28 JANUARY 2012
ISSUE 116
28 JANUARY 2012
ISSUE 116
Rezidor Announces Hotel Missoni Doha The Rezidor Hotel Group and Al Jassim Group is to open a luxury lifestyle hotel in Doha in late 2015.
airberlin recently celebrated its inaugural flight to Abu Dhabi, thanks to Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) and Etihad Airways
06 UAE Welcomes DoubleTree Hilton Worldwide has signed a management agreement with Mohamed Ruqait Real Estate, for the first DoubleTree resort by Hilton in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE.
06 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION AIR NEWS TRAVEL INTERNATIONAL WHO'S MOVED TRAVEL TALK AGENTS' CORNER TRAVEL CHANNELS RENDEZVOUS NEWS & EVENTS
02 04 06 07 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Abu Dhabi Welcomes airberlin
8
2
MARKET UPDATE
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel
Hertz UAE: Online Rental on the Fast Track Online car rental businesses are expected to be huge beneficiaries of the recent online shopping boom across the Middle East, with Hertz UAE anticipating the significant surge in 2011 to continue at the same rate throughout this year.
JOURNALISTS Stefanie Saghbini Rita Kasziba Dominique Christou SALES & MARKETING Maria Demetriadou Brighite Ess Dominique Tennant WEB & LAYOUT Elina Pericleous DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia, 1308, Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 210466 WEBSITE www.traveltradeweekly.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
T
he UAE market leader, which experienced a 35 percent year-on-year increase in online booking for daily and weekly car rentals in 2011, expects reservation methods over the Internet to further engage the public. This follows a recent report by Euromonitor International, which highlighted a major shift in shopping trends across the Arab world, as a growing number of people are ditching long queues in favour of shopping over websites. Based on the study, online shoppers in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt spent a total of USD1.01 billion on Internet retail sites in 2011, and the amount is expected to reach USD2 billion by 2016. “We ran various inbound and outbound campaigns on Hertz.ae and Hertz.com and
Nigel Johnson
used collateral, indoor and outdoor media, and direct marketing to promote both websites,” explained Nigel Johnson, managing director, Hertz UAE. “The increase is split evenly between inbound and domestic UAE business, with the biggest increase inbound coming from western audiences, largely from Europe and the US.”
MENA EXCHANGE RATES Accurate as of
26/01/2012 Currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar
COUNTRY
CURRENCY
UAE (AED)
Dirham
3.67
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
6.04
Saudi Arabia (SAR)
Riyal
3.75
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,505.50
Bahrain (BHD)
Dinar
0.37
Jordan (JOD)
Dinar
0.71
Syria (SYP)
Pound
57.45
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.28
Qatar (QAR)
Riyal
3.64
Oman (OMR)
Rial
0.38
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
1.50
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
8.51
Iran (IRR)
Riyal
11,308.00
Yemen (YER)
Rial
219.26
Algeria (DZD)
Dinar
76.18
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.26
1USD=
JLA Observes Passenger Growth End of year figures for Liverpool John Lennon Airport (JLA) showed that over 230,000 more passengers used the airport in 2011 compared to 2010, with an increase of 4.5 percent. A total of 5.3 million passengers travelled through JLA in 2011, its third busiest year ever and almost reaching 2008 levels. The months of July, August, September, and October were particularly busy, breaking all previous records for the time of year, with the highest month of August welcoming over 580,000 travellers through the terminal making it the busiest month in the airport’s 78-year history. Craig Richmond, CEO, Peel Airports, commented, “News of growth in our passenger numbers is a great achievement for the airport and one that all the staff here can be proud of, particularly when we recognise that this remains an extremely challenging time for all involved in the aviation industry. The many low cost flights available from Liverpool means the region’s passengers can still afford to get away on holiday even during these difficult economic times.”
28 JANUARY 2012
4
WEEKLY NEWS Etihad Airways Begins Flights to Tripoli Etihad Airways recently operated its first flight from Abu Dhabi to Tripoli, the airline’s first new destination of the year, and is the only direct commercial flight between the two cities. James Hogan, CEO, Etihad Airways, commented, “We are delighted to launch this service to Tripoli. Libya is a beautiful country that over the coming months and years will have much to offer both business and leisure travellers. Tripoli is Etihad Airways’ fifth African destination and marks the first time these two Arab capitals have been commercially linked by air.”
The St. Regis Doha Set to Open Scheduled to open on February 28, The St. Regis Doha marks the debut of the St. Regis brand in Qatar and is set to become the premier business and leisure hotel in the country. Tareq Derbas, general manager, The St. Regis Doha, commented on the new property, “We have been building up to this moment for three years. We look forward to welcoming our first guests and to start building the reputation of the hotel as the finest address in Doha.” The St. Regis Doha will offer 336 guest rooms including 70 suites, all offering sea views, and is geared to set new standards in service and luxury in Qatar with the legendary St. Regis butler service provided to all guests. The hotel will further feature 10 restaurants and lounges, ranging from international fine dining venues to Jazz at Lincoln Centre Doha, the first jazz club in Doha. Furthermore, the hotel will also boast 4,000m2 of meeting space, a Remède Spa, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, and seafront cabanas with private Jacuzzis.
We are delighted to launch this service to Tripoli. Libya is a beautiful country that over the coming months and years will have much to offer both business and leisure travellers Doha
H.E. Anwar Gargash, minister, State for Foreign Affairs, UAE, noted that this is a further step in the development of the relationship between the UAE and Libya. “Direct flights will contribute profoundly to the development of trade, investment, and tourism. The new Libya is taking its rightful place among the prosperous nations of northern Africa and the Mediterranean. I have noted with great satisfaction that UAE companies are increasingly turning their attention to Libya for opportunities to cooperate, invest, and do business. This is a clear sign of the positive future our business community sees for this country. Etihad Airways is a leading example of this,” he commented. Furthermore, Aref Ali Nayed, ambassador of Libya, UAE, added, “It represents a new phase of cooperation and mutual support between the two peoples, connecting the gateways of North Africa and the Middle East.”
Promoting Mauritius through Emirates Emirates and the Mauritius Ministry of Tourism have signed an agreement aimed at jointly promoting the island across the airline’s global network. Emirates and Mauritius will engage in the development of a series of joint activities to increase the visibility and awareness of around the 100 plus destinations to which the airline flies. Majid Al Mualla, senior vice president, commercial operations, West Asia and Indian Ocean, Emirates, commented on the collaboration, “The island of Mauritius is a great product and constitutes an important destination amidst our network. We strongly believe in its potential, and our regular increases in frequencies on this route demonstrate that our promotional strategy is the right one and is bringing concrete results.”
28 JANUARY 2012
WEEKLY NEWS
5
Swiss Hospitality Lures MENA travellers Switzerland Tourism aims to increase the number of visitors from the Middle East and North Africa by promoting the country’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
W
ith its picturesque mountains, lakes, and alpine villages, Switzerland has long been a popular winter destination with travellers from all around the world, according to Jörg Peter Krebs, director, India, Middle East, Africa, and Switzerland Tourism. “Switzerland has a very long tradition for winter sports and winter holiday. Our main focus this winter is on snow, sun, and sun terrace. With these three positioning ideas, we would like to communicate that Switzerland has the best and sunniest winter in the Alps,” he said. “Furthermore, our villages and our resorts have been growing authentically since a long
Zürich, Switzerland
time. That is why new and regular guests like to experience winter vacations in Switzerland. Despite the country’s popularity for winter holidays, the number of visitors from the Middle East and North Africa remain relatively low in this season. Switzerland Tourism therefore takes
Etihad Airways and Air Seychelles sign MoU As part of an alliance initiative, the government of the Seychelles and Etihad Airways have signed an MoU whereby Etihad Airways is to acquire a 40 percent stake in Air Seychelles, as well as a five-year management contract set to encourage Air Seychelles’ long-term commercial growth. Etihad Airways’ investment of USD20 million will be matched by an equal capital injection from the Seychelle’s government, in addition to the airline’s plans to provide a shareholder’s loan of USD25 million to meet working capital requirements and support network development. Furthermore, the airlines will sign a comprehensive codeshare agreement to include Etihad Airways’ marketed flights across Air Seychelles’ network and Air Seychelles-marketed flights to Abu Dhabi and Etihad Airways destinations across Europe, the Middle East, the GCC, Asia and Australia. Joel Morgan, minister of Home Affairs, Environment, Transport, and Energy, the Seychelles, commented, “The partnership simultaneously provides international presence, strategic penetration, and a bright future for our national carrier.”
28 JANUARY 2012
a different approach to the Arab traveller. “In general the Middle East and North Africa are not targeted markets for winter vacation. [In this region], we remain on our core business and promote our stylish Swiss cities and our beautiful mountains,” Krebs concluded.
6
WEEKLY NEWS
Rezidor Announces Hotel Missoni Doha The Rezidor Hotel Group and Al Jassim Group is to open a luxury lifestyle hotel in Doha in late 2015. Hotel Missoni Doha, exclusively designed by Rosita Missoni, will feature approximately 200 rooms and 70 serviced apartments. Situated along the C Ring Road in the heart of the capital, the hotel will boast an ideal location just 10 minutes from the international airport and the West Bay, and within close proximity to a number of leisure and entertainment activities.
Hotel Missoni Doha
Sheikh Khalid Bin Jassim Al Thani, CEO, Al Jassim Group, added, “Inspired by Qatar Nation Vision 2030, we actively seek out new partnerships and aim to raise the bar at every opportunity. Hotel Missoni Doha will add significant value to the existing urban aspect and contribute to the commitment and vision of Qatar by greatly supporting the transformation of Doha into one of the world’s leading business, sport, and cultural cities.” Guests at the new luxury hotel will enjoy a variety of dining concepts, as well as a pool bar, and a lobby lounge. Other amenities will include a 800m2 spa and fitness area, an outdoor swimming pool, and approximately 1,500m2 conference and banquet facilities, including a ballroom, and business centre.
Accommodation
Al Habtoor Group Reveals USD1.33 Billion Project Al Habtoor Group has announced one of the region’s biggest and most luxurious hotels and entertainment projects, set to be developed at a cost of AED4.875 billion (USD1.33 billion). Spanning 92,900m2, the complex will be built by Dubai’s prominent Sheikh Zayed Road, taking over the area on which the iconic 34-year old Metropolitan Hotel still stands and which is soon to be demolished. “Parting with the Metropolitan Hotel, our first hospitality venture, is not easy as it is filled with great memories, but I always believe in looking forward,” commented Khalaf Al Habtoor, chairman, Al Habtoor Group. “The tourism industry in the UAE and Dubai, in particular, is constantly and steadily growing, and we have to be prepared to cater for the growing need of its visitors and residents alike.” The development will comprise two tall classically elegant towers rising from an imposing grand five-storey podium, which will house three luxurious hotels featuring some 1,600 rooms and suites. Moreover, the hotels will include an upscale spa, multiple themed restaurants, 4,650m2 of banqueting and meeting facilities, a shopping arcade, and a unique 1,000seat theatre. Commenting on this costly yet highly promising development, Al Habtoor added, “An investment of this magnitude will encourage other likeminded businessmen to regain their faith and will definitely send a very strong message to the national and the international communities that will help stimulate foreign direct investments from institutions and individuals alike.
DoubleTree by Hilton to Open First Resort in UAE Hilton Worldwide has signed a management agreement with Mohamed Ruqait Real Estate, for the first DoubleTree by Hilton in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. Scheduled to open in 2014, the 309-key DoubleTree by Hilton, Ras Al Khaimah, will enjoy a prime location on the trunk of Marjan Island, said to be one of the first properties to open on the prestigious location, a cluster of five man-made islands in the upscale area of Al Hamra. Commenting on the new development, Rudi Jagersbacher, president, Hilton Worldwide, Middle East and Africa said, “Tourism is a vital sector of Ras Al Khaimah’s economy and with three Hilton Worldwide hotels already open and a further three in the pipeline, I am pleased we are playing a major part in firmly putting the emirate on the destination map.”
Rob Palleschi (left) and Mohamed Ahmed Ali Hassan Ruqait Al Ali
Besides 11 suites in the main building and 45 luxury chalets on the resort’s private beach, the hotel is also set to feature two pools, a kids club, health club and spa, as well as water sport facilities. Moreover, it will also boast two restaurants, a lobby lounge, and two bars.
28 JANUARY 2012
Air News
WEEKLY NEWS
7
Resuming Flights to Kuwait Bahrain Air recently resumed flights to Kuwait, operating four flights a week.
F
lights will depart from Bahrain at 08.35 and return in the evening, from Kuwait, at 18.55, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. These times are designed to provide convenience to passengers wishing to maximise their time in Kuwait or for business traffic requiring to return the same day. The airline’s flights will continue onwards from Kuwait to Beirut and from Beirut to Kuwait. Richard Nuttall, CEO, Bahrain Air, commented, “We are delighted to be returning to Kuwait. It is an important destination in its own right and at the same time will also support our network beyond Bahrain, with convenient connections especially to the Indian subcontinent and Khartoum. Fur-
Royal Jordanian Airlines Boosts Abu Dhabi Flights Royal Jordanian Airlines (RJ) has increased frequency on its Amman – Abu Dhabi route with the introduction of two more weekly services, in addition to the airline’s daily operation during the winter season. The increased frequency is set to further accommodate the fast growing demand for weekend and short travel visits between the two cities while providing greater flexibility for passengers. Ahmed Al Haddabi, chief operating officer, ADAC, added, “We are glad to see that our airline partners are keen to develop their services from the capital’s airport as it will offer more choices to our passengers and ultimately support ADAC’s strategy to become one of the leading airports in the world. Royal Jordanian Airlines is one of our close partners and we will continue to support their initiatives to provide customers with high quality and efficient travel solutions that cater to their needs and requirements.”
28 JANUARY 2012
Kuwait city
ther we will be adding non-stop flights between Kuwait and Beirut strengthening our presence and product in both markets.” According to Naeem Mahamoor, marketing manager, Bahrain Air, the aircraft will be refitted with a new business-class seat configuration and will introduce a state-of-the-art on-board entertainment system for business and premium class passengers. “Bahrain Air, being a hybrid airline, will add value to its business and premium class segments in making it attractive through price and service to the business community in the region, in picking us as their first choice and favourite airline,” Mahamoor concluded.
8
WEEKLY NEWS
Air News
Ryanair to Touch Ground in Paphos, Cyprus Ryanair has announced that in April it will open its 50th base in Paphos, its first ever in Cyprus, offering 14 routes, which will initially deliver over 600,000 passengers ever year with over 80 weekly flights. Michael Cawley, deputy chief executive, Ryanair, expressed his enthusiasm for the airline’s new hub on the island, and commented, “Cypriot consumers/visitors can now beat the recession by switching to Ryanair’s lowest
fares and our no fuel surcharge guaranteed to serve 14 exciting destinations all over Europe including Germany, Italy, and Sweden, among others.” Moreover Ryanair’s 600,000 passengers per annum will also sustain up to 600 jobs in Paphos, according to Cawley. From Paphos Airport, Ryanair flights will be available to: Chania; Frankfurt; Hahn; Kaunas; Krakow; London Stansted; Memmingen; Milan; Oslo; Patras; Pisa; Rome; Stockholm; Thessaloniki;
and Treviso. Alfred Van der Meer, CEO, Hermes Airport Group, commented on the airlines new hub, “This is a great vote of confidence in the potential of both the airport and our region from Europe's largest airline. This announcement will help create much needed jobs and tourism, and shows that Ryanair shares our confidence in the tremendous opportunity for strong market growth at the airport.”
Ryanair
Abu Dhabi Welcomes airberlin Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC), in cooperation with Etihad Airways, recently welcomed airberlin’s inaugural flight to Abu Dhabi International Airport. The airline will operate four weekly non-stop services between Berlin and Abu Dhabi, bringing the total number of weekly flights between the UAE capital and four German hubs to 29, with plans to increase to 42 services as of mid-April. The new route was launched following Etihad Airways’ strategic agreement with airberlin to increase its stake to 29.21 percent, making the UAE’s national airline airberlin’s biggest single stakeholder. James Hogan, CEO, Etihad Airways, commented, “The cooperation with airberlin will dramatically improve global connectivity for our guests in the GCC, Middle East, Germany, Switzerland, and Austria,” while Hartmut Mehdorn, CEO, airberlin, added, ”This route allows our customers to enjoy Abu Dhabi as a destination, and also increase the opportunity for German travellers to use this convenient and accessible gateway to Asia and Australia.”
Oman Air Celebrates Muscat – Zürich Service Oman Air celebrated the recent launch of the airline’s Muscat – Zurich service with a special event, which took place at the Park Hyatt Zürich, Switzerland. The gala, hosted by Oman Air, welcomed H.E. Khalil Al Khonji, chairman, Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who was joined by guests from the travel and tourism trade, media, and corporate partners, as well as representatives from the aviation industry. Wayne Pearce, CEO, Oman Air, remarked on the route’s success,“ The new service links Oman’s beautiful and timeless capital with what is one of the world’s great financial centres and an ideal gateway to the Alps for both winter and summer sports enthusiasts. The route is already proving extremely popular for visitors from Oman and beyond, as it is for visitors from Switzerland to Oman, who now find it easier than ever to experience the unparalleled hospitality, rich culture, and dramatic landscapes that are unique to the Sultanate.”
28 JANUARY 2012
10
WEEKLY NEWS
International
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts Expands in Brazil Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of Sheraton Reserva do Paiva Hotel and Convention Center; a new project in Pernambuco state in the northeast region of Brazil. Sheraton Reserva do Paiva Hotel and Convention Center will be the first five-star hotel in the region of Reserva do Paiva, and is slated to open in March 2014, featuring 289 rooms, including 21 junior suites, and seven deluxe suites. Moreover, guests will benefit from the hotel’s spa, restaurants, and a beach club boasting an infinity pool and a spacious lounge area, to name a few, while business guests will be offered a modern convention centre that will accommodate up to 2,100 people.
We are thrilled with the robust expansion of Starwood Hotels & Resorts in Latin America
Mauritus Home to New Hotel Angsana Hotels & Resorts, the sister brand of Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts, has announced the launch of Angsana Balaclava in Mauritius. Located directly on the beach, the property is just a 15-minute drive from the capital of Port Louis in the northwest area of the island, and resembles a traditional Mauritian village. The 51-key resort boasts spa suites, which offer a complimentary 90-minute massage, while the single Imperial Villa features four bedrooms, three private pools, and a personal butler. The resort also offers guests three overlapping swimming pools separated by waterfalls, a selection of restaurants and bars, as well as the option of in-villa private dining, in addition to a beauty salon, fitness facility, small business centre, and children’s activities.
Beachfront Suite
Located just 14.5km from the International Airport of Guarapes and the Suape Industrial Harbour Complex, it is set to be the largest and most well-equipped convention centre in Northeast Brazil. In addition, the meeting space will include two ballrooms, four function rooms, and other flexible meeting and exhibition areas. According to Hoyt Harper, global brand leader, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, the brand’s leadership position in the upper upscale hotel segment in Latin America highlights the success of its distinctive positioning in this fast-growing market. By the end of 2011, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts had expanded its footprint to 29 hotels in 10 Latin American countries, including four hotels in Brazil, strengthening Starwood Hotels & Resorts’ position in the region. Commenting on this addition, Osvaldo Librizzi, president, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Latin America, said, “We are thrilled with the robust expansion of Starwood Hotels & Resorts in Latin America and to be announcing the groundbreaking news for a new Sheraton hotel in Brazil. We continue to expand our presence in emerging markets with our nine distinctive brands, and as Brazilians pick up their pace of travel, they will look to stay with the brands they know and recognise. Additionally, with the focus on hotel development in preparation for the 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympics, Starwood looks to continue to expand its presence in Brazil, and build upon our 37 years in the country.”
Holiday Inn Express Expands Portfolio Following a USD1.5 million conversion from a Comfort Inn, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has unveiled the latest addition to its portfolio of hotels with the launch of Holiday Inn Express & Suites Phoenix Tempe University. The extensive renovation of the threestorey, 3,250m2 hotel, included a new exterior colour scheme and a refreshed interior urban design in all 72 guest rooms. Offering easy access to downtown, to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, as well as to a range of popular tourist attractions, the re-opened hotel is expected to become the smart choice for value-conscious business and leisure travellers, commented Gina LaBarre, vice president, brand management, the Americas, IHG. With its 24-hour business centre, fitness centre, and outdoor pool, the hotel offers an ideal base to both business people and holidaymakers.
28 JANUARY 2012
WHO'S MOVED
Hossam Kamal
Michel Koopman Michel Koopman has been appointed director of operations in the Middle East for Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, as well as general manager of Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara, Abu Dhabi. Koopman’s responsibilities include overseeing the operation of all of the company’s properties in the UAE, as well as spearheading the launch of the Eastern Man-
groves Hotel & Spa, which will be Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spa’s first city hotel in the Middle East upon opening this year. He joins the company from InterContinental Hotels Group where he worked as regional general manager for several of the group’s properties across China with additional responsibilities for the opening of a number of new hotels.
Hossam Kamal has been named chairman and CEO of Egyptair Holding Company. He takes on the position after more than 29 years with Egyptair, of which, in the last two years, he served as vice chairman. Kamal, who is known for offering excellent business solutions, was also a board member of the company where he played a substantial role in Egyptair’s expansion and business mod-
Manuel Santos Manuel Santos has been named food and beverage manager of Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi. Santos, who studied hotel management, completed his apprenticeship in Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide’s Luxury Collection hotel in Algarve. He has since then worked his way up in various food and beverage positions across the world, and gained
28 JANUARY 2012
experience in Portugal, the UK, Dubai, and the Bahamas. Having worked with a number of hotel companies, including Orient Express Hotels, Hyatt hotels and resorts, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and Jumeirah, Santos brings 14 years of experience with him. His goal is to continue delivering the best service and food in Abu Dhabi.
11
ernisation. He also chaired strategic committees adopting the quality improvement in all subsidiaries and coordinating with airports. He led Egyptair Investment Plan committee and headed the branding committee as well. He has earlier also worked as general manager of Flight Operations Training. Kamal holds a BSc in aviation and a diploma in administration management.
Michel Stalport Michel Stalport has been promoted to area vice president, Western Europe and North West Africa, at The Rezidor Hotel Group. In his new role, Stalport will head 35 managed and leased, and nine franchised hotels in Belgium, France, Italy, Luxemburg, Malta, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Mali, Morocco, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Tunisia. Prior to joining
the company, Stalport served Hilton International for more than a decade. During his 19 years with The Rezidor Hotel Group, Stalport has held a number of positions, including general manager roles in Brussels, Nice and Cannes, before taking on regional responsibility, at first for France and Tunisia, and subsequently for Eastern Europe and Russia.
12
TRAVEL TALK Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qassimi
travel talk is your space
Chairman, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority.
“The success of the Sharjah Water Festival is driven by our objective and desire to promote the emirate as a global destination for tourism, culture, commerce, education, and much more. The Sharjah Water Festival and other successful events held throughout the year also underscore the emirate’s ability to host and manage international events. As we enter a new phase of our promotional strategies, we believe that this fascinating emirate and tourism destination has a great future ahead.”
Munir Iskandrani General manager, Dollar Rent A Car, Jordan.
“We are increasing our fleet by 15 percent and upgraded to this year’s models with a higher number of the more popular SUVs, intermediates, and minivans. This year, we should see several factors contribute to the increase in Jordan’s tourism, including political stability, increased flights, and completed infrastructure projects. We are actively working together with governmental bodies and tourism companies our to provide the complete tourism experience.”
Helen Beck
Khaled Saab
Regional director, International representatives, EMEA, Royal Caribbean Cruises.
Regional general manager, Northern Emirates, Coral Hotels & Resorts.
“Winning not one, but three awards [at the World Travel Awards], is truly a testament to Royal Caribbean’s continued dedication to innovation. With a history of creativity and innovation, delivering many at-sea industry firsts, such as ice rinks, rock-climbing walls, zip lines, and Broadway shows, we are committed to providing an unforgettable and rejuvenating experience that appeals to vacationers of all ages.”
“We are pleased to welcome the staff of Tez Tours from Yekaterinburg [which was invited to visit the property and was familiarised with the various services and facilities offered by Al Bustan Centre & Residence]. I hope this familiarisation tour gave them first-hand experience of the extensive services and facilities we offer, thus helped them in promoting Al Bustan Centre & Residence to their customers. It is our pleasure to host their stay and look forward to more visitors from their country.”
TRAVEL TALK is your space – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel
28 JANUARY 2012
AGENT'S CORNER
AGENT'S INSIGHT NAME: Sonja Timani POSITION: Managing director COMPANY: World of Travel LOCATION: UAE (Ras Al Khaimah) WEBSITE: www.worldoftravel.ae Who are you? My name is Sonja Timani. I am the managing director of World of Travel. I started working in the tourism industry in 1992 in New Zealand, where I gained my experience in the incoming tourism business whilst working for an inbound travel agent. To add experience in the outbound field to my profile, I continued my career in Europe with a tour operator specialising in packages for golf players to destinations all over the world. After having visited plenty of international destinations, I saw the potential of developing the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah as a tourist destination, and started my own incoming agency in 2005. Ever since, I have been able to utilise all my acquired tourism expertise and contacts which I built up over the years and have thus succeeded to bring more than 50,000 tourists to this destination. Now, World of Travel is a key player in bringing tourists to UAE. What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? My favourite part of working in the travel industry is getting good feedback from our clients who enjoyed their holiday. When is the best time to visit Ras Al Khaimah? Ras Al Khaimah is a great place to visit all year round. Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday? For my next holiday I would like to visit Mongolia and ride a horse through the country. Why should people come to you for travel advice? Because we have a professional set-up and a long standing relationship with hotels and suppliers in the UAE. Furthermore, we have a passion for this destination and are dedicated to providing our customers with an unforgettable stay in the UAE.
28 JANUARY 2012
13
Amadeus and HRS team up Amadeus, a leading travel technology partner and transaction processor for the global travel and tourism industry, and Hotel Reservation Service (HRS), the worldwide leading hotel portal for corporate customers, has announced a strategic alliance to distribute HRS’s hotel content through Amadeus. This is a milestone in HRS’ strategy as it is the first time the hotel portal will make its content available through a global distribution system (GDS). Through this strategic partnership, Amadeus will seamlessly integrate HRS’ database of around 250,000 properties to its distribution system, including more than 50,000 independent hotels which have been distributed exclusively through HRS up to now.
This strategic agreement with Amadeus is a key milestone in our multichannel strategy to offer our hotel partners extended, integrated distribution reachable from a single source By seamlessly integrating HRS’s standardised hotel content to Amadeus’ newly re-engineered hotel search and reservation system, the two are responding to customers’ demands for efficient, access to the most relevant data. Tobias Ragge, CEO, HRS, com-
mented, “This strategic agreement with Amadeus is a key milestone in our multichannel strategy to offer our hotel partners extended, integrated distribution reachable from a single source. By distributing our content through the GDS channel for the first time, we will make our hotel partners bookable through more than 91,000 travel agencies and over 65,000 airline sales offices, which use the Amadeus system worldwide. “HRS’s integrated end-to-end solution, which connects independent properties directly with the GDS, helps to reduce our hotel partners’ distribution cost by 10 percent compared to competing solutions. At the same time, we respond to the demand from bookers worldwide to find our vast choice of independent hotels efficiently through Amadeus distribution solutions,” he added. “Our corporate customers will benefit from higher adoption rates when it comes to hotel bookings, as their travel agency partners now have also access to more extensive hotel content.” Amadeus has already started the integration of HRS’s content into its distribution system to make it as easy and efficient to book as any GDS content. By the second quarter of the year, corporations and travel agencies will have access to this content via both Amadeus e-Travel Management, and Amadeus Selling Platform, the point of sale solution used by Amadeus travel agents for traditional servicing. This will allow them to shop for hotels from different sources, GDS and HRS, quickly and easy from a single screen and with the highest level of mid- and back office integration.
14
TRAVEL CHANNELS
Brunei Joins Global Leaders for Tourism Campaign Brunei became the latest country to join the UNWTO/WTTC Global Leaders for Tourism Campaign after H. M. Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’Izzaddin Waddualah, sultan, Brunei, accepted an open letter.
A
ccording to Waddualah, tourism is of strategic importance for Brunei, which is based on two principal resources; the country’s pristine rainforest, and its spiritual and cultural heritage, therefore environmental protection and conservation must lie at the heart of any tourism development. “We will do our best to support tourism,” he added. Taleb Rifai, secretary general, UNWTO, who became the organisation’s first secretary general to visit Brunei, praised the country’s promotional strategy. “The strength of Brunei tourism lies in its uniqueness. In this way, Brunei is carving its own model of responsible tourism which will no doubt serve
as an example to the rest of the world. “By accepting the open letter, Brunei has become part of an increasingly important group of world leaders advocating for tourism as a means of economic growth and development including [countries in] Asia: China, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Republic of Korea.” David Scowsill, president, WTTC, added, “This [signing] underlines that the government truly understands the impact on job creation and the positive economic impact that travel and tourism brings to global GDP. Travel and tourism made a contribution of 5.8 percent of GDP in 2011 to the Brunei economy and supported 14,000 jobs; 6.9 percent of total employment.”
A MICE day in Berlin ITB Berlin, slated for March 7, will be including a one-day session to its programme entitled MICE Day; part of ITB Business Travel Days. This one-day event is set to offer MICE organisers a packed range of advanced training options with concrete solutions. Discussions will focus on the importance of clearly formulating communication objectives ahead of events, how emotive storytelling works, and what the legal pitfalls are.
Penguins Enter Mall of the Emirates Brandenburg Gate, Berlin
Snow Penguins at Ski Dubai
Snow penguins are to become part of the world’s first exciting attraction of its kind, and will go by the name ‘Snow Penguins at Ski Dubai’. Visitors will soon have the opportunity to interact with these birds in a one-of-a-kind intimate encounter as well as learn about their unique traits and habits. Mall of the Emirates’ visitors will also be able to enjoy viewing the snow penguins’ natural antics during the grand presentation of the ‘March of the Penguins’, starting in February. Part of a multi-generation breeding programme at Sea World, the lively snow penguins have been embraced into the Ski Dubai family and will live in a specially created environment, which mirrors the Antarctic.
Simon Woodward, senior research fellow, International Centre for Research in Events, Tourism and Hospitality, Leeds Metropolitan University, will present the findings of a survey entitled Corporate Social Responsibility in the Meetings and Hospitality Industry at the event. Holders of a trade visitor pass for ITB Berlin can attend lectures at MICE Day at no extra cost. Furthermore, special travel packages and other services are available to business travellers and MICE industry buyers attending the ITB Business Travel Days, including bus transfers, a trade visitor pass for admission to ITB Berlin, and accommodation.
28 JANUARY 2012
RENDEZVOUS
15
Q & A with David Thomson Since opening in 1981, it has continuously endeavoured itself to best cater to the family market, and was recently voted World’s Leading Family Resort at the World Travel Awards (WTA); a significant achievement, as David Thomson, general manager, Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa, tells Travel Trade Weekly .
Travel Trade Weekly: Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa has recently been named the ‘World’s Leading Family Resort’ at the WTA. To what do you attribute this success? David Thomson: It was a true honour to win this award as it so accurately reflects our goals and ambitions for Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa. We have made significant improvements at the resort over the last two years including a facelift of both the Jebel Ali Hotel and Palm Tree Court & Spa. As we have upgraded areas of the resort, we have done so in a family friendly manner, introducing facilities that set us apart from other properties. We understand that flexibility is key and we capitalise on this at Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa with a choice of two hotels, a variety of restaurants and all-inclusive dining options, as well as numerous land and water activities. Travel Trade Weekly: Based on your experience, what do families with children look for in a perfect holiday? What does Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa offer to satisfy these preferences? David Thomson: When families travel they look for ease, convenience, flexibility and entertainment options; qualities that I strongly believe we deliver at Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa. We offer families a private beach front location and are lucky enough to benefit from beautiful weather for the majority of the year. We offer all-inclusive dining packages, valid at all of the resort’s 15 bars and restaurants, which allow families to book and pay in advance, ensuring mealtimes are hassle free. We
28 JANUARY 2012
David Thomson General manager, Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa
Spa, we attract guests mainly from Germany, the UK, and CIS, and between the three main markets, we are busy all year round. Our local families join us on special occasions such as Eid and National Day when we offer additional family activities. Travel Trade Weekly: What plans do you have in place for this year?
have fantastically spacious rooms and suites which can accommodate up to two adults, two children, and an infant. We offer a varied entertainment programme with a daily Kids’ Club, as well as numerous land and water activities available for guests. Most importantly we have a ‘Kids Go Free’ Package which allows children up to the age of 12 to stay free on the same meal plan as their parents. Travel Trade Weekly: Where does the resort’s family market mainly stem from and which months are the most popular for this segment? David Thomson: I am delighted that the majority of our guests visit as a family and I believe that is mainly due to our fantastic ‘Kids Go Free’ package and spacious hotel rooms and suites. At Jebel Ali Golf Resort &
David Thomson: This year we are taking measures to further enhance our offering for families by upgrading our Kids’ Club, both in terms of facilities and furnishings. We need to keep up-to-date with technology whilst still placing emphasis on important development skills such as character building and team work. This year will also see the initiation of our teen club, which will allow teenagers the chance to explore the resort’s numerous facilities with their peers. Both clubs will be run by fully qualified staff who all have a vast amount of experience in child care and safety. Travel Trade Weekly: How do you think the resort, as well as the overall hospitality sector in the UAE, will perform? David Thomson: I believe that this year is going to be another positive year as the economy starts to climb again. 2011 was a successful year for Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa and we expect to increase on profits, over-achieve on expectations, and build on our strengths going forward. The UAE is a very strong tourist market and as we come out of the recession, flight patterns increase and competition greatens; I am sure the UAE hospitality sector will deliver a healthy performance once again.
16
NEWS & EVENTS
WOW Istanbul Hotels & Convention Centre Boosts Meeting Capacity WOW Istanbul Hotels & Convention Centre, member of Great Hotels of the World, is to embark on a USD20 million investment project to become the largest hotel with meeting capacity in the Turkish city. WOW Istanbul Hotels & Convention Centre comprises the four-star WOW Airport Hotel, the five-star WOW Istanbul Hotel, and the WOW Convention Centre. Starting in February, the WOW Convention Centre will add 21 new meeting rooms to its offering, boasting 8,500m2 of meeting space to with a seating capacity of 6,500. The facility will house a conference room encompassing a total area of 1,200m2, with 7m high ceilings and a capacity of 1,000 people. Other meeting rooms within WOW Istanbul Hotels & Convention Centre the complex will vary in
size from 70m2 to 225m2, and the project will also see the introduction of a VIP lounge with a relaxation area as well as business and meeting rooms. “Istanbul has reached seventh place in convention tourism in the world,” Ziya Cihan, general director, WOW Istanbul Hotels & Convention Centre, pointed out, who further added, “Keeping this growth and an everincreasing demand for meetings in mind, we decided on our new construction investment. Incorporating 34 rooms, this new USD20 million project will contribute to the vicinity and increase the available meeting capacity in Istanbul. With 635 rooms and a 1,270 bed capacity, our convention centre has the biggest accommodation capacity in Istanbul. More importantly, we are able to use these three buildings either separately or as a single facility. Our experienced team and special gift concepts, combined with this physical structure, enable us to make a difference for all types of events, whether they be conferences, meetings, or accommodations.”
EVENTS Travel Technology Europe London, UK, February 7 – 8, 2012 (www.traveltechnologyshow.com) Europe’s leading annual travel technology event that connects the travel industry with market-leading technology solution providers.
ITB Berlin Berlin, Germany, March 7 – 11, 2012 (www.itb-berlin.de) The world’s leading travel trade show. A platform for trade visitors to have the opportunity to meet business partners and to do business.
EMITT Istanbul, Turkey, February 9 – 12, 2012 (www.emittistanbul.com) Organised by I. T. E. Travel Division taps into the emerging trends of the travel sector attended by around 52,800 tourism professionals.
MITT Moscow, Russia, March 21 – 24, 2012 (www.mitt.ru) Russia’s leading travel exhibition, with over 3,000 participating companies and 185 destinations, this is the key meeting and networking place for the industry
SATTE New Delhi, India, February 10 – 12, 2012 (www.satte.in) India’s leading business-to-business travel and tourism event with more than 6,000 travel agents and tour operators from all over India and its neighbouring markets.
GIBTM Abu Dhabi, UAE, March 26 – 28, 2012 (www.gibtm.com) The leading event for business travel in the GCC region, unlocking business potential within the Middle East for all professionals.
28 JANUARY 2012