Smithsonian Institution’s 175th Anniversary

2021 marks the 175th anniversary of The Smithsonian Institution. Based in Washington, DC. The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, with 19 museums and the National Zoo—shaping the future by preserving heritage, discovering new knowledge, and sharing resources with the world.

The Institution was founded in 1846 with funds from the Englishman James Smithson (1765–1829) according to his wishes “under the name of the Smithsonian Institution, an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge.” The majority of museums are located in the US capital with additional facilities in Virginia, Maryland and New York.

The Smithsonian Institution will mark its 175th anniversary by tapping into the spirit of a world fair. Its original site, the Arts & Industries Building, will reopen to the public with FUTURES, an exhibit showcasing prototypes, robots, speculative fiction and new worlds, among other things. The family of museums will also incorporate the anniversary in other ways.

Learn more about Capital Region USA.

Utah Office of Tourism Joins the Global Sustainable Tourism Council

The Utah Office of Tourism has joined the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) as a destination member, becoming one of only four US destinations and one of only five North American destinations to become members with a focus to lead in sustainable tourism practices.

The mission of the Utah Office of Tourism is to elevate life in Utah through responsible tourism marketing, stewardship and development. Marketing activities curate messaging that inspires visitation, supports local businesses and builds the Utah economy. Stewardship ensures visitation statewide is managed and supports the responsible discovery of Utah. Destination development partners with local communities to enhance and develop their visitor economies to benefit both residents and visitors.

“From The Mighty 5® national parks to The Greatest Snow on Earth®, our unparalleled outdoor recreation depends on the thoughtful stewardship of our natural resources,” said Vicki Varela, Managing Director of the Utah Office of Tourism. “Our Red Emerald Strategic Plan strives to continue powerful branding, promote responsible visitation, and help preserve our world-class quality of life for future generations. We are proud to join the Global Sustainable Tourism Council in establishing Utah as an industry leader in responsible visitation to ensure our treasured places remain forever mighty.”

Find out more at www.visitutah.com

British Airways Expands the Use of Digital Travel Health App, VeriFLY to All Inbound International Flights to UK

  • British Airways expands the trial of mobile travel health app, VeriFLY to all inbound international flights to the UK from February 15, optional for all eligible customers
  • British Airways started trials with VeriFLY originally on flights between London and the US during February
  • VeriFLY certifies test certificates and required travel documentation on a personal mobile device
  • British Airways’ parent company, IAG, is also engaged with IATA in the development of its IATA Travel Pass app

In response to tightening border controls by the UK government, British Airways has today announced it intends to increase its trial of the VeriFLY digital health app across all International flights operating into the UK.

The expansion, which will come in to effect from February 15, is designed to help those eligible to travel to navigate the changing entry requirements and facilitate a seamless journey by ensuring customers are ready to fly and have the appropriate documentation in place, before departing for the airport.

The trial is part of the airline’s ongoing work to explore digital health travel wallet and document verification solutions which help customers and support the government in ensuring conformance with the UK’s entry requirements.

Click here for more information.