ΔΙΕΘΝΗΣ ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΗΛΕΚΤΡΟΝΙΚΗ ΕΦΗΜΕΡΙΔΑ ΠΟΙΚΙΛΗΣ ΥΛΗΣ - ΕΔΡΑ: ΑΘΗΝΑ

Ει βούλει καλώς ακούειν, μάθε καλώς λέγειν, μαθών δε καλώς λέγειν, πειρώ καλώς πράττειν, και ούτω καρπώση το καλώς ακούειν. (Επίκτητος)

(Αν θέλεις να σε επαινούν, μάθε πρώτα να λες καλά λόγια, και αφού μάθεις να λες καλά λόγια, να κάνεις καλές πράξεις, και τότε θα ακούς καλά λόγια για εσένα).

Πέμπτη 31 Οκτωβρίου 2013

Qatar Airways joins oneworld


Qatar Airways becomes part of oneworld, adding one of the world’s fastest growing and most highly rated airlines to the world’s fastest growing and most highly rated global airline alliance.

It joins oneworld just one year after receiving its invitation to join, which makes its induction into oneworld one of the fastest in the alliance’s history. A more typical timeline for an airline to comply with the many membership requirements of oneworld is 18-24 months.

For Qatar Airways, joining oneworld marks the latest achievement in its 16-year history.  One of just seven carriers worldwide rated five-star by the Skytrax airline quality agency and the organisation’s Airline of the Year 2011 and 2012 and runner-up 2013, Qatar Airways is the only one of the major Gulf carriers to join any of the global airline alliances. 

Becoming part of oneworld, which holds more “best alliance” awards than any of its competitors, will strengthen Qatar Airways’ competitiveness, enabling it to offer customers an unrivalled alliance global network served by partners that include leading airlines from every region.

Qatar Airways, which serves more than 130 destinations in 70 countries across the Middle East, Europe, Africa, North and South America, Asia and Australasia, is oneworld’s second member airline based in the Middle East.  It makes oneworld the leading alliance in one of the world’s fastest growing regions for air travel demand.

More than 20 of its destinations and five countries – Ethiopia, Iran, Rwanda, Serbia and Tanzania – will be new to the oneworld map. More significantly, Qatar Airways will substantially strengthen the alliance’s customer offering by providing superior routing alternatives across many hundreds of city pairs. For example, passengers flying between Asia and Southern Europe or between Asia and Africa will now have convenient one-stop connections not previously available within the oneworld network.

Worldwide, with the other airlines lining up to join, oneworld will:
Serve almost a thousand airports in more than 150 countries, with 14,000 daily departures.
Carry 475 million passengers a year on a combined fleet of some 3,300 aircraft.
Generate US$ 140 billion annual revenues.
At a ceremony to mark its entry into oneworld, held at Hamad International Airport, which will open soon as Qatar Airways’ new home base, Qatar Airways spectacularly “unveiled” the first aircraft in its fleet to be decorated in a special oneworld livery – with the Boeing 777-300 becoming the first aircraft to “land” at the new airport.

The state-of-the-art US$ 15.5 billion Hamad International Airport is designed to strengthen Doha’s role as a premium global hub. The new airport has an eventual capacity for 50 million passengers a year.

Under the patronage of the Prime Minister of Qatar His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah Bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al-Thani, the ceremony was hosted by Qatar Airways’ Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker and attended by the CEOs and senior executives from all other oneworld member airlines, including:
Chief Executive of IAG, the parent company of oneworld’s British Airways and Iberia and also of Vueling, which is not part of the alliance, Willie Walsh.
oneworld CEO Bruce Ashby.
Finnair’s President and Chief Executive Pekka Vauramo.
Japan Airlines’ Chairman Masaru Onishi.
Malaysia Airlines’ Group CEO Ahmad Jauhari Yahya.
Member elect SriLankan Airlines Chairman Nishantha Wickramasinghe and Chief Executive Kapila Chandrasena.
airberlin’s Senior Vice-President Alliances Stephan Nagel.
American Airlines’ Vice-President Strategic Alliance Kurt Stache.
British Airways’ Director of Strategy and Business Units Lynne Embleton.
Cathay Pacific Airways’ Director of Sales and Marketing Rupert Hogg.
Iberia’s Director of Alliances Antonio Pimentel.
LATAM Airlines Group’s Vice-President Strategic Alliances Soledad Berrios.
Qantas’ Chief Executive Loyalty Lesley Grant.
Royal Jordanian’s Chief Commercial Officer Basma Majali.
S7 Deputy Chief Executive for Strategy Vadim Besperstov.
As they assembled, the 777-300 in its oneworld livery flew overhead before landing and becoming the first aircraft to taxi onto a stand in front of Hamad International Airport’s terminal building. 

Its distinctive design features “oneworld” in blue letters some 6 ft (2 metre) high along a white fuselage and the airline’s standard tailfin, serving as a huge flying billboard highlighting that Qatar Airways is now offering the full range of oneworld services and benefits. The airline will decorate three other aircraft in its fleet in this special livery – another 777 and two Airbus A320s.

They will spearhead a massive marketing drive to promote the airline’s addition to the alliance. Starting tonight, oneworld logos will be applied by the side passenger entrance doors on Qatar Airway’s entire fleet of 130 aircraft as part of a massive rebranding programme that will also see the alliance logo added virtually wherever the Qatar Airways name is displayed – at airport check-in desks and signage, on its website, tickets, boarding passes and all items of stationery.

Qatar Airways’ addition to oneworld tonight will be promoted with of one of the biggest marketing campaigns in the airline’s history, too, with an extensive advertising campaign to highlight the new alliance services and benefits available to its customers.

All cardholders in its Privilege Club frequent flyer programme are being sent new membership cards, bearing the oneworld logo and “gemstone” tier indicator, to ensure they receive their alliance benefits from tomorrow when travelling throughout the entire oneworld global network.

Qatar Airways’ entry into oneworld completes what has been one of the biggest projects in the airline’s history, with working groups covering some 20 streams of activity, bringing its various internal processes and procedures into line with the alliance’s requirements, and running extensive employee training and communications programmes. British Airways has been supporting Qatar Airways through its alliance implementation project, as its oneworld sponsor airline, with backing from the central oneworld team.

Since accepting its invitation to join the alliance a year ago, Qatar Airways has expanded its code-sharing relationships to two established oneworld partners – American Airlines and Malaysia Airlines

‘Double miles’ offer to frequent flyer members to celebrate
The 3 million members of Qatar Airways’ Privilege Club loyalty programme will from midnight tonight enjoy the full range of oneworld frequent flyer benefits when travelling with any oneworld member airline worldwide – airberlin, American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific Airways, Finnair, Iberia, Japan Airlines, LAN Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Qantas, Royal Jordanian, S7 Airlines and their 30 affiliated airlines.  

Privilege members will be able to earn and redeem Qmiles on any oneworld flight. In celebration of the airline’s addition to the alliance, they will receive double Qmiles award miles when flying on Qatar Airways’ oneworld partners between 15 November and 31 January (except between 20 December and 5 January).

Privilege Club members will also receive Qpoints for tier status when flying with all these airlines.
Privilege Club Platinum cardholders will have Emerald status in the oneworld programme. Privilege Club Gold will be equivalent to oneworld Sapphire and Privilege Club Silver will be oneworld Ruby.

From midnight tonight, Privilege Club Platinum and Gold members will be able to access more than 550 airport lounges worldwide offered by oneworld member airlines when they fly with one of the alliance’s carriers – five times more than they can use up until now. Qatar Airways’ First and Business Class passengers will also be able to use oneworld partner airline lounges. 

As oneworld Emeralds, Privilege Club Platinum cardholders will be able to use First Class lounges, where available – and receive an additional baggage allowance and access fast tracks through departure security at select airports.

Also from midnight tonight, the 140 million members of the established oneworld airlines’ frequent flyer programmes will be able to earn and redeem awards and tier status points and receive all other oneworld benefits when flying on Qatar Airways.

To celebrate the addition of the new recruit to oneworld, members of established member airlines’ loyalty programmes will receive double the normal mileage awards when flying on Qatar Airways between 15 November and 31 January (except between 20 December and 5 January).

Latest landmark in oneworld’s biggest yet membership expansion drive
The addition of Qatar Airways represents the latest landmark in oneworld’s biggest membership expansion yet. Other elements elsewhere in the world include:
The addition of Malaysia Airlines, one of this industry’s most frequent award winners, eight months ago, further strengthening oneworld’s position in South East Asia, one of the fastest growing regions for air travel demand.
The induction on 1 October 2013 of LAN Colombia, the second largest airline in South America’s second biggest economy.
The transition to oneworld on 31 March 2014 by TAM, the leading airline in Latin America’s leading economy, Brazil, with its Paraguayan affiliate to be added soon afterwards.   This will complete the consolidation in oneworld of all the passenger carriers in LATAM Airlines Group, the region’s leading airline company, building on oneworld’s position as the leading global airline alliance serving Latin America.
The introduction early next year of SriLankan Airlines, as the first airline from the Indian subcontinent to join any global alliance, which, with Qatar Airways, will make oneworld the leading alliance in the region.
The proposed switch by US Airways from Star to oneworld as part of its planned merger with American Airlines, subject to necessary approvals.
Qatar Airways’ Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker said: “Alliances are playing an increasingly important role in the airline industry today – and that will continue long into the future. Becoming a member of oneworld is one of the most significant landmarks in Qatar Airways’ history. It will strengthen our competitive offering and give our customers what they fully deserve – more choice across a truly global network served together with airline partners who include some of the best and biggest in the world. 

“In Qatar Airways’ relatively short history, we have quickly established a reputation for innovation, quality and excellence in everything we do.  We are pleased to build on that by becoming the only major airline from the Gulf to join any of the global airline alliances – and we are proud to become part of what is clearly the world’s top quality airline alliance, oneworld.”

IAG Chief Executive Willie Walsh added: “In Qatar Airways, oneworld is pleased to welcome another great airline that enhances the alliance’s network and product offerings in one of the world’s fastest growing regions for air travel demand. Qatar Airways’ excellent reputation for customer service mirrors oneworld’s own focus. British Airways is delighted to have supported Qatar Airways throughout its oneworld joining process and we wish it, its customers and employees a warm welcome on board.”

oneworld Chief Executive Bruce Ashby stated: “oneworld aims to be the first choice alliance for the world’s frequent international travellers – with an unrivalled collection of quality carriers, delivering unmatched benefits to customers and to member airlines alike. Qatar Airways’ addition as our second member airline in the Middle East makes oneworld the leading alliance in what is one of the world’s fastest growing regions for air travel demand.


Holland America Line's ms Noordam to sail Central and Western Mediterranean cruises in 2014


SEATTLE - Holland America Line's ms Noordam will now sail cruises with central and western Mediterranean itineraries in spring and summer 2014. The new itineraries will allow for longer voyages, including the introduction of three new 11-day itineraries with several departures each and numerous Collectors' Voyages up to 33 days.

From April through October 2014, the ship will sail between Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, and Barcelona, Spain, or Venice, Italy. The 11-day itineraries feature a combination of calls in Spain, France, Italy, Malta, Monaco, Tunisia, Greece, Croatia, Montenegro and Turkey. Guests who want a longer vacation can combine two or three back-to-back voyages to form a 22- or 33-day Collectors' Voyage. These extended itineraries offer a more in-depth cruise and allow for extra time ashore to become immersed in the culture and history of the Mediterranean.

"The central and western Mediterranean cruises feature a variety of popular ports in 10 countries so our guests can explore the top highlights of the region," said Richard Meadows, Holland America Line's executive vice president of sales, marketing and guest programs. "For travelers with more time, the different itineraries can be combined into an ultimate Mediterranean cruise experience with few, if any, repeated ports."

Departing April 4, May 18, July 1 and Aug. 14, the "Mediterranean Explorer" voyage sails from Barcelona to Civitavecchia (Rome). The cruise begins with an overnight at Barcelona and continues on to Marseille (Provence), France; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Calvi, Corsica; Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Italy; La Goulette (Tunis), Tunisia, and Palermo and Naples, Italy. The ship sails the reverse itinerary, ending with an overnight at Barcelona, May 7, June 20, Aug. 3 and Oct. 8.

The "Adriatic Dream" itinerary departs April 15, May 29, July 12 and Aug. 25 from Civitavecchia (Rome) and sails to Venice, where guests enjoy an overnight before disembarking. Along the route the ship calls at Messina, Sicily, Italy, after scenic cruising along the Strait of Messina; Valletta, Malta; Argostolion and Kerkira (Corfu), Greece; Kotor, Montenegro, and Dubrovnik, Korcula and Split, Croatia.

The "Mediterranean Dream" cruise departs April 26, June 9, July 23 and Sept. 5 from Venice and sails to Civitavecchia (Rome). This itinerary features six calls throughout the beautiful Greek Isles, including Katakolon (Olympia), Navplion, Piraeus (Athens), Mykonos, Rhodes and Santorini. The ship also calls at Kusadasi, Turkey, home to Ephesus, and Naples, Italy.

The Sept. 16 "Venetian Adventure" voyage sails round-trip Civitavecchia (Rome) with an overnight at Venice mid-voyage. The ship also calls at Messina after scenic cruising along the Strait of Messina, Valletta, Kotor, Split, Dubrovnik and Kerkira (Corfu).

A round-trip Civitavecchia (Rome) "Mediterranean Dream" cruise departs Sept. 27 and calls at Katakolon (Olympia), Navplion, Piraeus (Athens), Mykonos, Kusadasi, Rhodes, Santorini and Naples.

Travelers looking to explore more of the Mediterranean can book a longer Collectors' Voyage that combines two or three of the 11-day cruises. For example, the 33-day "Best of the Mediterranean" cruise departs April 4 and combines the April 4, 15 and 26 departures. The 22-day "Mediterranean and Adriatic Explorer" combines the May 18, 29 and June 9 sailings. Each month through September will offer a combination that features 22- to 33-day Collectors' Voyage options.

The new Noordam itineraries replace the previously published cruises that included Egypt, which was cancelled due to continued unrest in the area

Marriott International expands job partnership for young African women

WASHINGTON - Twenty-four young African women between the ages of 18 and 30 have been selected to participate in the job training partnership in Dubai and Doha launched in 2012 between Marriott International and the Akilah Institute for Women in Kigali, Rwanda. Upon their graduation in December, the new Akilah graduates will join the first group of 17 young women, who began the training program in Marriott hotels in Dubai in the fall of 2012. All will return to Rwanda in 2014 to open Marriott's first hotel in Sub-Saharan Africa, the Kigali Marriott.

Among the new group of employees will be Cecile Musanase and Julian Kankunda, who will speak on October 30 at an event in Washington, D.C., at the Mayflower Renaissance Hotel to celebrate the partnership between Marriott and the Akilah. Also speaking will be U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women's Issues at the U.S. Department of State, Catherine Russell, former World Bank President Robert Zoellick, Akilah CEO and Co-founder Elizabeth Dearborn-Hughes, and Marriott executive Kathleen Matthews.

"Thanks to partnerships like Marriott, Akilah placed 100 percent of our first graduating class in jobs that are building sustainable careers in Africa," said Elizabeth Dearborn-Hughes. "These young women are thriving in their jobs at the hotels in Dubai and Doha, as they learn to become leaders for Marriott's expanding portfolio of hotels in Africa."

"Marriott is committed to investing in all the communities where we build hotels, including Africa," said Kathleen Matthews, Chief Communications and Public Affairs Officer at Marriott International. "The Akilah partnership supports our strategy to serve our world, and meet our employment needs."

As Marriott increases its presence in Africa more than six-fold from ten to 33 hotels by 2018, it anticipates hiring nearly 10,000 employees, the majority of whom will be local residents. "We want promising, local talent to welcome our guests.  We have found some of that talent through our partnership with Akilah," said Gary Dodds, Marriott International's vice president of human resources for the Middle East & Africa, who leads the program. "As part of our commitment to young people in Africa, a partnership like that with Akilah is something we wish to consider at each of our hotel openings including in Ghana and Ethiopia where we have committed to build a hotel." 

Opened in January 2010, Akilah offers a three-year business diploma with a focus in hospitality management, information systems or entrepreneurship. The unique Akilah model emphasizes leadership and communication skills. Akilah works closely with the local private sector to develop market-relevant curricula and to ensure job placement for graduates in the fastest growing sectors of the economy.

The Kigali Marriott Hotel – owned by New Century Development Ltd. - will be the largest hotel in Rwanda at 250 rooms. 

Currently, in Africa, Marriott has ten properties in three countries, including The JW Marriott Hotel Cairo Mirage City in Egypt and the Renaissance Tlemcen in Algeria.  In addition to the Kigali Marriott Hotel, the company has 23 hotels in the Africa pipeline, 10 of which are in Sub-Saharan Africa, including the Accra Marriott Hotel in Ghana (2014), The Ritz-Carlton Reserve Tamuda Bay in Morocco (2014), the Courtyard by Marriott and Marriott Executive Apartment Addis Ababa in Ethiopia (2015), the Librevilla Marriott Hotel in Gabon (2015) and the Contonou Marriott Hotel in Benin (2015). 

New Latin America specialist Miraviva pinpoints stars of region's burgeoning gastronomy scene


Miraviva, the Latin America high-end specialist operator, heralds the coming of age of Latin America as a bone fide gastronomic destination. Founders Marc Eschauzier and Charles Tyler, a former restaurateur, believe that by discovering the culinary riches of the region now, their guests are in the vanguard of a food revolution that extends far beyond the expected menu of beef, beans, ceviche, rice and robust wines.

Discerning travellers to Latin American may already be familiar with the Coffee Triangle of Colombia and the wine regions of Argentina and Chile, the splendour of Argentine beef and the succulence of ceviche, but bespoke Miraviva itineraries ensure that guests will discover there is still much more to the region’s cuisine.

Whether it is savouring a hearty Brazilian ‘feijoada’ (black beans and pork hot pot) or sipping a cup of coca tea to help alleviate altitude sickness in the high Andes, Miraviva guests can be assured that their palate will benefit from the personal experiences of Marc and Charles across eight Latin America countries.

“Discovering the space-age history of quinoa and tasting lupin seeds with a local Peruvian chef, eating giant barnacles, abalone and king crab on the Chilean coast, sipping an exotic Camu Camu juice in the Amazon, and tucking in to an alpaca fillet fresh from the barbeque in the high Andes are among some of the mouth-watering experiences that make Latin America so memorable,” says Marc. “Each of our bespoke itineraries – whether they embrace upscale urban hotels, Amazonian river cruises or indulgent beach breaks – can be tailored to feature local gastronomy”.

The dining scene in Brazil is flourishing, led by the award-winning D.O.M. and Mani in Sao Paolo, the established culinary capital, with the burgeoning gastro districts of Humaita and Botafogo in Rio de Janeiro showcasing young talent such as Felipe Bronze at Oro.  The southern suburbs of Barra de Tijuca and beyond offer more traditional dishes and one restaurant of note, Bira de Guaratiba, may be an adventure to find, but serves some of the best Moqueca in town.

Charles, whose career includes several years managing world-class restaurants, says: “Peru is leading the way in terms of food culture in the region and its ‘Novoandina’ cuisine – the brainchild of chef Gaston Acurio – draws inspiration from the country’s eclectic culinary roots using ingredients from the Andes, the Amazon, the Spanish colonial era and a strong Chinese influence on the coast. Lima now boasts an annual food festival with a global profile, and a number of top restaurants in Brazil, Peru, Argentina and even Colombia are attracting increasing attention from those in gastronomic circles.”

Being in the region on a regular basis enables Marc and Charles to personally vet food and drink experiences and to keep abreast – and ahead – of gastronomic trends. 


Marc concludes: “We meticulously research accommodation and destinations to create bespoke experiences that reflect our guests’ individual preferences and personalities. The very best in food and drink can be placed at the heart of each itinerary and we only recommend restaurants that we’d be happy to dine in ourselves.” 

Passenger growth at MIA continues in third quarter with strong international traffic.

MIAMI - Total passenger traffic at Miami International Airport grew 2.1 percent through September to 30.5 million travelers, powered by a 4.4 percent jump in international traffic to nearly 15.2 million passengers. The number of domestic travelers increased to 15.3 million passengers through September, equal to last year’s total through the third quarter.

International growth is expected to continue through the end of 2013 with the help of four upcoming route launches. Canadian low-cost carrier WestJet will begin non-stop service from Calgary on October 28 with four weekly flights until December 14 and then increase the service to six weekly flights through April 26. American Airlines is scheduled to launch new routes to MIA from: Cozumel, Mexico on November 21; the Brazilian cities of Curitiba and Porto Alegre on November 22; and Milan, Italy also on November 22. 

The two new Brazilian cities will bring the total number of destinations in Brazil served by MIA to nine – the largest number for any U.S. airport. The destinations also comprise nine of the 12 host cities for the 2014 World Cup in June, providing the most options of any U.S. airport for World Cup travelers. MIA’s reach in its top international market will expand further when TAM Airlines launches the airport’s 10th Brazilian route from Belem in February 2014.

MIA’s pursuit of new international markets reached another major milestone in October with the announcement that Qatar Airways will launch the first-ever route from Doha on June 10, 2014, with four weekly flights. The new route will be the only passenger service between Florida and the Middle East region and establishes new connections between MIA and destinations in India, Asia, East Africa and Australia.

“With the World Cup approaching next summer and the Olympic Games also being held in Brazil in 2016, we look forward to strengthening our position as the world gateway to Brazil and the Americas,” said Miami-Dade Aviation Director Emilio T. Gonzalez. “MIA’s central location and extensive route network in Latin America and the Caribbean continue to be attractive incentives for top airlines from around the world.”

Total freight shipments at MIA grew by less than one percent to 1.5 million tons through September, with international freight increasing one percent and domestic freight dipping 4.4 percent. MIA’s freight growth is slightly above the world average of -0.1 percent through August, according to Airports Council International. 

New accommodation site caters to international tourists flocking to London


Kippsy.com, the new collaborative accommodation online platform which launched three months ago, has reported an increase in bookings and enquiries from visitors to London from the Middle East, Russia and China.

Phil Cooper, founder and managing director of Kippsy, says: "When we launched Kippsy in July we thought our offering would be popular with visitors from these countries, but we have been overwhelmed and pleasantly surprised by the level of interest we are generating in these regions." 

With listings of over 1,000 short-term lets in London from one-night to short stays in apartment-style accommodation, Cooper continues, "The Kippsy platform is catering to visitors who want to live like locals when in London. Our findings are that international business travelers, tourist couples and families are looking for the flexibility and 'home comfort' that staying in self-contained, centrally located apartments provides."

The data from Kippsy, is supported by the statistics from the British Commercial Association which showed a 36 per cent increase in sales this year due to the contribution of Arab tourism in London, estimated to be worth £1.3 billion per year. 

Russian tourists spend more than £300 million a year in the UK. While Chinese visitors form 20 per cent of all retail spend in the West End from outside the UK - with an average spend of £776 per transaction, source: Global Blue.

The Rt Hon Maria Miller MP, in her keynote speech at the British Hospitality and Tourism Summit in June 2013, said, "We're seeing big shifts in where our international visitors are coming from. While our immediate European neighbours and the USA remain the source of greatest number of visitors, it should perhaps come as no surprise that in 2011 the highest spending tourists were from Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, China and Russia."

Wellness Tourism Worldwide announces Top 10 Wellness Travel Trends for 2014


Wellness Tourism Worldwide (WTW) is pleased to announce the release of the “Top 10 Wellness Travel Trends of 2014”. The forecast is based on data collection and research throughout the year that was consolidated to bring practical knowledge to both individuals and businesses.  

WTW’s data and trend analysis included: site visits, literary review, surveys, interviews and feedback from consumers, travel trade, healthcare professionals, wellness experts and academia.

Camille Hoheb, wellness travel industry expert and founder of Wellness Tourism Worldwide and Editor of the Wellness Travel Journal noted, "The multi-dimensionality of wellness opens the door to a whole new world." She added, “This forecast will encourage consumers and business to think of vacation travel in new ways. Our data shows that consumers view vacations as an important way to improve health, happiness and productivity. Vacation trips are often a catalyst for transformation and consumers view wellness travel as a personal investment.”

While last year’s forecast focused on three distinct areas of how wellness impacted architecture and designs, programs and service levels in 1) air transit 2) hotel accommodation and 3) destinations; this year’s trends in tourism, health and hospitality were evaluated think to direct businesses to tune their marketing strategy. The report, “Top 10 Wellness Travel Trends for 2014: Boosting Sales & Maximizing Profits” will be released in January.

Top 10 Wellness Travel Trends for 2014
1. Mind Matters
2. The Rise of Wellness Travel Agents
3. La Local Vita
4. Breaking Bread with Wellness Travel
5. Vacation RX
6. Looking for Personal Enrichment
7. Burgeoning Secondary Wellness Market
8. Slow Travel
9. Affluent & Altruistic
10. Spas on a Mission

Mind Matters: Consumers have caught on to mindful vacations that offer mental restoration. Practices learned on a trip such as meditation, yoga, qi going and journaling can be incorporated at home to help manage stress, improve cognitive capacity and maintain emotional equilibrium.

The Rise of Wellness Travel Agents: With the growing interest in trips to enhance mind, body and spirit, wellness tourism has created a new niche for travel agents to grow or expand their business while offering a personally and professionally rewarding career specialty.

La Local Vita: Consumers have developed a deeper appreciation for locally relevant and authentic experiences with an emphasis on living “la local vita” (the local life). Mindsets have shifted away from tourist behavior to a keen interest in community-based exploration where getting to know the locals in a meaningful way sweetens the experience.

Breaking Bread With Wellness: Food tourism is a big trend intersecting with wellness travel. In addition to the physical aspect of sustenance; food tours, cooking classes, agriculture and farm-to-table experiences speak to the emotional, social, intellectual and sustainable aspects of well-being.

Vacation RX: “Take 2 weeks and call me in the morning.” Physicians are now prescribing vacations as an antidote from stress. Doctor’s orders for physical activity in parks are also being written to help combat obesity and diabetes in children.

Looking for Personal Enrichment: With the understanding that wellness is more than fitness and nutrition, consumers are choosing trips that either focus solely on personal enrichment or as a part of their travel plans. In search of fulfillment and meaning, many consumers are viewing vacations, weekend getaways and retreats viewed as a catalyst for change.

Slow Travel: Have you ever felt pressured to run through your vacation checking off sites to see and things to do? Slow travel advocates changing the pace in order to sip, savor and revel in the vacation experience.

Affluent & Altruistic: Spurned by personal growth and discovery, affluent travelers value experiences connecting them to charitable causes and local communities. Volunteering on vacation has become increasingly popular and research shows altruism can improve well-being.

Burgeoning Secondary Wellness Market: There is a large segment of travelers who may not opt for wellness retreats or tours but are committed to maintaining their healthy lifestyle on the road. Air transit and hotels are investing resources to attract these guests that are both business and leisure travelers.

Spas on a Mission: The spa industry is staking a claim on wellness tourism and wellness in general. Eager to shake the image of pampering for the affluent, spas are repacking and rebranding as wellness providers to attract a larger market.

three: living architecture Revives Historic Brewhouse


SAN ANTONIO—A local landmark from 1883 to 2001, the historic Pearl Brewery Brewhouse is now being renovated into the Hotel Pearl, operated by Kimpton Hotels.

Based on design work by three: living architecture, the hotel will include 146 guestrooms, dining, social and meeting spaces with interiors that celebrate the culture and character of South Texas and Pearl.
“Hotel Pearl has been one of the most challenging—yet personally rewarding endeavors of my 39 years practicing architecture,” stated Gary Koerner, founder and president of three, and also lead designer for the project. “The wonderful grittiness associated with the original architectural fabric of the Pearl Brewhouse has been seamlessly infused with the luxury and personality that will become the hallmark of Hotel Pearl.”

Silver Ventures, Inc., a San Antonio investment firm, engaged three to design the renovation of the original Pearl property and add a new guestroom tower. Opening of the new project is slated for summer of 2014.
“We have a 15-year relationship with three: living architecture, and Pearl is our third major hotel project with them,” stated Bill Shown, managing director of real estate for Silver Ventures, Inc. “They have extensive, world-wide hospitality experience and a deep understanding of what it takes to make a great hotel. We can’t imagine developing a hotel without them at our side.” 
three: living architecture is also the designer of The Westin Riverwalk and Hotel Contessa in San Antonio.   

Radisson to Open Cincinnati Resort

CINCINNATI, OH—Radisson has signed the Radisson Cincinnati North CoCo Key Water Resort, which is expected to open Nov. 15.

The 257-room, full-service hotel also offers indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, a 24-hour business center and meeting space for up to 300 people. It also has complimentary high-speed wireless Internet access.
According to Radisson, the signing of this hotel reinforces its development goal to expand the brand in key suburban markets.

“We are thrilled to begin a relationship with Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group and its family of brands. We are confident that the consistency, value and leadership of this brand and the Carlson Rezidor system will result in a successful future for this hotel,” stated Vijayakumar Vemulapalli, president, Durga LLC.

Northwood Investors Acquires The London West Hollywood

LOS ANGELES—Northwood Investors LLC, a privately held global real estate firm, has acquired The London West Hollywood, a 200-room hotel in West Hollywood, CA for an undisclosed amount. Northwood Hospitality LLC, an affiliate of Northwood, will manage the hotel.

“We are excited to build upon the success of the hotel by making further capital investments in the property, beginning with the build-out of the new luxury suites," stated Jonathan Wang, managing director of Northwood. “This is our first hotel acquisition on the West Coast and exemplifies our focus on luxury hotels in strong hospitality markets."

The London West Hollywood is an all-suite luxury hotel with interiors conceived by David Collins Studio. The hotel also features gourmet dining from Gordon Ramsey and a rooftop pool and lounge. Following the acquisition by Northwood, Jeffrey Kulek will become the general manager of the hotel.   

Starwood Hotels Expands Presence in Thailand


HUA HIN, THAILAND—Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. today announced its Sheraton brand has expanded its footprint in Thailand with the opening of Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas in Prachuap Khirikhan located here.

Honor Business Company Limited, a Bangkok-based property development firm, owns the converted and rebranded 55-villa property and 240-room Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa. Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas offers a prime beachfront location, approximately 22 kilometers south of Hua Hin.
“We are thrilled to partner with Honor Business Company on this conversion in Prachuap Kirikhan, a popular seaside retreat on the Gulf of Siam,” stated Lothar Pehl, SVP, operations and global initiatives and regional VP, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam; and Japan, Korea and Guam, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “Through its conversion-friendly strategy, Starwood offers owners the opportunity to reposition existing properties and affiliate themselves with strong global brands that resonate with travelers in markets worldwide.”

Sheraton Hua Hin Pranburi Villas is the newest addition to Starwood’s portfolio of 21 properties in Thailand under eight of its brands: St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, W Hotels, Sheraton, Westin, Le Méridien, Aloft and Four Points by Sheraton. Sheraton currently operates four hotels in the Thai kingdom, including Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers, Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort and Sheraton Pattaya Resort.

Guests can choose between one-bedroom Pool Villas, Pool Villa Suites with an additional living room, and Duplex Pool Villa Suites with a ground-floor living room and bedroom on the first floor. For larger groups, the hotel also offers the Pranburi two-bedroom Pool Villa Suite. All Villas offer a private swimming pool, sun lounge, wall garden and the service of professional villa butlers.

Rooms are equipped with the king-sized Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed; sunken outdoor bathtub surrounded by lotus ponds and a rain shower in the garden; LCD flat panel TV; DVD player, including a I-Home docking station; spacious work area; and High Speed Internet Access.

Λαμπερή εκδήλωση «Gig on a Wing» για τον εορτασμό της ένταξης του Α380 της British Airways στην πτήση προς Χονγκ Κονγκ

Ότι καλύτερο έχει να επιδείξει η βρετανική μουσική, η μόδα, το σχέδιο και η κουζίνα συγκεντρώθηκε σε μια φαντασμαγορική βραδιά που διοργάνωσε η British Airways στο Χονγκ-Κονγκ γιορτάζοντας έτσι την επίσημη ένταξη του ολοκαίνουργιου Α380 στο δρομολόγιο Λονδίνο – Χονγκ- Κονγκ – Λονδίνο. Η εντυπωσιακή αυτή εκδήλωση που έφερε το όνομα «Gig on a Wing», παρουσίασε επιλεγμένα «αστέρια» της Βρετανίας σε εκλεκτούς προσκεκλημένους, όπως ο κ. Keith Williams, Διευθύνων Σύμβουλος της British Airways και αξιωματούχους του κλάδου των αερομεταφορών, της ταξιδιωτικής βιομηχανίας, της ψυχαγωγίας και της φιλοξενίας του Χονγκ Κονγκ.

Η εκδήλωση που πραγματοποιήθηκε σε έναν ειδικά διαμορφωμένο χώρο στο Διεθνή Αερολιμένα του Χονγκ Κονγκ, είχε ως επίκεντρο το υπερσύγχρονο Α380 super-jumbo της British Airways, το οποίο αποτέλεσε και το βασικό στοιχείο του σκηνικού που στήθηκε.

Ο Keith Williams, Διευθύνων Σύμβουλος της British Airways δήλωσε: «Η σημερινή μέρα αποτελεί ορόσημο στη μακρά και με παράδοση πλέον σχέση που έχει αναπτυχθεί και που συνδέει το Χονγκ- Κονγκ με το Λονδίνο, δύο από τα βασικότερα αεροπορικά κέντρα του κόσμου. Για περισσότερο από 75 χρόνια, αυτή η πόλη αποτελεί ένα σημαντικό κομμάτι του παγκόσμιου δικτύου της British Airways και συνεπώς είμαστε ιδιαίτερα χαρούμενοι για την ένταξη του υπερσύγχρονου Α380 στο στόλο της εταιρείας και στο συγκεκριμένο δρομολόγιο, καθώς επίσης και για το γεγονός ότι είμαστε οι πρώτοι που εγκαινιάζουμε αυτή την απευθείας σύνδεση του Χονγκ Κονγκ με την Ευρώπη».

Η εκδήλωση της British Airways «Gig on a Wing» ξεκίνησε με μια εντυπωσιακή επίδειξη μόδας από την πασίγνωστη Αγγλίδα σχεδιάστρια Alice Temperley. Λίγες μόλις εβδομάδες μετά την Εβδομάδα Μόδας του Λονδίνου, η ταλαντούχα σχεδιάστρια παρουσίασε τις προτάσεις της για την περίοδο Άνοιξη / Καλοκαίρι 2014, από τη βραβευμένη κολεξιόν Temperley London. Τα πανέμορφα μοντέλα αφού κατέβηκαν τις σκάλες του Α380, παρέλασαν σε μια ειδικά διαμορφωμένη πασαρέλα. Η Alice Temperly που σχεδίασε ρούχα για πολλές διάσημες προσωπικότητες, όπως η Keira Knightly, η Rihanna, η Beyonce, και η Δούκισσα του Κέιμπριτζ είπε: «Ενθουσιάστηκα πολύ όταν μου ζητήθηκε από την British Airways να παρουσιάσω την κολεξιόν μου στο Χονγκ Κονγκ, ιδιαίτερα σε μια τόσο λαμπερή εκδήλωση. Ο κόσμος εδώ εκτιμά πάρα πολύ την υψηλή ραπτική, την τελειότητα στην αισθητική και το στυλ, στοιχεία πολύ όμοια με το Α380 της British Airways».

Η βραδιά συνεχίστηκε με την αποκλειστική εμφάνιση της νικήτρια του X-Factor Leona Lewis, η οποία ερμήνευσε ζωντανά μερικές από τις πασίγνωστες επιτυχίες της. Η Lewis παρουσίασε τα τραγούδια της πάνω σε μια ειδικά κατασκευασμένη σκηνή που πλαισιώνονταν από το ένα φτερό του A380. Η Leona Lewis ερμήνευσε επί σκηνής, μια διασκευή του «Fly Away» του Lenny Kravitz, καθώς επίσης και τις παγκόσμιες επιτυχίες της «Bleeding Love» και «Come Alive». Μιλώντας μετά την εκδήλωση η Leona Lewis δήλωσε: «Ήταν μια απίστευτη εμπειρία να ερμηνεύω τα κομμάτια μου πάνω σε ένα από τα μεγαλειώδη φτερά του Α380 της British Airways και σίγουρα αυτή τη μέρα δεν θα την ξεχάσω ποτέ. Μετά από την ερμηνεία μου στο διώροφο λεωφορείο στους Ολυμπιακούς Αγώνες του Πεκίνου το 2008, νόμιζα πως δύσκολα θα ζούσα πιο συναρπαστική εμπειρία, όμως η αποψινή εκδήλωση “Gig on a Wing” ήταν πολύ ξεχωριστή και σίγουρα μοναδική».

Το Langham Hong Kong, το στολίδι του νότιο-ανατολικού τμήματος της Κίνας, προσέφερε σε όλους του προσκεκλημένους πλούσια εδέσματα, με έντονο φυσικά το βρετανικό στοιχείο.

Στο κλείσιμο της βραδιάς, το διάσημο μοντέλο Georgia May Jagger, κόρη του Mick Jagger των θρυλικών Rolling Stones, ανέβηκε στη σκηνή με τον κ. Keith Williams για την πραγματοποίηση ειδικής κλήρωσης, το δώρο της οποίας περιλάμβανε δύο εισιτήρια Club World με την British Airways προς το Λονδίνο με το νέο A380 και διανυκτέρευση στο The Langham London. Η Georgia May Jagger είπε: «Είμαι πολύ ευτυχισμένη που η British Airways με προσκάλεσε στο Χονγκ Κονγκ με την πρώτη πτήση του νέου Α380 της εταιρείας. Η εξυπηρέτηση, η ποιότητα του φαγητού και ο ύπνος στα flat beds σε μια τόσο μακρινή πτήση ήταν άριστα, με αποτέλεσμα να φτάσω εδώ πολύ ξεκούραστη. Μου αρέσει πολύ το Χονγκ Κονγκ και ανυπομονώ να επιστρέψω και να παραμείνω περισσότερο σε αυτή την υπέροχη πόλη».

Η British Airways πραγματοποιεί το δρομολόγιο Λονδίνο - Χονγκ Κονγκ - Λονδίνο δύο φορές ημερησίως από το αεροδρόμιο Χίθροου του Λονδίνου. Το νέο Α380 θα εξυπηρετεί την πτήση ΒΑ25 από Λονδίνο προς Χονγκ Κονγκ και ΒΑ26 από Χονγκ Κονγκ προς Λονδίνο.

ACES – Athens, 1st Airport Chief Executives’ Symposium



Keynote speeches

Ms Angela Gittens, Director General, ACI World gave an analytical description of the worldwide traffic trends and airport economics in numbers.
Despite the turbulent economic situation in Europe and political unrest in other parts of the world, air traffic has experienced growth, though modest: the 4.4% growth in passenger traffic outpaced the 3.2% growth of world output. As expected the gains were modest in the mature and financially unstable markets  of Europe and North America while the BRICS recorded a 7.4% growth and the emerging markets performed even higher at 8.7% driven by demographics and per capita  income increase. Passenger traffic is growing in all regions but the  top performing regions are Asia  and the Middle East with 11.5%. In 2012 air cargo grew only by 0.5% because of economic factors and because of pressures from alternative modes of freight delivery. Aircraft movements recorded modest gains as a result of economic slowdown and airlines’ efforts to curtail capacity and to  increase aircraft load factors to increase yields. 


In her presentation of airports data, Mrs Gittens stressed that although airports are directly influenced by airports, they operate a completely different from airlines so they have resorted to the diverfication of their business portofolios as a buffer against the volatility of the air transport market. Quite successfully, it seems as they have recorded an increase of 2.4% from 2010 and aeronautical income remains their main source of revenue as it represents 57%, She also noted that both landing and passengers charges at airports increased, a fact that indicates that when faced with traffic decrease both airlines and aiports try to pass charges to passengers, Non-aeronautical activities represent 38% of airport revenues but have greater profit margins. On the cost side airport experienced a 1.19% rise in operating and capital costs but the increase in total income overcame this increase. A common element in all airports is the declining average cost curve as the initial cost of infrastructure, the cost of supplying services to addtional passengers is low and total cost falls considerably. She also noted that high volume traffic remains concentrated in a few airports and airports representing the 20% of  passenger traffic make up 80% of the world’s airports. 

Mrs Gittens went on to talk about the resolution adopted at the 38th IACO assembly to commit to a global market-based measured for aviation emissions to be decided at the 2016 ICAO assembly. She said that the next three years will be spent on technical discussions that will set the standars for monitoring, reporting and verification of emmissions and the type of scheme to be implemented, with airports playing a key role. 

She concluded by stessing that caced with  constantly and  suddenly changing market conditions, the air transport stakeholders need to work together and announced  that  ACI and IATA just signed a formal agreement to collaborate on technical specifications for data exchange and world wide capacity, an agreement which will benefit airports, airlines and passengers making the airline industry safer and more efficient. 

Mr Olivier Jankovec, Director General, ACI Europe, presented the european evolution of traffic in 2012, which recorded an increase by 1.8% of passengers, a significant decrease of cargo by 2.8% while movements decreased by 2.5% An the same time, the traffic in the hubs increased by 2.5% versus a marginal increase of the traffic in regional airports. This year, statistics from January to August show an improvement of the traffic of passengers by an 2.1% increase, a marginal decrease of cargo by 0.7% and a decrease of 2.1% of movements;  forecasts  for 2013 anticipate an increase of passengers by 2% and 0% of cargo. He added that 27% of european airports are losing traffic (but this figure is better than the 66% in January) and 42.5% are loss making (49% in 2012). 
He emphasized that now there exist new forces and fundamentals such as commoditisation, with some airline proceeding to a capacity increase- such as LCCs, Turkish Airlines and Gulf carriers.  There is also more environment uncertainty for airports: for example in 2012, 1030 routes were scrapped and the planning horizon shortened (obliging airports to reduce their costs, to focus on commercial activities and offer competitive charges). He concluded tha airports are undergoing a business transformation from B2B to business to client mode.

Dr Yiannis N. Paraschis, Chairman ACI World & CEO, Athens International Airport, said that historically the airlines since 1975 are loss making. Three Gulf carriers in 2015 will be in the top 20 by capacity and the airports in Middle East plan for a 450 million passengers capacity. In the neighborhood of Greece and SE Europe there is a clear dominance of Turkish carriers (Turkish Airlines, Pegasus and SunExpress). He added that european passenger traffic development is highly correlated with the home base carrier growth.
The major challenges for the SE European region include the marginal growth in Western Europe, state capitalism but other dynamics play an important role: the strong development in China, Gulf countries and Turkey, the development of LCCs and the concomitant pressures on costs across the travel industry’s value chain, the consolidation of european network airlines, limited room for development of peripheral EU airlines and. As for the Greek market, the A3/OA merger creates an opportunity for growth. 

He finally stressed that there is a changing climate with positive signs in Greece with GDP improving, Athens becoming a choice destination and home airline strategy improving.


Airports as catalysts for the promotion of the Destination
Mr James Cherry, CEO, Montreal Airport, in his speech described that apart from the geographical, economic and demographic dimensions the partnership angle needs to be added . Airport is the focal point and has a natural role to play as airports possess data that other air transport stakeholders don’t have.
Mr Declan Collier, CEO, London City Airport, focused on the importance of the airport location, the convenience for passengers and the speed of transit as 61% of passengers fly for business reasons and 60% is inbound traffic. The airports has  a 880 million Euro annual contribution to UK and 2,100 employees. He added that London is moving east and there is a cooperation with local businesses. Finally he said that LCY approach is to remove capacity constraints, to conduct detailed research on city pair opportunities, on resources research, and on promotion and marketing; the airport promotes the destination, works with airlines on yield, fleet and route opportunities and co-ordinates and acts as catalyst for inward investment.
The Study:“Assessing the Economic Impact of Athens International Airport” conducted by the Athens University of Economics and Business was presented by Dr. Gregory P. Prastacos, Dean and professor, Howe School of Technology Management, Stevens Institute of Technology, USA, former Rrofessor and Rector of the Athens university of Economics and Business (AuEB)/  The study demonstrated that the business activity of the Athens airport contributes 2.63 percent of the country’s GDP, and creates approximately 100,000 jobs despite the economic crisis.


The Impact of Aviation on Economic Development

Mr Fredrick J. Piccolo, Vice Chairman ACI World & President & CEO, Sarasota-Manatee Airport Authority, presented the contribution of aviation in the US economy in figures: 1.2 trillion USD, 10.5 million jobs (5.2% GDP) and 361 direct connections between domestic cities. In the case of Sarasota Airport there is an impact of 968 million USD and 11,400 jobs.
Mr Philippe Baril, Chairman, Quito Airport, said that only in the first year of operations at the new airport 18,000 jobs  were created.
Dr Michael Kerkloh, President & CEO, Munich Airport, analyzed the role of MUC airport in the economic growth of the region as  the city has become a prime business location for high tech, medical, IT, automobile, sport, media, etc. As he said, an efficient airport is the prerequisite for economic growth and gave a an impressive example: every new long haul range aircraft based in Munich generates up to 400 jobs (A380) and there are in Munich 25 long range aircraft based. 

He concluded by saying that the salaries of airport employees increased by 26% between 2006 and 2012 and the aviation sector in Germany contributes 47.9 billion Euro and supports 816,000 jobs.

Ms Emmanuelle Maire, Head of Unit, Internal Market and Airports, DG Move, EC said that the EU internal market in aviation is one of the success stories of EU; however, confronted with internal constraints and growing competition from third countries it needs to evolve, and added that capacity and quality will continue to be high on the agenda of EC and stressed that more work is needed on delays and airport performance.
Source:http://www.atn.aero

Malaysia Airlines Resumes Flights to Tokyo


Malaysia Airlines has re-introduced direct flights to Narita International Airport, Tokyo from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. 

This much awaited service was strongly rooted for by Malaysians and Japanese alike. This service will re-open Kota Kinabalu as the Malaysian national carrier’s eastern hub. 

Beginning 28 October 2013, MH080 will depart Kota Kinabalu at 7.25am on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays and arrive at Tokyo at 2.00pm on the same days.

Meanwhile, the return flight, MH081 will depart Tokyo at 2.55pm on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays and arrive Kota Kinabalu at 8.05pm on the same days. 

A two-class configured Boeing 737-800 aircraft with 144 economy class seats and 16 business class seats is being used for this Tokyo - Kota Kinabalu return service.

Aeroflot Launches Moscow-Chita Flight

Starting from October 27, 2013 Aeroflot is launching a regular Moscow-Chita-Moscow flight from Sheremetyevo airport Terminal D. 

The services will be provided four times a week according to the following schedule:

SU1760 leaves Moscow at 22:25 arriving to Chita at 10:30 (local time). Return SU1761 flight leaves Chita at 11:55 and lands in Moscow at 12:45 (local time).

The flights will be operated on Airbus A-320 and Boeing737-800NG aircraft. Boeing 737-800NG is one of the world's most popular single-aisle jet airliners providing high level of comfort on medium-haul routes.

Aeroflot’s Boeing 737-800NG have two-class layout with 20 seats in Business class and 138 seats in Economy class. All Boeing 737-800NG aircraft are delivered to Aeroflot directly from the manufacturer.

Chita is a major industrial and cultural center of Eastern Siberia, transport and communication center of Transbaikal region. The geographical position of the city offers the shortest transport link between western regions of Russia, Eastern and Western Europe with China and the countries of Southeast Asia.

Travel Technology display area expands


ITB Berlin will be putting an even greater focus on the increasingly important Travel Technology segment. 

Next year, the show will provide space in Hall 5.1 for companies from this market for the first time. Thus, the world’s leading travel trade show will create an additional 700 metres of display area for the topic of travel technology in tourism. In 2014 Training and Employment in Tourism (TET), along with universities and technical colleges, will move from Hall 5.1 to Hall 11.1.

As part of this reorganisation, the majority of exhibitors previously in Hall 6.1 will move to Hall 5.1. The hall layout will remain largely the same. The Technology Hall will feature companies exhibiting traditional Travel Technology products, who also address similar themes to the numerous tourism enterprises in Hall 25. Most of the companies representing the hotel industry can be found in Hall 6.1, in close proximity to Halls 8.1, 9 and 10.1. In future the eTravel World, which up to now has been in Hall 7.1c, will be in Hall 6.1 together with technology companies. For space reasons they previously occupied other halls. This reshuffle means that in 2014 the eTravel World, which once again has information on mobile travel service, social media and blogging innovations and trends, will now expand. The exhibitors in Hall 6.1, many of whom will be represented here for the first time, will be able to benefit even more from the attraction this popular segment exerts on visitors who are interested in the internet. Next year some of the events at the ITB Berlin Convention can be found in Hall 7.1c, including the PhoCusWright@ITB technology conference.

WTM Africa in Cape Town will attract interest locally and internationally

WTM Africa will be held at Cape Town’s International Convention Centre (CTICC) on Friday 2 and Saturday 3 May 2014. 

It will be the leading B2B exhibition for Africa’s travel industry, bringing the world to Africa and promoting Africa to the world’s leading source markets.

With more than six months to go exhibitors have started to sign up already, with confirmations ahead of target.

Dreams4Africa Director Mark Collins explained: "WTM has the experience and recognition worldwide as good travel show organisers. There are so many new emerging markets that we are hoping WTM will attract a larger number of buyers from across the globe. Holding WTM Africa in Cape Town will attract interest locally and internationally."

White Shark Projects Sales & Marketing Manager Charmaine Beukes added: "With WTM’s excellent reputation for hosting successful trade shows, I am hoping that the same quality visitors that normally visit its exhibitions will be attracted to WTM Africa."

WTM Africa will be one of three co-located travel industry events at the Cape Town International Conference Centre (CTICC) that form Africa Travel Week 2014. The others will include IBTM Africa (Incentive, Business Travel & Meetings) and ILTM Africa (International Luxury Travel Market) which will take place from 28 - 30 April.