue to welcome groups in a sustainable manner. Through engaging with locals and empowering and employing local guides, a ToursByLocals tour can preserve the rich local traditions and create a culture of awareness. Likewise, purchasing locally made products, souvenirs and food supports the development of the local economy, as does visit lesser-known neighbourhoods and pockets of the island. https://www.toursbylocals.com/  

LUXURY TRAVEL 

Riviera Nayarit consolidates its position as Mexico’s new luxury destination 

Riviera Nayarit has emerged as the new capital of luxury on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, following the surge of magnificent luxury resorts and ultra-exclusive boutique hotels that have recently opened. More than $5 billion has been invested into the hotel scene of Riviera Nayarit in the past few years with big names such as Conrad Punta de Mita, followed by the One&Only Mandarina, Dreams Bahia Mita Surf & Spa, Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort and the world’s first all-inclusive Delta Hotels by Marriott.

Among the hotel companies with plans to open resorts soon in the idyllic coastal location of Riviera Nayarit, are Auberge Resorts Collection, which will open the 59-suite resort Susurros del Corazon, followed closely by a Fairmont and Ritz-Carlton Reserve luxury resort in the community of Costa Canuva. These impressive resorts have their doors open and ready to welcome indulgent travellers in2022 to experience Riviera Nayarit’s eclectic charm whilst surrounded by luxurious hospitality.

Furthermore, one of the most anticipated collection of new attractions in Riviera Nayarit will be open to travellers in 2022. These are the Marias Islands, located about 60 miles off the coast. The archipelago consists of four islands, one of which was a prison until 2019 and has since been renovated to become an education centre in biodiversity following its closure. The islands were declared a UNESCO Biosphere Preserve and are in the process of developing responsible day tours which will depart from San Blas in Riviera Nayarit and will last about three hours.

 

Lake Como proves to be a popular destination for 2022 

Bookings show that customers are looking to treat themselves in 2022. Lake view rooms at Lake Como are already hard to secure for the summer and luxury hotels are being booked further in advance than pre-pandemic. Travelling by train around Italy is popular as customers look for slower and more sustainable ways to travel with Rome and Sorrento being Citalia’s most popular twin-centre rail combination. Citalia has a ten-night twin centre staying three nights at the Piccadilly in Rome and seven nights at the Gardenia in Sorrento is priced from £1,149 per person with flights, transfers, and breakfast daily. www.citalia.com 

For 2022, Citalia has expanded its already popular range of holidays in Calabria. This is Italy for those looking for wild beaches, rugged, breathtaking rural scenery, historical monuments and authentic, sleepy villages and towns. Calabria is off the well-trodden tourist map and perfect for those who are looking for undiscovered Italy. Citalia has a seven-night holiday to Ricardi staying at the Baia del Sole is priced from £999 per person with flights, transfers and breakfast daily. www.citalia.co.uk 

 

All-inclusive bookings increase for summer 2022 

With many families having been unable to travel together for the past two years, bookings for summer 2022 are already performing strongly for Sovereign as people finally feel confident to plan further ahead. 30% more bookings have been made against the same point in 2019 showing that customers want to be able to take their long-awaited holidays to spend time with their loved ones. Customers are treating themselves to all-inclusive options or upgraded rooms with Greece, the Balearics and Canary Islands looking popular. IKOS Andalusia opened in September 2021 and advance bookings for early spring are strong with the hotel performing well in the Spanish portfolio from the brand. The adults-only Domes Miramare, another new opening, is a popular choice for 2022 among couples looking to treat themselves to time away from their children.

Sovereign has a seven night stay at Domes of Corfu from £710 per person with flights, transfers and breakfast daily. www.sovereign.com 

 

Skiing away from crowded resorts 

Headwater has reported that customers are booking their trips with much greater confidence for 2022, booking ahead to the summer months. Whilst the UK tours remain popular, destinations that were popular pre-Covid such as Italy, Portugal, France and Norway are seeing numbers returning. Headwater’s holidays are mostly self-guided meaning that customers can explore a destination at their own pace and this allows them to get away from busier sites and scenic hotspots.

Headwater’s cross-country skiing trip to Venabu in Norway is one of the most popular for the winter months, as customers look to get their snow fix again, but away from more crowded Alpine resorts. Winter demand is returning quickly with bookings likely to exceed pre-covid levels and availability selling out fast.

Headwater’s seven-night cross-country skiing trip to Venabu, which includes five days’ tuition and ski hire, is priced from £1,689 per person with flights, transfers and full-board accommodation. www.headwater.com 

GASTRONOMY 

Insight from the UK Travel Intelligence Report, owned by LOTUS and powered by Travellyze reveals that 43.3% of UK travellers are looking for exciting food experiences. 50% of UK travellers are also looking for a fine dining experience, whilst 41.4% of people are greatly concerned about health and hygiene standards.

 

Menorca Prepares for European Region of Gastronomy for 2022 

Menorca has been named the European Region of Gastronomy for 2022 by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism. The European Region of Gastronomy project aims to promote local products and cuisine in accordance with the principles of sustainable development and has recognised Menorca’s efforts to enrich and support its own gastronomic heritage and cultural diversity. Menorca aims to consolidate its position as a leading food destination worldwide. Next year, Menorca will host an array of gastronomic events and festivals ahead of being the European Region of Gastronomy in 2022.

 

Tallinn emerges as a centre of fine dining 

Visitors are drawn to Tallinn for its enticing array of seasonal dishes. Centered around ingredients sourced by local producers, and ingredients foraged for in the nearby forestland, Tallinn’s fine-dining restaurants celebrate the very best of Estonia. Evoking the landscape of the country through its food, the chefs typically synthesize traditional Estonian elements with modern European techniques. International and fusion gourmet food can be enjoyed very inexpensively in Estonia, making this a desired destination for foodies. A true five-course gourmet feast in Tallinn can cost half the price of a dinner you'd get in most European capitals.

 

Sanlúcar de Barrameda desginated Spain's Capital of Gastronomy for 2022

The Andalucían city of Sanlúcar de Barrameda, located in the west of the Cádiz province, will hold the title of Spanish Capital of Gastronomy for 2022 providing food lovers with the opportunity to explore one of Andalucía’s most coveted gastronomic destinations. The city will run several events to celebrate this special announcement inviting visitors and residents to enjoy Sanlúcar’s delicious cuisine and unique wine. This programme seeks to showcase the region highlighting its high standards of quality-of-life thanks to its geographical location and climate, which provide a world-class sun and beach proposition for visitors. The city is rich with natural resources thanks to its proximity to the Guadalquivir River and the natural reserve of the Doñana National Park, which are both an inspiration for the city’s food culture and the legendary horse races that take place on a long stretch of beach in August. Sanlúcar’s king prawns and the Manzanilla wine (from the heart of the Jerez Region) are some of the gastronomic treasures of the area but the celebration is also an invitation for visitors to try other traditional dishes like Arroz con Pato (Rice with Duck) or Acedias and tapaculos (two of the city’s most famous fish). Huelva (2017), Leon (2018), Almeria (2019) and the region of Murcia (2020 and 2021) are among the Spanish cities that have previously held this annual award since its first edition in 2012. https://www.andalucia.org/en/sanlucar-de-barrameda

ART, CULTURE & HISTORY 

Tallinn is announced as the host of 2022 European Design Festival 

In 2022, Tallinn will host the European Design Festival. Located in Estonia for the first time, the festival celebrates the best in European design and promotes the discipline to a wider audience. As Tallinn emerges as a hub of creative activity, the festival offers visits a further reason to explore the artistic side of Estonia. The Design Festival is part of a growing contemporary art scene in Tallinn, led by Telliskivi Creative City, the former industrial complex. Once a factory area, Telliskivi has been regenerated ançd is now the largest creative centre in Estonia, popular with locals and tourists alike. Famous for its array of vibrant, and often thought-provoking, street art, Telliskivi offers a bohemian area to shop, work, dine and socialise.

 

Valencia assumes role as World Design Capital 2022 

The jury of the World Design Organisation (WDO) has recently announced that Valencia is to be granted the very prestigious title of World Design Capital 2022. This is the first time a Spanish city has received this accreditation and the declaration will allow the city to demonstrate its potential through its designers and companies.

The “unanimous” decision from the WDO was based upon “the precision, rigor and professionalism” of Valencia’s candidature. Xavi Calvo, strategic co-director of the candidacy for Valencia, believes that design will ‘accelerate the processes of social transformation’ and hopes to embrace the opportunity fully. They have provided a plan and itinerary for their proposed projects that includes everything from industrial designs to stunning architecture. Every month there will be one of four types of events taking place based upon a new theme: exhibitions, congresses, workshops and conferences. The content of these events will be centred around pressing topics such as climate change, Mediterranean design, gender equality in design, the history of design, industrial development, design and nature, among others.

 

100th Anniversary of the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb 

2022 is the 100th anniversary of the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun and will also hopefully see the opening of the much anticipated – and delayed – Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza. As one of the largest and most iconic wonders of the world Egypt is a “must visit” travel destination. A Nile cruise is one of the most popular ways to explore the country but having an expert Egyptologist is what brings it to life. New for 2022 is a 13-day tour of Egypt led by renowned explorer, filmmaker, photographer and RCGS Explorer-in-Residence, George Kourounis. The trip travels the country from Alexandria to Abu Simbel and includes a sleeper train from Cairo to Aswan as well as a three-night cruise from Aswan to Luxur.

Exodus Travels’ 13-day Alexandria to Aswan tour with George Kourounis is priced from £2,069 per person excluding international flights. https://www.exodus.co.uk/egypt-holidays/culture/rcgs-egypt-alexandria-aswan-george-kourounis/aeds#itinerary 

 

Italy’s Capital of Culture 2022 

Procida is a little-known island between Ischia and Naples on the mainland, has been named Italy’s Capital of Culture in 2022, the first island to receive the accolade. Arranged on a steep cliff side, Corricella – the island’s 17th-century port and main town – is a mass of colour, with charming houses stacking up to a glorious golden church high above the sea. Citalia recommends visiting Procida as a day trip from Ischia. Ferry tickets can be purchased locally. https://www.citalia.com/holidays/italy/campania/ischia/visit-procida/ 

 

Brazil to celebrate its 200th anniversary of independence 

Brazil will be celebrating the 200th anniversary of its independence from Portugal in 2022, with independence having been proclaimed in September 1822. Throughout the year, there will be air shows, parades, firework displays, concerts and exhibitions to recognise and celebrate the significant anniversary. The festivities will be especially grand in Rio where most of the historical events took place and September 7th, Independence Day, will be the highlight of the celebration.

Exodus Travels offers an 11-day trip to Brazil, Land of the Jaguar priced from £5,399pp and includes return flights, all B&B accommodation, seven lunches, seven dinners, all transport and listed activities and tour leaders throughout.

NEW OPENINGS

Despite travel restrictions affecting the past 18 months for hotels, many groups are opening new properties in 2022. In addition to this, many destinations are undergoing further developments, spurred on by the reopening of international travel.

 

HOTELS 

Brand New TRS Ibiza Hotel to Launch in 2022 

Palladium Hotel Group is set to launch a new adults-only luxury property TRS Ibiza Hotel in spring/ summer 2022. The 5 star, adults-only luxury hotel will be located right on the beach, close to San Antonio alongside Cala Gració and Cala Gracioneta, two beautiful coves known for their crystal clear waters and fringed by Mediterranean plant life.

Featuring a contemporary Mediterranean design and will offer TRS’ "infinite indulgence" package which is an enhanced all-inclusive service with premium brands and a butler service amongst many other elements.

 

Cook’s Club to open adults-only hotel in Rhodes 

From next year lovers of Greek-island energy will have one more reason to visit their favourite destination; the new Cook’s Club Ialysos Rhodes, opening in May 2022. The hotel is the brand’s second hotel in Rhodes, after Cook’s Club City Beach Rhodes, and the first new-build Cook’s Club hotel in Greece.

Located in the vibrant, picturesque Ialysos area of Rhodes, a hotspot for water sports on the sandy shores of the island’s north coast, Cook’s Club Ialysos Rhodes fuses the best of local culture with cool vibes, poolside-chic and contemporary architecture. The sleek, innovative design is underlined by wooden furniture, rustic pergolas and woven reed lamps, blurring the boundaries between indoors and outdoors. On-trend, earthy tones have been combined with local materials and textures to create a sanctuary for the senses. Whether chilling out at the pool, enjoying drinks with newly made friends or gearing up for a big night out, guests at Cook’s Club Ialysos Rhodes will always find the right spot to fit their mood.

 

La Casa de la Playa opens in December 2021 

After the successful opening of Hotel Xcaret Arte in July, Grupo Xcaret presents its most recent project, La Casa de la Playa – an exclusive luxury boutique hotel offering guests the comforts of home and the contemporary luxuries of a hotel – opening December 13. Nestled deep in the Mayan jungle in one of the most iconic beaches in the world, the new hotel promises to offer a luxury experience like no other in México.

Designed with sustainability in mind, La Case de la Playa was birthed by the eco-integrated vision of Architect David Quintana, using nature as an essential developmental element to conserve and protect it. The hotel was conceived to be a living sculpture and is designed based on sophisticated stylings to personify Mexico’s pinnacle. The hotel comes alive through its modern design elements, its elegant decor and its dramatic common spaces surrounded by lush greenery.

OTHER OPENINGS 

Britain’s first cruise line to launch in over a decade makes its maiden voyage in April 2022 

With the travel industry being one of the hardest hit areas in the pandemic and a number of travel companies being forced to close their doors, the news of the first British cruise line to launch in over 10 years will be warmly welcomed. After a successful commercial launch last year, Ambassador Cruise Line will finally be welcoming guests aboard their first ship Ambience as it embarks on its debut cruise to Hamburg from London Tilbury (April 6th).

This 4-night expedition allows guests to be part of history as they can be the first to board the ship as it makes its dazzling debut. Guests will revel in a no-fly, premium-value cruise on smaller ship with a cruise line that offers traditional values and a friendly atmosphere. With emphasis on a higher space to guest ratio, passengers enjoy more space to breathe on board. Solo travelers will also enjoy single occupancy cabins at a single supplement against the equivalent twin fare and for sailings of six nights or more, solo guests will also enjoy a welcome cocktail party and organised get-togethers. For more information visit https://www.ambassadorcruiseline.com/ 

 

First direct flight between Ireland and Guernsey launches March 2022 

Guernsey’s airline Aurigny is launching a new route between Dublin and Guernsey in March 2022. It will be the first direct air link between the island of Guernsey and Ireland, opening up the five Islands of Guernsey to the Irish market.

 

Lincoln to Undergo Further Redevelopments 

The City of Lincoln Council is pleased to announce that following committee approval, phase one of the Lincoln Town Funds Programme will be getting underway in early 2022. The multi-million-pound regeneration project will initially focus on improving Lincoln’s Central Market to enable it to meet the demands of a changing high street and to provide the residents of Lincoln, local businesses, and visitors, with an enhanced market offer in the heart of the city centre’s retail area. Renovation work will also be carried out on Lincoln’s Drill Hall – home of the area’s theatre and performing arts.