Ritz-Carlton Herzliya Wins Green Key Award and New Tourism Appointments

The Ritz-Carlton, Herzliya has been awarded the prestigious Green Key international certification for sustainability and environmental responsibility in the hospitality industry. The certification program is operated in Israel by the EcoOcean association, which promotes global environmental standards in the local tourism sector. The hotel received the accreditation following a rigorous and prolonged adaptation process, implementing strict sustainability procedures across all departments. A festive ceremony was held at the hotel to mark the occasion, attended by the mayor of Herzliya, visiting executives from Marriott International, representatives of EcoOcean, and senior figures from the tourism industry.

In other tourism news, Guy Kellner has assumed the position of CEO of the Incoming Tourism Association of Israel, succeeding Yossi Fattal, who is stepping down after an 11-year tenure. Kellner takes over the role during a particularly complex period for incoming tourism, which continues to face severe setbacks and an estimated 70 percent drop in activity compared to pre-war levels since October 2023. Key challenges ahead for the new CEO include rebuilding incoming tourism companies, restoring Israel's position on the global tourism map, re-establishing ties with international tour operators, and regaining market confidence.

Meanwhile, Fattal Hotels has expanded the culinary offerings at The Jaffa Hotel in Tel Aviv-Yafo with the opening of ARC, a new kosher meat chef restaurant led by Chef Amos Hayun. Following the hotel's transition to kosher status in May, the restaurant offers a contemporary interpretation of Israeli-Jaffa cuisine inspired by the local port, markets, and culinary heritage. The restaurant operates in the evenings, featuring a menu that blends local seasonal ingredients with modern cooking techniques.