Seasoned travellers know it's not a question of if things go wrong, but when. From flight delays to lost luggage, travel is full of unexpected hiccups. (Read about some of the ridiculous reroutings our readers have experienced on page 18.)
In extreme situations, a missed connection could be the least of your worries. And as travel starts to surge again post-pandemic, so too do the risks. International SOS recorded a 16 per cent increase in security and medical alerts issued in 2023 compared to 2022.
Michael Rogers, chief security analyst at International SOS, says: "The resurgence in global travel comes at a time in which the travel security landscape is increasingly complicated by geopolitical events, natural disasters, emerging diseases, social unrest and evolving crime dynamics. Today, more than ever, travellers need to remain informed of prevailing risks and mitigation measures."
Risk and security management companies act as both morbid fortune teller and guardian angel. Analysts pore over forecasts and trends to assess existing and emerging risks, and create strategies to mitigate against these threats and enable business travellers to get their jobs done. Should things hit the fan, they are also poised to execute emergency protocols that cover everything from hostage situations to volcano eruptions.
Saskia Veldhuizen, senior security coordinator at international risk management firm Healix, explains: "Our job is different every day. One day we might be providing intelligence reports on political elections, the next day we're conducting full-scale evacuations from Khartoum or dealing with a kidnapping in Haiti."
BE PREPARED
This story is from the March 2024 edition of Business Traveller UK.
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This story is from the March 2024 edition of Business Traveller UK.
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Pan Pacific Orchard, Singapore
BACKGROUND This biophilic property opened in June 2023 and is the second Pan Pacific hotel in the city, the other being the Pan Pacific Singapore. The hotel is a member of the Green Collection within the GHA Discovery loyalty programme. It is BCA Green Mark Platinum-certified for its sustainability credentials.
The Hoxton, Lloyd Amsterdam
BACKGROUND The Hoxton brand debuted in London's Shoreditch in 2006 and is part of Ennismore, in which Accor holds a majority stake. The brand has 16 properties across Europe and North America, including two in Amsterdam - the first opened in 2015 in the city centre, followed by this property in the Eastern Docklands in August 2023.
Ruby Zoe, London
BACKGROUND Germany's Ruby Hotels launched in 2013, and operates 17 properties in locations including Amsterdam, Dublin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Zurich.
London Hilton on Park Lane
BACKGROUND The London Hilton on Park Lane opened in 1963 - the first Hilton property in the UK. To celebrate its 60th anniversary last year, the hotel embarked on an extensive multi-million pound refurbishment led by the GA Group.
Philippine Airlines A321 business class SINGAPORE-MANILA
BACKGROUND Philippine Airlines operates flights from Singapore Changi Airport to Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport, using A321ceo aircraft, which stands for 'current engine option, indicating an older aircraft than the A321neo. My flight (PR502) was a morning departure at 1035, arriving 1425 local time in Manila.
Lima
Peru's coastal capital boasts colourful public parks, striking street art and generous plates of ceviche
The inside scoop
We chat to the president of luxury hotel and restaurant association Relais & Châteaux, which marks its 70th anniversary this month
Why business isn't better
Our 'columnist' this month explains why they believe economy class reigns supreme over business class
Here be dragons
For a city known for its densely packed streets and hectic pace of life, Hong Kong has a truly remarkable countryside
Provincial Provence
As Terre Blanche marks its 20th anniversary, we experience the resort's golfing and spa facilities as well as Michelin-starred food and blush rosé
