BTN - ITB 2010 Day 4 by Breaking Travel News

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ITB Berlin Special Edition

Saturday 13 March 2010

www.breakingtravelnews.com S P E C I A L R E P O R T

World Travel Awards 2010 nominees announced page 15

ITB Mobile Guide

Aviation

help is at hand page 4

Fast and furious times page 12

One web Is your brand optimised for mobile internet? page 79

Delhi builds sporting legacy

India will fall under the sporting spotlight in October when Delhi hosts the 19th Commonwealth Games. With seven months before the opening ceremony, Breaking Travel News takes a look at preparations for the event. Mike Starling reports.

There may be concerns about unfinished construction, power shortages and security but the Indian Ministry of Tourism is defiant that the 2010 Commonwealth Games will prove to be a huge success. Since Delhi was named host city of the Commonwealth Games the amount of media scrutiny and outside negative opinion has been

at the highest level for a sporting event in recent times.

But for a country with a population of more than 1.1 billion people, there is no doubt that the Games are a major landmark in its tourism and sporting history. Some estimates state that more than 4.5 million domestic and 2 million international tourists will visit Delhi as a result of the Games. The figures may sound over-ambitious, but India has 500 million domestic tourists alone. These positive figures are one reason why the Indian Ministry of Tourism is confident that the Games will prove beneficial. Raj Kumar Sunani, assistant director of India Tourism in London, said: “The Games can herald a turning point for India. This is a great opportunity to showcase tourism and specifically the newly-developed products such as rural tourism and medical tourism.”

Speaking about Delhi’s infrastructure progress, Sunani added: “The Delhi Metro is world-class and we have a city and buildings to show to the world. Compared to the last five years, Delhi is so different because of the development. “We are building a world-class infrastructure for the Games that will benefit India in the future. This event is forcing us to invest in a worldclass infrastructure.” A major area of concern is a lack of hotel rooms to accommodate delegates, media and sports fans. One person to agree with this concern is Jean-Claude Baumgarten, president and CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council. Baumgarten said: “India is a fantastic destination and has a huge domestic market. But although there has been an improvement in construction and airports, there is still an insufficient infrastructure network and not enough rooms. Continued on page 10

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Pocket-sized ITB Berlin With seemingly the entire travel industry gathered in one place, even the savviest of visitor can become disorientated here at ITB Berlin. But thoughtful organisers have once again provided the helpful ITB Mobile Guide, letting visitors navigate their way easily around the Berlin Exhibition Grounds. Provided by GIATA & TOURIAS Mobile, there is also information on the ITB Berlin Convention programmes, as well as a list of events, press conferences, presentations, receptions, and a function for looking up exhibitors. After the fair closes the ITB Mobile Guide provides users with information on the quickest way to the city centre and tips on Berlin nightlife; including information on

restaurants, bars and tourist attractions. Tourias Mobile managing director, Christoph Schotter, explained: “Applications are now a big trend in the tourism industry as well. They offer destinations, tour operators and hotels altogether new opportunities for marketing and winning customers.”

1 Northumberland Avenue Trafalgar Square London WC2N 5BW Tel: +44 (0) 20 7925 0000 www.breakingtravelnews.com To subscribe to the free daily newsletter: subscribe@breakingtravelnews.com or sign up via the website For editorial feedback: Anton Strack – Editor Christopher O’Toole – Junior Editor editor@breakingtravelnews.com

Designed for mobiles and smartphones, the clever pocketsized trade fair companion can be easily downloaded at www.itbberlin.de/mobil. Users downloading direct from a mobile can head to www.itb-berlin.mobi, while Bluetooth users should head for the TOURIAS Mobile Stand in Hall 7.1c/Stand 129.

For advertising: advertising@breakingtravelnews.com Chairman, CEO: Graham Cooke Executive Vice President: Manon Han Senior Vice President: David Falcon Group Vice President: Kevin Taylor Global Directors: Sion Rapson, Chris Frost, Khalil El-Mouelhy, Max Miller, James Khan Editor: Anton Strack Writers: Christopher O’Toole, Adam Coulter, Chris Whitfield, Mike Starling, Leah Benrimoj Marketing & Publishing Manager: Deanna Walker Online Marketing Manager: Chris Whitfield

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continued from cover

“Some Indian newspapers say 240,000 rooms would be necessary for the Commonwealth Games, but there are only 90,000 available. What will happen is there will be a 120 per cent load factor for airlines and hotels and a shortage of capacity.” In an exclusive interview with Breaking Travel News, Baumgarten was asked what advice he would give the Indian authorities to capitalise on the Games’ impact. He added: “India will have to make a major marketing approach. You can’t just say come, because there is not enough capacity. You have to select your markets – that will be an interesting approach.” Last month, before the start of the field Hockey World Cup in Delhi, there were media reports of security threats at sporting events in India.

Sunani was quick to ease fears and said: “India has taken so many steps for safety and security. “There will be a tough security system for the Games in Delhi, noone should have any worries about safety. The police, the Army and intelligence are fully involved for the security of the Commonwealth Games. Since the Parliament bombing in Delhi [in 2001] security has been very tough, safety is one of the biggest things for us.”

As India continues to prepare for its biggest-ever sporting event, one legacy of the Games has already been realised with Delhi being named as host city for the South Asian Games in 2012.

While the negatives will continue to raise alarm, one positive was a report published in the autumn of last year by PricewaterhouseCoopers. The firm revealed that the Games could create more than US$6 billion worth of business opportunities. Included in this amount is the estimated US$25 million in ticketing revenues.

With Indian Premier League cricket also to look forward to this month, it cannot be denied that India represents a wealth of opportunity for the sports tourism industry.

2010 Commonwealth Games in numbers n The Games take place in Delhi from 3-14 October 2010 n Delhi is home to more than 14 million people n Estimated budget for the event is more than US$1.6billion n 71 countries will participate n More than 6,000 athletes to take part n In 2010 Delhi is expecting 2 million foreign and 4.5 million domestic tourists n By the start of the Games, Indira Gandhi International Airport is estimated to have seen more than US$1.9 billion in upgrades n The Delhi Games Village will have capacity for 8,500 athletes and officials n 17 sports will be held at six venue clusters and five standalone venues

Travellers turn to virtual video Holidaymakers looking for inside information when making travel decisions are turning to video streaming services in search of information.

accessible places for the consumer; with Accustream Research revealing the consumption of professionally-produced video grew 18 per cent in 2009 – with 49.1 billion views recorded over the year.

For example, new data from market research organisation Comscore reveal YouTube – the world’s leading video sharing site – received 13.2 billion viewers in December 2009; illustrating the demand for online services.

One of the leaders in the virtual space is Virtual World Internet (VWI), which delivers interactive solutions for a wide variety of applications in the travel and tourism sector. This includes designing, developing, hosting and marketing high-value visual content.

As such, there is huge potential to influence holiday decisions with the use of online marketing; with professional organisations now moving into what has traditionally been an amateur pursuit. Businesses are increasingly realising the importance of displaying their content in the most

Founded in 1995, the virtual imaging service provider has played a major role in creating the virtual tours experience worldwide and is leading the development of the nextgeneration visual information. Its many high profile clients include Dubai’s Grosvenor House (http://virtual-grosvenorhouse.com),

Kempinski – Mall of the Emirates, Le Royal Meridian Dubai, The Monarch, and Rotana (http://almurooj.virtual-rotana.com). Virtual World Internet sites are tailored for the individual hotel and they take online video, photography, and 360 virtual tours of all aspects of the hotel such as amenities, guest rooms, and conference rooms for presentation on the internet. Destinations too are investing in rich media such as Dubai which launched virtual-dubai.com, a comprehensive visual library offering streaming video, virtual tours and still pictures of the emirate’s finest destinations.

virtualworldinternet.com

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World Sport Destination Expo is the world’s first global exhibition and congress dedicated to showcasing the $600 billion a year sport tourism industry. At a time when traditional tourism trends are in decline, sport tourism continues to flourish and is set to grow dramatically in the next decade. Participation in World Sport Destination Expo is vital to those companies involved in the sport tourism market-place, and those serious in assuming a market share of the industry’s fastest growing sector. Over 5 dynamic business-focussed days you will be in pole position to: • Conduct lucrative business deals with the leading international tour operators • Meet face to face with the key corporate buyers and event organisers • Educate the industry about your capabilities to host major events • Explore and enter new international markets • Gain deep insights in to the latest developments in the sport tourism industry • Meet all the key industry players in a focused business environment • Showcase your brand credentials on a global stage Do not miss out on the travel and tourism event of the year. To exhibit go to www.worldsportdestinationexpo.com/exhibiting To visit go to www.worldsportdestinationexpo.com/visiting For more information contact info@worldsportdestinationexpo.com Partners

Image: Celtic Manor Resort

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Special Report

Fast and furious times for aviation If nothing else, the global downturn has made this one of the most exciting periods yet in aviation history. BTN’s Aviation Correspondent Adam Coulter picks out the key trends that are currently shaping the industry.

Last year brought two aspects of the airline industry into sharp focus: whether the existing model of full-service, legacy airlines can be viable in the long term; and the continuing success of the lowcost model, both in the UK and the rest of the world. In both cases, the overriding aim of all airlines was to try and squeeze as much money out of the passenger as possible. The way airlines have tried do this is through what has come to be known as “unbundling”. Unbundling is simply breaking down all the component parts of an airfare that were previously included in the fare. For example: a meal and a drink, hold baggage, a designated seat and even, in the case of Ryanair, check-in.

Unbundling was pioneered by Air Canada, and soon the US legacy carriers followed suit. Most if not all network carriers in the U.S. now levy an additional fee for more than one piece of hold baggage for non-business passengers. Ironically, the one carrier which most people expected to follow suit – the grand-daddy of lowcost carriers, Southwest – made a big play of not charging for hold baggage. It even went as far as running a series of ads stating: “Baggage flies free”. Not so in Europe, where the headline grabbing 1p fares advertised by the budget carriers soon mutate into hundreds of pounds when you factor in the credit card charge, priority boarding and check-in.

breakingtravelnews.com

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In most cases, the airline’s answer is the same: “We are giving the passenger a choice”. But with Ryanair, which did away with all its check-in desks last year, passengers are left with no choice: they have to pay £2.50 to check-in online. British Airways has long made a virtue of not charging for “extras”, so when it started to levy a fee last autumn for seat allocation passengers were outraged. BA put a neat spin on the policy change, claiming it was an optional add-on: in other words, unlike check-in or luggage, you did not have to book your seat, but the airline was kindly giving you the option to do so. BA has been asked repeatedly whether the move signals the start of a slippery slope but has repeatedly denied it. And yet at the same time, almost unnoticed, BA also did away with another socalled extra and started charging for outsize baggage such as skis, golf clubs and surfboards.

No more business? The second big trend to sweep the aviation industry has been a focus on premium cabins. Shorthaul business, for example, is proving to be unsustainable for the full-service carriers. BA in particular has made it plain that it makes little or no money on short-haul business class. In February chief executive Willie Walsh said: “Short-haul premium will never recover. That part of the business has changed for ever and we have to address it.”

breakingtravelnews.com

BA is now understood to be reviewing its short-haul operations and premium seats could be removed from planes operating out of Gatwick and regional airports. In January, the UK’s secondlargest carrier, bmi, removed business class across all its domestic and Ireland routes, introducing Flexible Economy, aimed at the business traveller, and which includes meals and lounge access and a seat at the front of the plane – but the same type of seats as everyone else. It’s a different story on long-haul, where airlines still hope they can make a decent return, despite the International Air Travel Association’s report which showed that losses in the premium air traffic market since September 2008 have erased the previous six years of growth in the sector. New IATA data reveals that the number of premium passengers on international flights grew 1.7% year-over-year in December 2009 -– the first yearover-year rise in premium travel since May 2008. However, December 2009’s levels are still 17% below highs recorded in early 2008. Despite this, in November, BA launched its first ever all-business service, from London City Airport to New York’s JFK. Operating a specially configured Airbus A319 with just 32 seats and with fares around the £5,000mark, the service is aimed squarely at the City businessman. And in February, it spent £100m on relaunching its First cabin across the fleet, which it

describes as a suite and borrows heavily from its Middle East rivals. Etihad also relaunched its first class cabin, spending $70m on the new suite; while Emirates introduced a new level of luxury in its first suites on board the A380 which include an in air lounge and shower/spa. Meanwhile, following a 72% slump in profits, Qantas Airways announced in February that it will be cutting first-class seats from all but a handful of routes. First class will only be kept on flights from Australia to London, via Singapore, and between Australia and Los Angeles. Chief executive Alan Joyce said: “Our first class product will remain on key routes. It’s a rebalance - there are more business class seats and less first class seats.”

Getting closer Consolidation continues apace: perhaps the only way the longterm future of the airline industry can be guaranteed. So, Lufthansa bought the remaining 51% share of bmi and took over SWISS; BA finally announced a merger with Iberia, and then in February the US Department of Transport finally issued a tentative decision approving antitrust immunity for American Airlines and its Oneworld partners, allowing the formation a global alliance. The alliance includes American Airlines, British Airways, Royal Jordanian Airlines, Finnair and Iberia Airlines.

And in February, Indian domestic giant Kingfisher Airlines, announced that it will also join Oneworld. However, the DOT also argued any potential alliance could harm competition on select routes between the US and Heathrow. The tentative ruling has been slammed by Virgin boss Richard Branson, who has described it as “uncompetitive”. On a smaller scale in Europe, Aegean Air and Olympic Air recently announced a merger. South America saw the formation of the region’s biggest airline in October, following the merger of TACA and Avianca, which could lead to a direct service to London from Latin America. Separately, Avianca is currently integrating one of Brazil’s regional carriers, OceanBlue, into its network. The airline also has flying rights to both Heathrow and Frankfurt, but has not exercised them due to the economic downturn.

What does the future hold? The key to the success of the industry lies in two factors: whether business travel picks up to reflect the pick-up in the economy; and whether airlines continue to keep a tight hold on capacity to ensure that yields remain high. One is out of their control, the other is firmly in their control, but whatever happens, most experts predict that 2010 should be a better year than the previous two.

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WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS

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worldtravelawards.com

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‘The Oscars of the Travel Industry’ Wall Street Journal

World Travel Awards 2010 Grand Tour After a rigorous selection procedure, Dubai (UAE), Johannesburg (South Africa), Orlando (Florida, USA), Antalya (Turkey), New Delhi (India) and Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) have been chosen to stage the six World Travel Awards regional ceremonies, with the winners progressing to the Grand Final in London (UK) in November. Celebrating its 17th anniversary, the World Travel Awards has grown into a truly global search for the very best travel and tourism brands, and is heralded by the Wall Street Journal as the “Oscars of the travel industry”. The choice of hosts reflects those destinations that are making the greatest contribution to the global travel industry in 2010 – iconic places with such a relentless drive to do things better they stand in a class of their own.

Haifa Wehbe performing at the Middle East & Africa Ceremony, Abu Dhabi, 2007.

The World Travel Awards is delighted to unveil the destinations that will play host to its 2010 Grand Tour.

The growth of sport tourism, a sector now worth US$600 billion, is reflected strongly in the choice of this year’s World Travel Awards host venues. Rio de Janeiro, for example, is riding the quest of a sporting wave, having bagged hosting rights to the 2016 Olympics to add to its FIFA World Cup 2014 conquest. The ‘Cidade Maravilhosa’ (marvellous city) will play host to the World Travel Awards South America Ceremony on 20 October. Johannesburg, which is adding the finishing touches to its preparations as a host city of this summer’s World Cup, will set the stage for the WTA Africa Ceremony on 7 July. And

London, currently gearing up for the 2012 Olympics, will host the WTA Grand Final on 7 November. Meanwhile those destinations that have created tourism miracles off the sporting field also feature prominently in this year’s WTA Grand Tour. Antalya, for example, has created a multi-million dollar tourism economy out of virtually nothing. Known as the ‘Pearl of the Mediterranean’, it has blossomed into Turkey’s holiday capital, and will play host to WTA European Ceremony, the fourth leg of the 2010 Grand Tour. Competition in this year’s WTA Grand Tour will undoubtedly prove hotter than ever. World Travel Awards has received a tremendous response to self nominations, which are up a phenomenal 50 per cent on 2009, with applicants from over 70 countries worldwide. This record number is conclusive evidence that World Travel Awards has become the “Oscars” of the global travel industry. Graham E. Cooke, Founder and President, World Travel Awards, said: “World Travel Awards is a unique benchmark for industry quality and business excellence in every region and sector.” “The increase in registered voters, despite a global recession, demonstrates the vital role that World Travel Awards plays. More multinational companies than ever, ranging from Etihad Airways and

Meet World Travel Awards team at Funkturm Tower @ ITB, outside Halls 14, 15 and 17 meet-at-itb@worldtravelawards.com

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World Travel Awards Grand Tour 2010 Chris Noth (aka “Mr Big”) with David Falcon, Senior Vice President, World Travel Awards, and Sheikh Faisal bin Khali Al Qasimi, at the Middle East & Africa Ceremony, Abu Dhabi, 2007.

TAP Portugal to InterContinental Hotels and Disney, are spearheading their global marketing campaigns with their award victories,” he added. This level of accountability makes the World Travel Awards the highest accolade in the travel industry and is why the award ceremony is broadcast by BBC World News and other networks to over 254 million households worldwide and attended by the industry’s global decision makers. For the tourism trade, winning a World Travel Award is more than an award – it is an endorsement from the thousands of professionals from around the globe, as well as gold seal to the consumer of travel excellence guaranteed.

The World Travel Awards has continuously evolved, expanding the number of awards as the industry has grown. There are now over 1,000 different categories – an understandable number seeing how the industry has diversified and given the fact that there were over 3,600 different nominees last year. As confidence returns to the global economy in 2010, the World Travel Awards will reward those travel and tourism players that are spearheading the recovery. And judging by the quality of nominations received ahead of the Grand Tour, 2010 is destined to be the biggest and most hotlycontested yet for the World Travel Awards.

Middle East Gala Ceremony Dubai, UAE 3 May 2010 Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony Johannesburg, South Africa 7 July 2010 North & Central American & Caribbean Gala Ceremony Orlando, Florida, USA 11 September 2010 Europe Gala Ceremony Antalya, Turkey 1 October 2010 Asia & Australasia Gala Ceremony New Delhi, India 14 October 2010

His Majesty King Zwelithini Goodwill kaBhekuzulu at the Africa Ceremony, Durban, 2008.

South America Gala Ceremony Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 20 October 2010 Grand Final London, UK 7 November 2010

worldtravelawards.com

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B U S I N E S S T R AV E L O R W E E K E N D G E TA W AY

It’s all in The Address

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Welcome to The Address Hotels + Resorts. Located in the most vibrant parts of the city, The Address Hotels + Resorts are defining the global standards of luxury hospitality. From business meetings to social rendezvous. From absolute relaxation to luxurious indulgences. It’s where worldclass services have been recreated to suit dicerning tastes. It’s where energy surrounds you the minute you walk in. It’s chic. It’s exciting. It’s all in The Address.

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‘The Oscars of the Travel Industry’ Wall Street Journal

World Travel Awards Middle East Ceremony 2010 The Address Dubai Marina, Dubai, UAE • 3 May 2010 The World Travel Awards Grand Tour 2010 kicks off with the Middle East Ceremony, being held again this year in the exciting and rapidlychanging emirate of Dubai.

Travel and tourism companies and organisations from across the region, representing every industry sector, will be fighting for their chance to be recognised by the ‘Oscars’ of the travel industry. The event will take place at the new, luxurious, The Address Dubai Marina. This premier hotel stands tall in the heart of one of Dubai’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, where crystal

waters shimmer against modern architecture and luxury yachts moor alongside trendsetting restaurants. With 200 luxurious rooms, five superb restaurants and lounges, a relaxing spa, spectacular infinity pool and state of the art meeting and event facilities, The Address Dubai Marina is the perfect venue for the 2010 World Travel Awards Middle East Ceremony.

Tickets to World Travel Awards events are always in high demand, therefore early booking is always recommended. To secure your seats for this mustattend event for senior decision makers and global media, please contact our events team using the details below: Email: booking@worldtravelawards.com Telephone: +44 (0)207 925 0000

Sheikh Al-Waleed bin Talal bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud and Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum receiving awards from Graham E. Cooke, President & Founder of World Travel Awards, at a privately held ceremony.

“

The World Travel Awards ceremony is a fantastic event and a great networking opportunity for the travel industry…it makes sense to partner with a high profile and well-connected event like WTA.” Zina Neophytou Travel Distribution Account Director, BBC World News

Meet World Travel Awards team at Funkturm Tower @ ITB, outside Halls 14, 15 and 17 meet-at-itb@worldtravelawards.com

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Here is a selection of 2010 Middle East nominees… James Hogan, CEO, Etihad Airways, pictured with Jean-Claude Baumgarten, President & CEO, WTTC, at the 2009 Grand Final Ceremony. World's Leading Airline 2009

Anita Mehra Homayoun, Vice President Marketing & Corporate Communications, Dubai Airports; His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Middle East's Leading Airport

The Address Dubai Marina – venue for the Middle East Ceremony 2010.

n Safar Travel & Tourism n Sharaftravel n SNTTA - Sharjah National Travel & Tourist Agency

Middle East’s Leading Airline n Emirates n Etihad Airways n Kuwait Airways n MEA - Middle East Airlines n Oman Air n Qatar Airways n Royal Jordanian Airlines n Saudi Arabian Airlines Middle East’s Leading Beach Resort n Al Hamra Fort Hotel and Beach Resort, United Arab Emirates n Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah n Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers, Abu Dhabi n Danat Resort Jebel Dhanna, Abu Dhabi n InterContinental Al Bustan Palace Muscat, Oman n Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa, Dubai n Jordan Valley Marriott Resort & Spa n Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, Fujairah n Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa n Mina A'Salam at Madinat Jumeirah n One & Only Royal Mirage n Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort, Oman n Sheraton Coral Beach Hotel & Resort, Lebanon n The Chedi Muscat n The Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai n The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Middle East’s Leading Business Travel Agency n Airlink International U.A.E n Dnata, Dubai n Kanoo n Omeir Travel agency, Abu Dhabi n Orient Travel n Overseas Travel Bureau, Qatar n Regency Travel & Tours, Qatar

Middle East’s Leading Destination n Abu Dhabi n Bahrain n Dubai n Oman n Qatar n Saudi Arabia Middle East's Leading Hotel n Al Faisaliah Hotel, A Rosewood Hotel n Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai n Atlantis The Palm, Dubai n Burj Al Arab, Dubai n Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi n Four Seasons Hotel Amman, Jordan n InterContinental Abu Dhabi n InterContinental Dubai Festival City n Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai n Le Méridien Towers Makkah n Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai n One&Only Royal Mirage n Rosewood Corniche n Shangri-La Abu Dhabi n Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort, Oman n Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay n The Address, Downtown Burj Dubai n The Chedi Muscat, Oman n The Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai n The Ritz-Carlton Doha, Qatar Middle East’s Leading Private Jet Charter n Aircharter International n Al Jaber Aviation - AJA n ExecuJet Middle East n Prestige Jet n Royal Jet n VistaJet

For the full list of Middle East 2010 nominees visit www.worldtravelawards.com/nominees The Address Dubai Marina.

worldtravelawards.com

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CHARMING QATAR Explore it with the award winners.

The superior quality of our travel services at Regency Travel & Tours has won us three years in a row the Middle East's Leading Travel Agency Award and the Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Travel Agency Award. Our acclaimed travel expertise is behind every tour we conduct and we promise to deliver a pleasant and memorable experience. #HOOSE FROM A RANGE OF OUR PACKAGES s $OHA #ITY 4OUR s 3HOPPING 4OUR s /VERNIGHT 3AFARI s $HOW #RUISE $INNER s $ESERT 3AFARI s &ISHING 4RIP s .ORTH 1ATAR 4OUR s $UKHAN AND 7EST #OAST 4OUR s 3HAHANIYA 4OUR

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‘The Oscars of the Travel Industry’ Wall Street Journal

World Travel Awards Africa & Indian Ocean Ceremony 2010 Johannesburg, South Africa • 7 July 2010

Johannesburg

The World Travel Awards Africa & Indian Ocean Ceremony 2010 will take place this July in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Attended by leading industry figures, this event is set to be an outstanding success and a testament to the extraordinary innovation and diversity that is seen in the African tourism industry. Last year more than 200 organisations were nominated in 75 categories for the Africa and Indian Ocean region, including airlines, airports, hotels, car hire, destinations, resorts, spas and travel agencies.

The financial powerhouse of the country, Johannesburg is home to some of the finest nightlife and entertainment around, and has numerous opportunities for those who love the great outdoors. With the much-anticipated 2010 FIFA World Cup taking place in just a few months time, Johannesburg is busy preparing itself for the thousands of fans who are expected to flock to South Africa. The country’s tourism sector is expecting a significant boost in 2010.

Meet World Travel Awards team at Funkturm Tower @ ITB, outside Halls 14, 15 and 17 meet-at-itb@worldtravelawards.com

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Here is a selection of 2010 Africa & Indian Ocean nominees…

Pierre Delvaux (CEO), Christin Olofsson, Anita Vernes (Marketing Director) and Dan Olofsson (Chairman) from Thanda Private Game Reserve, accepting their 2009 award. World’s Leading Luxury Lodge 2009

Africa’s Leading Destination n Cape Town n City of Johannesburg n Kruger National Park n Luxor, Egypt n Marrakech n Mt Kilimanjaro, Tanzania n Serengeti n Sharm El Sheikh n Victoria Falls Africa’s Leading Low Cost Airline n 1time n Fly540 n Jet 4 You n Kulula n Mango

Raj Kamal Taposeea, Chairman, Air Mauritius; Miss Australia; Graham E. Cooke, President & Founder, World Travel Awards. Indian Ocean’s Leading Airline 2009

Tickets to World Travel Awards events are always in high demand, therefore early booking is always recommended. To secure your seats for this must-attend event for senior decision makers and global media, please contact our events team using the details below: Email: booking@worldtravelawards.com Telephone: +44 (0)207 925 0000

Africa’s Leading Safari Lodge n Chiawa Camp n Chobe Chilwero Lodge n Etali Safari Lodge n Finch Hattons n Gorah Elephant Camp n Legend Lodges, Entabeni Private Game Reserve n Londolozi Private Game Reserve n Makanyane n Royal Malewane n Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve n Shamwari Game Reserve n Shamwari Game Reserve n Singita Ebony Lodge n Thanda Private Game Reserve n Tuli Safari Lodge n Wolwedans Dunes Lodge & Dune

Indian Ocean’s Leading Destination n Comoros n Madagascar n Maldives n Mauritius n Seychelles n Sri Lanka Indian Ocean’s Leading Hotel n Banyan Tree Seychelles n Belle Mare Plage Resort n Château de Feuilles, Seychelles n Conrad Maldives Rangali Island n Legends n One&Only Le Saint Geran, Mauritius n Royal Palm Hotel, Mauritius n Soneva Gili, Maldives n Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives n The Fortress n The Oberoi Mauritius Indian Ocean’s Leading Villa n Adaaran Prestige Water Villas, Maldives n Banyan Tree Seychelles n Baros Residence, Baros Maldives n Delux Soneva Fushi Villa, Soneva Fushi Resort & Spa, Maldives n Hideaway Palace, Island Hideaway at Dhonakulhi Spa Resort & Marina n Koimala Land and Ocean Villa, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru n Presidential Villa, Banyan Tree Seychelles n Royal Kurumba Residence, Kurumba Maldives n The Royal Villa, Sainte Anne Resort & Spa, Seychelles n The Villa, One&Only Le Saint Geran, Mauritius

For the full list of Africa & Indian Ocean 2010 nominees visit www.worldtravelawards.com/nominees

worldtravelawards.com

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‘The Oscars of the Travel Industry’ Wall Street Journal

World Travel Awards North & Central America and Caribbean Ceremony 2010 Orlando, Florida, USA • 11 September 2010

“

Being honoured as North America’s Leading Travel Agency by the World Travel Awards has provided some of our greatest moments at Anthony Travel. We’ve enjoyed celebrating this achievement around the country externally with our clients and internally with our associates. The awards continue to be a huge source of pride for all of us.” John Anthony, President and CEO, Anthony Travel North America’s Leading Travel Agency 2009 Carly Reed, Head of Public Relations, Universal Orlando Florida, with Miss World. World’s Leading Theme Park 2009

Orlando, Florida is the exciting location for this year’s World Travel Awards North & Central America and Caribbean Ceremony.

The awards, described by the Wall Street Journal as the Oscars of the travel industry, will unveil who is the best of the best in the region. Senior management and decision makers of the travel and tourism industry will come together to celebrate their achievements during the ceremony.

Offering nearly 100 attractions (including the world-famous Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld), 112,000 hotel rooms and more than 5,300 restaurants, it’s easy to see why Orlando has evolved to become one of the world's leading vacation destinations. More than 50 million people visit the region annually. What better place to reward the best in the travel industry?

Meet World Travel Awards team at Funkturm Tower @ ITB, outside Halls 14, 15 and 17 meet-at-itb@worldtravelawards.com

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Here is a selection of 2010 North & Central America and Caribbean nominees…

Orlando Arroyo, CEO, Hacienda Tres Rios Resort; Manon Han, Executive Vice President, World Travel Awards. Mexico & Central America’s Leading All-inclusive Resort 2009

North America’s Leading Cruise Line n American Cruise Lines, Inc n Carnival Cruise Line n Celebrity Cruises n Crystal Cruises n Disney Cruises n Holland America Line Inc n Norwegian Cruise Line n Princess Cruises n Royal Caribbean Cruise Line North America’s Leading Travel Agency n Anthony Travel n Maupin Travel, Inc n McTavish Travel n Uniglobe Donaldson Travel n Uniglobe Geo Travel

William Tatham, Vice President, The Port Authority of Jamaica; Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism, Jamaica; Graham Cooke, President & Founder, World Travel Awards. Jamaica - Caribbean’s Leading Destination 2009 Caribbean’s Leading Marketing Campaign 2009 Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board 2009

Mexico & Central America’s Leading Airline n Alamo n Avis n Budget n Dollar n Hertz n National Mexico & Central America’s Leading Beach Destination n Bocas Del Toro, Panama n Cancun, Mexico

n n n n

Jaco Beach, Costa Rica Playa Santo Domingo, Nicaragua Tulum, Mexico West Bay Beach, Roatan, Honduras

Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Destination n Aruba n Bahamas n Barbados n Dominican Republic n Jamaica n Trinidad & Tobago Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination n Anguilla n Antigua & Barbuda n Aruba n Bahamas n Barbados n Bermuda n British Virgin Islands n Grenada n Jamaica n Nevis n St Barts n St Lucia n St Martins n St Vincent & The Grenadines n Turks & Caicos

For the full list of North & Central America and Caribbean 2010 nominees visit www.worldtravelawards.com/nominees

worldtravelawards.com

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‘The Oscars of the Travel Industry’ Wall Street Journal

World Travel Awards Europe Ceremony 2010 Rixos Premium Belek, Antalya, Turkey 1 October 2010 This year’s prestigious World Travel Awards Europe Ceremony will be held at the Rixos Premium Belek, a leading resort hotel located in Antalya, Turkey – the Pearl of the Mediterranean.

Travel and tourism companies and organisations from across Europe, representing every industry sector, will be fighting for their chance to be recognised by the ‘Oscars’ of the travel industry. The Turkish Riviera is the tourism capital of Turkey, and an ideal location for the 2010 World Travel Awards Europe Ceremony. The region, bathed in sunshine for 300 days of the year, is a paradise for sunbathing, swimming and sports

Rixos Premium Belek

activities like windsurfing, waterskiing, sailing and mountain climbing. The Rixos Premium Belek covers an area of 400,000m2 and is built in a forest of pine and pistachio trees with a 1,000 metre long sandy beach, 1,700 beds, and a staff of 900! The All Exclusive-All Inclusive concept practiced by the Rixos Premium Belek guarantees the very highest standards.

Rixos Premium Belek – venue for the Europe Ceremony 2010.

Meet World Travel Awards team at Funkturm Tower @ ITB, outside Halls 14, 15 and 17 meet-at-itb@worldtravelawards.com

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“

This is the most important prize received in our 64 years of activity in the business.” Fernando Pinto CEO, TAP Portugal

Here is a selection of 2010 Europe nominees… Europe’s Leading Airline n Air France n Alitalia n British Airways n Iberia n KLM n Lufthansa n SAS Scandinavian Airlines n Swiss International Air Lines n TAP Portugal Forte Village Resort, Italy receiving their award. World’s Leading Resort 2009

Luiz Mór, Executive Director, TAP Portugal; Miss World; Graham Cooke, President & Founder, World Travel Awards. World's Leading Airline To South America 2009

Europe’s Leading Airport n Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, Netherlands n Barcelona International Airport, Spain n Copenhagen Airport, Denmark n Domodedovo International Airport, Russia n Hamburg Airport, Germany n Helsinki-Vantaa, Finland n Leonardo da Vinci International Airport, Italy n Lisbon Airport, Portugal n Madrid Barajas International Airport, Spain n Munich International Airport, Germany n Zurich Airport, Switzerland Europe’s Leading Car Hire n Auto Europe n Avis n Budget n Europcar n Hertz n Holiday Autos n Sixt n Thrifty

Telmo Faria, Mayor of Óbidos, Portugal presented the award to José Pampolim, Vice President and Stuart Swycher, President, Beltico Group. The Praia d’El Rey Marriott Golf and Beach Resort Europe's Leading Golf & Leisure Resort 2009

Europe’s Leading City Break Destination n Istanbul,Turkey n Lisbon, Portugal n London, United Kingdom n Madrid, Spain n Paris, France n Prague, Czech Republic n Rome, Italy n Tallinn, Estonia n Venice, Italy Europe’s Leading Cruise Destination n Amsterdam - Netherlands n Athens, Greece n Cannes, France n Copenhagen, Denmark n Dubrovnik, Croatia n Lisbon, Portugal n Oslo, Norway n Reykjavik, Iceland n St Petersburg, Russia n Stockholm - Sweden n Venice, Italy Europe’s Leading Low Cost Airline n Aer Lingus n Air Berlin n bmibaby n Clickair n Condor n Easyjet n Monarch Airlines n SkyEurope

For the full list of Europe 2010 nominees visit www.worldtravelawards.com/nominees

worldtravelawards.com

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2010 Unlocking Investment Opportunities in the Middle East and North Africa

1 – 3 May 2010 PLATINUM SPONSORS

EMERALD SPONSORS

Join over 500 senior delegates from over 50 countries at the region’s leading hotel investment event Confirmed speakers include:

GOLD SPONSORS

HE Dr Rajiha Abdul Ameer Ali

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HE Yassir Zenagui

Chairman

Minister of Tourism

Abu Dhabi National Hotels

Minister of Tourism & Handicraft

Sultanate Of Oman

Kingdom Of Morocco

Dr Salah AlBukayyet

Eric Danziger

Kurt Ritter

Vice President – Investments

President & CEO

Saudi Commission For Tourism & Antiquities

Wyndham Hotel Group

The Rezidor Hotel Group

Full Programme Available Now: www.arabianconference.com/programme

ORGANISED BY:

AHIC Awards 2010 Nominations Now Open! VOTE ONLINE www.arabianconference.com/nominate

www.arabianconference.com

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‘The Oscars of the Travel Industry’ Wall Street Journal

World Travel Awards Asia & Australasia Ceremony 2010 The Claridges Surajkund, Delhi, India 14 October 2010

“

It is indeed a great honour to receive an award that recognises us not only in China but globally. The World Travel Award is one of the most esteemed accolades one can receive in the global travel and tourism industry.” Charlie Dang, Area Managing Director, Northern China, Starwood Hotels & Resorts and GM, Westin Beijing Financial Street.

The Claridges

The World Travel Awards Asia & Australasia Ceremony 2010 will take place this October in Delhi, India, to coincide with the XIX Commonwealth Games (Delhi, 3-14 October).

Attended by VIP’s and leading industry figures, the event is set to be an outstanding success and a celebration of the incredible achievements of the Asian and Australasian travel industries.

and colourful bazaars. The imperial city of New Delhi is known for its wide, tree-lined boulevards and many national institutions and landmarks.

Delhi is undergoing extensive rejuvenation and transformation, to New Delhi is the capital city of India ensure it looks its best for visitors during the XIX Commonwealth and is situated within the metropolis of Delhi. Delhi is a fusion of the Games. The Games will bring positive ancient and the modern – in Old Delhi benefits to the Indian tourism you will discover formidable mosques, industry. monuments and forts, as well as lively

Meet World Travel Awards team at Funkturm Tower @ ITB, outside Halls 14, 15 and 17 meet-at-itb@worldtravelawards.com

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Here is a selection of 2010 Asia & Australasia nominees…

Kumari Selja, Minister for Tourism, India, with Miss World; Incredible India. World's Leading Destination Marketing Campaign 2009

Tan Sri Dr.Mohd Munir bin Abdul Majid, Chairman, Malaysia Airlines; Syed Abdillah Aziz, Regional Manager UK & Ireland, Malaysia Airlines. Asia's Leading Airline 2009

n Tourism Thailand n Uniquely Singapore

Asia’s Leading Airline n Air China n Air India n Asiana Airlines n Cathay Pacific Airways n China Airlines n China Southern Airlines n Japan Airlines n Korean Air n Malaysia Airlines n Royal Brunei Airlines n Singapore Airlines n SriLankan Airlines n Thai Airways International Asia’s Leading Meetings & Conference Hotel n Akasaka Prince Hotel, Japan n Fairmont Singapore n Grand Hyatt Shanghai, China n Hotel Equatorial Penang, Malaysia n Hotel Lotte Busan, South Korea n InterContinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong n Renaissance Mumbai Hotel & Convention Center, India n Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers n Taj Palace Hotel New Delhi, India n The Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, Thailand n The Ritz-Carlton Millenia, Singapore n The Venetian Macau Asia’s Leading Tourist Board n China National Tourism Administration n Incredible India n Japan National Toursit Organization n Ministry of Culture and Tourism Indonesia n Philippines n Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau n Tourism Malaysia

Australasia’s Leading Beach Destination n Abel Tasman National Park, South Island, New Zealand n Aitutaki, One Foot Island, Cook Islands n Bondi Beach n Cable Beach, Broome, WA, Australia n Matira Beach, Bora Bora, French Polynesia n Ninety Mile Beach, North Island, New Zealand n Palm Beach n Return to Paradise Beach, Afega, Samoa n Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Islands, QLD, Australia n Wine Glass Bay, Freycinet National Park, Tasmania, Australia Australasia’s Leading Business Travel Agent n Corporate Travel Management n FCm Travel Solutions n Phil Hoffman Travel n Pure Travel n Sta Travel n United Travel Hamilton Australasia’s Leading Green Hotel n Cradle Mountain Lodge, Australia n Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa, Australia n InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa, French Polynesia n Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort n Longitude 131° Ayer's Rock, Australia Waipoua Lodge, New Zealand

For the full list of Asia & Australasia 2010 nominees visit www.worldtravelawards.com/nominees

worldtravelawards.com

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One destination, a world of distinction

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‘The Oscars of the Travel Industry’ Wall Street Journal

World Travel Awards South America Ceremony 2010 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil • 20 October 2010 The World Travel Awards South America Ceremony 2010 will take place this October in the spectacular city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Travel and tourism companies and organisations from across the region, representing every industry sector, will be fighting for their chance to be recognised by the ‘Oscars’ of the travel industry. Rio de Janeiro is the second major city of Brazil, behind Sao Paolo, and is unquestionably one of the most exciting cities in the world, with natural wonders, iconic beaches, and the nightlife as legendary as the city’s Carnival. The World Travel Awards South America Ceremony is timed to coincide with ABAV 2010 -Fair of the Americas, taking place 20-22 October in Rio. It is the biggest and most important tourism event held in the Americas.

Elizabeth Hakim, PromPeru - Peruvian Tourism Board, with Miss Venezuela. South America’s Leading Tourist Board 2009

Meet World Travel Awards team at Funkturm Tower @ ITB, outside Halls 14, 15 and 17 meet-at-itb@worldtravelawards.com

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“

The awards have been making a steady and significant, long-term impact.” The Financial Times

Here is a selection of 2010 South America nominees… South America’s Leading Business Travel Agency n Rotamund n Sintectur n Superdestinos n Turismo Pecom n Viajes Calitour

South America’s Leading Resort n Arasha Tropical Forest Resort & Spa, Ecuador n Casa Grande Hotel Resort & Spa, Brazil n Conrad Punta Del Este Resort & Casino, Uruguay n Costa do Sauipe Marriott Resort & Spa, Brazil n Costao Do Santinho Resort n Four Seasons Resort Carmelo, Uruguay n Iguazu Grand Hotel Resort & Casino, Argentina n InterContinental Hotel Valencia, Venezuela n Llao Llao Hotel & Resort n Mantra Resort Spa & Casino, Uruguay n Royal Palm Hotel, Ecuador n Villarrica Park Lake Hotel, Chile

South America’s Leading Cruise Line n Carnival Cruise Line n Celebrity Cruises n Costa Cruises n Fred Olsen Cruise Lines n Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Andre Beraha, Amazonas Tur; Miss Brazil; Antonio Pedro F. de Mello, Secretary of Tourism, State of Rio de Janeiro. South America’s Leading Green Destination 2009 South America’s Leading Destination 2009

South America’s Leading Cruise Port n Buenos Aires, Argentina n Callao (Lima) n Puerto Valparaiso n Rio de Janeiro (port) n Santiago (Valparaiso) South America’s Leading Golf Resort n Bourbon Iguassu Golf Club & Resort, Brazil n Four Seasons Resort Carmelo, Uruguay n Hesperia Isla Margarita, Venezuela n Hotel Do Frade & Golf Resort n Hotel Transamérica Ilha de Comandatuba, Brazil n Llao Llao Hotel & Resort, Argentina n Terravista Golf Resort, Brazil n Yacht y Golf Club Paraguayo, Paraguay

South America’s Leading Ski Resort n Gran Hotel Termas de Chillán, Chile n Hotel Piscis, Las Lenas Resort, Argentina n Llao Llao Hotel & Resort, Argentina n Villarrica Park Lake Hotel, Chile

For the full list of South America 2010 nominees visit www.worldtravelawards.com/nominees David Falcon, Senior Vice President, World Travel Awards; Arthur Repsold, Chairman, Rio Centro; Miss Rio de Janeiro. South America’s Leading Conference Centre 2008

worldtravelawards.com

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The die is cast. Zurich Airport has once again been named Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Airport by the World Travel Awards, making 2009 the sixt year in a row. As the gateway to the European Alps, Zurich offers you the best service: connecting you to 120 destinations, allowing you to quickly reach the city center, and providing you with convenient connections to all Swiss cities and bordering countries. www.zurich-airport.com

14:05:17 Uhr

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‘The Oscars of the Travel Industry’ Wall Street Journal

World Travel Awards Grand Final Ceremony 2010 London, United Kingdom • 7 November 2010 The World Travel Awards Grand Final is the culmination of a year-long search for the very best travel brands in the world, covering seven continents and featuring over 3,600 nominees.

Etihad Airways. World's Leading Airline 2009, World's Leading Airline First Class 2009

Winners from the six regional events will fight it out for the ultimate travel accolade. The ceremony, taking place in London on 7 November 2010, will reveal who is ‘the best of the best’, and will be a celebration of the outstanding achievements of the travel industry.

Muhairi, Director General, Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority and James Hogan, CEO, Etihad Airways.

Also in attendance was Antonio Pedro F. de Mello, Secretary of Tourism, State of Rio de Janeiro; Tan Sri Dr. Mohd. Munir bin Abdul Majid, Chairman, Malaysia Airlines; Raj Nearly 1000 senior management and Kamal Taposeea, Chairman, Air Mauritius; Bruce Nobles, President and decision makers from the world's CEO, Air Jamaica; John Watson, CEO, travel and tourism industry came Diethelm Travel Group; Mikael together at the 2009 Grand Final. Andersson, VP Expedia EMEA, Some of the thought leaders who were present included: Jean-Claude Expedia.co.uk; Gerard Greene, CEO, Baumgarten, President, WTTC; Kumari IFA Hotels & Resorts FZ LLC, Luiz Mor, Selja, Minister of Tourism, India; Steve Executive Director, TAP Portugal and Ridgway, CEO, Virgin Atlantic Airways; Jehan de The, Global Marketing Hon. Ed Bartlett, Minister of Tourism, Director, Europcar. Jamaica; His Excellency Mubarak Al

The World Travel Awards Grand Final 2010 is the must-attend event of the year. Tickets to World Travel Awards events are always in high demand, therefore early booking is always recommended. To secure your seats for this mustattend event for senior decision makers and global media, please contact our events team using the details below: Email: booking@worldtravelawards.com Telephone: +44 (0)207 925 0000

Meet World Travel Awards team at Funkturm Tower @ ITB, outside Halls 14, 15 and 17 meet-at-itb@worldtravelawards.com

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Here is a selection of 2010 World nominees…

Xavier Luc Duval, Vice Prime Minister, Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, accepting the award from hosts Bobby Davro and Tamara Beckwith. Mauritius - World’s Leading Island Destination 2009

World’s Leading Airline Business Class n Aerolineas Argentinas n Air Jamaica n Air New Zealand n Air Seychelles n American Airlines n British Airways n Cathay Pacific Airways n Emirates n Etihad Airways n Lufthansa n Malaysia Airlines n Qatar Airways n Singapore Airlines n Virgin Atlantic Airways World’s Leading Cruise Travel Agent n African Safari Club n Cruise Line n Cruises.com n MSC Cruises n Page and Moy n Paradissa Travel - Ha Noi n Thomas Cook n Travel Store USA n www.cruise.co.uk

Dato Lee Choong Yan, President, Genting Highlands Resort with Miss World. World's Leading Casino Resort 2009

World’s Leading Design Hotel n Adam & Eve at Belek, Turkey n Almyra, Cyprus n Bulgari Hotels and Resorts Bali n Devi Garh, India n Faena Hotel & Universe, Argentina n Hillside SU, Turkey n Hilton Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia n Hotel Victor South Beach, USA n Indigo Pearl, Thailand n La Reserve Geneve Hotel & Spa, Switzerland n Lebua at State Tower n Metropolitan Bangkok, Thailand n Sanderson Hotel, England n Shamwari Town House n The Chedi Muscat, Oman n The Lalu Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan n The Park - New Delhi, India n The Setai South Beach, USA

World’s Leading Green Destination n Amazonas Tur n Aspen, Colorado USA n Bouma National Heritage Park Taveuni, Fiji Island n British Columbia Great Bear Rainforest, Canada n Costa Rica n Cousine Island, Seychelles n Dominica n Eden Project, Cornwall, England n Jock Safari Lodge n Kanha National Park, India n Sanbona Wildlife Reserve n Shamwari Game Reserve n The New Forest, England n Tobago Main Ridge Rain Forest World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination n Antigua n Barbados n Jamaica n Las Vegas n Maldives n Mauritius n St. Lucia n Thailand n The Seychelles Islands World’s Leading Tourism Development Project n Bahia Bay - Emaar n City Centre - MGM Mirage n Dubai Towers Doha - Sama Dubai n Dubai Towers Dubai - Sama Dubai n Dubailand - Tatweer n King Abdullah City - Emaar n Prince George’s Dock Nassau Port Bahamas n Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) n The Blue City - Sultanate of Oman n The Palm Jumeirah - Nakheel n The Wave - Muscat n Yas Island - Aldar

For the full list of World 2010 nominees visit www.worldtravelawards.com/nominees Mark Douglas, Vice President, American Express; Graham Cooke, President & Founder, World Travel Awards. World's Leading Business Travel Agency 2009

worldtravelawards.com

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InterContinental The Palace Port Ghalib Resort Strategically located on the Red Sea Riviera, Port Ghalib is a haven for business and leisure travelers. The resort is situated only 5 kilometers from Marsa Alam International Airport, 210 kilometers from the city of Hurghada and 370 kilometers from the city of Luxor. InterContinental The Palace Port Ghalib Resort lies in the heart of Port Ghalib Resort, and is the perfect retreat for travelers looking to relax and rejuvenate as well as an exceptional meeting destination.

ACCOMODATION Featuring 309 luxuriously appointed rooms with its own balcony, including 14 suites and 3 disabled rooms. The property provides guests with extensive views from every angle, from the enchanting Red Sea to the azure waters of the manmade saltwater swimming lagoon.

P. O. Box 23, Port Ghalib, Marsa Alam, Red Sea, Egypt Tel: + 20 65 336 0000 Fax: + 20 65 336 0025 ICPalace.PortGhalib@ihg.com www.intercontinental.com/portghalib

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DINING InterContinental The Palace Port Ghalib Resort features extensive indoor and outdoor dining options, where guests can feast on delicacies from around the globe, varying between Arabian, Lebanese, and Mediterranean with magnificent views of the Red Sea, the saltwater swimming lagoon or Port Ghalib International Marina. In addition to the special themed entertainment program. If you are looking for something unique, don’t miss the private Bedouin Experience in the desert located 11 akilometers from Port Ghalib. Traditional Bedouins offer candlelit dinners under the stars with local Bedouin entertainment and desert camel rides.

MEETINGS & EVENTS The Resort boasts Port Ghalib International Convention Centre, the largest hotel banquet venue on the Red Sea. The Centre offers a meeting space of 1,950 square meters able to seat 2,000 delegates in an extraordinary ball room, in addition to 16 break-out rooms and a dignitary salon. The banqueting rooms feature sophisticated state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment accommodating even the most professional presentations. A separate dedicated conference entrance with its spacious foyer provides a perfect area for delegate registrations or special welcome cocktails.

SIX SENSES SPA – EGYPT’S LEADING SPA The leading Spa in Egypt, located in InterContinental The Palace Port Ghalib Resort and operated by world-renowned Six Senses Spas, provides an ideal option for guests looking to relax, reduce stress and balance the senses. The comprehensive spa menu offers massage and beauty treatments delivered using naturally derived and ethically produced spa products. Tailor-made spa programs combine Red Sea healing therapies with Asian and Six Senses’ signature treatments to improve the condition and vitality of the body. The spa includes 16 treatment areas including three couples’ rooms, two Thai treatment rooms, and one wet treatment room with classically designed stone beds. The spa includes extensive heat experiences such as traditional hammams and a separate wet room offers a steam, shower, and a state-of-the-art ice room.

SHOPPING & LEISURE The resort offers a half kilometer stretch on Port Ghalib International Marina of retail outlets on the Corniche, in addition to the traditional Egyptian Khan bazaar. In addition to the widest range of water and land activities on the Red Sea, including safaris, snorkeling trips, diving, submarine and boat cruises, speed boats, lazy river rafting, horseback and camel riding, 4x4 Safaris, jogging trail, tennis and table tennis.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Oscars of the Travel Industryâ&#x20AC;? Wall Street Journal

World Travel Awards Grand Tour 2010 Dubai - Johannesburg - Orlando - Antalya - Delhi - Rio de Janiero - London Our events are attended by the top level decision makers - more than 70 percent of our attendees are Director level or above. Our events are the perfect platform to gain your brand top-level exposure. Our events are famed for the great networking opportunities. For more information and to book tickets please email: booking@worldtravelawards.com

worldtravelawards.com

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SSardinia ardinia LOOKING LOO OKING FOR A TREASURE, TREASURE, I FOU UND FOUND AN IISLAND S AND SL www.fortevillageresort.com www .fforrtevillageresort.com

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Special Interview strengthen our lobbying power. To strengthen the local hotel associations in the various island states. To strengthen linkages between the hotel industry and local agriculture, which in turn assists our lobbying efforts and builds support for tourism in local economies. To build brand awareness for the Caribbean region through combined marketing and advertising efforts. BTN: What trends in tourism do you predict for 2010?

Josef Forstmayr is the Managing Director of Jamaica’s exclusive Round Hill Hotel & Villas, voted “World’s Leading Villa” seven years running by the World Travel Awards. A highly-respected and popular leader in Caribbean hospitality, he has also used the success of Round Hill to initiate sustainable projects within the local parish. In June he also becomes President of the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association, and will be the voice of tourism in the region. BTN spoke to him to find out his thoughts ahead of ITB 2010.

Cool lodgings BTN: How would you describe the Round Hill experience? JF: We are one of the most beautiful and elegant boutique resorts in the Caribbean, where understated glamour, discreet impeccable service, attention to detail and warm Jamaican hospitality define the experience. BTN: How would you like the resort to evolve? JF: Since Round Hill has a very illustrious and successful history, our efforts focus on building on the success of our founder, John

Pringle, who was one of the visionaries of Jamaica’s tourism industry in the 1950s. We will continue to provide service excellence at all levels with a strong focus on honesty, integrity and authenticity. BTN: In November you won “World’s Leading Villa” at the 2009 World Travel Awards for the seventh year running. What plans do you have this year to remain the world leader? JF: We are continuously investing in training our staff to deliver the highest levels of personal service in

JF: Many times during international crisis we find great opportunities and demand for places which evoke an unspoiled and unhurried lifestyle and environment. This need plus the relatively easy access from some of the wealthiest regions in the world (North America, Europe) makes the Caribbean a perfect candidate for renewed growth during the expected worldwide economic recovery in 2010. My outlook for the region is therefore very positive. BTN: What’s your favourite resort excluding Round Hill and why? JF: My favourite resort aside from Round Hill is MY secret. I need to get away quietly at times. It is simple, rustic and a hidden gem somewhere in Jamaica. BTN: How would you describe your perfect resort of the future?

each villa. Our newly-installed villa concierge programme will assist all our guests, from the moment of making a reservation until their departure, to ensure that each experience will live up to our high standards. Naturally, the greatest asset in that effort is the warmth of the Jamaican people. BTN: In June you become President of the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association. What plans due you have for your term in office? JF: To bring in as many of the large chains into the association to

JF: I do not believe that there is such a thing as a “perfect resort” which would appeal to all. As the world becomes more developed and connected, our need to express our individualism grows. Hence, the more tailored and individual an experience will be, the more successful the enterprise. BTN: What is your strategy for dealing with the global downturn? And how does it shape your role at CHTA, as well as at Round Hill? JF: Round Hill prepared for a most difficult year in late 2008 and we cut costs drastically to minimize the impact to our bottom line. Our estimates and early actions proved correct and we ended the year with better than expected profits. Focus on our core audience (highend US east coast, UK and Europe) in our winter/peak demand season as well as working with niche markets (e.g. destination weddings, family reunions) during the summer will continue to be the driving force for business for 2010 for Round Hill.

roundhilljamaica.com

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Special Interview key regional players such as HE Sheikh Mubarak Abdulla Al Mubarak Al Sabah, Chairman, Action Hotels; HE Saif Mohamed Al Hajeri, Chairman, Abu Dhabi National Hotels; Mansour Amer, Chairman, AMER Group and global leaders such as Eric Danziger, President & CEO, Wyndham Hotel Group and Kurt Ritter, President & CEO, The Rezidor Hotel Group.

ourselves once again. The first night is being hosted by Jumeirah at the beautiful Mina A’Salaam and the second night we are lucky enough to be among the first functions to be held at the new Armani Hotel in the Burj Khalifa. It is yet to officially open and is the first Armani Hotel in the world, who knows what surprises Emaar has in store for us?

BTN: What is the inspiration behind this year’s theme, “Unlocking Investment Opportunities in the Middle East and North Africa”?

BTN: Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, is the winner of this year’s AHIC Leadership Award. Why was he chosen?

JW: The AHIC advisory board, which comprises over 40 of the most influential names in the Middle East hospitality industry, came up with the theme at our annual meeting. We wanted to reflect that there is a vast range of profitable and sustainable opportunities available to investors in the Middle East and North Africa. I really like the theme as it reflects the optimism of many who are already active in the region. BTN: Which speakers are you looking forward most to hearing?

Unlocking investment opportunities at AHIC In May, Dubai’s Madinat Jumeirah plays host to the 6th Arabian Hotel Investment Conference. This year’s event promises to be the most exciting yet, with new formats, hot topics, as well the participation of tourism ministers for the first time. BTN met AHIC’s co-organiser, Jonathan Worsley, to find out what he has planned.

BTN: What do you have planned from this year’s AHIC? JW: This year we have expanded the scope of the content and played with new formats. In response to feedback from both attendees and the advisory board, we have included more plenary sessions and networking opportunites. So we have more high-level discussions mixed in with interactive sessions such as ‘Ask the Experts’, which is a new

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initiative. The idea is to give delegates ‘face time’ with ‘experts’ to answer questions which are directly related to their business. BTN: How are preparations going? JW: Excellent, thank you! Organising a speaking faculty of over 90 of MENA’s leading industry figures can be challenging! But our efforts have paid off and 2010’s speaking faculty is a great mix of

JW: I don’t want to get myself into trouble by playing favourites! I am excited to hear what all of our speakers have to say as they bring new and fresh insight every year. That said, I am looking forward to our ‘Country Forum’ hosted by John Defterios of CNN. We have the tourism ministers of Egypt, Morocco and Oman participating as well as high-level representation from Saudi Arabia. It is the first time we have tourism ministers participating in AHIC and it will add a different, very powerful, voice to the conversation. BTN: What were your highlights from AHIC 2009? JW: The frankly, unexpected, good feeling over the three days of last year’s event was a highlight for me. To be honest, we really did not know what to expect going into 2009’s event. Numbers were down, a lot of people were uncertain about their job security and there was a great deal of pessimism in the market. However, that was precisely why industry executives attended: for answers. Delegates were keen for information. The uncertainty in the market generated a great deal of genuine discussion and debate. There was a collective realisation that yes, the world had changed, but it had not ended and there was still business being done. We all walked away feeling more positive. The networking receptions were also a highlight for me. There was a palpable buzz and a great networking on both nights. This year we are hoping to out-do

JW: Sheikh Sultan was voted the winner by the AHIC Advisory Board. In his roles as Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) and Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) he has played a vital role in developing Abu Dhabi as one of the region’s emerging tourism and cultural destinations. BTN: How would you describe the Middle East hospitality sector in 2010? JW: The Middle East hotel sector has a great deal of untapped potential. In the flurry of 2009’s end-of-year reports, there emerged positive signs for the Middle East from a number of quarters. The International Air Transport Association, for example, showed that MENA regional airlines grew overall passenger traffic by 11.2% in 2009. Importantly, a significant portion of this growth was from the major airlines in the region making further inroads into Asia and Europe, which will help generate additional demand for accommodation in MENA. On the other end of the spectrum, 2009 also saw a number of regional low-cost airlines start to build a foothold with the launch of a couple of new players. No doubt they will be significant in transforming the domestic tourism and hotel market in the Middle East. Local players such as Rotana and Action Hotels are really moving into this family, mid-market segment which has previously been untapped. Regional travel is going to be a key driver of demand in the future and is one of topics highlighted for discussion at AHIC.

Arabian Hotel Investment Conference, 1-3 May 2010, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

arabianconference.com

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Special Interview

Half Moon sets clear path forward One of the premier luxury resorts in the Caribbean, Half Moon, has focused on infrastructure development and upgrading facilities over the past six years including construction of a new line of suites and a 68,000 square foot spa. Its new landmark luxury villa development, The Colony at Half Moon, promises to position the resort as one of the world’s leading timeshare developments. BTN caught up with Half Moon’s Managing Director, Richard Whitfield, to find out about the most recent developments.

BTN: At CHTA in Puerto Rico in January, you wanted to educate your travel partners about the continuing evolution of facilities at Half Moon. What are you hoping to achieve at ITB Berlin 2010? RW: The mission of educating and informing our partners continues. This is an ongoing element of our marketing plan. At Half Moon there is a constant evolution of our product and the channels through which we can transact business. For example, we will launch a revamped website in May and will soon be accessible on Facebook and Twitter. It is our challenge to ensure our partners are aware of these changes. BTN: Before the financial crisis of 2008, Half Moon was planning a major residential development, The Colony at Half Moon. Now that credit markets are opening up do you envisage breaking ground any time soon? RW: The Colony at Half Moon is a keystone of our future planning since it will offer the ultimate in resort living to the purchasers and enable us to rationalize much of our back of house operations. All the plans and approvals are in near readiness and can be activated as soon as the market indications are favourable. We

have maintained a small sales function related to the project but I do not see this development starting in 2010.

and tour operators changed over time and what travel partner incentive programmes have you introduced?

BTN: What will set The Colony at Half Moon apart from other resort residential properties in the Caribbean?

RW: We have always been a travel agent and tour operator-friendly resort. We consider travel agents and tour operators to be an extension of our sales team and we honour our partnerships by paying commissions promptly, entering into joint promotions and not luring clients away from their travel professionals. We pay commissions to agents on booking made through our website. We offer product education through site visits, webinars and on-line training that helps agents become Half Moon specialists. Each year we recognize our top performing partners as Ambassadors at a spectacular three-day event at the resort. Furthermore, through our online concierge services, we are developing much closer personal relationships with our agents and their clients. We get to know the clients even before they arrive and it makes it easier for them to slip straight into holiday mode upon arrival.

RW: The Colony at Half Moon is a residential project where the usual promises of resort facilities are already a reality. As the owners take possession of their homes they will immediately benefit from the 56-year plus development of the renowned Half Moon resort. They will have access to two miles of beachfront, two large swimming pools and a Olympic-size lap pool (in addition to the private pool at their villa), wonderful restaurants, Fern Tree – a unique spa facility, Robert Trent Jones championship golf course, 11 tennis courts, squash courts, fabulous fitness centre, children’s and teen facilities, equestrian centre, swim with the dolphins facility, shopping an on-site medical facility and more. Put this together with Jamaica’s unrivalled airlift and The Colony becomes an unmatched prospect for those looking to own property in the Caribbean. BTN: How have your relationships with your travel partners such as travel agents

BTN: How have you used your World Travel Award titles “Caribbean’s Leading Conference Hotel”, “Jamaica’s Leading Resort” and “Jamaica’s

Leading Golf Resort” in your 2010 marketing strategies? RW: There is no doubt that our success at the World Travel Awards has brought recognition to this venerable resort. Recognition from our peers and partners is highly valued and we have woven many a marketing campaign in print, on the web and through email campaigns around these significant achievements. BTN: With travellers taking shorter added value trips during the recession, have you seen an increase in multidestination trips to the Caribbean? RW: We have not seen evidence of a huge shift to multi-destination trips. One of the factors inhibiting multi-destination travel within the Caribbean is the poor air service between the islands. What we have seen is shorter trips booked at the last minute. In particular, long weekends seem to be more popular than ever. Given Jamaica’s proximity to the huge North American market and its extensive airlift from a wide variety of North American gateway cities we are in a very good position to be able to take advantage of this trend.

halfmoon.com

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Mövenpick offers honeymoon in Mauritius Set under starlit skies on the romantic beaches of Mauritius, Mövenpick Resort & Spa is this year offering guests a chance to enjoy a once in a lifetime honeymoon experience. You and a loved one will share a journey of love as you enjoy the hotel’s tailor-made package, taking in sparkling wine and fruit baskets upon arrival and a complimentary upgrade to a Junior Suite with a private Jacuzzi.

All this is on offer amid the preserved nature of Bel Ombre, on the southern-western coasts of Mauritius. The Mövenpick hotel draws from its unique location, inspiring elegance and serenity from the entrance onward, constantly guiding the eyes towards the surrounding nature. The exceptional location of the resort, between lush tropical vegetation and speechless crystal blue water lagoons also makes it the ideal starting point for day excursions on Mauritius.

Sunset Mauritius Located off the east coast of Africa, this tropical island of 1,800 square kilometres is bordered by 150 kilometres of coastline and is almost entirely surrounded by a lagoon. Approximately one million inhabitants of different origins live peacefully together, creating a melting pot of cultures, religions and languages – with temperatures just above 30°C in the summer months. No vaccinations or visas are required for EU nationals, keeping paperwork to a minimum.

Mövenpick Resort Once in Mauritius, the resort has something for everybody. For those wanting to relax, the spa is available with an array of different treatments; such as body wraps, saunas and scrubs. While those who want to be active will find the hotel offers a large number or land/water sports; such as tennis, volleyball and windsurfing. Accommodation is in spacious and luxuriously designed rooms, suites and villas – all of which offer the ultimate in comfort and are spread through casuarinas, coconut trees, frangipanes, hibiscus and bougainvilleas in ten acres of tropical gardens. All appointed into a classical style, with wooden or palm thatch roofs, with terrace or balcony overlooking t he Indian Ocean. Space and tranquillity are the key words to define this unique resort. Only 45 minutes transfer from international airport, Mövenpick Resort & Spa is also accessible and could be the ideal place to celebrate with that special someone.

moevenpick-hotels.com

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Review

The iconic Poseidonion Hotel on the Greek island of Spetses has joined the Grace Hotels Group following a meticulous and painstaking five-year restoration programme.

Poseidonion Hotel partners with Grace Hotels Group The waterfront property, renamed the Poseidonion Grace, has been an historical meeting place since it opened nearly a century ago. The restoration has seen it restored to its former glory, plus a host of new twists that meet the very highest of international luxury standards. The hotel has also been nominated in the category for “Europe’s Leading New Boutique Hotel” at the 2010 World Travel Awards. The Greek hospitality landmark now comprises 45 rooms and seven large apartment suites, an all-new spa and three restaurants. The hotel lies on one of the closest island resorts to Athens and joins the group’s other unique properties. Its Côte d’Azur style echoes the stature of the many private villas that dominate a picturesque island associated with the glory years of Greek shipping. Following the five-year restoration, the Poseidonion

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Grace has been brought fully up to date with the finest facilities, fixtures, and fittings that meet the highest standards of international luxury travellers while carefully preserving the original architecture of the building. The hotel is located in the historical heart of Spetses town and occupies an imposing seafront location. The jewel in the Poseidonion Grace is the spectacular Grace Suite featuring three double bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms and its own 100 square metre terrace with breathtaking views to the sea. Another unique suite is the splitlevel ‘La Cupola’ that occupies the hotel’s central roof dome. This open plan space features wooden beams, relaxing pastel colours and a 120 square metre private terrace with panoramic views of Spetses town and the surrounding landscape. Finally the intimate and romantic Honeymoon Suite features the

added indulgence of its own private swimming pool. The Poseidonion Grace offers diners a choice of three restaurants. In addition to the fine dining restaurant there is a brasserie for lighter meals. Both are located on the main hotel terrace overlooking the sea. Also available during the months of July and August will be a Japanese Fusion restaurant. Supplying the restaurants with fresh organic fruit, vegetables and herbs are the hotel’s own ‘bio gardens’. These beautiful gardens are an attraction in their own right – guests are invited to visit this feast for the taste buds and sample the local produce. Private dining can even be arranged within the gardens. The hotel wellbeing spa offers a range of soothing, healing and beauty treatments based on local herbal remedies – part of a long tradition at the Poseidonion which nearly 100 years ago became the first hotel in Greece to offer therapies based on the natural healing properties of sea water. Recent spa additions include hairdressing and a nail bar. Commenting on the partnership, Philippe Requin, CEO of Grace Hotels said: “We are immensely proud to welcome the Poseidonion Grace into the family. This hotel has been a gathering place and a source of legendary hospitality for almost a century.” “Today marks the latest chapter in the rich history of one of the most distinguished landmarks on Spetses. We are committed to preserving the character and charm of the Poseidonion and continuing the existing

cooperation with the local community while introducing those touches of style, refinement and service.” Despite its grand architecture, Spetses has managed to retain a serene island atmosphere. Private cars are banned and the use of other motor vehicles is severely restricted. The horse and carriage remains the most popular form of transport for both islanders and visitors. Access to Spetses from the mainland couldn’t be easier: there is a direct ferry from the port of Piraeus in Athens or a 15-minute water taxi ride from Kosta port – a two-hour scenic drive from Athens with some great sightseeing options on the way. Alternatively, helicopters land within minutes of the Poseidonion Grace. The Grace Hotels Group luxury boutique hotel group aims to offer sanctuary and quality to discerning guests in the world’s most sought after resorts and cities. The Grace Santorini was named Greece’s Leading Boutique Hotel at the 2009 World Travel Awards. The company has plans for more Grace hotels in the Mediterranean and is currently embarking on global expansion of the brand with a property opening in New England in 2010 and others following in North and South America.

poseidoniongrace.com

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BTN Calendar 2010 March 15 Mar – 18 Mar

Cruise Shipping Miami Miami, United States cruiseshippingmiami.com 17 Mar – 20 Mar

MITT – Moscow International Travel & Tourism Moscow, Russia mitt.ru 24 Mar – 25 Mar

Social Media Strategies for Travel San Francisco, United States events.eyefortravel.com

4 May ATM – Arabian Travel Market Dubai, United Arab Emirates arabiantravelmarket.com 8 May – 11 May INDABA Durban ICC, South Africa indaba-southafrica.co.za 9 May – 12 May 11th Annual Caribbean Conference on Sustainable Tourism Bridgetown, Barbados OneCaribbean.org

UITT Kiev, Ukraine uitt-kiev.com

15 May – 19 May

29 Mar – 31 Mar

5 Oct – 6 Oct

Business Travel Market

Online Marketing & Social Media Strategies for Travel Summit

London, United Kingdom businesstravelmarket.co.uk 17 Jun – 18 Jun

Travel Distribution Summit Europe

Prague, Czech Republic events.eyefortravel.com/onlinemarketing-and-social-media/

London, United Kingdom events.eyefortravel.com/tds

13 Oct – 14 Oct

July

Illinois, United States events.eyefortravel.com/tdsusa/ conference/

Travel Distribution Summit North America

5 Jul – 9 Jul 12 May – 14 May CHIC – China Hotel Investment Conference Shanghai, China chinahotelconference.com

24 Mar – 26 Mar

16 Jun – 17 Jun

World Sport Destination Expo Johannesburg, South Africa worldsportdestinationexpo.com

14 Oct

World Travel Awards Asia & Australasia Gala Ceremony New Delhi, India worldtravelawards.com

International Pow Wow

7 Jul

GIBTM – Gulf Incentive Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition

Orlando, United States orlandoinfo.com/powwow

World Travel Awards Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony

25 May – 27 May

Johannesburg, South Africa worldtravelawards.com

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates gibtm.com

Global Travel & Tourism Summit

April

Beijing, China globaltraveltourism.com

August

20 Oct – 22 Oct

ITB Asia Suntec Singapore www1.messe-berlin.de/vip8_1/ website/Internet/Internet/www.itb -asia/englisch/index.html

31 Aug – 2 Sept 19 Apr – 22 Apr

25 May – 27 May

CIBTM

ASTA International Destination Expo

IMEX

Beijing, China cibtm.com

20 Oct

September

World Travel Awards South America Gala Ceremony

Istanbul, Turkey asta.org

Frankfurt, Germany imex-frankfurt.com

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil worldtravelawards.com

27 May – 29 May 28 Apr – 29 Apr

World Travel Fair

Travel Distribution Summit Asia

Shanghai, China worldtravelfair.com.cn

Singapore, China events.eyefortravel.com/tdasia

29 May – 4 Jun

Australian Tourism Exchange

May 1 May – 3 May AHIC – Arabian Hotel Investment Conference Dubai, United Arab Emirates arabianconference.com

3 May World Travel Awards Middle East Gala Ceremony The Address Dubai Marina, Dubai, United Arab Emirates worldtravelawards.com

4 May – 6 May Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Investment Conference Puerto Rico, Puerto Rico caribbeanhotelandtourism.com

Adelaide, Australia tourism.australia.com

25 Oct – 27 Oct 11 Sept

World Travel Awards North & Central America and Caribbean Gala Ceremony Orlando, United States worldtravelawards.com

Russia & CIS Hotel Investment Conference Moscow, Russia russia-cisconference.com

November

June 12 Sept – 14 Sept 2 Jun – 3 Jun

The Trade Show

Online Marketing Strategies for Travel for USA

Orlando, Florida thetradeshow.org

Miami, United States events.eyefortravel.com/onlinemarketing/agenda.asp

14 Sept – 17 Sept

HICA Johannesburg, SA hica.co.za/article/home

PATA Travel Mart Macau, China pata.org

10 Jun – 13 Jun

ITE – The 24th International Travel Expo Hong Kong

4 Nov – 6 Nov

October

Wanchai, Hong Kong itehk.com/ITEHK/index.php 14 Jun – 17 Jun

1 Oct

ALTM – Asia Luxury Travel Market

World Travel Awards Europe Gala Ceremony

Shanghai, China shzlzx.com.cn/E_gsjj.htm

Antalya, Turkey worldtravelawards.com

7 Nov

World Travel Awards Grand Final Gala Ceremony London, United Kingdom worldtravelawards.com

For the full listing of events visit www.breakingtravelnews.com/events

breakingtravelnews.com

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All internet enabled devices point into the same web. Having websites that give an optimised user experience across digital touch points is essential for your brand.

One web All digital screens look into the one web. Is your brand optimised for mobile internet? For many of us, The Matrix Trilogy represented the time when we began to question our own surroundings and what reality truly meant. As the main characters plugged in and out of reality, battled software programmes in the human form of government agents, and struggled for the survival of the human species, one of the big philosophical questions that was raised was whether or not it was possible for our technology to outpace humanity. Before even reading the script, the producers Wachowski Brothers asked Keanu Reeves to read Out of Control: The New Biology of Machines, Social Systems, and the Economic World by Kevin Kelly, the Founder and Executive Editor of Wired Magazine, in which Kelly investigates the intersection of computer science, biology, systems theory, cybernetics, and artificial intelligence with an in depth look at what he calls â&#x20AC;&#x153;vivisystemsâ&#x20AC;? or lifelike, complex, engineered systems capable of growing in complexity. At a TED Talk in Dec 2007, Kelly spoke of an internet that was 5,000 days old and how it was growing exponentially in complexity. The most important aspect of his talk was the fact that the web is one machine and that all screens look into the one web. From this perspective, Kelly sees our computer monitors, laptops, and mobile phones as windows into one web. Realizing the importance of the web, businesses invested heavily in creating functional websites

www.breakingtravelnews.com

with commerce capabilities. Now that web enabled mobile phones are coming onto the market and data tariff rates are reducing barriers, businesses must realize the importance of mobile websites especially since there will be a momentous shift in the market â&#x20AC;&#x201C; more smart phones will be sold than PCs by 2011. Without a website optimised for the mobile internet, consumers will be viewing full PC websites on their mobile phone resulting in a poor user experience and unsatisfied customers. Mobile websites are specifically designed and tailored for the internet on mobile devices and formatted for the smaller screen size. They are therefore quicker to download and allow users to search for information with fewer clicks and scrolls. A mobile device requires an entirely different user experience. The device is smaller. The screen is minuscule compared to other desktop displays. Input methods are often different than that of a QWERTY keyboard and the user might access the mobile web using one hand while the other hand holds a cup of coffee or grips a train handle. The PC took 30 years to reach 85 million people and the mobile phone took 35 years to reach 2.7 billion. Increasingly, mobile phones are becoming internet enabled and therefore having sites optimised for all portals looking into the one web are essential for consumers to have the best user experience in order to maintain brand integrity.

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