Best In Travel Magazine Issue 28 // May 2015

MIDDLE

EAST SPECIAL Arabian Ultra-Luxury

28 ISSUE

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// Best in Travel magazine

Welcome to the latest edition of

BEST IN TRAVEL MAGAZINE Welcome the latest edition of Best in Travel magazine where we take a look at the rapidly developing hospitality and aviation scenes in the Middle East. With four of the most exciting airlines on earth – Etihad, Emirates, Qatar Airways and Oman Air – all vying for supremacy it has never been a better time to be a luxury traveller.

At the same time, the hospitality sector continues to go from strength-to-strength.

We bring you the latest news from Dubai, which recently welcomed new properties from Taj Hotels, and Jordan, where Rotana welcomes The Boulevard Arjaan.

In honour of the World Travel Awards, which this month launches its 22nd Grand Tour in Dubai, we will also be investigating some of the destinations on the itinerary this year. Singapore, Turks & Caicos, Colombia, and that perennial luxury tourism favourite Seychelles all come under the spotlight as we bring you the latest from each destination.

I hope you enjoy what we have on offer and wish you bon voyage on your travels for another month.

Graham Cooke Publisher, Best in Travel Magazine

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Let us show you the warmhearted Omani hospitality Let us bring joy with our exciting activities Let us create a memorable stay for the entire family Let us leave you with ecstatic memories

Experience our GCC summer package to create fond memories for the entire family. For reservations and more information about our package, call 968-2476-4205 or email Reservations.Albustan@ritzcarlton.com or visit ritzcarlton.com/albustanpalace

Rates start from OMR 90. Rates are per room per night, single or double occupancy and inclusive of service charge and tax. Offers are subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. Valid until September 23, 2015. Offer does not include Eid period. ©2015 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company.

Welcome to The Residence by Etihad.

Check in to the most exclusive address in the sky: the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first three-room private suite onboard our new A380, designed for up to two guests. Relax in the living room of The Residence, freshen up in the ensuite bathroom or rest in your own separate bedroom while having your every need catered to by a personal Butler and an inflight Chef. Only one airline could have created this remarkable travel experience.

Flying Reimagined. etihad.com

#reimagined

BEST IN TRAVEL /// MIDDLE EAST SPECIAL

Best in Travel spotlight on:

MIDDLE EAST HOTELS Boom times have truly returned to the Middle East accommodation market, with the resurgent luxury sector increasingly joined by a rapidly developing mid-tier sector. Here Best in Travel chooses some of our favourite properties from the past year.

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Middle East Hotels

boasting residential, entertainment and business outlets. In close proximity to the capital’s major attractions and main venues, the hotel marks the ideal location for travellers looking for a comfortable and luxurious stay in the city. The property adds 391 fully furnished and serviced apartments to Rotana’s portfolio of over 12,000 hotel rooms across 19 cities in the Middle East, Africa, South Asia and Eastern Europe.

There are presently 626 hotels totalling 147,680 rooms under contract in the Middle East/Africa region, according to the March 2015 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report. This represents a 7.6-per cent year-over-year increase in contracted rooms compared to the same time last year, while rooms under construction are up 22.6-per cent over the period.

The region reported 77,924 rooms in 315 hotels under construction for the month.

Among the region’s key markets, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, reported the largest number of rooms under construction with 14,385 rooms in 49 hotels. Three other markets reported more than 5,000 rooms under construction: Doha, Qatar (6,612 rooms in 24 hotels); Makkah, Saudi Arabia (5,936 rooms in ten hotels); and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (5,477 rooms in 21 hotels).

Rotana Hotels & Resorts - considered the Middle East’s Leading Hotel Brand by the World Travel Awards - is taking advantage, continuing to expand with the opening of The Boulevard Arjaan

by Rotana, its first property in Jordan.

Located in the heart of Abdali, the new downtown of Amman, The Boulevard Arjaan by Rotana is situated at The Boulevard, a mixed-use development

“We are extremely proud to be opening Rotana’s first property in Jordan, which is a milestone for our company. The Boulevard Arjaan by Rotana will pass on the Rotana values and promise of exceptional service and Treasured Time to the Jordanian market and will meet the expectations and the demands of travellers seeking first-class service and accommodation at a central location,” said Omer Kaddouri, president, Rotana.

The Boulevard Arjaan by Rotana offers customised and personalised service, meeting the professional and personal needs of its travelling customers, including three conference rooms, Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club and two rooftop swimming pools overlooking the scenic hills of Amman.

Visitors and residents also have the chance to embark on an unforgettable culinary experience at Café Italia, a contemporary Italian-themed restaurant offering mouth-watering dishes made with authentic flavours. A second outlet, Café Margaux, which is a stylish café presenting a fresh take on classics with a broad range of beverage options, will open in September 2015.

Here in Dubai, Taj Group recently announced the opening of its highly anticipated luxury hotel Taj Dubai, located in the prestigious Burj Khalifa downtown area. The Taj group,

established in 1901, is a pioneer and market leader with 128 hotels, resorts and palaces spanning sixty four locations in India and fifteen international locations in four continents.

“We are delighted to enhance the nobility of Indian heritage and hospitality in one of the world’s most vibrant cities. With its distinctive design, responsibly appointed amenities and warm service culture, Taj Dubai aspires to become a preferred address for discerning guests,” said Rakhee Lalvani, director, public relations, Taj Group.

Accommodation at Taj Dubai includes a total of 296 rooms: comprising Taj Club Rooms, 16 Junior Suites and 15 Luxury Suites with panoramic views

of Burj Khalifa, dancing fountains and Dubai Mall. The hotel offers state of the art rooms seamlessly blending contemporary elegance while paying homage to the local environment.

Taj Dubai houses two lavish suites. The Maharaja Suite, inspired by opulent Maharaja’s palaces in Rajasthan including a picturesque roof terrace of the 33rd floor of the hotel. The Presidential Suite, with its fine balance of understated elegance and opulence, measuring 680 square meters, occupies the entire 35th floor, with its own fitness suite and yoga room. Taj Dubai also features its exclusive Members’ only Private Club for the first time outside of India. Chambers has been created to suit the needs of today’s discerning business traveller and membership is by invitation only.

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BEST IN TRAVEL /// MIDDLE EAST SPECIAL

Best in Travel spotlight on:

MIDDLE EAST AVIATION

Airlines in the Middle East continue to disrupt the status quo in international aviation, with Oman Air increasingly joining the established trio at the top table. Here Best in Travel brings you the highlights from the past year.

Etihad Airways - recognised last year as the Middle East’s Leading Airline by the World Travel Awards - has once again been leading the way, with the addition of both the Airbus A380 and Boeing Dreamliner 787 to its fleet since World Travel Awards last visited the region.

Launched in December on the Abu Dhabi-London route, the new Airbus A380 is home to The Residence by Etihad, the first three-room suite in skies.

It features a living room, separate ensuite shower, and bedroom, and as another first in the airline industry, a dedicated Butler. Measuring 125 square feet in total, The Residence is located on the forward upper deck of the A380 and is

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for single or double occupancy. Etihad will take delivery of four further A380s in 2015.

On board the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner Etihad is welcoming guests to the allnew First Suite. The new class offers guests an enhanced suite with chilled mini-bar, complete privacy and centre seats which can be joined to create a double bed. Rolled out on the service to Dusseldorf earlier this year, Etihad Airways will take delivery of and three more Boeing 787as this year.

In a competitive region, Qatar Airways has also been developing new facilities, taking off from the new Hamad

International Airport last year. The historic move will enable passengers to enjoy a comprehensive Qatar Airways’ five-star experience at the world’s newest international gateway.

“The move of our entire operations to HIA is a momentous occasion for Qatar Airways, and one that we have been preparing for extensively for a long time.

Our move to HIA heralds a new beginning for Qatar Airways, as we will now be based in a world-class hub that has been entirely designed to meet the needs and expectations of even the most discerning passengers,” said Qatar Airways chief executive, Akbar Al Baker.

With the capacity to handle 8,700 customers per hour, HIA will provide a seamless, hassle-free experience to passengers, from check-in to passport control and boarding. The HIA

Middle EAST AVIATION

next three years, resulting in Oman Air achieving profitability by the end of 2017.

Passenger Terminal Complex will house a total of 138 check-in counters across five islands, including 108 counters for Qatar Airways Economy passengers and all other airlines, 16 counters dedicated to Qatar Airways Business Class travellers and 14 luxury, bespoke, seated check-in counters for Qatar Airways First Class passengers.

by chief executive Paul Gregorowitsch and include the continuation of Oman Air’s ambitious expansion strategy, together with the launch of a stringent efficiency programme, entitled ‘Shape and Size’. This will see the airline make cost savings of RO100 million over the

“The ten year strategy of Oman Air has been prepared, and has been thoroughly evaluated and assessed. It focuses mainly on fleet and network expansion, and on boosting revenues so as to reach breakeven and hence attain profitability. At the same time, we will continue to provide the very best, highly distinguished services and ensure that our valued customers remain our top priority,” said Gregorowitsch.

As part of the plan Oman Air - which was last year recognised as the Middle East’s Leasing Airline – Business Class - has launched new flights to Goa and Singapore, with Dhaka to follow later in the year.

Here in Dubai, Emirates has reached the top 200 of the world’s biggest brands for the first time, according to the 2015 Brand Finance Global 500 report. For the fourth consecutive year, Emirates has steadily climbed the table of the Top 500 most valuable brands in the world. Now sitting at #196, an increase of 38 spots in just 12 months, the airline attributes its success to a strong commitment to product and service excellence, as well as investments in its brand. Emirates’ estimated brand value has grown more than 21 per cent from US $5.48 billion to US $6.6 billion. The airline also retains its long standing position as the most valuable brand in the Middle East, and the most valuable airline brand.

“Emirates is a global company serving a global audience, and as we grow our business we have to also grow our brand.

Our brand strategy does not only involve marketing and sponsorships, but everything we do including product innovation and service delivery. For us, our customers are the ultimate judges and jury. Being named the most valuable airline brand in the world is great recognition for each and every one of our staff, as they are the ones who live, breathe and deliver the Emirates brand every day in the work they do,” said Tim Clark, president Emirates Airline.

Finally, the increasingly assertive Oman Air has unveiled its plan to ‘be the best’.

The proposals were recently set out

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BEST IN TRAVEL /// MIDDLE EAST SPECIAL

FOUR SEASONS RESORT DUBAI welcomes World Travel Awards Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach welcomes the World Travel Awards, with hundreds of industry leaders from across the region in attendance for the red carpet evening.

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Four Seasons Resort Dubai

Set on a pristine, natural beach, Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach blends Arabic design with cool, contemporary style – creating an atmosphere of light, sophisticated luxury. The 237 ultra-spacious rooms – including 49 suites – offer views of the Arabian Gulf on one side and Burj Khalifa and the downtown skyline on the other. The perfect place for the elite of the Middle Eastern tourism sector to toast the leaders among them.

The five-star hotel is home to ten restaurants and lounges, including the Mercury Bar, host to tonight’s celebration, as well as one of the city’s most lavish spas, three swimming pools and fun family activities. With a warm, comfortable attitude and legendary personalised service, Four Seasons is redefining the Dubai luxury hotel experience.

World Travel Awards, too, is no stranger to luxury, celebrating its 22nd year in 2015. For more than two decades the organisation has sought the very best in international hospitality, recognising excellence wherever it can be found.

The World Travel Awards brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of quality, with winners setting the benchmark to which all others aspire.

The annual programme is renowned as the most prestigious and comprehensive in the travel and tourism industry. In 2014, over 650,000 individual votes were cast by travel professionals and high-end tourism consumers.

Welcoming guests World Travel Awards President Graham Cooke said: “It is an honour for World Travel Awards to welcome our winners to the Four Seasons Resort Dubai; the property is truly one of a kind and has come to define the luxury hospitality sector in Dubai.”

Since opening in late 2014, Four Seasons Resort Dubai has established a leading reputation among luxury connoisseurs.

Light, fresh and airy, the guest rooms and suites at the hotel set the tone for a sophisticated resort experience. Ultraspacious and with lofty ceilings, the guest rooms start at 70 square metres including the balcony, positioning them among the largest in Dubai. Large windows and sliding doors highlight views of the lush palm-treed gardens, the swimming pools, the beach and the sea, or – equally appealing – the impressive Dubai skyline, including Burj Khalifa.

The very definition of luxury.

MORE INFORMATION For more information on Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach visit www.fourseasons.com/dubaijb or head over to www.worldtravelawards.com.

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BEST IN TRAVEL /// MIDDLE EAST SPECIAL

ETIHAD TAKES ABU DHABI HOSPITALITY TO THE WORLD 18

INTRAVELMAGAZINE.COM

Etihad takes Abu Dhabi hospitality to the world

Etihad Airways – which began operations in 2003 – has continued to soar in recent months, fully growing into its role as the standard bearer of the United Arab Emirates.

Last year the carrier welcomed more than 14 million passengers, with the figure increasing annually for over a decade as Etihad adds an ever growing number of destinations to its global portfolio.

The airline launched services to ten new destinations in eight countries last year – Los Angeles, Dallas, San Francisco, Rome, Zurich, Medina, Yerevan, Jaipur, Phuket and Perth – and increased capacity on 23 existing routes.

The latest additions were however just the tip of the iceberg, with Etihad currently flying to more than 100 destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia and the Americas.

Etihad also has one of the most modern fleets in the skies, with 116 luxurious Airbus and Boeing aircraft in operation. At the same time, the airline is realising its ever expanding ambitions, with more than 200 aircraft on firm order, including 69 Boeing 787s, 25 Boeing 777-X, 62 Airbus A350s and eight Airbus A380s.

The launch of the airline’s first Airbus A380 and first Boeing 787, along with its new cabin crew uniform, received an overwhelming response from the public, leading to a major increase in online brand awareness.

On social media alone, the Etihad Airways brand garnered more than 150 million impressions throughout the world in a two-week period after the launch of the new planes.

Most recently, Etihad added a touch of glamour to its operations, welcoming Nicole Kidman as global spokeswomen. Kidman is both star and narrator of a captivating feature, which was shown on global TV stations and social media in both 60 and 30 second formats, with still versions of the campaign appearing in print, digital and on outdoor channels.

The ad was shot on-board Etihad Airways’ new flagship Airbus A380 – home to The Residence by Etihad – and in locations around the world, including various landmarks in Abu Dhabi. www.etihad.com

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Dubai

Best in Travel spotlight on:

DUBAI

Dubai is continuously enhancing its offerings both in the short- and long-term, with the emirate increasingly a top choice among leisure and business travellers from across the globe. Here Best in Travel brings you the top attractions from this bustling destination.

Dubai is known as the shopping capital of the Middle East, drawing large crowds from the Middle East, Europe and even Asia. Take a deep breath when you step into the narrow alleyways of the Spice Souk, located in Deira. Savour the atmosphere and aroma of the past as you are introduced to the mounds of aromatic herbs and spices spilling from large baskets at every turn. You’ll find bags of spices, incense, rose petals, and traditional medicinal products stacked outside each stall.

Modern shopping malls and boutiques are also found in the city, including the Dubai Mall, one of the largest in the world.

The Dubai Shopping Festival is a month-long festival held during month of January each year. During the festival the entire emirate becomes one massive shopping mall.

Additionally, the festival brings together music shows, art exhibitions, and folk dances.

An essential part of any trip to Dubai is a visit to the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building by a considerable margin. You can sip a cocktail in At.mosphere, the world’s highest restaurant, while gazing in awe at the sweeping views across Dubai’s futuristic landscape. At the same time, the Burj Al Arab’s

distinctive sail-shaped silhouette has made it an iconic symbol of modern Dubai. Often voted the world’s most luxurious hotel, the Burj Al Arab is one of the region’s most famous tourist landmarks. Built on a triangular man-made island, the billowing sail-like structure rises 321 metres above the sea and the hotel’s atrium lobby is the tallest in the world.

Dubai has also been keen to promote itself as a yearround destination, with its beaches, attractions, hotels and experiences enjoyed not only in the cooler months, but also in summer – a season that boasts

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great-value offers and discounts, a plethora of events and a host of indoor family entertainment activities. With summer also currently coinciding with the Islamic holy month of Ramadan and the subsequent Eid Al Fitr festival there is always something to see.

The Dubai Creek, which flows between Bur Dubai and Deira, is the historic focal point of Dubai, signifying where trade with the outside world began more than a century ago. When you visit Dubai Creek, be sure to take a traditional abra water taxi from one side to the other to fully experience how Dubai Creek

defines the city. The shimmering water, traditional dhows, historic houses, modern buildings, and lively souks and maritime trade will give you a first-hand view of Dubai’s development into a global commercial hub.

Dubai is one of the great world centres of horse racing, and a huge spectator sport – some races can pull in crowds of over 100,000. The most famous is The Dubai World Cup, an annual thoroughbred horse race held at the Meydan stadium.

Finally, despite the climate, Dubai’s golf courses are as green and as immaculate as you’ll find anywhere in the world. The

nine-hole, par 36 Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa hosts the world’s best players as part of the official curtain raiser to the European PGA Tour event, the Dubai Desert Classic. Each hole is uniquely landscaped with exotic trees, shrubs and original desert flora. A saltwater lake comes into play on five holes, whilst peacocks roam freely around the fairways.

MORE INFORMATION For more information on visiting Dubai take a look at visitdubai.com.

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EUROPCAR GETS A FLYING START IN 2015 Continuing its successful Fast Lane transformation plan, car rental giant Europcar has seen a significant increase in total revenue for the fourth quarter in a row.

Total revenue amounted to â&#x201A;Ź413.7 million in the first quarter of this year, compared to â&#x201A;Ź374.2 million in same period last year, representing an increase of 10.6 per cent. Excluding favourable exchange rate effects, the revenue growth reached 7.4 per cent, including

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French franchisee integration effects.

Every corporate country contributed to the overall growth of revenues.

Rental day volumes increase of 10.4 per cent in the first three months of the year when compared to 2014, with

an especially good momentum in the UK, Italy and Spain. The sustained favourable trend on price for leisure segment was more than offset by the business segment notably due to an increasing share of car replacement. As a result, revenue per day declined by

// Europcar gets a flying start in 2015

1.9 per cent at constant exchange rates, showing an improving trend compared to quarter four of 2014.

This strong performance over the last four quarters is the result of a revitalisation of both leisure and business segments in every country, supported by the Fast Lane commercial initiatives. In particular during quarter one of this Europcar continued to foster international demand with the signing of six additional agreements with Global Sales Agents and of one contract with a new partner in Japan.

Europcar also expanded its range of mobility products for leisure customers with the launch of ‘Keddy by Europcar’,

dedicated to tour operators, travel agents and brokers. At the same time Europcar - which is this evening nominated for the title of Middle East’s Leading Car Rental Company - also pursued the improvement of customer journey with the launch of ToMyCar in the UK. Thanks to this app, Europcar customers can book, unlock and drive their hire car using their smartphone.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Europcar has strengthened its corporate governance with the establishment of a supervisory board and a management board. The management board consists of Philippe Germond, chairman of the management board and chief executive

of the Group, Caroline Parot, Europcar group chief financial officer, Ken McCall, managing director of Europcar UK and Fabrizio Ruggiero, managing director of Europcar Italy. The full governance, including operational, will be announced shortly.

The group has also decided to create a specific entity, called the ‘Europcar Lab’, designed to foster innovation and improve customers’ mobility.

Establishing the Lab is a key milestone that will help Europcar further develop its portfolio of innovations in mobility.

The Europcar Lab is led by Fabrizio Ruggiero, and is in charge of new mobility services, and includes a group of experts who are focused on the design and prototyping of innovative leading edge solutions and closely monitoring market opportunities.

The first illustration of Europcar Lab seizing market opportunities is Europcar’s recent acquisition of a majority stake, alongside the founders, in Ubeeqo, a French start-up specialising in car-sharing and pioneer and leader of the business market.

27

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FORTE VILLAGE UNDERGOES OVERHAUL ...as World Travel Awards prepares for Europe Gala Ceremony

Forte Village - which will host the World Travel Awards Europe Gala Ceremony 2015 on September 5th - has embarked on its latest improvement programme as it seeks to maintain its leading position in the Sardinian tourism sector. Here we bring you all the latest.

The award-winning Forte Village has put its cards on the table for 2015, undergoing a total rebirth thanks to an ambitious and detailed renovation project. The process was begun last year at the Hotel Castello, which saw the refurbishment of its Executive Mare rooms and the creation of Presidential and Imperial Suites. The Hotel Castello refurbishment, which will be completed this summer, signals the way forward for the wide ranging works which have already begun to touch every aspect

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of the most exclusive destination in the Mediterranean.

The Forte Village is a gated private place set in 47 acres of gardens and parkland which border the beach.

Following the paths through the dense flora of the resort guests can find the completely redesigned new Deluxe Bungalows, which are more luxurious, spacious and comfortable than their predecessors. Family Bungalows are also being refurbished at the Hotel Palme, the Borgo and the Hotel Bouganville, where there are also the new Deluxe Bungalows. All bungalows are sunny and have a porch which leads to a private garden.

Overlooking the crystal Mediterranean waters of south Sardinia, the Forte Village reaches new heights of luxury

and elegance. For summer 2015, three exclusive private villas, which represent independence, beauty and freedom, will be added, each totally immersed in a garden with a private swimming pool and surrounded by colourful flowers and Mediterranean floral scents. To seduce visitors, the open spaces provide contact with nature and its regenerating peace; the colours, from ivory and sand, pay tribute to the light of the sea and the softness of the beach, while the refined decor shows the artistic expression of contemporary interpreters of the great artisan traditions of Sardinia. Each villa offers magnificent bedrooms with king size beds, and sumptuous bathrooms with both shower and bathtub for absolute comfort. Completing the design, lounges with the possibility of sofa beds, reading corners and places to relax overlooking the garden. All villas

Forte Village undergoes overhaul

have a functional kitchen and dining room. To make a stay unique, dedicated butler services and personal chefs are available on request.

FORTE AQUA SPA

The Forte Aqua Spa, with its famous Thalasso pools, will undergo a major transformation this year with the addition of portable covers so that it can remain open year round.

Thalassotherapy is the therapeutic use of sea water to accelerate detox as it is the most effective, natural and complete aid to wellness and inner harmony. The Spa will also open a new branch of sports medicine.

At the Forte Village, the younger guests - aged five-to-16 - have the pleasure of playing, training and honing their talent alongside leading coaches and star champions of tennis, rugby, netball and, from this year, the Killerspin Table Tennis Academy. Welcome to the extraordinary Forte Village Sports Academies. Let's start with one of the world's great passions, football. Every summer Forte Village plays host to the highly successful Chelsea Football Club soccer school, run by coaches from the famous English team. There are courses to play in every position, training sessions and matches with the chance

for kids to wear their favourite strip.

Not forgetting the Tennis Academy, by Rocco Loccisano, the legendary trainer of Wimbledon winner Pat Cash. And, of course, the Rugby Academy, with stars of the calibre of Austin Healey and Will Greenwood. Another popular success is the Cricket Academy. The new Killerspin Academy of Forte Village gives guests the opportunity to learn and practice Ping Pong, a sport which entertains and brings the whole family and friends together around a table.

MORE INFORMATION Forte Village - a collection of high-profile hotels, where the beauty of nature, charm and well-being come together - is set against the magnificent background of the south-west coast of Sardinia. The high quality services together with the captivating beauty of the surroundings have made of Forte Village the ideal destination for families, couples and all those looking for relaxation, sport and fun at competitive levels.

Forte Village is considered the Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Resort by the World Travel Awards.

For more information head over to www.fortevillageresort.com.

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SPARKLING SARDINIA

SPARKLING SARDINIA awaits World Travel Awards The jewel in the Italian tourism crown, Sardinia, will welcome World Travel Awards in September when Forte Village hosts the Europe Gala Ceremony 2015. Here Best in Travel visits this majestic island to see what guests can expect to find.

A voyage over an emerald sea, past characteristic coves and beaches of snow-white sand, this is Sardinia, an island that strikes its visitors with natural contrasts, the lights and colours of a region that boasts old traditions and a wild and pure nature. Situated in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, Sardinia is a mainly mountainous region, without high peaks, with a vast and charming, yet bittersweet,

natural environment. In fact, the presence of man does not seem to affect this territory; great surfaces still preserve their natural composition, luxuriant woods with even millenary trees, small desert areas and marshes inhabited by deer, wild horses and birds.

The sea reigns over this region with its colours that migrate into the coves, along the coasts,

towards the beaches and the most popular resorts. An example is the Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast) with Porto Cervo set as its gemstone and uniting the history and culture of ancient traditions with a joyful and colourful nightlife.

Porto Cervo was named after its enchanting cove that resembles the antlers of a deer; the Old Port is considered the bestequipped touristic port in the

41

SPARKLING SARDINIA

Mediterranean Sea. Porto Rotondo is also a famous location; it overlooks the wide Gulf of Cugnana and is full of villas and piazzas swathed by such a splendid natural environment as this.

Those who prefer the mountains can explore the area of Gennargentu, the vastest mountain range in Sardinia; with its peculiar landscape, it proves that the loveliest painter of them all is Mother Nature herself.

Among its wonders, Sardinia offers the visitor the Nuragic complexes scattered all over the territory. These monuments are unique to the world, testifying to an ancient culture that, though it endured from the sixteenth to fifteenth centuries BC still remains rather mysterious. The Nuragic constructions were built using great blocks of stone and developed around a central cone-shaped tower that communicates strength and power. These are archaeological sites where it is possible to grasp the archaic charm of ancient rituals and domestic life.

Of these many constructions, the Barumini complex, in the province of Cagliari, is among the sites in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Sardinia combines sea and nature with folk traditions, mysticism and curiosities, like the mysterious giantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tombs, ancient caves dug out of the ground and scattered around the region, just like the Nuragic constructions; and Domus de Janas (or the "House of Witches") in Sulcis Iglesiente. These stone towers are the biggest and best-preserved megalithic monuments in Europe; the most important town with Nuragic traces is Su Nuraxi di Barumini near Cagliari.

MORE INFORMATION For more on visiting Sardinia head over to the official tourism website at www.italia.it.

43

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HEADED FOR SEYCHELLES

Seychelles will host the World Travel Awards later this year, when Kempinski Seychelles Resort Hotel welcomes the Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2015. But there is a great deal on offer in the destination away from the pristine beaches. Here we take a tour of this unique destination.

Seychelles comprises 115 islands occupying a land area of 455 km² and an exclusive economic zone of 1.4 km² in the western Indian Ocean. It represents an archipelago of legendary beauty that extends from between four and ten degrees south of the equator and which lies between 480 kilometres and 1,600 kilometres from the east coast of Africa. Of these 115 islands, 41 constitute the oldest mid-oceanic granite islands on earth while a further 74 form the low-lying coral atolls and reef islands of the Outer Islands. The granite islands of the Seychelles archipelago cluster around the main island of Mahé, home to the international airport and the capital, Victoria, and its neighbouring islands of Praslin and La Digue. Together, these Inner Islands form the cultural and economic hub of the nation and contain the majority of Seychelles’ tourism facilities as well as its most stunning beaches.

The Seychelles’ climate is one which is always warm and does not reach extremes of heat or cold. The

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temperature rarely drops below 24°C or rises above 32°C. All but the remotest southern islands lie outside the cyclone belt making Seychelles’ a year round destination for sun worshippers and beach lovers. It is generally cooler when the north-west trade winds blow during the months of November to March. The sea is generally calm and the weather warm and humid, with average winds of 15-22 kilometres per hour. A larger amount of the annual rainfall falls during the months of December to February compared to other months.

CULTURE

The cosmopolitan Seychellois are a colourful blend of peoples of different races, cultures and religions. At different times in its history, people of African, European and Asian origin have come to Seychelles, bringing with them their distinct traditions and customs and contributing to the way of life and to the vibrant Seychellois culture.

One can see these influences at work throughout the domains of local art, cuisine, music, dance and

headed for Seychelles

architecture. The architectural design of some of the grand old houses with their steep roofs are representative of a style adapted for comfortable living in the tropics that displays influences from Seychelles’ French and British colonial heritage. Modern architecture attempts to assimilate traditional styles with practical features designed to capture the island breezes.

simple drums and string instruments which, today, include such recent imports as the violin and guitar. The traditional moutya is an erotic dance derived from the days of slavery and still features today, together with the sega with its colourful lyrics; the kanmtole, reminiscent of a country reel, and the Kontredanse, an import from the French court.

policies that have resulted in an enviable degree of protection for the environment and the varied ecosystems it supports. Nowhere else on earth will you find unique endemic specimens such as the fabulous Coco-de-mer, the largest seed in the world, the jellyfish tree, with only eight surviving examples, the Seychelles’ paradise flycatcher and Seychelles warbler.

Local artists continue to exhibit diverse styles that echo the multiethnic backdrop of the islands and bear testament to the various influences which have come to bear. Creole music and dance have their roots in African, Malagasy and European cultures with rhythms traditionally accompanied by

Seychelles is a living museum of natural history and a sanctuary for some of the rarest species of flora and fauna on earth. With almost half of its limited landmass set aside as national parks and reserves, Seychelles prides itself on its record for far sighted conservation

NATURE

Seychelles is also home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Aldabra, the world’s largest raised coral atoll and Praslin’sVallée de Mai, once believed to be the original site of the Garden of Eden. From the smallest frog to the heaviest land tortoise and the only flightless bird of the Indian Ocean, Seychelles nurtures an amazing array of endemic species within surrounds of exceptional natural beauty.

MORE INFORMATION For more information visit the Seychelles Tourism Board at www.seychelles.travel.

49

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Best in Travel interview:

TATIANA PIÑEROS LAVERDE

DIRECTOR GENERAL, DISTRICT INSTITUTE OF TOURISM OF BOGOTÁ

Visitor numbers to Bogotá have doubled in under a decade as the Colombian capital develops a reputation as a leading destination to do business. Ahead of the city’s host of the World Travel Awards Latin America Gala Ceremony later this year, Best in Travel sits down with Tatiana Piñeros Laverde, director general, District Institute of Tourism of Bogotá to discuss the secrets behind its recent renaissance.

BEST IN TRAVEL: Bogotá has been explicit in its plans to establish itself as a sustainable destination by 2015; how close to achieving this ambition is the city?

TATIANA PIÑEROS LAVERDE: In recent years, public planners have begun to recast Bogotá’s social and economic development in a way that does not endanger the natural resources of future generations.

The current zoning and environmental management policy, called ‘Human Bogotá’, which is part of the

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City Development Plan, is designed to confront climate change. The plan explicitly sets forth the aim of becoming “a territory which confronts climate change and which organises itself around sustainable water usage”.

There has also been collaboration with the private sector to achieve permanent reductions in waste, recycling of as many materials as possible, and manufacturing practices oriented toward longterm recycling.

Tatiana Piñeros Laverde

As for the sustainability of tourism, the Mayor’s Office is aware of the growth of the tourism industry in Colombia, especially in Bogotá, the primary tourist destination in the country, and of the added strain this might impose on diminishing natural resources. This has led us to pose a series of questions in search of better practices and sustainable solutions for the conservation of the very features, tangible and intangible, which attract tourists to the Colombian capital in the first place.

The District Tourism Institute of Bogotá, which is part of the Mayor’s Office, has been working together with the business community, as well as the broader community of citizens in general, to design solutions to mitigate climate change, in line with the Mayor’s public policy. For example, the Institute has been working on the recovery and protection of watersheds and natural springs in order to make the city a more sustainable and liveable place for citizens and tourists alike. In particular, the Agrotouristic routes of La Requilina and Los Quiches are two initiatives which, with government support, have successfully integrated the interests of local communities in the dynamics of the tourism economy, and which raise

awareness among foreign visitors about the importance of protecting the city’s natural heritage. The initiative also serves to set a clear boundary between urban and rural zones, and to preserve the customs and traditions of the rural farming communities.

than 190 tourism service providers obtain certification.

The Tourism Quality and Sustainability Program supports tourism service providers seeking certification in these

Another project along the lines of new sustainable tourism products is the ‘Natural Treasures’ initiative. Bogotá is an immense metropolis. Indeed, it is one of the largest and most populated cities in Latin America. In spite of this, Bogotá is endowed with rich natural resources, as reflected in the Eastern Cordillera

matters through training, capacity building, and consultancy activities.

The Program also leverages contracts between the providers and the certifying agency. To date, this has helped more

and the páramo of Sumapaz, which is the largest high savannah in the world.

There are also more than 4,000 parks within the city, most notably the Parque Simon Bolivar, Parque Entrenubes, and

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LATIN AMERICA CEREMONY 2015 Bogotรก, Colombia ~ 10th October 2015 worldtravelawards.com

“THE OSCARS OF THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY” WALL STREET JOURNAL

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BEST IN TRAVEL ///

the Mirador de los Nevados, as well as wetlands and other important natural attractions. Currently, Seven Natural Treasures have been identified in Bogotá. This is the first step in defining clear guidelines for the development of eco-friendly tourism in the capital.

Finally, as regards the prevention of sexual exploitation of children and adolescents, the Institute has designed a strategy to strengthen tourism businesses and service providers in their responsibility as a first line defence against such abuses in Bogotá. So far, 59 service providers, including restaurants, hotels, travel agencies, transportation agencies, and tour guides, have been certified as agents of prevention.

60

high value added sectors, which in turn generates employment and improved competitiveness, which in turn attracts more investment, and so on, in a virtuous circle.

Internationally, Bogotá is looked upon favourably as a sustainable, competitive destination in the tourist market. It’s worth mentioning that 43 per cent of the tourists who visit Bogotá do so for business reasons.

BIT: International visitors now regard Bogotá as a safe destination to visit after a recent opening to global investment. In what ways is this change helping to develop the tourism infrastructure in the city?

Bogotá is often mentioned as one of the main business centres of Latin America, together with the likes of Miami, Sao Paulo, Mexico City, Santiago, and Panama City. In its last annual ranking, América Economía magazine ranked Bogotá as the sixth best city to do business in Latin America.

Bogotá offers big investment opportunities, and for this reason there are currently more than 1,494 multinational corporations, mainly from the US, Spain, France, Chile, and Germany, that maintain a business presence in the Colombian capital.

TPL: Bogotá enjoys a number of advantages deriving from several important inherent qualities such as: international trade agreements, geostrategic location and accessibility, skilled bilingual labour, competitive costs, and an excellent business climate and investment incentives - to name but a few. These qualities attract foreign investment in

The current level of foreign direct investment demonstrates a high degree of international confidence in Colombia; and the number of tourists continues to grow year after year as a consequence of this. Roughly USD$11.5 million have been invested in Bogotá over the last ten years, 53 per cent of which has gone into the service sectors, four

INTRAVELMAGAZINE.COM

Tatiana Piñeros Laverde

per cent of which has gone into hotels and tourism, thereby generating about 40,000 direct jobs in Bogotá.

The upshot is that there has been a big increase in the number of international tourist arrivals. Back in 2005, we used to receive 400,000 international tourists per year. Just eight years later, in 2014, we received more than a million.

BIT: La Candelaria, the key tourism area of Bogotá, has recently aimed to extend opening its hours and foster a more international flavour. Can you bring us up to date with developments there?

TPL: An effort is underway to extend hours of attention in Bogotá’s historic centre, known as La Candelaria. For example, every month there is an organised cultural event called ‘La Candelaria Awake’ night, where the restaurants, businesses, art galleries, and museums in the historic district stay open until very late at night. The neighbourhood definitely has potential, with 136 tourist attractions, over 300 restaurants, and the largest open air jewellery handicrafts market in South America.

Given its cultural richness, and the history told by its colonial architecture,

La Candelaria has always been at the heart of the Colombian tourism industry. The District Tourism Institute has supported these qualities, which are of high value added from a cultural perspective, and in terms of the preservation of customs and traditions.

Along these lines, several touristic products have been developed with the specific goal of preserving this heritage and of making it more accessible to tourists.

BIT: Bogotá is set to host the World Travel Awards Latin America Gala Ceremony 2015 later this year – welcoming the organisation to the country for the first time. Can you tell us a little about how this came about and what your ambitions are for the event?

TPL: In 2013, for the first time, Bogotá had an institutional presence at the

World Travel Awards Gala Ceremony.

Those representing Colombia at this event took advantage of the opportunity to establish their first public relations connections through the vice presidency of the Organization, and informally proposed that Bogotá be the host of the Latin American awards event. Not long thereafter, Bogotá was nominated as the best city for business travel in Latin America, and this significantly raised the prospects of Bogotá being selected as the host of the 2015 awards.

This is a perfect opportunity to raise and consolidate Colombia’s profile as an attractive destination for business travellers and tourists, and to show the world why Bogotá is a city of infinite possibilities, and why it is one of the best tourist destinations in Latin America.

This event will increase hotel occupancy and tourist arrivals in Colombia, and will give Bogotá access to a broader market of some 90 million potential customers worldwide. The district Tourism Institute, the tourism associations, and Bogotá as the Latin American WTA host city, are working hard not only to make this gala event an unforgettable night, but also so that attendees can enjoy the best that Bogotá has to offer, whatever their particular interests may be. And so we invite you to come and see for yourself that Bogotá is a city standing tall, a city of infinite possibilities.

MORE INFORMATION For more on visiting Bogotá head over to the official tourism website at www. bogotaturismo.gov.co.

61

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TURKS & CAICOS

Barbados, St Barts and Mustique might boast the highest number of celebrities per square mile in the Caribbean, but it is the paradise islands of Turks & Caicos that take the crown for the region’s most beautiful beaches.

The most famous stretch of oceanfront is the legendary Grace Bay. Its powdery-white sands sweep along the north-eastern fringes of Providenciales, the main island. The beach gently slopes into the ocean, which reveals colours so vivid no postcard could do them justice. Though just 90 minutes by plane from Miami, Turks & Caicos has played a canny game in remaining just beneath the tourism radar, meaning those that discover this tropical castaway will find deserted beaches and unspoilt coral reefs.

Unlike some other Caribbean islands, Turks is not just a strip of land crammed with flash hotels, but a nation of indigenous character and home to historic towns and villages which look like something out of a pirate movie. Pleasures are pure and simple here.

You’ll spend your days on the beach, snorkelling

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and generally soaking up the sun. You might also be tempted to charter a private yacht and spend a day or two exploring the many deserted islands.

The entire archipelago is blessed with fine dive spots, many as close as ten minutes from shore.

The turquoise waters turn a deep blue just a few hundred metres from shore, and plunge over 2,000 metres into the abyss. The west reef wall attracts an amazing array of aquatic life, including whales, dolphins, manta ray, giant turtles and sharks – and you’ll spot colonies of black coral, rare forms of anemone, purple sponges, endless forms of coral, and thousands of fish.

Providenciales offers some of the best bone fishing in the world year round. Embark on an expedition with an expert local guide who’ll take you to the

Turks & Caicos

best spots to find this swift and clever fish. Hunting the silver ghost in the shallow flats and crystal clear waters.

Turks & Caicos has no pretensions to be Las Vegas of the Caribbean but it is home to two low-key casinos. The Casablanca Casino is located in the heart of Grace Bay, and offers a range of games and slots machines in a friendly atmosphere.

Children with the widest smiles on their faces are found at Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Village & Spa â&#x20AC;&#x201C; host to World Travel Awards in September this year for the Caribbean & North America Gala Ceremony 2015. Features at the family favourite all-inclusive include a 45,000 square-foot waterpark, three magnificent villages, a 12-mile beach lapped by clear turquoise waters; endless

fun activities for everyone, from tots to tweens and teens.

MORE INFORMATION For more information on visiting Turks & Caicos please take a look at the official website at www.turksandcaicostourism. com.

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BEST IN TRAVEL ///

BEACHES TURKS & CAICOS Named as host for World Travel Awards Caribbean & North America Gala Ceremony 2015 The ‘Oscars of the travel industry’, World Travel Awards has announced Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa has been selected to host the World Travel Awards Caribbean & North America Gala Ceremony 2015.

Hundreds of industry leaders are expected to gather at the world-class resort for the event, which will take place on October 17th, 2015. Beaches Turks & Caicos is the perfect host for the ceremony, offering four magnificent villages, boasting the architecture and ambiance of Italy, France, the Caribbean and Key West; a 12-mile beach lapped by clear turquoise waters; and some of the industry’s leading event facilities in the Caribbean.

Announcing the decision, World Travel Awards President Graham Cooke said: “I am delighted World Travel Awards will

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be returning to Beaches Resorts, and in particular to Beaches Turks & Caicos. The team at the resort allowed us to host one of our most successful events ever when we last visited in 2012 and I look forward to being reunited with our friends there later in 2015."

Beaches Resorts is no stranger to World Travel Awards, having been recognised as the World’s Leading All Inclusive Family Resort Brand for the past 17 years, while parent Sandals Resorts International claimed the title of World’s Leading All Inclusive Company for an unprecedented 19th time in 2014.

“It’s an honour to host the annual World Travel Awards once again,” said Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, Chairman of Sandals Resorts International. He added: “We are thrilled to welcome our friends and industry leaders to the beautiful Beaches Turks & Caicos where they will enjoy the Luxury Included experience, as well as our newest addition, the Key West Luxury Village.”

Hailed by the worldwide media for its role in identifying and rewarding excellence in the travel sector, World Travel Awards celebrates its’ 22nd anniversary in 2015 and is

Beaches Turks & Caicos

acknowledged as the ultimate travel accolade. World Travel Awards Gala Ceremonies are widely regarded as the best networking opportunities in the travel industry, attended by government and industry leaders, luminaries, and international print and broadcast media.

MORE INFORMATION With three spectacular locations in Turks & Caicos and Jamaica and soon a fourth in Barbados and a fifth in Antigua, Beaches Resorts is the ultimate getaway for every member of the family.

With outrageous waterparks, Xbox Play Lounge, the Scratch DJ Academy, exclusive Kids Camps, teen nightclubs, Certified Nannies, Butler service, Red Lane Spas, Aqua Centres with expert PADI certification and training; and free Wi-Fi, Beaches Resorts provides more quality inclusions than any other resort company on the planet.

As a proud sponsor of Sesame Street, Beaches Resorts also offers the Caribbean Adventure with Sesame Street, where kids can spend their vacation with their favourite friends from the Sesame Street gang with daily activities and weekly stage shows. Beaches Resorts are also the perfect place for family gatherings from reunions and special birthdays to FamilyMoons, Beachesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; signature destination wedding and vow renewal program. Beaches Resorts is part of family-owned Sandals Resorts International, which includes LuxuryIncluded Sandals Resorts and is the Caribbeanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading all-inclusive resort company.

For more information about the Beaches Resorts difference visit www.beaches. com.

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OFFICALLY THE BEST LUXURY RESORT SPA IN VIETNAM Named Best Luxury Resort Spa at The World Luxury Spa Awards 2014 and Vietnam's Leading Spa Resort at the World Travel Awards 2014, our HARNN Heritage Spa retreat is also well known for its beautifully designed and secluded over-water treatment rooms, perfect as a sanctuary for the body and soul. Our team of professionally-trained therapists and their skillful techniques will deliver each and every guest an ultimate personalized pampering and relaxation they well deserve.

Do you live an InterContinental life?

For more information or to make a reservation, please call +84 511 393 8888 or visit danang.intercontinental.com

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BEST IN TRAVEL ///

Best in Travel spotlight on:

SINGAPORE

Singapore is known as a bustling metropolis that also happens to be one of the cleanest and safest cities of its size in the world. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find historic sites like the Thian Hock Keng temple, superlative shopping, beautiful beaches and everything in between. Here Best in Travel takes a look around.

Tourism in Singapore is a major and growing industry, contributing an ever increasing amount to the Singaporean economy. The tiny destination - home to just five million people - welcomed more than 15 million tourists in 2014, breaking previous records. It is also environmentally friendly and maintains natural and heritage conservation programs. As English is the dominant

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on language it is easy for tourists to get around, while transport in Singapore covers most, if not all, public venues.

The Orchard Road district, which is dominated by multi-storey shopping centres and hotels, can be considered the centre of tourism in Singapore.

Other popular tourist attractions include the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari,

which allow people to explore Asian, African and American habitats at night without any visible barriers between guests and the wild animals. The Singapore Zoo has embraced the 'open zoo' concept whereby animals are kept in enclosures, separated from visitors by hidden dry or wet moats, instead of caging the animals.

Singapore

Marina Bay Sands, the integrated resort fronting Marina Bay, is also among the most popular sites. Developed by Las Vegas Sands, it is billed as the world's most expensive standalone casino property at S$8 billion, including cost of the prime land. With the casino complete, the resort features a 2,561room hotel, a 1,300,000-square-foot convention-exhibition centre, the 800,000-square-foot The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands mall, a museum, two large theatres, seven ‘celebrity chef ’ restaurants, two floating Crystal Pavilions, an ice skating rink, and the world's largest atrium casino with 500 tables and 1,600 slot machines. The complex is topped by a 340m-long SkyPark with a capacity of 3,900 people and a 150m infinity swimming pool, set on top of the world's largest public cantilevered platform, which overhangs the north tower by 67m. The 20-hectare resort was designed by Moshe Safdie Architects.

Jurong Bird Park is another zoological garden centred on birds, which is dedicated towards exposing the public to as much species and varieties of birds from around the world as possible, including a flock of one thousand flamingos. The tourist island of Sentosa, which attracts 19 million visitors in 2014, is located in the south of Singapore, consists of about 20–30 landmarks, such as Fort Siloso, which was built as a fortress to defend against the Japanese during World War II.

MORE INFORMATION To find out more about visiting this most exciting of destinations please take a look at www.yoursingapore.com.

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ASIA & AUSTRALASIA CEREMONY 2015 21st October 2015 ~ Raffles Singapore Hotel worldtravelawards.com

“THE OSCARS OF THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY” WALL STREET JOURNAL

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BEST IN TRAVEL ///

RAFFLES SINGAPORE revealed as host for World

Travel Awards Asia & Australasia Gala Ceremony

No trip to Singapore is complete without a stay at Raffles; tradition demands it. First opened in 1887, and since then a destination in its own right, Raffles Singapore epitomises the romance of the Far East â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an intoxicating blend of luxury, history and colonial ambiance that no other hotel can match. Immortalised by writers including Somerset Maugham, Rudyard Kipling, Ernest Hemingway and Alfred Hitchcock, Raffles is the perfect place from which to explore Singapore. Or in

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which to merely sit and watch the world go by. The legendary Palm Court, the white marble colonnades and the unique air of romantic grandeur transport you back to a more elegant age, while the seamless service, contemporary technology and attention to detail is completely of our time.

Liveried Sikh doormen usher guests through an ornate wrought-iron portico into a lobby that seems unaltered from the turn of the century. Stroll the

One of the most famous hotels anywhere on earth, Raffles Singapore, will welcome the World Travel Awards Asia & Australasia Gala Ceremony 2015 on October 21st. polished teak verandas past tropical gardens to suites with an elegant parlour, period furnishings, a bedroom that leads to a dressing room and en suite bathroom. Luxuriate in the history, in the scent of frangipani in the evening, in the Raffles Spa, or order room service

Raffles Singapore

from the legendary Raffles butlers.

Some 15 restaurants and bars also await; from the famous Long Bar, home of the Singapore Sling, to the Bar & Billiard Room, Raffles is alive with history, infused with atmosphere, and open to the moment. Conveniently close to the financial hub of this entrepreneurial city, Raffles makes business a pleasure, a luxury of leisure - and any visit an indelible memory.

Where the legend began, Raffles Singapore is exciting, enchanting and loved by those with an adventurous spirit and a taste for the very best; the perfect host for World Travel Awards.

MORE INFORMATION For 126 years Raffles has gone out of its way to give travellers the warmest welcome, the richest experiences and the fondest of memories. And today the legend continues all around the world.

From the classic colonial splendour of Raffles Singapore where it all began to Dubai, Seychelles, Cambodia, Paris, Beijing, Hainan, Makati and Makkah, the Raffles name is synonymous with luxury, glamour and extraordinary adventure. Each hotel is an oasis of calm and charm at the crossroads of a civilisation. Each is a carefully chosen destination in its own right. Each is uniquely, indefinably, sublimely Raffles.

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BEST IN TRAVEL ///

UNFORGETTABLE MARRAKECH

Historically, a trading post for Eastern and Western treasures, today the great city of Marrakech is an artistic crossroads, an international cultural centre and a “must-see” tourist destination.

Its surroundings are just as unforgettable.

From the splendour of the High Atlas Mountains towering over the city’s 19 km ochre ramparts, to the beauty of the Berber villages and the wonder of the Medina – each one of them has so much to offer that some visitors never leave.

In 1062, the first Almoravid emir, Youssef Ibn Tachfin, founded Marrakech and made it the capital city of an empire stretching from Barcelona to Ghana.

Five ways to unearth ten centuries

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of history include a walk in the rose garden surrounding the mosque and the minaret of the Koutoubia, a jewel of Hispano-Moresque art; the Bahia Arab-Andalusian palace with its gardens, patios, 150 richly decorated rooms, painted, gilded and inlaid wooden ceilings; the impressive Saadian Tombs, a magnificently decorated mausoleum; the Koranic school Ben Youssef Madrasa, formerly the biggest in northern Africa and another jewel of Hispano-Moresque art; and finally, right next to it, the

Marrakech Museum where treasures of Morocco’s cultural heritage and contemporary art exhibitions meet

THE HEART OF THE CITY...

Jemaâ El Fna Square was listed as an Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity site in 2001. As the gateway between traditional Morocco and modern Morocco, it is irreplaceable. The events organised for its recognition by UNESCO re-established the role it plays for Marrakech and Morocco. Worldwide,

Unforgettable Marrakech

it is a symbol of deep rooted modernity and tradition.

Located at the entrance of the Medina, in a huge enclosed pedestrian area lined with cafĂŠs, restaurants, shops and public buildings, the square is an explosion of culture, entertainment and commercial activity. It is alive late into the night, until the last lights go out and its pulsating nightlife goes quiet for a few hours. When morning comes, everything begins again; musicians, dancers, acrobats, fire-eaters, fortunetellers, henna tattooists, water carriers and storytellers reappear in their eyecatching costumes. They create, invent and share their knowledge of speech, movement and sound with their fellow citizens and with visitors from all over the world.

Marrakech, the Garden City The Palmeraie of Marrakech, which dates back to the Almoravids dynasty, is a heritage symbol of the Red City.

Covering 12,000 hectares, it is prized by local and foreign visitors. Over the years it has been subject to both internal and external soil erosion and degradation which has had impacted on the surrounding natural environment.

His Majesty King Mohammed VI has taken hold of this situation, by creating The Mohammed VI Foundation for the Protection of the Environment, chaired by HRH Princess Lalla Hasnaa.

One of the programmes initiated by this foundation aims to mobilise different stakeholders to safeguard this natural heritage.

Since the launch of this programme in 2007 and in accordance with the commitments of the partners, the rate of planting is on target: so far 412,552 seedlings have been planted and over the next six years, the foundation will continue to increase public awareness by running programmes and improving environmental education. This consists of plans to create an urban planning code of conduct and the creation of the International Living Museum, which will feature an oasis built around the three themes: Water, Gardens and Architecture.

The water system is over 700 years old

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BEST IN TRAVEL ///

and is located in the Menara in the Hivernage area. It irrigates a vast, yet peaceful garden lined with olive trees.

In the nearby Gueliz, the Majorelle Gardens, created in 1920 and later restored by Pierre Bergé and Yves Saint Laurent, provide a habitat for three hundred species of plants and house the Islamic Art Museum, which displays more than four hundred objects.

MARRAKECH, THE MUSE

Marrakech is an urban oasis. It knows how to make people feel welcome and inspired, and more and more creative adventurers favour Marrakech as their chosen place to share and develop inspiration.

The abundance of studios, art galleries, literary cafés and restaurants showcase the city’s appreciation of art, design, architecture, interior decoration, fashion, craftsmanship and gastronomy. Its atmosphere goes beyond the medina and the history of the city: it bubbles in the old colonial cities Gueliz, Hivernage and in the very trendy Sidi Ghanem “industrial area”, where the most audacious showrooms have opened celebrating the countries’ 1920s avantgarde urban planning and style.

From candied Moroccan orange, to meltin-the-mouth lamb dishes combining the country’s famed fragrant spices, British Chefs such as Jamie Oliver and Heston Blumenthal have been inspired to bring Moroccan cooking to their own restaurants.

COSMOPOLITAN MARRAKECH

Five-star accommodations such as Le Royal Mansour, La Mamounia and stunning guesthouses meet all the requirements for luxury travel in Marrakech.

Famous restaurants, designer boutiques, show-rooms, fairs and festivals highlight the city’s appeal when it comes to attracting investors or

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stimulating entrepreneurship.

Strategically, the priority now is to make such growth sustainable by combining it with the protection of the environment and with a development which will benefit the whole population.

‘Openness’ and ‘worldly’ are characteristics that run in Marrakech’s veins. People are sophisticated but they feel at ease here; they can recharge their batteries or party at any time.

GASTRONOMY

Marrakech gastronomy is famous for its outstanding “sweet and sour” flavours; from its saffron, cinnamon, cumin, chilli, ginger, mint and coriander aromas to its stewed meats and vegetable tagine.

For special occasions, elaborate recipes are selected such as preserved mutton with raisins and almonds, pastillas, minced beef or chicken briquettes. And to end the meal, sweet honey pastries transform mint tea for an experience of pure culinary ecstasy.

With culturally-influenced cuisine – be it Berber, Arabic, Jewish or Christian – Marrakech is open to all and invites the world to come and enjoy a multicultural experience from Moroccan and international chefs.

Unforgettable Marrakech

VALLEYS IN THE HIGH ATLAS

Continuing along the Ourika, go deeper into the Toubkal National Park and up the slopes of Mount Toubkal to the Oukaïmeden ski resort... The roads, which go through mountain passes from Tichka to Ouarzazate and from Test to Taroudant, reveal natural marvels such as the Zat Valley or the villages of Tighdouine and Talatast, Asni, Ouirgane and Imlil, and the lake Lalla Takerkoust.

Only a few dozen kilometres away from Marrakech, their landscapes and panoramas are a ‘must see’ for any visitor.

Gushing down the steep slopes of the High Atlas Mountains, rivers have carved out fertile valleys and given birth to dozens of Berber villages. More and more of these villages and their clay Kasbah are now being restored and embellished with botanical gardens. In the Ourika Valley, a visit to the Safranière reveals all the secrets of the “red treasure”, Saffron.

Used for fabric dying as well as in medicine and cooking, it is the most important aromatic and medicinal plant garden in Morocco.

SHOPPING

Marrakech’s souks hold 40,000 craftsmen organised into zones according to occupation: dyers, ironmongers, blacksmiths, leather workers, basket makers, jewellers...

Fabrics, clothes, rugs and spices are found here in a labyrinth of different markets.

Behind the cries, scents, crowds and bargaining games lies an extraordinary social structure.

There are souks... and there is Sidi Ghanem, Marrakech’s “industrial” area which has been reclaimed by new wave designers. In Sidi Ghanem, you can find contemporary crafts alongside traditional Moroccan design. Here, artists, decorators and craftsmen combine ancestral knowhow and international trends and exhibit in boutiques or show-rooms. They have approached all occupations – wroughtiron work, leather work, weaving, jewels, furniture, lights and lamps - in a unique way, reinventing the Moroccan art of entertaining.

In March, the Riad Art Expo Fair opens to professionals and the general public, to showcase Marrakech’s contribution to contemporary design.

For more information about Marrakech go to www.visitmorocco.com

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INDULGE AT Grand Hyatt Doha.

Celebrate unparalleled luxury at Grand Hyatt located on the shoreline of the West Bay Lagoon.

The hotel features balconies or terraces in all rooms, suites and villas showcasing breath-taking views of the Arabian Gulf.

The hotel offers extensive meeting and banquet facilities, a full-service business centre, the renowned Jaula Spa, a 400-metre private beach, indoor or outdoor pools and a broad selection of cuisines at our innovative outlets.

For reservations and more information call +974 4448 1234 Hyatt. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re More Than Welcome.

GRAND HYATT DOHA West Bay Lagoon, P.O. Box 24010 Doha, State of Qatar Facebook.com/GrandHyattDoha | doha.grand.hyatt.com HYATT name, design and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation. Š2014 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved.

1ST A N N UA L

10 SEPTEMBER 2015 TH

INTERCONTINENTAL DANANG SUN PENINSULA RESORT, VIETNAM

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“CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN SPA TOURISM”

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BEST IN TRAVEL ///

WORLD SPA AWARDS set for InterContinental Danang InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort has been revealed as the host for the inaugural World Spa Awards.

Organisers at the World Spa Awards, sister organisation the World Travel Awards, have confirmed the luxurious InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort will welcome leaders of the global spa industry on September 10th.

The event, the first of its kind, will allow voters from around the world to select

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Sun Peninsula Resort debut

the very best from this competitive industry. And what better place to begin? First open to guests on June 1st 2012 as the flagship of Intercontinental resort in Vietnam, the iconic Bill Bensley designed InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort redefines the definition of luxury in Danang

and throughout Vietnam and has received numerous international recognitions for its excellent service and beautiful architecture.

Hidden in the myth-filled hills of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Monkey Mountainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in the heart of the Son Tra Peninsula nature reserve, the

World Spa Awards

five-star InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort a work of art as much as a resort. Set in 37 hectares of stepped gardens leading down to a private beach – dramatic views of the sea can be enjoyed from all 197 rooms – every inch of this luxury resort is the stunning creation of the star architect’s unique design.

Gourmet travellers will appreciate La Maison 1888 (and its outstanding wine cellar) by multi-Michelin starred Michel Roux, while those looking for a genuine wellness retreat will love the HARNN Heritage Spa set in a private lagoon.

Travellers can treat tired feet to the ultimate pedicure by ‘podiatrist to the stars’ Bastien Gonzalez as global leaders put the world to rights at The Summit, the resort’s impressive conference centre.

Billed as the place “where myth meets luxury”, it’s an easy drive from InterContinental Danang to UNESCO world heritage sites of Hoi An, Hue and My Son (described as “Vietnam’s Angkor Wat”) making it a perfect base for travellers seeking an experience that connects them to central Vietnam.

MORE INFORMATION For more information, please visit www. danang.intercontinental.com.

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A-ROSA Kitzbühel

World Ski Awards set for a return to

A-ROSA KITZBÜHEL

World Ski Awards has revealed A-ROSA Kitzbühel will host its annual Gala Ceremony for the third consecutive year.

A-ROSA Kitzbühel will welcome industry leaders to the World Ski Awards on November 20th-22nd for a three day programme of unrivalled networking events, dinners, and exclusive ski experience activities. The highlight of the event will be the red carpet World Ski Awards Gala Ceremony 2015 itself on the evening of November 21st. Ski tourism figureheads and market leaders from North America, Europe, Asia, South America and Australasia will be in attendance as the World Ski Awards winners are unveiled.

The A-ROSA Kitzbühel is nestled among the Tyrolean Mountains against a magnificent Alpine backdrop. The view of the famous Hahnenkamm peak and the steep slopes is sure to take your breath away.

Sion Rapson, managing director, World Ski Awards, said: “In 2013 were made the decision to launch World Ski Awards in reaction to overwhelming demand from the ski industry for a programme that was fair and transparent. Our decision was richly rewarded in when

industry leaders from around the world joined us at A-ROSA Kitzbühel for our inaugural event. Last year World Ski Awards returned to A-ROSA Kitzbühel stronger than ever. The event was a phenomenal success and welcomed ski tourism leaders from across the world.

“As we begin our 2015 search we feel we have created programme with a mission to serve as the definitive benchmark of excellence, and to help to foster a new era of growth in ski tourism. This year we are aiming higher than ever, with our team

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“THE ONLY GLOBAL INITIATIVE TO RECOGNISE, REWARD AND CELEBRATE EXCELLENCE IN SKI TOURISM”

20-22 NOVEMBER 2015 A-ROSA KITZBÜHEL, AUSTRIA

worldskiawards.com

worldskiawards

A-ROSA Kitzbühel

presently scouring ski tourism destinations around the world in order to assess the countless nominations we have received.

When voting opens later this year, members of the ski tourism community will again have a chance to make their voices heard on this more prestigious of stages.”

As well as accolades for the best products from the world’s leading ski tourism nations, awards for the ‘World’s Best Ski Resort’, ‘World’s Best Ski Hotel’, ‘World’s Best Ski Chalet’, and ‘World’s Best Ski Boutique Hotel’ will be presented on the evening of November 21st.

Uwe Schramm, general manager at host hotel A-ROSA Kitzbühel said:

“The entire team and I are enormously proud that the A-ROSA Kitzbühel has again been selected as venue for this glamorous event.

He added: “Having hosted the international players and representatives from the finest ski hotels, chalets, boutique hotels and skiing destinations from all over the world at last year's event, we are now looking forward to welcoming back the figureheads and market leaders of the ski tourism industry.”

World Ski Awards, the only global initiative to recognise, reward and celebrate excellence in the ski hospitality industry, is the sister organisation of World Travel Awards, which is heralded as “the Oscars of the travel industry”.

MORE INFORMATION Launched in 2013, World Ski Awards aim is to drive up standards within the ski industry by rewarding the organisations that are leaders in their field. Votes are cast by professionals working within the ski industry – senior executives, travel buyers, tour operators, agents and media - and by the public (ski tourism consumers).

For more information on the upcoming World Ski Awards Gala Ceremony 2015 visit the official website at www. worldskiawards.com.

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Foto: Bernhard Spöttl © Gams-Logo-Design: Alfons Walde 1933 / VBK Wien

Kitzbuehel „The most legendary City of Sports in the Alps“.

The home of skiing is the home of the World Ski Awards 2015 in Kitzbuehel.

www.kitzbuehel.com

Kitzbühel

Best in Travel spotlight on:

KITZBÜHEL The historic ski town effortlessly combines tradition with sophistication. Here Best in Travel takes a tour.

The celebrated Hahnenkamm, its long sporting tradition, and pioneering ventures into Alpine golf and winter sports have all contributed to Kitzbühel's worldwide reputation. Today the town remains a place of contrasts, where rustic Tyrolean guesthouses rub shoulders with international designer boutiques. Visitors can experience Kitzbühel in many ways, from the alleyways in the medieval old town and the breath-taking pistes to the town's elegant hotels and scenic hiking trails. Tyrol's most sophisticated resort attracts visitors from all over the world, including celebrities, with its traditional character combined with modern flair.

Kitzbühel has been writing skiing history for 120 years, with the town boasting the ideal location and climate. In the long-established ski region around the Kitzbüheler Horn, the Nordstau weather effect ensures virtually guaranteed snow from December to April. Thanks to the grass cover up to the summits, skiing is possible even with small amounts of snow. There are also 820

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Recognised worldwide as a leader... in helping businesses save more on corporate travel.

With a global network spanning over 90 countries and a team of over 6500 travel industry professionals, FCm Travel Solutions draws on its global reach and local teams to deliver outstanding results for clients. Working with our industry partners, our people create real savings by customising travel programs to suit the needs of each client.

Our focus is on negotiating the right deals for clients and providing personal service through small, dedicated teams rather than call centres.

This award-winning approach to travel management enables us to deliver better travel ideas and greater savings for companies around the world.

www.fcm.travel Better travel ideas. Greater savings.

Kitzbühel

snow cannons to create the perfect conditions for winter sports. And even if you don't come to Kitzbühel to ski, you'll find plenty to do with winter hiking, snowshoe walks, and horse-drawn carriage rides, or simply stroll around the picturesque town centre. In addition to sports there are lots of events that make Kitzbühel a fascinating winter destination. For example, the town's advent celebrations with a traditional Christmas market and the New Year’s Eve fireworks on the Rasmusleiten create a romantic and magical atmosphere. High-profile events like the Hahnenkamm Races and the Valartis Snow Polo World Cup reflect Kitzbühel's more sophisticated and international side.

Kitzbühel is also the ideal destination for those who want to pamper body, mind and soul. With its pure mountain air, alpine climate and breath-taking scenery, it's the perfect setting for a healthy and relaxing break. From traditional Alpine wellness to modern beauty treatments, Kitzbühel has it all - combining luxury and relaxation as no other resort can.

The town has a wide selection of sports and wellness hotels offering treatments that range from peat baths to sports massage.

As well as the beauty parlours, day spas and yoga studios, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities to boost their energy levels. Kitzbühel's lakes, waterfalls and 'places of energy' are also popular destinations for an active yet tranquil getaway.

MORE INFORMATION For more information on visiting Kitzbühel head over to www.kitzbuehel. com.

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CrĂŠdits photos : Thinkstock

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World Golf Awards to return to

CONRAD ALGARVE FOR GALA CEREMONY

2015

World Golf Awards, the most prestigious awards programme in the golf tourism industry, has revealed Conrad Algarve will host its Gala Ceremony 2015.

After welcoming the inaugural Gala Ceremony in 2014, the luxurious property will receive the returning World Golf Awards Gala Ceremony on November 7th this year.

Conrad Algarve is one of the most modern five star hotels in the region.

The luxury hotel is uniquely styled, from the guest rooms to the private balconies, from the majestic spa to the five individual restaurants and bars, offering a sophisticated range of fine Portuguese and international cuisine. With contemporary design and technology flowing through the luxurious accommodation in harmony

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with beautiful natural surroundings, guests will find everything they require for a great holiday in the Algarve.

World Golf Awards Managing Director Chris Frost said: “It is an honour to be returning to the wonderful Conrad Algarve in southern Portugal for our second Gala Ceremony; the hotel was instrumental in the success of the inaugural World Golf Awards in 2014. The Algarve is the centre of the golfing world, and it surprised nobody when Portugal took the title of World’s Best Golf Destination last year.

With voting set to open in just a few short weeks it will be down to you, the voters, to

INTRAVELMAGAZINE.COM

decide if the destination is able to hold on to this most prestigious of crowns.”

Voting for the World Golf Awards Gala Ceremony 2015 opened on March 1st.

“The Conrad Algarve is extremely proud to be hosting the World Golf Awards Gala Ceremony for the second year in a row,” said Conrad Algarve General Manager Joachim Hartl. “It was an incredible pleasure to be part of the first edition of such a prestigious event in which Portugal was inclusively awarded as the World’s Best Golf Destination and makes more than sense to extend this connection with the

Conrad Algarve for Gala Ceremony 2015

golf hospitality industry. The Conrad Algarve Team will be more than happy to welcome all the participants and make the most of this evening that will take place on the November 7th 2015.”

Golf sponsor Quinta do Lago will also offer World Golf Awards guests a chance to enjoy its three award-winning championship golf courses – the South Course, Laranjal, and new North Course, which was co-designed

by Beau Welling and European Ryder Cupwinning captain Paul McGinley.

Each has been expertly designed to complement its natural surroundings, while offering its own set of unique challenges.

Wide lakes, undulating fairways and strategic bunkers characterise the terrain, along with carefully tended greens, which are considered to be among the best in Portugal.

John Dwyer, chief executive at Quinta do Lago, said: “It was a great privilege for Quinta do Lago to play a leading role in the first World Golf Awards. The visibility it brought created a great buzz about the resort and its success helped cap a special year for us, which included the re-opening of the North Course. To be involved again is a great honour and a tremendous opportunity to showcase our five-star facilities to some of the top names in the golf industry.”

MORE INFORMATION World Golf Awards serves to celebrate and reward excellence in golf tourism, world class courses and golf destinations. Golf tourism constitutes a vital segment in the global travel and tourism marketplace. An estimated 60 million golfer visits will take place in 2015 to the 32,000 golf courses and resorts worldwide.

The 2015 World Golf Awards will focus on the leading 130 nations who are shaping the future of this dynamic industry.

While celebrating and rewarding excellence across golf resorts, courses and the golfing destinations throughout the world, World Golf Awards will strive to ultimately raise the golf tourist customer experience and stimulate both the domestic and international golf tourism market.

For nomination information please visits www.worldgolfawards.com.

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“CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN GOLF TOURISM”

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7 NOVEMBER 2015 TH

CONRAD ALGARVE, QUINTA DO LAGO, PORTUGAL

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