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).

Παρασκευή 31 Ιανουαρίου 2014

MAG to develop AED 800 million Healthcare City project


Dubai-based MAG Group will develop approximately one million square feet mixed-use project in Dubai Healthcare City at an estimated cost of around AED 800 million. 

The development which is still at the concept design stage is expected to include two hospitals covering a total of 260,000 square feet, plus an 80,000 square feet clinic; a residential complex of four buildings with combined gross floor area of 430,000 square feet; a hotel apartment with a gross floor area of 80,000 square feet and 100,000 square feet of retail space. 

The development will also include a mosque and one of the most advanced automated car parks and extensive hard and soft landscaping. It is envisaged that the whole project will be completed by the end of 2016.

Addressing officials from DHCC, Moafaq Al Gaddah, Chairman of MAG Group said, “The healthcare sector in Dubai is on the cusp of a sustained period of growth and will need to build medical facilities for the future. This expansion is being fuelled by numerous factors.


“First the natural growth in the local population and in the number of expatriate arrivals as the economy expands, looking ahead to Expo 2020. Two, the growth of private health insurance due to changes in government employment policy and Dubai’s growing status as a medical tourism hub for the Middle East,” he added.

The feasibility of the project needs little explanation. According to the DHA, total inpatient visits to healthcare centres grew by a CAGR of 9%, between 2006 and 2011 totalling 183,000 visits in 2011. By that time almost 57% of all inpatient facilities were in private hands, as inpatient visits to private healthcare centres grew by a CAGR of 18% over the same period and a clear sign of changing preferences in Dubai.


It is a similar picture for outpatient care. Outpatient visits to private 

healthcare centres grew by a CAGR of 8% between 2006 and 2011. The private 
sector now dominates outpatient care, with 73% of all outpatient visits in 
2011.

Hungary’s travel and Tourism industry Outlook


New government initiatives, health-related tourism and the growing importance of low-cost carriers are driving growth in Hungary’s travel and tourism industry. 

According to a new report from Timetric, there will be 12 million International tourists in the country by 2017. 

Germany and Austria are key source markets, but visitors from China, Brazil and India have been increasing − a trend which is expected to continue towards 2017. The number of international arrivals to Hungary is expected to grow at an annual rate of 2.91%, to reach 12 million by 2017. According to Timetric, there are three key drivers to this growth: The popularity of health related tourism, a new government-led voucher scheme and the introduction of new low-cost airlines. 

Hungary is Europe’s leading dental tourism destination 

Each year, 7,000 people visit Hungary to receive dental treatment, making it Europe’s leading dental tourism destination. Of all the international arrivals to Hungary in 2012, 13.2% visited the country for health and wellness purposes. As a part of the National Tourism Development Concept (2012–2014), the government has planned the development of three to five health resorts and a further eight to ten regional baths by 2024.

New voucher card support domestic tourism

The Széchenyi Recreation (Szép) card, a voucher scheme that was introduced in 2012 to promote domestic tourism, continues to grow in terms of cardholders. The card has been issued to 900,000 people and is accepted in 51,000 catering and accommodation establishments. In 2013, HUF12.9 billion (around US$59 million) was spent on accommodation alone through the card, making the voucher scheme a great success.

Low-cost carriers record growth due to Malév’s demise

Although the bankruptcy of Malév Hungarian Airlines in early 2012 was considered a major setback for the aviation market, low-cost carrier (LCC) penetration is increasing. Wizz Air has since expanded to become Hungary’s largest airline, while Ryanair is expanding its network in Hungary. To 2017, the aviation market is expected to recover well from the loss of its national airline.

Best Western partners with Deutsche Bahn Deal

Best Western International has started 2014 on the right track, following the signing of a new partnership agreement with Germany’s national rail operator, Deutsche Bahn. 

Providing just the ticket for regular travelers, members of Deutsche Bahn’s ‘bahn.bonus’ customer loyalty program can now earn points while staying at any of Best Western’s 4,000+ hotels and resorts across the world which includes more than 200 properties in Asia.

Under the terms of the agreement, members of the bahn.bonus program will be awarded 250 points for every qualifying stay at a Best Western hotel anywhere around the world. Customers do not need to be members of the Best Western Rewards program to qualify.

To mark the launch of the new partnership, Best Western is offering triple bahn.bonus points for any eligible stay at a Best Western hotel in Germany and Luxembourg. This exciting offer is valid from now until April 30th, 2014.

Members of elite ‘comfort’ level of the bahn.bonus program will also be offered the chance to join the Best Western Rewards guest loyalty program. They will be entitled to the same privileges as Best Western Rewards’ Platinum members.

One of Germany’s leading loyalty programs, bahm.bonus currently has 3.3 million members, including 270,000 comfort level members. Deutsche Bahn joins numerous other transport companies, including airlines, rail operators and car rental operators, as Best Western partners.

African Suppliers Excited About Inaugural WTM Africa

The inaugural World Travel Market Africa, taking place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) from 2nd – 3rd May 2014 is attracting exhibitors from all categories of the leisure, luxury travel and meetings industries. 

Well-known companies already signed up for the first WTM Africa include; Dreams 4 Africa, Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris, Brothers Safaris, Sunway Safaris and Cooks Air Tours and Safaris, all of which are crafters of tours and safaris in Southern Africa. Pan-African hotel brands will be gracing the CTICC and standing proud among them will be one of the largest hotel brands here in Sub Saharan Africa, the City Lodge Hotel Group.

With 55 hotels in South Africa, Kenya and Botswana, the City Lodge Hotel Group is a major supplier of quality hotel accommodation for business and leisure travellers. All of the group’s hotels are in excellent locations, providing easy access to business districts, major roads and airports.

“We are looking forward to participating in WTM Africa as it will give us an exciting opportunity to showcase our portfolio of hotels and and help us to continue to build relationships in the travel industry,” said Peter Schoeman, Divisional Director, Sales and Marketing, at the City Lodge Hotel Group.

Exhibitors are looking forward to lucrative business discussions with the world’s leading travel industry buyers, including 300, pre-qualified, buyers from both emerging and traditional source markets who will be hosted by WTM Africa, many of these new to events in Africa. “For many years we have supported Reed Exhibitions and are disciples of the value-for-the-investment derived through the qualification process Reed Exhibitions puts into each event and the seller contingent drawn in,” said buyer Allan Falck, Executive Director, Sundance Tours, Argentina. “With African and Indian Ocean destinations looming larger with our client base WTM Africa is the one event we will support delivering new customers and new business to those WTM exhibitors.”

Fully supported by the City of Cape Town and the Western Cape Government, the very first WTM Africa will be held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) and the city is poised to host the biggest ‘fam trip’ it has ever seen with more than 4,500 visitors and exhibitors participating.

Africa Travel Week events are:

•           ILTM Africa 28 – 30 April 2014

•           IBTM Africa 28 – 30 April 2014

•           WTM Africa: 02 – 03 May 2014

For further information about each of the Africa Travel Week events, please visit www.africatravelweek.com.

After a successful year, Messe Berlin announced target for 2014


The Messe Berlin GmbH group of companies has begun the new year having just concluded its most successful odd-numbered financial year in the company’s entire history. 

With a turnover of 190 million euros (2011: 180 million) Messe Berlin was able to post a new record. During the past financial year (2013) Messe Berlin’s 58 in-house and guest events attracted around 26,000 exhibitors from more than 180 countries, who rented 1.22 million square metres of hall space. Over 20,000 exhibitors participated in the company’s in-house events, of whom around two-thirds came from abroad. 51 in-house and guest events had previously taken place in 2011. These were attended by around 20,000 exhibitors, who rented approximately 900,000 square metres of hall space. In 2013 over 1.5 million visitors from Germany and abroad attended the company’s events (2011: 1.4 mio.). More than 550,000 of this number were trade visitors (2011: 500,000), of whom around 60 per cent came from abroad.

In 2013 the Berlin Exhibition Grounds once again played host to numerous large-scale congresses, particularly in the medical field. Thus over 13,000 visitors came to the International Congress Center Berlin (ICC Berlin) to attend the world’s largest gastroenterology congress. Overall, Messe Berlin Conventions organised 35 congresses and shows. The total number of visitors was 135,000, of whom around 60 per cent came from abroad. Berlin ExpoCenter City also hosts hundreds of conferences, meetings and workshops, which are part of the supporting programmes for trade fairs. Events took place at established venues such as the International Congress Center Berlin (ICC Berlin), the Palais am Funkturm, the Marshall Haus and in the display halls on the southern section of the grounds. 

Berlin ExpoCenter Airport is Messe Berlin’s second event venue, located adjacent to BER, the capital’s future new airport. In 2013 highlights here included the January and July editions of the fashion show PANORAMA BERLIN. Showcasing high-turnover collections of mens’ and womenswear, shoes and accessoires, each of the two editions was attended by around 70,000 trade visitors from around the world. John Deere, the world’s largest manufacturer of agricultural machinery, also presented its products on the new grounds. During August and September the company exhibited its 2014 line-up to 5,000 selected sales representatives, dealers and major customers, who came from 40 countries.

Messe Berlin’s CEO Dr. Christian Göke is optimistic about the prospects for the current financial year: “In 2014 the CityCube heralds the start of a new era in trade fairs and congresses for Messe Berlin. Both the exhibition grounds and the CityCube are almost fully booked up for 2014. Messe Berlin expects turnover to reach around 250 million euros, equalling the record of 2012, a year with a similar number of events.“

In 2014 all of Messe Berlin’s leading trade fairs are scheduled to take place. They include the International Green Week Berlin 2014 (17 - 26 Jan.), FRUIT LOGISTICA Berlin 2014 (5 - 7 Feb.), ITB Berlin (5 - 9 March), the International Berlin Air Show ILA 2014 (20 - 25 May), IFA 2014 (5 -10 Sept.) and InnoTrans (23 - 26 Sept.). Abroad, Messe Berlin organises two highly successful shows, offspins from the corresponding trade fairs at home: ITB Asia in Singapore (29 - 31 Oct.) and ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA in Hong Kong (3 - 5 Sept.). In the space of only a few years each has become a leading industry event in Asia. 

Focusing on the user and the digital economy, ’tools’, Messe Berlin’s new trade fair format all about web-based business applications, will debut on 7 and 8 May 2014. This new platform has the user firmly in its sights, and in particular the growing importance of IT for line managers and their specific demands.

Besides these events Messe Berlin will be organising other outstanding trade fairs for the industry in 2014. They include bautec (18 - 21 Feb.) – the International Trade Fair for Building and Construction Technology, laser optics 2014 (18 - 20 March) - the International Trade Fair and Congress for Optical Technologies and Microsystems, YOU 2014 (27 - 29 June) - the leading event for Young People, the fashion show PANORAMA BERLIN (8 - 10 July), belektro 2014 – the Trade Fair for Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Lighting (15 -17 Oct.), Bazaar Berlin 2014 (formerly the Import Shop), the Consumer Trade Fair for Handicrafts, Design and Natural Goods from Around the World (12 - 16 Nov.) and HIPPOLOGICA Berlin – the International Exhibition for Equestrianism (11 - 14 Dec.).

In 2014 Messe Berlin expects its numerous events to attract around 30,000 members of the media from all over the world, who will be providing written and broadcast coverage of the events taking place on the Berlin Exhibition Grounds.

Westin Hotels & Resorts to debut in Mauritius

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. will soon introduce its Westin Hotels & Resorts brand to the island of Mauritius. 

The Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa, Mauritius is scheduled to open in spring 2014. The resort will enjoy a pristine beachfront location in the historic Turtle Bay of Balaclava – the former breeding grounds of the Mauritian green sea turtle – on the North West coast of Mauritius, offering captivating views on the turquoise waves of the Indian Ocean. 

Nestled in lush tropical gardens and surrounded by sugarcane fields and mountains, the 190 beautifully appointed guest rooms, including 38 suites, will be designed to embrace the natural beauty of the resort’s unique scenery. All rooms will feature the renowned Westin Heavenly Bed®, the brand’s Heavenly® Shower, Heavenly® Robe and exclusive White Tea Aloe bath amenities, as well as the latest in-room technology. The Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa, Mauritius will also offer five dining venues, including an all-day dining restaurant, two specialty restaurants, a pool restaurant and bar, as well as a lobby lounge. 

The Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa, Mauritius will feature nearly 340 square meters of ultra-modern event space, including a ballroom, two meeting rooms and a fully-equipped business center, making it the perfect getaway for weddings, special occasions or small incentive meetings. Guests can find total relaxation at The Heavenly Spa by Westin™ offering an array of treatments dedicated to well-being, take a rejuvenating swim in one of the two swimming pools or exercise at WestinWORKOUT® where state-of-the-art equipment for optimum cardio and weight training, steam rooms, saunas and jacuzzis are at disposal. 

Other signature Westin amenities will include the SuperFoods RX™ menu designed to treat guests to exceptional food combinations rich in nutrients, antioxidants and flavour, as well as the Westin Kids Club® that allows families to indulge in services, amenities and meals customised to the needs of their little ones. 

“The signing of The Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa, Mauritius further underscores Starwood’s commitment to growing our portfolio across all of our nine brands in Africa,” said Bart Carnahan, Senior Vice President Acquisitions & Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa & Middle East. “On track to open its 200th hotel in 2014, Westin has created unwavering guest loyalty and tremendous enthusiasm among owners and developers around the world.” 

The Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa, Mauritius is located only 15 kilometers from the island's hub, Grand Baie, which is known for its shopping, restaurants, bars and nightlife. The Marine Nature Park is adjacent to the resort and provides an excellent alternative for those wishing to enjoy a leisurely stroll through relaxing and scenic surroundings. 

Starwood currently operates two resorts in Mauritius, including The St. Regis Mauritius, which is located directly on the world-famous “One Eye” kite-surfing spot and the pristine white beaches at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Le Morne, and Le Méridien Ile Maurice, which is located on the North West coast bay of Pointe Aux Piments.

The Best Way to Meet and Network with Your Targeted Buyers

The U.S. Embassy and the U.S. Commercial Service in Beijing are pleased to announce the next 2014 China Golf Show/ PGA Merchandise Show to be held March 14-16, 2014 in Beijing, China at the China National Convention Center
China Golf Show/PGA Merchandise Show - China is the sourcing and networking event covering the entire supply chain in China which is endorsed by the CGA, PGA, GCSAA, GCBAA, ASGCA and other leading associations.
With over 20,000 visitors, 480 exhibiting brands, and 32,000 sq. meters of exhibition space, the event keeps you ahead of your competition by offering you the cost-effective platform to Showcase your latest products and services, get market updates, find new partners, and meet buyers and trade professionals including general managers, assistant general managers, directors of golf, superintendents, distributors, facility owners and real estate developers.
       Exhibitor Profile       Visitor Profile
  • Golf Course Architecture & Design
  • Golf Course Maintenance Equipment
  • Fertilizers, Chemicals & Biological Products
  • Driving Range Equipment
  • Golf Facility Management Systems & Products
  • Golf Course Executives
  • Golf Course GMs and Assistant GMs
  • Superintendents & Turf
  • Maintenance Staff
  • Real Estate Developers
  • Distributors
  • Media

PRICE LISTZone A (RMB)Zone B (RMB)Zone C (RMB)Zone D (RMB)
Space Price
Raw Space (per sqm)2,5002,0001,8501750
Shell Scheme(per sqm)3,1002,3002,1502,050
Other Costs
Corner Fee (per corner)1,0001,0001,0001,000
E-marketing Fee (per exhibitor, Compulsory)3,0003,0003,0003,000
E-marketing Fee (per exhibitor, upgraded)5,0005,0005,0005,000
* Remarks: The above price does not include value-added tax (VAT) 6%.

PRICE LISTZone A (RMB)Zone B (RMB)Zone C (RMB)Zone D (RMB)
Volume Discount
36-80 sqm  -5%5%  -
81-150 sqm  -10%10%  -
Above 151 sqm  -15%15%  -
Special Discount
For AGS13 Exhibitors ONLY5%5%5%5%
Discount Policy:
Discount is calculated based on raw space price only

ERA’s new board members add to association’s expertise

Arni Gunnarsson, managing director, Air Iceland and Bart Matusewicz, VP operations & maintenance, Eurolot, have been elected to the ERA board, further strengthening the association’s expertise and reach.

Gunnarsson and Matusewicz have joined the ERA board at the start of a busy year which will have a strong focus on communicating and defending the association’s members’ concerns to Europe’s regulatory and policy decision makers.

An experienced lobbyist on behalf of Air Iceland, Gunnarsson’s has a clear understanding of the issues that face some of Europe’s more remote regional airlines. Air Iceland has to operate under harsh environmental conditions, a challenge not always recognised or understood by European regulators. Gunnarsson says that he aims to focus on: “Assessing current and new regulation with the aim of improving Europe’s regulatory frame work.”

Matusewicz has over 15 years’ experience in the travel industry and is firm in his belief that European regional airlines have a critical role to play in connecting businesses within Europe. As a board member Matusewicz plans to focus on ensuring that ERA members can access more practical help both inside the organisation and within Europe.
“I also believe the future ERA board must help regional airlines assess their business strategies and search for more profitable models as market consolidation increases and big players from the Middle East enter our market,” explains Matusewicz.


Simon McNamara, Director General ERA, adds: “The appointment of Árni Gunnarsson and Bart Matusewicz to the board increases the range and experience of an already strong, influential and effective board. I am looking forward to working with them and us

Hilton San Juan Collection Hotels Launch "Wing It To Paradise" Promotion For Groups Including Complimentary Flights


SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico - With the "Wing it to Paradise" promotion, the Hilton San Juan Collection of Puerto Rican hotels rewards groups who book by April 30, 2014 for travel in 2014 with free flights, Hilton HHonors points, complimentary room nights, upgrades, amenities, welcome drinks and more. Vibrant, diverse, and naturally beautiful, the Collection, comprised ofCaribe HiltonCondado Lagoon Villas at Caribe HiltonThe Condado Plaza Hilton, and El San Juan Resort & Casino, offer a different meeting locale for the myriad types of meetings but always the right place, the right space, and the right team to ensure it's a success.

As part of the "Wing it to Paradise" promotion, groups who book a minimum of 200 room nights receive one complimentary flight for every 100 room nights up to five total flights. Smaller groups, staying between 10 and 199 room nights, receive 3 percent rebate per room night, double HHonors Meeting Planner points, one complimentary room night per 35 room nights paid, and one upgrade and amenity per 35 room nights paid at group rate. In addition, El San Juan Resort & Casino and The Condado Plaza Hilton offer groups traveling midweek two complimentary room nights for a pre-planning meeting, double HHonors Meeting Planner points, one complimentary room night per 35 room nights paid, one complimentary upgrade per every 35 room nights paid at group rate, and one "Rums of Puerto Rico" welcome drink per attendee.

The Hilton San Juan Collection of Puerto Rican hotels are all easily accessible to U.S. residents - no passport needed - via the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport. With more than 270 miles of white-sand beaches, balmy temperatures throughout the year, tropical flavors and rhythms and a rich cultural heritage, Puerto Rico is considered one of the top Caribbean destinations to host meetings and events.

Cruise Holidays Reveals Top 10 List of Tips for First-Time Cruisers


Minneapolis, There is more to booking a cruise than meets the eye and a recent survey of Cruise Holidays agents offers a revealing list of things first-time cruisers should not forget to do – ranging from before they book to important day-of-departure matters. The data, along with the most popular types of shore excursions being booked by travel agents at Cruise Holidays International, are part of a second wave of results from Cruise Holidays’ 2014 Cruise Trendssurvey.* Cruise Holidays is a network of cruise-specialty travel agencies based in North America, and its cruise experts across the United States and Canada participated in the survey.
Cruise Holidays agents were asked, “Do you have any top tips for someone who is about to book their first cruise?” The number one response by a significant margin was to heed the advice of a professional travel agent. “Our cruise experts have heard countless horror stories from clients who were burned by a ‘too good to be true vacation deal’ or who ended up on the wrong kind of cruise because they didn’t get proper advice before the trip,” said Kevin Weisner, Senior Vice President, Cruise Holidays International. “Some people think ‘Do-It-Yourself’ translates to savings, but the facts don’t support that thinking.”
“As for the second most important tip from our experts, the variety in dining and entertainment aboard large cruise ships has reached nearly dizzying heights. What first-time cruisers may not realize is that due to the popularity of these cruise amenities, you can’t always expect to just walk up and be seated,” added Weisner. “Our cruise agents can counsel their clients on exactly when and how to book these ‘can’t miss’ opportunities. With blockbuster shows such as Chicago, Hairspray, Rock of Ages andBlue Man Group rolled into the price of their cruise, it would be a shame to miss out due to a lack of proper planning, and the same goes for the specialty dining, which is often provided at a nominal cover charge.”
The third most urgent tip for first-time cruisers is to book at least some shore excursions in advance. Travel agents can often provide a wider array of options than what is offered by the cruise line, and they use tour or activity providers that have been thoroughly vetted for safety, quality and price.
Here is the Top 10 list of tips for first-time cruisers, according to Cruise Holidays International:

Ranking

Tip
Percentage of Responses
1
Book the cruise using a professional travel agent
23.6%

2
Reserve specialty dining, onboard entertainment and spa appointments as early as possible to avoid disappointment
14.6% 
3
Book some shore excursions before leaving for your cruise (use a travel agent for best variety/additional options)
10.1% 
4
Ensure legal documents are in order, including passports and visas (or other necessary I.D.)
9.0% 
5 (tie)
Get to know layout of ship as soon as possible to make the most of your time onboard
5.6% 
5 (tie)
Plan to arrive at least one day in advance of cruise departure
5.6% 
7
Choose the cruise vacation that’s best for you, not just the lowest price
4.5% 
8
Complete cruise ship online check-in early; don’t wait until day of departure
3.4% 
9 (tie)
Make sure to allow for some free time – you don’t need to schedule full-day excursions for every port of call
2.2% 
9 (tie)
Budget for extras such as shore excursions, beverages and gratuities
2.2% 
9 (tie)
Purchase travel insurance when you book the cruise
2.2% 

Cruise Holidays agents were also asked to identify the most popular types of shore excursions they book, and “general sightseeing tours” ranks first. However, vacationers may be surprised to learn about the diversity of options available. “With activities such as swimming with dolphins, local culinary experiences and even flight-seeing all landing in the top ten, it shows the variety of resources at our agents’ fingertips – they may be able to help arrange the excursion that makes the trip one the client will never forget,” added Weisner. “Some activities are heavily restricted in terms of number of participants, so only a select few guests will be able to enjoy some of the more dramatic trips. But no matter what kind of shore excursion clients choose, they are better off making arrangements in advance instead of waiting in line aboard the ship – that time would be better spent enjoying oneself.”


Ειδήσεις Εν Συντομία



Ελληνοαμερικανικό Επιμελητήριο: Διοργάνωση B2B τουριστικής συνάντησης

  • Το Ελληνοαμερικανικό Επιμελητήριο (HACT) μετά τη επιτυχία της εκδήλωσης δικτύωσης Ελλήνων επιχειρηματιών και κορυφαίων Αμερικανών Tour Operators, που διοργάνωσε στην Αθήνα και τη Θεσσαλονίκη, τον Απρίλιο του 2013,  αναγγείλε τo νέo “B2B Ultimate Tourism Business Event”, που θα πραγματοποιηθεί από 3 έως 6 Φεβρουαρίου 2014, στην Αθήνα.

  • Σημειώνεται ότι 11 εκατ. Αμερικανοί ταξιδεύουν στην Ευρώπη κάθε χρόνο, ξοδεύοντας κατά μέσο όρο 2.500 ευρώ έναντι 600 ευρώ του Ευρωπαίου ταξιδιώτη. Δεδομένου ότι από τα 11 εκατ. Αμερικανών ταξιδιωτών, μόνο οι 300.000 επισκέπτονται την Ελλάδα, πρωτοβουλίες ενίσχυσης της ταξιδιωτικής κίνησης, όπως αυτή του HACT, δημιουργεί σημαντικές προοπτικές ανάπτυξης των ελληνοαμερικανικών τουριστικών σχέσεων με σημαντική ενίσχυση της εθνικής μας οικονομίας.


Οι κρουαζιέρες είναι η Νο1 προτεραιότητα για τους εύπορους τουρίστες
Έρευνα για τις τάσεις στα ταξίδια πολυτελείας για το 2014 από την Travel Leaders Group δείχνει ότι οι κρουαζιέρες επιλέγονται από εύπορους  τουρίστες, οι οποίοι αναζητούν υψηλού επιπέδου ταξιδιωτικές εμπειρίες. Συγκεκριμένα, δύο από τους τρεις κορυφαίους προορισμούς πολυτελείας διεθνώς είναι οι κρουαζιέρες, οι κρουαζιέρες σε ευρωπαϊκά ποτάμια και οι κρουαζιέρες στη Μεσόγειο.
Ακόμα, τα στοιχεία της έρευνας δείχνουν ότι πάνω από το 86% των ταξιδιωτικών πρακτόρων τουρισμού πολυτελείας που ρωτήθηκαν, δηλώνουν ότι οι κρατήσεις για πολυτελή ταξίδια είναι μεγαλύτερες ή ίσες με τις κρατήσεις πέρυσι και ότι ο πιο σημαντικός παράγοντας σε αυτού του είδους ταξιδιού για τους τουρίστες είναι τα πολυτελή καταλύματα

 Επιτυχές το 2o Travel Massive Athens
Η δεύτερη συνάντηση του τουριστικού κλάδου στην Αθήνα - Travel Massive Athens -πραγματοποιήθηκε την Τρίτη 28 Ιανουαρίου, στο Impact Hub Athens στο κέντρο της Αθήνας. Η εκδήλωση διοργανώθηκε από το Travelplanet24 και το Dopios, μέσα από τη διεθνή κοινότητα του Travel Massive, η οποία δίνει την ευκαιρία να διοργανωθούν εκδηλώσεις τοπικού χαρακτήρα για τη γνωριμία και ανταλλαγή απόψεων διαφόρων ταξιδιωτικών και τουριστικών επιχειρήσεων, travel bloggers και δημοσιογράφων.
Οι συναντήσεις TravelMassive Athens ξεκίνησαν το Σεπτέμβριο του 2013 και θα πραγματοποιούνται κάθε 4 μήνες, με σκοπό να δίνεται η ευκαιρία σε επαγγελματίες του χώρου να ανταλλάσουν τις απόψεις τους και να παρουσιάσουν καινοτόμες ιδέες των δραστηριοτήτων τους.

Η Ελλάδα πρώτη σε διανυκτερεύσεις σε τουριστικά καταλύματα στην ΕΕ το 2013
Τη μεγαλύτερη αύξηση διανυκτερεύσεων σε τουριστικά καταλύματα στην ΕΕ κατέγραψε το 2013 η Ελλάδα (11,7%), σύμφωνα με στοιχεία της Eurostat που δόθηκαν πρόσφατα στη δημοσιότητα. Το 2013 καταγράφηκαν 87,3 εκατ. διανυκτερεύσεις σε ελληνικά τουριστικά καταλύματα, εκ των οποίων το 79% αφορά αλλοδαπούς και το 21% Έλληνες. Σε σχέση με το 2012, οι διανυκτερεύσεις αλλοδαπών αυξήθηκαν κατά 13,2%.
Η Ελλάδα κατέγραψε την υψηλότερη αύξηση στην ΕΕ (11,7%) και ακολουθούν η Μάλτα (7,8%), η Λετονία (7,3%), η Βρετανία (6,5%) και η Βουλγαρία (6,2%). Οι περισσότερες διανυκτερεύσεις καταγράφηκαν στη Γαλλία, στην Ισπανία, στην Ιταλία, στη Γερμανία και στη Βρετανία. Τα πέντε αυτά κράτη-μέλη αντιπροσωπεύουν το 70% του συνόλου των τουριστικών διανυκτερεύσεων στην “ΕΕ των 28”.

 Lufthansa και Austrian Airlines συνεργάζονται με την Amadeus


H Lufthansa, η μεγαλύτερη αεροπορική εταιρία της Ευρώπης και εθνικός αερομεταφορέας της Γερμανίας, και η Amadeus, κορυφαίος τεχνολογικός συνεργάτης της παγκόσμιας ταξιδιωτικής βιομηχανίας, ανακοίνωσαν την περασμένη εβδομάδα τη σύναψη νέας συμφωνίας μέσα από την οποία η αεροπορική εταιρεία θα δίνει την δυνατότητα στα ταξιδιωτικά γραφεία να πραγματοποιήσουν κρατήσεις θέσεων ως βοηθητική υπηρεσία στο κανάλι των ταξιδιωτικών γραφείων χρησιμοποιώντας τη λύση Airline Ancillary Services της Amadeus. Η συμφωνία, η οποία ισχύει και για τη θυγατρική της Lufthansa και εθνικό αερομεταφορέα της Αυστρίας, Austrian Airlines, σημαίνει ότι τα ταξιδιωτικά γραφεία που χρησιμοποιούν το σύστημα της Amadeus σε 63 αγορές παγκοσμίως θα έχουν τη δυνατότητα να πραγματοποιούν κρατήσεις θέσεων για επιβάτες που ταξιδεύουν σε πτήσεις εσωτερικού ή σε Ευρωπαϊκά δρομολόγια εκ των προτέρων. Επιπρόσθετα, οι επιβάτες θα μπορούν να αγοράσουν θέσεις που προσφέρουν επιπλέον χώρο για τα πόδια σε Ευρωπαϊκές και διηπειρωτικές πτήσεις.

ΟΛΠ
Ο OΛΠ Α.Ε. με απόφαση του Διοικητικού του Συμβούλιου αποφάσισε στο εξής, αρχής γενομένης από τα αποτελέσματα του 9μήνου 2013, να συμπεριλαμβάνει και να αναρτά προς διευκόλυνση των μετόχων και συνοπτικό Πίνακα εσόδων – εξόδων κατά κλάδο. Η ανάρτηση του συνημμένου Πίνακα αφορά τα στοιχεία του οικονομικού απολογισμού του 9μήνου Ιανουαρίου-Σεπτεμβρίου 2013 και συμπληρώνει τα δημοσιευθέντα ήδη στοιχεία.

Απομάκρυνση πλοίων             
Δεκαέξι (16) ακόμα ανενεργά πλοία για απομάκρυνση ως επικίνδυνων και επιβλαβών ή λόγω ακινησίας από το Λιμάνι του Πειραιά αποφάσισε η Επιτροπή του Ν. 2881/01, απόφαση η οποία εγκρίθηκε από το Δ.Σ. του ΟΛΠ Α.Ε. Ήδη βάσει του Ν. 2881/2001 κλήθηκαν όλοι οι κύριοι των πλοίων να τα απομακρύνουν και αν δεν το πράξουν εντός του μηνός, ο ΟΛΠ Α.Ε. θα προκαλέσει την εκποίησή τους μέσω ανοιχτού πλειοδοτικού διαγωνισμού.

Λιμάνια και ιδιωτικοποιήσεις


Τις απόψεις του για τη λιμενική βιομηχανία και τις ιδιωτικοποιήσεις εξέφρασε πρόσφατα ο επικεφαλής της πολιτικής ομάδας της Προοδευτικής Συμμαχίας Σοσιαλιστών και Δημοκρατών στο Ευρωπαϊκό Κοινοβούλιο κ. Χάνες Σβόμποντα κατά τη συνάντηση του με τη Διοίκηση του ΟΛΠ Α.Ε., η οποία προηγήθηκε της κύριας συνάντησης του με τα Δ.Σ. των συνδικαλιστικών εκπροσώπων των εργαζόμενων στα λιμάνια και των λιμενεργατών.
Ο κ. Χάνες Σβόμποντα, ο οποίος συνοδευόταν από την ευρωβουλευτή κ. Συλβάνα Ράπτη και στελέχη του Ευρωκοινοβουλίου, υπογράμμισε τη θέση για τις συμπράξεις του δημοσίου και του ιδιωτικού τομέα ως κρίσιμου κρίκου της διαδικασίας οικονομικής ανάπτυξης. Τόνισε ότι οι ιδιωτικοποιήσεις είναι ένα δύσκολο εγχείρημα και ότι η επιτυχία τους έγκειται στην αποδοχή τους από την κοινωνία και τα συνδικάτα: «Σε κάθε περίπτωση είναι γνωστό ότι οι απόψεις μου για την τρόικα είναι αρνητικές. Καμιά όμως απόφαση δεν μπορεί να ληφθεί αν αυτή είναι αντίθετη με τις προτάσεις της Ευρωπαϊκής Επιτροπής και τις αποφάσεις του Ευρωπαϊκού Κοινοβουλίου». Τόνισε, για μια ακόμα φορά, ότι τα λιμάνια στην Ενωμένη Ευρώπη αποτελούν μηχανές ανάπτυξης και ότι μέσα από τη σύμπλευση του δημοσίου και του ιδιωτικού τομέα στα πλαίσια των αρχών του ευρωπαϊκού λιμενικού συστήματος θα οδηγηθεί και το ελληνικό λιμενικό σύστημα σε τροχιά ανάπτυξης.

Προηγουμένως ο πρόεδρος και δ/νων σύμβουλος του ΟΛΠ Α.Ε. κ. Γιώργος Ανωμερίτης και τα επιτελικά στελέχη του ΟΛΠ Α.Ε. (κ. κ. Π. Πετρουλής, Στ. Χατζάκος, Α. Μαμαγκάκης, Θ. Καρλής) παρουσίασαν  στον Πρόεδρο κ. Χ. Σβόμποντα τα οικονομικά δεδομένα και τις προοπτικές ανάπτυξης του Λιμένα Πειραιά, καθώς και τις γνωστές απόψεις της Ένωσης Λιμένων Ελλάδος για τη μεταρρύθμιση του ελληνικού λιμενικού συστήματος στα πλαίσια πάντα της ευρωπαϊκής λιμενικής αγοράς.

Αύξηση 3,34% παρουσίασε η διακίνηση επιβατών κρουαζιέρας

       
 Η διακίνηση επιβατών κρουαζιέρας στα 42 λιμάνια υποδοχής κρουαζιερόπλοιων παρουσίασε αύξηση 3,34% το 2013 έναντι του 2012, σύμφωνα με τον πίνακα στοιχείων της Ένωσης Λιμένων Ελλάδος (ΕΛΙΜΕ).
        Όπως προκύπτει από τα αναλυτικά στοιχεία των Οργανισμών Λιμένων, των Δημοτικών και Περιφερειακών Ταμείων και των Λιμεναρχείων, στα 42 λιμάνια κρουαζιέρας διακινήθηκαν 5.661.867 επιβάτες με 4.288 αφίξεις κρουαζιερόπλοιων, έναντι 5.478.620 επιβάτες και 4.753 κρουαζιερόπλοια του 2012.
     Από τα αναλυτικά στοιχεία προκύπτουν ότι:
1.      Παρότι τα πλοία ήταν λιγότερα οι επιβάτες ήταν περισσότεροι. Αυτό κυρίως συνέβη λόγω της αντικατάστασης από τις εταιρίες κρουαζιέρας των μικρότερης χωρητικότητας πλοίων με μεγαλύτερα και νέας γενιάς πλοία, άνω 300 μ. μήκους.
2.      Τα στοιχεία διαφέρουν από τα λογιστικά στοιχεία καταμέτρησης στα λιμάνια, παρουσιάζοντας μόνο τις αφίξεις, χωρίς τις αναχωρήσεις, με εξαίρεση το homeporting, βάσει και του συστήματος υπολογισμού της MedCruise.
3.      Τα σκήπτρα και με μεγάλη διαφορά κατέχει όπως και τα προηγούμενα χρόνια ο Πειραιάς με 1.302.581 επιβάτες ή άνοδο 7.83% στις αφίξεις και 11,10% στις αφιξοαναχωρήσεις, αύξηση δηλαδή πολύ μεγαλύτερη του μέσου όρου.
4.      Διαπιστώνεται μια στροφή εταιριών κρουαζιέρας σε νέους προορισμούς όπως το Γύθειο (αύξηση 520%), η Ζάκυνθος (αύξηση 506%), η Θεσσαλονίκη (αύξηση 82%), η Κως (αύξηση 57%), η Μυτιλήνη (αύξηση 42%), ο Βόλος (αύξηση 82%), η Ηγουμενίτσα (αύξηση 154%) και η Καβάλα (αύξηση 61%). Στους νέους προορισμούς με σημαντική συμμετοχή τα τελευταία χρόνια πρέπει να προστεθούν και τα Χανιά, η Πάτμος, η Κεφαλονιά και ο Άγιος Νικόλαος Κρήτης. Αντίθετα μικρή μείωση παρουσίασαν “κλασσικοί” προορισμοί, όπως η Σαντορίνη (-7,25%), η Μύκονος (-10,65%) και η Ρόδος (-13,19%).

 5. Όπως δείχνουν όλα τα στοιχεία για το 2014, ο αριθμός των αφίξεων πλοίων στα 42 λιμάνια θα είναι μειωμένος με μικρές αποκλίσεις όμως στον αριθμό των αφιξοαναχωρούντων επιβατών. Όπως είναι γνωστό η αστάθεια στην Ανατολική Μεσόγειο (Αίγυπτος, Ισραήλ, Συρία και πρόσφατα Τουρκία) επηρεάζει έντονα το προϊόν του θαλάσσιου τουρισμού στην περιοχή. Θα πρέπει τέλος, να διαπιστωθεί ότι ορισμένοι παραδοσιακοί προορισμοί λόγω έλλειψης υποδομών (Σαντορίνη, Μύκονος) έχουν ήδη υπερκαλύψεις στις αφιξοαναχωρήσεις πλοίων.


ΣΤΟΙΧΕΙΑ ΚΡΟΥΑΖΙΕΡΑΣ 2013 ΣΥΝΟΛΙΚΑ ΧΩΡΑΣ




2013
α/α ΠΡΟΟΡΙΣΜΟΙ    Αριθμός αφίξεων κ/ζ Αριθμός αφίξεων επιβατών κρουαζιέρας
(χωρίς αναχωρήσεις)
1 ΠΕΙΡΑΙΑΣ 711 1.302.581
2 ΣΑΝΤΟΡΙΝΗ 582 778.057
3 ΚΑΤΑΚΟΛΟ 307 763.966
4 ΚΕΡΚΥΡΑ 480 744.651
5 ΜΥΚΟΝΟΣ 485 587.501
6 ΡΟΔΟΣ 373 409.991
7 ΗΡΑΚΛΕΙΟ 177 270.020
8 ΚΕΦΑΛΛΟΝΙΑ 100 135.659
9 ΧΑΝΙΑ 47 124.205
10 ΠΑΤΜΟΣ 177 113.339
11 ΚΩΣ 86 64.756
12 ΓΥΘΕΙΟ 40 48.200
13 ΑΓ.ΝΙΚΟΛΑΟΣ 52 43.817
14 ΜΥΤΙΛΗΝΗ 56 42.423
15 ΣΑΜΟΣ 25 38.676
16 ΖΑΚΥΝΘΟΣ 34 34.143
17 ΝΑΥΠΛΙΟ 54 23.732
18 ΒΟΛΟΣ 31 20.227
19 ΘΕΣΣΑΛΟΝΙΚΗ 18 14.585
20 ΛΑΥΡΙΟ 20 13.504
21 ΜΟΝΕΜΒΑΣΙΑ 29 11.621
22 ΧΙΟΣ 33 9.924
23 ΣΥΡΟΣ 37 9.396
24 ΙΤΕΑ 88 8.141
25 ΠΑΡΟΣ 88 7.071
26 ΚΑΒΑΛΑ 14 6.995
27 ΛΗΜΝΟΣ 19 4.777
28 ΗΓΟΥΜΕΝΙΤΣΑ 14 4.650
29 ΠΥΛΟΣ 13 4.133
30 ΣΥΜΗ 16 3.715
31 ΣΚΙΑΘΟΣ 11 3.158
32 ΚΑΛΑΜΑΤΑ 6 3.128
33 ΜΗΛΟΣ 9 2.962
34 ΡΕΘΥΜΝΟ 5 1.336
35 ΠΑΤΡΑ 2 1.278
36 ΝΑΞΟΣ 16 1.023
37 ΣΗΤΕΙΑ 1 910
38 ΠΡΕΒΕΖΑ 4 908
39 ΚΥΘΗΡΑ 20 862
40 ΑΝΔΡΟΣ 1 727
41 ΣΚΟΠΕΛΟΣ 6 645
42 ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟΥΠΟΛΗ 1 474

ΣΥΝΟΛΟ: 4.288 5.661.867