The
Corporate Traveller
autumn 2010 no. 38
2010 - The year of the Airline Alliances
The future of travel The Travel Gold Rush 2020 “ Our company travel policy is to use low cost airlines whenever we can ” Paul Richter, Frequent Traveller
Brussels Airlines strengthens African ties
Antwerp Worth getting to know better THE
The Corporate Traveller 2010 Airline Awards
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THE CORPORATE TRAVELLER THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR THE CORPORATE TRAVELLER IN THE BENELUX
CIRCULATION 26.000
Industry News
031 TAROM Airlines joins Skyteam TAROM Romanian Air Transport officially joined the
DIFFUSION Belgium, France, Luxemburg and The Netherlands
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007 The Journal News from the travel industry
Travel Management 017 “Our company travel policy is to use low cost airlines whenever we can”
Joanna Pays, Angela Antrobus, Jeroen Coteur, Jacques Legros
ART DIRECTOR Bert Wagemans
SUBSCRIPTIONS
outside of Benelux and France are in addition to this price. Student subscriptions cost € 45 per year (including VAT). A student card is
policies are changing. This month we caught up with frequent flyer Paul Richter, who is based in Paris.
Cotonou, Ouagadougou and Lome. Geert Sciot
2020, outlines how the travel sector can better ride
revealed that it is to begin operating a regional
the global economic rollercoaster and secure future
African airline by the beginning of 2011.
growth and profitability. The study provides new thinking and innovative scenarios to support the future of travel.
Employers are more often seeing travel by train
year, and are automatically renewed until revocation. Revocation of
HILDE DE RIDDER – E-mail: Traffic.leo@telenet.be
038 LOT connects Brussels with the East After Yerevan (Armenia) and Tbilisi (Georgia), LOT
023 The train as feasible alternative
Vanhee of Rail1 and Olivier Smeets of Amadeus.
TRAFFIC
with the recent addition of four new links to Accra,
A major new industry report, The Travel Gold Rush
Corporate Traveller got together with Brecht
Tel: 0032 486 13 13 13 – E-mail: edr@eventbox.be
035 Brussels Airlines strengthens African ties Brussels Airlines has enlarged its African network
020 The future of travel
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Corporate Traveller Airline Awards. Over a period
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The results have arrived for the second annual
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032 The Corporate Traveller 2010 Airline Awards
Traveller, we interview executives about their views
Subscriptions to The Corporate Traveller cost € 75 per year (excluding VAT). Costs of delivery to destinations
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Jean Paul Talbot – E-mail: jp@eventbox.be
EDITORIAL TEAM
SkyTeam global airline alliance at a ceremony held
Airways 027 The year of the Airline Alliances Over 70% of scheduled airlines are now affiliated to
Polish Airways continues its eastward expansion with several new routes out of Warsaw.
039 Kiev in three hours On 27 September, Ukraine International Airlines (UIA) resumed direct flights between Brussels and Kiev after a three-month hiatus.
040 Lisbon, the gateway to Brazil and Africa
an alliance. We questioned airline associations on
In addition to its many domestic destinations, TAP
some of the latest movements and what they mean
Portugal today represents a primary gateway to
for their strategies.
Africa and Brazil.
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4 | CORPORATE TRAVELLER.NET
autumn 2010 |
020
027
041 SAS Credits fill a market niche SAS Group Airlines are targeting the countless smaller businesses that only fly occasionally but still
035
want to take advantage of “loyalty privileges.” SAS Credits fulfil this desire.
Destinations 042 A Second Home in Portugal Immo Portugal specialises in real estate opportunities on the Portuguese Costa de Prata, but also knows its way around Algarve as well as the larger Portuguese cities.
043
043 Lisbon – a traveller’s guide
061
Voted Best European City Break in the 2010 World Travel Awards, Lisbon is brimming with attractions for both business travellers and tourists.
renaissance, leading centre for the arts, and fun destination for shopping and gastronomy.
046 Ljubljana Ljubljana is a small, but stylish city of music, history and gastronomy, offering a blend of old charm and new cool.
056 Antwerp - “To Better Emphasise our Strong Points” Six MICE industry players gathered in Antwerp City Hall for a lively discussion about the strong and not-
048 Conventa 2011 Conventa will open the doors of its third edition at Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre on
so-strong points of Antwerp as a MICE destination.
Railways
January 19 2011.
049 Adria Airways
061 Why Fly? With opening of the final high speed rail segments
Adria Airways now offers more than twenty direct
bringing Paris, Cologne and Amsterdam all within
routes to commercial capitals throughout Europe
less than two hours of Brussels, you no longer have
from its hub in Ljubljana.
any reason to take the plane instead of Thalys to reach these destinations.
046
050 Quebec: a symphony of seasons and emotions
Lifestyle
Quebec offers just as many different faces to corporate travellers and congress delegates - an effervescent spring, an exalting summer, a spectacular autumn and an amazing winter.
062 Engineered for Improved Audio Performance and Stability Bose has introduced three new in-ear products: the IE2 audio headphones for listening on-the-go, and
051 Air Canada Since June, Air Canada has been operating a non-
the MIE2 and MIE2i mobile headsets, designed specifically for music-enabled mobile phones.
stop connection between Brussels and Montreal.
052 Antwerp – Worth getting to know better
069
064 Sennheiser offers a range of compatible headsets for the new iPhone 4
Antwerp, the largest city in Flanders, is known
Sennheiser has announced the compatibility of
as the business capital of the Low Countries.
its Mobile Music headsets, Smart Remote Control
But Antwerp is also the European cradle of the
headsets, and Sports headsets with the new iPhone 4.
| CORPORATE TRAVELLER.NET
autumn 2010 | 5
The Traveller Journal News from the travel industry
EU and DOT give green Light for BA, American and Iberia Alliance British Airways, American Airlines and Iberia have received the regulatory green light to operate a joint business on transatlantic flights. Following European Union approval on July 14, the airlines have now been granted anti-trust immunity from the US Department of Transportation. Willie Walsh, British Airways chief executive, said “This final approval is fantastic news for all three airlines and the oneworld alliance. We’ve waited 14 years to bring the benefits of the transatlantic joint business to our customers and level the playing field with the other two global alliances. As we have argued all along, the EU-US market is highly competitive and Heathrow’s liberalisation in 2008 opened it up even further. We are delighted that the US and EU authorities have recognised this. We’re pleased that the DOT and EU have worked together to ensure that there is consistency in the number of slots that the three airlines have to give up for our competitors to use on services from Heathrow to the US.” The airlines plan to launch the transatlantic joint business this autumn and will cooperate commercially on flights between the EU, Switzerland and Norway and the US, Canada and Mexico. Customers will be able to travel more easily on all three airlines’ combined route network that will serve 433 destinations in 105 countries with 5,178 daily departures, providing more frequent and convenient schedule options than any of the three carriers could offer individually. By working together, the airlines will expand customer choice by supporting routes that would not be economically viable for a single airline. Fellow oneworld members Finnair and Royal Jordanian have also received antitrust immunity from the US Department of Transportation.
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi Airport new Terminal to add capacity for 34 million passengers The opening, in July, of a massive new terminal at New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, is expected First A380 at Delhi to raise the Airport’s Terminal 3 airport’s capacity by 34 million passengers a year. The new Terminal 3 is a nine-level building featuring
78 passenger boarding bridges, including some compatible with wide-body jets such as the A380. The terminal building comprises a range of world class features and facilities designed to provide enhanced passenger comfort and convenience, including almost 20,000 square metres of retail space. Terminal 3 can handle 12,800 bags in a single hour thanks to a totally automated baggage handling system comprising over 6,400 metres of conveyor belts.
Air France pursues growth strategy in Africa
Routes
Entebbe), by KLM. Next summer three more destinations will be added, with Freetown in Sierra Leone, Monrovia in Liberia and Tripoli in Libya. The Freetown and Monrovia flights will be operated by Air France. Tripoli will be served by Air France with five flights a week, as well as daily flights operated by KLM. Air France KLM frequencies on existing routes to Pointe Noire, Libreville, Malabo, Dar Es Salaam, and Kilimandjaro are all to be increased. KLM is also to augment flights to Abuja/Kano to four times weekly, and Entebbe/ Kigali to six times weekly.
Subject to obtaining traffic rights, the first two of the new African routes will commence at the end of the year. Bata, in Equatorial Guinea, will be served by Air France and Kigali, in Rwanda (via
With the addition of Air FranceKLM’s partner agreements there are even more destinations and frequencies, with Bujumbura, Dzaoudzi, Kisumu, Lilongwe, Lusaka, Mombasa and Moroni
Established in Africa for nearly 75 years, Air France is continuing to increase its capacity to the continent. In cooperation with KLM and its African partners, Air France is enlarging its network with more destinations, frequencies and direct flights to and from its Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam-Schiphol hubs. This winter seat capacity will increase by over 4% and five new African destinations are expected to be launched by summer 2011.
offered by Kenya Airways from its Nairobi hub, and SouthAfrican cities with Comair out of Amsterdam, via Johannesburg. Services Air France is operating the most modern aircraft in its long-haul fleet on its routes to Africa and was the first airline to fly the Airbus A380 to Africa, when it introduced the aircraft on its Paris-Johannesburg flights. The airline is continuing to implement its new Premium Voyageur class on flights to the African continent and it will soon be available on 95% of African routes served by wide-bodied aircraft. Premium Voyageur class offers passengers a private cabin with 40% extra space, and a 48-cm wide, fixedshell seat that reclines to 123°.
| CORPORATE TRAVELLER.NET
autumn 2010 | 7
The Traveller Journal News from the travel industry
Dreamliner makes international debut at Farnborough International Airshow The Boeing 787 Dreamliner made its international debut on July 18 during the Farnborough International Airshow. As evidence of the market’s continuing recovery, airline and leasing company customers used the show to announce orders for more than 250 Boeing aircraft. “We chose Farnborough as a venue for spotlighting the breakthrough capabilities and innovations of both our commercial airplanes and our defence, space, and security businesses” said Tom Downey, senior vice president, Boeing Communications. Throughout the airshow more than 2,000 customers, partners, government officials and media had the opportunity to tour the 787 flight-test plane ZA003 before its spectacular departure escorted by two vintage Spitfire fighters.
Lufthansa to start daily flights between Luxembourg and Munich With the beginning of the winter timetable, Lufthansa is extending its network out of the Benelux region. As of 31st October, passengers departing from Luxembourg will be offered up to two daily flights to Lufthansa’s Southern hub of Munich. A modern Bombardier Regional Jet CRJ-700 of Lufthansa CityLine will be operating the new route, offering up to 70 seats in Economy and Business Class. Lufthansa is thus complementing the offer of its partner Luxair which connects up to three times a day Luxembourg with Munich. Passengers will have the choice between 31 weekly flights between the two cities.
ACTE appoints Susan Shaid as United States Regional Chair The Board of Directors for the Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE) have unanimously appointed Susan Shaid, Global Director, Business Travel Sales, Omni Hotels & Resorts, as ACTE Regional Chair, United States. A 25-year industry veteran, Shaid will assure that regional ACTE activities throughout the United States are aligned with the Association’s global mission and vision.
8 | CORPORATE TRAVELLER.NET
autumn 2010 |
Emirates Announce Order for further 30 Boeing 777-300ERs During the 2010 Farnborough International Airshow, Emirates announced an order for 30 Boeing 777-300ERs aircraft. Emirates is already the world’s largest 777 operator with currently a fleet of eighty-six 777s through direct purchase and lease. “Since we took delivery of our first 777 fourteen years ago, the airplane’s reliability, performance and operating economics have firmly established it as the backbone of our fleet,” said His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive,
Emirates Airline and Group. “Our decision to further expand our 777 fleet reflects our plans to continue to build our fleet of the future and grow our expansive global network, which already spans six continents. It also demonstrates our commitment to operating a modern fleet that not only enhances the passenger experience but our operational efficiency as well.”
Meet and Treat ACTE’s Susan Shaid
In her position with Omni Hotels & Resorts, Shaid is responsible for negotiations with the world’s largest corporate travel buyers, as well as providing them with effective methods for managing their hotel expenses. She has held a similar position with Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, beginning her career in business travel sales for several of New York City’s landmark hotels, including The Plaza and Four Seasons.
Radisson Blu Astrid opposite the Central Station is the place-to-be for events and congresses, with 18 flexible function rooms, an original and personal service and Aquatopia, an enchanting oceanarium showcasing over 10.000 exotic fish and reptiles. In short, tons of possibilities to organize an unforgettable meeting or the ultimate event of your dreams! Call us on +32 (0)3 203 12 20 and discover your personal opportunities in the biggest conference hotel of Antwerp! Radisson Blu Astrid Hotel, Antwerp Koningin Astridplein 7, 2018 Antwerp, Belgium info.astrid.antwerp@radissonblu.com
+32 3 203 12 34 radissonblu.com/astridhotel-antwerp
A S T R I D H OT E L, ANTWERP
The Traveller Journal News from the travel industry
Air Berlin to join oneworld group member Austria’s NIKI will become an affiliate member of the alliance.
Air Berlin, Europe’s fifth largest airline and Germany’s second biggest carrier, is to join the oneworld alliance. A memorandum of understanding between Air Berlin and oneworld was completed in the airline’s Berlin home city on 26 July, with a formal alliance membership agreement to be signed soon. Air Berlin
Air France-KLM appoints Yu-Ming Sie as Commercial Manager Benelux
Air Berlin is expected to start flying as part of oneworld in early 2012 - just weeks before the opening of the new Berlin Brandenburg International Airport, which is being built as a major new hub for Europe. As a starting point in its oneworld implementation, Air Berlin will develop one-on-one co-operative agreements with key established members of the alliance American Airlines and Finnair, to take effect this coming winter season. Bilateral agreements with British Airways and Iberia are planned to follow.
British Airways to begin flying from London City to Copenhagen
Air France-KLM has appointed Yu-Ming Sie as Commercial Manager for Belgium and Luxemburg. Yu-Ming Sie’s predecessor in the role, Guy Gijsbrechts, has been appointed Sales Manager Belgium and Luxemburg. Guy is replacing Olaf Stokman, who in turn is to take up a new position of Sales Manager for Regional Establishment Gulf countries, based in Dubaï.
British Airways has announced plans to start a new double daily weekday service from the Docklands Airport with flights to Copenhagen in Denmark, providing a direct air link between the two capital cities.
Yu-Ming Sie joined KLM in 2000. He worked in several positions within the cargo, corporate, pricing and revenue management divisions. Since 2007 he has been responsible for the Central and South Europe area as Senior Inventory Analyst. He is 34 years old and has a Degree in Marketing and International Management from the Amsterdam School of Business.
There will also be one flight a day from London City on Sundays and one flight from Copenhagen on Saturdays as the airline opens up its route network from London City Airport with the launch of its first route to Scandinavia.
Yu-Ming Sie and Guy Gijsbrechts will both report to Vincent Coste, General Manager Air France-KLM Belgium and Luxemburg. Together, they will focus on the development of Air France and KLM’s market shares as leading airlines on the Belgium and Luxemburg markets.
The new flights commenced on September 12 and is operated by British Airways wholly-owned subsidiary BA CityFlyer with their fleet of brand new Embraer 190 aircraft.
Middle East Airlines to continue Brussels-Beirut flights all year round Lebanese carrier Middle East Airlines is to continue its direct services between Brussels Airport and Beirut during the coming winter season. The airline restarted direct evening flights to and from Brussels Airport three times weekly on June 22nd. At first, these flights were scheduled to continue until the middle of September, but this summer schedule is now prolonged to a year-round operation.
As from the middle of September, the current evening operation will be replaced by a morning flight, operated three times per week by Middle East Airlines. At Brussels Airport, this new schedule allows excellent transfer connections to and from North America and a wide choice of destinations in Europe and Africa that are offered by Brussels Airlines.
Latest IATA statistics show continued recovery in June The International Air Transport Association (IATA) traffic statistics for June show continued strong demand growth as the industry recovers from the impact of the global financial crisis. Compared to June 2009, international passenger demand was up 11.9%. Capacity increased only slightly above demand improvements during the month, keeping load factors in line with historical highs at 79.8% for passenger traffic. “The industry continues to recover faster than expected, but with sharp regional differences. Europe is recovering at half the speed of Asia with passenger growth of 7.8% compared to the 15.5% growth in Asia-Pacific” said Giovanni Bisignani, IATA’s Director General and CEO. Outside of Europe, all regions reported double-digit growth in passenger traffic. “The question is how long can the industry maintain the doubledigit momentum. Business confidence remains high and there is no indication that the recovery will stall
Giovanni Bisignani any time soon. But, with government stimulus packages tailing off and restocking largely completed, we do expect some slowing over the months ahead” warned Bisignani. “We remain cautiously optimistic. A clear indication of the growing confidence is the over 400 aircraft orders announced at the Farnborough Air Show. This is good news that will bring environmental benefits through improved fuel efficiency. But it will also make the challenge of matching capacity to demand much more difficult” said Bisignani
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autumn 2010 | 9
, A new cabin between Business and Economy, on long-haul flights, offering more space at an attractive price, with a shell seat, a laptop outlet, a large tray table and a comfortable leg rest
.
w w w.airfrance.be
The Traveller Journal News from the travel industry
Be Smart. Be Hip. Be Seen. - ACTE’s spring conference in New York ACTE’s educational team, in coordination with the conference planning committee, will focus a great deal of their work on creating highly interactive sessions that will include several new and provocative discussion and learning programs. The Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE) has announced New York City as the site of its spring Global Educational Conference, to be held April 10 -12, 2011. The theme of the conference will be ‘Be Smart. Be Hip. Be Seen’ and the Marriott Marquis Times Square will be the host venue. “We have been evaluating a number of cities for our spring conference but New York has everything” said ACTE’s Executive Director Ron DiLeo. “It is one of the world’s foremost international cities and many of our members and conference attendees who come from around the world also have offices in or near the city that they can visit as part of their trip to our conference. And you can fly to New York directly from more places around the world than just about anywhere. It is a logical choice for a major, global industry meeting designed to cut travel time, and time away from the office.”
“Be Smart. Be Hip. Be Seen. is more than a theme for our spring conference” said DiLeo. “It is our battle cry to the industry to drive change and innovation. The time has come to breath the life back into the business travel management profession with new approaches, new strategies, and new information. ACTE’s attitude about everything going forward and into the 2011 educational calendar is, Be smart (educated and informed), be hip (progressive thinking and in-the-know), and be seen (network and grow). Our industry needs new material and ACTE is going to lead that charge. I cannot think of better place to kick off that level of thought leadership next year than New York, one of the world’s premier business and financial centres and a place where people make things happen.” Additional information about the ACTE Global Education Conference in New York will be posted on www. acte.org as it becomes available.
LOT Polish airways adds more routes from Brussels LOT Polish airways is expanding its schedule from Brussels with additional flights to Warsaw and connecting flights to Tbilisi and Hanoi. In September LOT commenced flights from Warsaw to the Georgian capital of Tbilisi with connecting flights from Brussels to Warsaw five times
a week. As from 2 November LOT will offer a fourth daily flight from Brussels to Warsaw, operating on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. On 13 November the airline will commence flights between Warsaw and Hanoi. The service will also include connecting flights between Brussels and Warsaw.
Air Arabia flies from Brussels Airport as from winter season The Moroccan low cost operator Air Arabia is to move its Belgian base from Charleroi to Brussels Airport, as from the new winter season. Starting the end of October, the airline will fly from Brussels Airport to Casablanca three times weekly. On Tuesdays and Saturdays these flights will make a stop in Fez, a new destination for Brussels Airport. On Tuesdays the flight will make a stop in Oujda. Air Arabia operates Airbus A320 aircraft in a full economy configuration. Their low cost product puts an emphasis on passenger comfort with extra legroom and a 20kg baggage allowance included in the flight fare. Meals and drinks can be purchased during flights, but soon it will be possible to make meals reservations and payment through the internet.
China Airlines Joins SkyTeam China Airlines, the flag carrier of Taiwan, has formally announced the start of its joining process leading to full entry into the SkyTeam Airline Alliance. The process is expected to be completed by mid-2011. The announcement comes just a few months after China Eastern signed an agreement to join SkyTeam. The addition of China Airlines to the alliance will bring four new destinations to the network Okinawa, Miyazaki, Surabaya and Palau. Headquartered in Taipei, China Airlines is the largest airline of Taiwan, home to one of the world’s most dynamic technology-driven economies that also possesses abundant tourism opportunities and booming aviation industry prospects. During an official ceremony in Taipei, China Airlines’ President HuangHsiang Sun, joined the CEOs and representatives of SkyTeam member airlines in signing an Adherence Agreement, thus formally starting the process of China Airlines joining
SkyTeam. “The inclusion of China Airlines in our network will solidify SkyTeam’s unrivalled presence in the Greater China market, a region that continues to experience significant economic growth,” said Leo van Wijk, Chairman of the SkyTeam Governing Board. “In addition to the services provided by our existing members, China Airlines offers an extensive cross-strait operation, linking Taiwan to multiple major destinations in China. Also, Taipei will serve as an alternative Asian hub with services to and from key business destinations in the region.” The China Airlines network will complement those of Guangzhoubased China Southern and Shanghaibased China Eastern. Cooperation between these three SkyTeam family members will further consolidate SkyTeam’s unparalleled strong position in Greater China. As the largest passenger and cargo airline providing services between both sides of the Taiwan Strait, the addition of China Airlines to SkyTeam will mark a major milestone in Taiwan’s efforts to become one of Asia’s leading air transport and business hubs.
| CORPORATE TRAVELLER.NET
autumn 2010 | 11
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The Traveller Journal News from the travel industry
ESTA Authorisation for US travel will cost 14 dollars The US authorities have introduced a set charge of 14 dollars for passengers travelling to the US with ESTA authorisation (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation). The ESTA system is compulsory for travellers from countries included in the US visa waiver program.
Ritz-Carlton Brussels Airport shows strong appoints new growth on international president routes in July and CEO Ritz-Carlton has appointed Herve Humler as president and chief operations officer. Humler will report to Robert J. McCarthy, Marriott International Group President.
Herve Humler ESTA authorisation, which was previously free of charge, will cost a set sum of 14 USD and can only be paid for by credit card. The US authorities will forbid travel for any passenger who has not paid this sum. The official website for submitting an ESTA request is https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov and travellers should ensure they have entered their exact passport number and the country which issued the passport. Further information can be found at airfrance. com (“preparing your trip/safety measures” section) or through travel agents.
Humler, one of the original founders of The Ritz-Carlton in 1983, will be responsible for leading the brand’s operations and global growth strategy. He will also oversee Bulgari Hotels & Resorts and a total of 76 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean, as well as the opening of more than 30 new hotel and residential projects currently underway.
In July Brussels Airport handled 1.9 million passengers, a rise of 2% on the same month last year.
According to a statement issued by the airport, growth is undeniably recovering but originating passenger numbers are still under pressure from competing airports. Transfer and long haul traffic recorded substantial growth (20%). In the intra-European segment business traffic in particular is back to full speed.
SAS is world’s most punctual airline Scandinavian Airlines became the world’s most punctual airline in August, with nearly 93% of its 15,607 flights arriving on time, according to analysts FlightStats Analytics. The FlightStats’ figures are based on its tracking of the punctuality of over 150,000 flights per day by both regional and ‘major’ airlines.
LAN and Singapore Airlines Commits To Rainforest Preservation TAM to merge LAN Airlines and TAM have entered into a nonbinding Memorandum of Understanding that outlines their intention to combine their holdings under a single parent entity. The merger would create a new Latin American airline known as LATAM Airlines Group.
Singapore Airlines is donating US$3 million in its first major involvement in a large-scale green project with long-term, sustainable benefits for the global environment.
Funds donated by the airline will go towards supporting the Harapan Rainforest Initiative, a unique collaboration between international non-governmental organisations
including BirdLife International and Burung Indonesia (BirdLife Partner in Indonesia). Straddling Indonesia’s Jambi and South Sumatra provinces, Harapan Rainforest spans almost 100,000 hectares – an area one-and-a-half times the size of Singapore. The forest concession for Harapan was recently licensed to the BirdLife consortium by the Indonesian Government under a new regulation that allows forests, initially slated for felling or plantations, to be managed for longterm conservation and restoration.
July saw the announcement of a number of new routes for Brussels Airport. Air Arabia is moving its operations to Fez, Oujda and Casablanca from Charleroi to Brussels Airport. Ukraine International reopens its route to Kiev this month and starting this winter Brussels Airlines operates an extra flight to Nairobi and Kigali their fourth weekly flights to these destinations and their 31st weekly African flights.
NBTA 2010 Convention reports ‘business travel is coming back’ The 2010 National Business Travel Association (NBTA) International Convention & Exhibition, which took place in August, reported increased attendance over last year. More than 5,800 corporate travel professionals from 40 countries, including more than 1,200 travel buyers, filled Houston’s George R. Brown Convention Center to attend over 65 educational sessions and visit with more than 400 exhibitors on the Expo floor. Keynote speakers at the event included Condoleeza Rice, Richard Branson and Lance Armstrong. “The general consensus at this year’s Convention was clear – business travel is coming back!” said NBTA President & CEO Craig Banikowski. “Many attendees reported increasing levels of travel, and they came to the NBTA Convention to learn about the latest industry trends in a new economy and network with the largest gathering of corporate travel professionals in the world. Corporate travel drives economic success, and when travel professionals are making connections and making deals, it’s a sure sign we’re on the way to recovery.”
| CORPORATE TRAVELLER.NET
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The Traveller Journal News from the travel industry
THAI and Tiger Airways to launch low cost airline “Thai Tiger” Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) and Tiger Airways Holdings Limited have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to form a new low fare airline called Thai Tiger Airways Private Limited. The new airline will operate the same low fares and business model as the other airlines in the Tiger Airways Group, and is expected to commence operations in the first quarter of 2011, pending regulatory approval. Based in Bangkok, Thai Tiger will operate international and domestic flights out of Suvarnabhumi International Airport. It will offer short-haul, point-to-point services within a five hour flying radius. The route network and further information on the corporate structure will be announced in due course.
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Major expansions at JFK’s Terminal 4, new Delta Airlines hub The international Terminal 4 at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York is to be expanded substantially with an investment amounting to 1.2 billion dollars. Construction work will begin later this year, with the first phase of the expansion project to be completed in 2013. The terminal will subsequently become a hub of Delta Airlines. Situated at John F. Kennedy International Airport, Terminal 4 is one of North America’s largest air terminals, serving nearly 40 international and domestic carriers with an annual passenger volume of more than 9.5 million travellers. The expansion, which was detailed in a press conference
by New York’s Mayor Bloomberg on August 11, will include nine new international gates, additional baggage space and customs and border-security facilities. JFK international airport is owned by Schiphol USA (SUSA), a subsidiary of the Amsterdambased airport operator and aviation management consultant Schiphol Group Company. “More than 10 years ago Schiphol was invited to apply its expertise in airport infrastructure to the construction of a new terminal at JFK airport” said Schiphol Group’s Pieter Verboom. “This
construction project was one of the largest public-private projects in the United States and it was the first time that a foreign airport was involved in the building and running of a terminal in this country. This investment of Delta Airlines in Terminal 4 to expand its hub activities in New York clearly reflects her confidence in the success of this terminal”.
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14 | CORPORATE TRAVELLER.NET
autumn 2010 |
The Traveller Journal News from the travel industry
Jet Airways wins Global Traveller Airline Wine Award
Jet Airways has been adjudged the ‘Best Airline –in the Champagne/Sparkling Wine’ category of the Global Traveller’s 6th Annual Wines on the Wings International Business Class Airline Wine competition. Jet Airways won the ‘Best Airline Champagne/ Sparkling Wine’ for its Lanson Noble Cuvee Brut Millesime 1999.
Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company launches loyalty program The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has introduced a frequent guest stay program – The RitzCarlton Rewards. Creation of The Ritz-Carlton Rewards is based on strong customer feedback and demand for a world-class loyalty program that goes beyond providing complimentary stays and airline flights. The Ritz-Carlton Rewards’
partners offer unique access available only to members, including Abercrombie & Kent members-only tours and fourday photography workshops with National Geographic’s renowned photographers. Members will also be able to redeem points for flights on 30 of the world’s major airlines and luxury cruise lines, including Crystal Cruises, The Yachts of Seabourn and Silversea.
European Low Fare Airline figures show strong passenger growth Latest figures from the European Low Fares Airline Association (ELFAA) demonstrate how the sector is bucking the trend when it comes to growth in the airline industry. For the 12 month
period from July 2009 to June 2010, ELFAA members recorded a year-on-year growth in passenger numbers of 12%, carrying a total of 167 million passengers around Europe.
Finnair and Air Berlin to cooperate on Europe-Asia traffic Finnair and Air Berlin will begin a codeshare agreement in November. Under the agreement, the companies plan to cooperate commercially on
traffic between Germany and Finland, and later on Finnair’s Asian traffic. The companies also plan to partner in terms of their frequent-flyer programmes.
Virgin Blue Group announces major new partnership with Etihad Virgin Blue and Etihad Airways have signed an agreement establishing a commercial partnership that will enable Virgin Blue’s international arm, V Australia, to launch direct services to Abu Dhabi in 2011. The two airlines will offer a joint network of more than 100 destinations from October 1 this year. Together, Etihad and V Australia will move towards a total of 27 weekly services between Abu Dhabi and Australia, including doubledaily services between Abu Dhabi and Sydney, daily Melbourne-Abu Dhabi flights and six frequencies per week between Abu Dhabi and Brisbane. V Australia will operate three Sydney-Abu Dhabi services per week from
February 2011 and three Brisbane-Abu Dhabi services per week by February 2012, thus becoming the first Australian carrier to operate to the Middle East since 1991. From October, Virgin Blue Group customers can access Etihad’s network of 65 destinations across North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Indian Subcontinent. All Virgin Blue services will be available to Etihad customers, opening up 44 destinations in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, and to Asia and Los Angeles. The agreement integrates the Etihad Guest and Velocity frequent flyer programs, allowing members
to earn status and frequent flyer points immediately along with reciprocal service benefits and lounge access for top tier members of both programs. The ability for members to burn miles on both carriers’ services comes into effect from October 1. Under the agreement, the two airlines will explore further avenues of cooperation, and will lodge an application for authorisation with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to allow them to cooperate across a broad range of commercial functions. It is only with this further cooperation that the airlines will be able to offer the full program of benefits the partnership will bring.
EU Commission updates banned operators, adds Ghanaian airlines The European Commission has updated the list of airlines banned in the European Union to impose an operating ban on one air carrier from Ghana and to place operating restrictions on a second air carrier from that country. The EU update follows measures already taken by two of its Member States to ban the air carriers in question from their territory. With this update, the carrier Meridian Airways from Ghana is included in the list of banned airlines as a consequence of a series of very poor results from inspections involving not only their aircraft but also facilities used by the airline in the EU. Another air carrier from Ghana, Airlift International, was inspected in a Member State and the results indicated a standard well below that required by international standards. The Air Safety Committee unanimously supported the introduction of operating restrictions on Airlift International to exclude from operations
into the EU the inspected aircraft, plus two others that are currently in storage. This leaves the company with one aircraft that is still permitted to operate into the EU. The Commission will review the case of the two carriers at the next meeting of the Air Safety Committee in November. The EU list of banned airlines in the EU contains individual air carriers, such as those above, as well as all airlines from Angola, Benin, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, (with the exception of three carriers which operate under restrictions and conditions), Kazakhstan (with the exception of one carrier which operates under restrictions and conditions), the Kyrgyz Republic, Liberia, Philippines, Republic of Congo, Sierra Leone, Sao Tome and Principe, Sudan, Swaziland and Zambia. The full, updated list can be consulted on the EU Commission’s website.
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autumn 2010 | 15
TURN BUSINESS TRIPS INTO PLEASANT DRIVES Reservations : 02/348 92 12
www.europcar.be
The Traveller
Paul Richter
“Our company travel policy is to use low cost airlines whenever we can” As part of a regular series in The Corporate Traveller, we interview executives about their views on business travel and how their company travel policies are changing. This month we caught up with frequent flyer Paul Richter, who is based in Paris.
UU Paul Richter
The Corporate Traveller: First of all Paul, can you give us a little background about yourself?
P
aul Richter: I live in Boulogne-Billancourt, just outside of Paris, and I work for a group of international management consultants. I am French, 42 years old, married and I have four children.
TCT: What kind of travel you do for work?
P.R.: I have to travel for work fairly often, typically four times a month for international trips. These trips are mainly for working with my clients’ teams and for attending trade congresses. Most of my trips are to Europe, with the UK, Portugal, Belgium, Italy, Poland, Hungary, and
Ukraine being the most frequent destinations. I also travel to the US twice a year and Asia twice a year for work. When I am travelling in Europe, I try to arrange a return journey in the same day, or to stay for a maximum of one night. When I am in the US or Asia, I am normally there for about four days.
TCT: Does your company have a travel policy?
P.R.: Yes! Our company travel policy is to use low cost airlines whenever we can. As our executives do need to travel a lot, we try to keep the budget as reasonable as possible. If a low cost flight is not an option, then it’s economy class, even for long haul trips. I mainly use non-flexible tickets, which I try to purchase three or four weeks ahead of time. This does mean that occasionally I end up throwing away a low cost ticket. When I go to London, I prefer to take the train. It is much more convenient and I gain four hours
of working time. It also means that I don’t have to travel all the way out to Roissy Airport. All of our company’s executives make their own bookings, online.
TCT: And hotels?
P.R.: When I am travelling to international business conventions, I stay in the hotel where the conference is taking place, or a hotel reserved by the event organisers. As these trips are for business development and networking, it facilitates meetings with clients and prospects who will be there. If my trip is for a client meeting, then I chose the hotel nearest to their offices.
“If a low cost flight is not an option, then it’s economy class, even for long haul trips”
TCT: Has the economic downturn affected your company’s travel policy?
P.R.: Since 2009 we have reduced the amount of com-
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autumn 2010 | 17
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The Traveller
they are very high quality. That means investing in good quality video conferencing facilities, or reserving a well equipped meeting room that has them – which we have done in the past. However it is only really suitable for internal meetings, not for sales or networking.
TCT: What do you look for in a good hotel?
UU the school run before leaving for the airport is a rush
“Airlines should understand the real stress that it causes to some passengers”
pany travel by approximately one-third. We have also cut the cost of our travel budget for internal meetings. Although our company’s offices are in Sweden, Scotland and Paris, we sometimes have our meetings in another destination where everyone can travel on low cost airlines – for example in Nice, Charleroi or Ireland.
TCT: Do you think that technologies such as video conferencing could be used to lighten your travel schedule?
P.R.: Of course, but these technologies can only work if
P.R.: Service! It’s the quality of the reception staff, a bar open in the evening, a restaurant, room service and a good concierge to give you information and tips about the city. Last week I actually walked away from a hotel I had reserved, as the reception service was so poor.
TCT: Your worst airline experiences?
P.R.: The terrible service I recently had on an Asian airline springs to mind. The air hostess was really unpleasant and she served us up a ‘shoe box’ containing a rhum baba all mixed up with some kind of chicken and boxes of orange juice that nobody could open. However, my worst travelling problems have been caused by weather conditions. On the whole these were not really the fault of airlines, but rather of airports. The lack of preparation by some airports is really annoying. In Paris air traffic gets delayed for just 1cm of snow. Most US airports are much better prepared and have good systems in place to avoid interrupting services. Once it took me 48 hours to get back from Venice to Paris-Roissy, just because there was a threat of snow. When you are travelling with a low cost airline, it is worse, as the only way you can try to get on another flight is by internet or contacting their call centre – and
of course they are too busy to cope with the demand.
TCT: What do you dislike most about travelling for work?
P.R.: Mainly that I don’t enjoy being away from my family. Its also frustrating when I travel to extraordinary cities like Budapest, but I don’t have the chance to visit them.
TCT: How could airlines and hotels make the lives of business travellers easier?
P.R.: For hotels, that they make checking out as quick and easy as possible. There is typically a morning rush hour at hotels for checking out, and sometimes you can find yourself in a queue for over 20 minutes. I prefer hotels that ask you to sign in before hand and then send you the final invoice afterwards. For airlines, that they don’t leave their customers stranded when there is a problem. Airlines should understand the real stress that it causes to some passengers. The volcano crisis was a perfect example of this. I was lucky, as I got back to Paris on the last flight that day, but I know of some others that were in a very difficult situation. Especially with the low cost airlines there were no personnel around at all to help. Even a low cost airline should not let down their faithful customers.
| CORPORATE TRAVELLER.NET
autumn 2010 | 19
Travel management
The Travel Gold Rush 2020
A major new industry report, The Travel Gold Rush 2020, outlines how the travel sector can better ride the global economic rollercoaster and secure future growth and profitability. Pointing to the death of traditional airline cabin classes; the rise of face-to-face agents; the dominance of Asia; the decline of business class and the importance of delivering a total travel experience, the study provides new thinking and innovative scenarios to support the future of travel.
T
he report was developed by Oxford Economics, a prominent economic forecasting consultancy, and commissioned by Amadeus, a leading travel technology partner and transaction processor for the global travel and tourism industry. Based on macroeconomic forecasts and extensive input from key industry experts across airlines, travel agents, think-tanks and international organisations, the report details new revenue opportunities, drivers of profitability, new models for delivering services and the changes in traveller tastes set to influence the future of the industry.
Exploring the future
According to Philippe Chérèque, EVP, Commercial at Amadeus, “We felt that the time was right to focus equally on the industry trends that could stimulate thinking and discussion about how to secure new revenue
20 | CORPORATE TRAVELLER.NET
autumn 2010 |
The future of travel opportunities and profitability, how to organize our industry to work more effectively across the value chain and how to meet the needs of travellers. In the Travel Gold Rush 2020, we explore new models of co-operation; how a total travel experience can be delivered; and whether or not the future for airlines and agents lies in fundamentally reshaping the services they provide.” Adrian Cooper, Chief Executive, Oxford Economics said: “For the first time, we explore some of the long-term structural issues that have prevented the travel sector from securing profit and how the barriers can be overcome by
thinking more broadly about the macroeconomic environment, future business models and changing traveller tastes.” A key input to this report is the contribution of expert interviewees. These included participants from major airlines across the world, travel industry experts, online travel agents, tour companies and participants drawn from Amadeus itself. These interviews, combined with macroeconomic forecasts from Oxford Economics, provided insights into how industry participants themselves see the industry developing in future years.
The central thread throughout the report is an investigation into the options available to airlines and agents as they seek growth and profitability. While the travel sector has experienced significant growth in the last decade, profitability remains stubbornly elusive for many airlines and agents.
Key Findings
The report explores some of the scenarios that shed light on where the industry may find new revenue opportunities or ‘pots of gold’. It focuses on issues such as greater collaboration across the industry, shifting business models, the opportunities presented
by the ‘total travel experience’ and changing demographics. Here are some of the 9 key findings and insights… The global travel industry is making an uneven recovery from the recession. 2010 has seen a return to growth with global arrivals increasing 5.6% in the first six months of the year. However, Europe remains sluggish and there are lingering economic concerns. Hotspots remain Latin America and Asia-Pacific. Asia will represent one third of travel spending by 2020 – up from 21% today. Macroeconomic modelling by Oxford Economics has suggested a dramatic realignment of travel spend over the next decade. Asia will account for nearly 22% of global arrivals by 2020 (up from 18% in 2008) and the region’s residents will account for 32% of travel spending by 2020.
Options For Growth Ancillary services offer new opportunities but they may not be the silver bullet to revenue growth that many expect. Ancillary revenue generation has spread from LCCs to major carriers and become an increasingly important source of revenues; however, it may not be the answer to revenue growth many would like. Considerable uncertainty remains about how important ancillary revenues will be in the long term, especially to major carriers. Nonetheless, with estimates suggesting that ancillary revenues may contribute anything up to 35% of airline revenues in the future the industry needs to fully understand where the opportunities lie. Airlines and agents must explore new models that take a more comprehensive view of the total travel experience. Airlines may adopt a broader (or generic) approach to travel and
integrate activities more closely with the rest of the travel value chain. There may be potential to derive yield from alliances with high speed rail providers, from customers who are willing to pay for seamless travel (e.g. improved ground transfers/ transport), and by taking closer account of customer preferences beyond the airline trip itself. In general, there are significant opportunities for airlines (and agents) which could arise from the weak points in the current value chain, such as the disconnect between ground transportation and the flight. Passenger willingness to pay for a smooth travel experience seems to be a significant opportunity, with a variety of sources of value but one which has so far gone largely unexploited. New technologies offer the potential to access these sources of value by allowing airlines and agents to more closely tailor their products to match traveller preferences.
expert advice in the future. Their customer proposition will focus on ensuring that their clients are assisted across the entirety of the travel experience.
Exploring The New Frontiers Richer, older and going somewhere - demographic changes will alter Western travel. Demographic changes and health advances will mean more travellers with more free time, who travel for longer periods and who are still able to incorporate a variety of travel experience. These new travellers will present new opportunities for airlines and agents. Business travel will recover from the recent recession but business class may face changes.
Videoconferencing is likely to supplement rather than supplant business travel due to industry growth and the continuing advantages of F2F contact, particularly for initial meetings. Analysis in the US suggests that for every dollar invested in business travel companies realise $12.50 in incremental revenue. Business class is most likely to survive and thrive but classes in general are likely to become increasingly fragmented. Emerging nations’ travel habits remain the great unknown. Despite their importance (and macroeconomic forecasts indicating broad trends) there is some uncertainty about where citizens from emerging nations may travel to or how their tastes may differ from Western travellers. The demographic trends associ-
The Future Revealed Traditional cabin classes to be replaced by “virtual classes” as individual traveller preferences create a personalized experience. The future of the aircraft cabin is set to go through significant changes as customers are able to share their preferences with airlines and airlines will be expected to meet their individual needs leading to the decline of traditional cabin classes. Face-to-face (F2F) travel agents set to become more highly valued. F2F agents may evolve to provide more services across the entire travel experience, particularly at its weak points. As travellers increasingly try out new experiences and destinations, it is likely that F2F agents may be able to play to their strengths of being there. They are likely to focus on industry niches/deep
| CORPORATE TRAVELLER.NET
autumn 2010 | 21
Travel management
rs ito Vis
Foreign visitor spend
2020
3.7%
%
.2 % 24
22 .8%
.8% 21
19 .0%
0 202 5 201 0 201 5 200 0 0 20 5 9 19
% 3.4 % 2.5
% %
3.0
3.1
$127 bn
5.1% 4.9% 4.8% 4.1%
20 1 20 5 10 20 05 200 0 199 5
20
20
4%
%
2.8
5.5%
$69 bn
as % of world travel
$62 bn
5.7% 5.9%
3.0%
3.4%
Middle East
940 bn 1,866 bn
Foreign visitor spend
6.1%
2020
$32 bn
2010 2020
2020 2015 2010 2005 2000 1995
sO
nt
ide s Re
$66 bn
2.7%
3.3
3. $29 bn
2010
22.4%
$606 bn 2020
28.1%
Resident travel spend
$603 bn
7% 23.
2010
22.9%
2020
32.3%
%
25.2
27.0%
The Travel Gold Rush 2020:
Global Resident Travel Spend ($):
1,085 bn 2,160 bn
2010
$243 bn
00 20 5 200 0 201 5 201 0 202
1,054,750,000 1,658,139,000
3.5% 2.5%
ut
5%
Resident travel spend
2%
2.
3.
Foreign visitor spend
%
2.6
In
as % of world travel
2010
15.
North Ameri ca
Resid
20 15 20 0 01 % 2 6 . 2 05 % 20 00 6 . 2 20 % 95 2.6 % 19
Latin America
2010 2020
898,838,000 1,342,750,000
Global Foreign Visitor Spend ($): 2010 2020
20
2.4
19
Global Residents Out:
Global Visitors In: 2010 2020
9%
21.
n
ica er
11.3% 14.0% 15.6%
ents
Out
10.3% 10.6%
Visitors In
2020 2015 2010 2005 2000 1995
.9%
14
sI
As ia
Out
12.6%
10.5%
.8%
12 95
Vis ito rs
2020
ope Eur
In
15.0%
to r
Lat in Am
$235 bn
2010
Vi si
ast dle E Mid
$141 bn
2000 1995
14.1%
Resident travel spend
Spending by Asia-Pacific residents is forecast to account for 32% of the total in 2020 – much larger than the 2010 level of 22.9%.
Foreign visitor spend
t
16.0%
In
Ou
2020
9.0 % 9.1 % 202 9.6 0 % 201 5 10. 201 5% 0 13.4 200 5 %
ts Out
Residen
ts en sid Re
15.9%
The most significant trend is a shift in arrivals to the Asia-Pacific region which will account for over 24% of global arrivals by 2020.
$216 bn
ific ac -P
$346 bn
2010
2020 2015 2010 2005 2000 1995
0 202 5 201 0 1 20 5 0 20 0 0 20 95 19
as % of world travel
$172 bn
6%
9% 47. .8% 49 .5% 50 .5% 54 .7% 55 .5% 56
North America
.4%
41.2%
16
2020
19 9 20 5 20 00 20 05 20 10 20 15 20
$769 bn
51.5%
40.0%
53.5%
2020
as % of world travel
54.2%
49.2% 55.9%
$463 bn 2010
61.6%
46.6%
% 64.7
$506 bn 2010
$864 bn
Asia-Pacific
Resident travel spend
Foreign visitor spend
Residents
as % of world travel
rs ito Vis
Europe
2010
5.7%
2020
5.9%
$101 bn
Global travel spend is projected to double between 2010 and 2020
2010
5.4%
The graphs compare real and estimated foreign visitor arrivals and resident departures for major global travel markets as a % of world data. Individual data for Africa is not shown. The data used is provided by Oxford Economics which undertakes regular forecasts of travel and tourism activity on behalf of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
2020
5.4%
For more information on The Travel Gold Rush 2020, visit www.amadeus.com/goldrush2020
Resident travel spend
$51 bn
How Global Travel is Changing
Trends for Brighter, Bolder, Better travel ated with Western travellers may be less relevant when applied to the emerging markets.
Conclusions
How to secure growth and profitability remains an important issue for both airlines and travel agents. Nonetheless, current trends point to significant opportunities for both. Airlines could benefit from taking a broader approach to their business, with a greater focus on passenger preferences and needs. There are clearly areas where passengers are willing to pay for improved services and support. The rise of ancillary revenue has highlighted some of these, occasionally to the surprise of airlines themselves (e.g. willingness to pay for better seating and superior meals).
However, there are also opportunities to tap into the broader travel experience and to address the weak points or gaps in the current system. These involve thinking about travel as an end to end process (akin to how many passengers view it) and could include areas such as better management of the ground interface (seamless travel), paying more attention to passenger preferences (e.g. which airports are preferable from a passenger perspective) providing passenger support in trips to less familiar destinations, and much better integration of smartphones and other related technologies. The growth of mobile technologies and the spread of electronic data exchange, provide airlines with the opportunity to match passenger preferences much more closely in the future and
tap into these sources of value. However, unlike the simpler aspects of existing ancillary revenue services, this requires both a willingness to take a broader view of the travel process and closer cooperation with other service providers.
Challenges for the future
Agents potentially face even greater challenges than airlines in managing their future business. However, there is a continuing need for the expertise which face to face (F2F) agents bring and online booking faces clear limitations. Indeed F2F agents who manage their business skillfully and re-emphasise their traditional roles look set to benefit from a number of future trends which will allow them to exploit their traditional sources
of comparative advantage such as personalised service. The fragmentation of the travel market, the growth of less familiar destinations, time poverty, an ageing population with specialized needs and the growing recognition that support is needed when things go wrong all point to opportunities for F2F agents. As is the case with airlines, improved integration with new technologies (e.g. analysis of customer preferences, selling real-time information products through smartphones) would also allow agents to more closely gear their product to traveller tastes, with benefits to both customers and themselves. To download a copy of the report, please visit: http://www.amadeus.com/Benelux/ goldrush2020
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autumn 2010 | 23
Travel management
Amadeus e-Travel Management
The train as feasible alternative As the congestion on our roads gets worse, and the ecological impact of short-haul air travel is increasingly being questioned, the train is again coming to the fore. What is more, great efforts are being put everywhere into ever faster rail links, and there is a noticeable increase in the comfort level. So employers are more often seeing travel by train as a worthy alternative for business travel. The Corporate Traveller got together with Brecht Vanhee of Rail1, distributor of the NMBS (Belgian railways) tickets for international passenger travel, and Olivier Smeets of Amadeus that supplies technology to facilitate every booking process. tion with Rail1; and this simplifies the booking process for the corporate traveller.”
How important is the train nowadays for business travellers?
B
recht Vanhee: “We are seeing a tremendous evolution in rail travel within the business segment. Because of the crisis, 2009 was a difficult year for everyone, but today we are benefitting from a recovery in turnover of more than 10 percent. So train travel is certainly on the up.”
And what is your explanation for this?
Brecht Vanhee: “Several reasons for this come to mind. For example, trains keep getting faster. We have brought a number of high-speed lines into service. For travelling to Germany, for instance, we have cut the time by half an hour, and for the Netherlands by almost an hour. It used to take three hours to get from Brussels to Amsterdam, but now you can do it in two. Another great advantage is that travel by train is considerably more comfortable than travel by air. You don’t have to face a one
24 | CORPORATE TRAVELLER.NET
autumn 2010 |
How did this collaboration between Amadeus and Rail1 come about?
hour check-in, and on the train you can work with your laptop, make telephone calls, and there is an electrical supply… - all advantages that air travel does not offer at present. You can also get a meal if you want one, at a keen price in relation to the quality provided.” Olivier Smeets: “These trends have not escaped the notice of Amadeus either. We have already been offering the possibility of booking train journeys in Amadeus e-Travel Management, our corporate booking engine, for several years. In the Summer of 2009 we brought a new version of the rail module onto the market, which we developed in collabora-
Brecht Vanhee: ““We have been working together from the moment that Rail1 was set up in the late nineties. It is obvious why we made contact with Amadeus. They already had a distribution system within the travel sector, and we also wanted to make our
train tickets available via the travel sector. Amadeus already had printers located in travel offices for printing plane tickets, so we asked them whether we could have the travel agents also print train tickets in the same way, because the cost of installing specific printers everywhere was obviously prohibitive for us. We therefore entered into collaboration with Amadeus, so that the tickets from our booking module could be printed via the Amadeus print module. That was the first step. Since then we
have extended our collaboration further, and have also considered offering on-line train booking. We saw that there was a demand in the market for making reservations online, because the offline case cost was too high.” Olivier Smeets: “Amadeus brought e-Travel Management onto the market for online booking, initially only for air, car, and hotel, but eventually the train was included.” Brecht Vanhee: “Using Webservices technology, train booking has been integrated effectively into the Amadeus module, so that companies can make train reservations themselves online in a single module. It was important that they didn’t have to switch over specially to a different module to book train tickets. That is why
we have integrated everything into the Amadeus module, so that it would appear seamless to the client. If the client using the Amadeus module asks for the availability of, for example, Brussels-Paris, the Amadeus system will check with our system via Webservices to see whether there are still seats. We send these results back, and they are transformed into an attractive layout that works in exactly the same way as the air travel module and all the other facilities of Amadeus eTravel Management. So, for the client it looks as if they are just dealing with a single Amadeus module. They do not need to know what’s going on behind the scenes. The only thing that matters to them is, Can I book? Are there still seats? How much does it cost? That is what it all amounts to.”
Olivier Smeets: “Because Rail1 and the NMBS already had their own booking system, we decided on this solution with Webservices. But if this hadn’t been the case, for the last two years Amadeus has had a complete IT platform for railway companies, which would have also enabled us to provide the booking engines and revenue management systems ourselves. So Amadeus e-Travel Management provides all the essential functionality. You can consult the timetable, you can book the ticket, you can issue it in various ways, you can store your profile, the travel agent gets a case reference,… In addition, the booking of the train can be combined with hotel reservations, car reservations, and even flight reservations.”
world. When flying, you always have to check in, and you travel from point a to point b. With a train, there are stations along the route where you can get on and off. And, what is more, our trains cross national borders. So if we want to introduce a new form of ticket, this will also have to be accepted by the other railway companies. But, at any rate, we are now working hard on homeprint. With this, the traveller can book via Amadeus e-Travel Management in the usual way, but, instead of receiving a paper ticket by post, he now simply receives an e-mail with a
What other new developments can we expect in this field?
Brecht Vanhee: “The ecological aspect is naturally important. Europe is currently investigating a measure to ban all short-haul flights, and to replace them with trains. That is a current point of discussion. But we are also in discussion with the airlines to offer the train for feeder lines. For example, if China Airlines flies to Bangkok from Amsterdam but not from Brussels, the traveller must proactively indicate that he wants to fly from Amsterdam to Bangkok. We want to add the train journey to this, so if someone requests Brussels-Bangkok, via Amadeus they will see the option Brussels-Schiphol by train as a connection to the flight to Bangkok, with an inclusive price that can be easily compared with direct flights from Brussels. That is a significant development with which we are the first in Europe. The seat reservation is made via the GDS at the time of booking. When you book Brussels-Schiphol online, a seat on the train is booked immediately via Amadeus. And that is really revolutionary.”
Olivier Smeets: “We try to keep improving our product. We have recently set up a working group that also involves our Amadeus e-Travel Management clients. We want to determine what new functionality they would still like to see in the system. In this way, we constantly try to improve the system. Amadeus e-Travel Management is the most important system for the corporate traveller who wants to book online. The trend towards online booking is set to continue, because everyone wants to reduce their costs as far as possible.”
Can we also expect mobile applications for the train in the near future?
Brecht Vanhee: “As far as delivery methods are concerned, we are evolving in the direction of e-fulfilment, something that has long been the situation in the world of air travel, but is much more difficult in the railway
pdf attachment that he can print out, and with which he can get on the train.”
Is ecology also a factor in the choice between train, car, and plane?
| CORPORATE TRAVELLER.NET
autumn 2010 | 25
Your people. Our solutions.
BCD Travel Groups Department brings your people together. Not only does BCD Travel offer you all-round services for corporate travel, our specialists can also handle all your group travel requests. When it comes to incentives, such as team building activities, survival weekends, product launches or holidays for your employees, we offer personalized solutions. BCD Travel organizes your seminars, congresses and meetings in a professional way. Whenever, wherever and at attractive group rates. Would you like to receive more information or a price estimation? Contact BCD Travel Groups Department at +32 (0)3 200 57 70 or by email to grouprequest@bcdtravel.be.
associations
2010 – the year
of the Airline Alliances It has been a particularly busy year for the three global airline associations of SkyTeam, oneworld and Star Alliance. The economic downturn has had the effect of bringing airlines into a much closer spirit of cooperation. Over 70% of scheduled airlines are now affiliated to an alliance, each of which is competing to win the best global offering for the lucrative business traveller market. Besides the increase in airlines joining alliances, there have been so many mergers, multilateral agreements and codeshare announcements that it is getting hard to keep track. We questioned airline associations on some of the latest movements and what they mean for their strategies.
“T
he trend for airline alliances to extend their reach wider has happened as travellers, especially business travellers, need a much bigger network than they did 15 or 20 years ago” said Marcus Ruediger of Star Alliance, the longest serving and largest alliance in terms of airline members. “Its true there have been many changes recently and, especially with the airline merg-
UU Oneworld lounge Los Angeles
ers we have seen, its difficult to say exactly how many airlines are in each alliance. With Aegean Airlines recent entry, right now we have 28 airlines - but Shanghai Airlines is leaving us following its merger with China Eastern Airlines, then we have Air India and Ethiopian Airlines lined up to join us next year and there has been the merger of United Airlines and Continental Airlines.” Star Alliance’s strong North American network, with Air Canada, US Airways, United Airlines and Continental, has seen the aforementioned merger of United and Continental, and the announcement of a joint venture between United and Air Canada this year. But there is competition on the transatlantic market from the other two airline associations – notably from
UU SkyTeam celebrates 10th Anniversary
SkyTeam’s Air France-KLMDelta consortium and with the trilateral agreement between oneworld’s British Airways, Iberia and American Airlines now approved and signed.
Promising markets
Besides Europe and the transatlantic market, the alliances are particularly keen on winning market share in the countries and regions that have continued to show promise even through the recession. “The alliances are working on filling their so-called ‘white spots’ in these regions” said oneworld’s Michael Blunt. “At oneworld we want to offer a leading coverage of the key places that the international business traveller wants to reach. When we last did a strategic review, we identified that areas for big growth will include Russia, Eastern Europe, CIS and
UU Oneworld’s VP Communications Michael Blunt India. Towards these objectives, this year we have been joined by S7, the biggest domestic carrier in Russia and the CIS, and by Kingfisher, India’s largest domestic airline. Air Berlin, the fifth largest Airline in Europe will be also be joining us soon. These are very significant additions to our stable indeed.” Asia, Latin America and Africa, have all shown growth in business travel and thus become regional battlegrounds for airline alliances. The landscape of Latin America’s airline industry
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autumn 2010 | 27
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associations
including on some of the underserved markets.”
Airline and customer benefits
UU Vietnam Airlines joins SkyTeam has been especially undergoing transformations this year. Mexicana, part of the oneworld alliance, suspended its operations this summer, leading other international oneworld members to substantially increase their offerings to Mexico. Then there is the impending merger of Chile’s LAN Airlines and Brazil’s TAM to form a mega-Latin American airline group, LATAM. Which airline alliance LATAM, will choose is yet to be decided as LAN is currently with oneworld and TAM with Star Alliance. It is possible, as they intend to operate separately under one holding company, that LAN and TAM may chose to remain in their existing separate alliances. SkyTeam too is actively working to strengthen its presence in Latin America. Already present in Central America with Aeromexico, one of its founder members, SkyTeam announced in October that it is to welcome its first South American airline, with the arrival of Argentina’s flag carrier Aerolíneas Argentinas. “2010 was a great year for SkyTeam as we celebrated our 10th birthday in June, and we have made significant progress in attracting new member airlines, including Aerolineas Argentinas and Romanian carrier TAROM” said SkyTeam’s Bernard Castel. “Our network has grown to nearly 900 destinations, and in terms of ticket bookings we have a 23% market share of all ticket bookings worldwide. We have achieved this good market share thanks to the quality of our member airlines such as
Air France-KLM which is Europe’s largest carrier in terms of passengers, Delta, which is number 1 in the US and China Southern which is Asia’s largest airline. The reinforcement of our Asia Pacific network has been especially successful this year, with Vietnam Airlines as a new member and the announcements that China Eastern (which is merging with China Southern) and Taiwan’s China Airlines will join us in 2011.” Africa is another region enjoying growth in business travel and thus a target area for the alliances. SkyTeam currently operates the highest amount of traffic on routes from Europe and the US to Africa, especially through carriers Air France-KLM and Kenya Airways, but Star Alliance also has a strong offer to, and throughout the continent. “Africa has been a big focus for Star Alliance’s development strategy” said Marcus Ruediger. “We started with South African Airways in 2006 and then with Egyptair in 2008, which together gave us a good feed into South and North Africa. With Ethiopian Airlines joining us next year and our European airlines which have a strong presence on the African continent, notably Brussels Airlines and Lufthansa, we now have a good coverage. Africa shows a large potential for growth and we are definitely ready to provide the capacity and the uplift that the market is looking for. Our three African member airlines are looking at ways that they can work even closer together to provide more services to African destinations,
Joining a global alliance necessitates a certain amount of investment from an airline, as they need to fulfil an extensive list of quality requirements and pay membership fees. But there are multiple benefits, the first and foremost being increased passenger traffic due to connecting passengers feeding into and out of their networks from other alliance carriers. Some airlines even report as much as a 50 percent increase on certain routes following their joining an alliance. Then there are the cost saving synergies – such as sharing lounge and check-in facilities, joint marketing initiatives and group purchasing opportunities. Star Alliance for example, already has joint fuel suppliers for alliance members at some airports. Added to this, airline alliance members gain from improved visibility and a certain stamp of approval on their standards of quality which helps to attract new customers.
sets, acting as a strong incentive to keep passengers flying within an alliance’s carriers. Front of cabin passengers and those holding higher status loyalty cards also get to use airport lounges of other airlines within the respective alliance.
A risk to competition?
So with the growth in large multilateral agreements, especially within alliances, is there not a risk that there could be some sort of cartel on ticket prices? “In order to obtain anti-trust immunity, airlines are obliged to respect a number of rules, one of the most important being the respect for normal competition” said Bernard Castel. “This applies to airlines entering into codesharing agreements, mergers or global alliances. Any breaches of competition law would result in heavy penalties from the regulatory authorities and possibly the loss of slots at airports. And of course it would be extremely bad publicity for the airlines involved.” But taking the argument further could we eventually see some kind of global airline evolving as a progression of large airline consortiums within airline alliances? Apparently the idea is not so far fetched. “Many people think that at the end of the day it is feasible, but if it does happen it would take a long time to complete cross border negotiations for a truly global agreement” said oneworld’s Michael Blunt. “It’s not an impossible scenario, but it would be a step by step process”.
The three alliances are all working on ways to provide additional value for customers, especially in the corporate sector. Company clients can negotiate global purchasing agreements across the alliance airlines and benefit from products such as SkyTeam’s global meetings offer. The passenger gets faster, smoother connections and, most importantly, the ability to earn and burn loyalty miles across a network of airlines, with opportunities such as round the world tickets, or regional passes. The advantages vaunted by each of the alliances’ frequent traveller programmes are effectively one of their most important as- UU TAROM joins SkyTeam
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air ways
TAROM Airlines joins Skyteam TAROM Romanian Air Transport officially joined the SkyTeam global airline alliance at a ceremony held in Bucharest late June. By welcoming TAROM into SkyTeam, the alliance further strengthens its network reach in Central and Eastern Europe. TAROM becomes the 13th carrier to join SkyTeam, which marked its 10th anniversary on 22 June. On this occasion, The Corporate Traveller interviewed Madalina Mezei, TAROM’s General Manager for Belgium.
T
AROM’s joining into the SkyTeam Alliance was officially announced in Bucharest, by Mr. Radu Berceanu, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure from Romania,Mrs.Ruxandra Brutaru, President and CEO of TAROM Airlines, Mr. Leo van Wijk, Chairman of the SkyTeam Governing Board, Mr. Marie-Joseph Malé, Managing Director of SkyTeam and Mr. Dominique Patry,Vice President International and Alliances at Air France.
Over the past two years, TAROM has worked intensively to fulfil SkyTeam’s membership requirements. What has changed for your customers?
Madalina Mezei: First of all, I would like to stress out TAROM’s pride to become a SkyTeam member. This membership offered TAROM the status of a global player in the civil aviation field. On the other hand, TAROM – Romanian Air Transport has the inheritance of the Romanian pioneers in the civil aviation field, contributing to its development as following:
UU Madalina Mezei
UU Gabriela Bordea • 1906 in Paris, Traian Vuia was the first to design and pilot a heavier-than-air flying machine able to take off without a catapult by entirely relying on its own engine. • 1910 on Cotroceni field, near Bucharest, Aurel Vlaicu made the first public demonstration by flying his own designed and built airplane. • 1912 another young and talented Romanian engineer named Henri Coanda designed the first jet aircraft, thus anticipating by more than 30 years the first commercial applications of the jet engine.
Hence, TAROM adherence to SkyTeam had a double determination, contributing to both the global dimension of TAROM and to the deeper development of SkyTeam. Of course, the integration part was not an easy process, however all the work involved has given us the deserved pay back in terms of brand recognition and complexity of service to be offered to our customers.
Several members of the alliance also serve your Bucharest hub. Should we expect some change in the services to the Romanian capital city?
M.M.: The operation inside the alliance is meant to offer the service according to the customer demand. Therefore at the SkyTeam level we complete the service offered to our customers in terms of both availabilities and schedules. The aim is to take the best advantages of the network synergies between SkyTeam member airlines and to offer to the passengers multiple choices of travel at the best level of service.
What’s the role of the Benelux countries in TAROM’s strategy?
M.M.: TAROM operation to Benelux market has its own business level strategy, fitted within the overall strategy of TAROM. However our business philosophy is also based on the local market specific. As a result, on the Benelux market we have two different approaches, one for the operation to Brussels and one for the operation to Amsterdam. On Brussels, we take into consideration the European determination. We focus on schedules and convenience, our objective following the travel needs. It is very clear that when we approach such a business philosophy, we
are applying a differentiation strategy for a premium service. By the contrary, on Amsterdam our strategy is focused on the volume of the passengers transported. In this respect, the code-share agreement between TAROM and KLM is a positive example of how companies can produce synergies inside the alliance framework while maintaining their own identity and objectives.
What are TAROM’s key strengths now?
M.M.: Safety, Comfort, On Time Operation, Freedom of Choice, Global Operation, Key Partners, Differentiation, Extensive Frequent Flyer Program.
Does TAROM plan new extensions in a near future?
M.M.: TAROM’s plan is to consolidate its existing network of destinations as part of its strategy. Apart from this, TAROM is a member of SkyTeam airline alliance starting 25th of June 2010 and has access to a global network with more destinations, more frequencies and more connectivity.
How important is business travel to TAROM’s feature?
M.M.: The business travel is our targeted traffic, especially on Belgian market. We plan our operation in order to adapt to the business travel need. Our SkyTeam membership helps us to create synergies for the business customer benefit. In this regards, we offer the best schedules, the check-in dedicated counter for business passengers, the best option for airport lounges, the best in-flight service, the best customer service. Our business philosophy is to make the business customer part of our decision making process!
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Air ways
The Corporate Traveller 2010 Airline Awards The results have arrived for the second annual Corporate Traveller Airline Awards. Over a period of three months, we interviewed 331 Corporate Traveller subscribers in the Benelux region on their favourite airlines. The survey covered reader preferences in four categories - for business class, economy class, long-haul and short-haul flights. The results of our reader poll and comments from the winning airlines follow below.
O
ver the past year, Brussels Airport has expanded its schedule with the addition of a number of airlines and city destinations. This could explain why we can see several new entries appearing on our top ten airline listings for 2010, such as SAS, CityJet, LOT Polish Airlines, Adria Airways, Austrian Airlines and Turkish Airlines. Our readers’ preferences included carriers from all around the globe, with airlines from Africa, the Middle-East, Asia, North America and, of course, Europe finding their way onto the rankings.
Best Airlines – Short-Haul Flights
In the short haul category, KLM has moved up to the leader position, while Brussels Airlines and Lufthansa figure in the top three, as last year. “Air France and KLM are very proud to be chosen as best airlines both in the short and long-haul categories” said Yu-Ming Sie, the Commercial Manager of Air France KLM for Belgium and Luxembourg. UU Yu-Ming SIE “The readers of The Corporate Traveller have recognized our commitment to propose innovative products dedicated to the corporate and business segments, such as our BlueBiz corporate loyalty programme, the Global Meetings offer and the new Premium Voyageur and Economy Comfort classes. This demonstrates our capacity to constantly adapt our offer to the needs and wishes of our business travellers”.
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The Top 10
1. KLM 2. Brussels Airlines 3. Lufthansa 4. TAP Portugal/SAS 5. CityJet 6. Finnair/British Airways 7. Air France 8. Alitalia/Austrian Airlines 9. LOT Polish Airlines 10. Adria Airways/Turkish Airlines
Best Airlines – Long-haul flights
Lufthansa has retained its premier position for Best Airline in the long-haul flights category, tying for first place with Air France. “We are very pleased to receive the highly regarded Corporate Traveller Airline Award for the second consecutive year” said Dirk Grossmann, Lufthansa’s General Manager for Belgium and Luxembourg. “As this is based on the votes of readers, it is especially valuable to us and we would like to thank them for their trust. We believe that Lufthansa offers a unique range of innovative and reliable products and services, for both business and leisure travellers. Customers are benefiting from the enhanced flexibility and connectivity provided by Lufthansa and its partners Austrian Airlines, bmi British Midland International, Brussels UU Dirk Grossmann
Airlines and SWISS. Our employees embrace our brand value, which puts our passengers first. We would not have received this prestigious award without the commitment and high motivation of our sales and service teams.”
The Top 10
1. Lufthansa/Air France 2. Brussels Airlines/ KLM 3. Jet Airways/Singapore Airlines 4. Thai Airways International 5. Iberia/Continental Airlines 6. Finnair/SAS 7. South African Airways 8. Emirates/ British Airways/TAP Portugal 9. Continental Airlines 10. Etihad Airways/ SWISS
Best Business Class
Best Business Class is the only category in our 2010 survey where the top two rankings were awarded to non-European airlines. Jet Airways obtained first place with our readers, while Etihad Airways, a new entrant to the Top 10, joins the list in second place. “On behalf of Jet Airways, I would like to thank all the voters of “The Corporate Traveller” for the distinct recognition of our Première Class, which is Jet Airways’ Business class product” said Stefan Hollands, General Manager of Jet Airways Benelux. “Our third position amongst the best long haul airlines category holds as well a special
The Top 10
1. Jet Airways 2. Etihad Airways 3. Lufthansa/Air France 4. Cathay Pacific 5. Brussels Airlines/TAP Portugal 6. SWISS 7. KLM 8. Thai Airways International 9. British Airways 10. Continental Airlines
Best Economy Class
Despite eight newcomers to this year’s listing of readers’ favourite economy class services, Brussels Airlines achieved first place with the voters for the second year running. “Brussels Airlines is very happy with this prestigious award!” said their spokesman Geert Sciot. “During challenging economic times, Brussels Airlines has made a difference for corporate travellers who are not allowed, or no longer entitled, to travel in business class, by creating a superb economy class product which is called b.flex. 35% of all Brussels Airlines’ clients are already travelling b.flex. They appreciate the many features UU Geert Sciot of this economy travel solution, such as the time-saving fast lane security, the extra luggage allowance, the extra space on board, their ticket flexibility and the delicious Belgian food and drinks on board. This award is, for Brussels Airlines, a clear recognition of its efforts to help corporate travellers who fly economy but still want to enjoy great comfort features and travel convenience.”
The Top 10 UU Stefan Hollands significance, as both awards are recognitions of our renowned service by none other than our passengers. Jet Airways has worked to continually enhance the excellent in-flight products and services on all our flights. These awards stand testimony to our commitment to continually focus on the needs of our guests, thus offering them a truly world-class travel experience.”
1. Brussels Airlines 2. Lufthansa 3. KLM/Etihad Airways 4. British Airways 5. LOT Polish Airlines/Jet Airways 6. Finnair 7. Air France 8. SAS 9. Continental Airlines 10. Emirates
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air ways
Brussels Airlines strengthens African ties with new routes and regional airline Brussels Airlines has enlarged its African network with the recent addition of four new links to Accra, Cotonou, Ouagadougou and Lome. The airline now offers 18 direct destinations to the continent from its Brussels hub, where it opened a dedicated terminal for African routes just last year. As further proof of its commitment to the African market, Brussels Airlines’ spokesperson Geert Sciot revealed to the Corporate Traveller that it is to begin operating a regional African airline by the beginning of 2011. UU Geert Sciot
“W
e are continuing to invest in Africa” confirmed Sciot. “With the new routes and additional aircraft we have added almost 50% extra passenger capacity to Africa over the last two years. There was a real market need as passengers worldwide are looking for reliable air services to these countries. Since entering the Star Alliance airline partnership last year, more than 50 percent of our travellers on African routes are connecting passengers. With the new dedicated terminal at Brussels Airport, connecting passengers to Africa now have a really smooth and efficient transfer, within a maximum of five minutes walking distance. There is a business class lounge in the same area, which is great for those on connecting flights, as they can take advantage of shower facilities and relaxation areas. On top of that, their aircraft leaves in front of the lounge.”
Historical link between Europe and Africa
The history of Belgian aviation to Africa dates back over 80 years. The first commercial flight between Brussels and Congo was operated in 1925, by Brussels Airline’s predecessor, Sabena. In those days it took air travellers 51 days to reach the Congo! “Sabena played an important role in the development of air travel to Africa and as Sabena’s successor, we are still benefiting from worldwide recognition as the African specialist airline” said Sciot. “When Brussels Airlines was created we immediately recommenced operations to reconnect Africa. We now fly to 18 African destinations from Brussels,
with a further 7 offered by our partner airlines. We are particularly strong in West Africa, where we serve almost all the countries along the Atlantic Ocean from the Senegal down to Angola. We also fly to Central Africa, to Burundi, Rwanda and of course the Congolese capital, Kinshasa, which is our busiest destination in Africa. Our East African routes, Nairobi and Entebbe, are complemented by Ethiopian Airlines’ network under our codesharing agreement.”
Launch of regional African airline
“What makes our offer to Africa unique is our operational and commercial expertise there” explained Sciot. “We even fly to destinations that are regarded as very challenging in terms of operational issues. To ensure a high standard of quality control, we have invested in our own support staff for ground operations, check-in, catering and commercial activities. As to future, we are studying a number of projects for Africa but I can reveal that we are preparing the launch of our own regional airline, ‘Korongo’ for the beginning of 2011. The new airline will be based in Kinshasa, and operate flights throughout the Congo and to neighbouring countries. It will be operated as a domestic African airline but with European standards. As existing Congolese airlines have been blacklisted by the airline authorities, Korongo will be excellent news for international business travellers.”
“With the new routes and additional aircraft we have added almost 50% extra passenger capacity to Africa over the last two years”
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Brussels Airlines’ new West African destinations YY West african craft markets
Brussels Airlines’ new destinations, Accra, Cotonou, Ougadogou and Lome are situated in the four neighbouring West African states of Ghana, Benin, Burkina Faso and Togo. The four countries have much in common. All are former European colonies which have regained their independence. Now democracies, each is undergoing economic development. The Corporate Traveller takes a closer look at the four cities. Accra, GHANA
G
hana is one of the larger African states and probably the most developed in terms of infrastructure. Over the centuries it was colonised by various European countries, before winning its independence in 1957. Today an estimated 250 languages and dialects are spoken in Ghana, but English is widely used. The country is rich in natural resources and its growing economy is boosted by exports including gold, metal ores, oil, cocoa and timber. Eco-tourism to Ghana is also developing, with tourists attracted by the country’s impressive national parks, rainforests and safaris. Accra, Ghana’s largest city and its capital, is located on the coastline. A metropolis spread over 200 square kilometres, the core of the city centre lies around its former European forts in the Ga, Jamestown, Osu and Usshertown areas. Here colonial architecture rubs shoulders with modern apartment blocks, hotels, museums, ministries and banks. Accra offers numerous visitor attractions include the European forts, the National Museum of Ghana, the Accra Centre for National Culture and of course, the city’s beaches. The central Osu district, around Oxford Street, is popular for its shops and restaurants. Ghana has the reputation of offering some of the best African cuisine and the capital has plenty of
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good restaurants. One of the best
known, Buka, can be found in the Osu district. It offers a variety of fine West African cuisine, from groundnut soup to guinea fowl. Accra has a well developed offering of four and five star hotels, downtown, especially near Osu, and near Kotoka International Airport, 7km from the city centre.
Ouagadougou, BURKINA FASO
Located inland, Burkina Faso is surrounded by six other African states. Burkina has used this positioning to its advantage, forming strong collaborative projects with other African countries and attracting non-governmental organisations, such as the United Nations, to locate offices here. The country’s economy depends on these collaborative projects, along with agricultural production, mining and tourism.
VV Accra’s colonial forts
air ways
Cotonou that Benin’s embassies, government ministries, industries and banks are based. The city enjoys a good hotel and restaurant infrastructure. Boulevard de la Marina, the coastal road, is where most of Cotonou’s biggest hotels, such as the Hotel du Port, Ibis Cotonou, Novotel Orisha Cotonou and the Benin Marina are located. Amongst the nearby restaurants, locals recommend Maquis La Residence, for its charcoal grilled chicken and fish specialities, or the Pili-Pili restaurant, near Dantokpa market, for its local and European dishes.
Ougadougou, Burkina Faso’s capital, plays host to important cultural events and political summits, both African and international. Examples include the biannual FESPACO, the festival of pan-African cinema. The city’s well estabUU Cotonou Port lished meetings infrastructure includes the Ouga 2000 Conference Centre, the largest congress venue, 8km outside the city centre. The conference centre is complemented by business hotels such as the Laico Ouga 2000 and the Mercure Silmandé. The area surrounding the United Nations building is viewed by most as the heart of the city. Some of Ougadougou’s best known hotels, such as the Hotel des Palmiers and the Splendid hotel are located here. It is also the place to eat at some of the city’s favourite restaurants. As a city enjoying good economic growth, Ougadagou is carrying out expansion works to its transport networks. Access roads are being expanded and the airport, which is just 2km from the centre of Ouagadogou, will complete renovation works at the end of this year.
Cotonou, BENIN
Benin, on the coast between Togo and Nigeria, is another former French colony. Agriculture is Benin’s largest industry, with exports including textiles, cement and petroleum from offshore drilling platforms. International trade and investment are playing an ever increasing role in the economy, while tourism is also growing. Inland Benin is covered with savannas and national parks, with big game such as elephants, lions and hippos a major attraction for safaris. Although not the official capital, Cotonou is the true political and economic hub of Benin. The city is a crossroads for West African trade and one of the region’s largest ports, serving inland countries such as Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali. It is in
UU Rainforest walk
Cotonou International Airport serves the capitals of West Africa as well as Benin’s other major cities and there are good road connections to neighbouring countries.
Lome, TOGO
Togo is the one of the smaller West African nations. Barely 150 km across at it widest point and fifty at its narrowest, the country has a population of less than 7 million. Togo’s economy relies on its agricultural products and phosphate mining. Tourism to Togo is also starting to grow, especially since the country’s return to democracy in 2007. Lome lies on Togo’s south-west coastline, next to the border with Ghana. Small for a capital city, Lome almost has the feeling of being a large provincial town. Nevertheless, as it possesses the only deepsea harbour in the region, it is a major West African port. Lome is known for its interesting markets. Le Marché aux Fétiches specialises in traditional medicine and voodoo paraphernalia, while the Artisan Market is where weavers, sculptors and other craftsmen can be seen at work. The largest market, the colourful Grand-Marché, sells everything from food and textiles, to household items. It could be said that Lome offers a somewhat less sophisticated hotel infrastructure than some of the neighbouring West African capitals. The better known hotels, such as the Mercure Lome Sarakawa, are mainly located in the city centre beach front, on Boulevard de la Marina. There are also a number of smaller, family run hotels that offer reasonable standards and good value for money. Lome enjoys a lively night scene, especially around the beach area, but travellers should be wary about walking alone at night.
UU Lome
Brussels Airlines’ new flights
Brussels Airlines’ is offering flights from Brussels to Ghana four times weekly. Cotonou, Ougadougou and Lome will each be served by two flights a week.
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air ways
LOT connects Brussels with the East! enclave located between Poland and Lithuania), Ukraine (Kiev, Lviv and Odessa), Slovakia (Bratislava) and Belarus (Minsk), but Armenia (with Yerevan) was added in July and Georgia (with Tbilisi) joined the list of destinations in September. But the newest releases are in a more ‘exotic’ aisle. As of 27 October and 2 November respectively, LOT Polish Airways will begin flying to Cairo and Damascus. The Egyptian and Syrian capitals will offer new possibilities for leisure travellers as well as interesting opportunities in cargo. Last but not least, as of 13 November, LOT will serve Hanoi in Vietnam, an otherwise underserved destination. This will
After Yerevan (Armenia) and Tbilisi (Georgia), LOT Polish Airlines continues its eastward expansion with several new routes out of Warsaw scheduled to begin in late October and early November. Routes to Cairo (Egypt) start on 27 October, Damascus (Syria) on 2 November and Hanoi (Vietnam) on 13 November, offering much of interest to LOT’s clientele departing from Brussels, explains General Manager Belux Krzysztof Loga-Sowinski.
S
ince its first flights in 1929, the Polish airline has had an impressive journey, with a notable sojourn in Brussels in 1949—that turned into a second home. Ever since then, flights between Warsaw the European capital have only intensified, with no fewer than 19 return trips per week at present, or three per day (though only two on the weekend). Despite the obvious tourist appeal of the two capitals, the traffic they generate is primarily business and institutional, and is expected to further increase when Poland takes over its first presidency of the European Union in July 2011. In addition to seven Polish destinations (Gdansk, Szczecin,
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be especially interesting to the sizeable Vietnamese community in Poland that dates back to the mass immigration of Vietnamese students under the Communist regime. Plus, as LOT is a member of Star Alliance, you will also enjoy a number of benefits in Brussels, such as access to the SAS and Brussels Airlines lounges and use of the Fast Lane for even smoother boarding. Now there is no reason to delay your visit to vibrant Warsaw and from there to explore the charms of Poland and the splendours of the East, to soak up traditional Vietnamese culture or immerse yourself in the treasures of Egyptian or Syrian antiquity…
Poznan, Wroclaw, Katowice, Rzeszow and Krakow), LOT’s hub, Warsaw, also serves as a gateway to the East from Brussels. Now not only does the airline connect to the Baltic countries (Riga, Vilnius and Tallinn), Russia (Moscow, St. Petersburg and Kaliningrad, in the Russian
Flight Schedule: From: To:
Flight:
Days:
Dep.: Arr.
Brussels
Cairo
LO234/115
1.3...
19.20
03.20+1
Brussels
Cairo
LO236/115
…..6.
09.55
03.20+1
Cairo
Brussels
LO116/233
.2.4..7
04.10
18.30
Brussels
Damascus
LO234/147
.2.4..7
19.20
03.10+1
Damascus
Brussels
LO148/233
1.3.5..
04.00
18.30
Brussels
Hanoi
LO234/085
1.3….
19.20
15.00+1
Brussels
Hanoi
LO236/085
…..6.
09.55
15.00+1
Hanoi
Brussels
LO086/235
1.3.5..
00.10
09.10
air ways
UIA resumes direct flights between Kiev and Brussels
Kiev in three hours On 27 September, Ukraine International Airlines (UIA) resumed direct flights between Brussels and Kiev after a three-month hiatus. To learn more, The Corporate Traveller met with Sergey Fomenko, Vice-President Sales & Marketing of the airline. The Corporate Traveller: Why did you reopen the Kiev-Brussels route after a three-month break?
S
ergey Fomenko: In 2008 and 2009, the general market situation in the airline industry forced companies to manage themselves very carefully. UIA did this, reorganising our network, optimising our fleet, etc. In fact, the route from Belgium to Ukraine was never closed, since we connected via Vienna thanks to a codesharUU Sergey Fomenko ing agreement with Austrian Airlines. But now we’ve returned to the original route, which is more convenient for our travellers with just three hours of flight time.
TCT: Some things are going to be different though…
SF: Yes. The new terminal at Kiev-Borispyl (KBP) is now finished and the new facilities are ready to welcome our passengers in improved, more comfortable conditions. More and more hotels have been targeting the city as well. Radisson SAS, Hyatt and Intercontinental have already moved in, and Marriott and Le Méridien may join the fray in the near future. This is making Kiev more attractive to foreign travellers, who are not only coming here on business but also making weekend trips. And if you made a Top 10 list of the safest cities in Europe, I’m sure Kiev would be on it!
TCT: UIA is an airline that has managed to remain profitable these past few years and even has some ambitious growth plans in the works.
SF: That’s true. We transported 1.5 million passengers in 2009 and are expecting to top the 2 mil-
lion passenger mark this year. A number of positive factors have UIA flights connecting Kiev and Brussels run five days a week (Mondaycontributed to Friday) on a Boeing 737. Flight time is approximately three hours. this growth. Of course, Brussels – Kiev PS902 19:50 – 23:45 there are the Kiev – Brussels PS901 19:50 – 18:45 new international routes Economy and Business classes available we opened More information on www.flyUIA.com up as well as the additional domestic and charter services we launched. Our company has also signed several partnership agreements with other airlines, which has enabled us to expand our services. But this growth is also due to the services we offer. UIA is a full service airline that offers two classes on every plane. We also take an active, flexible approach to our customers’ needs. Last but not least, our company works to develop business through a series of programmes that promote Ukraine as a business and tourist destination. These campaigns can be either independent or in cooperation with the Ukrainian tourism authorities. Ukraine International Airlines (UIA) was established in 1992. Its primary business is providing passenger and cargo transportation. UIA offers more European direct services from Ukraine than any other airline, operating 300 scheduled flights per week with onward connections across the globe. Airline’s passenger traffic is growing steadily by over 25% per annum. Ukraine International cooperates with airlines worldwide on the basis of 126 interline agreements. Through its partner network UIA serves over 3,000 destinations offering best same-day connections at competitive prices. Today Ukraine International has more than 40 representative offices in Ukraine and abroad; the commercial network covers 70 countries. Safety is the absolute priority for UIA. Ukraine International is the first airline in the CIS that was registered in the IOSA register – the single international quality certificate issued by special IATA program. This confirms the airline’s high level of aviation safety and fleet reliability. UIA’s Technical Division performs full technical maintenance on western aircraft types. According to Boeing’s statistics, UIA is the only airline in the CIS that provides full technical maintenance for its own fleet.
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air ways
Founded in 1945 under the name Transports Aériens Portugais, the Portuguese airline now simply known as TAP Portugal connects Brussels, as well as other European capitals, not just to Porto but also, and most significantly, to its hub in Lisbon. In addition to its many domestic destinations, the latter today represents a primary gateway to Africa and Brazil. And the airline is constantly adding to these destinations, as Araci Coimbra, General Manager for Belgium & Luxemburg, explained to us.
Lisbon, the gateway to Brazil and Africa “F
rom Brussels, as well as a daily flight to Porto, four daily flights (three in winter) will take you to Lisbon, TAP Portugal’s hub, the European corner of the Lisbon-Brazil-Africa triangle which represents the company’s core business. While we are still focused on Portugal and it still accounts for the majority of our services, were are committed to developing and promoting our African and, above all, Brazilian destinations”, confirms Araci Coimbra.
On course for Africa
“Departing from Lisbon, we fly to nine African countries: Algeria (Alger), Morocco (Marrakech and Casablanca), Cape Verde (Sal and Praia), Guinea-Bissau (Bissau), Senegal (Dakar), Sao Tomé & Principe (Sao Tomé), Angola (Luanda), Mozambique (Maputo) and South Africa (Johannesburg). Three key destinations leave from Brussels: Angola, Senegal and Cape Verde, the latter being a prestigious leisure destination.”
The no.1 foreign airline in Brazil
But the airline company’s real flagship is none other than Brazil, for obvious historical reasons. “As well as Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasilia, Recife, Belo Horizonte, Salvador, Fortaleza and Natal, since July we have become the first foreign company to operate from Europe to Viracopos airport, near Campinas, Brazil’s tenth richest city, and home to a number of major companies
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specialising in IT, petrochemicals, oil refineries, automobiles, research centres and universities. This expansion of our routes to Brazil is explained by the real economic boom the country is currently experiencing, and the fact that it is now such an important destination for business as well as leisure”, concludes Araci Coimbra.
Incentive trips
This combination of leisure and business in fact characterises a large number of the destinations served by the airline, whether in Portugal, Africa or Brazil. TAP Portugal thus offers one of the widest and most attractive ranges in terms of incentive trips, both for groups and individuals. After all, as well as the cities and suburbs of Lisbon and Porto, who has not dream of admiring the splendours of the Algarve, soaking up the sun on the islands of the Azores, enjoying the exotic delights of Africa, and especially discovering the magnificent beaches, colourful carnivals, enchanting landscapes and cultural riches of Brazil? Don’t dream any longer, visit our website now at www.flytap.com.
air ways
Loyalty Programme Rewards Small-to-Medium Sized Business
SAS Credits Fill a Market Niche SAS Group Airlines has long been well known for its innovative character, something that is unique to the Scandinavian sense of entrepreneurship. This time, they are targeting the countless smaller businesses that only fly occasionally but still want to take advantage of “loyalty privileges.” SAS Credits fulfil this desire.
S
AS Credits are oriented towards companies that do not yet have an existing contract with SAS Group Airlines. The programme is primarily geared towards small and medium-sized businesses that only book a limited number of flights per year and are too small to enter into a corporate contract. “These companies still form a very important group, and they have just as much right to good service as do the big players. So this is a way in which we are communicating with a group that we still do not yet know today,” explains Benelux Sales Manager Wim Melis.
Check Your Account
“SAS Credits received are awarded to a special account. By logging in to the SAS corporate website, you can see how many credits you have accumulated in your account. When you reach a certain status, you can pay for future tickets with these SAS Credits. These new flights can be booked in any class of ticket, including Economy class.” A very interesting fact is that the new point-saving system is valid for all flights with SAS Group Airlines; SAS, Widerøe en Blue 1. Furthermore, participants enjoy reductions of 2, 4 or 6 per
Belöning. Or reward as you say in English. Reward your company by earning SAS Credits and redeem them for free flights**.
cent, respectively, depending upon which class of service they are flying in. Accumulated SAS Credits can be used to book travel with SAS and their partners. The Corporate SAS Credits offer
a number of advantages. “Companies receive credits and at the same time, travellers receive EuroBonus Points. In addition, there is no limit on the number of Credits that a company can save or spend, and they are valid for three years. When a company reaches the point where they have 500 SAS Credits, they can use them to book a flight through SAS points of sale,” says Melis.
Service & Simplicity
This new service fits perfectly within the Service & Simplicity philosophy of SAS Group Airlines, just like their various mobile services and Fast Track security. “Those who travel with us in Economy Extra or Business
Class can take advantage of a separate security entrance that goes much faster,” explains Wim. “We are also one of the few airlines that offer limousine service to our long-distance business clients. These are all initiatives that place an extra emphasis on our innovative character.”
its! Crefod SAS REE F r up now Sign
SAS Credits Benefits Immediate 2% discount on every ticket* All SAS Group fl ights – SAS, Blue1 and Widerøe All classes – Business, Economy Extra and Economy All booking channels – fl ysas.be/sascredits or via your travel agent SAS Credits and EuroBonus points at the same time Easy online registration and administration
Copenhagen Stockholm Oslo Helsinki and more than 60 other Scandinavian destinations.*** flysas.be/sascredits ***Lowest booking classes O, T, L and K excluded. ***Minimum 500 SAS Credits needed to redeem first reward. ***Including SAS code share, Blue1 and Widerøe destinations.
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destinations
Immo Portugal The unspoiled natural beauty is reason enough to buy a second home on the Portuguese Costa de Prata, ‘the Silver Coast.’ This area has remained practically undiscovered by the masses, which means prices are still relatively low. Immo Portugal, the Belgian real estate company, specialises in real estate opportunities in this promising area, but also knows its way around Algarve as well as the larger Portuguese cities. The Corporate Traveller spoke with An-Sofie De Vos and David Quasten, managers of Immo Portugal. UU Felicia: 199.000€ incl VAT
I
mmo Portugal started out with real estate in Belgium, primarily on the Belgian coast. Eventually, it began to sell properties in Portugal and in the meantime, has fully specialised itself there. “In fact, we only deal with Portugal now,” says David Quasten at Immo Portugal. “We took a conscious step in our specialisation. A lot of brokers offer all sorts of countries and products, but then they’re not really in the know about all of it. We know the legal and tax provisions in Portugal through and through, which means that we are perfectly able to accompany our clients through the buying process. In addition, with Portugal you are investing in a country of the European Union, which makes for a much more secure guarantee in a legal sense. We can also help clients with potential rental use of the property, and we have good contacts with the rental agencies. Since such support is so important, we have someone present in Portugal the whole year round.”
A Second Home in Portugal A Good Investment
property values are very high, about at their ceiling,” explains An-Sofie De Vos. “In Costa de Prata (the Silver Coast) it’s still at the early stages and it is still affordable for everyone. Where you might pay 250,000 euros for an apartment in Algarve, on the Silver Coast you can get a place with an ocean view for between 100,000 and 150,000 euros. It is now the right moment to invest in this area, because the property values are increasing every year.”
Portugal is not just a destination for a dream vacation; it is also an outstanding country in which to invest. That is why Immo Portugal is very active in the Silver Coast area, in addition to the Algarve region. “In the Algarve,
The Silver Coast
The choice for Portugal was not accidental. It is a love that came about gradually. “I’ve been going to Portugal for holidays myself for fifteen years,” says Quasten. “It’s a beautiful country with beautiful coasts. Everyone talks about Spain or France all the time. But Portugal should not be overlooked. It’s only a 2 1/2 hour flight, and has nice cities like Porto, Coimbra, and Lisbon, and lovely areas like Algarve and the Silver Coast.”
The Silver Coast runs from Espinho in the north to Ericeira in the south. A healthy, mild climate is prevalent throughout the year, with an abundance of sunshine. It is a diverse area with cliffs,
beaches, natural beauty and picturesque villages. Moreover, the Silver Coast lies less than one hour’s ride from the capital of Lisbon, which makes it easily and quickly accessible from any large airport in Europe. The Portuguese authorities have also recognised the appeal of the Silver Coast. Neither costs nor effort and being spared to ensure that this western coast is just as built up as the Algarve. “This area is really subsidised,” says De Vos. “In Porto das Barcas, a new marina is being built and the beach at Areia Branca was completely redone with subsidies they had received. The seaside town got a very nice boardwalk and a lot of new restaurants opened. On top of that, there are already plans to build no less than 12 new golf courses in the Silver Coast area! It’s really a beautiful and ideal investment area. The combination of unspoiled nature with the same facilities that a big city like Lisbon offers makes this area irresistible.”
IMMO PORTUGAL Kribbestraat 3 2000 Antwerp GSM BE: 0478 33 43 30 GSM PT: 00351 912 963 961 www.immoportugal.be
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destinations
Perched on seven hills, on the western tip of Europe, is Lisbon, the Portuguese capital. Here the sun shines all year round, turning the city’s rich mosaic of architecture into a mirror of colour. Voted Best European City Break in the 2010 World Travel Awards, the city is brimming with attractions for both business travellers and tourists.
Lisbon
a traveller’s guide O
ver the centuries Lisbon has survived numerous occupations. The Romans, the Moors, the Crusaders and Napoleon’s armies have all left their traces on the city. The 16th century was the golden age of Lisbon – the era of the great Portuguese explorers, when the city became a crossroads for commerce between Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. The Lisbon of today has managed to maintain this fascinating heritage, while becoming one of Europe’s largest container ports and one of its most important financial centres.
UU Rossio square
Although not a large city, Lisbon is divided into districts. Baixa, the city centre, runs from the Praça Marques de Pombai, down the long Avenue da Liberdade to the waterfront Praça do Comércio, with its arcade-fronted buildings and triumphal arch. The Avenue da Liberdade is the city’s main artery and is bordered with designer boutiques, restaurants
and hotels. Just off the Avenue da Liberdade, Baixa’s magnificent Praça Don Pedro IV, known as Rossio square, is one of Lisbon’s most popular meeting points. As well as monuments such as the Palace of Independence, Rossio is home to numerous cafés some of which have become landmarks in their own right. Amongst the most iconic are Café Nicola and the Pasteraia Suiça (the Swiss Pastry Shop), both former haunts of artists, poets and celebrities. Barely changed since the beginning of the UU Kais restaurant 1900s, Rossio’s cafés enjoy views over the vast square’s bronze fountains and 18th century buildings. Boutique hotels, such as the Internacional Design Hotel, can also be found around Rossio and are a good central point for exploring the city.
Hotels
Lisbon counts over sixty 4 and 5 star hotels, several of which are ranked on ‘world best hotel’ listings. Most of Lisbon’s hotels are located in the city centre, within walking distance of public trans-
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destinations
systems and solar panels. Even our meeting rooms include digital paperless flip charts. Technology is also about making our guests’ lives easier. We have free 100 megabyte wifi access throughout the hotel and bedrooms are equipped with media hubs which means that you can watch your own presentations or films on your room’s LCD screen.”
Cultural highlights and nightlife
UU one of Chiado’s cafés
For those more interested in going back in time, neighbouring Alfama and Castello districts are testaments to the city’s medieval legacies from the Moors and the Crusaders. This hillside area, with its labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets and picturesque whitewashed houses, is scattered with bars, restaurants and historical sites. Crowning the hill, overlooking the whole of the city is the Castle of Saint George (São Jorge) which dates back to the 12th century.
port. A recent addition is the Hotel Altis Avenida which opened in March this year. The stylish Altis Avenida is a 5 star property with a 1940’s flavour. The hotel features an open air rooftop restaurant and bar. Another new arrival in Lisbon’s centre, the Hotel Inspira Santa Marta, opened its doors in May. The Inspira aims to offer a completely different experience to guests and has been entirely designed based on Feng Shui principles. “What we have tried to create here is an urban oasis for business and leisure travellers” explained manager Nicolas Roucos. “Technology, sustainability and relaxation are all integral to this urban lifestyle. We are the only four star hotel in Lisbon with a spa and to make things easier for guests we offer fully inclusive packages, so when you check out, things like our hotel mini-bar, wifi and coffee are all included in the price. In keeping with our philosophy we have environmentally sustainable systems in place throughout the hotel - from sourcing locally produced and sustainable supplies, to energy saving
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Downturn Chiado and Bairro Alto are the cultural hubs of Lisbon. Chiado is a lively district, perfect for a leisurely stroll and exploring the area’s colourful cafés, intriguing bookstores, theatres, art galleries, museums and, of course, restaurants. The Tágide restaurant, located on the hillside in the centre of Chiado, serves traditional Portuguese specialities with a great view overlooking the castle and the river. A suitable venue for business lunches and dinners, it offers a relaxing atmosphere and friendly service – but reservations are recommended. The Bairro Alto district is the pulse of Lisbon’s ‘trend’ culture and its nightlife. In the daytime its designer shops attract fashionistas, before its bars and clubs spring to life in the evening. This is one of the best places in Lisbon to enjoy traditional Portuguese ‘fado’ guitar music. Nearby, on the Rua da
UU Belém’s Jeronimos monastery
“Sunny weather nearly all year round and good value for money with competitive accommodation rates are definitely two of our strongest points. Then of course, there are our people. Lisbon and Portugal as a whole, are known for offering visitors a warm, friendly welcome. If I had to describe Lisbon in two words it would be a city resort. Where else can you find a European capital with sandy beaches just twenty minutes away from a cobble-stoned city centre?”
UU conference infrastructures at Nations Park Cintura, are a number of interesting dockside warehouses converted into restaurants, bars and nightclubs. For a modern take on Portuguese cuisine, including a range of fish delicacies, try the Kais Restaurant. The Kais is a former warehouse which has been transformed into an industrial-chic restaurant where bare red brick walls and huge factory windows have been combined with ancient olive trees and candlelight to create an impressive setting. The Kais has a terrace facing the river where food is served on summer evenings.
Belém and Nations Park
Bordering the city centre, Belém is a key district for visitors and home to Portugal’s most popular museum, the National Coach Museum. Located in the former Royal Stables, it showcases the largest collection of royal coaches and carriages in the world. With the collection still growing, the museum will be moving to larger facilities in 2012. Belém is rich in gardens, beautiful buildings and museums, such as the UNESCO heritage sites of Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery. It is from the 16th century Tower of Belém, part of the city’s ancient defences at the mouth of the river Tagus, that great Portuguese explorers such as Vasco da Gama, set off on their voyages of discovery across the globe. Just nearby is the Jerónimos Monastery, another of Lisbon’s monuments from the same era. The monastery houses the Maritime Museum, the National Archaeological Museum and the tomb of Vasco da Gama. Adjacent to the monastery is the Belém Cultural Centre, a modern construction in limestone that was especially designed to blend in with its historical surroundings. Although its primary vocation is as a performing
arts centre, the Belém Cultural Centre also offers conference facilities, auditoriums, breakout rooms and outside eating areas for dining by the river. Another major venue, the Lisbon Congress Centre, is situated in the nearby Junqueira district. The Congress centre offers over 15,000 square metres of space for conferences, meetings and exhibitions, as well as a river-view restaurant. On the outskirts of Lisbon, the Nations Park district with its riverside gardens, is where the largest infrastructures for meetings, conventions and events can be found. These include the Lisbon Oceanarium (which is the second largest in the world) and the Atlantico Pavillion. The Atlantico’s two halls and business centre offer auditoriums, an arena, various halls and meeting rooms suitable for a variety of events, from meetZZ the city’s ings and conventions, to large 100 year old sports gatherings. The Nations tram system is Park’s convention infrastructure still in use is completed by a number of business hotels in the area.
Top of visitor polls
Lisbon has proved itself a favourite in recent consumer and industry voted travel awards. The recently announced 2010 World Travel Awards elected Lisbon as the Best European City Break destination for the second year in a row. “There are plenty of reasons that make Lisbon attractive for visitors” explained Alexandra Baltazar manager of the Lisbon Convention Bureau.
Getting around Lisbon The Portugese capital is served by Lisbon International Airport, 7 kilometres from the city centre. Regular flights to key European cities are offered by Portuguese national airline TAP Portugal, as well as a number of other carriers. There is a high speed rail service to the main cities in Portugal, with further connections to Spain due for completion in 2013. Around the city, public transportation includes the metro, buses and Lisbon’s tramway system, built just over a hundred years ago but still very much in use in the city. To see the city and its monuments from another perspective, there are a number of possibilities for boat tours along the river Tagus, ranging from speed boat adventures, to sunset dinner cruises.
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destinations
Ljubljana is a small, but stylish city of music, history and gastronomy, offering a blend of old charm and new cool. Delightfully compact, Slovenia’s capital city makes running event programmes a pleasure, as almost everything is within walking distance – from conference centres and hotels, to unique venues and gastronomic restaurants.
L
jubljana offers one of the best preserved Baroque quarters in Central Europe, together with younger Art Nouveau buildings and the eclectic architecture of Joze Plecnik, who left an indelible mark on the 20th century image of Ljubljana. In their free time, delegates can explore the city’s narrow streets and the many bridges that criss-cross the Ljubljanica River, which snakes through the city and is lined with restaurants and fashionable bars. The city boasts a lively cultural agenda, a relaxing cafe-society atmosphere and lots of interesting shopping, from antiques to art galleries. Ljubljana’s traditional cuisine is a cherished heritage and the city centre offers a good selection of excellent restaurants.
Conference and meeting facilities
Ljubljana has a well structured meetings and conference offer, including Slovenia’s two largest venues, the GR Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre and Cankarjev dom Cultural and Congress Centre (maximum plenary seating for 2,200 and 2,000 delegates, respectively). Besides these, Ljubljana has several convention and meeting hotels, in the 3 to 5 star categories, ranging from historic to modern design. The largest of these is the Grand Hotel Union, whose tradition goes back to 1905, which has a maximum plenary seating capacity for 800 delegates. Over the last few years, an ongoing investment cycle has been running to refurbish or upgrade the two largest venues, as well as the other meeting and hotel infrastructures, and practically all of the business-oriented hotels have undergone some form of renovation or redesign.
New boutique hotels in Ljubljana’s Old Town
The Old Town quarter, clustered at the foot of the Castle Hill and alongside the Ljubljanica River, has recently seen the development of small boutique hotels housed in historic buildings. Two of the most recent arrivals are the Allegro and the Lesar Hotel Angel. Both offer spacious and stylish accommodation in the old city centre, with between 11 and 16 guest rooms and suites. They are equipped with small function rooms for busi-
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Ljubljana
A stylish destination for meetings and incentives ness meetings, lounge areas and private gardens, where cocktail receptions can be organised. Just opened, is the exclusive Antiq Palace Hotel which offers 13 chic suites and residential apartments, meeting rooms and an elegant spa, under the roof of a downtown 16th century building, Another boutique property, the Cubo Hotel, is scheduled for opening early 2011, after complete refurbishments. Less than 5 minutes walking distance from the Cankarjev dom Cultural and Congress Centre, the hotel will boast gourmet cuisine with one of the most renowned restaurants in Ljubljana, The Cubo.
Events and incentives
One of Ljubljana’s attractive features for MICE organisers, is its rich offering of special event venues. These include a number of museums and galleries, and Ljubljana’s medieval castle. The castle dominates the city’s skyline and offers flexible function areas both inside and out, plus a viewing tower. Ljubljana is also an excellent starting point for incentive programmes, whether focusing on the city itself, or for exploring Slovenia’s other varied regions. An array of suggestions is presented in the “Ljubljana Tips for Incentives” brochure which, together with a host of destination and meetings-related data, can be found at www.visitljubljana.si/meetings
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destinations
Conventa 2011
The MICE summit for South East Europe Conventa, South East Europe’s leading exhibition for meetings, event and incentive travel professionals, will open the doors of its third edition at Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre on January 19 2011. Over its two days, this focused business to business event will showcase over 100 destinations, venues, services and suppliers from the very best that the region has to offer.
“T
here is so much in South East Europe for meetings and events organisers, and our mission is to share this wealth of opportunities” said Miha Kovacic of the Slovenian Convention Bureau and Director of Conventa. “Event organisers are not necessarily familiar with all of the countries of our region. Even as far as Slovenia is concerned, although Ljubljana enjoys a good reputation with MICE professionals, we have much more than just this one ‘brand’. This is why we have taken the initiative to create Conventa, to present these opportunities to the rest of Europe.” “In Slovenia we have been organising conventions for almost 30 years, so we have a well established infrastructure of PCO’s, convention centres, venues and DMCs. We have large convention venues in Ljubljana of course, but also in other Slovenian cities such as Maribor, Novo Mesto and Gorica. But besides these larger venues, we have a rich variety of events infrastructures throughout the country, with four distinctive MICE products which would be difficult to find elsewhere. “ “The first of these is Slovenia’s alpine region, with its landmarks such as the beautiful town of Bled. Bled has its own convention centre, health resort and a range of sporting facilities in the midst of wonderful mountain scenery. Kranjska Gora, which is deeper into the Alpine region, is where the annual Slovenian skiing championships are
held. Kranjska Gora has fantastic winter conditions for every kind of incentive activity combined with snow in the winter, and for other outdoor mountain activities the rest of the year. Slovenia’s coastal region, with its long warm summer, is our second product. A good example here is Portoroz, a major meetings centre with several convention hotels. It also has the advantage of being just one and a half hour’s drive from Ljubljana airport. Then we have the Karst region, between Ljubljana and the coast, which is famous for its underground caves and great for teambuilding activities. The caves at Postojna are the biggest tourist attraction in Slovenia. Our fourth major meetings product is our wellness resorts. Slovenia’s thermal springs and spas have been a tradition for centuries. Some of these spas have meeting facilities and they are becoming more and more popular with events organisers.” “These are just some examples of Slovenia’s MICE products, but we will be showcasing many more at Conventa, with exhibitors from Croatia, Montenegro, Serbia, Bosnia, Herzegowina, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Romania and Albania. 200 carefully selected hosted buyers will have the opportunity to meet with these exhibitors, through pre-scheduled one to one meetings, educational sessions and networking events. Following the show, the hosted buyers will be able to participate in organised fam trips throughout the region.” Conventa is organised by the Slovenian Convention Bureau, in partnership with the Slovenian Tourist Board, Ljubljana Tourism, Ljubljana Exhibition & Convention Centre, Reed Exhibitions – EIBTM, MPI – Meetings Professionals International and ICCA. For more information about Conventa visit www.conventa.info
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destinations
Adria Airways
Gateway to Slovenia and Eastern Europe Slovenia’s national air carrier, Adria Airways, will soon be celebrating its 50th year in the air. Since its change of focus to become a business airline in the 1980’s, Adria Airways now offers more than twenty direct routes to commercial capitals throughout Europe from its hub in Ljubljana. Adria’s Bertrand Vanden Broeck explained the airline’s appeal to corporate travellers and the significance of its entry into the Star Alliance group of airlines.
Business travel
“O
ur strategy is very centred towards the corporate travel sector” said Vanden Broeck. “Not many airlines can say that over 80% of their passengers are travelling for business, but that is the case with us. Since Slovenia joined the European Union, and in fact ever since we started discussions to join the EU, Slovenia has been attracting a lot of overseas investments. We now offer 220 scheduled flights each week, with routes to business cities across the length and breadth of Europe. Part of our strategy has been to increase frequencies on these key business routes, as corporate travellers really need more choice. As such, we now offer two daily flights to Paris, nine weekly flights to Amsterdam and two daily flights to Brussels.”
“Brussels is our most important route for business passengers, so we have further reinforced our services, not just in the air but on the ground. Business class passengers at Brussels have access to a fast lane which makes the whole check-in and security procedure twice as fast, and we open the check-in four hours before departure so travellers can spend more time in the lounge if they wish. All our passengers from Brussels with a Miles&More Gold loyalty card can use the SAS lounge, which a Star Alliance Gold Lounge. We have also contracted this same lounge for our business class passengers.” “We have been a regional partner of Star Alliance since 2004, and in January 2010 we became a fully fledged member.
Meeting the standards required to join the alliance is like having a quality certificate which confirms our level of service and commitment to customer satisfaction. As an example, we have increased our capacity and upgraded our fleet, with lie flat seats for all business class passengers. Despite the change in travel policy for many companies, our business class is still popular as it offers good value for money. If you book in advance, a non-flexible business class ticket can be obtained for the same price as a regular economy ticket.”
has reflected this with the connecting flights it offers. “Our schedule is organised so that most of our flights from Western Europe arrive in Slovenia at around 11am, with convenient onward transfers to cities such as Moscow, Pristina, Sarajevo, Skopje and Tirana” said Vanden Broeck. “In fact everything about our hub airport, Joze Pucnik, is convenient. It is just a 15 minute drive from the centre of Ljubljana and, as it is small, check-in and boarding are fast. You could even finish a meeting in Ljubljana at 5pm and been on a flight home at 6pm.”
Convenient Gateway to Eastern Europe and the Balkans
Adria Airways flies to Amsterdam, Brussels, Copenhagen, Frankfurt, Istanbul, Kiev, London, Moscow, Munich, Paris, Podgorica, Pristina, Sarajevo, Skopje, Stockholm, Tirana, Warsaw, Vienna and Zurich throughout the year, with additional destinations in the summer.
Slovenia is seen as a gateway into Eastern Europe and the Balkans, and Adria Airways
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Destinations
Few destinations can boast such a variety of seasons as Quebec. And Quebec offers just as many different faces to corporate travellers and congress delegates - an effervescent spring, an exalting summer, a spectacular autumn and an amazing winter. It has to be seen to be believed!
© Ministère du Tourisme du Québec / Jean-François Bergeron/Enviro Foto
Quebec: a symphony of seasons and emotions Montreal, a concentration of contrasts
M
ontreal is a metropolis that should not be missed before you set out to discover Quebec and unveil this corner of Europe in America. Montreal is the world’s second largest French-speaking city after Paris. It is also the most populated island in Quebec, as it lies in the middle of the Saint Lawrence river. Montreal is the art of living throughout all the seasons. It is a city which sets itself apart from its North American neighbours by its: • multiculturalism, a convergence of 80 different ethnic groups • avant-gardism, recognised as a UNESCO City of Design since 2006 • underground network of 33 km – a city under the city where one can travel from hotels to metro stations, from museums to shops and from cinemas to restaurants • title of gastronomic and entertainment capital • avalanche of festivals and events which invade the squares and streets of the city centre: jazz, music, comedy, dance and theatre • hotel infrastructure
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The delights of Quebec
The city of Quebec has an eloquent past and it is by walking along its narrow, meandering streets that visitors will discover one of the most beautiful human adventures of the 17th century, that of New France. Cradle of the French civilisation in North America, the city is divided into two parts – the first, called Le Cap Diamant, perched on the headland, and the second which follows the form of the Saint Lawrence river. In the Petit-Champlain district, you can enjoy browsing on the oldest shopping streets in the New World. It was in 1985 that Old Quebec, a jewel in a green setting, joined the privileged circle of UNESCO world heritage sites. The city has jealously retained its distinctive personality throughout the centuries. In 2008, following the 400th anniversary of its founding, the city saw its popularity rise as a destination for hosting international events. More and more organisers of business events, conventions and incentives are choosing the city. Quebec is also positioning itself as the romantic capital of North America. Just some of the many good reasons to visit Quebec.
© Ministère du Tourisme du Québec / Yves Tessier
The Boreal Forest, a sumptuous feast
Despite the size of the territory of Quebec (3 times larger than France, 50 times larger than Belgium), one of the major advantages of Montreal and Quebec is the proximity and accessibility of wide open spaces. In less than one hour you can find a total change of scenery! The boreal forest stretches out to the east, the west, the north and the south. In the heart of the forest there are pourvoiries, or forest inns, which open their doors to groups of travellers for seminars, meetings and incentives. This type of accommodation, unique to Quebec, is a great success with visitors as it allows them to experience a real synergy with their natural surroundings. The tourist regions of Laurentides, Outaouais, Lanaudière and Mauricie offer a vast range of pourvoiries or forest inns, all of which include a warm Quebecan welcome. Often located beside lakes or rivers,
they can be reached by road or by seaplane – or hydraski plane in the winter. Throughout the spring, summer, autumn and winter, the mountains, lakes and parks become vast playgrounds, ideal for sporting activities. Spring, summer, autumn: rafting, canoes, kayaks, mountain bikes, rambling, orientation and forest survival, nature watching, seaplane flights, fishing and quad-bikes. Winter: husky sleds, snowmobiles, igloo construction, ice fishing, alpine and cross country skiing, frozen waterfall climbing, raquet snow shoes, ice hotel and hydraski flights.
© Ministère du Tourisme du Québec / Linda Turgeon
Practical information: www.bonjourquebec.com/motivation Destination Quebec 3, rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré - 75008 Paris Tél: 33 01 53 30 77 64 Contact: André Martel
Destinations
The natural choice to North America Since June, Air Canada has been operating a nonstop connection between Brussels and Montreal. In addition, customers who travel on this route have the opportunity to travel directly to several important destinations in Canada and the United States. For those wanting to travel to North America, this is a new and viable option - for both business and leisure travel.
Executive First Class
Yet Air Canada’s showpiece is undoubtedly its Executive First Class. This class of service replaces the traditional Business Class and First Class. “Our Executive First Class is sold at Business Class fares, but offers the services of First Class. This class is com-
T
he launch of the new flight connection has been a success from the start. “Over the summer months, we immediately saw an average load factor of 96%,” explains Gina Verkouter of Air Canada. “We also maintained a high load factor in September. From October 29 onwards, we will switch over to four flights per week: on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, each departing Brussels at 10:45 AM. The outbound flight is a day flight that arrives at 12:25 local time. The flight back is a night flight that lands in Brussels at 8:40 in the morning. If you’re a business traveller, you’ll be fresh and ready to go to work right away.”
The most spacious Economy Class
Particular to Air Canada is the distinction between two classes of service: the Economy Class and the Executive First Class. “Air Canada is known as the North American airline with the largest amount of leg room in Economy Class,” explains Verkouter. “Larger passengers can also enjoy amply comfortable seats in Economy Class. Additionally, each
as possible for its travellers. “At the airport, we operate four check-in counters, one of which is exclusively for its Executive First Class travellers. But passengers can also check in online, up to 24 hours before departure. The only thing left to do after that is bringing your bags to the drop-off counter. Our Executive First Class travellers can also make use of the Brussels Airlines Lounge, which is shared by Star Alliance members. This is due to the fact that Air Canada is one of the five founding members of the Star Alliance. In addition, since last November, we have been engaged in a joint venture with Lufthansa, Continental and United Airlines for all trans-Atlantic flights between Europe and North America. In concrete terms, this means that our booking classes and fares are coordinated with each other.”
The solution for North America passenger can reserve his or her seat assignment beforehand for free, with the exception of seats by the emergency exits (which can be reserved beforehand with the travel agent), for which a small fee is added. What’s more, each passenger in Economy Class has his or her own personal entertainment system. All passengers can watch the program of their choice whenever they want to, in their own language.”
pletely made up of separate suites, in other words small cabins that are laid out in a herringbone pattern. You sit at an incline, which allows the 180-degree beds to lie flat. Thus you have a real bed on board, which is ideal for the business traveller who wants to arrive at his destination well-rested.”
Services on the ground
On the ground, Air Canada tries to make things as comfortable
However, Air Canada is not just offering flights to Montreal. From this gateway, you can fly to just about every corner of North America. “Those who travel to North America usually visit more than one city. Air Canada offers a further 58 destinations in Canada and 60 more destinations in the United States. Thus, Air Canada is the ideal solution to travel to and within North America. That is our strongest advantage, for corporate as well as leisure travellers,” concludes Ms. Verkouter.
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Destinations
UU Rockox
Antwerp, the largest city in Flanders, is known as the business capital of the Low Countries. Its port is Europe’s second largest, through which nearly 110 million tons of merchandise pass every year. Antwerp is also the nerve centre of the world’s diamond market and an important banking hub. Thus a popular misconception has arisen – that Antwerp is purely an industrial city. This could hardly be further from the truth. Let’s take a closer look at the cultural side of Antwerp, the European cradle of the renaissance, leading centre for the arts, and fun destination for shopping and gastronomy. VV Plantin-Moretus publishing house
Central station, Astridplein and Diamonds!
T
he first thing many travellersto Antwerp see, is the cathedral-like structure of its Central train station. Leopold II, who had the station rebuilt in 1898, certainly succeeded in his ambition of impressing visitors arriving at city. The station opens on one side to the Koningin Astridplein, one of city’s largest city squares. You may know Astridplein for its business hotels, but it is also home to Antwerp’s zoo – not what one would expect to find in a busy city centre. One of the oldest zoos in the world, it’s charming 19th century gardens are a tranquil oasis of calm, and well worth visiting if you have time on your way back to the station. Just nearby is Antwerp’s diamond district which boasts four of the world’s 25 diamond exchanges. Diamond trading and cutting has been integral to Antwerp life for over 500 years and around sixty percent of all diamonds are traded here. Even if you are not interested in buying, the Diamond Museum on Astridplein shows the whole production process, from mining to cutting. As well as its permanent collections, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions.
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On show until the end of 2010, is the Treasures of Napoleon exhibition. The ‘little corporal’ was well known for using jewellery to create political and diplomatic alliances and regularly offered leaders gifts of diamonds.
Historical Antwerp
Antwerp
With its strategic importance for international trading and finance, Antwerp was one of the richest cities in Europe during the renaissance period. The arts, science and philosophy all flourished here and the city became a meeting point not only for great artists but great minds, such as the Calvinists Erasmus and Thomas More. Antwerp is seen by many as the birthplace of the religious reformation. This eventually led to a religious revolt and the closing of Antwerp’s port for nearly 200 years, until the arrival of Napoleon. Even during the closure of the Scheldt, Antwerp continued to prosper culturally, with painters such as Rubens, Van Dyck and Jordaens. Antwerp has a rich offering of museums, including a number of beautifully restored mansions dating from its golden era, each treasure houses of the city’s artistic and cultural heritage. Wealthy Antwerpers liked to display their prosperity, and owning collections of fine art
worth getting to know better
and furniture was also seen as a sign of intellectual prowess. If you only have time to visit three museums but would like to get a taste for this heritage, then top of your agenda should be the Rubens House, Plantin-Moretus and the Rockox House – the homes of three of Antwerp’s most influential citizens.
Rubens House Museum
Peter Paul Rubens acquired a house in Antwerp’s Wapper in 1610, transforming it into a luxurious palazzo where he lived until his death in 1640. Now a museum, Rubens House gives visitors not only the opportunity to admire his paintings, but also to learn more about Rubens the scholar, architect, diplomat, collector and family man. The museum includes the artist’s studio, exhibition room and gardens.
Plantin-Moretus Museum
No less a key figure in Antwerp’s history was Christophe Plantin. A bookbinder, he came to Antwerp in 1550 and within five years founded the world’s first industrial printing works, under the name of the Golden Compass. Now a museum, his home and printing works at 22 Vrijdagmarkt were a meeting point for intellectuals, who gathered to discuss and challenge the dogma of established religion. The publishing house has been maintained exactly in its originally state, with printing presses and typesetting equipment still in working order. The museum gives a fascinating glimpse of the birth of publishing, as if the original workers had just stepped out of the room. A UNESCO heritage site, the house contains an important collection of art and furnishings, as well as an extensive library.
The Rockox House
Burgomaster, town benefactor and patron of the arts, Nicolas Rockox commissioned several works from his friend Rubens and other major painters of his time. He also acted as a diplomat, defending Antwerp’s interests throughout Europe. His mansion at 10 Keizerstraat is now one of Antwerp’s most fascinating museums, complete with 17th century baroque furniture, silverware, tapestries and paintings, as would have been found in one of Antwerp’s wealthiest homes.
Grote Markt and the Antwerp ‘Hand’
Antwerp’s Grote Markt, or main square, is the site of the City Hall, built at the height of the city’s golden era. The square is lined with guildhalls, with golden statues to their various patron saints on their gables. One of the former guilds, at number 13 Grote Markt, now houses the Antwerp tourism offices. The square’s bronze statue represents Brabo, a legendary hero of Antwerp, who cut off the hand of a malignant giant and threw it into the Scheldt. This is how, the legend tells, that the name of Antwerp came about, deriv-
UU Plantin-Moretus ing from ‘Hantwerpen’ or ‘hand throwing’. Although the story is obviously complete fiction, the hand has become one of symbols of Antwerp, with chocolate hands and biscuits being typical local souvenirs. Just off Grote Markt, the area around Oude Koornmarkt has an abundance of restaurants and cafés. Here the restaurants on Vlaeykensgang, a narrow winding alley, are particularly charming with their small outside terraces the place to listen to the nearby cathedral’s carillon concerts.
UU one of Vlaeykensgaang’s restaurants
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ANTWERP AIRPORT Presentation
Flights
» OFFICIAL NAME OF THE AIRPORT:
» 3 MOST IMPORTANT DESTINATIONS SERVED BY REGULAR FLIGHTS:
ANTWERP AIRPORT
» COMPLETE ADDRESS: Luchthavenlei z/n 2100 Antwerpen
» WEBSITE:
To London City with City Jet Frequency: 26 flights / week To Manchester with City Jet Frequency: 16 flights / week
» PRIVATE JET COMPANIES HAVING THEIR HUB ON YOUR AIRPORT: FLYINGGROUP ASL Abelag
www.antwerpairport.be
» DESCRIPTION OF THE AIRPORT AND MAIN ASSETS: Save time at Antwerp Airport: easy access, free parking, and check-in up to 20 minutes prior to departure.
» LOCATION: 50 km from Brussels 5 km from Antwerp 65 km from Ghent 160 km from Amsterdam 100 km from Rotterdam 90 km from Eindhoven
» ACCESSIBILITY: 5 km from the R1, exit No. 3 5 km from the E34, exit No. 18 5 km from the E19, exit No. 5a or 6 Nearest train station: Antwerpen-Berchem
Services » BUSINESS FACILITIES (FOR CORPORATE TRAVELLERS): Free wireless Internet: No > paying service Business Lounges: • Number: 1 • Upon invitation by the airline, tour operator or travel agent, or to be booked online at www.cityjet.com Check-in: 20 minutes before departure Internet check-in: Yes Meeting facilities: • Number of meeting rooms: 4 • Capacity of the meeting rooms: From 6 to 50 • Reservation through: +32-3-285.65.13 Car rental desks: Hertz, Avis Airport Shops open from 6.30 a.m. to 17.30 p.m.
Destinations
docks were originally built as a naval base by Napoleon who compared the River Scheldt to a gun barrel, aiming at the heart of his worst enemy – the British. Eilanje’s warehouses have now been transformed, in a similar style to London’s Docklands, into lofts, marinas and restaurants. Soon the area will see the addition of an exciting new, interactive museum, the MAS, which will tell the story of the river, the port, the city and its people throughout the ages.
UU Zoo gardens Notre Dame Cathedral dominates the city with its 123 metre spire and is the largest gothic building in Belgium. But Antwerp also has four magnificent gothic churches, each a work of art in itself. Perhaps the most striking of them all is St Paul’s church, which dates back to 1571 and was originally part of a Dominican cloister. Inside are over 50 paintings including works by Rubens and Van Dyck, with intricate 16th century wood carvings throughout, rich in renaissance symbolism.
Antwerp’s port and the Scheldt
UU Le Foyer
Antwerp owes its prosperity, and its very existence, to the river Scheldt. Paintings from the city’s golden era depict the 16th century version of a skyscraper city - a metropolis of spires and towers which must have been an amazing sight for ships arriving on the river. The modern port, to the north of the city, now covers over 13 hectares with its container terminals and petrol reservoirs. The port’s historic area, Eilanje, is closer to the city centre. Its Willemdok and Bonaparte
Shopping and Fashion
More than just a rich past, Antwerp has a contemporary side. Today’s designers and architects are continuing Antwerp’s cultural tradition and Antwerp has become a fashion mecca for young, aspiring designers, as well as the big names. Even for those who are jaded by shopping, Antwerp is a little bit of shopping heaven. The city offers a totally eclectic mix of fashion, fine delicatessens, antiques and curios, with something new and unusual round every corner. The Meir, which links the station area with the old city, is the major shopping artery, while nearby Schuttershofstaat is home to designer brands. While there, take a detour for lunch in the Bourla Theatre’s Le Foyer restaurant, with its magnificent fresco-painted dome - or at Flamant Dining, on Lange Gasthuisstraat, a concept restaurant based around modern interior design. This is a fashionable area for restaurants and bars, and just opposite the Flamant is the Verso Martini, a stylish cocktail and martini bar, decorated in James Bond style, in white and silver, complete with crystal chandeliers.
The narrow streets of the historic city, many of which are closed to traffic, are the place for discovering unusual shops, boutiques and cafés. Steenhouwerstraat near the Plantin-Moretus museum is the area for antiques hunting, as is the antiques market held every Saturday in Lijnwaadmarkt. Last, but by no means least, a shopping trip to Antwerp merits a visit to one of its chocolate specialists, such as Chocolate Line in the Royal Palace, near Ruben’s House – or less ostentatious, but possibly serving the best hot chocolate in Antwerp, is the Hemels Genieten & Geschenken boutique and café on Wijngaardstraat – also the place to pick up a box of chocolate Brabo Antwerp hands for your journey home.
Transport
Antwerp’s airport, Deurne, is a popular business airport which also offers scheduled flights with carrier CityJet to London and Manchester. Brussels Zaventum airport is located around 50 kilometres away. There are regular trains to Brussels-Midi, with connections to Eurostar, while Thalys offers direct links from Antwerp to Paris and Amsterdam. Antwerp is a pedestrian friendly city, doted with an efficient public transport network of trams, buses and metros for getting around the city. Special thanks to Antwerp Tourism and Convention (www. antwerpen.be/visit) and the Hylitt Hotel (www.hyllithotel.be) for their warm hospitality on our visit to Antwerp.
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Destinations
Roundtable on Antwerp
“To Better Emphasise our Strong Points” Although a significant number of leisure tourists come through the city, the business traveller is extremely important for the city of Antwerp. The city offers so many opportunities for organising original corporate events and incentives. Nonetheless, there is a sense within the MICE industry that the city’s potential in this area is much greater than realised up until now. The Corporate Traveller brought together six industry players to a roundtable in Antwerp City Hall for a lively discussion about the strong and not-so-strong points of Antwerp as a MICE destination. An impression... © M Louagie
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F
oreign companies often have a natural tendency to hold conventions and meetings in the capital of a country. However, our panel noticed some shifts emerging in this area. In the last few years, the so-called secondary cities have come to the forefront, and this stems from the economic crisis. Not only are these cities -- including ones like Manchester and Maastricht -- considerably more budget-friendly, they also offer the opportunity to address certain things differently. The experience itself is becoming increasingly more important within the MICE industry. These secondary cities are thus also ideal for offering alternative experiences. They can be trendy and out-of-the-box, something that is not always associated with the larger capitals.
More and more accessible
For the most part, the first requirement of a good destination is and remains its accessibility. In this regard, Antwerp has the necessary advantages: there is its proximity to the Netherlands, Deurne Airport... of course Antwerp has its share of heavy traffic, but the distances involved are not comparable with Brussels or Paris, for example, where you often sit in a taxi for an hour just to get from the airport to the hotel. In addition, our discussion partners have high expectations of the high-speed train that will
travel between Brussels and Antwerp from 2012 on. From Brussels International Airport to Antwerp city centre, the ride will take a mere 23 minutes. It is hoped that the final barrier between Antwerp and Brussels will finally be broken.
City Marketing
According to the experience of the participants in our panel, anyone who has been to Antwerp once will want to come back. The difficulty lies in getting companies to come to Antwerp for the first time. The city does what is possible to attract the attention of MICE trade fairs like IMEX and EIBTM, but of course it does not have the same kind of budgets like other, larger destinations do. Hence the suggestion to join forces with other partners such as hotels, for example. But the problem here is that hotels usually appear at their stands representing their hotel chains and not as part of the Antwerp stand. But in terms of promotion, there has been a great leap forward in recent years.
UU Sophie Naze KonceptS Event Consulting
UU Wim Verbist Luchthaven Antwerpen
Keeping the guests in Antwerp
Collaboration can take MICE events in Antwerp to a higher level. The representatives of hotels offered as an example a situation in which one hotel does not have the necessary capacity to accommodate the demand of a client and then refers them to another hotel within the same chain... in another city. This
UU Eric Bruyninckx Lindner Hotel
UU Didier Boehlen Radisson Blu Hotel
UU Inge Marstboom Congress en Business Events Stad Antwerpen
translates into a missed opportunity for this destination. In our discussion we noticed a great deal of goodwill in going about these kinds of situations in the future -- steering clients towards hotels from other chains, but ones in Antwerp -- which will contribute in the long term towards building a stronger destination, something that the hotels collectively would surely like to see happen.
Bundling capacity
As far as larger conventions are concerned, there is of course the issue of capacity. This is only increasing, and one often has to accommodate guests at several different locations. Thus, requests that come in to one central location cannot always be responded to immediately, since the inquiry has to be sent to several different partners. This yields a wait time that the modern client often does not have the patience to appreciate. But in this regard, the different
parties seem ready to work more closely and thus more goal-directed with one another for the purpose of bundling their available capacity.
A promising future
Finally, it was concluded that Antwerp has to emphasise its own strong points. Antwerp has the diamond industry, its world of fashion, the port, Rubens... each of these are elements that undoubtedly elevate it to a world-class city, not to mention its culinary offerings. All of these elements can be played up when planning events and incentives,
and they can give them a unique character. The future looks very promising for Antwerp. The new convention centre at the Central Station will bring with it a number of new MICE opportunities. It is also expected that this project will play a pioneering role for the entire region in terms of urban development. The Oosterweel Project also promises to bring along many new opportunities with it. In short, Antwerp is a city that is on the move and one that looks to the future with confidence.
With thanks to the participants in our discussion: Sophie Naze – KonceptS Event Consulting Wim Verbist – Antwerp Airport Eric Bruyninckx – Lindner Hotel Didier Boehlen – Radisson Blu Hotel Inge Marstboom – Convention and Business Events, City of Antwerp Frank De Neef – Convention and Business Events, City of Antwerp
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advertorial
Crowne Plaza Antwerp The Crowne Plaza Hotel in Antwerp has been thoroughly renovated over the last several months. This unique meeting location on Antwerp’s ring road is now equipped to better accommodate the wishes of its guests. In addition, the Crowne Plaza Antwerp has made these improvements as a part of emphasizing its bonds with the city of Antwerp itself. In the restaurant, in the lobby and in the meeting halls, you can get to know many of the beautiful things that Antwerp has to offer.
A
long with the renovations at the Crowne Plaza Antwerp, the hotel has taken on an identity that is entirely its own, according to General Manager Hans Wils. “We want to bring the city into the hotel. Most of our guests stay here at the hotel for business reasons, and because of their often busy agendas with conferences and meetings, they have no time to go and visit the city. This is why we want to introduce Antwerp and all of its unique facets to the guests within these walls here. Just like the city, our hotel is figuratively divided into a left bank and a right bank. On the one side, you can relax, just like on Saint Anna beach, and on the other side, the busy work goes on in the meeting rooms, which is analogous to the port,” explains Wils.
ANNA Living & Bar
Let us begin on the left bank. There we find the brand new ANNA Living & Bar, which has replaced the old lobby bar. “Our lobby bar was always popular for individual gatherings and meetings. Being located on the ring makes it a familiar spot, as it is a meeting place that’s easy to get to and has a very spacious parking lot. The new ANNA Living & Bar has 105 seats and is a bit larger than its predecessor. Moreover, we have varied the menu so that you can get something to eat all day long. The philosophy here is for the kitchen to be open all day, from the early morning until late evening. However, there are some meetings that require a bit more discretion, such as job interviews. So in the lobby, we put in two executive boardrooms. You pay a package price per hour used, and this way you can work and meet in peace. For a small fee, we can include use of a Nespresso coffee machine,
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Meeting in ’t Stad a minibar with cold drinks, the use of WIFI, and parking as well.”
‘See Antwerp from 61’
Larger meetings and seminars can make use of “The Docks of Antwerp” - five multi-functional meeting rooms on the ground floor. On the 16th floor, at a height of 61 metres measured from the Scheldt River, we have instituted the “See it from 61” concept with seven completely renovated meeting rooms and two sky lounges. “On the 16th floor, you have practically a 360° view over the city, says Hans Wils.” Each room has its own focal point, either a unique location or building in the city of Antwerp, which is marked on a Google Earth photo on the wall, with an explanation of the point of view. So you can discover a bit of Antwerp from the meeting halls themselves.”
The best of Antwerp
In a short time, the hotel lobby, 110 guest rooms and the swimming pool and fitness centre will undergo a spectacular renovation. But the most important renovation is the outspoken Antwerp identity that the hotel has chosen for itself. “We want to fully play up Antwerp’s strong points. We have an international audience. And even if they come and stay at our hotel for only one or two days, we still want to try and bring our guests in contact with all unique aspects of the city. They can taste local dishes, learn a little bit of the Antwerp dialect from our menus, or browse handsome artistic photographs of the port on the ground floor of the hotel. Anyone who visits the Crowne Plaza Antwerp is totally immersed in the city,” concludes Hans Wils.
advertorial
Leopold Hotel Antwerp
A pleasant surprise right beside the Stadspark cessibility with a location close to the most important shopping streets, sites of interest, and numerous bars and restaurants. So this gives companies the opportunity to show their foreign guests the most attractive spots
The guests at the Leopold Hotel Antwerp can enjoy all these advantages, complemented by unique personal service, at attractive rates. This hotel is the only one in Antwerp that provides ‘roomwalking’. When guests check
Superbly equipped rooms
Hip & Healthy
in Antwerp”, adds General Manager Filip Caluwaert.
Are you are looking for a business hotel with a difference in Antwerp? Look no further than the fully refurbished Leopold Hotel Antwerp. Here you will find a really friendly atmosphere at attractive rates. Moreover, Antwerp city centre lies just around the corner.
T
he history of the Leopold Hotel Antwerp goes back to 1987 when it opened its doors under the name Carlton. Three years ago, the Irish Prem hotel group took it over and started a complete renovation. “It was transformed into a four-star boutique hotel that was finally completed last year”, says Anja Van Echelpoel, Regional Director of Sales. “We have a total of 127 rooms and suites, a chic
restaurant, a hip lounge bar, and three conference rooms.” The revamped Leopold Hotel Antwerp is literally within walking distance of the Central Station with its various Thalys connections. “But you can also reach our location by the Stadspark very easily from the motorway. And, moreover, we can offer our guests their own parking place! Leopold Hotel Antwerp combines excellent ac-
The completely refurbished rooms provide very many facilities. Each room has a safe in which the guests can keep their laptop, and each safe contains a charger. “In each room there is a docking station for iPod and iPhone, and the hotel guest can make use of free internet, just as in the public areas. Guests who have no laptop with them can surf the internet or look at their e-mails via the TV screen. There is a wireless keyboard in every room. For the furnishing of the rooms, we used warm colours that also appear somewhat daring. Both contemporary and luxurious.”, confides Anja. Moreover, all rooms have super-comfortable Hypnos beds, at least 1.80m wide... blissful sleeping comfort guaranteed!
in, they are personally escorted to their rooms and given all necessary practical information.
But the hotel guests are also surrounded with the very best attention in the public areas. Among other things, the Leopold Hotel is renowned for its lavish breakfasts! And, after a tiring day, the guests can sit and chat at the bar counter or in the snug ‘loungy’ bar. Finally, and very interesting for companies, there is the recently introduced meetings package “Hip & Healthy” - an irresistible all-in formula (49 Euros for eight hours) that incorporates a load of fun extras: vitamin waters, energy drinks, various sorts of fresh juices, Ben & Jerry’s mini-ices, and wraps, sushi, and ciabattas. Literally and figuratively a dynamic arrangement at a favourable price!
For further information: Leopold Hotel Antwerp Quinten Matsijslei 25 2000 Antwerp T. 03 231 15 15 F. 03 225 30 90 sales.antwerp@leopoldhotels.com www.leopoldhotelantwerp.com
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A new trend in Antwerp.
He’s mysterious…
…irresistible… …unique…
He’s Sir Plantin: Pure lifestyle with 176 trendy guest rooms Easy accessible, between the motorway around Antwerp and Central Station “The place to be” to enjoy the bustling district of Zurenborg with its many restaurants, cafés and breathtaking architecture
He distinguishes himself through: Extraordinary design down to the smallest details Free high-speed wireless Internet Free minibar A 100% "no excuse" service guarantee
Sir Plantin looks forward to welcoming you as his esteemed guest. Plantin & Moretuslei 136-140 | B-2018 Antwerp T +32 (0)3 271 0700 | F +32 (0)3 272 3800 | info@sirplantin-antwerp.com | www.sirplantin-antwerp.com
Railways
Why Fly?
With the renovation of its entire rolling stock of trains, enhanced comfort on board and, above all, the opening of the final high speed rail segments bringing Paris, Cologne and Amsterdam all within less than two hours of Brussels, you no longer have any reason to take the plane instead of Thalys to reach these destinations. As illustrated in the recently launched advertising campaign…
W
ith the metamorphosis of Thalys trains initiated in 2008 now complete, business travellers can enjoy greater comfort than ever before on their journeys. In addition to the all-new interior fittings (new seats, new colours, improved lighting, individual electric sockets for every seat in both Confort 1 and Confort 2 classes, a menu which is changed every four months and
above all Wifi access throughout the network), this November Thalys is launching a tailor-made solution for corporate travellers - private lounges onboard trains. The lounges can be used by those who wish to hold meetings, for those with speeches to prepare, or even those who just need to quietly go over the points of an important meeting they are travelling to.
‘Le Salon’
On board its renovated trains, Thalys is offering the possibility of privatising a four-seater lounge, named ‘Le Salon’. Comfort and confidentiality are the order of the day in these elegant and functional surroundings. All of the services included in the price of a Comfort 1 class ticket are available for those travelling in the lounges – WiFi access,
international newspapers and magazines, taxi reservations and onboard dining. These mobile lounges, which can be reserved from 5 November, will be in circulation as from 12 January 2011.
ThalysConnect
Always striving to bring further added value to your journeys, Thalys is also strengthening its ThalysConnect programme. Designed to ease the first and last segments of your journey, the programme offers a number of benefits for those using taxis, public transport, rail connections or other partners, such as Europcar, at their destinations. To find out more about these benefits, visit www.thalys.com
Even more advantages
When you factor in the Thalys corporate reduction programmes B2B Classic and B2B Advantage, its frequent traveller scheme ‘The Card’, and the Ticketless solution, you will rapidly conclude that Thalys is the most competitive solution for travelling to the heart of the business destinations of Paris, Amsterdam and Cologne. Losing time at the airport is now a thing of the past…
Contact: Thalys International Place Stefanie 20 – Stefanieplein 20 1050 Brussels T +32 2 504 05 59 F +32 2 504 05 45 www.thalys.com
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lifestyle
Bose
Engineered for Improved Audio Performance and Stability Bose has introduced three new in-ear products: the IE2 audio headphones for listening on-the-go, and the MIE2 and MIE2i mobile headsets, designed specifically for music-enabled mobile phones. Each is engineered with proprietary Bose technologies for improved audio quality, and feature new Bose® StayHear™ tips for greater stability and a comfortable fit.
T
he IE2 audio headphones, and MIE2 and MIE2i mobile headsets (which are not noise cancelling or sound isolating) offer an enhanced acoustic design using a more sophisticated application of proprietary Bose TriPort® acoustic headphone structure. Music sounds smoother and more natural, instruments have better detail and definition, and high frequencies and vocals are reproduced with improved clarity. For improved stability -- during exercise or other rigorous activity -- each new model debuts proprietary Bose® StayHear™ tips. They attach more securely to the headset itself, and then remain more securely in the ear while in use. Designed with soft silicone and a rounded profile, they fit easily inside the bowl of the ear, while naturally conforming to the upper ridge of the ear. Three sizes are included -- small, medium and large -- ensuring a comfortable fit for hours of listening.
Large variety of audio sources
The IE2 audio headphones can be used with a variety of audio sources, including MP3 players, personal computers and digital music players. The MIE2 and MIE2i mobile headsets offer an additional benefit -- taking calls with ease from music-enabled mobile phones. They feature a con-
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venient in-line microphone and one-touch answer/ end button for seamless switching from music to calls and back. While the MIE2 is compatible with many mobile phones -- including all iPhone models and many BlackBerry devices -- the MIE2i was designed exclusively for listening to and control of select Apple products, including the iPhone, iPod, iPad and MacBook Pro. Its in-line microphone provides access to certain voice applications in Apple products, and the in-line remote lets users adjust volume and navigate through stored music directly from the headset.
Durability
The IE2 audio headphones and MIE2 and MIE2i mobile headsets were constructed and manufactured for lasting quality. From the ear tips to the cables, they have been tested to meet demanding standards for durability. A carrying case is included for added protection and convenience. Bose® IE2 audio headphones and Bose® MIE2 mobile headset complement the existing Bose in-ear headphones and Bose mobile in-ear headset products. Both new styles is available at Bose stores, authorised Bose resellers and online at www.bose. eu for €99 and €129 respectively. In addition, The Bose® MIE2i mobile headset is also available for €129.
Bose® MIE2i Mobile headset • Take calls with one-touch ease • Enjoy music and calls with high quality audio • StayHear™ tips provide greater stability during exercise and other activities • Engineered and tested for lasting quality • Protective carrying case included With a Bose® MIE2i Mobile headset you’ll enjoy enhanced audio quality and convenience from your iPhone, iPad or iPod. Take calls on your iPhone with one-touch ease. Switch back to your music at the touch of a button. With an integrated inline remote located on the back of the microphone, you can adjust volume, play/pause tracks, skip tracks forward/backward, fast forward/rewind and change playlists — and you need never miss a call. And enjoy it all in Bose-quality sound.
Bose® IE2 audio headphones
Bose® MIE2 Mobile headset
• A new standard of audio quality for greater musical detail • Advanced design, durable materials for lasting quality • StayHear™ tips for greater stability during exercise and other activities • Hours of comfortable on-the-go listening • Protective carrying case included
• Take calls with one-touch ease • Enjoy music and calls with high quality audio • StayHear™ tips provide greater stability during exercise and other activities • Engineered and tested for lasting quality • Protective carrying case included
Bose® IE2 audio headphones set a new standard for sound reproduction that conventional ear buds can’t match. Re-engineered from the inside out, they feature an enhanced acoustic design that helps music sound smoother and more natural. And our new construction provides a more secure fit and improved durability.
The Bose® MIE2 mobile headset is designed to improve both the audio quality and convenience you experience from your mobile phone. You can take calls at the touch of a button. Switch seamlessly between calls and music. And enjoy them both in Bose quality sound.
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Lifestyle
Sennheiser offers a range of compatible headsets for the new iPhone 4
All-rounders to suit all needs Music has transcended all boundaries – whether you want to enjoy it at home, on the go, or on holiday. Bringing crystal-clear audio for your mobile music, Sennheiser has announced the compatibility of its Mobile Music headsets, Smart Remote Control headsets, and Sports headsets with the new iPhone 4.
M
usic enthusiasts ben-efit from a great selection: Sennheiser products with connectivity types ranging from wired to wireless, as well as various wearing styles such as headband and neckband versions or ear canal solutions deliver bold sound you can carry around. Moreover, the wired headsets score with an integrated Apple compatible remote control – thus guarantee full control of your music and phone calls. iPhone users are at the forefront of today’s digital lifestyle. Their high demands on design and quality also apply to headsets. Sennheiser headsets deliver precise and clear sound quality with an
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eye-catching design for any purpose. “Sennheiser sound has been made available for Apple iPhones so customers can benefit from the supreme quality standards and excellent audio quality that is inherent in the audio specialist’s headsets. Sennheiser stands for top quality, distinctive design, and intuitive communication features”, explains Christian Ern, Product Manager at Sennheiser Communications.
Wired or wireless? You decide!
Some users prefer the simplicity accomplished by wired headsets, whereas others prefer the wireless feeling of freedom. Depending on your preferences, Sennheiser offers a wide range of high quality headsets for both tastes. Sennheiser products will provide clear audio for your music or telephone calls and an ideal and adaptable design for a comfortable and personalized fit – even for long hours of use with your iPhone 4. The wired models comprise high-quality headsets to ideally switch between music pleasure and phone calls with the ultimate ease of using the smart in-line remote control with
microphone. The users simply change the volume, control the music-playing options, answer or end calls and activate Voice Control at the push of a button – all from a sleek built-in unit and fully compatible with the new iPhone 4. Music lovers preferring wireless freedom can choose among a variety of Bluetooth headsets. Sennheiser’s unrivalled sound quality is paired with the hands-free convenience and optimized fit of Bluetooth solutions. The wireless headsets encompass striking features such as an invisible microphone and easy headset controls for enhanced usability and convenience.
An expression of personality: The wearing styles
Wired / Smart Remote Control headsets: IE 8i
High-end ear canal earphones with in-line microphone
MM 80i TRAVEL
Travel ear canal earphones with in-line microphone
CX 880i
Balanced ear canal earphones with in-line microphone
MM 70i
Dynamic bass-focused ear canal earphones with in-line microphone
PX 100-IIi Open, foldable mini headphones with in-line microphone PX 200-IIi
Closed, foldable mini headphones with in-line microphone
HD 218i
Closed mini headphones with in-line microphone
HD 238i Open mini headphones with in-line microphone
Wireless / Bluetooth Mobile Music headsets: MM 550 TRAVEL Wireless high-end foldable headband headset with extra- large ear cups MM 450 TRAVEL Wireless foldable headband headset for the frequent traveler Just like choosing the ideal colour, dress style, or mobile phone, the choice of the headset wearing style is a clear expression of personality. The variety ranges from urban trendsetting headband headphones, to discreet ear canal solutions – all of which are part of Sennheiser’s wide portfolio. Whether you prefer the wired Smart Remote Control headsets, wireless Bluetooth solutions or the Sports headsets with sweat- and waterresistant ready-to-work out designs - connect your Sennheiser headset of choice to your iPhone 4 and enjoy a vivid and remarkable quality of sound lifting your music to a new level of experience. The product range of iPhone 4 compatible headsets is now worldwide available through Sennheiser’s distribution network and at Apple Online and in Apple Stores.
MM 400
Wireless foldable headband stereo headset
MM 100 Wireless lightweight neckband-style headset
Wired / Smart Remote Control Sports headsets: MX 680i Sports
Ear bud sports headset with integrated remote and microphone
OMX 680i Sports Ear-clip sports headset with integrated remote and microphone PMX 680i Sports Neckband sports headset with integrated remote and microphone CX 680i Sports Ear canal sports headsets with integrated remote and microphone
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The winds are particularly fair just now for: Europe from ₏ 159.– –
SWISS has some fantastic opportunities to oĆźer all year round. From Brussels SWISS oĆźers seventeen European destinations from only â‚Ź159,– incl. tax with a short transfer in Zurich, and all with top class service from SWISS. Don’t delay, book today. Prices for return ďƒ&#x;ights. Taxes and surcharges included. Rates subject to special conditions. Limited availabilty. Destinations are: Barcelona, Florence, Istanbul, Lisbon, Madrid, Malaga, Milan, Moscow, Oslo, Palma de Mallorca, Rome, Thessaloniki, Soďƒža, Stockholm, Venice, Valencia en Warsaw.
AUTUMN SPECIAL 48*44 ."%&
Get ready for service fit for a kinnnng
Discover Eurostar’s Premier classes On your London business trip, discover comfort and tranquillity in our two Premier classes. Business Premier – experience a supreme level of service in our premium business class. Check in up to just 10 minutes before departure, stay connected in our exclusive Business Premier lounges in Brussels and London, and take your pick of complimentary newspapers and magazines on board. You’ll also enjoy a three course meal with drinks served to your seat, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing all Business Premier tickets are fully flexible. Standard Premier – find the space to work, rest or unwind in peace and calm. A welcome awaits as you find your carriage, you take your place on board and enjoy a light meal and drinks served to your spacious, comfortable seat. And, because we all know plans can change, we also offer semi-flexible tickets which are exchangeable and refundable with a small fee. Whichever Premier class you choose, you’ll enjoy travel fit for a king. Find out more at eurostar.com