As the clock strikes midnight around the world, countries usher in the New Year with a tapestry of celebrations, each weaving its unique cultural threads into the global fabric of festivities. From dazzling fireworks to time-honoured traditions, the arrival of 2024 is marked by joy, hope, and the promise of a fresh start in nations far and wide.

Australia and New Zealand: The Pacific’s Early Revelry

The Pacific nations of Kiribati and New Zealand are among the first to welcome the New Year, their celebrations unfolding against the backdrop of stunning landscapes. In Auckland, New Zealand, the iconic Sky Tower becomes a canvas for a spectacular fireworks display, illuminating the night sky and reflecting off the waters of the Harbour Bridge.

Asia: A Symphony of Lights and Tradition

As the earth rotates, Asia becomes the next continent to embrace the New Year. In Tokyo, Japan, the bustling cityscape is bathed in neon lights, with fireworks adding a burst of color to the skyline. Meanwhile, in Beijing, China, the historic Forbidden City provides a majestic backdrop to the celebrations, blending modernity with tradition.

Europe: A Kaleidoscope of Cultures

As the clock ticks towards midnight in European capitals, a kaleidoscope of cultures comes alive. Paris, the City of Lights, transforms into a glittering spectacle with the Eiffel Tower at its center. London’s iconic Big Ben chimes in the New Year, while Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate becomes a focal point for revellers.

In Spain, the streets of Madrid and Barcelona are alive with the rhythm of flamenco and traditional music, creating a festive atmosphere that spills into the early hours. The countdown in Rome is marked by the timeless beauty of ancient landmarks, blending history with contemporary celebration.

The Americas: Times Square Extravaganza and Latin Vibes

The eyes of the world turn to New York City as Times Square hosts one of the most iconic New Year’s Eve celebrations. The famous ball drop, accompanied by a shower of confetti, is a symbol of hope and renewal. Across the United States, cities and towns join the festivities, creating a tapestry of celebrations from coast to coast.

In Latin America, the vibrant spirit of carnival infuses New Year’s celebrations. Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach in Brazil welcomes millions dressed in white, paying homage to the goddess of the sea. The sound of samba and the scent of traditional Brazilian cuisine fill the air as revelers bid farewell to the old and welcome the new.

Oceania: Pacific Islands and Maori Traditions

As the New Year sweeps through the Pacific Islands, nations like Fiji and Samoa join the global celebration. Traditional dances, fire performances, and communal feasts mark the occasion, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the islands.

In New Zealand, the Maori tradition of the haka, a powerful ceremonial dance, is performed, symbolizing unity and strength. The blending of ancient customs with modern celebrations reflects the resilience of indigenous cultures in the face of change.

A Global Tapestry of Hope

As the clock completes its journey around the world, from the Pacific to the Americas, a global tapestry of hope and joy emerges. The celebrations are as diverse as the cultures that participate, yet they share a common thread—a collective yearning for a better tomorrow and a shared moment of optimism as the world steps into the embrace of a New Year.

In this symphony of lights, traditions, and celebrations, people from every corner of the globe unite in the spirit of hope, resilience, and the belief that the 2024 New Year brings with it endless possibilities. As the echoes of fireworks fade and the cheers of revelers subside, the world stands on the cusp of a new chapter, ready to script its story in the pages of 2024.

Venice is to ban loudspeakers in a bid to ease the impact of mass tourism on the Italian city.

The new rules will come into effect from June, according to a statement.

The use of loudspeakers has been banned as they can “generate confusion and disturbances”, it added.

Over-tourism is widely recognised as an urgent issue for the canal city, one of the most visited places in Europe.

Elisabetta Pesce, said the latest policies will be improving the management of groups organised in the historic centre.

The city is just 7.6 sq km (2.7 sq miles) in size. But it hosted almost 13 million tourists in 2019, according to the Italian national statistics institute.

Numbers of visitors may exceed pre-pandemic levels in the coming years.

More and more residents in Venice are choosing to leave, fearing that tourists could overwhelm the historic island city.

According to the most recent update from one of them, Ocio, the number of beds for tourists has risen to more than 50,000. It is exceeding those available to locals.

In July, experts from UNESCO said the city should be added to a list of World Heritage Sites in danger.

This is because, the impact of climate change and mass tourism threaten to cause irreversible changes to it.

The UN cultural body’s experts blamed the Italian authorities for a “lack of strategic vision” to solve the problems faced by one of Italy’s most picturesque cities.

Ultimately, UNESCO did not add Venice to the list.

Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano said UNESCO had recognised attempts to address the island’s problems via an anti-flooding system and by the approval of the entry fee for tourists.

In 2021, large cruise ships could not enter the historic centre of Venice via the Giudecca canal after a ship crashed into a harbour.

Critics had also argued that the ships were causing pollution and eroding the foundations of the city, which suffers from regular flooding.

How have other hotspots dealt with over-tourism?

Venice is not unique among Italian and European hotspots in trying to address problems related to tourism.

In nearby Florence, authorities have banned new Airbnbs and short-term holiday lets in its historic city centre.

In 2019, the Italian capital Rome introduced fines aimed at tourists.

It is for barring men from being shirtless in public, banning so-called “love padlocks” from being attached to bridges and cracking down on messy foods around famous tourist attractions like the Trevi Fountain.

The picturesque fishing village of Portofino, on the Italian Riviera, has brought in no-waiting zones in photogenic spots, with Instagram-happy tourists facing fines of up to €275 (£238) if they linger too long for that perfect selfie.

Away from Italy, Athens in Greece capped visitor numbers at the iconic Acropolis to 20,000 a day, to try to reduce damage to the ancient temple complex.

And in the Austrian Alps, the town of Hallstatt – said to have inspired the setting of Disney film Frozen – has built wooden barriers to block views in popular spots for a lakeside snap, on top of capping the number of tourist buses and cars entering the area.

In a significant recognition of their outstanding contributions to the tourism industry, Jamari Douglas, Vice President of Marketing, PR, and Communications at the Bermuda Tourism Authority, and Donovan White, Director of the Jamaica Tourist Board, have been named among the prestigious 2023 Top 25 Extraordinary Minds by the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI). This accolade places them in the spotlight as industry leaders, and they will be honored at the highly anticipated HSMAI Adrian Awards Celebration scheduled for February 13, 2024, at the New York Marriott Marquis.

The Top 25 Extraordinary Minds accolade is a coveted acknowledgment within the hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors, recognizing exceptional leaders in Sales, Marketing, Revenue Optimization, and Distribution. The award specifically highlights achievements made over the preceding 18 months, reflecting the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the industry.

Selected by a panel of esteemed industry executives, Jamari Douglas and Donovan White have distinguished themselves as high achievers who have demonstrated creativity, innovation, and spearheaded cutting-edge campaigns. Their ability to triumph in challenging situations and lead efforts resulting in dramatic gains for their respective destinations has set them apart as visionaries in the field.

Jamari Douglas, with his role in the Bermuda Tourism Authority, has been instrumental in crafting and implementing effective marketing, public relations, and communication strategies. His innovative approaches have significantly contributed to the success and prominence of Bermuda as a desirable travel destination.

Donovan White, as the Director of the Jamaica Tourist Board, has played a pivotal role in positioning Jamaica as a leading global tourist destination. His strategic leadership and forward-thinking initiatives have not only attracted visitors but have also enhanced Jamaica’s reputation in the competitive tourism landscape.

The recognition of these two leaders as part of the Top 25 Extraordinary Minds underscores the importance of their impact on the industry’s landscape. Their achievements resonate not only within their respective organizations but also contribute to the broader advancement of the tourism sector. As they take the stage at the Adrian Awards Celebration, the spotlight will shine on their accomplishments, inspiring others in the industry to strive for excellence and innovation in the ever-evolving world of travel and tourism.

Starting Jan 1, 2024, MGTO offers free bus service from Hong Kong Airport to Macao, aiming to boost dual-destination tourism and global reach.

Starting January 1, 2024, the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) is initiating an exciting initiative for international and Taiwan region travelers currently in Hong Kong. They are introducing a complimentary bus service directly from Hong Kong International Airport to Macao. This initiative aims to boost travel between Hong Kong and Macao, enhancing the appeal of a dual-destination trip while reaching out to a broader spectrum of global travelers.

Enhancing Travel Between Hong Kong and Macao

The MGTO is collaborating with a bus service provider to offer international and Taiwan visitors, arriving at Hong Kong International Airport, a free direct bus transfer to Macao, beginning January 1, 2024. This initiative is designed to make Macao a more attractive destination for these travelers.

At Hong Kong International Airport, qualifying visitors can head to the dedicated bus service counter, show their travel documents and boarding passes, and provide necessary details to receive complimentary bus tickets to Macao. The service, available throughout the promotion period, allows unlimited use of the free bus transfer. Tickets are issued on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability.

Information and Inquiries about the Bus Service

For more information on the complimentary ticket offer, terms, and reservation services, travelers can contact the bus service provider. Details are available on their website.

Promotional Campaign for the Initiative

To promote this special offer, MGTO and the bus service provider will launch various marketing campaigns both online and offline. These promotions will include social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Line, and Kakao. With a lineup of events planned in Macao, this promotion is expected to attract more international visitors, particularly during festive seasons. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance tourist experiences in Macao, encouraging longer stays and increased spending, under the theme of “tourism plus.”

Various groups of artists from across the country warmly welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he arrived in Ayodhya on Saturday. Inaugurating the redeveloped Ayodhya Dham Railway Station on December 30, he marked this significant event in preparation for the upcoming consecration ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya scheduled for next month.

The Northern Railway reported that the construction of the railway station and the incorporation of new amenities amounted to Rs 241 crore. The redevelopment work, initiated a couple of years ago, has been carried out by RITES (Rail India Technical and Economic Service) Limited, a central public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Railways. The expansion of the Ayodhya railway station aligns with the government’s efforts to facilitate the movement of devotees visiting Ayodhya for the ‘darshan’ of the temple, as well as other passengers. The station is conveniently located within walking distance from the Ram Temple. The three-story railway station building is outfitted with modern features including lifts, escalators, food plazas, shops catering to puja needs, cloakrooms, child care rooms, and waiting halls, reminiscent of facilities found in airports. It will also have a tourist information counter.

Prior to its inauguration, workers were actively engaged in adorning the main central hall of the railway station. The floor boasts intricate stone inlay work, while the roof features a “polycarbonate sheet,” imparting a bluish hue to sections of its high ceiling.

The new station building spans a footprint of 140m x 32.6m. Additionally, an extra front porch measuring 140m x 12m has been incorporated over the drop-off zone, serving to shield passengers from adverse weather conditions.

Chief Public relation Officer of Northern Railway Deepak Kumar said, “”We have constructed waiting halls with an aesthetic appeal on ground the floor as well as on the first floor. The station building shall be ‘accessible for all’ and has got IGBC certification for Green Station Building.”

On Friday, the alteration in visa policy was accepted by the Office for Government Policy Coordination to emphasize the issue related to the shortage of labor in hospitality sector as part of the broader initiations of the country to welcome greater number of international workers in the middle of a dropping birthrate.

As per the government department, non-specialized work visa holders can now be taken at various hotels and other types of housing facilities in provinces like Busan, Seoul, Jeju and Gangwon as cleaners or assistants in kitchen.

The department explained that it will take a decision whether to widen up the strategy to other parts or additional sectors after gathering opinions from workers and employers in 2024.

Also, it added Tajikistan to the list of the partner nations of Korea permitted to transfer workers under the Employment Permit System, through which the companies here can employ people by giving them E-9 visas.

In a recent statement, the department said that Tajikistan has been chosen as the 17th partner country after carrying out assessments. They have decided that the procedure of a transparent system, in which workers are carefully chosen and then trained, is possible as the government and public institutions are to take charge.

Recently in China’s Shanghai and Guangzhou region, the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority has introduced a promotional roadshow, concerning prominent tourism, aviation, and hotel industry.

The promotional roadshow is all set to endorse Bahrain as a well-known tourist destination in international and local markets, improving the contribution of the sector to the gross domestic product in accordance with the tourism plan for 2022-2026 of Kingdom of Bahrain.

The Chief Executive Officer of BETA, Dr. Naser Qaedi, stated that this roadshow event is targeting to promote tourist destinations, draw greater number of East Asian visitors, and help the growth and development of the tourism.

It will throw light on the status and competitiveness of Bahrain as the perfect tourist destination with progressive amenities along with services that meet modern requirements of life.

Also, building partnerships and achieve cooperation agreements were the reason too behind this roadshow.

The roadshow exposed the rising interest from the tourism entities in China to discover the opportunities and products of Bahraini tourism, representing an optimistic image of the tourism of Bahrain among the tourism sector leaders of China, Qaedi said.

This opens up the way for the private sector to start more programs and draw new tourists to the Kingdom, he added.

The ECTAA and GNTO proudly celebrate a year of unprecedented cooperation aimed at fostering sustainable tourism in Greece. Despite various challenges, these organizations have taken the lead in initiatives to elevate Greece as a premier destination while promoting environmental consciousness and sustainable practices in the industry.

Throughout 2023, significant milestones were achieved through the joint efforts of ECTAA and GNTO. Key among these accomplishments were two online roundtables themed “Greening the Greek Experience,” where industry leaders discussed current sustainable measures in Greek tourism.

In a show of commitment, ECTAA and GNTO organized a notable gathering of European travel advisors in Anavyssos. This event delved into pertinent issues such as distribution and the revision of EU legislation on travel packages. It also served as a platform to exchange insights, promote sustainable services, and stress the importance of connecting environmentally conscious suppliers with consumers.

A crucial aspect of this collaboration was the strong support provided to Greek SMEs, nurturing their growth and encouraging the adoption of sustainable practices. This assistance will further develop services prioritizing sustainability, positively impacting local communities and the environment.

Despite challenges posed by forest fires and floods, 2023 witnessed a remarkable resurgence in travel to Greece, nearly reaching pre-COVID levels in both volume and value. This resurgence showcased Greece’s resilience and commitment to providing exceptional experiences for European tourists.

Eric Drésin, speaking for ECTAA, emphasized Greece’s consistent popularity as ECTAA’s preferred destination for three consecutive years. He praised the Greek authorities, particularly GNTO, for their openness in utilizing European travel advisors’ skills and networks. Drésin hinted at future collaborations with new destinations while reaffirming ECTAA’s steadfast support for the Greek tourism industry through HATTA, its Greek member organization, and the broader ECTAA global network.

The collaborative efforts between ECTAA and GNTO not only revitalized the tourism sector but also highlighted the pivotal role of sustainability in Greek authorities’ tourism policy. Both organizations maintain an optimistic outlook, foreseeing sustained growth while stressing the importance of responsible tourism practices for the industry’s future.

New Orleans & Company is taking charge to uphold the local tradition of the Fleur De Lis (FDL) drop this New Year’s Eve. Atop Jax Brewery, the FDL drop will coincide with fireworks over the river showcasing the colors of the visiting Sugar Bowl teams. To enhance the experience, an LED board will feature the countdown and a New Year’s message.

A collaboration among several partners has ensured the continuity of this significant event for both the community and visitors. Corporate Lighting & Audio is overseeing production, while the New Jax Condominium Association has graciously offered the rooftop for the occasion.

Although not as elaborate as previous years, preserving this tradition was paramount for New Orleans & Company, underscoring the city’s unique charm during New Year’s Eve celebrations, which contribute to what makes New Orleans an exceptional place to live, work, and explore.

Walt Leger III, President and CEO of New Orleans & Company, expressed gratitude to partners for upholding this tradition, emphasizing the Fleur De Lis as a symbol synonymous with the city. He highlighted its representation of the resilience of the city’s inhabitants, fostering a thriving culture and economy.

Additionally, this weekend marks the Allstate Sugar Bowl on January 1, featuring a parade on December 31 at 2:30 p.m. through the French Quarter. This year’s Sugar Bowl involves the semifinal game for the 2024 College Football Playoff, featuring the #2 ranked Washington Huskies and the #3 ranked Texas Longhorns at the sold-out Caesars Superdome.

Anticipating a bustling New Year’s Eve weekend, New Orleans & Company is thrilled to sponsor the NewOrleans.com Allstate Sugar Bowl Tailgate Town in partnership with the Sugar Bowl organization. The event, open to all ticket holders, will kick off game day festivities from 4:00-7:00 pm in Champions Square before the 7:45 pm kickoff.

Furthermore, 2024 brings a flurry of activity to New Orleans, starting with the city hosting the Bocuse d’Or and the Pastry World Cup in June. It continues with Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour at the Caesars Superdome and Prospect 6 – a citywide contemporary art triennial, marking the first exhibition of its kind in the U.S. with a decade-long history.

In light of the General Plan for Building a Guangdong-Macao In-depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, which fosters favorable conditions for Macao’s industry diversification, the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) and the Economic Development Bureau of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin have jointly introduced the “Macao–Hengqin Travel Stimulation Program” (“the Program”). Applications for this initiative will be accepted starting from January 1, 2024. The primary objective of the Program is to encourage tourism operators to craft multi-destination travel plans encompassing both Macao and Hengqin. Initially, the focus is on attracting business travelers through group tours to stimulate tourism development in both locations.

Promotion of Incentive Travel in Macao and Hengqin

The Program’s initial phase targets drawing business travelers to Macao and Hengqin for incentive travel pursuits. Entities eligible to apply as organizers, planners, or designated authorities overseeing incentive travel activities in Macao or Hengqin include legally established enterprises registered for tax purposes within these areas, non-profit organizations in either region, and lawfully recognized entities beyond these borders.

Minimum Participants and Stay Requirements

Beneficiaries engaging in incentive travel activities in Macao or Hengqin must involve a minimum of 40 participants who are not residents of Macao or Hengqin. Participants must stay in Macao for a minimum of two consecutive nights and in Hengqin for at least one night.

Assistance for Business Travelers Exploring Local Communities

The Program offers souvenirs and support items in Macao and Hengqin based on the number of participants. Entities applying for support can choose relevant items aligned with their activities. Support items in Macao include tours of The Historic Centre of Macao, authentic gastronomic experiences, cultural performances, business services, gastronomy workshops, and cultural and creative workshops. In Hengqin, these include ecological tours of Xiaohengqin Mountain, Flower Promenade, Mangzhou Wetland Park, visits to the China Red Sandalwood Museum Hengqin Branch, Guangdong cuisine making, and traditional Chinese skills tours. The Program encourages business travelers to explore local communities to invigorate their economies.

Application Pre-Screening Process

Interested entities must complete and submit the “Pre-screening Application Form” to MGTO or the Economic Development Bureau of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin. The pre-screening process takes five working days from the day the completed application form is received. Once the pre-screening is done, the respective offices will notify the entity applicant of the outcome in writing.

Submission of Information Ahead of Activity Commencement

Entities that successfully pass the pre-screening must submit the “Support Items Application Form,” along with all related documents and activity details, to MGTO and/or the Economic Development Bureau at least 15 working days before the activity’s start. Moreover, they must submit an event report within 10 working days after the event concludes.

Quality Management Supervision Mechanism

A supervisory mechanism will be in place for the Program. Applicants are required to furnish MGTO and the Economic Development Bureau with necessary information about incentive travel activities. Additionally, they must authorize and assist authorities’ staff in inspecting ongoing activities on-site.