Outlook Travel magazine - issue 03

ISSUE 03

OMAN

Desert views and Bedouin culture

MALAWI

Africa’s warm heart

SIMPLE WAYS TO TRAVEL MORE SUSTAINABLY

Five easy tips

YOUR TRAVEL GUIDE TO

ROMANIA

Interview with Stu McKenzie, award-winning photographer, army veteran and Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society

EME w w w. a f r i c a o u t l o o k m a g . c o m

Issue 81

NAS AIRPORT SERVICES Achieving the taste of excellence

w w w. a s i a o u t l o o k m a g . c o m

Issue 44

STAYING 20/20 IN 2020

w w w. e m e o u t l o o k m a g . c o m

Issue 35

MEDIGUIDE INTERNATIONAL

BOG’ART GROUP

Finding the closest way to the cure

Romania’s integrated building company

How Vision Eye Institute remains at the leading edge of ophthalmology in Australia

INSPIRING INSURANCE CONFIDENCE As the COVID-19 pandemic progresses, Ghana’s National Insurance Commission is working hard to provide some much needed peace of mind

TEREOS FKS INDONESIA

MURRAY & DICKSON CONSTRUCTION

Reversing reliance on imported goods

CELLCARD

Supporting the fight against COVID-19 in Cambodia

An inclusive, ‘grow with us’ approach to business

How Wind River software continues to lead the way in today’s hyperconnected and autonomous era

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: INTERVIEW WITH PUMA ENERGY AFRICA’S TOP 100 CEO, EGHOSA ORIAIKHI MABHENA

Paul Nef, Regional Director of Honeywell Aerospace Asia, discusses the long-term outlook for aerospace MRO services

Arnauld Blondet, Chief Innovation Officer, EMEA at Orange, on the tech giant’s approach to R&D

AFRICA’S TOP 100 CEO, EGHOSA ORIAIKHI MABHENA IN THE SPOTLIGHT: INTERVIEW WITH PUMA ENERGY

discusses the long-term outlook for aerospace MRO services Paul Nef, Regional Director of Honeywell Aerospace Asia,

at Orange, on the tech giant’s approach to R&D Arnauld Blondet, Chief Innovation Officer, EMEA

approach to business An inclusive, ‘grow with us’

CONSTRUCTION DICKSON MURRAY &

peace of mind working hard to provide some much needed Ghana’s National Insurance Commission is As the COVID-19 pandemic progresses,

CONFIDENCE INSURANCE INSPIRING

in today’s hyperconnected and autonomous era How Wind River software continues to lead the way

Cambodia against COVID-19 in Supporting the fight

Tell us your story, and we’ll tell the world imported goods Reversing reliance on

CELLCARD

INDONESIA TEREOS FKS

of ophthalmology in Australia How Vision Eye Institute remains at the leading edge

Africa Outlook, Asia Outlook and IN Europe & Middle East Outlook are digital and 2020 GROUP SERVICES BOG’ART STAYING 20/20 AIRPORT INTERNATIONAL print publications aimed at boardroom and hands-on decision-makers, reaching NAS MEDIGUIDE an audience of more than 800,000 people around the world; spanning the full range of industrial sectors. excellence taste of Achieving the

w w w. a f r i c a o u t l o o k m a g . c o m

Issue 81

building company Romania’s integrated

to the cure Finding the closest way

w w w. a s i a o u t l o o k m a g . c o m

Issue 44

w w w. e m e o u t l o o k m a g . c o m

EME

With original and exclusive content compiled by our experienced editorial team, we look to promote the latest in engaging news, industry trends and success stories from across the globe.

Your company can join the leading industry heavyweights enjoying the free exposure we provide across both digital and print platforms with a free marketing brochure, extensive social media saturation, enhanced B2B networking opportunities, and a readymade forum to attract new investment and to help you grow your business.

Visit www.outlookpublishing.com/get-involved for details on how your company can feature for free in one of our upcoming editions.

www.outlookpublishing.com/get-involved

Issue 35

WELCOME ISSUE 03

A CHANGING WORLD OMAN

H

SIMPLE WAYS TO TRAVEL MORE SUSTAINABLY

Desert views and Bedouin culture

MALAWI

Africa’s warm heart

Five easy tips

alfway through the writing of this magazine, the world changed. This is not an exaggeration.

Countries have closed their borders and around a

YOUR TRAVEL GUIDE TO

ROMANIA

third of the world’s population has been placed under

Interview with Stu McKenzie, award-winning photographer, army veteran and Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society

lockdown. At the time of writing, COVID-19 has caused around 130,000 deaths, and millions of people have

EDITORIAL Editor: Dani Redd dani.redd@outlookpublishing.com Editorial Director: Tom Wadlow tom.wadlow@outlookpublishing.com PRODUCTION Art Director: Stephen Giles steve.giles@outlookpublishing.com

lost their jobs.

Economically, the travel industry has been one of the worst hit, as it is an industry entirely dependent on global mobility. But despite this, there have been numerous stories of generosity – of hotels providing

Senior Designer: Devon Collins devon.collins@outlookpublishing.com

educational videos to help homeschooled children, tour companies

Junior Designer: Matt Loudwell matt.loudwell@outlookpublishing.com

producing interactive tours so their guides get paid – as our news feature

BUSINESS

illustrates. Alongside this, the third edition of Outlook Travel also features

Managing Director: Ben Weaver ben.weaver@outlookpublishing.com Sales Director: Nick Norris nick.norris@outlookpublishing.com Operations Director: James Mitchell james.mitchell@outlookpublishing.com TRAVEL GUIDES Director: Joe Palliser joe.palliser@outlookpublishing.com

expert answers to the question: ‘How can travel businesses work towards overcoming the effects of COVID-19 while helping their communities?’

The world is changing but our mission at Outlook Travel remains the same – to showcase some of the world’s most exciting destinations for you to visit once lockdown is lifted. From Romania to Malawi, Oman to São Tomé,

Sales Manager: Jordan Levey jordan.levey@outlookpublishing.com

explore the world with us from the safety of your armchair.

Sales Manager: Krisha Canlas krisha.canlas@outlookpublishing.com

This issue is themed around sustainability – that is, travel which can have a

Sales Manager: Matt Cole-Wilkin matt.cole-wilkin@outlookpublishing.com

positive impact on local communities and the environment. ‘How to Travel

ADMINISTRATION

More Sustainably’ provides you with five quick and easy trips to reduce

Finance Director: Suzanne Welsh suzanne.welsh@outlookpublishing.com

your carbon footprint while travelling. Meanwhile, our selection of ‘The

Administrative Assistant: Sophia Curran sophia.curran@outlookpublishing.com

World’s Most Instagrammable Cabins’ shows you that environmentally-

Office Manager: Daniel George daniel.george@outlookpublishing.com CONTACT Outlook Travel magazine East Wing, Ground Floor, 69-75 Thorpe Road, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 1UA, United Kingdom.

Sales: +44 (0) 1603 959 652 Editorial: +44 (0) 1603 959 657 SUBSCRIPTIONS Tel: +44 (0) 1603 959 657 tom.wadlow@outlookpublishing.com www.outlooktravelmag.com

friendly doesn’t have to mean rustic. For our regular Travel Business feature we interviewed Dan Yates, the founder of Pitchup – the UK’s first search and bookings platform for campsites.

We’d like to express our sincere thanks to everyone who took the time to contribute to the magazine, especially in such difficult times. And we do hope you all enjoy the read.

Twitter: @outlooktravel1 Instagram: www.instagram.com/outlooktravelmagazine Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/showcase/outlook-travel-magazine Facebook: facebook.com/outlooktravelmag

Dani Redd Editor Outlook Travel

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 3

Join in the conversation...

Discover the power of mobile engagement with Outlook Travel magazine’s social media platforms.

Our Instagram feed showcases inspiring photographs of the destinations we cover, as well as featuring shots of our favourite hand-selected hotels.

Meanwhile, our Twitter feed keeps you up-to-date with the latest travel news and provides you with a dedicated network of travel professionals to connect with. You can also find us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

travel magazine Follow us on social media for updates and travel inspiration

CONTENTS APRIL 2020 | ISSUE 03

78

36

106

REGULARS 08 NEWS Around the world in seven stories…

14 BEHIND THE LENS

T R AV E L G U I D E S ASIA

22 MYANMAR Vietnam’s most up-and-coming city

An interview with photographer Stu McKenzie

MIDDLE EAST

52 THE TIFFIN BOX

36 OMAN

A regular column about Indian Food

Desert views and Bedouin culture

130 TRAVEL BUSINESS: PITCHUP

EUROPE

A seamless campsite booking platform

Pure Alpine living

182 THE LAST STOP Tristan da Cunha – the world’s most remote island

56 TIROL 66 MONTENEGRO Europe’s new ‘it’ destination

78 ROMANIA Clifftop castles and mountain views

AMERICAS

94 CHILE Otherworldly views

106 COLOMBIA Colourful city streets

AFRICA

134 GHANA West Africa’s top destination

148 SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE Wild, green and half-forgotten

156 MALAWI Africa’s warm heart

170 ZAMBIA Untapped wilderness

F E AT U R E S 06 EXPERT INSIGHTS How can businesses overcome the effects of COVID-19?

10 THE WORLD’S MOST INSTAGRAMMABLE CABINS ‘Eco’ doesn’t always mean rustic

88 SIMPLE WAYS TO TRAVEL MORE SUSTAINABLY It’s surprisingly easy

116 GUYANA South America’s undiscovered gem

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 5

EXPERT INSIGHTS FEATURE

EXPERT INSIGHTS

How can travel businesses work towards overcoming the effects of COVID-19 while helping their communities?

“SMALL, LOCALLY-OWNED TRAVEL and hospitality businesses are the backbone of every community around the world. If these businesses close, then communities everywhere run the risk of mass homogenisation – where everywhere starts to look everywhere else. We already see this in metropolitan areas around the world, where there’s a Starbucks or KFC on every corner.

“Our main advice is not to panic. We’ve seen several businesses in the food tourism sector throw in the towel and state that they’ve shut permanently. We are all under extreme stress. Nevertheless, we encourage business owners to do everything they can to ride out the storm.

The ship will right itself. The economy will rebound and people will travel again. The hospitality that these businesses provide is actually the face behind the place – the how and why we want to travel to your destination and business in the first place.”

– Erik Wolf, Industry Founder and Director, World Food Travel Association

“TRAVEL BUSINESSES NEED to work collaboratively with their communities at this difficult time, ensuring that they pay their bills and maintain the relationships they will need once again when the situation improves. Empty hotels can temporarily host key workers free of charge, restaurants can prepare and deliver meals to the vulnerable, and staff can volunteer their time.

“Downtime is also a prime opportunity to research your products and markets: audit, plan, and improve your existing marketing strategy and content; provide remote training for staff; and ensure you have up to date knowledge about products, best practice and regulations.”

– Sophie Ibbotson, Tourism Ambassador for Uzbekistan

“PLEASE POSTPONE – don’t cancel your booking so that you are keeping your money in Africa and therefore protecting wildlife populations. This too shall pass, so importantly, feel confident to book future trips and therefore commit to camps in Africa so that they can keep staff on, and continue with their conservation and community efforts. It is so important that employees remain engaged and hopeful, and don’t go looking for an alternative sources of income, such as poaching.”

– Alice Gully, Co-owner of Aardvark Safaris

6 | Outlook Travel issue 03

“OVERCOMING COVID-19 NEEDS a worldwide effort, which will be key to not only the ongoing success of the travel and hospitality industry but society as a whole. We all need to do everything we can to beat this and get back to as close to normal as possible. That means a healthy population, working economy and strong community – everyone needs to play their part for us to achieve this.

“It’s not just about looking after our own businesses – a fully functioning hotel and restaurant that doesn’t

have a healthy, active and engaged community supporting it will not be a success. That’s why we are doing everything we can to make sure we are ready to both welcome back guests, new and old, and to help out in any way we can.

“We’re lucky to have the equipment to produce sanitiser on site and donate over 40 litres per day to Maids Care, a local community interest company who look after the most vulnerable in our community in partnership with the NHS. We are also

working closely with another CIC, Re4orm. In addition to offering our support and facilities where needed, we have committed to donating £12,000 over the next six months, which will allow them to provide 800 hot meals and food packages per week to those most in need.”

– David Adams, General Manager, Cary Arms & Spa

“DMO’S AND TRAVEL businesses are facing the difficult task of how to market and promote destinations when the world is shut down. A common theme I have seen is that they can encourage the community to come together in this tough time.

In Little Rock, Arkansas, many local businesses are helping travel and hospitality businesses by offering free marketing, print materials and free food photography for restaurants.

“The industry can utilise its contacts to bring people and businesses together for the greater good. Destinations and travel businesses can also be looking at how they emerge from the other side of Covid-19 in a stronger and more mindful way. Now we have seen cities suffering from over-tourism empty, the air become cleaner and the sense of community grown stronger, we need to look at how can address the problems that tourism can create.

How can we encourage people to travel in a slower, more mindful way, rather than just clocking up air miles and ticking off bucket lists?”

– Pip Jones, podcast and blogger at Pip and the City

Pip recently recorded a podcast episode entirely dedicated to how the industry can recover from Covid-19, which can be listened to here.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 7

NEWS

Around the world in seven stories…

R E S TA U R A N T S

AV I AT I O N

FINNAIR OUTLINES AMBITIOUS SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY

THREE MICHELIN-STARRED FARMDRIVEN RESTAURANT MAKES MEALS FOR THE NEEDY SingleThread, a three Michelin star restaurant in Sonoma Country, is rolling out an ambitious plan to feed needy families in their local area.

It has secured over $150,000 from individuals such as actor Josh Lucas and businesses such as winery Kistler, which has purchased blocks of family meals.

These are being cooked by SingleThread and will be distributed to local families in need through a non-profit organisation, Sonoma Family Meal – the aim is to feed 200 families a day.

SingleThread will also make an additional 25 family meals available to the public daily. These meals cost $75 and will feed a family of four – a significantly lower cost than their standard restaurant fare.

The project will enable the owners, Kyle and Katina Connaughton, to keep their staff in employment and weather the crisis while helping out the local community.

H O S P I TA L I T Y

STAFF FROM LUXURY HOTEL HELP LOCAL FARMERS WITH RICE HARVEST Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang, located in Siam Reap, might be on hiatus, but it is helping local farmers take care of the surrounding paddy fields.

Usually, the rice cultivation scheme is a sustainable initiative offered to guests of the hotel throug​hout the year, allowing them to be involved in a collaborative cultivation project and contribute to a wider local 8 | Outlook Travel issue 03

community. Five local farmers work with Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang to cultivate the rice, which is then served in the hotel restaurants.

In the absence of guests, the hotel staff joined the local farmers to help bring in the harvest. They have vowed to continue supporting the community by helping cultivate the rice fields on a regular basis.

Nordic air carrier Finnair recently unveiled ambitious plans to reduce net emissions by 50 percent by the end of 2025 and to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045 – far exceeding industry targets.

It will achieve this reduction through a variety of means: reducing food waste and single-use plastics onboard by 50 percent by the end of 2022; investing between $4 billion and $4.5 billion on renewing its fleet; partnering with Neste to increase the use of sustainable fuels in Finnair operations and much more.

“Our number one goal is to reduce our own CO2 emissions by investing in new aircraft technology, by flying fuel-efficiently, by decreasing aircraft weight and by increasing the use of sustainable aviation fuels. We are also investing in innovation and research to create future solutions that support our long-term target of carbon neutrality,” said Topi Manner, CEO of Finnair.

TOURS

TECHNOLOGY

THE TOUR GUY PARTNERS WITH BIGMARKER TO PRODUCE INTERACTIVE VIRTUAL TOURS

WORLD EXPEDITIONS MAKES ALL ITS GLOBAL EXPEDITIONS CARBON NEUTRAL Adventure specialist travel company World Expeditions has recently ensured every trip across its global range is carbon neutral, at no extra cost to travellers.

The company has pledged to offset emissions by purchasing credits including Bac Lieu Wind Energy project in Vietnam, which produces clean and affordable wind energy, the Kariba Reduced Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation (REDD+) Project, and Forest Protection Zimbabwe, which conserves forest and protects wildlife.

“We are delighted to directly support positive impacts in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. The positive impact travel initiative is consistent with World Expeditions’ commitment to adhering to the highest standards of sustainable travel on every level of operations,” said Gordon Steer, UK Manager for World Expeditions.

RAIL

ORIGINAL TRAVEL LAUNCHES A COLLECTION OF EUROPEAN TRAIN ITINERARIES Holiday operator Original Travel has launched a range of eight new European train itineraries in a bid to help holiday makers reduce their carbon footprint.

Each journey begins at London St Pancras and continues onto cities such as Barcelona and Oslo, visiting regions ranging from the Amalfi Coast to Swedish Lapland.

“The launch is the latest stage of

Original Travel’s continuing effort to combine a love of travel with a concern for the environment. In 2017 we pledged to offset not only the carbon footprint created by our clients’ and staff’s international flights, but also - in an industry-first – their car-hire and transfers. There is no opt-out - this happens automatically with every trip,” commented Tom Barber, Co-Founder of Original Travel.

Guided tour company The Tour Guy recently partnered with BigMarker, the world’s top rated webinar live video platform company, to launch a series of Interactive Virtual Tours.

Tours last an hour and transport visitors to top cultural attractions such as the Vatican or the Louvre, while Bigmarker’s innovative platform will enable interactive features such as polls and live Q&A. The Tour Guy is allocating all proceeds from the interactive tours towards paying its staff’s wages.

“The Tour Guy’s employees and guides, who are locked down at home, are currently unable to earn a living or do what they love the most, which is leading small group tours where they can share their passion and knowledge about the world’s greatest destinations and cultures. We want our guides to be able to continue to earn a living and also to stay passionate,” said CEO Sean Finelli.

H O S P I TA L I T Y

DROMOLAND CASTLE USES YOUTUBE TO MAKE EDUCATIONAL VIDEOS FOR CHILDREN Dromoland Castle, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, is helping entertain children who are being home-schooled in Ireland. It has teamed up with local artist Una Heaton to provide arts and crafts lessons on its Youtube channel.

The first class, now available online, instructs children how to build an easy-to-make castle using materials found around the house.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 9

INSTAGRAMMABLE CABINS ROUND-UP

THE WORLD’S MOST I N S TA G R A M M A B L E C A B I N S IN A WORLD where ‘social distancing’ and ‘self-isolating’ have become commonly used words, the concept of ‘getting away from it all’ has suddenly acquired new resonance. But even before the onset of COVID-19, there has been a rise in cabin culture – an interest in building or staying in secluded cabins. So what explains the appeal?

According to ‘cabinologist’ Dale Mulfinger, an architect who has helped build more than a hundred cabins, they’re “places of human bonding”.

“You don’t want oversized bedrooms. You don’t want to promote people staying in their rooms, you want them to come out and be working on the puzzle at the table. There’s less focus on bedrooms and baths, and more focus on a communal great room,” he says. People are moving from more traditional wooden dwellings to experimenting with different materials and more a contemporary architectural style.

“They’re interested in the simplicity of it. They don’t want a cluttered life, cluttered with stuff. Modern represents that to them,” Dale explains.

Here are our five favourite cabins, where you can spend some time getting away from it all.

MANSHAUSEN SEA CABINS Manshausen is a unique island resort, located on the dramatic Steigen Archipelago in northern Norway. It was founded by polar explorer Børge Ousland, to discover “the harmony between people and nature”.

The resort’s four sea cabins, created by famed designer Snorre Stinessen, have won several architecture awards. Three of the cabins are perched on a stone jetty and the fourth on a natural ledge – all have wonderful panoramic views of the surrounding sea and mountains.

The cabins are constructed from natural materials and have bespoke bathrooms, double-beds and a kitchen. They also feature floor-to-ceiling windows so you can soak up the scenery while staying warm. On clear nights you can sometimes see the Northern Lights.

The resort has a private hot tub that can be rented. Boats, kayaks, bikes, scuba diving equipment and snowshoes can also be rented locally.

WHERE: Manshausen Island, 8283, Norway WEB: www.manshausen.no/en

10 | Outlook Travel issue 03

TYE HAUS Tye Haus is a gorgeous A-frame cabin located in the heart Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest in the American state of Washington. It’s surrounded by mountains and pine forest, bisected with hundreds of trails to different summits and waterfalls. Hiking is a popular activity, for those who can bring themselves to leave the cabin.

The cabin boasts a welcoming sitting room with a gas fireplace, and a sleeping loft with two comfortable beds.

There’s also an outdoor firepit and a four-person hot tub, so you can soak under the stars.

WHERE: Timberlane Village, Skyomish, Washington WEB: www.tyerivercabinco.com

INSTAGRAMMABLE CABINS ROUND-UP

PEMBROKESHIRE HOUSEBOAT This handcrafted rustic-chic cabin floats serenely upon a large freshwater pond in southwest Wales. It’s based on an organic farm, which has 300 acres of woodland, grassland and moorland for you to explore.

You’ll have complete seclusion, aside from the odd moorhen. Enjoy the watery views and beautiful sunsets from the wraparound terrace.

The cabin boasts rustic Scandi-style interiors, with an open plan living room, bedroom, modern kitchen and bathroom. Thoughtful touches include bouquets of wildflowers and breakfast hampers of delicious farm produce. This is a fantastic place for a retreat – it’s completely off-grid, with PV panels providing LED lighting and power.

WHERE: Dragonfly Camping, Kilgetty, Pembrokeshire, Wales WEB: www.kiphideaways.com

12 | Outlook Travel issue 03

HOSHINOYA KARUIZAWA If you’re looking for the comfort and amenities of a luxury hotel with the secluded feel of cabin living, Hoshinoya Karuizawa comes highly recommended. It’s a serene resort village surrounded by forests and a river, just over two hours’ drive from Tokyo. The resort is powered by hydroelectric systems that run on the water trickling down nearby Mount Asama, and geothermal springs power its spa baths.

The open-plan cabin-style rooms have a design aesthetic that has evolved out of Japan’s past; cool minimalism that relies on natural materials and shades. Many rooms have high timbered ceilings, open fireplaces and geothermal underfloor heating; some have their own private gardens and all offer floor-to-ceiling views of the surrounding forest. Head to the two spa cabins by the lake for a beauty treatment, or to the meditation hot spring for a relaxing soak.

This is a resort dedicated to relaxing and unwinding in beautiful natural surroundings.

WHERE: Nagakura, Kitasaku District, Japan WEB: www.hoshinoya.com/ karuizawa

LOVE CABINS The Love Cabins are tucked away among 600 acres of bushland in Australia’s awe-inspiring Blue Mountains. They’re the perfect spot for those who want a wilderness experience without skimping on creature comforts.

Each of the nine cabins is completely unique. The Enchanted Cave is set into the bedrock of the mountain, with a roaring fireplace and a spa bathroom with hand-carved natural rock tiles. The Wollemi Wilderness Treehouse lets you fulfil a childhood fantasy of living in the trees, albeit with a private spa and treetop fireplace. You’ll have amazing views of the Blue Mountains and the rainforest too.

There are plenty of activities on offer, ranging from a day-long hike to a guided tour of a nearby glow worm colony. Or you can opt for an in-cabin massage or reflexology session.

WHERE: Nr Bilpin, New South Wales, Australia WEB: www.hostunusual.com Outlook Travel issue 03 | 13

BEHIND THE LENS INTERVIEW

BEHIND THE LENS An interview with photographer Stu McKenzie, award-winning photographer, army veteran and Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society Writer: Dani Redd Photography: Stu McKenzie

STU MCKENZIE HAS recently returned from an expedition photographing the spring migration of the Kazakh eagle hunters in Mongolia.

He’s an adventurer, army veteran and award-winning photographer, most recently scooping up second place 14 | Outlook Travel issue 03

awards for ‘Travel Photographer of the Year’ and ‘In-camera Artistry’ at the annual Photography Society Awards. Stu is also an educator – he taught at the Defence School of Photography, and developed the training for combat camera teams

heading into areas of conflict. He now leads photography expeditions for the public, venturing everywhere from New Zealand to Namibia.

We caught up with Stu between assignments to discover more about his photography practice.

Outlook Travel (OT): You were a cameraman before you became a photographer – what motivated the change?

Stu McKenzie (SM): I originally started photography whilst I served in the British Army. At that time the Army had 38 professional photographers and about three of those were TV cameramen, so after a while I was selected to be one of those cameramen and I found that I was quite good at it. I left the Army in 2013 and became a cameraman for the BBC. However, I missed photography, and having never worked for myself (I’d always 16 | Outlook Travel issue 03

been employed within large organisations) I really wanted a new challenge and to have the freedom to select my own projects.

everything you have. I’m generally a happy person, but when I’m in deepest darkest Mongolia or in the High Arctic then I’m most certainly in my happy place.

OT: Your photography focusses a lot on remote landscapes – what fascinates you about these places?

OT: What’s the most exciting thing about being a travel photographer?

SM: There’s something about remote locations that’s good for the soul.

Being in the middle of nowhere, cut off from the rest of the world with no mobile, TV or electricity is simply incredible. Living a simple way of life does something to you; it grounds you and makes you appreciate

SM: Without a shadow of a doubt the most exciting thing about being a travel photographer is meeting other cultures – the people really make it for me. Living alongside them for a short period is amazing. Often they live a traditional, simple life yet they will give you everything.

BEHIND THE LENS INTERVIEW

Left: The sun rises behind a 600-year-old petrified tree in Deadvlei, Namibia Right: Uhitirapi Muhenje feeds her one year old son; they are members of the Himba Tribe found in North West Namibia Previous page: Wind blows sand from a quest of the dune in the Namib Desert

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 17

“I WANT TO GIVE PEOPLE A SAFE AND EDUCATIONAL EXPEDITION THAT EXCITES THEM, MAKES THEM WANT TO EXPLORE AND ENGAGE WITH OTHER CULTURES. MOST OF THE EXPEDITIONS PROVIDE EXACTLY THAT” OT: On the flip side, what are the biggest challenges?

SM: Each location presents different challenges. Common to all of them is getting there, and often it’s a long and sometimes dangerous journey just to arrive. I remember heading to the Russian Arctic to live with and photograph Nenets reindeer herders 200 miles inside the Arctic Circle.

One part of the journey was an eighthour drive on a frozen river. Although it was winter, in places the river had not totally frozen. I really thought on more than one occasion we were going to fall through the thin ice.

OT: What qualities do you need to succeed as a travel photographer?

18 | Outlook Travel issue 03

SM: There are lots of different qualities you need to succeed as a travel photographer, including determination, photographic ability and good communication skills. However, the one quality that you will need in abundance is emotional intelligence, specifically empathy. It’s key if you want to connect to other cultures and be able to convey their story through your photography.

OT: What’s been the best place you’ve travelled to?

SM: I’m not sure I can pick a favourite.

Mongolia is special – I’ve been there a few times and each time it blows me away. I love Africa too; Namibia is simply stunning.

OT: Tell us about the Edge of Focus photography expeditions you run.

SM: I want to give people a safe and educational expedition that excites them, makes them want to explore and engage with other cultures. Most of the expeditions provide exactly that. Take the expedition to Mongolia for example; participants will take part in the spring migration of Kazakh eagle hunters as they drive their herd 150 kilometres up into the Altai Mountains.

For seven days you live alongside the eagle hunter and his family, walking the 150 kilometres with them as they herd the animals over mountain passes and frozen lakes. It really is a journey of a lifetime.

BEHIND THE LENS INTERVIEW

Left: Archers take part in an ice archery competition in northwest Mongolia. Top: Daria, 3, is one of the Nenets people, reindeer herders found in the Arctic. Above: boy from remote Himba village, Namibia. Right: boy from the remote village of Owongeya, Namibia. Below: Kazakh eagle hunter, Erbal, Mongolia

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 19

BEHIND THE LENS INTERVIEW

HOW I GOT THIS PHOTO > I took this photo last year in Mongolia. It shows three eagle hunters drinking tea from bowls.

It was taken on the final day of the 150-kilometre migration. I noticed that each afternoon, after a full day herding, the men would boil up water and sit and chat whilst drinking tea. I tried to capture this moment several times, but the light and composition wasn’t right. On the final day of the migration all the elements came together. Lovely light was coming in through a small window in the hut, the steam from the kettle and the bowls was swirling all over – I knew I had a great shot.

You can see more of Stu’s work on his Instagram page, @stumckenziephoto, or his website: www.stumckenziephotography.com

M YA N M A R This Southeast Asian country offers sights to enchant even the most jaded traveller, from the glittering spires of Buddhist stupas to remote indigenous villages Writer: Dani Redd | Project Manager: Joe Palliser

E

ven world-weary travellers will be captivated by Myanmar. By the glinting surface of Golden Rock, balanced precipitously on the edge of Mount Kyaiktiyo.

By the 4,000 stupas scattered across the mist-shrouded plains of Bagan.

By the untouched beaches of the Myeik Archipelago. Myanmar offers some of the most spectacular sights of Southeast Asia – without the crowds.

In this off-the-beaten track country, there are plenty of places where you can relax and unwind. Travel down the wide bends of the Irawaddy River or take a kayaking trip across the glittering waters of the Andaman Sea. Indulge in the bucket list experience of a sunset hot air balloon ride above the stupas of Bagan. Visit one of the many gilded Buddhist temples in the country.

Myanmar’s towns and cities are hives of activity, especially the capital of Yangon.

Visit the country’s local markets or participate in its bustling tea house culture. Since tourism sanctions were lifted in 2015, the local people are delighted to talk to visitors and introduce them to their traditions. A community tourism trip to the remote Chin State to meet indigenous villagers is a particularly special activity.

Whether you’re visiting Myanmar in search of religious monuments or stunning landscapes, we guarantee your expectations will be exceeded, again and again.

MYANMAR TRAVEL GUIDE

Mount Popa is a volcano 1,518 metres (4,981 feet) above sea level, located in central Myanmar in the region of Mandalay approx. 50 kilometres (31 miles) southeast of Bagan (Pagan) in the Pegu Range. It can be seen from the Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy) River on a clear day. Mount Popa is best known as a pilgrimage site, with numerous Nat temples and relic sites at the summit

MYANMAR TRAVEL GUIDE

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

M YA N M A R T O U R I S M MARKETING MYANMAR TOURISM MARKETING (MTM) is the marketing branch of Myanmar Tourism Federation. It was set up to support the organisation’s marketing, promotion and branding initiatives, helping promote Myanmar as a sustainable destination of choice.

We caught up with MTM’s Chairperson, Ms. May Myat Mon Win, to find out more about the organisation, and what makes Myanmar such a compelling country to visit.

Outlook Travel (OT): What have been the challenges and rewards of representing a country that has only recently opened its doors to tourists?

Ms. May Myat Mon Win (MW): As the country has been closed to the outside world for so long, infrastructure challenges and shortage of skilled labour are some of challenges we face 24 | Outlook Travel issue 03

Ms. May Myat Mon Win in the tourism sector. But now there are many training programmes and schools opening for the hospitality industry, and we hope the challenges of capacity-building will ease.

OT: What steps do you take to market Myanmar as a sustainable tourism destination?

MW: We believe sustainability is the key to the future of tourism in Myanmar. Destination management is needed to achieve sustainable tourism, which will contribute to jobs

and long-term growth in Myanmar.

The growth potential for tourism in Myanmar is immense – we need key destinations to be effectively managed and to create new innovative destinations as well.

Myanmar’s tourism sector is at an important stage between growth and sustainability. It is time for the government, private sector, civil society, development partners and local residents to join hands in identifying and addressing issues to support sustainable tourism.

OT: How easy is it for tourists to travel to and within the country?

MW: The Myanmar government has introduced new regulations to facilitate easier access for tourists visiting the country, the next step allowing us to open up to the world.

Tourists from Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Macau and several other

Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, Myanmar

Southeast Asian countries are now granted visa-free entry. Tourists from India, Mainland China and 11 other countries (including Australia and Switzerland) are now granted a visa on arrival. Citizens of over 100 countries are eligible for e-visas and can get approval within three days.

We do hope that these new regulations will ease access to Myanmar and will allow more travellers from around the world to discover the unique Myanmar culture, nature and most of all the hospitality of the people.

26 | Outlook Travel issue 03

OT: What are your organisation’s current goals?

MW: Myanmar Tourism Marketing is focussing on organising more media familiarisation trips, allowing travel journalists and influencers to visit the country and to share their experiences through the media.

For European travellers we are promoting nine enchanting discoveries (Kyaing Tong, Loikaw, Mergui Archipelago, Mogok, Mount Victoria, Monywa, Putao, Hpa An and Hsipaw) to take travellers deep into Myanmar’s hidden corners, and beyond the classic destinations of Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay and Inle Lake.

OT: Are there any interesting projects in the pipeline you wish to highlight?

MW: Sports and gastronomy tourism are some of the tourism types we want to emphasise in 2020. We are working on how to develop these types of tourism in Myanmar. MTM is always looking to promote Myanmar for new markets and for product development ideas.

OT: What trends are transforming the tourism industry in Myanmar and how are you responding to them?

MW: In the age of information technology, online promotion and digital

MYANMAR TRAVEL GUIDE

Above: A Myint ruins old city village in Chaung-U township near Monywa Left: Ruin of guardian statue in front of Mingun Pahtodawgyi pagoda

marketing trends are crucial in trying to advertise and attract tourists to Myanmar. Private and government stakeholders in the tourism sector are trying to adopt the use of technology and digital transformation.

OT: It was great to hear that the city of Bagan was designated a UNESCO world heritage site last July. Are there any other historic and cultural landmarks you recommend tourists visit?

MW: After years of challenges, UNESCO inscribed Myanmar’s ancient capital of Bagan as a world heritage site last year. It was a proud moment

for the people of Myanmar, as Bagan has immense historical significance – it’s the heart of the country. Along with the nine enchanting discoveries mentioned before, we would also like to recommend historic ancient cities such as Ava, Sagaing, Sri Ksetra and Beikthano.

a good way to connect people and to bring development and peace across the country for any race or religion.

As the last frontier of Southeast Asia, Myanmar is an enchanting country and its tourism has great potential for development.

OT: Are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in Myanmar?

MW: Myanmar is a hidden treasure, a destination bursting with magnificent monuments, beaches, glittering golden stupas and enigmatic ruins. And we continue to believe that tourism is

Myanmar Tourism Marketing Tel: +95-09-977204456 info.mtm@tourismmyanmar.com www.tourismmyanmar.org

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 27

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS

E AT: F OFROB DN GTEH TOTNRYAV R SI… RUA BE OLULREDA N ’ S B E ST B B Q J O I N T… Kaung Myat FOR BURMESE FOOD WITH AN U P M A R K E T T W I ST… Rangoon Tea House FOR LAKESIDE FINE DINING… SEEDS Restaurant and Lounge

F O R A C L ASS I C Y E T CO N T E M P O R A RY URBAN ESCAPE… Summit Parkview Hotel

SLEEP: F O R H I G H - E N D H OT E L S I N YA N G O N …

You can’t go wrong with a GCP Hospitality hotel, and the company has four fantastic properties in and around Yangon. For a start, there’s The Strand, a colonial heritage building with modern amenities and a century-long reputation for luxury. Its sister property, The Strand Cruise, is a luxurious boat with 28 cabins, which takes passengers on cruises along the Irrawaddy River. Inya Lake Hotel, located on the lakeshore in Yangon, offers luxurious rooms and excellent amenities including a large outdoor pool. Meanwhile, Hotel G is a colourful, contemporary urban hotel in Yangon’s downtown area. Great service is guaranteed, whichever property you choose.

28 | Outlook Travel issue 03

F LY: F O R A S E A M L E SS E X P E R I E N C E …

MAI Air is an international airline operating in Myanmar, flying to 17 destinations in Asia from Seoul to Kolkata. They have a seven-star rating from Airline Ratings.com and offer comfortable seats with seamless service. MAI Air is affiliated with the KBZ Group which includes the company Air KBZ, a commercial airline flying to destinations across Myanmar.

EXPERIENCE MYANMAR’S HERITAGE IN LUXURY & STYLE Discover The Strand Yangon, one of South East Asia’s leading luxury hotels since it was founded in 1901, and The Strand Cruise, a highly acclaimed 25-cabin river cruiser sailing Myanmar’s Ayeyarwady River offering 2, 3 and 4 nights itineraries between Mandalay and Bagan.

Enjoy up to 20% discount on Hotel & Cruise when reserving directly with us.

CAPTAIN@THESTRANDCRUISE.COM THESTRANDCRUISE.COM

INFO@HOTELTHESTRAND.COM HOTELTHESTRAND.COM

FOCUS ON

YA N G O N YANGON, MYANMAR’S CAPITAL, is an exciting city to visit; an eclectic mix of Buddhist temples, shopping malls and timeworn colonial architecture.

Wake up early and you’ll see red-garbed monks going on their morning alms walk. Pick up a bowl of mohinga – noodles in a hearty fish broth topped with coriander and crispy shallots – from a local stall for breakfast.

Take a stroll through the downtown area, where you’ll see some examples of colonial architecture including the red-bricked Secretariat, the seat of power for colonial Burma. The city’s most iconic landmark is the Shwedagon Pagoda, with an impressive, gilded 99-metre high stupa.

30 | Outlook Travel issue 03

For something a little more offbeat, head to the Yangon Drugs Elimination Museum. Housed in a brutalist building, it contains a series of solemn exhibits detailing the government’s efforts to stamp out drug use, as well as a surreal diorama detailing the dangers of substance abuse.

Yangon has the best dining scene in the country – as well as streets lined with snack stalls, you’ll also find upmarket restaurants serving Thai, Japanese and Indian cuisine.

Come nightfall, head to Chinatown’s 19th Street, where you’ll find atmospheric outdoor restaurants serving beer, cocktails and barbecued skewers.

MYANMAR TRAVEL GUIDE

Sule Pagoda

Chaukhtatgyi buddha temple in Bahan Township

Sule Pagoda

Main street Outlook Travel issue 03 | 31

Lephet thoke

Top Burmese foods to try in Myanmar With its reliance on sustainable local ingredients and its rich, salty flavours, Burmese cuisine is both unique and delicious HAVING ONLY RECENTLY opened up to tourists, the cuisine of Myanmar (formerly Burma) is not as well known to tourists as other Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand. Although it draws upon culinary influences from China, India and Southeast Asia, it also relies on local ingredients that make it completely unique. Here’s our top three Burmese dishes to try.

LEPHET THOKE One of Myanmar’s most famous foods is lephet thoke – a salad of fermented tea leaves. It’s made with sour, slightly bitter tea leaves, which are mixed with other vegetables such 32 | Outlook Travel issue 03

Khao suey

as sliced tomatoes and deep-fried beans, and served with garlic oil and chili. The fermented tea leaves are also eaten alone, often at the end of a meal. They are considered a stimulant, as they still contain caffeine.

Shan noodles

KHAO SUEY This delicious dish consists of a bowl of noodles swimming in a coconut milk-based curry. It’s served with an array of toppings such as hard-boiled eggs, potato sticks, sliced chili, fried garlic and onions and much more.

The broth is flavoured with Indian spices, which explains why this hearty, complex dish is popular in nearby countries such as India.

SHAN NOODLES The Shan are Myanmar’s second largest ethnic group – you can try their cuisine around Inle Lake and Mandalay area. Shan-style noodles are made by kneading rice flour with turmeric oil. They’re served with ground meat, chili and crushed peanuts, and often eaten with broth.

MYANMAR TRAVEL GUIDE

Get your FREE subscription to Outlook Travel magazine Like what you’re reading?

If so, head over to our website and you can sign up for a free subscription.

That way you’ll get our bi-monthly magazine sent directly to your inbox.

ISSUE 03

OMAN

Desert views and Bedouin culture

MALAWI

Africa’s warm heart

SIMPLE WAYS TO TRAVEL MORE SUSTAINABLY Five easy tips

YOUR TRAVEL GUIDE TO

ROMANIA

Interview with Stu McKenzie, award-winning photographer, army veteran and Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society

ROMANIA

army veteran and Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society Interview with Stu McKenzie, award-winning photographer,

travel magazine

YOUR TRAVEL GUIDE TO

Africa’s warm heart

MALAWI

Bedouin culture Desert views and

OMAN

Five easy tips

SUSTAINABLY TRAVEL MORE WAYS TO SIMPLE

www.outlooktravelmag.com/subscribe Australia • Bangladesh • Canada • China • Indonesia • Malaysia • Myanmar • Philippines • Singapore • Thailand • United Kingdom • United States • Vietnam

ISSUE 03

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 33

LANDMARK AT T R A C T I O N S

INLE LAKE This freshwater lake is encircled by green mountains, while gardens, temples and stilted houses float on its waters. It’s best known for its fishermen, who propel and steer their wooden boats using an oar with their leg.

BAGAN The ancient UNESCO city of Bagan was once the epicentre of the Pagan Kingdom – the remains of nearly 4,000 temples and pagodas survive to this day. Take a dawn hot air balloon flight over the city to experience the jaw-dropping sight of thousands of spires piercing misty sunrise skies.

34 | Outlook Travel issue 03

KYAIKTIYO PAGODA This Buddhist Pagoda is a wellknown pilgrimage site at the top of Mount Kyaiktiyo. The pagoda is perched on top of Golden Rock, a huge boulder covered with golden leaves. It appears to be perpetually about to roll down the slope of the mountain – according to legend it’s held in place by a strand of Buddha’s hair.

MYANMAR TRAVEL GUIDE

GETTING THERE AND AROUND MOST FOREIGN TOURISTS visiting Myanmar will fly into Yangon International Airport. Carriers such as AirAsia and Nok Airways operate frequent flights to destinations in Asia and the Middle East – one of the most frequent routes is to Bangkok.

The airport is also a hub for domestic airlines such as Myanmar Airways International, which operates regular scheduled flights within the country, to destinations like Mandalay, Myeik and Nyaung U (near Bagan).

Many tourists travel around the country using long distance buses. It’s also possible to hire a car and a driver, while many adventurous tourists hire bicycles (be warned, the frontier regions are mountainous). A more laidback option is to take a cruise down the Irrawaddy River from Yangon to Mandalay, taking in the sights on the way.

Within larger cities, such as Yangon, the best way to get around is by flagging down a taxi. Trishaws (or cycle rickshaws) are another way to travel short distances.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 35

OMAN

One of the Middle East’s most peaceful and welcoming countries, with craggy mountains, windblown deserts and endless beaches Writer: Dani Redd | Project Manager: Matt Cole-Wilkin

D

uring the rule of Sultan Qaboos (1970 to 2020), Oman was transformed from an internationally isolated country with just five kilometres of asphalt road to a peaceful, developed society. It’s now a Sultanate where a modern way of life is juxtaposed with a traditional, 36 | Outlook Travel issue 03

welcoming Bedouin culture. Tourist arrivals have doubled in the past decade, with more than 3.5 million tourists visiting in 2019.

Oman is a country of vast, rugged panoramas. Its craggy mountains soar to heights of 3,000 metres. Rub’ al Khali (the ‘Empty Quarter’) is a

desert of undulating red-gold dunes, covering 650,000 square kilometres.

There are areas of Oman’s coast where you can drive down endless beaches, stopping to camp on a deserted stretch of sand. People take camel rides, 4WD trips and even cycling excursions across these expanses.

OMAN TRAVEL GUIDE

The country also has an abundance of luxury lodgings, from five-star desert lodges to mountain hotels with infinity pools facing the peaks. Much of this accommodation is located on the Musandam Peninsula, which is nicknamed the ‘Norway of Arabia’ thanks to its dramatic limestone

mountains and deep glassy fjords.

The country also has a fascinating culture. The capital, Muscat, boasts a bustling souq, some absorbing museums and the Sultan Qaboos Mosque – an example of modernist Islamic architecture at its most lavish.

The rocky landscape is speckled with

ancient defensive forts. One of the most famous is Nizwa Fort, built in the ninth century with an imposing cylindrical tower, a labyrinth of passages and rooms, and views of the mountains from the ramparts.

Oman is a compelling blend of the traditional and the contemporary.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 37

OMAN TRAVEL GUIDE

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS THE MINISTRY OF Tourism aims to promote Oman as luxury tourist destination. Its vision: to provide efficient and effective services for Oman to become a top holiday and MICE destination by 2040, attracting 11 million tourists annually.

We caught up with Salem bin Adi Al Mamari, Director General of Tourism Promotion, to find out more.

THE MINISTRY OF TO U R I S M , O M A N

Outlook Travel (OT): How do you market and promote Oman?

Salem bin Adi Al Mamari (SM): Oman’s brand creates a united identity for an otherwise very diversified and attractive product. It is our belief that branding has enabled Oman to become and remain an enhanced environment for tourist attractions and investments.

38 | Outlook Travel issue 03

Salem bin Adi Al Mamari “Beauty has an address...” Oman’s brand strapline, is not a marketing soundbite – it has a much deeper meaning than that. It explains the

essence of Oman; four simple words that set us apart from our peers.

Beauty is what Oman offers for its residents and visitors. In addition, it encompasses the Sultanate’s ancient history, spirit and pursuit of development. The national brand has also inspired government agencies, communities, organisations and businesses that live, work and engage with Oman.

The bold brand mark is a mélange of the best Oman has to offer.

Expertly crafted, the mark draws

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat on a rich and vibrant colour palette which reflects Oman’s natural beauty. It’s inspired by the wonderful diversity that is Oman, such as Arabic calligraphy, marine exploration, local textiles and of course frankincense, which has been at the core of our culture and economy for generations.

Looking right to left, the brand mark can be interpreted as the sail of a dhow (purple), the turtle and rich marine environment (marine green), mountain terrain (light blue) and frankincense (light green).

OT: What are your organisation’s current goals?

SM: We have several current important goals. For a start, we wish to increase Oman’s visitors from the GCC and promote Oman as a luxury destination, alongside promoting

close cooperation between the government and the private sector.

We also wish to create community awareness, understanding and support for tourism development, as well as enabling more Omani citizens to reap the economic benefits of tourism, either through direct employment, conservation of heritage or investment in communities.

OT: How are you aiming to develop ecotourism in the country?

SM: The Government of Oman (represented by the Ministry of Tourism) is focussed on making sure that tourism develops in an environmentally friendly manner, so that the environment is preserved for future generations.

Nature reserves are distributed

throughout the Sultanate of Oman, from the Al Quram Trees Reserve in Muscat governorate to the Land of Frankincense reserve in Dhofar. The experience of watching turtles nesting throughout the night at the Scientific Center and Ras Al-Jinz Reserve in Sur is the perfect scientific tourism experience. It is worth mentioning that the Ras al-Hadd, which is a part of Ras al-Jinz Reserve, is the spot where you can witness the first sunrise in the Arab world every day.

In addition, Oman is a seasonal destination for migratory birds. An estimated 300 species can be seen throughout the year on Masirah Island and other locations. Regular dolphin watching cruises depart from the Musandam governorate in the far north, Muscat, and the Dhofar governorate in the south, while in Al-Wusta Outlook Travel issue 03 | 39

OMAN TRAVEL GUIDE

governate you can see Arabian Oryx, deer, desert foxes, Nubian and desert cats.

OT: Are there any interesting projects in the pipeline you wish to highlight?

SM: Yes, we have lots of exciting projects. Madinat al Irfan is the result of an exciting ambition to establish a new urban centre within Muscat. Situated near the new Muscat International Airport and enjoying excellent transport connections to the capital area and beyond, Madinat al Irfan will create a new downtown area for residents, businesses and visitors.

With Wadi Park as its spine, Irfan will be a city with public space at its heart. Madinat al Irfan will become an exemplar both locally and regionally, providing a model for urban development. Importantly, Madinat al Irfan will also become a catalyst for change in Oman; setting new benchmarks in terms of sustainability and urban design, providing public transport while creating a magnet for business, a centre for tourism and a great place to live and work.

Sultan Qaboos Port is a regeneration initiative that will connect the Muscat of yesterday with the vision of its tomorrow. The existing commercial port will be transformed into one of the region’s primary waterfront destinations and the capital’s tourism and economic gateway. It’s located in the Muttrah district, which has one of the oldest traditional souks in the Arab world. The waterfront

Arabian Oryx

40 | Outlook Travel issue 03

The industrial port of Muscat

will be transformed into a vibrant, active and high-quality public realm, while integrating and the natural historical surroundings and blending the traditional Omani aesthetics and heritage.

OT: Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Oman?

SM: Sharing borders with the UAE to the northwest and Saudi Arabia to the west, Oman is a breathtakingly beautiful country with unique adventures that will captivate travellers. As any tourist can attest, the blend of the old and the new in this part of the world is incredibly seamless.

Omani people are immensely proud of their ancient, frankincense-trading past as well as their unique traditions and culture. They have a strong sense of identity and love for country. While they preserve their heritage, they also embrace modern ways and new thinking. The capital Muscat, for instance, is home to big shopping malls frequented

by many citizens and residents alike. Fancy hotels and restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines, from budget-friendly to the most expensive, have dotted the city.

Also situated in Muscat is one of Oman’s most loved treasures, the must-visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Located on the other side of Muscat, Mutrah Corniche offers strollers the stunning view of the lovely seafront. The famed Rocky Mountains are the perfect backdrop for the corniche’s white buildings, mosques, and forts. Nearby is one of Oman’s oldest markets, the Mutrah Souq, where stalls sell frankincense and myrrh, incense burners, silver jewellery, turbans, and traditional lamps.

What makes the Sultanate stand out are its spectacular mountains, windblown deserts, stunning wadis, and a pristine coastline. Its many old mud hut villages, though most are now abandoned and in ruins, intrigue tourists. Misfat Al Abriyeen is one of the few ancient villages in the country that is still inhabited.

Additionally, Oman provides adventures in the rolling dunes of Sharqiya, the rocky mountains around Nizwa, and the sandy beaches of Sur. Forts and castles are among the country’s popular attractions. Built in 1670, Jabreen Castle resembles a sandcastle established in an oasis of date palms. Nizwa Fort, on the other hand, is popular for its massive circular tower.

OMAN TRAVEL GUIDE

The storied Bimmah Sinkhole is another must-visit place, especially for adventurers. Legend has it that the cavernous Bimmah Sinkhole was formed by a meteorite called Hawaiyat Najm, or ‘The Falling Star’.

When the limestone rock collapsed in on itself, a 131-foot-wide and 65-feetdeep crater in the coastal desert of Northern Oman with an aquamarine pool at the bottom was revealed.

There are many reasons to visit Oman. Exploring the Sultanate always leaves an imprint on visitors, who, after their unforgettable tour of the country and memorable experience, always come back for more.

OT: What are some of the country’s most unique landmarks?

SM: Our most famous landmark and principal place of worship is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, created using the finest craftsmanship and materials. Within the Main Prayer Hall, the pulpit overlooks space for a congregation of 7,000 people. They sit on what is considered to be one of the world’s finest Persian carpets in an area illuminated by Swarovski crystal chandeliers, reflecting the appearance of the mosque’s minarets.

These minarets act as a reminder of the five key elements of Islam: reciting the Muslim profession of faith; praying five times a day; giving to charity; fasting during the month of Ramadan; and, if possible, undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.

The National Museum is the Sultanate of Oman’s flagship cultural institution dedicated to Oman’s cultural heritage, showcasing Oman’s history from the earliest human settlement in Oman Peninsula some two million years ago to the present day, as well as offering glimpses into our future.

The Royal Opera House is the first of its kind in the Gulf States with over 1,000 seats in its main hall, occupying an area of 80,000 square metres and set among swathes of beautiful 42 | Outlook Travel issue 03

Bimmah Sinkhole landscaped gardens – it opened in October 2011. The design combines modern and traditional Omani styles, boasting impressive decorative lighting and breath-taking sculptures.

Musical, operatic and dance performances from local and international artists are staged here, establishing Oman as the classical music epicentre of the Gulf States.

OT: What challenges does the tourist industry in Oman face?

SM: One challenge we face is the instability of the political situation in the Middle East. The limited network of Oman airlines, especially the absence of direct flights from and to the global tourism markets targeted by the Sultanate, is another challenge.

Finally, some local communities do not accept tourism, and citizens are not always interested in working in the tourism sector.

OT: Are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in Oman?

SM: Despite the challenges, we remain optimistic. Tourism will bring additional economic prosperity, benefit the people of Oman and enhance

its nature and culture. Oman is committed to economic diversification to move away from an oil-based economy. Tourism offers an enormous opportunity for achieving this major objective. Tourism will bring five important socio-economic benefits: increased employment; mobilisation of investment; a contribution to the country’s GDP; development of local economies and tourism SMEs; and improved quality of life and confidence in the future.

As tourism grows, host communities throughout the Sultanate will benefit and their lives will become fuller and more prosperous as they develop new skills, find better jobs and set up enterprises throughout the country.

Tourism will also help preserve Oman’s precious cultural and natural assets and reinforce cultural expression, strengthening the local pride and identity of the Omani population.

It will strengthen the national brand, telling the world that Oman is an open, friendly, stable and peaceful place to visit, do business and invest.

The Ministry of Tourism, Oman info@omantourism.gov.om

Stay

Enjoy a night in the heart of the desert on your terms. Choose from our selection of elegant, traditional rooms and tents of varying styles, always maintaining the authentic Bedouin experience alongside our promise of comfort.

Experience

The Thousand Nights Camp offers you a variety of adventures and desert experiences from the exploration of its scenic terrains, enjoying adventurous sporting activities, to the breathtakingly peaceful moments one can only experience in this haven.

Dine

Let us bring the world to you, in a variety of dishes designed to suit different tastes, enjoy great tastes from our restaurants and cafe at the camp beneath the refreshing desert breeze and it’s breathtaking scenery.

Reservations reservation@thousandnightsoman.com | www.thousandnightsoman.com

OMAN TRAVEL GUIDE

IN FOCUS

M U S C AT OMAN’S CAPITAL, MUSCAT, offers you everything you could want from a city break – a great dining scene, fascinating cultural attractions and easy access to beautiful natural spaces. Located on the coast, it’s surrounded by beaches. Many of the city’s luxury hotels have oceanfront access – the Al Bustan Hotel’s private beach is the longest in the country, offering opportunities for kayaking, snorkelling and sailing.

Palace of al-Alam

44 | Outlook Travel issue 03

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque In Muscat, you’ll be perfectly placed to find out more about the region’s culture. Head to the National Museum opposite the Sultan’s Palace for interactive, well curated displays about Omani history. Bait Al Zubair is a popular private museum, showcasing Omani handicrafts and furniture in a restored traditional house.

Mutrah is one of the city’s most popular neighbourhoods. Stroll down the corniche, looking at the traditional

dhows bobbing in the ocean beyond.

You’ll love shopping for souvenirs at the bustling souk, where you’ll find an array of products from across the world – local frankincense, handmade Omani hats, embroidery from Kashmir and Nepalese jewellery.

In the evening, the city’s forts and palaces are illuminated. Enjoy dinner and drinks at one of the city’s many outdoor restaurants, overlooking the ocean.

The Best Place To Feel At Home

Only 4 KM to the city center of Nizwa.

Available Rooms: Single / Double / Triple / Suite / Family Rooms

Al-Diyar Hotel is an excellent choice for any traveling to Nizwa or Al-Dakhliya region, whether for Business or Pleasure. Designed to meet the needs of tourist and Businessmen, the Al-Diyar Hotel offers luxury rooms and Services that rival those of any International hotel.

BOOK NOW: T +968-25 412 402 | al_diyarhotel@hotmail.com | www.aldiyarhotel.com

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS

E AT: F OFROB E TUT EF RO S… RUSDUGCC LR EAV N TESLELA OD AND OCEAN V I E WS …

The Beach Restaurant FOR HIGH-END OMANI CUISINE… Al Angham Restaurant

SLEEP: F O R B E AC H E S , M O U N TA I N S A N D M I N I M A L I ST E L E G A N C E …

Muscat Hills Resort F O R LUXU RY S U R R O U N D E D BY D E S E R T DUNES… Thousand Nights Camp, in the heart of the Eastern Omani Sands, was recently awarded ‘World’s Best Luxury Desert Camp’ at the Luxury Hotel Awards.

You’ll stay in deluxe Bedouin tents and experience a mixture of high-class service and authentic experiences, such as music performances and a ‘shua’ meal.

F O R S U P E R I O R H OS P I TA L I T Y I N N I Z WA …

Al Diyar Hotel is renowned for its excellent service and comfortable, air-conditioned rooms. It offers two outdoor pools, free Wi-Fi, a cosmopolitan restaurant and a conference centre. It’s located a six-minute drive from historic Nizwa souq.

F LY:

Oman Airports is a government-owned company that manages and operates the civil airports in the Sultanate of Oman, providing on-ground services, terminal buildings, cargo buildings, runways, aprons, car parking and other facilities. Oman’s airports connect to 79 cities worldwide and see traffic of 17.7 million passengers.

F O R H I G H - E N D H E R I TAG E STAYS I N M U S C AT… Hilton Garden Inn Muscat

46 | Outlook Travel issue 03

OMAN TRAVEL GUIDE

M U S C AT H I L L S R E S O R T Muscat Hills Resort is nestled within the Al Hajar Mountains, a natural haven located within the beautiful private Al Jissah bay in Qantab, overlooking the clear Arabian Sea. The dramatic mountain range envelopes the sandy coves scattered across the stunning turquoise-hued waters home to a plethora of marine life. The resort is just a short distance from popular tourist attractions, including Mutrah Souq and the National Museum of Oman.

From fine dining to beachfront views, Muscat Hills resort offers guests everything they need for a holiday, private event or a beach day pass.

Muscat Hills Resort provides exclusivity and seclusion during your relaxing getaway. The 35 Bedouin-style beach huts are eco-friendly and just a few steps away from the ocean, some of which have panoramic sea views. Dive courses are also available for all levels, from beginner to instructor. All the courses are in line with PADI standards.

For the non-divers, the resort offers dolphin watching and snorkeling trips on a daily basis.

For further details muscathillsresort.com | +968 2485 3000

Hilton Garden Inn Muscat Al Khuwair Hilton Garden Inn Muscat Al Khuwair puts you right in the heart of everything this glistening city has to offer.Whether you are here for business, family escapade, history, or shopping our location has everything you need for a remarkable stay in the capital. Step inside the hotel and find stylish rooms with magnificent views of either the Al Hajar mountains or the vibrant neighborhood, world-class dining and modern facilities for business and relaxation.

The Brighthearted team at the Hilton awaits you.

Our Hotel

• The Hilton Garden Inn Promise™ • All day dining restaurant serving breakfast, lunch & dinner • Open, inviting lobby with Omani architecture • Juice Bar • To-go meals & snacks available 24/7 at The Shop • Complimentary fitness center

• Complimentary printing on-site • 3240 sq ft of meeting space which can accommodate up to 100 guests • 25 minutes’ drive from Muscat International Airport • Two rooftop infinity pools (one ladies only pool), kids club, tennis court and jogging trail in the hotel complex

Our Rooms • Complimentary Internet access • Coffee and tea brewers • Comfortable beds with clean, cozy duvets • Large work desk with adjustable lighting and ergonomic chair • Flat screen HDTV with a wide range of channels and video games • Hair dryer, iron and ironing board

• Refrigerators in all rooms and microwave (in suites) • 232 Digital Key and Digital Check-in enabled rooms

Tel +968 2251 5555 Email MCTAK_Reservations@Hilton.com www.HGI.com

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 47

PHOTO BY HELMUT PFAU, CC BY-SA 3.0

LANDMARK AT T R A C T I O N S AL HOOTA CAVE This cave is the only one in Oman developed for tourism; a series of ambiently-lit caverns studded with stalagmites and stalactites. Visitors are transported inside on a narrow-gauge railway and make their way along an 850-metre trail through the atmospheric interior.

SULTAN QABOOS GRAND MOSQUE Sultan Qaboos gifted this mosque to the nation after 30 years of rule. It’s an imposing piece of modern Islamic architecture, with golden domes, arches and engraved walls. Inside the cavernous prayer hall you’ll find a gorgeous hand-loomed Iranian carpet, measuring 70 by 60 metres.

48 | Outlook Travel issue 03

EMPTY QUARTER VIEWPOINT From this viewpoint, at the beginning of the Empty Quarter, you’ll see a sand corridor with dunes rising up dramatically on either side; their summits undulating all the way to the horizon. You’ll be blown away by the views of the world’s largest sea of sand.

OMAN TRAVEL GUIDE

Welcomes You to The

Sultanate of Oman Our expert Tour Designers don’t just develop a tour; they create an avenue where travelers can absorb the lives and surroundings of the Omani cultures.

Our tour Managers provide travelers with exceptional knowledge, warmth, adventure and comfort as you become immersed in a new destination.

Telephone: +968 24 03 33 24 Email: info@starvoyage.net Website: www.starvoyage.net

The Only Premium Institution in Oman Fully Specialised in Tourism and Hospitality

Discover Oman...

DIPLOMA & BSc Tourism & Hospitality Management

Tourism Marketing

Event Management

VOCATIONAL & SHORT COURSES: • Travel & Ticketing • Culinary Services • Food & Beverage • Etiquette & Protocol • Food Safety • Tour Guide... and more! www.otc.edu.om

+968 24512207

Business Enterprise (Service Management or Innovation & Entrepreneurship)

OTC also offers languages (Italian, German, Russian, French, Kiswahili, Mandarin and Farsi) along with tailor-made professional courses based on an employer‘s requirement(s). communication@otc.edu.om

omantourismcollege

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 49

LANDMARK AT T R A C T I O N S FORT NAKHAL This is one of Oman’s most famous forts, built in 1834 during the reign of Imam Said Bin Sultan on the remains of an ancient, pre-Islamic structure.

Interesting features include circular towers to hold firm against cannon fire, and spiked doors to prevent being battered open. There are stunning views from the ramparts over the surrounding plains.

BALAD SAYT Balad Sayt is a small, unspoiled mountain village that sees very little tourist traffic. It’s blessed with a spectacular location in between the mountains of Ad Dakhiliyah and Al Batinah regions. The mountainous location means it attracts adventure tourism fans.

50 | Outlook Travel issue 03

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE The Royal Opera House, located in Muscat, serves as the sultanate’s premier arts and culture organisation. As well as hosting performances from around the globe, it also offers an outreach programme alongside dining and shopping facilities.

OMAN TRAVEL GUIDE

MUTRAH SOUK This bustling indoor souk in Muscat is the perfect place for people watching and souvenir shopping.

Stalls display an array of handicrafts and jewellery from Oman and further afield.

GETTING THERE AND AROUND MOST TRAVELLERS WILL reach Oman by flying into Muscat International Airport, the largest and busiest in the country. It operates 71 direct flights to 31 different countries in Africa, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Passengers from Oceania can reach the country by transiting through Bangkok, while tourists from the Americas can transit through European transport hubs such as London Heathrow and Paris Charles de Gaulle.

It’s possible to travel domestically by air – Oman has airports in Salalah, Duqm, Sohar and Khasab. However, many tourists prefer to hire a car to travel between Oman’s landmarks,

Muscat International Airport taking in the desert landscapes. The Sultanate’s roads are sealed and of an excellent quality, making driving enjoyable.

Oman also has a reliable network

of air-conditioned buses, operated by Mwasalat. They travel between and within cities. Many larger towns and cities, such as Muscat, also operate metered taxis.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 51

THE TIFFIN BOX REGULAR

THE TIFFIN B OX Dani Redd’s regular column about Indian food

IN FRONT OF us were the jagged, rust-red peaks that characterise Ladakh, a remote, high-altitude desert region in North India. My mum and I were hiking the Markha Valley Trek, which follows the Markha River before winding up the mountains to Gongmaru La, a pass with an elevation of 5,260 metres. The entire

trek was taking place at ‘very high altitude’ (between 4,000 to 5,500 metres): at this elevation air pressure decreases, making it harder to take oxygen into your lungs. We’d delayed the trek by a day as my mum had developed symptoms of altitude sickness shortly after arrival: nausea, dizziness, and headaches.

This extreme exercise in mother-daughter bonding was completely my idea.

Our guide was Deachan, a slight woman doing a degree in rural development, and our porter was a woman named Angmo, who had taken the job to help improve her English. Both worked for the Ladakhi Women’s Travel Company, the only trek organisation staffed exclusively by women in the region.

The first day was slow-going, as my mum was still feeling dizzy and breathless. We walked past rocky slopes striped green, orange and purple, barely a person in sight. It was hard to believe that this remote region had once been an important stopping off point on the Silk Road, attracting traders from Tibet, China and the Middle East. But the Tibetan influence was apparent in the region’s Buddhist faith, and it also had a profound influence on the food culture,

THE TIFFIN BOX REGULAR

Mok moks. The Tibetan name for them is momos which we experienced first-hand.

At the end of the first day’s trek, we arrived at our homestay; a mud-brick house where water came from a hand-pump, electricity was provided

by solar panels and there was a long-drop toilet. We sat on cushions around low tables in the main room, drinking sweet tea from metal flasks.

Then came the task of cooking dinner.

I watched as Angmo made a dough from flour and water, and Deachan grated vegetables from the garden.

She cooked them in a pan with salt, pepper and cheese.

“What are you making?” I asked. ​“Mok moks. The Tibetan name for them is momos.” ​I watched as Angmo rolled out thin rounds of dough. She picked one up, placed a spoonful of dough in the middle of it, then twisted the dough and pinched it shut.

Naturally, I wanted a go. And of course, it was far more difficult than it looked. My mok moks were crude and childish in comparison to Deachan and Angmo’s, even though they both showed me their way of pinching the mok mok shut several times.

Everyone, apparently, had their own unique way of doing it. Mine seemed to involve the dough tearing and the filling poking out. But I got there in the end and put my clumsy offerings

At the end of the first day’s trek, we arrived at our homestay; a mud-brick house where water came from a hand-pump, electricity was provided by solar panels and there was a long-drop toilet.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 53

THE TIFFIN BOX REGULAR

inside the steamer with the other mok moks. They were placed on a simple woodstove to cook. Smoke from the fire and steam from the pan billowed out into the dim-lit room.

We ate the mok moks with a dipping sauce Deachan had made from grated tomatoes, garlic and chili. Despite, or perhaps because of the few ingredients used, they were delicious – the filling moist, rich and peppery, complimented by the sharpness of the sauce. Yet despite their simplicity, I knew they wouldn’t taste nearly as good if I tried to recreate them at home.

Sea buckthorn can be made into a juice or a syrup

‘TEMPERATURES IN LADAKH DROP TO -30˚C IN WINTER, MAKING FOR A SHORT GROWING SEASON. FOR THIS REASON, LADAKHIS HAD TO SUBSTITUTE THEIR DIETS BY FORAGING AND PRESERVING FOOD’ The next day, we spent the first couple of hours tracing the path of the river. On either side of the banks was a flourish of vegetation. Terraced fields of alfalfa and barley. Apricot, apple and walnut trees. ​“We dry the apricots and make a juice from them,” Deachan said. “And we also make baril out of ground up apricot stones and walnuts. You eat it with bread.”

54 | Outlook Travel issue 03

The Silk Road trade in Ladakh slowly dwindled as countries began to close and reinforce their borders.

The region suffered centuries of isolation and was forced to use only locally sourced ingredients.

This included cheese and milk from hardy livestock such as yaks, and vegetables such as potatoes, beans, radishes, spinach and carrots.

Temperatures in Ladakh drop to -30˚C in winter, making for a short growing season. For this reason, Ladakhis had to substitute their diets by foraging and preserving food.

As we crossed the glacial river on a rickety wooden bridge, Deachan pointed out some thorny plants with bright orange berries. ​“That’s sea buckthorn. We make it into a juice and also a syrup for the winter. It has a lot of vitamin C in.” ​We stopped to try the berries. They were so tart they made me suck in my cheeks, but they were curiously addictive.

A little later, I was surprised to see some plants I recognised. ​“Wild garlic?” I asked.

Quick-fix dishes like Maggi are popular

Wild garlic is used in pastes and sauces ​ eachan confirmed it.

D ​“Yes, we use it to flavour dishes.

And there are stinging nettles, which we use to make soup,” she said, pointing out a cluster clinging to Ladakh’s bare, rocky slopes. Another plant she pointed out was a wild caper bush – Ladakhis pluck the shoots and make them into a relish.

Not everyone in Ladakh is interested in maintaining this traditional way of life. Since opening up to tourists in the 1970s, a crop of international restaurants have sprung up in the regional capital of Leh, and shops selling convenience foods.

Nowadays, the traditional tea tents

dotted along the trekking route are more likely to offer Maggi instant noodles than fresh apricot juice.

The regional government is worried about people losing sight of their traditional way of life, but in villages with no running water or electricity, it’s unsurprising that quick-fix dishes like Maggi are popular. As someone who treats herself to a takeaway once a fortnight, I’m not judging.

Over the next few days, we continued trekking, passing surreal mushroom-shaped pinnacles and primeval folds of rock as we ascended into the mountains. Once we were above the treeline the vegetation was

sparse, consisting of little more than a couple of shrubs and the orange lichen that clung to the boulders.

By now, we were three days’ walk from the nearest road. We rarely encountered other trekkers. Instead we saw eagles circling on thermals above us, and rodents known as pikas scurrying over the arid land. Small herds of shaggy yaks ranged the rocky hillsides, seeking out clumps of vegetation.

On our penultimate night, we camped on a plain at an altitude of 4,841 metres, encircled by snow-capped mountains. As soon as the sun sank behind them, the temperature plummeted. We were in bed by 5.30pm, shivering despite our down jackets and thermals, sleeping bags and thick fleece blankets.

That night, I dreamed of a bowl of rich, creamy butter chicken. In the morning the inside of the tent was covered in frosted condensation and our water bottles were frozen solid. I felt a renewed sense of admiration for the people of Ladakh, and how they’d managed to subsist in such a remote, inhospitable region.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 55

TIROL You’ll find Alpine living at its finest in the Tirol region, where chocolate box towns are surrounded by meadows, forests and snow-capped mountains Writer: Dani Redd | Project Manager: Matt Cole-Wilkin

TIROL TRAVEL GUIDE

I

t’s hard to imagine a region more picturesque than the Tirol, an Austrian state renowned for its mountains (the province of South Tirol extends across the border into Northern Italy). In the winter you’ll find snow-dusted forests and some of the world’s best ski slopes. Come summer, the pretty Alpine villages are surrounded by wildflower meadows and glassy lakes.

The region attracts those looking for fresh air, a relaxing atmosphere and plenty of sporting activities.

It’s an epicentre for snow sports in the winter, and during the quieter summer season is visited by those who enjoy hiking and biking its hundreds of miles of trails. It’s also an epicentre for adrenaline sports. Area 47, the largest outdoor adventure playground in Europe, offers opportunities for white water rafting, bungee jumping and much more. is one of Austria’s most popular ski resorts – it’s a traditional village of onion-domed churches and wooden chalets, surrounded by well-known mountains such as Hahnenkamm.

After a day on the slopes, you’ll appreciate the region’s hearty cuisine, which includes dishes such as gröstl – fried onion, pork and potato – and knödeln (dumplings) stuffed with different fillings, like cheese and ham. And of course, no Tirolean meal is complete without a glass of schnapps.

Tirol offers plenty of cultural destinations such as the capital, Innsbruck, which is renowned for its opera performances and gothic architecture. There are plenty of gorgeous historic towns in the region, famed for their twisting medieval alleys and majestic fortresses – Hall is one of the most well-preserved. Meanwhile, Kufstein boasts an 800-year-old castle and a narrow street, the Römerhofgasse, lined with buildings that have facades decorated with elaborate frescoes.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 57

TIROL TRAVEL GUIDE

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

CONVENTION BUREAU TIROL THE CONVENTION BUREAU Tirol was founded 15 years ago, an initiative of the National Tourism Board Tirol. Since inception, it has doubled its numbers of partners, and has helped establish a MICE industry in this beautiful alpine region.

We sat down with Veronika Handl, Head of Convention Bureau Tirol, to find out more about the organisation.

Outlook Travel (OT): What are the organisation’s current goals?

Veronika Handl (VH): An important part of the convention bureau’s work is to guarantee the quality of its partners to clients, giving security and generating trust.

The Convention Bureau Tirol is a centre of excellence and an interface around congresses, conferences, seminars, incentives and events of all kinds that take place in Tirol. In doing so, we are building bridges between our regional, national and international customers and our more than 60 partners from the Tirolean congress and conference industry.

58 | Outlook Travel issue 03

Veronika Handl, Head of Convention Bureau Tirol OT: What are some of the country’s most unique landmarks?

VH: We in Tirol are really spoiled.

From everywhere we have a stunning view of the mountains. Unlike anonymous big cities, this is truly unique.

Surveys show that conference participants – especially in these digitally intense times – are increasingly interested in incomparable places and meetings in a rural, quiet

environment. This is what distinguishes Tirol in particular – it is a place of spiritual energy where you can successfully combine meetings with nature and regeneration. In Tirol, nature or the mountains are separated from the meeting room only by a pane of glass. Green grass and fresh air can be included in the conference as part of the programme – examples include a teambuilding activity in the forest, or a lunch break spent in the mountains.

From relaxing activities such as a herbal hike to experiences with a high adventure factor such as bobsledding in the Olympic ice channel, sitting on the trembling beam, climbing on the dam or a trip to Area 47, in the largest outdoor playground for adults in Europe, everything is possible.

Tirol offers unique contrasts. It’s possible to ski on the glacier in the morning and to swim in the lake in the afternoon. There are activities for all levels and preferences. Tirol embodies a certain laidback attitude and a high-altitude charm.

TIROL TRAVEL GUIDE

OT: What are conference guests looking for?

VH: Conference participants expect information, education, entertainment, exchange and networking, all in an inspiring environment, at best garnished with beautiful experiences at the venue – in short, a personal gain for each individual. They expect to encounter places, people and experiences that that will trigger their emotions and be remembered in the long term.

example, we aim to be included in the Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDS), which is considered an international benchmark for sustainable business tourism and event destinations. Moreover, we are supporting our partners in gaining “green meeting” or “green events” certifications. We ensure we inform our clients about these environmentally friendly options when they’re organising an event in Tirol.

OT: How do you ensure your conventions are environmentally friendly?

OT: What trends are transforming the MICE industry in the Tyrolean region and how are you utilising them?

VH: As a “region of short distances” we are proud of our excellent public transport, giving our clients the chance to be totally independent from transfers onsite. This preserves environment, budget, time and nerves.

For the next few years, we have set ourselves major green goals. For

VH: The meeting industry is changing rapidly and continuously. Some trends can be foreseen, others arise spontaneously and unexpectedly.

Innovation, flexibility and creativity are essential in the development, planning and execution of successful meetings and meetings.

We support our Tirolean meeting partners in developing in terms of trainings, trend-scouting, product development and quality checks.

OT: What makes Tirol a remarkable meeting destination?

VH: Tirol’s congress and conference landscape has multifaceted event venues. The spectrum ranges from modern congress centres in the middle of the mountains to universities, conference hotels in the countryside to extraordinary locations such as castles, mountain peaks, art galleries and other unique architectural masterpieces. This uniqueness and proximity to nature, which we can always guarantee in Tirol, is highly appreciated by our customers.

Convention Bureau Tirol www.convention.tirol/en Outlook Travel issue 03 | 59

IN FOCUS

INNSBRUCK IN THE REGIONAL capital, Innsbruck, nature and culture sit side by side, for the city is surrounded by the jagged Nordkette Mountains. The historic centre is picture-postcard pretty, dominated by architectural marvels such as a Baroque cathedral and the Golden Roof, a gothic oriel with a gleaming roof and lavish murals. The lavish Imperial Palace, set in gorgeous landscape gardens, is also worth a visit.

Innsbruck, like Vienna, is known for its coffee house culture, with lots of historic cafés where you can stop for a caffeine hit and an apple strudel.

It also has plenty of restaurants, markets and bars, thanks to a young student population, while boutique hotels provide travellers with old world luxury.

60 | Outlook Travel issue 03

The city is also renowned for its fantastic museums. The Glockengiengiesserei Grassmayr is an intriguing bell-making museum, where you can witness the ageold practice of bells being cast.

Meanwhile, the Panorama Museum

includes telescopes and interactive screens that allow you to look more closely at the Innsbruck of the present and the past.

The city makes for a fantastic winter retreat, with Christmas markets and other events adding some festive cheer. It’s easy to access the nearby mountains to go skiing and snowboarding. The famous Bergisel ski jump – which has been used in several Olympic events – is a popular destination. You can eat at the panoramic restaurant even if you don’t want to brave the downhill run!

But it’s a great summer destination too, and an excellent base for fresh air activities in the surrounding mountains - there’s a programme of free hiking events held from June to September.

TIROL TRAVEL GUIDE

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 61

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS

E AT: FOR TYROLEAN CUISINE IN A CO N V E R T E D S C H O O L H O U S E …

Schulhaus F O R AU ST R I A N FA R E I N I N N S B R U C K ’ S O L D TOW N …

Ottoburg

SLEEP: FOR A TYROLEAN CHALET WITH A S C A N D I T W I ST… Valluga Hotel F O R A U N I Q U E U R B A N H OT E L I N INNSBRUCK… NALA Hotel

Above: Kufstein Old Town with medieval fortress on a rock over the Inn river, the Alps mountains, in dramatic sunset light

T R AV E L :

F O R S E A M L E SS T R A N S F E R S …

Tirol’s premier transport company, Four Seasons Travel, provides comfortable and convenient transfers between airports such as Innsbruck, Salzburg and Munich to various ski resorts and other destinations in Tirol and other parts of Austria.

It offers a variety of different transport classes, ranging from a seat on a transfer bus to a private, luxury limousine.

F O R S U P E R C A R TO U R S O F T I R O L A N D T H E D O LO M I T E S . . .

Colcorsa FOR RIVER SURFING IN INNSBRUCK...

Up Stream Surfing

62 | Outlook Travel issue 03

TIROL TRAVEL GUIDE

LANDMARK AT T R A C T I O N S SWAROVSKI KRISTALLWELTEN Even if you aren’t interested in fashion, you’ll be blown away by a trip to Swarovski’s Kristallwelten (which translates as ‘crystal world’). The labyrinthine Chambers of Wonder contain a treescape of crystals designed by Alexander McQueen, while in the whimsical gardens you’ll find a carousel adorned with 15 million crystals.

ÖTZI DORF An archaeological open-air park established on the site where Ötzi, Europe’s oldest mummy, was excavated. The museum brings his Neolithic world to life with animal enclosures, thatched huts and traditional craft displays.

HALL This gorgeous medieval town is the best preserved in the region. Picture pastel-hued houses, winding alleyways and picturesque onion-domed churches. There’s no shortage of hiking and skiing opportunities in the surrounding mountains, and the town is located a convenient 10 kilometres from Innsbruck.

64 | Outlook Travel issue 03

GETTING THERE AND AROUND THE TIROL REGION is served by Innsbruck Airport, just 2.5 miles from the city centre. It runs scheduled and charter flights to destinations across Europe (and some further afield, such as Moscow), with more flights during the winter months. Another option is to fly to Munich International Airport and hire a car to reach the Tirol; a journey which takes just over two hours.

Tirol is also well-connected by rail

to other cities in Austria, Germany and Switzerland. A train journey from Salzburg to Innsbruck takes just under two hours, meaning these two spectacular Austrian destinations can be covered in a single holiday.

The public transport network within the region is excellent,

covering buses, trams and railways.

Tirol is divided into different transport zones; ticket prices depend on the number of zones you travel through, and daily and weekly regional passes can be purchased.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 65

MONTENEGRO TRAVEL GUIDE

MONTENEGRO Thanks to its shimmering coastline, craggy mountains and timeworn towns, Montenegro is rapidly emerging as Europe’s new ‘it’ destination Writer: Dani Redd | Project Manager: Matt Cole-Wilkin

W

hen you travel to Montenegro, you’ll wonder why you left it so long. Lord Byron said of the coastline that it was the planet’s “most beautiful encounter between land and sea”. Sheer stone mountains plunge down to crystalline waters. The coastline is speckled with sandy beaches, while ancient walled 66 | Outlook Travel issue 03

towns hug craggy coasts – the Bay of Kotor is particularly eye catching. Watersports such as kayaking, sailing and stand-up-paddleboarding are particularly popular. And unlike other stretches of the Mediterranean, in many places it remains remarkably underdeveloped.

Inland you’ll discover deep canyons, primeval forests and

dizzying mountain heights. It’s easy to get off the beaten track in one of Montenegro’s nature reserves, whether you prefer hiking, biking or horse riding. Tara Canyon is the country’s top destination for white water rafting.

Alongside its nature offering, Montenegro is steeped in a fascinating cultural heritage. It stands at a crossroads

between east and west, having been ruled by the Romans, Ottomans, Venetians and once forming part of the Soviet Union. Explore Roman villas with airy courtyards and mosaic floors, Orthodox monasteries with gilded interiors, minareted mosques and austere fortresses. This influence is apparent in the picturesque, pastel-hued coastal towns.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 67

H OW TO S P E N D 72 H O U R S IN MONTENEGRO Montenegro Travel’s perfect three day itinerary, taking in everything from pristine beaches to UNESCO-designated historic towns

CHANGEABLE LANDSCAPES AND fantastic diversity in a relatively small geographic area mean there’s lots to see and do in Montenegro. Experience the country’s wild beauty with this varied three day itinerary.

DAY ONE TIVAT – KOTOR – CETINJE – BUDVA (83 KILOMETRES) Rent a car from Tivat Airport and drive to Tivat. Stroll down the Pine Promenade, along the water’s edge. Have breakfast at one of the luxury restaurants in the most beautiful marina in the Adriatic – Porto Montenegro – and marvel at the magnificent private yachts.

Continue your trip towards the Old Town of Kotor, located 10 kilometres away from Tivat. Stroll the narrow, UNESCO-protected streets, past ancient piazzas, churches and museums. You can walk along the iconic city walls for an unforgettable view.

68 | Outlook Travel issue 03

From Kotor, head towards Cetinje. The road connecting them was built in 1884; it has 25 serpentine bends and offers a breathtaking view of the Bay of Kotor.

You will arrive in the mountain village of Njegusi, the birthplace of the most important person in Montenegrin history – the ruler and Prince-Bishop of Montenegro, Petar II Petrovic Njegos. Visit a 100-year-old family restaurant, Kod Pera na Bukovicu, and taste its Njegusi prosciutto and homemade mead. Climb Mount Lovcen to the Njegos Museum, located at an altitude of 1,660 metres.

Continue your journey towards Cetinje, the capital of Montenegrin spirituality; a city of museums, monasteries, old embassies and consulates, and home to the Royal Castle.

Taking the new road, you can reach Budva from Cetinje in 35 minutes. Apart from its beautiful beaches, Budva is famous for its excellent restaurants and offering the best entertainment in the Adriatic.

MONTENEGRO TRAVEL GUIDE

DAY TWO BUDVA – BAR – ULCINJ – OSTROS – PODGORICA (165 KILOMETRES) After you have your first morning coffee on the seafront in Budva, head towards the unique island hotel, Sveti Stefan. When you see this place – which has accommodated world-famous celebrities such as Sophia Loren – you will understand why the rich and famous decide to come here.

Your trip continues towards Bar, the largest coastal town and port in Montenegro. After exploring the oceanfront, head to the Old Town – it preserves the spirit of old Turkish towns with its stone cobbles, many traditional and authentic restaurants, and the oldest olive tree in Europe.

Continue your journey south towards Ulcinj, the city of long sandy beaches. Go down to the Town Beach, located next to the Old Town.

Take a walk around the Old Town and listen to the guide’s story about the pirates and Cervantes, a prisoner of the dungeon you are looking at.

Continue towards Ada Bojana, the place where the River Bojana meets the sea. Visit one of the restaurants located along the river. If it is summer, take a swim and enjoy drying off on the warm sand.

Drive along the shore of Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans and, when you descend to lake level, visit the scenic little town of Virpazar. Enjoy a glass of local wine in a riverfront tavern, or try some local cuisine – specialities include smoked, marinated or “drunk” carp, and fish soup.

You will be in Podgorica by the evening. Get acquainted with the capital by taking a walk through the centre. Cross the River Moraca by one of the pedestrian bridges, and relax in one of the fine restaurants or pubs, which can be found on every corner.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 69

Biking Durmitor, Susica Kanjon

Black Lake, Zabljak Durmitor

70 | Outlook Travel issue 03

MONTENEGRO TRAVEL GUIDE

DAY THREE PODGORICA – BIOGRADSKA GORA – DURMITOR – NIKSIC – PODGORICA (289 KILOMETRES) Start early, at least at 7:30, as you have a long tour ahead of you. You are about to experience an incredible adventure.

From Podgorica, head towards Kolasin. The mountains are waiting for you.

Going through the dramatic canyon of the River Moraca, the view on your right hand side of the rocky canyon and the roaring river will give you an adrenaline rush. Stop for a walk at the mountain town of Kolasin – enjoy a local tea in the comfortable foyer of the Hotel Bianca Resort & SPA. Further on your road leads you towards Biogradska Gora, one of the last three virgin forests in Europe, and a nature reserve since 1878. In the very heart of the virgin forest, at an altitude of 1,094 metres, Lake Biogradsko is hidden.

From Biogradska Gora, your journey continues towards Durmitor. Pass the black pine forest, Crna, and Djurdjevica Tara Bridge, which rises 150 metres above the deep canyon. If you are brave enough, you can zipline across the River Tara – an adrenaline rush for even the most intrepid traveller.

Continue upwards towards Zabljak, the most popular town in Durmitor National Park. The town is small, which makes it easy to for you to find your way around it.

Durmitor Bridge on the River Tara

Capital city Podgorica, Millenium Bridge

Take a walk along the path leading to the Black Lake.

If you plan a longer stay, you can hike to one of Mount Durmitor’s peaks, such as popular Bobotov Kuk, 2,523 metres above sea level. Get more information about skiing and hiking in the region by visiting the Tourism Organization of Zabljak, in the town centre.

You will reach Podgorica from Zabljak in around two hours. Stop off in Niksic for a meal in a restaurant on the shore of Lake Krupac.

You’ll see so many amazing sights over these actionpacked three days, and there’s still so much left to experience. We guarantee that you’ll want to return to Montenegro again soon. www.montenegro.travel Outlook Travel issue 03 | 71

MONTENEGRO TRAVEL GUIDE

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

T H E T O U R I S T O R G A N I S AT I O N OF PODGORICA

THE TOURIST ORGANISATION of Podgorica was established in 2005, following the realisation of public interest in tourism. Its goal: to develop and promote tourism offerings in the city of Podgorica and its surroundings, which include the nearby Lake Skadar National Park and the picturesque Morača River Canyon.

Outlook Travel sat down with Tatjana Popovic, Director of the Tourist Organisation of Podgorica, to find out more about its vision.

Outlook Travel (OT): What are your organisation’s current goals? Have you got any projects in the pipeline you wish to highlight?

Tatjana Popovic (TP): The Tourism Organisation of Podgorica is working on a tourism development strategy for 2025. According to this strategy, over the next 10 to fifteen years Podgorica will become a recognised tourist destination which offers its cultural, historical 72 | Outlook Travel issue 03

and traditional values ​​through high quality, professionally designed products, experiences and activities.

Renovating the city centre – equipping the green islands in the city and the area along Morača (and other rivers) – creates zones of experience and attracts residents and visitors.

Podgorica is the youngest capital in Europe, and it has a strategic goal – to become a recognised as a MICE destination in accordance with the masterplan for Montenegro’s tourism development in 2020. The MICE industry is in important contributor to regional and national economies, and Podgorica, right now, is in category M (medium meeting destination), which means that it can host up to 1,200 congresses and meetings.

OT: Why has the amount of visitors to Podgorica increased in recent years?

TP: The increase in overnights and arrivals can be attributed to a variety of factors. In recent years the

investments in tourism infrastructure development projects by the government in the capital city has increased.

We have new hotels and corporation brands, high quality restaurants which offer not only international, but also our traditional food. We are aware that the hotel industry is one of the most important structural elements of a tourism destination – without these, no destination could be competitive.

The marketing efforts have also been improved by the Tourism Organisation of Podgorica in partnership with the National Tourism Organisation of Montenegro and the private sector.

Another major contributing factor to the increased overnight arrivals is additional airline capacity, with new airlines offering seasonal direct flights.

Finally, there are a large number of festivals and events all year round.

Each year Podgorica hosts hundreds of business tourism events ranging from small meetings, corporate events and incentive groups to large international association conferences.

OT: Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Podgorica?

TP: Podgorica has diverse attractions, a rich culture and natural attractions with a segmented tourist offer.

Thanks to its extraordinary central position in the country, on the same day it is possible to visit the seaside in the south or mountains in the north, as well as Lake Skadar and the “circuit around Korita” – Montenegro’s first panoramic road. Just four kilometres

MONTENEGRO TRAVEL GUIDE

WELCOME HOME IN MONTENEGRO Welcome to exciting experiences, exquisite cuisine, Acquapura SPA and tailor-made service Welcome to a relaxing stay and a variety of outdoor- and water sports activities Welcome to the outstanding Adults Only Falkensteiner Hotel in Budva on the Adriatic coast

falkensteiner.com/montenegro

Podgorica has a strong luxury offering, with high standards of accommodation, restaurants, events and high-end shops.

The city of is waiting to welcome tourists who want to discover gorgeous landscapes and rich cultural heritage, to taste divine local products and wine, and to enjoy wonderful moments in this hospitable and safe country.

OT: Are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in Podgorica? from the city centre is the archaeological site Doclea, which is the biggest Roman site in the Balkans, and known as “Montenegrin Pompeii”.

The region is also well known for having the biggest vineyard in one complex in Europe, Ćemovsko Polje, and a gorgeous wine cellar Šipčanik, owned by Plantaže.

goal is to maintain the continuity of increasing the number of tourist arrivals and overnights, and to strengthen the image of Podgorica as an attractive MICE destination.

What we definitely need is to involve all segments in the tourism sector, and in synergy with them create new innovative tourism products with a focus on active holidays and local culture (including authentic products and hospitality). We also need to continue strengthening our promotion through digital communication channels.

TP: Yes, we are. Podgorica has a strategy for development as a smart city, which will help us to use modern technology for tourism promotion and offers. We will continue to improve the tourism offering in Podgorica using creative and innovative solutions.

Depending on the characteristics of the global tourism industry, our Outlook Travel issue 03 | 73

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS

E AT: F OFROB DO GN E T ETNREAV …I N E A N D F R E S H RUM G REILNL E CR US IS S E A F O O D… Konoba Feral F O R KOTO R ’ S B E ST S E A F O O D D I S H E S …

Galion

DO: F O R AC T I O N - PAC K E D E XC U R S I O N S I N D U R M I TO R N AT I O N A L PA R K …

Durmitor Adventure

SLEEP: F O R A N A D U LTS - O N LY G E TAWAY I N B U DVA …

Falkensteiner Hotel Montenegro F O R LUXU RY V I L L AS O N T H E B U DVA RIVIERA… Ananti Resort, Residences & Beach Club

74 | Outlook Travel issue 03

F O R B OAT TO U R S O F L A K E S KA DA R …

Skadar Lake Cruises

MONTENEGRO TRAVEL GUIDE

IN FOCUS

PODGORICA Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ

Ottoman clock tower

NiagraFalls

Crnoevich River

Millenium bridge over the river Moraca

PODGORICA, MONTENEGRO’S CAPITAL, is located in the south of the country, a mere 30 kilometres from the Albanian border. It’s not a city renowned for its architecture or atmosphere. Streets are lined with brutalist tower blocks and new mall developments. But scratch beneath the surface and you’ll discover a buzzing nightlife, interesting art galleries and a rich culinary and cultural history.

Stara Varos, the city’s old town, was built by Ottoman Turks and still maintains traces of its architecture.

The recently restored Osmanagić Mosque is one of the area’s most picturesque buildings. Petrović Palace – the former home of Montenegro’s ruling family – is also worth a trip. The pink mansion is set within landscaped gardens and houses an art gallery showcasing art from Yugoslavia and beyond. Head down to the Ribnica River to check out the remains of a fifth century Roman settlement, with a bridge renovated under Ottoman rule.

A popular outing is to Plantaze’s Cemovsko Polije Vineyard

(Montenegro’s largest wine producer). Visitors can tour the vineyard on a miniature train and taste wines with local canapes of marinated carp and prosciutto from Njegusi village.

The city is also an ideal base to explore Montenegro, with plenty of stunning natural scenery within easy reach. The dreamy Lake Skadar is just a 20-minute drive away. This vast body of water is surrounded by forested hills, the shores dotted with quiet beaches and timeworn villages. As a protected area, it’s one of Europe’s top habitats for birds.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 75

BAY OF KOTOR

LANDMARK AT T R A C T I O N S

Peacock-blue waters are encircled by mountains in this breathtaking bay, known locally as ‘Boka’. Gorgeous medieval towns are dotted around its edge, along with idyllic beaches, making it a great spot for swimming and sightseeing.

STARI GRAD One of Budva’s top attractions is it’s Stari Grad (Old Town), one of the oldest cities on the Adriatic Coast. It’s a picturesque city of marble streets and venetian mansions, which has been rebuilt after being damaged by two earthquakes in 1979 – head to Citadela for spectacular sea views.

76 | Outlook Travel issue 03

MONTENEGRO TRAVEL GUIDE

OSTROG MONASTERY This brilliant white monastery has been hewn into a cliff-face 900 metres up. It is one of the most important Orthodox Christian sites in the Balkans, attracting almost a million pilgrims annually.

ST GEORGE ISLAND This small island is located in the Bay of Kotor, near the town of Perast. It’s dominated by a 17th century church, built on the remains of a 9th century benedictine monastery. The island is shrouded in myths – it was supposedly cursed by the Roman Pope after an atrocious crime was committed on its shores.

GETTING THERE AND AROUND TIVAT AIRPORT IS the main international gateway into the country. It flies to 31 destinations in 17 different countries, all of which are based in Europe. Travellers from outside Europe will have to travel via other high-traffic airports such as Istanbul, Amsterdam or Frankfurt. Another option is to fly into busier Dubrovnik

Airport, located a mere 20-minute drive from the Croatia-Montenegro border (and around an hour from the Bay of Kotor).

There are no domestic flights available within the country, but it’s only a three-hour drive from one side of the country to the other. Montenegro has an efficient bus network connecting

all major destinations. However, renting a car is a more popular option with tourists – there are some breath-taking drives.

Most towns in Montenegro are compact enough to be explored on foot.

Greater Podoriga has an inexpensive local bus network. Private taxis are also available to hire in most towns.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 77

ROMANIA This fascinating Eastern European country has so much to offer, from clifftop castles to atmospheric medieval mountain towns Writer: Dani Redd | Project Manager: Jordan Levey

R

omania is a country of remote mountain passes, of quiet medieval villages and hauntingly atmospheric forests. It’s a country that still, in places, feels unexplored.

The country is bisected by the Carpathian Mountains, craggy stone peaks surrounded by forests inhabited by brown bears. You can take a guided tour to special bear hides where you can observe them in the wild. The 78 | Outlook Travel issue 03

Danube Delta, one of Romania’s eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is another great spot for wildlife watching.

Comprising nearly 6,000 metres of rivers, lakes and canals dotted with islands, it boasts over 5,500 species of flora and fauna, including wildcats, wolves, Egyptian white pelicans and white-tailed eagles.

Romania’s architecture is equally fascinating, reflective both of its communist legacy and position at the

ROMANIA TRAVEL GUIDE

crossroads between different between Roman and Ottoman Empires. The city of Brasov offers up pastel-hued squares of medieval houses, the gothic spires of the Black Church and soviet tower blocks. Sighisoara, the best-preserved medieval town in Europe, has colourful houses and cobbled streets and appears to have come from the pages of fairy tale. However, it’s the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the ruthless ruler who inspired the legend of Dracula.

Other architectural highlights include the painted monasteries in Bucovina, characterised by their colourful exterior frescoes, austere clifftop castles and the gaudy palaces built by members of the country’s Roma minority, many of which are unfinished. As you visit the country’s towns, monuments and museums, you’ll slowly peel back the layers of its chequered past. The eerie, sublime landscapes will remain in your mind long after you return home.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 79

ROMANIA TRAVEL GUIDE

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

F E D E R AT I O N O F T H E H O T E L INDUSTRY OF ROMANIA THE FEDERATION OF the Hotel Industry of Romania (FIHR) was the first tourism association to be established in Romania after the fall of communism in 1989. It was founded in April 1990 by a group of visionary hoteliers, and from the very beginning has represented the interests of the hotel industry.

The organisation’s initial vision was to be a strong and credible voice of the industry, to support its interests in relation to both the business environment and the authorities.

Professionalism, trust and solidarity are the values that underpin FIHR. We spoke to the President of FIHR, Calin Ile, about the organisation’s goals, visions and the challenge of the coronavirus.

Outlook Travel (OT): Your organisation recently celebrated its 30th anniversary. What are the most important things it has achieved for the tourism industry in Romania in the last three decades?

Calin Ile (CI): We have always acted to support the industry and believe we have achieved a lot. We have provided support to the industry through the difficult period of shifting from communism to a privatised, market-driven economy. We have constantly interacted with the authorities to maintain a supportive fiscal level for tourism – we now have one of the lowest VAT levels in Europe.

Another thing we’re proud of is the education and support we’ve provided for the tourism workforce through classes, training programmes 80 | Outlook Travel issue 03

professionalism of the Romanian workforce and as a consequence, the level of service offered by our properties.

But all this can only be achieved if our association is growing, and for that reason we are very much focussed on strengthening the capabilities of the FIHR. OT: Are there any interesting projects in the pipeline you wish to highlight?

and collaborations with tourism schools. We have just launched a new series of online classes with our international partner Winsedswiss.

Over the 30 years we’ve also come up with many ideas to promote Romania as a tourist destination, through branding initiatives and programmes such as Experience Romania, Flavours of Romania, Wild Carpathia and many others.

CI: Our new project of online training programmes is for us a way to be closer to the new trends in the education industry.

One of our main projects is to set up a system of active, effective destination marketing organisations (DMOs) in Romania. This will ensure that the promotion of Romania will be done in a private public partnership and not only by the state or local administration, as it is today. This is a priority for us , and we have used a lot of resources to be successful in this ambition.

OT: What are your organisation’s current goals?

OT: Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Romania?

CI: Our main goal is to be affiliated to HOTREC (a European umbrella association representing hotels, cafés, restaurants and bars in Europe) in order to harmonise our policies in hospitality with the ones in Europe.

We are continuously collaborating with local and national authorities to put tourism on all priorities of the future Romanian economy. We also intend to improve the level of

CI: There are many reasons to come here, but let me just mention three of them. First, for Romanian authenticity. It is a country with unspoiled nature and well-preserved villages, with diverse flora and fauna, breathtaking landscapes and traditional food.

You’ll learn about a simpler way of life, although at the same time there are plenty of Black Sea resorts where you can enjoy summer parties.

Calin Ile

Stone paved old streets with old houses in Sighisoara fortress under the evening sunlight, Transylvania region

Wonderful city centre with Council Square in Brasov, Transylvania Famous ski resort in the Carpathians, Poiana Brasov

ROMANIA TRAVEL GUIDE

Carved portrait of Dacian king Decebal on Danube river, Iron Gates Natural Park

Medieval Saxon village Copsa Mare, Transylvania Second, for its people. Interacting with the locals is a great experience – Romanians are very welcoming people, who love to have guests.

Finally, because it’s worth it.

Within three hours’ flight from most European cities, offering a high level of services and attractions for a reasonable price, you’ll be able to explore a unique destination.

OT: What are some of the country’s most unique landmarks?

CI: I would say Transylvania, as it has all the ingredients to become the Tuscany of Eastern Europe with its nature, wines, forests, citadels and good food. The Danube Delta is another unique attraction: you can go birdwatching, fishing, enter into ancient traditions and experience the local way of life.

Bucharest is also an attraction, being a lesser known city with a mixture of historical influences, 82 | Outlook Travel issue 03

Transfagarasan Balea glacier lake in the Fagaras mountains the confluence between east and western Europe – something that has left its traces on architecture, food and culture.

OT: What trends are transforming the hospitality industry in Romania and how are you utilising them?

CI: We are a country with one of the highest internet speeds, so digitalisation is affecting the hospitality industry, like everywhere in the world.

‘Developing’ is also a good word to describe the actual evolution of Romanian tourism; we are constantly capturing new areas, and new operators are appearing every year in the market. As we are quite a new actor in global tourism, we have the chance to position ourselves differently, and this means creativity and diversification.

OT: What challenges does the tourism industry in Romania face?

CI: The coronavirus pandemic is a

major challenge for tourism operators all over the world. We are very much affected as an industry, and we have to transform and reinvent the way we act.

But as this is valid for all countries, we are all on the same level now. This could be an opportunity for us to be more visible and more active in one of the most beautiful sectors of the worldwide economy.

We will pass together through this crisis, people will start to travel again and we will be there to welcome them.

I am optimistic we have all a country needs to be a well-known international actor in tourism. What we need is good organisation and confidence in ourselves to enter the game.

Federation of the Hotel Industry of Romania Tel: +40 21 300 91 00 office@fihr.ro www.fihr.ro

ROMANIA TRAVEL GUIDE

IN FOCUS

BUCHAREST BUCHAREST IS ROMANIA’S energetic and resilient capital. After suffering the ravages of heavy bombing during World War II and the brutalist urban planning of communism, the historic centre is being refurbished to its former glory, and there are still plenty of belle epoque villas, gothic churches and renaissance mansions tucked away down quiet streets.

The exquisite Romanian Athenaeum has a colonnaded façade, a 41-metre-high-domed roof and an interior painted with frescos of Romanian history. Meanwhile, the vast Palace of Parliament – started by former Communist dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu in 1984 and still unfinished by his execution in

1989 – is a testament to the cult of the personality. Boasting more than 3,000 rooms, this chunky edifice is the world’s heaviest building. The National Museum of Contemporary Art is housed in the southwestern wing, and boasts an eclectic collection of Eastern European art.

The city boasts many other interesting museums, including the Art Collections Museum, which

displays a collection of paintings and handicrafts donated by the most prominent aristocratic families of Romania. The Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum is an open-air museum located in Herastrau Park, showcasing traditional houses, farms, windmills and churches from across the country.

Bucharest also boasts a great nightlife, with plenty of hip neighbourhoods and rooftop bars.

Lipscani is the epicentre of many a night out. It’s Bucharest’s oldest district, with plenty of edgy clubs, bars and cafés housed in ornate buildings. Floreasca is another up-and-coming neighbourhood, with an abundance of restaurants, wine bars and manicured parks.

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS Amazing Transylvanian touristic village with saxon fortified church, Biertan

E AT: F O R A H I P R E STAU R A N T I N A F O R M E R PRINTING HOUSE… Energia

DO: F O R A S C I - F I T H E M E PA R K I N A SA LT MINE… Salina Turda

F O R AU T H E N T I C R O M A N I A N FA R E I N B U C H A R E ST. .

Torna Fratre

SLEEP: F O R B E AC H F R O N T LUXU RY… Hotel Vega is a resort on Mamaia Beach, on Romania’s stunning Black Sea coast. You’ll love the modern facilities with a vintage touch, and relaxing on the large hotel’s private beach. Alongside high end accommodation the hotel features a spa, several restaurants, a rooftop bar and a watersports centre.

F O R W I L D L I F E WATC H I N G T R I P S TO S E E B E A R S A N D WO LV E S …

Absolute Adventure

F O R A B O U T I Q U E H OT E L I N B U C H A R E ST… The Mansion Boutique Hotel

84 | Outlook Travel issue 03

Vega Hotel lies only a few steps from the sea shore and the construction, design and interior decorations are inspired by the classical Feng Shui elements of fire, earth, water and air. In order to create harmony of space, the hotel rooms were decorated in balanced shades of red, brown, navy blue and white.

As our guest, you will discover that Vega is a wonderful experience combining discrete luxury and a welcoming character, a location where different tastes and desires are satisfied harmoniously.

Mamaia 900001, Constanta - Romania Email: sales@hotelvega.ro Phone: 004 0241 607 607 www.hotelvega.ro

ROMANIA TRAVEL GUIDE

LANDMARK AT T R A C T I O N S BRAN CASTLE One of the country’s most impressive sites is Kaiteur Falls (the largest single-drop waterfall in the world), where water gushes in torrents off a 250-metre high cliff. The falls are surrounded by ancient jungle and can be reached via plane or an adventurous five-day hike.

TRANSFĂGĂRĂŞAN ROAD The British motoring programme Top Gear once voted this as the world’s most exciting length of road.

Spanning 90 kilometres across the southern section of the Carpathian Mountains, between the Moldoveanu and Negoiu peaks, the road offers plenty of hairpin turns and spectacular views. One of the best attractions along the route is glacial Lake Bâlea.

This sprawling building in the centre of Iași has an eclectic style incorporating elements of neo-gothic, art nouveau and neo-baroque design. Covering an area of 34,000 square metres, it’s said to have 365 rooms – one for every day of the year. It’s possible to tour the palace and visit any number of the four museums it houses: the Ethnographic Museum, Art Museum, History Museum and Science & Technical Museum.

86 | Outlook Travel issue 03

PICTURE BY IASIISWORLD

THE PALACE OF CULTURE

GETTING THERE AND AROUND BUCHAREST AIRPORT (ALSO known as Henri Coanda International Airport) operates flights to 115 destinations across 37 different countries, most of which are in Europe. However, it’s also possible to get direct flights to several destinations in Canada, the Americas and the Middle East.

If you’re short on time, you can take domestic flights to different cities in Romania. The national carrier, Tarom, operates regular flights between Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca, Iaşi, Sibiu and more.

It’s also possible to travel between

cities via train. Romania’s rail network links most major cities, and provides a reliable method of transportation.

Make sure you take the Intercity (IC) trains, which are the fastest and most comfortable.

For those looking to visit destinations more off-the-beaten track, then hiring a car is recommended.

Romania has plenty of scenic, high-altitude stretches of road such as the Transalpina and Transfăgărăşan Road, which will provide a memorable experience for motorists.

In general, Romanian cities have a good public transport infrastructure.

Bucharest has a metro system as well as a network of trams, buses and trolleybuses. To use above-ground transport, buy an Activ or Multiplu card from one of the adjacent kiosks and load it with credit. You’ll need to purchase a separate ticket to use the metro (from one of the ticket counters at any metro station).

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 87

S I M P L E WAY S T O T R AV E L M O R E S U S TA I N A B LY Although reducing your carbon emissions while travelling might seem difficult, our five easy tips will show you how easy it can be Writer: Dani Redd

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL FEATURE

I

n the past few decades, global warming has gone from being perceived as “liberal alarmism” to a fact verified both scientifically and visually, in documentaries and photographs. Slowly but surely, some people are beginning to adapt their behaviour, taking steps such as carpooling to work and buying local produce. But what about when it comes to going on holiday?

Although many tour operators and hotels bill themselves as “ecofriendly” and “sustainable”, it sometimes feels like these are buzzwords being bandied around. And is flying completely off the cards?

Fortunately, we’ve worked out a few simple tips which will enable you to travel more sustainably without having to compromise on quality or convenience.

FLY LIKE A NERD Flights produce greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide from burning fuel, which contributes to global warming.

According to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), an economy-class flight from London to New York emits an estimated 0.67 tonnes of CO2 per passenger. To give some context, the average metric tonnes of CO2 emitted per capita in Zambia is around 0.3.

Feeling guilty? The ‘Flygskam’ or (‘flight-shame’) movement started in Sweden in 2018 when several prominent Swedes decided to sign an article giving up flying. The movement aims to shame people into stopping taking flights, because of their negative impact on the environment. And it appears to be having an effect – state-owned airport operator Swedavia reported that domestic flights in Sweden dropped by nine percent and overall air traffic by four percent in 2019.

Some people are happy to go on a “flight diet”, cutting down on the amount of flights they take overall.

But to stop flying entirely is a lot more

difficult. Some people need to fly for business or visit family across the world, while others are unwilling to miss out on escaping the cold winters or monsoon summers offered by flying.

Dan Rutherford, Programme Director at the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), acknowledges how hard it is to stop flying altogether. He suggests: “Fly like a NERD. N stands for new aircraft.

E points to flying in economy class.

R stands for regular. D stands for flying direct. These tricks will reduce the CO2 linked to your trip and steer airlines to adopt lower-emitting aircraft, routes, and configurations in the future.”

New aircraft are more energy-efficient, as are regular-sized aircraft (in comparison to oversized jets or very small regional aircraft). Flying direct will save the extra CO2 emitted by extra take-offs, landings and diversions. Meanwhile, more expensive seats take up more space and weight on the plane, while first and business class is never completely full.

Rutherford believes you can reduce your carbon footprint by 20 to 45 percent with these four simple hacks.

He also hopes that if this consumer behaviour becomes widespread, more airlines will move towards lower-emitting planes and routes.

TAKE THE TRAIN One solution for long-distance travel is to take the train. Eurail estimates that doing so reduces your carbon footprint by 66 to 75 percent compared to travelling by car or plane.

In Europe – which has an efficient high-speed rail network – journey times can be equivalent to catching a flight.

It takes three hours 19 minutes to travel from Paris to Amsterdam by train, and just over three hours to fly (this includes travel to and from the airport, but not the time it takes to check in). The website Ecopassenger estimates that flying from Paris to Amsterdam emits 97.3 kilograms of CO2, while taking the train will only emit 9.6.

But asides from the reduced environmental impact, there are a lot of other reasons why you might consider taking the train. For a start, you have a lot more freedom to move around than on a flight – you can get up and stretch your legs, head to the bar for a drink or the buffet car for some food. You’ll get to take in the views outside your window as you wind through the countryside, instead of the world flashing by below you. What’s more, a seat on a train can be surprisingly luxurious, especially in comparison to a cramped seat on an economy flight.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 89

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL FEATURE

THREE OF THE WORLD’S BEST RAILWAY JOURNEYS Venice to London on the Orient Express Step back in time with a journey on the recently restored Orient Express, an iconic train that symbolises the Golden Age of rail travel. The trains, which are managed by luxury travel company Belmond, have decadent, mahogany-panelled suites and carriages decorated in an art deco style.

Service is impeccable and the food rivals that of a Michelin-star restaurant. Enjoy a brunch of lobster and scrambled eggs, or gourmet lunches of langoustines and herb-crusted lamb. The scenery is just as stunning – you’ll travel past the Italian Dolomites and snow-capped Swiss Alps.

PHOTO: BY PATRICK JANICEK

WEB: www.belmond.com/trains

Xining to Lhasa on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway This extraordinary route connects mainland China to Lhasa in Tibet, a journey which takes over 24 hours.

Since being completed in 2016, the railway has set several world records, including the world’s highest railway station (Tanggula Mountain Station) at 5,072 metres. The railway is at such a high elevation that oxygen is pumped into the cabins to prevent altitude sickness.

While the Qinghai-Tibet train might lack the opulence of the Blue Train or the Orient Express, it still offers sleeper compartments where you can stretch out in comfort and privacy.

The dining car serves delicacies from China and Tibet, including popular dishes such as roast pork and kung pao chicken.

It’s the scenery that really steals the show here, though – you’ll travel through parts of Tibet that have rarely been seen. The still, glassy waters of 90 | Outlook Travel issue 03

sacred Cona Lake. The jagged, snow-capped Tanggula Mountains.

Yaks grazing the yellow grasslands under cornflower blue skies. In this case, the journey is just as exciting as the destination.

WEB: www.chinatibettrain.com

Pretoria to Cape Town on the Blue Train The Blue Train travels on a 31-hour journey of 1,600 kilometres between Pretoria and Cape Town, passing mountains, veldts and vineyards.

You’ll make a stop in Kimberly, a former mining town steeped in cultural heritage, where you’ll have a chance to look around and visit mining complex museum Big Hole.

The Blue Train is renowned for its opulent carriage suites, some of which even contain a jacuzzi bath.

Dining is all-inclusive – head to the lavish dining car for a fine-dining feast of dishes such as sirloin steak or line-caught fish.

WEB: www.bluetrain.co.za

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 91

Isle sur la Sorgue

Each trip relies on working with small-scale, local operators, thereby benefitting local communities, and staying in low-impact accommodation.

“We want to create travel itineraries that contribute positively to local communities and the natural environment, and at the same time offer the best travel experience for the traveller.

By working together with local initiatives like Resirest, Backstreet Academy and I Like Local we are able to increase our impact much more quickly and efficiently,” said Sakia Griep, the organisation’s CEO.

Luberon village

CHOOSE A RESPONSIBLE TOUR COMPANY For those who prefer to go on tours instead of travelling independently, good news – many tourism companies are making real efforts to reduce their carbon footprint and be more sustainable. Recently, 78 92 | Outlook Travel issue 03

travel companies came together to form ‘Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency’. They have each vowed to develop a climate emergency plan and reduce the total carbon emissions per trip they operate.

In 2019, Better Places Travel launched its Positive Impact Trips.

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL FEATURE

STAY IN AN ECO-FRIENDLY HOTEL If an ‘eco-friendly’ hotel or retreat conjures up images of compost toilets and bug-ridden rooms with no electricity, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. With more and more travellers looking for environmentally friendly accommodation, even the most upmarket hotels are responding to the demand.

Many hotels with green credentials have sustainability and environmental certification. One of the most common is LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).

Hotels with LEED credentials generate less waste, and work to conserve energy and water. You can also look out for hotels that are GSTC-certified, meaning that the Global Sustainable Tourism Council has designated them as being sustainably managed and having a low environmental impact.

Glacier Express, Switzerland

One of the most environmentally friendly resorts in the world is the Brando, an eco-luxury resort located on Teti’aroa, an island in French Polynesia. It has been built using local and recyclable materials, relies entirely on renewable energy and uses an innovative air conditioning system that runs on water from the deep sea. With its opulent spa, spacious villas with private pools and pristine island surroundings, it shows that ‘green’ can mean ‘luxurious’.

If you don’t have the time to trawl through the internet looking up the sustainability certifications of different hotels, then there are several eco-friendly travel booking websites that have done the work for you. Eco BnB offers a wide range of accommodation, while Green Pearls focusses on high-end sustainable offerings.

TAKE A ‘STAYCATION’ Staying close to home when you go on holiday feels imperative in the wake of the coronavirus. But it also means that you’ll dramatically reduce your carbon footprint, as you won’t be taking long-haul flights. It will be more economical on your wallet too, as you won’t be having to pay for transportation or any sundry items, such as adaptors or extra toiletries. It also requires a lot less planning – hop in the car on Friday night and you’ll arrive at your destination a couple of hours later.

The idea of a staycation might bore you, but once you start researching, you’ll be surprised at the diversity of environments and activities close to home. Our office in Norwich is less than two hours from London on the train, and only an hour to the windswept Norfolk Coast, where you’ll find the UK’s largest seal colony at Blakeney Point.

CHILE

In this elongated South American country you’ll discover deserts and glaciers, remote islands and idyllic beaches as well as a captivating culture Writer: Dani Redd | Project Manager: Krisha Canlas

A

narrow, 4,270-long ribbon of land stretching from the peaks of the Andes to the fjords of Patagonia, Chile is a country of diverse, rugged beauty.

The sparse red dunes and glinting salt pans of the Atacama Desert – the Valle de la Luna, named after its lunar landscape – is particularly otherworldly. Then there’s the rugged volcanic peaks and blue glacial lakes of Torres de Paine National Park. You can even take a cruise through

94 | Outlook Travel issue 03

the ice fields at the southernmost tip of Chile, towards Antarctica. Hike, bike or go horse riding across this spectacular wilderness.

But Chile isn’t just a country for nature lovers. The capital, Santiago, is an energetic city of hillside parks and well-heeled restaurants, late-night beer halls and eccentric museums. Valparaíso is a seaside town of timeworn beauty, with an air of spontaneity that has long attracted

CHILE TRAVEL GUIDE

Beautiful Patagonia landscape of Andes mountain range, winding road and lake at Torres del Paine National Park

artists and writers like Nobel-winning poet Pablo Neruda.

Those in the know will be aware that Chile is one of the world’s top wine producers. Tour its fertile valleys and terraced vineyards – visit the Leyda Valley for pinot noir and the Limari Valley for white wines and pisco brandy.

The food culture is as diverse as the landscape. Try ceviche, raw fish cured in lemon juice and served with onions, chili and coriander. Or empanadas stuffed with

pino, a mixture of ground beef, onions, raisins, olives and hard-boiled eggs. Contemporary Chilean chefs are really putting the country on the map, rediscovering indigenous ingredients and marrying them with fine-dining techniques.

By turns eccentric, otherworldly and soulful, and with striking, varied landscapes, Chile is a country you won’t forget in a hurry.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 95

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

N AT I O N A L T O U R I S M S E R V I C E ( S E R N AT U R ) CHILE’S NATIONAL TOURISM Service (Sernatur) was created in 1975 with the purpose of researching, planning, monitoring, promoting and coordinating tourism activity in Chile. Over time, the country saw increasing amounts of visitors, and tourism increased in economic and social importance. Sernatur’s institutional objectives gradually began to increase – it started working on strengthening ties between public and private sectors, and establishing initiatives to allow for the deployment of tourism in Chile.

Today, the National Tourism Service is a public entity recognised for its role in promoting and disseminating the development of tourism in Chile.

We caught up with Andrea Wolleter, National Director of Sernatur, to find out more about the organisation.

96 | Outlook Travel issue 03

Outlook Travel (OT): What are the institution’s current objectives?

Andrea Wolleter (AW): Sernatur is a public entity responsible for promoting and disseminating the development of tourism in Chile. Our main strategic objectives are to execute programmes based on the National Tourism Strategy, fostering the sustainable development of tourism activities, encouraging the industry’s specialisation, diversification, quality and competitiveness and promoting national tourism destinations and attractions.

OT: How do you protect and promote the country’s wildlife areas?

AW: Our work is focused primarily on sustainability as a guiding force, from the perspective of public policies and

promoting the development of new tourist destinations, products and services.

Tourism development in national parks and other protected wildlife areas in Chile has a high potential for growth, with 78 percent of international tourists choosing to visit our country because of its nature.

Our protected wildlife areas represent an enormous diversity of landscapes, history and species throughout the country. The natural heritage protected by these areas is considered to be of great importance by the government, which has proven its commitment to sustainable tourism development in both national parks and protected wildlife areas by investing significantly in public infrastructure and special resources for tourism service providers, as well

CHILE TRAVEL GUIDE

as allocating funds to promote these destinations.

We have also forged closer alliances with other public entities like the National Forest Corporation (Conaf) and the Ministries of National Assets and the Environment.

Together we coordinate action plans that highlight and improve management and infrastructure in protected wildlife areas, expanding tourism offerings and diversifying experiences offered for Chilean and foreign tourists.

OT: Are you working on any interesting projects you want to tell us about?

AW: In recent years, Chile has been working hard to ensure a tourism offer that is distinctive, inclusive, sophisticated and developed under sustainability criteria according to the category assigned to the country, both in terms of the number of tourists that arrive each year and the distinctions it has received at the global level.

We have also been promoting national tourism destinations and attractions both inside and outside the country, to contribute to Chile’s economic, social and cultural development through government policies and programmes.

We recently launched the international campaigns, “Chile, Where the Impossible is Possible”, and “Welcome to Adventure Tourism”, which will be deployed in strategic markets to promote the country as a must-see destination thanks to its unique landscapes and the diversity of tourism experiences it offers, and as the best venue for adventure sports in the world. At the national level, we have an active campaign “Choose Chile”, to encourage Chileans to travel domestically.

travellers. We have beautiful desert valleys and high plateaus in the north, thousand-year-old glaciers in the southernmost places on earth, stunning forests and lakes nestled at the foot of magnificent volcanoes, islands full of legends, and many more attractions to be discovered in every corner of the country.

What really captures tourists’ attention are the contrasts. Our visitors are amazed by such an incredible diversity offered by a single country.

We have the driest desert in the world, Patagonia and Antarctica, and we produce exceptional wines whose terroir can be toured by visitors.

In central Chile, you can ski in the morning and enjoy the coast in the afternoon.

And what really stands out is its adventure tourism offer – Chile has been recognised numerous times and by different media outlets. For those who love nature and adventure tourism, our country offers a variety of options from the north to the south.

Our country also offers a wide range of tourism experiences, including astro-tourism in the north, wine tourism in central Chile, indigenous tourism throughout the

country, as well as nature, culture and gastronomy.

OT: With respect to your designation as the Leading Adventure Tourism Destination in South America during the last few World Travel Awards, what adventures does Chile offer?

AW: Chile is not only the Leading Adventure Tourism Destination in South America, a distinction we have been given during the past five consecutive years by the World Travel Awards, but we are also currently the Leading Adventure Tourism Destination in the World, a title we have achieved for four years in a row, and this fills us with a deep sense of pride.

The country offers more than 4,000 kilometres of coastline, mountains over 6,000 metres high, the driest desert in the world in the north of Chile, rushing rivers to the south, and over a hundred protected wildlife areas including national parks, reserves and monuments, making Chile a truly unique country.

Adventure tourism is on the rise and mobilises millions of people around the world. Nearly 30 percent of foreigners who have visited Chile state that they have participated in some kind of adventure activity.

Top: W-Circuit Torres Del Paine with Glacier Grey in the background. Pictured: Wild Cougar (Puma concolor concolor) often seen in Torres del Paine National Park

OT: Why should people visit Chile?

AW: Because of the large diversity of experiences available for all types of Outlook Travel issue 03 | 97

OT: What challenges does the Chilean tourism industry face?

Queulat National Park OT: What trends do you see transforming tourism in Chile? And how are you leveraging them?

AW: Our promotion strategy is aligned with global trends that demand transformative and authentic experiences. We believe that Chile offers the chance to experience a bespoke trip while truly connecting with unique landscapes and the charm of our people. We are the perfect destination for an enjoyable vacation.

Another trend we have witnessed is that current tourists demand that the entire offer be digitalised. If we consider the growing interest in our country around the world, this is extremely relevant. We are making efforts to work with the industry so that both hotels and the market in general are prepared to receive these modern, connected tourists.

Increasing numbers of tourists are seeking out unique experiences that offer greater contact with the community, enabling them to try local foods and learn about their customs.

In recent years, we have seen an increasing preference for sustainable products and services, alongside authentic Chilean experiences.

Travellers around the world are willing to pay for services that are developed under sustainability criteria. This option increased from 45 percent in 2011 to 55 percent in 2014, and we expect that this figure has continued to rise since then.

As a response to this interest, over 145 lodging and tourism operator services in Chile have obtained the S 98 | Outlook Travel issue 03

“IN RECENT YEARS, WE HAVE SEEN AN INCREASING PREFERENCE FOR SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES, ALONGSIDE AUTHENTIC CHILEAN EXPERIENCES” Seal, a distinction that identifies tourism companies that meet the global sustainability criteria established by the World Tourism Organization.

In more general terms, the promotion of innovation, quality and sophistication in our different products is a strategy aimed at increasing our competitiveness. Likewise, strengthening company and human capital capacities for better management and quality of services is part of the actions we are also promoting to attract more tourists.

Pucon, in the south of Chile

AW: President Sebastián Piñera’s administration has proposed a response to the challenges faced in the ever-changing and defiant current scenario, which requires us to have a strategy to meet consumer demands and respond to market dynamism.

Our priority has been focussed on advancing in terms of innovation and digitalisation of the tourism offer, and for this, we have designed a strategy to respond to the new demands of consumers who have moved more towards digital spaces. This new digital traveller requires both the public and private sector to quickly adopt the tools offered by new technologies.

We want to use technology to modernise our tourist information offices and adopt the use of big data for decision-making. We also plan on activating regional public-private work groups to improve our coordinated and associated work throughout the country.

For these reasons, we have incorporated a new innovation and technology pillar within the National Tourism Strategy as a key element to drive and promote the digitalisation of tourism in Chile.

The place to meet where warm, modern and elegant merges to receive each guest with a close and efficient hospitality at the same time, it’s what’s offered

by Pettra Hotels.

HOTEL PETTRA SANTIAGO Its spacious rooms and places with avant-garde design, added to the exquisite Chilean and international cuisine offered by its restaurants, make Pettra Hotels the ideal place to get to know the different attractions of Chile.

Comandante Malbec 12.851, Lo Barnechea, Santiago, Chile.

Email: centralreservas@hotelespettra.com Phone: 800 363 100

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS

SLEEP: FOR AN URBAN EXPERIENCE WITH A B R I T I S H V I N TAG E T W I ST… NH Collection Santiago Casacostanera F O R A F I V E - STA R E X P E R I E N C E I N SA N T I AG O… Pettra Santiago Hotel is one of the most contemporary and comfortable hotels in the capital, offering amazing views of the Andes. It offers 105 well-equipped suites and guest rooms. Relax in the opulent Kibo Spa or enjoy of taste of Chilean flavours at Malakita Restaurant.

E AT: F O R S O U L F U L , R U ST I C C H I L E A N CUISINE… Como Agua Para Chocolate

F O R I N N OVAT I V E TA K E S O N I N D I G E N O U S I N G R E D I E N TS …

Boragó

DO: FOR DESERT THRILLS… Sandboard San Pedro F O R S E A KAYA K I N G I N PATAG O N I A N FJ O R DS …

Yak Expediciones

100 | Outlook Travel issue 03

CHILE TRAVEL GUIDE

Plaza de Armas

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 101

CHILE TRAVEL GUIDE

IN FOCUS

SA N T I AG O ENCIRCLED BY MOUNTAINS and bursting at the seams with unique cultural attractions, Chile’s capital is an essential stop on the South American itinerary. Stay here for a week and you’ll barely scratch the surface of what’s on offer.

For a start, Santiago has some gripping museums. Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos is a carefully curated museum exposing the human rights violations and ‘disappearances’ that occurred under Chile’s brutal

military government from 1973 to 1990. Meanwhile, Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino showcases cultural exhibits from pre-Columbian cultures. These include early Andean textiles, Mayan stone columns and vomit spatulas used by Amazonians to empty their stomachs before ingesting psychoactive substances.

Another intriguing cultural offering is La Chascona, one of Pablo Neruda’s three houses – as he was fascinated by the ocean the dining room was

built to resemble a ship’s cabin.

Santiago is an enjoyable city to explore. Barrio Bellavista is the city’s bohemian quarter. The walls of the buildings are splashed with colourful street art, and the pavements lined with café chairs and tables.

There’s a different quirky boutique or art gallery around each corner.

Meanwhile, Providencia and Las Condes are the city’s most upmarket neighbourhoods, offering plenty of luxury hotel options.

Top: Santiago Metropolitan Park Cable Car and Santiago aerial skyline with the always prominent Costanera skyscraper. Above: View of Plaza de Armas. Left: Santiago prides itself on its many excellent cafes.

Above right: Vera Cruz Parish Church at Lastarria neighborhood. Right: Cerro Santa Lucia in Downtown Santiago

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 103

CHILE TRAVEL GUIDE

LANDMARK AT T R A C T I O N S EASTER ISLAND Although this remote island is a Chilean territory, it’s actually located in Polynesia, in the South Pacific. The island is most well-known for its hundreds of moai, stone statues of human figures with oversized heads.

DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK Death Valley is in the Atacama Desert. It’s an area of towering red sand dunes and waterless ravines, extinct volcanic craters and desert oases. More intrepid travellers visit here to try out sand-boarding down the dunes.

PARQUE NACIONAL TORRES DEL PAINE The granite pillars of the Torres del Paine rise almost 2,000 metres above the Patagonian landscape.

This national park offers some of the best panoramas in Chile, of rugged mountains towering over brilliant blue lakes. You can even hike across a glacier here, or kayak right up to the icebergs bobbing in Grey Lake.

104 | Outlook Travel issue 03

Historical city Valparaiso

GETTING THERE AND AROUND SANTIAGO AIRPORT (ALSO known as Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport) is the busiest in Chile, and the gateway into the country for most international travellers. It offers flights to 62 destinations in 20 countries across Oceania, Asia, America and Europe.

This includes 16 domestic routes. The mostXxxxxxx popular destination is Puerto de xxx xxx Montt – axxxxx gateway xxxx xxxx to the Andes and the Patagonian fords – to which there xxxxxxxxx are 545 flights per month.

The easiest way to get around the country is by flying. LATAM is a popular Chilean airline that offers weekly deals. However, those with more time to explore can take

advantage of the country’s economic and reliable network of long-distance buses. Hiring a car or motorcycle will enable you to visit more off-the-beaten-track locations. The Pan-American highway (which runs the length of the country) is in good condition, but smaller roads are sometimes unpaved.

There are plenty of transport options for travelling shorter distances or within cities. Take a colectivo – a minibus taxi running on a fixed route like a bus – or a metered taxi. Both Santiago and Valparaiso have commuter rail systems, and the former has an efficient metro.

Van driving over bridge, Carretera Austral, Patagonia, Chile The Chile road network is very good Outlook Travel issue 03 | 105

COLOMBIA TRAVEL GUIDE

C O LO M B I A

From its vibrant cities to its sparkling beaches, its soaring mountains to Amazonian jungles, this South American country will captivate you Writer: Dani Redd | Project Manager: Krisha Canlas

Bogotå is one of South America’s most eclectic and interesting cities

COLOMBIA TRAVEL GUIDE

T

he South American country of Colombia encompasses an astonishing diversity of landscapes, from Andean peaks to Amazonian rainforests, and the breathtaking Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Its vast grasslands, Los Llanos, are known as the “Serengeti of South America”. Its high-altitude plains, the páramo, intrigue with their fields of strange-shaped succulents, while the island of San Andrés beguiles with its azure coves.

Colombia attracts adventure tourists by the droves, looking to climb, hike and bike their way through the varied terrain. San Gil is the country’s adventure capital – an epicentre for white water rafting, rappelling and paragliding.

As well as packing in some outstanding beaches, the Caribbean coast is home to some colourful colonial towns. Cartagena is a beautiful city of cobbled plazas, brightly-hued houses, churches and palaces – it’s no surprise that its walled historic centre has a UNESCO designation. Santa Marta also has a well-preserved historic centre, and a great wining and dining scene. It’s a good place to base yourself for beach trips and hikes into the gloriously picturesque Tayrona National Park.

Bogotá, the capital, nestles in the country’s mountainous interior – the third highest capital in the world. It’s Colombia’s cultural epicentre with its inspiring museums, interesting architecture and an electric nightlife.

Medellín is another lively mountain city, which has witnessed a complete renaissance after being reclaimed from the drug cartels and guerrilla fighters that used to rule the roost.

It’s now a city of nature reserves and botanical gardens, of art galleries, open-air museums and plazas where children play and couples promenade.

All in all, Colombia will dazzle you with its landscapes, fascinate you with its history, and provide you with plenty of opportunities to party.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 107

COLOMBIA TRAVEL GUIDE

IN FOCUS

B O G O TÁ BOGOTÁ IS ONE of South America’s most eclectic and interesting cities. Encircled by the snowy peaks of the Andes, it radiates urban cool. The city has a packed calendar of music, art and fashion events, as well as some fantastic cultural attractions. It houses the country’s most famous museum, Museo del Oro, which explores the cultural history of gold in Colombia. There are more than 55,000 gold exhibits from all the country’s major pre-Hispanic cultures. Another interesting museum is Museo Histórico Policial, housed in the former police HQ, where you can learn about the country’s law enforcement with an exhibition on Pablo Escobar and guided tours by police officers.

Bolivar Square, one of the most photogenic spots in the city, surrounded by the cathedral and the vast, colonnaded National Capitol building

La Candelaria, Bogotá’s historic downtown area, is crammed with carefully preserved buildings. Ornate churches sit alongside colonial mansions. The epicentre of the district is Bolivar Square, one of the most photogenic spots in the city, surrounded

by the cathedral and the vast, colonnaded National Capitol Building.

But Bogotá isn’t just renowned for its historic buildings – it’s a city where old is juxtaposed with new. As you walk the streets of La Candeleria and beyond, you’ll find upmarket boutiques, edgy art galleries and bars open until the small hours. And the neighbourhood is also renowned for its striking grafitti murals.

Bogotá is also a great stop for foodies. Enjoy a breakfast of hot chocolate and cheese – a popular dish to stave off the Andean chill – and try a bowl of ajiaco, chicken and potato soup often served with rice, corn and avocado. There are also lots of upmarket restaurants serving dishes from around the world.

Quinta del Mar Resorts is a paradise located at Isla Tintipán.

(Archipiélago of San Bernardo’s biggest Island) Situated on Cartagena’s insular area, Quinta Del Mar is perfect for planning a trip to the Colombian Caribbean. The natural scenes you can see in our resort, rank as the #1 resort to visit in Colombia, according to Diners Magazine. It’s absolutely outstanding, occasionally, while having breakfast, you could see dolphins passing by our private beach! Also, 5 minutes away from our resorts, there is the biggest fisherman village in Colombia!

Which is 3 minutes away from ‘’Maravilla’’, a submerged island.

Right now, this is the best place in Colombia to go snorkelling.

reservas@quintadelmar.co WhatsApp: (+57) 321 404 3800 Website: www.quintadelmar.co

COLOMBIA TRAVEL GUIDE

INDUSTRY

FOCUS

COLOMBIAN COFFEE INDUSTRY COLOMBIA IS ONE the top coffee producing countries in the world (exceeded only by Brazil and Vietnam) – in 2018, it harvested and processed 810,000 metric tons of coffee. In Colombia’s Risaralda region, the sub-tropical climate and high altitude mountains provide the unique conditions coffee plants need to thrive. Despite the large amount of coffee produced each year, many coffee farms remain small-scale and family-owned; the plantations are located on the steep foothills of the Andes, making mechanised techniques impossible.

But the livelihoods of these 300,000 small-scale producers are under threat, thanks to increasingly unpredictable weather variations, crop disease and pests – all of which are associated with climate change.

An investigative report by Quartz in

110 | Outlook Travel issue 03

The coffee industry might be afflicted by climate change and falling prices, but help is at hand from the government, scientists and NGOs 2018 revealed that over 90 percent of farmers reported changes in average temperature, and 61 percent an increase in landslides due to rains; 91 percent also acknowledged changes in the flowering and fruiting cycle of their coffee plants.

Furthermore, in 2019, coffee prices plummeted to a record low, making it difficult for Colombian coffee

farmers to pay their workers wages.

As a result of these factors, many are choosing to leave the coffee industry for more well-paid, steady jobs in nearby cities.

So what can be done to help the Colombian coffee industry survive?

This is a question that concerns everyone from government officials to climate scientists and coffee farm workers.

In December 2019, Colombia’s government launched “Plan 2030” – a roadmap to guarantee sustainable coffee production for the next decade. It involves the renovation of coffee plantations to boost production, as well as a $52 million fund to help cover costs for coffee growers when prices fall. Research is also being done to find ways to help coffee growers reduce their production costs.

Far left: Coffee beans drying in the sun on a coffee plantation in the mountains of San Andres, Tierradentro. Left: Hand operated machine for the separation of coffee grains and coffee pulp, typically used on Colombian coffee farms to exemplify the pulp removal process

Across the world, research scientists and agriculturists are working on ways to develop a strategic approach to combatting climate change in coffee production – the supra-regional partnership The Initiative for Coffee & Climate is one example – through impact monitoring, new forms of cultivation and irrigation.

In Colombia, according to a report

by The Grocer, coffee farmers are beginning to change the way in which they work. José Norbey Sanchez, for example, has started to grow a more resilient coffee cherry, the Castillo.

Although it may not be the gold standard Arabic variety, it’s less vulnerable to changes in weather and less prone to coffee ‘rust’. Meanwhile, Diofanor Ruiz is experimenting with alternative methods to produce a higher-quality brew, such as using flotation to select the best cherries according to density, and fermentation with tanks and anaerobic processes. This experimentation enables him to produce specialty coffee, which fetches a higher price on the market.

“I want to show what profitable coffee farming looks like to the community to present it as an attractive opportunity to young people,” Ruiz explains.

Finally, NGOs and non-profits are working to help maintain coffee growers’ livelihoods. One of these is Coffee for Peace, an initiative launched by Colombia’s National Federation of Coffee Growers and the United States Agency for International Development to promote coffee trade in areas afflicted by violence and the drug trade. It helps coffee farmers learn how to process and conserve coffee, as well as linking them to specialty coffee markets. In providing an economic alternative, it aims to help continue Colombia’s transition to peace and prosperity.

With so much help at hand, the future of coffee production looks likely to endure, despite the difficulties it faces.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 111

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS

E AT: F OFROB R AV E LW LE RUFDI G NE T - DTI N ING I TRHS …

B O G OTÁ’ S ELITE… Pajares Salinas F O R N O N -T R A D I T I O N A L CO LO M B I A N F O O D… Local by Rausch

SLEEP:

DO: F O R A C ATA M A R A N C R U I S E A R O U N D T H E R OSA R I O I S L A N DS …

Bona Vida Catamaranes

F O R O C E A N F R O N T E L E G A N C E O N SA N A N D R É S I S L A N D… Hotel Casablanca F O R A N I DY L L I C CO LO M B I A N C A R I B B E A N VAC AT I O N …

Quinta del Mar Resorts consists of three boutique, luxury cabins on the Caribbean Coast: Sunset and Tintipan, on Isla Tintipan, and El Paraíso, in Tolú.

Expect swimming pools and luxury rooms with ocean views, bespoke butler service and exquisite, home-cooked Colombian dishes. You can travel as a couple, or in a large group.

F O R A F R E E B I K I N G A N D ST R E E T F O O D TO U R I N C A R TAG E N A …

Bike & Bite Food Tour

112 | Outlook Travel issue 03

COLOMBIA TRAVEL GUIDE

Enjoy your country Casablanca Hotel San Andres

+57 (8) 5124115 - 5124116 vacaciones@hotelcasablancasanandres.com www.hotelcasablancasanandres.com

E N T E R TA I N M E N T: F O R L I V E C H A M P E TA M U S I C I N C A R TAG E N A . . .

Bazurta Social Club AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE

F O R A N E CC E N T R I C C A R N I VA L E S Q U E R E STAU R A N T A N D C LU B . . .

Andre Carne de Res F O R A B A R W H E R E YO U C A N P L AY T E J O, A G A M E I N VO LV I N G G U N P OW D E R . . .

Club de Tejo La 76 F O R A N AT M OS P H E R I C B E AC H B A R I N P R OV I D E N C I A . . .

Roland Roots Reggae Bar

Our hotel has one of the most beautiful pools in Cartagena. With its infinite design, it is the best way to enjoy a spectacular sunset from our terrace. Cartagena is unparalleled in colonial magic; Walk the walls and discover its historical wealth.

Bocagrande Carrera 1 No.5 01 Cartagena de Indias. 130001

(+57) 5 642 4250 info@intercontinentalcartagena.com

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 113

COLOMBIA TRAVEL GUIDE

LANDMARK AT T R A C T I O N S CIUDAD PERDIDA Tucked away in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains is Ciudad Perdida (“Lost City”), one of the largest pre-Columbian towns in the Americas. These atmospheric ancient ruins are 650 years older than Machu Picchu and lay undiscovered for centuries. The only way to reach the city is by a 27-mile hike through dense rainforest, a challenging but rewarding experience that can be done with tour companies..

TAYRONA NATIONAL PARK This national park hugs Colombia’s Caribbean coast, offering up some of the country’s best beaches, verdant rainforests and timeworn pre-Hispanic ruins. It’s also home to a wide variety of animal and bird life, including lizards, monkeys and Andean condors.

CARTAGENA’S OLD TOWN Cartagena is a must on any Colombian itinerary, thanks to its perfectly preserved, 16th century walled city. Expect flower-filled balconies, pastel-hued houses and ornate churches. The walled city also serves up luxury living with its fine dining restaurants and boutique hotels in former mansions.

114 | Outlook Travel issue 03

Lookout point from a metro cable car over Medellín

GETTING THERE AND AROUND EL DORADO IS the country’s busiest airport, located near Bogotá.

It flies to over 70 domestic and international destinations, ranging from Madrid to Miami. Passengers from Asia or Africa can connect via European airports such as Amsterdam, Paris or London, as well as go through Istanbul.

From El Dorado, passengers can also take domestic flights to popular destinations such as Cartagena and San Andres. Avianca – Colombia’s national carrier – flies to 26 destinations across the country.

For travelling across the country, Colombia also has a network of comfortable, air-conditioned buses serving all major destinations. Car hire is not recommended – insurance is expensive, and traffic can be unpredictable in cities.

Most major cities have mass transit systems. Medellín has an efficient metro linking to its cable car lines, while Bogotá boasts the TransMilenio, the world’s largest Bus Rapid Transit system. It also has an extensive network of cycle paths. Private taxi hire is available in all major cities as well.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 115

This undiscovered South American country offers the adventurous traveller a wealth of experiences, from trekking through lush rainforest to visiting eco-conscious Amerindian villages Writer: Dani Redd | Project Manager: Krisha Canlas

G

uyana is a country for the 21st century adventurer, offering endless opportunities for exploration. First, there are the diverse landscapes: the untouched beaches in the north; an interior carpeted in rainforest and rolling savannas; the soaring peaks and plateaus of the Guyana Highlands. There are plenty of ways you can explore the country. Take a guided hike or a canoe trip down the country’s waterways. Go on a 4x4 self-drive safari to the country’s hidden corners or learn survival skills in the Amazon jungle.

Then, there’s the astonishing array of wildlife – 225 mammal and 900 bird species. Guyana is known as the ‘Home of the Giants’, with some of the largest animals on the planet, such as giant river otters, anacondas, giant anteaters and arapaima (the largest freshwater fish in the world) found here. Six of the 36 wildcat species that exist in the world roam through the pristine rainforest and other natural areas of Guyana.

PHOTO BY DAVID DI GREGORIO

These include pumas, ocelots and elusive jaguars - the largest of the big cats in Guyana.

The country is also renowned for its community-run, environmentally friendly tourism. Villagers collaborate and pool resources to launch initiatives such as eco-lodges, cultural celebrations and guided hikes through the stunning natural landscapes.

Guyana is a melting pot of Caribbean, European, African, East Indian and indigenous cultures, each with their own distinct traditions and customs. Such cultural diversity means that the country has an intriguing, multicultural cuisine.

Try pepperpot, a hot Amerindian stew dish, or metamgee, dumplings cooked in coconut milk. The capital, Georgetown, has a fantastic dining scene.

GUYANA TRAVEL GUIDE

GUYANA TRAVEL GUIDE

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

T H E G U YA N A T O U R I S M A U T H O R I T Y ( G TA ) THE GUYANA TOURISM Authority (GTA) is a semiautonomous organisation set up in 2002 to develop and promote tourism in Guyana.

Guyana has a shared vision for 2025 – to be recognised both locally and internationally as a premier destination protecting its natural and cultural heritage, and to provide authentic experiences while maximising benefits to local residents. The GTA is working with

sister agencies, local communities and the private sector to help the country realise its goals. We caught up with Brian Mullis, director of the GTA, to find out more.

Outlook Travel (OT): Why is tourism important for Guyana?

Brian Mullis (BM): Tourism contributes to Guyana’s Green State Agenda and all 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. Based on an analysis of the VEMS survey from the

Guyana Bureau of Statistics, tourism became formally recognised as the second largest export sector in Guyana in 2019. Travel and tourism injected approximately $300 million directly into Guyana’s economy and contributed to 22,000 jobs in 2018.

Based on our most recent visitation data, there has been a 9.12 percent increase in travellers coming to Guyana, and total travel and tourism investment in Guyana is projected to increase to $37 million by 2028.

GUYANA TRAVEL GUIDE

INFO@LEISUREINNGY.COM (592) 333 5207-10 LOT 9 MAIN & THEATRE ALLEY NEW AMSTERDAM BERBICE WWW.LEISUREINNGY.COM

Creating Memories in the Ancient County Signature Inn International Hotel, is a picturesque boutique structure with a blend of comfort with style and luxury with logic. Our goal is offer an intimate residential retreat with discreet services that will both relax and inspire you.

Luxury Suites & Apartments

+592 626 1501 +592 226 2145 Hotelgy.com signatureinngy@gmail.com

WE OFFER : • Extended stay at special rates • Free WiFi • Breakfast available • Clean Crisp rooms • Air conditioned rooms • Quiet no smoking rooms • Super fast internet service

8

out of 10

Booking.com

Traveller Review Awards 2020

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 119

Exploring the Burro Burro River offer the traveller a chance to explore the country by water. You can opt for instructed river expeditions, shorter canoeing trips and even rafting.

To put all of this into perspective, Guyana is the only country in the world where tourism that is led by indigenous communities is the primary focus. It is home to some of the world’s best examples of community driven, owned and led tourism. The host indigenous communities own and manage the enterprises, which results in all the residents receiving myriad benefits.

OT: How do you market Guyana as a destination?

BM: In a world where travel is becoming more mainstream, and many destinations have lost the authenticity that attracted travellers in the first place, Guyana stands out.

It is decidedly not ‘touristy’. This, along with the fact that the country 120 | Outlook Travel issue 03

remains largely undeveloped, means that you will discover pristine ecosystems with an abundance of wildlife, rich culture and heritage, and warm hospitality. You will be privy to immersive experiences in indigenous communities without the need for an interpreter. Guyana is the only country in South America where English is the official language.

Guyana’s brand pillars include nature and wildlife, active exploration, culture and heritage, birding and conservation. Our primary source markets are the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Netherlands and Germany. We have a value-based marketing strategy focused on attracting travellers that seek out world-class nature, adventure and cultural experiences.

We primarily reach our target markets through our marketing representatives, earned media, outbound tour operator partners, digital and cooperative marketing, tradeshows, and fam trips.

OT: What are your organisation’s goals and visions for the future?

BM: Our mission is to collaborate with others to develop and promote sustainable tourism in Guyana, maximising local socio-economic and conservation outcomes and improving visitors’ experience.

In order to achieve our mission and realise our vision, we have four organisational objectives and priorities to achieve each of them: raise the profile and impact of the GTA; optimise nationwide

GUYANA TRAVEL GUIDE

87 percent of Guyana’s rainforests are still intact. This means that an astonishing array of wildlife call the country home

Left: White-faced Saki Monkey.

Above: Giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis), also known as the giant river otter.

Right: Yellow-headed Poison Frog

socio-economic and conservation outcomes from tourism; champion the value of tourism; support and empower Guyana’s tourism industry and communities.

OT: Congratulations on winning the award for ‘Best Ecotourism Destination’ at ITB Berlin last year. Can you tell us a little more about Guyana Tourism Authority’s commitment to sustainability?

BM: Guyana has a long-standing sustainability agenda, and sustainability is a way of life for many.

This is why, for example, 87 percent of our forest ecosystems are intact. In recent years, Guyana has expended considerable effort to develop an eco-friendly tourism product and incorporate sustainable tourism best practice into all aspects of its tourism strategy, policy, planning and programming. Scaling up interministerial and multi-stakeholder collaboration through structured, mutually beneficial partnerships is

one of the primary keys to unlocking our full potential.

The case study that we submitted to the ‘Best Ecotourism Destination’ award was centred on the villages of Surama and Rewa. Both of these indigenous communities own and operate eco-lodges. These worldclass examples of community-led and owned enterprises illustrate how entire communities can generate positive socio-economic and conservation outcomes from tourism.

We are now helping an increasing number of communities follow their lead through a community-led tourism framework and toolkit and donor support.

Last year, we also won a number of other sustainable tourism awards, including ‘The #1 Best in Sustainable Tourism’ at the LATA Achievement Awards in June 2019, and ‘The #1 Best in Destination Stewardship’ at the CTO’s Sustainable Tourism Awards Programme in August 2019.

OT: What trends are transforming the tourism industry in Guyana and how are you responding to them?

BM: There are a few key trends that are transforming tourism in Guyana.

Conservation tourism is when tourism businesses, communities, donors, and government work

Xxxxxxxx

together to make net positive contributions to the conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem services.

We’re responding to this trend by helping more communities establish their own tourism enterprises to incentivise the establishment of community conservation areas.

This has several key benefits, including improving wildlife and bird spotting. Furthermore, with an increase in ‘flight shaming’ among environmentally conscious travellers, visitors to Guyana can support communities that protect forests sequestering far more CO2 than is generated from their travels.

OT: Are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in Guyana?

BM: Absolutely. Through continued collaboration and the protection of our wealth of natural and cultural heritage, we can fully realise the potential of tourism and make a substantive contribution to the country’s sustainable development goals, enriching experiences of Guyanese residents and visitors in the process.

The Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) info@guyanatourism.com www.guyanatourism.com Outlook Travel issue 03 | 121

GUYANA TRAVEL GUIDE

TOP COMMUNITY TOURISM EXPERIENCES I N G U YA N A ONE OF THE most special things about a trip to Guyana is the wealth of community tourism experiences on offer. These are initiatives where villages have worked together, pooling their resources to create tourism products that their communities will benefit from. Meanwhile, tourists will get to immerse themselves in ethical, authentic experiences. Here are Outlook Travel’s top three community experiences in Guyana: Brian Mullis

“SOCIAL IMPACT: community tourism provides the receptive community with direct access to the travel and tourism value chain, supports capacity building, helps to preserve cultural heritage, increases community pride, and reduces out-migration.”

BENEFITS OF COMMUNITY TOURISM Brian Mullis, director of the Guyana Tourism Association, believes there are three fundamental benefits of community tourism: “ECONOMIC IMPACT: increases direct spending by domestic and international visitors, increases enterprise development and creates employment opportunities and a varied economic base. It’s also an economic multiplier effect in creating job opportunities, especially for women and youth.”

“ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: creates alternative livelihood opportunities as an incentive for communities to support the conservation of ecosystems, wildlife protection and natural resource management. It also supports sustainable energy production and use.”

SURAMA ECO-LODGE This was the first indigenous village to embark upon a community-led tourism initiative by building its own eco-lodge.

Guests staying here can try traditional dishes made with local produce and learn more about Makushi culture. The villagers have preserved the biodiversity of the region, as you’ll see if you take one of their guided hikes, river canoe trips or camping excursions in the surrounding area. www.suramaecolodge.com

GUYANA TRAVEL GUIDE

PHOTO BY VISIT GUYANA

ARROW POINT NATURE RESORT

REWA ECO-LODGE This eco-lodge is located in Rewa, a small Amerindian community in the heart of Guyana’s rainforest, which is renowned for its biodiversity. It’s home to around 300 villagers, mostly from the Makushi, who want to conserve and protect their environment. They founded their eco-lodge with a grant from Conservation International. As well as offering outdoor activities, such as dugout canoe trips, they will also take you on tours around Rewa Village to experience their way of life.

Just downriver from Georgetown, along Kamuni Creek, you’ll find the Arawak village of Santa Mission. It’s a calm, picturesque village surrounded by sprawling fields and forest. As you walk around the village, you’ll see weavers and other artisans at work. Enjoy strolling along the nature trails that have been made around the village. The villagers have even constructed an eco-lodge, Arrow Point Nature Resort, which is located on the banks of the creek. The activities on offer include kayaking, swimming, mountain biking and bird watching. www.facebook.com/ ArrowPointResort

www.rewaecolodge.com

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 123

GUYANA TRAVEL GUIDE

IN FOCUS

G E O R G E TOW N THE CAPITAL, GEORGETOWN, is steeped in colonial heritage and has a distinctly Caribbean atmosphere.

Learn more about the country’s Amerindian culture on a visit to the Walter Roth Museum, or its flora and fauna at the National Museum. Soak up its colonial history as you explore timeworn churches, the colonnaded Parliament Building and the Red House, home to former Prime Minister Cheddi Jagan.

The city has a fantastic wining and dining scene, serving food that reflects the country’s cultural diversity: Brazilian barbecue, Creole cuisine, Indian dishes and plenty of Amerindian specialities, such as pepperpot. You’ll get a chance to try Guyanese dishes such as ginger soup and grilled snapper in shady

This map highlights Guyana’s three largest regions: Guyanese Coastal Plain; Guyanese Highlands; and Berbice-Corentyne

courtyard restaurants. There are also plenty of options for a night out, whether you prefer live soca and chutney music in a local bar, or cocktails in swanky rooftop bars.

There are plenty of other attractions in and around the city. Take a guided tour of Demera Distillers Ltd. to find out how the famous El Dorado rum is made. Or take a Jeep tour past lush sugarcane fields to the Uitvlugt Estate, where you can learn more about the sugarcane business and the dark legacy of the slave trade. Georgetown is also a fantastic gateway to exploring the rest of the country, whether you’re interested in travelling along the coast to nearby beaches or taking a historic boat tour of the islands and settlements along the Essequibo River.

Beautiful colonial era building, Georgetown

The neo-Classical Parliament Building in Georgetown, Guyana, is a monumental brick building completed in 1834. Two Russian cannon captured during the Crimean War grace the front lawn

PHOTO BY DAVID STANLEY

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS

E AT: F OFROB RUG DU GYA E TNTERSAV E SEPLELC EIRASLT … IES… Backyard Café

F O R T H O U G H T F U L LY C U R AT E D SEAFOOD DISHES… Terra Mare

SLEEP: FOR BOUTIQUE ROOMS IN THE C A P I TA L …

Signature Inn F O R A CO M M U N I T Y- R U N E CO - LO D G E …

Rewa Eco-Lodge F O R F R I E N D LY FAC E S A N D D E L I C I O U S F O O D… Jubilee Resort F O R FA N TAST I C H OS P I TA L I T Y A N D G R E AT E N T E R TA I N M E N T… Leisure Inn Hotel

126 | Outlook Travel issue 03

GUYANA TRAVEL GUIDE

Tourist Destinations | Corporate Flights AMO Services | Hangar Rental

DO: F O R A DV E N T U R E TO U R S AC R OSS G U YA N A … Evergreen Adventures FOR A CANOEING AND CAMPING EXPEDITION… Amazon Adventures

5-6 Hangar Building Eugene F. Correia International Airport (592) 222 - 6513 | (592) 222-5556 -9 wingjet2@networksgy.com airguyana.biz Air Guyana Inc.

MOVE TO EXPLORE

$POUBDU VT GPS TIPSU MPOHUFSN SFOUBMT 8JMEFSOFTT &YQMPSFST 'PVSUI 4USFFU $BNQCFMMWJMMF ] ]

25 Maria’s Lodge Essequibo Coast Guyana Tel: 592 6005673 / 654 8700 Email: jupitergy2171@gmail.com

FVSPQDBS!FVSPQDBS TS ] FVSPQDBS TS ] FVSPQDBS DPN

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 127

GUYANA TRAVEL GUIDE

LANDMARK AT T R A C T I O N S KAIETEUR FALLS One of the country’s most impressive sites is Kaiteur Falls (the largest single-drop waterfall in the world), where water gushes in torrents off a 250-metre high cliff. The falls are surrounded by ancient jungle and can be reached via plane or an adventurous five-day hike.

MOUNT RORAIMA This flat-topped mountain soars to an elevation of 2,800 metres, and lies on the border between Venezuela, Guyana and Brazil. The plateau is an otherworldly landscape of stark rock formations, often shrouded in cloud. On clear days, you can see for miles across the rugged Pakaraima Mountains.

SURAMA VILLAGE Surama is an Amerindian village (mainly inhabited by Macushi people) and the site for the first community ecotourism initiative in Guyana. The local community manages and maintains Surama Eco-Lodge, which offers tourists a chance to stay in traditional huts, try local food and explore nearby nature trails.

128 | Outlook Travel issue 03

Cheddi Jagan International Airport

GETTING THERE AND AROUND GUYANA’S LARGEST AIRPORT is Cheddi Jagan International Airport, located 41 kilometres from the capital. It offers flights to destinations in the Caribbean, South America, Canada and the United States – both American Airlines and Caribbean Airlines operate multiple daily flights to New York.

International tourists can also visit Guyana via small cruise ship, many of which offer nature-based

shore excursions. P&O Cruises and Noble Caledonia are two wellknown providers.

The best way to explore Georgetown is by taxi. You’ll also be able to get minivans (shared taxis) and local buses to nearby towns.

It’s also possible to travel between towns via ferry – a service runs along the Essequibo River, from Charity to Bartica.

The country’s only main road is an unsealed track from Georgetown

and through the rainforest to Lethem, a journey which takes 15-20 hours. It’s serviced by long distance buses, but you can also hire a 4x4 to explore Guyana’s more off-the-beaten-track corners.

However, the quickest and most convenient way to get around is by air, in small four-12-seater Cessna planes, which offer splendid panoramic views.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 129

TRAVEL BUSINESS FEATURE

T R AV E L B U S I N E S S

P I TC H U P How Dan Yates started Pitchup, the UK’s first online search and booking platform for campsites Writer: Dani Redd

D

an Yates has always enjoyed camping. Unsurprising really, considering he grew up on a holiday park managed by his parents.

“We had a big family and we all mucked in. I did everything from collecting the change in phone boxes to cleaning caravans and then, later, working in the office,” he explains.

At university, Dan became interested in website design. This was in the 90s, when the internet was still new and the first holiday websites (like lastminute.com) were just coming onto the market.

He persuaded his parents to invest money into making a website for their holiday park – by 2000 it was

at the top of Google rankings. The next step was to enable online booking; by 2002 the family were getting around 50 percent of their customers to book and pay online.

This was one of the first websites of its kind in the UK, and what gave Dan the idea for Pitchup – a search and booking website where customers have a choice of thousands of campsites across Europe.

“We sold the business a couple of years later, but the idea was always in the back of my mind,” he says.

After university, Dan got a job as a strategy consultant working for lastminute.com, which was the lead travel brand in ecommerce at the time.

“It was a unique environment, where everyone was dedicated to the lastminute.com vision and worked extremely hard, but you were encouraged to experiment and be ‘internal entrepreneurs’. And that quite naturally led people to strike out on their own.

“I finally did that in 2009. I knew that if someone else set up a campsite search engine first, I was going to be very cross,” he explains.

By this time, filtered search engines and ecommerce sites were becoming increasingly popular.

“As banal as it sounds, I actually took inspiration from my search for a washing machine – there were all

TRAVEL BUSINESS FEATURE

these websites where every possible feature had its own search function and you could hone down thousands of options to the three that perfectly fitted what you wanted, and then get the best price for them.

“I thought how great it would be to do the same with a campsite, which has so many more features. It might be counterintuitive, but there are hundreds of different features for every campsite to allow people to really customise the holiday they want, and that’s what we set out to do. Not only to build a search engine, which these days you’ll find on every website you visit, but to pull in all types of slightly quirky data sources.”

In 2009 the open data movement was taking off, and companies were being encouraged to release data archives they had gathered over the years. Dan managed to gather seven or eight data sources, including information on bathing water quality from

the EU environment agency, which is now listed on Pitchup’s website.

“None of the holiday sites seemed to feature this data, which to me is a crucial consideration for a seaside holiday,” he says.

Pitchup became a one-stop shop where customers could not only choose accommodation based upon various amenities, but also on what was available in the surrounding location.

But it soon became apparent that it was necessary to integrate a booking system into the website.

“The call to action on the website was a phone number to call, but quite often there was no answer.

Or if we provided the email address of a campsite, it would take a week for them to respond to enquiries,” Dan says.

As it was too early for ATI integration to exist, Pitchup built its own online bookings system and gave

campsites access to it, so they could update content descriptions, set pricings and receive payment.

Within the first couple of years, Pitchup had managed to get the UK’s top four holiday parks listed on their site, which gave them the muscle to sign up smaller operators.

These days, Pitchup offers more than 4,200 sites in 67 countries across the world, pursuing a multifaceted strategy to keep attracting more campsites.

“We’ll go to trade shows throughout the year, occasionally we’ll visit them, use email marketing, post adverts on social media, and we have a team of sales people who will contact them on a regular basis,” Dan says.

“Because we’re the first company like this that are likely to have contacted them, it’s not a decision that they’ll make overnight. We’ve got people signing up that we’ve been talking to for five or six years.

One of the biggest objections is that campsite owners like to speak to people on the phone and suss them out – they’re concerned about noisy parties and troublemakers. But then they see Pitchup in the press, and know people are turning more and more to the internet, and decide to give it a try.”

Dan believes that campsites stay with Pitchup thanks to the ‘no strings attached policy’ – campsites don’t have to sign a contract or shift a certain number of units.

In February 2019, Pitchup passed the one million bookings mark. It was also one of only 90 companies to appear in the FT1000 Fastest Growing Companies in Europe list for three years running (2018 to 2020).

Its success, Dan believes, is not only centred around the amount of choice offered to customers, but also the seamless instant booking process – Pitchup challenged itself to create a one-page booking system, with no unnecessary data fields to fill out.

Added to that, domestic camping has become an increasingly popular choice in recent years.

“People are becoming increasingly interested in travelling sustainably,” Dan says. “Not only is the mode of transport people use to go camping environmentally friendly (they rarely use flights or ferries), but also the

“In many cases these businesses are supporting an entire community. A campsite has a low booking value, so has to bring in a lot of customers – far more than a hotel” – Dan Yates, Founder of Pitchup

carbon footprint of the property you’re staying at is really low. People go camping for a simpler life – the activities they do while on holiday, like hiking, are low-impact too.”

He points out that campsites also help rural communities become economically sustainable.

“In many cases these businesses are supporting an entire community.

A campsite has a low booking value, so has to bring in a lot of customers – far more than a hotel. And each of those customers is spending £20 in

the pub, £25 in the fish and chip shop and going to the newsagent.”

However, like many other travel companies, Pitchup has been hit by the effects of the coronavirus.

“We’ve not been affected to the same level as some of the high-profile travel companies, simply because they have a much higher rate of international travel. But it’s still significant. This Saturday we had 50 percent less bookings than this time last year,” Dan says.

He points out that many of the sites listed on Pitchup would make good domestic holiday locations, as they’re located in rural areas with low population density, and it’s still possible to practice social distancing.

He also remains cautiously optimistic that holiday bookings will revive in time for the summer season.

“Our fervent hope is that there will be some last-minute bookings.

Mobile booking was something we worked on very early, and that’s given us a great platform to shift a lot of bookings at very short notice.

“Although a lot of our clients are really hurting, we are ready to support them make the absolute most of when the bookings come back.”

In a society where the shift towards domestic tourism seems to have suddenly accelerated, we wish Pitchup the very best of luck.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 133

GHANA TRAVEL GUIDE

GHANA Friendly Ghana is a West African country pulsing with energy, steeped in history and blessed with some breath-taking landscapes Writer: Dani Redd | Project Manager: Joe Palliser

I

t’s easy to see why Ghana is one of the most popular destinations in West Africa.

For a start there’s the beaches, golden stretches of sand fringed with palm trees.

But the coast is marked by the shadows of the past – slaves were held in Europeanbuilt coastal fortresses before being shipped overseas. Visit Cape Coast to learn more about this haunting legacy.

One of the first African countries to shake off the shackles of colonial rule, modern Ghana has a stable democracy, welcoming multi-ethnic population and an energetic spirit, making it a fantastic place to visit. Cities such as Kumasi are bursting with cultural museums, open-air eateries and artisanal markets. The country holds over 70 major traditional festivals every year, including Homowo, which is an exuberant celebration of a bountiful harvest, and Oguaa Fetu Afahye, unique warrior processions and rituals in honour of the 77 deities in the Fetu Afahye area.

But that’s not all. Ghana is blessed with some spectacular landscapes. Travel inland from the coast and you’ll discover a series of diverse habitats, from mountains to lush rainforest, rolling savannahs to arid plains. In the far north is the Mole National Park, Ghana’s largest wildlife reserve – it’s the only place in the country where you can see elephants in the wild. Meanwhile the Volta Region, running along Ghana’s eastern border, is all lush fields and craggy mountains, perfect for hiking.

The perfect Accra holiday experience begins here!

Welcome to ‘Afropolitan’.

An icon. Sitting pretty in the heart of Accra, with a great load of history.

The history of a great city and country.

The African Regent Hotel is a destination unparalleled. This is a place that defines its destination, embodies tradition, encapsulates culture, and represents luxury.

Boldly contemporary, yet inspired by elements of traditional African design, the stunning African themed decor, and professionally home-grown staff make the African Regent as much a place to stay and relax as a prime destination to entertain and socialize.

You are welcome to Ghana’s iconic hotel.

237/238 Airport West, Accra +302 765180-2 info@african-regent-hotel.com www.theafricanregenthotel.com TheAfricanRegent AfricanRegent africanregenthotel

Give yourself the great satisfaction of an immersive cultural experience. There is no finer hotel.

GHANA TRAVEL GUIDE

Monument and tomb of the Unknown Soldier

IN FOCUS

ACC R A ACCRA, THE COUNTRY’S capital, is a busy, rapidly developing metropolis. What it lacks in iconic landmarks it makes up for with bags of colour and character. Jamestown is Accra’s oldest district, where you’ll find timeworn colonial buildings alongside colourful street art. It’s famous for its boxing schools – visit and you might chance on an open-air match.

Thanks to its coastal location, after a hot day’s sightseeing you can head to the beach. Labadi Beach is the most popular; locals come here to swim and play ball games, while the air is full of reggae music from the bars lining the sand. Bojo Beach, on the other hand, is quieter and more pristine.

For a taste of local life, head to 138 | Outlook Travel issue 03

bustling Makola Market. You’ll find vendors selling everything from unrefined shea butter to colourful dashiki print fabric, as well as street food stalls. Try crispy waagashi (fried cheese) or a plate of spicy jollof rice. Accra has the best dining scene in Ghana – as well as street food stalls you’ll everything from hip Afro-Caribbean fare to upmarket pan-Asian restaurants.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city in Legon Botanical Gardens, one of the city’s greenest spaces. Stroll down sun-dappled paths and around lakes fringed with greenery. The park also boasts a tree canopy walkway, a playground and an obstacle course.

Scratch beneath the surface of this compelling capital and you’ll find plenty to surprise and entertain you.

Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum

Balme Library, University of Ghana Independence Square

Market Outlook Travel issue 03 | 139

GHANA TRAVEL GUIDE

One of Ghana’s most attractive natural offerings is Boti Falls, a towering 30 metre high waterfall located within the Boti Forest Reserve

IN 1986, THE Ghanaian government chose to promote tourism as a major foreign exchange earner, helping facilitate development within the country. A designated ministry was set up in 1993, and in 1995 the Ghana Tourism Federation (GHATOF) was established as an apex organisation to collate information and articulate the concerns of the practitioners in the industry, as well as influencing growth and development of tourism.

We caught up with Emmanuel Frimpong, Executive Secretary of GHATOF, to find out more about the organisation.

140 | Outlook Travel issue 03

G H A N A TO U R I S M F E D E R AT I O N Outlook Travel (OT): What are your organisation’s current goals?

Emmanuel Frimpong (EF): Our vision is to be the primary advocate for the private sector leadership in the development of responsible and sustainable tourism in Ghana. Our mission is to cultivate and uphold commitment to the shared goals

and objectives of the organisation by delivering services that enhance growth of the tourism industry.

Membership of GHATOF is voluntary and is open to any businesses or volunteer organisations residing in Ghana. To provide flexibility, we offer four different categories of membership, ranging from full to honorary.

Where every stay is unique.

AH Hotel and Conference Accra, brings to the city a true urban living, with over 75 generously sized guest rooms, humid interior and conference spaces that encloses four floors and inspired by over 5000 LED ceiling lamps that responds to your very presence; your stay is as enjoyable and fulfilling than ever and is bound to keep you coming back for more.

Our restaurant offers a sheer bliss for any delicacy with delectable continental as well as local cuisine which are made by master craft chefs.

AH Hotel Accra, brings to the city a true Urban living with state of the art guest rooms, flavorsome and mouthwatering restaurant totaling it with a bar, gym and pool area.

Enjoy premium wines, whiskies and Shushi at our ever exciting restaurant and bar.

Spacious lobbies for all your business meetups.

www.ahhotelafrica.com

GHANA TRAVEL GUIDE

“TOURISM IS A KEY ECONOMIC DRIVER IN GHANA WHICH GENERATES FOREIGN EXCHANGE EARNINGS, CREATES JOBS AND WEALTH AS WELL AS STIMULATING OTHER SECTORS OF THE ECONOMY” OT: Can you tell us a little more about 2019’s “Year of Return” and how it benefitted tourism in Ghana?

EF: The “Year of Return, Ghana 2019” is a landmark marketing campaign targeting the African-American and diaspora market. It marked 400 years since the first enslaved African arrived in Jamestown, Virginia. The Ghana Tourism Authority – under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture – led the project in collaboration with the Office of Diaspora Affairs at the Office of the President, the Panafest Foundation and the Adinkra Group of the USA. The Year of Return sought to make Ghana the focus for millions of African descendants interested in tracing their ancestry by returning to the country. Ghana became a beacon for African people living on the continent and further afield.

The United States Congress recently passed Act H.R. 1242, which 142 | Outlook Travel issue 03

established the 400 years of AfricanAmerican History Commission (to carry out activities commemorating the first arrival of African slaves in English colonies in Virginia, in 1619).

Ghana has a unique position as the location for 75 percent of the slave dungeons built on the west coast of Africa, and the current President has a policy of making it a national priority to extend a hand of welcome back home to Africans in the diaspora.

There are still numerous imposing European forts and castles harbouring harrowing reminders of the intense, complex history of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade in our land over centuries. This alone has made Ghana the focus for millions of African descendants reacting to their marginalisation by tracing their ancestry and identity back to our shores.

The benefits of marketing 2019 as the “Year of Return” led to increased

tourist arrivals, boosted the economy and put Ghana on the world map as a desirable destination.

OT: Why is tourism important for Ghana? How can it help benefit communities and landscapes?

EF: Tourism is a key economic driver in Ghana which generates foreign exchange earnings, creates jobs and wealth as well as stimulating other sectors of the economy. Tourism is currently the fourth largest source of foreign exchange earnings, estimated at $2.7 billion.

Successful restoration generates a wide range of benefits – it aids reforestation, enhances food security, improves air and water quality, increases both climate change resilience and job creation.

OT: Have you got any landmark projects in the pipeline?

EF: Most African countries which won independence in the 1950s

Calm waters at Ada Foah beach close to Maranta beach camp, Ada Foah, where Volta river enters the sea

and ‘60s were confronted with many challenges, including scarcity of skilled employment and infrastructural deficit. To quicken their growth, they relied on assistance from their development partners through grants, loans and technical assistance. Despite having a lot of natural resources, Ghana has relied heavily on foreign aid in the past.

The Ghanaian President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akuffo–Addo, has stated a desire to carefully manage the country’s natural resources to wean Ghana’s development agenda off from external assistance – “Ghana Beyond Aid”. Spurred on by this, GHATOF intends to hold a conference with key stakeholders aimed at preparing the foundations for a national strategy on achieving a “Ghana Beyond Aid” through tourism operations and products only, while fostering knowledge exchange and peer learning.

To further develop responsible

tourism in Ghana and to give authentic kinship to tourists of African-descent, GHATOF is organising a festival aimed at bridging gaps, promoting instant connections and seeking to regulate imaginations about the continent in general and Ghana in particular. It will be an annual event known as the Marhaba Tourism Festival. “Marhaba” means “welcome” and thus provides an enabling insight and justification for the Festival in 2020. Chiefs and Queen mothers will grace the occasion as hosts amidst depictions of much pomp and pageantry. With every activity, an eloquent narrator or “Okyeame” will provide insight and cultural interpretation into the nuanced performances.

Furthermore, since the festival will attract a large section of individuals from varied socioeconomic backgrounds, Marhaba will host business meetings and networking opportunities. Avenues

for investment prospects will be explored and implemented during the festival.

OT: Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Ghana?

EF: Ghana is perhaps the only African country with a stable democracy and healthy economy. It’s rich in history and cultural diversity, offers great music and food. It’s a tropical paradise with amazing tourist sites (forts, castles, and matchless mud mosques). This makes the country a safe all-weather travel destination.

Crime rates are low, insurgency nil, and the country extremely hospitable to tourists. This is a country where tranquillity prevails, even during the elections.

GHANA TOURISM FEDERATION info@ghatof.org Outlook Travel issue 03 | 143

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS

E AT: F OFROB RUA DFGREO T- L T AT R AV I NEAL LST ER RS E… E T- F O O D I N S P I R E D E ATS …

Little Havana F O R U P M A R K E T B I ST R O C L ASS I C S …

Bistro 22 F O R JA PA N E S E F I N E D I N I N G …

Santoku Restaurant F O R A N A I R P L A N E CO N V E R T E D I N TO A R E STAU R A N T… La Tante DC 10

SLEEP: F O R G H A N A I A N H OS P I TA L I T Y I N TA M A L E …

Jeyad’s Lodge F O R P O O L S I D E CO M F O R T I N ACC R A …

Coconut Grove Regency Hotel F O R O C E A N - FAC I N G S O P H I ST I C AT I O N I N ELMINA… Coconut Grove Beach Resort

African Regent Hotel F O R ‘A F R O P O L I TA N ’ LUXU RY I N ACC R A …

The African Regent Hotel bills itself as ‘Afropolitan’, or African and cosmopolitan. It offers internationally regarded facilities – such as a high-tech business centre, large outdoor pool and wellness centre – and showcases African culture to its guests. Rooms are tastefully decorated with colourful fabrics and furniture etched with traditional Adinkra symbols. Meanwhile, the hotel’s restaurant, Muyika, throws the capital’s best Africa-themed Sunday brunch.

The onsite boutique hosts pop-ups selling clothes and other handicrafts made by Ghanaian designers. The hotel offers a complimentary airport pickup service, and will help you arrange all aspects of your trip to Ghana.

DRINK: F O R A G R E AT AT M OS P H E R E …

Republic Bar and Grill F O R T H E B E ST L I V E M U S I C I N ACC R A … +233 Jazz Bar and Grill

STAY F O R B U S I N E SS A N D LUXU RY I N ACC R A . . .

AH Hotel and Conference Center 144 | Outlook Travel issue 03

GHANA TRAVEL GUIDE

YOUR COMFORT IS ASSURED Jeyads Lodge has a serene environment where you are assured of good relaxation, comfort and luxury. Our rooms are well ventilated with air conditioning, water heaters, cable TV, fridges and free wifi. Your health as lodgers is our priority hence our fitness bay which offers you opportunity for good exercise at all times. Our chefs are experts in continental and local dishes. Our bar is also well stocked with an array of alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages.

CONTACT US Vittin, Tamale (about 200 metres from the Vittin Police Barrier and behind Naagamni (Legacy Service Station) - Ghana +233 243337288 | +233 552559441 | +233 552559442 | +233 552559443 info@jeyadslodge.com | jeyadslodge@gmail.com | www.jeyadslodge.com

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 145

GHANA TRAVEL GUIDE

LANDMARK AT T R A C T I O N S WLI FALLS West Africa’s largest waterfall is located in Wli, set amid a picturesque landscape of forest, undulating hills and gurgling streams. It’s a short hike from Wli tourist office to the falls – the 143 metres of cascading water is an impressive sight.

CAPE COAST This coastal town is one of the most culturally significant spots in Africa, as it was once the epicentre of the slave trade in East Africa. Slaves were locked in the dungeons of the austere Cape Coast Castle, before being herded onto transatlantic vessels. The castle now contains a museum, where you can learn more about this traumatic history.

MOLE NATIONAL PARK Ghana’s oldest and most significant national park offers opportunities to spot wildlife such as antelope, warthogs, monkeys and elephants.

Thanks to a lack of predators, it’s possible to go on unique walking safaris. A trip to the park can be twinned with a visit to the nearby Mognori Cultural Village and the ancient mud-and-stick Labaranga Mosque.

146 | Outlook Travel issue 03

Butre Beach

GETTING THERE AND AROUND GHANA’S BUSIEST AIRPORT is Kotoka International Airport, located just eight kilometres from Accra. It offers scheduled flights to 29 destinations in 24 countries across Africa, America, Europe and the Middle East.

Visitors from Asia are advised to take an Emirates flight, connecting via Dubai.

Africa World Airlines and Starbow Airlines operate domestic flights in Ghana, from Accra to destinations including Kumasi, Takoradi and Tamale. If you only have a short holiday, flying from the south to the north of the country is recommended, as it will save you a lot of time.

It’s also possible to travel long distances by bus – reliable companies include VIP and Intercity STC. Some travellers opt to hire a car, either with or without a driver, for greater freedom of movement.

If you’re travelling shorter distances, around cities or between landmarks, taking a taxi is the recommended form of transport. They can either be booked for a single journey or for the day, depending on your needs. The locals use ‘tro tros’ or minibuses to get around – they travel along a fixed route and leave whenever they’re full.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 147

S ÃO TO M É A N D PRÍNCIPE These remote African islands are wildlife havens with their lush rainforests and deserted beaches Writer: Dani Redd | Project Manager: Krisha Canlas

SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE TRAVEL GUIDE

T

he islands of São Tomé and Príncipe lie a hundred miles apart off the west African coast.

Half-forgotten by the outside world, they see only 13,000 tourists a year. Those who visit learn to expect the unexpected. Primeval rainforest gives way to abandoned townships or mountains of fang-like rock. The islands have hundreds of endemic species, and each scientific expedition uncovers new ones.

Unsurprisingly, the islands are attractive destinations for ecotourism, with several luxurious and environmentally friendly accommodation options.

For thousands of years, the islands lay uninhabited. They were discovered by the Portuguese in the 15th century and soon became the world’s largest cacao producer, with slaves brought in to work the plantations.

The Portuguese left in 1975, but the islands still bear traces of colonial rule. São Tomé City, the island’s capital, has been described as a “miniature Havana”, with its colourful colonial buildings, Portuguese-style churches and turquoise ocean views.

The island of Príncipe is wilder, greener and less densely populated than that of São Tomé, with only 7,000 inhabitants. The entire island is a UNESCO biosphere, with spindle-like mountains, lush rainforests populated with birds and spectacularly deserted beaches. Offshore, humpback whales burst out of the water. Visit and you’ll feel as if you’ve entered a lost world.

The island’s cuisine is unique, thanks to its profusion of flora. Try fruits such as the scarlet, triangular-shaped mangongo – which has a sweet aniseedy taste – and azagão, a stew flavoured with over 100 different plants.

With its untouched scenery, friendly inhabitants and unique cuisine, you’re guaranteed a memorable trip.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 149

SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE TRAVEL GUIDE

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

THE MINISTRY OF C U LT U R E , C O M M E R C E AND INDUSTRY

OT: Is there any potential for ecotourism development in the region?

HM: Yes. We are located in a region rich in biodiversity that hasn’t been exploited yet, so ecotourism can set its roots here. Príncipe in particular is wild and untapped – we want to make sure that we keep the environmental impact of any development on it as low as possible.

We realise the need for expanding our infrastructure if we welcome more tourists to the island, but we want to make sure we develop in a sustainable manner.

OT: What challenges does the tourist industry in Sao Tomé and Príncipe face?

Burra beach on Príncipe Island

THE MINISTRY OF Tourism, Culture, Commerce and Industry was established by São Tomé’s current government to implement its goal of developing tourism in São Tomé and Príncipe. In 2019 São Tomé and Príncipe received over 34,900 tourists, which represented an increase of 4.5 percent year-on-year.

We spoke to Hugo Menezes, the Director General of Tourism and Hospitality, about how the organisation is helping the government realise its goals to improve and expand tourism provision on the islands.

Outlook Travel (OT): How do you encourage tourists to visit Sao Tomé and Principe?

Hugo Menezes (HM): By emphasising our products and attractions and all issues that make us unique. Apart from its beauty amid its natural green environment, São Tomé and Príncipe has a very rich culture where the

European (Portuguese) and African values are intermingled.

This can be noticed in different cultural manifestations, including art and cuisine. On the other hand, being a very peaceful country makes us into something different. São Tomé and Príncipe is one of world’s best kept secrets!

OT: How does tourism benefit Sao Tomé and Príncipe?

HM: Once we were an island nation with no minerals, and now other sources of income such as tourism are envisioned as the main way of attracting foreign investment and boosting the economy.

Tourism creates jobs and opens up opportunities for small businesses among the youth, women, farmers, craftsmen and many more. Tourism is also an export which provides the country with foreign currency.

HM: Being a small island nation offers many challenges. These include our geographic isolation and limited resources. However, we are also affected by global situations, such as COVID-19, which will greatly affect the number of tourists visiting us. Finally, we are also affected by international competition – today many destinations are also trying to attract tourists.

But despite these factors, we have many projects aiming to boost tourism in the country. We realise with the implementation of these projects Sao Tomé and Príncipe will move forward. Consequently, we are optimistic about the future of tourism in the country.

Our Lady of Conception Church, São Tomé PHOTO BY CHUCK MORAVEC - SAO TOME 6, CC BY 2.0

150 | Outlook Travel issue 03

PHOTO BY HELENA VAN EYKEREN FROM GENT, BELGIUM - 2012SAOTOME-8, CC BY 2.0

PHOTO BY CHUCK MORAVEC - SAO TOME MINIPLECO MINIMART, CC BY 2.0

PHOTO BY CHUCK MORAVEC - SAO TOME 6, CC BY 2.0

PHOTO BY BEN SUTHERLAND FROM CRYSTAL PALACE, LONDON, UK - DSC_8084, CC BY 2.0

FOCUS ON

SÃO TO M É C I T Y SÃO TOMÉ CITY is the islands’ capital – a port city surrounded by beaches. Although it has gone into an economic decline since the departure of the Portuguese, it has several interesting attractions and a ‘leve leve’ (easy easy) attitude that makes it worth a visit.

For a start, there are some interesting colonial buildings, mostly located near Independence Square. These include Nossa Senhora da Graça, one of Africa’s oldest cathedrals, and São

Sebastião, a small fort which houses the national museum. CACAU, or Casa das Artes, Criação, Ambiente e Utopias (House of the Arts, Creativity, Environment and Utopias), is an ambitious cultural centre with a restaurant, theatre and exhibition space.

Meanwhile, for a taste of local culture, head to the city’s largest market, the chaotic Mercado Grande.

There are plenty of places to eat and drink in the city. Jasmin is a restaurant in a restored colonial

mansion, where you can enjoy pizza and hamburgers on a quiet terrace.

Thanks to its proximity to the ocean, there are plenty of places to pick up excellent seafood dishes, ranging from beach-front shacks to more upmarket offerings.

The city is well-positioned as a base for exploring the rest of the island. Hire a taxi for the day and visit places such as Roca Agostinho Neto – once the largest coffee plantation on the island – or the beautiful Blue Lagoon Bay. Outlook Travel issue 03 | 151

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS E AT: F O R LO C A L S P E C I A L I T I E S I N A P L A N TAT I O N H O U S E M U S E U M …

Casa Almada Negreiros For delicious seafood…

Chez Tete

PHOTO BY CHUCK MORAVEC - SAO TOME 35, CC BY 2.0

DO: F O R TA I LO R - M A D E TO U R S …

Ban Be Non Tours F O R V I S I TS TO CO F F E E FA R M S A N D B E YO N D… Café Tours PHOTO BY BEN SUTHERLAND FROM CRYSTAL PALACE, LONDON, UK - DSC_8001, CC BY 2.0

SLEEP: F O R A R E L AX I N G OAS I S N E A R T H E C I T Y… Emoyeni Gardens Hotel FOR BOUTIQUE ELEGANCE ON PRÍNCIPE… Roça Belo Monte by Africa’s Eden

PHOTO BY JI-ELLE - OWN WORK, CC BY-SA 4.0

152 | Outlook Travel issue 03

SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE TRAVEL GUIDE

English speaking, family run hotel in São Tomé.

Fast and free wifi.

Clean, comfy rooms.

Healthy, hearty breakfasts.

BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Great location!

emoyeni.gardens@gmail.com | +239 2222016 | +239 9920777 | www.emoyenigardens.com

LANDMARK AT T R A C T I O N S

PRAIA BANANA This banana-shaped curve of white sand is bordered by dense jungle and lapped by aquamarine waters.

You’ll be able to look down on it from the clifftop mirador; when you follow the path down to the sand, you’ll find a small bar hidden beneath the trees.

BAÍA DAS AGULHAS The Baía das Agulhas, or Bay of Spires, is one of the top sites in Príncipe. From the water, you’ll get an unmissable view of the island’s phonolite towers – remains of volcanoes so ancient that their soft outer shells have eroded, leaving behind the steeple-shaped core – punctuating the vegetation.

154 | Outlook Travel issue 03

SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE TRAVEL GUIDE

CLAUDIO CORALLO CHOCOLATE FACTORY Those with a sweet tooth shouldn’t miss a trip to this Italian-run chocolate factory in an old plantation house. You’ll learn all about the chocolate-making process on a fascinating tour of the premises.

And of course, there’s a chance to taste the products.

GETTING THERE AND AROUND TOURISTS VISITING THE islands will likely fly in via São Tomé International Airport. Both TAP Air Portugal and STP Airways offer one weekly direct flight from Lisbon, which takes six hours. There are also direct connections to several locations in Africa, including Lagos and Praia, in Cape Verde. Tourists visiting from outside these areas will need to take a connecting flight.

The best way to travel between São Tomé and Príncipe is to take a

45-minute flight with STP Airways (which run daily from Monday – Saturday). This is recommended over the ferry, as the six-hour crossing across open ocean can be rough.

The islands have neither a public bus service nor train network. Shared taxis are the most common form of transport. However, it’s also possible to book a private taxi – something your hotel should be able to arrange – or to hire a car, either with or without a driver.

Príncipe

São Tomé

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 155

M A L AW I

This African country will enchant and surprise you with its dramatic scenery, welcoming locals and heritage towns Writer: Dani Redd | Project Manager: Jordan Levey

M

alawi is the place to visit if you want to enjoy sublime natural landscapes without too many other people. Even the capital city of Lilongwe feels remarkably relaxed and uncrowded. It’s the place to visit if you enjoy friendly interactions. ‘Malawi’ translates to ‘the warm heart of Africa’ in the local language Chichewa, and the name is apt – you’ll find strangers welcoming you like an old friend.

One of the nation’s star attractions is Lake Malawi, a vast body of water stretching almost the entire length of the country and encircled by the peaks of the Great Rift Valley. All around the lake are beaches where you can relax or try watersports such as stand-up paddleboarding and jetskiing. You can also learn to scuba dive in the translucent waters or take a catamaran ride to some of the lake’s uninhabited islands. The Lake of Stars Festival, a three-day culture and music event, is held on the lakeshore every September.

In the south of the country you’ll find mist-shrouded forests and dramatic mountainscapes, including Mount Mulanje. Its highest peak is the 3,000 metre Sapitwa, which means ‘unreachable’ in Chichewa, although it can be climbed on a multiday hike. If going on safari is more your thing, Malawi has several opportunities for wildlife spotting – one of the best is Majete Wildlife Park, which has successfully reintroduced lions.

If you enjoy untouched landscapes and friendly interactions, then Malawi’s the country for you.

MALAWI TRAVEL GUIDE

Monkey Bay, Lake Malawi

MALAWI TRAVEL GUIDE

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

M A L AW I D E P A R T M E N T O F TO U R I S M MALAWI DEPARTMENT OF Tourism was created to maintain a vibrant destination image that inspires and informs potential visitors, the travel trade and the media. The intention is to encourage potential tourists around the globe to visit Malawi, the Warm Heart of Africa.

We caught up with Isaac Katopola, Director of Tourism, to find out more about the department and the country itself.

Outlook Travel (OT): What are your organisation’s current goals?

Isaac Katopola (IK): To create an enabling environment for the development, regulation and promotion of a sustainable tourism sector.

OT: Are there any interesting projects in the pipeline you wish to highlight?

IK: The Nankumba Peninsula tourism project is one worth highlighting.

Some of the key components in this project include construction of an integrated five-star resort at Cape Maclear and an international airport at Namiasi in Mangochi. In addition, the Mulanje Mountain Cable Car Project will provide environmentally friendly infrastructure in the area. We will also be building an ecotourism lodge in Malunje.

OT: Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Malawi?

IK: Malawi boasts lots of diversified natural and cultural tourism assets.

There are plenty of reasons why you should visit. For a start, there’s a 158 | Outlook Travel issue 03

Isaac Katopola, Director of Tourism

pleasant climate. Malawi is peaceful and compact and is renowned for its hospitality. As Africa’s newest ‘Big Five’ destination, it’s a great place for going on safari. There are lots of other outdoor sports on offer, especially around the gorgeous Lake Malawi.

The country has a fascinating cultural heritage too.

OT: What potential is there for ecotourism development in the country?

IK: Malawi’s tourism product is largely nature-based and this enables development of ecotourism as a main product. Malawi’s rich cultural heritage also offers potential for further development of eco-tourism in the country.

The rejuvenation of national parks and game reserves over the past decade has increased locals’ involvement and participation in conservation. Local SMEs close to protected areas have been able to engage in various economic activities aimed at sustaining their livelihoods.

In order to enhance the benefits derived from this, an investment masterplan which will identify

potential sites for ecotourism is being developed. This initiative is being supported by funds from the African Development Bank under the Promoting Investment and Competitiveness in the Tourism Sector Project (PICTS). The government is also encouraging public private partnership (PPP) models that will yield greater benefits to host communities surrounding major attractions in the country.

OT: What trends are transforming the tourism industry in Malawi and how are you utilising them?

IK: There has been growth in the number of meetings and conferences being hosted in Malawi. The Department offers technical support to event organisers as well as facilitating some of their activities aimed at enhancing event publicity.

Digitalisation is transforming how business is being undertaken in our tourism industry. We encourage local operators to provide reliable internet services to their clients and make use of social media and the internet to enhance their online presence for business growth. We have also intensified our social media presence, and are regularly updating our web page, so as to generate more content about tourism in Malawi.

Experiential travel is another travel trend transforming the industry. As Malawi is an off the beaten track destination, we appeal to those looking for a more authentic African experience. We have redefined our brand essence and market

Our Services Include: • Hotel shuttle • Crossroads Hotel spa • Business centre • Fitness centre • Wireless internet access Nearby Facilities: • Banks • Golf courses • Library • Shopping malls • Tennis courts Blantyre: +265 1 828 444 / 555 / +265 999 377 791 – btreservations@crossroadshotel.net

www.crossroadshotel.net

MALAWI TRAVEL GUIDE

There is also a lack of coordination among the various public and private stakeholders to carry the tourism agenda forward.

OT: Are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in Malawi?

Many game reserves have been completely transformed by improved environmental measures

positioning to highlight the diversity and uniqueness of our offering.

More and more operators in the industry are concerned about environmental impact and are developing mechanisms to minimise waste.

For instance, there is a reduction in the usage of plastic bottled water in some upmarket hotels, as well as recycling and reusing of glass bottles.

Malawi is one of the leaders in conservation. This has seen the country’s national parks and game reserves being completely transformed.

Furthermore, conservation has encouraged collaboration between government agencies and partners such as African parks to use PPP models to enhance local participation in the management of the country’s tourism resources.

160 | Outlook Travel issue 03

PHOTO: © DAVID DIGREGORIO

IK: I am certainly optimistic about the future of Malawi’s tourism industry.

With all the initiatives being undertaken to revamp wildlife tourism in the country, expand the ecotourism offer, open hotels and venues for business events and also to enable more flights into the country, it is my belief that Malawi will soon be strategically positioned to compete with her neighbours.

Lastly, the approval of the National Tourism Policy by the cabinet will see

Perfect Kaya Mawa Likoma Island

OT: What challenges does the tourist industry in Malawi face?

IK: We have a limited budget for destination marketing, which restricts access into some of the emerging markets that are outlined in the Strategic Tourism Marketing Framework.

No direct flights make it difficult to connect into the country. We rely on hubs such as Nairobi, Addis Ababa and Johannesburg which add more hours for travellers transiting to Malawi.

the establishment of Malawi Tourism Authority. This will enable a more focussed approach towards destination marketing of Malawi, unlike the current situation where this is done within the Department of Tourism.

Malawi Department of Tourism Tel: +265 1 775 499 info@visitmalawi.mw www.visitmalawi.mw

SERVICES: • Hotel shuttle • Crossroads Hotel spa • Business centre • Fitness centre • Wireless internet access

CLOSE TO: • Banks • Golf courses • Library • Shopping malls • Tennis courts

Lilongwe +265 1 750 333 / 444 | +265 888 513 105 | +265 888 750 444 reservations@crossroadshotel.net

www.crossroadshotel.net

Where minds and what really matters meet

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS

E AT: F OFROB DG T IRTAV RE ST … LUXU R I O U S RUA TE RT AD I OE NLALLE Y ST E A K H O U S E …

21 Grill on Hanover

SLEEP: F O R ST Y L I S H A N D ST I M U L AT I N G U R B A N LUXU RY… Latitude 13˚ F O R S O P H I ST I C AT E D U R B A N STAYS …

The Crossroads Hotel family consists of two chic urban hotels, Crossroads Hotel Lilongwe – conveniently located in Lilongwe’s Central Business District and linked to the Crossroads Shopping Complex – and Crossroads Hotel Blantyre, located in the heart of Blantyre. Both hotels appeal to business and leisure travellers, offering state of the art conference facilities, meeting rooms, a luxurious spa, fine-dining venues and elegant accommodation. The experience is enhanced by the company’s hospitable staff and personalised service. The hotels are the ideal venue for everything from a business meeting to a wedding banquet.

162 | Outlook Travel issue 03

DO: F O R T E A TAST I N G A N D CO F F E E TO U R S …

Huntingdon House

F O R G U I D E D H I K E S TO M A L AW I ’ S H I G H E ST P O I N T… K E Adventures

Bizmalawi Design

MALAWI TRAVEL GUIDE

Travel Malawi and see the Big 5 with us. www.ssrentacar.com

info@ssrentacar.com

BLANTYRE

LILONGWE

SPUTNIK CAR HIRE Your Travel Companion! www.sputnik-car-hire.mw

SPUTNIK Car Hire is based in Lilongwe, Malawi and offers a range of executive salon cars, mini buses, 15 to 29 seats and 4x4 vehicles for hire.

All our cars have Air Conditioning. Customers can opt for a self-drive or chauffeur driven; by arrangement.

Kassam House, Kagame Road, Lilongwe, Malawi.

E: sputnik@sdnp.org.mw E: sputnikcarhire@outlook.com T: +265 1 758 253 M: +265 999 967 771 (WhatsApp) +265 999950354 | +265 888950354

FOCUS ON

BLANTYRE BLANTYRE IS THE country’s commercial and industrial hub, and a more popular stopover with travellers than the capital, Lilongwe. Founded in 1876 by Scottish missionaries, it boasts a decent dining scene and some interesting cultural attractions.

The Museum of Malawi offers an interesting insight into the country’s history and heritage, with exhibitions on everything from the Iron Age to the country’s involvement in the slave trade. The Church of Central Africa Presbyterian building is a resplendent

red-brick construction of arches, columns and towers, topped with a dome. Mandala House is the city’s oldest building – a colonial mansion built in 1882, which now houses a library, art gallery and a welcoming café.

Another attraction of the city is its proximity to nature. It’s surrounded by hills, including Michiru Mountain.

At a 15-minute drive from town, it’s a popular spot for a hike, and is a haven for wildlife such as antelopes, monkeys and hyenas.

National Bank of Malawi office buildings, corner of Hanover Avenue and Henderson Street, Central Business District (CBD). Top: St Michael and All Angels Church designed by Reverend David Clement Scott and built by men with no training in architecture, construction or even brick-making. Above: Malawi Stock Exchange building, MSE, Victoria Avenue, CBD

MALAWI TRAVEL GUIDE

Game Haven Lodge

Escape to a Wild Island Paradise PROMO CODE info@bluezebra.mw to book https://bluezebra.mw/

The extensive range of exciting activities, included in the rooms, might be exactly what you’re looking for. Whether you’re a thrill seeker, bird watcher or just a lover of the outdoors, Game Haven Lodge has something for you.

BZOT20

Nankoma Island Lake Malawi National Park

T+265999971285/6/7/8 | E info@gamehavenmw.com

www.gamehavenmw.com

Rest as you disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature in the pristine Nkhota Kota Wildlife reserve.

• • • • •

Ng’ona Lodge Malawi An Oasis in the African Bush www.ngona-lodge.com

bush walks fishing river trips scenic drives cultural visits

Our luxurious, open-plan suites, with breath-taking views over the beautiful Bua River, offer the perfect retreat in which to relax after an exciting day of exploration in the reserve.

International: Tim Hanshall- tim@kamageo.com | +44(0) 1664 823750 Ext 208. lodge@tongole.com or call +265 999055778 reservations@tongole com | +265 999489392 Old Town Mall, Off Paul Kagame Road, Lilongwe. Tel: +265 1752647

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 165

LANDMARK AT T R A C T I O N S

NYIKA NATIONAL PARK Malawi’s oldest nature reserve is a picturesque landscape of gently undulating hills and grasslands that burst into flower after monsoon season. It’s possible to spot hyenas, elephants, leopards, jackals and many more in this captivating landscape.

LIVINGSTONIA CAPE MACLEAR One of the most picturesque spots on Lake Malawi, Cape Maclear is the place tourists never want to leave. Picture a long sweep of powdery white sand, lapped by shimmering waters that are speckled with islands. Lie in a hammock and watch the world go by or head out on a kayak to explore.

PHOTOS BY BENJAMIN DAHLHOFF - OWN WORK, CC BY-SA 3.0

For a fascinating glimpse into Malawi’s Scottish colonial past, head to the mountain village of Livingstonia (named after Dr David Livingstone).

The tree-lined main avenue is lined with old stone houses, and the mountain views are spectacular.

166 | Outlook Travel issue 03

MALAWI TRAVEL GUIDE

GETTING THERE AND AROUND THERE ARE NO direct flights to Malawi from Europe, the United States, Oceania or Asia. The easiest way to reach the country is to fly via another African destination, such as Kenya or South Africa.

Lilongwe International Airport is the largest in Malawi, flying to 10 different destinations in Africa, while Chileka International Airport is another popular point of entry into the country.

There are plenty of ways to get around within the country. Long distance buses are popular, and some tourists choose to hire a car – most of the main roads are sealed, although you will encounter

potholes. Minibuses will take you shorter distances within and between cities. It’s a great way to meet the residents, but if you prefer a more comfortable option then hiring a taxi is recommended.

If you’re short on time, you can fly from Lilongwe to Blantyre using the national carrier Malawian Airlines – the flight takes around an hour. But if you prefer slow travel, take the Ilala Ferry across Lake Malawi. It travels between Monkey Bay in the south and Chilumba in the north, making stops at lakeside villages and islands in between, and is a great way to check out the scenery.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 167

Sustainable tourism in the ‘warm heart of Africa’ Sustainable tourism isn’t just about finding environmentally friendly solutions to construction and waste management. It’s also about making a positive, longlasting impact on the countries and communities that you visit

“WE ARE REALLY committed to trying to make tourism benefit local communities. Our motto is ‘trade, not aid’, as we don’t want people to have to rely just upon the aid industry,” says Kate Webb, Director of The Responsible Safari Company (RSC).

She and her husband set up RSC in 2008, shortly after Kate completed a master’s degree in International Development and Education.

RSC is a social enterprise tour operator based in Malawi, specialising in sustainable, educational and experiential travel for everyone from school children to CSR Groups.

It arranges bespoke itineraries that incorporate safaris, responsible treks and kayaking trips with visits to local schools and communities to work on relevant projects, such as tree-planting, mural painting and much more.

168 | Outlook Travel issue 03

Tourists can also stay with local homestays for an immersive experience.

“Every time we have trips going into the communities we work with, they act as a business and invoice us. We pay for every person that visits,” Kate explains.

“With our community work, we haven’t started any of our own projects. We’ve only ever linked with existing community projects started by Malawians. That means we’re not replicating any work but supporting existing income-generating activities,” she continues.

RSC has supported three Malawi-based social initiatives since 2009. CISER (Community Initiative for Self Reliance) was started by Joseph, a boat-builder from Lake Malawi’s southern shores. He started a youth group to mitigate the effects of mass unemployment upon his community. The

MALAWI TRAVEL GUIDE

CISER youth group educate local villagers in the area on key development issues – tourists can join educational visits or help them prepare educational material to convey the effects of overfishing. It’s also possible to visit CISER’s plant nursery and learn about traditional boat building.

YODEP is a youth organisation working in villages at the foothills of Zomba Plateau. It was set up by a group of young people from the community to help address socio-economic conditions encountered by orphaned children, teenagers, the elderly and people infected and affected by HIV. RSC has been working with YODEP to set up an Early Years Education Centre and match-funded solar power for an IT centre benefitting 100 students and 40 teachers.

Visitors can take part in a community computer class or spend the day with YODEP, learning about the fantastic initiatives it runs in the area.

Nancholi Youth Organisation (NAYO) is an inspirational NGO supporting disadvantaged members of the Nancholi community in Blantyre. Visitors can work alongside teenage girls who have formed a village café, or visit a women’s sewing shop to learn how local handicrafts are made.

RSC has helped these communities in a variety of ways.

It has installed water pumps in four villages in Lake Malawi, benefitting 16,000 people, and started a student scholarship programme, mentoring and funding 15 students to date. Between 2013-2016 it donated $36,500 towards assisting these communities.

Kate and her husband Dom also have a UK-based company, Orbis Expeditions, which runs expeditions in Malawi with the same communities (using RSC to manage the on-the-ground logistics). The company have recently moved into corporate social responsibility expeditions, which help businesses connect with communities in Malawi.

“It’s very different from the conventional ‘come and build a classroom in Africa’. Instead, we tell businesses to visit Malawi and use their CSR to engage staff,” Kate says.

“Quite a lot of our clients have existing skills in finance or marketing and we help them link with local businesses and help them grow as well, so they’re directly benefitting the economy in Malawi.”

The Responsible Safari Company and Orbis Expeditions are examples of sustainable tourism projects that directly benefit local communities.

It’s worth remembering that in this current climate of uncertainty that it’s not just tourism companies that will be adversely affected, but the communities they help. Once travel bans have been lifted, we recommend supporting sustainable travel companies such as RSC, which support local communities and economies. www.responsiblesafaricompany.com www.orbis-skills.com Outlook Travel issue 03 | 169

ZAMBIA For wild landscapes and Africa’s most authentic safari experiences, this southern-central African country should be top of your list Writer: Dani Redd | Project Manager: Joe Palliser

RUGGED. WILD. REMOTE. Three adjectives that perfectly describe the landlocked country of Zambia. With its vast lakes and rivers, jagged hills and acres of bushland, it’s the perfect destination for nature-lovers. The jaw-dropping Victoria Falls is one of the country’s landmark natural attractions.

More than a third of Zambia’s land has been made into national parks and nature reserves – it’s renowned for its conservation initiatives. Kafue National Park is one of the largest in Africa, home to hundreds of birds and mammal species, while Africa’s first walking safari was pioneered in South Luangwa National Park. Go on safari in Zambia and you’ll be introduced to a host of wildlife – white rhinos, African elephants and leopards, to name but a few.

Livingstone is a must-visit for any adventure sports enthusiasts. Located just 11 kilometres from Victoria Falls, it’s the place to go for wild river rafting, bungee jumping and Devil’s Pool – a natural infinity pool perched on the edge of the falls, with a view of the 100-metre drop.

Meanwhile, Lake Kariba is one of Zambia’s top holiday spots; it offers a range of watersports, nature trails, luxury hotels and picturesque beaches.

Zambia is also known for its cultural diversity. It has 72 different ethnic groups (many speaking the bantu language), each with their own cultures and customs. Many of these groups celebrate their cultural heritage through hosting traditional festivals; Ku-omboka, one of the most well-known, celebrates the end of the rainy season.

You may visit Zambia for the safari opportunities it offers, but we guarantee that you’ll also be captivated by its cultural offerings.

ZAMBIA TRAVEL GUIDE

Victoria Falls

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Z A M B I A TO U R I S M AG E N CY THE ZAMBIA TOURISM Agency (formerly Zambia Tourism Board) was established in 2015 to market and promote Zambia as a travel destination of choice, and to regulate the tourism industry.

Now, more than ever, this is necessary. In 2018, Zambia received a total of 1,072,012 international tourist arrivals (a 6.2 percent increase on 2017), and in 2019 1.2 million arrivals were recorded.

We caught up with Betty Mumba, Zambia Tourism Authority’s Communications Manager, to find out more about Zambia’s tourism offering and the organisation’s goals and vision.

Outlook Travel (OT): What are your organisation’s current goals?

Betty Mumba (BM): The current focus for Zambia is to leverage on enhancing domestic tourism whilst riding on international marketing efforts. In the 2020 national budget, the

African Elephant bull drinking on the Zambezi river 172 | Outlook Travel issue 03

Betty Mumba, Communications Manager government announced improved funding to support the Northern Circuit, a region that has myriad tourism offerings consisting of waterfalls, national parks and other heritage sites as well as the rich traditional ceremonies that occur annually.

Zambia will also continue marketing the Victoria Falls, which as you know received negative media publicity during the dry season. The water flow of the Falls has increased, since Zambia experienced above average rainfall.

A number of efforts have already been put in place to ensure that the

destination continues attracting new arrivals whilst building on old ones.

For instance, the Zambia Tourism Agency worked tirelessly with the immigration department to create a visa system that is easy and flexible for travellers. With the introduction of e-visa services following the on-line payments implementation, Zambia has seen an immediate increase in tourism enquiries.

OT: How do you market Zambia as a destination?

BM: The Zambia Tourism Agency has marketed Zambia through various platforms, including digital marketing, which has had immediate results.

Currently, a fully-fledged e-marketing office is in place to ensure presence of the destination on social media such as FB, Twitter, Instagram and the web.

Zambia has also leveraged on international agents that we work with to market the country. Further,

ZAMBIA TRAVEL GUIDE

the country has continued utilising the missions abroad to aggressively market the destination. Zambia also participates at selected international exhibitions such as ITB Berlin, FITUR in Madrid and Vankantibuers in the Netherlands to mention a few.

On the domestic tourism front, a robust campaign to entice every Zambian to take up their holiday has been embarked upon. This has been done through collaboration with the private sector to give reduced rates during the off-peak season. This campaign is called the green season special.

OT: Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Zambia?

BM: Zambia is endowed with a very rich tourism offering comprising natural and manmade products such as waterfalls, lakes and rivers, a rich and diverse cultural heritage, heritage sites, adventure and hot springs to name a few. The country still offers VERY authentic and exclusive tourism products. Zambia’s national parks are among the best in the world, offering huge diversity of wildlife.

Other unique features of Zambia include the one and only Seven

Natural Wonders of the World and the Victoria Falls; the Devil’s Pool, an adrenaline-packed swim by the lip of the Victoria Falls, is only accessible on the Zambian side, as is Livingstone Island, where David Livingstone first viewed the falls. Lake Tanganyika in Northern Zambia is the world’s longest freshwater lake and largest and deepest in Africa.

The country has some unique landmarks including the gorge swing in Livingstone, the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Lusaka, Mwela Rocks in Kasama, Mukuni village in Livingstone and The Moto Moto museum and WWI graves in Mbala.

ZAMBIA TRAVEL GUIDE

Zambia has unrivalled wildlife offerings. The world’s biggest mammal migration takes place in Zambia at the Kasanka National Park, when more than 10 million fruit-eating bats converge from October to December annually; the wildebeest migration in Liuwa National Park also attracts tourists. The Thornicroft giraffe can only be found in Zambia in South Luangwa National Park.

Lastly, there’s the hospitality of the Zambian people. Zambia is a beacon of peace and a shining example within Africa of a country that has never been to war and continues living in harmony. All these offerings are reasons why someone MUST visit Zambia.

OT: How do you promote sustainable travel?

BM: Zambia remains committed to the sustainable use of natural resources as a result of good conservation management – it is in the collective interest to ensure that natural resources are used in a sustainable manner. Zambia has seized every opportunity to benefit from the global

Cycling is a hugely popular activity in Zambia

transformative action of sustainable tourism by making the country a better ecotourism attraction and to advance home-grown tourism.

The Zambian Government continues encouraging preservation of the environment and addressing climate change challenges. Zambia set a precedent as the first country in the world to declare its national park (South Luangwa National Park) and surrounding areas as an international sustainable park for tourism development.

OT: Are there any interesting projects in the pipeline you wish to highlight?

BM: The Zambia Tourism Agency is currently implementing the provisions of Statutory Instrument No. 14 of 2018 on accommodation standards. This SI has empowered it to grade and license all tourism enterprises. The grading exercise has started and so far over 30 tourism establishments have been graded.

Zambia adopted the star grading of one star to five stars. This project is extremely important for the country

as the last classification and grading of accommodation facilities was done in 1995.

OT: What trends are transforming the tourism industry in Zambia and how are you utilising them?

BM: The latest trend transforming the tourism industry is the transaction of tourism through the digital space. In Zambia social media platforms have proved to be cost-effective tools for tourism promotion: these include Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The Zambia Tourism Agency has a fully-fledged e-marketing department that is responsible for marketing Zambia’s tourism activities through the digital space.

We have actually benefitted greatly in reaching larger audiences and it is one of the most cost-effective marketing tools to use in tourism promotion. Other e-platforms that Zambia is utilising include e-visa and payment platforms; e-licensing software and recently developed e-grading software. These platforms have made tourism services more flexible, convenient and cost-effective.

30 tourism establishments have been graded

OT: Are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in Zambia?

OT: What challenges does the tourist industry in Zambia face?

BM: Lack of adequate funding for the sector, and lack of official representation in certain overseas markets. We also suffer from poor accessibility to tourist sites and border crossing challenges. Airline connectivity is also a problem, as Zambia currently has no national carrier.

BM: Zambia remains optimistic about the future of the tourism industry as the country builds upon 2019, when it recorded over 1.2 million international arrivals. The massive investment by the government in infrastructure development, such as huge expansions at Zambia’s major airports, has opened access to Zambia by attracting renowned airlines such as Turkish Airways, which connects to the highest amount of destinations in the world. The reintroduction of a national carrier by the government will also contribute to increased traffic for both domestic and international travellers.

The government has also prioritised a more diversified tourism sector that will offer different products, integrating the country’s rich cultural heritage into tourism packages beyond traditional ceremonies.

Nonetheless, the tourism sector has faced a potential risk for global arrivals as the world grapples with the deadly coronavirus. The impact is yet to be felt as the pandemic evolves.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 175

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS E AT: F O R G LO B A L C U I S I N E I N N AT U R A L S U R R O U N D I N G S N E A R LU SA KA …

Sugarbush Café FOR A TENTED FINE-DINING R E STAU R A N T W I T H I TS OW N E L E P H A N T H E R D… The Elephant Café

DO: F O R I CO N I C M O B I L E WA L K I N G SA FA R I S …

Robin Pope Safaris

SLEEP: F O R A C A L M R E T R E AT W I T H V I E WS O F ZAMBEZI RIVER… Chundukwa River Lodge offers luxurious private chalet accommodation on the shores of the Zambezi River. With its plunge pool, lush indigenous gardens and deck overlooking the river, it’s the perfect spot for an intimate safari. Enjoy a sunset boat cruise, horse riding or sightseeing excursions to nearby Victoria Falls.

F O R A H E L I CO P T E R R I D E OV E R T H E V I C TO R I A FA L L S …

Wild Horizons

F O R A ST Y L I S H STAY I N T H E C A P I TA L …

Radisson Blu Hotel Lusaka

176 | Outlook Travel issue 03

RIDE WHERE NO ONE HAS RIDDEN BEFORE SIMALAHA HORSE SAFARIS OFFER A UNIQUE RIDING EXPERIENCE COMBINING WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS AND CULTURAL INTERACTION,TOGETHER WITH KNOWLEDGEABLE GUIDES AND STAFF, COMFORTABLE BUSH ACCOMMODATION, HOT SHOWERS AND GOOD HORSES TO BOOT.

Simalaha Horse Safaris offer three package options, some combining a riding holiday with visiting Victoria Falls and staying at Chundukwa River Lodge: SEVEN NIGHTS (riding with wildlife, Chundukwa and Victoria Falls), FIVE NIGHTS (riding with wildlife, Chundukwa and Victoria Falls), THREE NIGHTS (Simalaha, riding only).

For inquiries and reservations contact reservations@chundukwa.com For more on Simalaha: www.peaceparks.org/simalaha

ZAMBIA TRAVEL GUIDE

FOCUS ON

LUSAKA LUSAKA IS OFTEN perceived by tourists as a stopover city. However, the country’s capital has a lot to offer – an excellent nightlife, some decent restaurants and interesting cultural attractions. It’s also a transport hub, with good bus and flight connections to other destinations within Zambia.

Begin your stay with a visit to Lusaka Museum, where you’ll find exhibits on urban culture, Zambian history, and the works of contemporary Zambian artists.

StART Foundation and Henry Tayali Art Gallery are also renowned for

178 | Outlook Travel issue 03

their modern art collections. Another way to find out more about Zambian culture is to head to one of the city’s vibrant local markets – Comesa Market is a great spot for picking up

swathes of colourful fabric and trying local foods.

Lusaka National Park is just 15 kilometres from the city. It’s set over 46 square kilometres, and visitors to the park are home to giraffes, wildebeest and even white rhinos.

In the evening, you’ll find plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants to keep you amused until the small hours.

Alpha Bar is popular with locals, and has music playing every night of the week. Sky Bar offers up views of the city skyline and attracts a young, hip crowd.

ZAMBIA TRAVEL GUIDE ZTA Advert.pdf

C

M

1

19/03/2020

10:38

WELCO ME TO

Y

EN J OY S TYLI S H SPACES DES IGNED FOR BU S I N ES S & LEI S U R E . ONLY A 15 M IN UTE DRI VE F ROM TH E AIRPORT & C ON VEN I ENT LY LO C AT ED IN LU SAKA’S CBD, A SHORT WA LK TO TH E MAIN SHO PP I N G M A LLS.

CM

MY

CY

CMY

THE BLU

K

19029 Great East Road, Private Bag E10, P.O. Box 382, Arcades, Lusaka, Zambia T: +260 960 280900 info.lus aka@r adi sso nblu.co m radisso nblu .co m/ho tel-lusa ka

Outlook Creative Services

Outlook Publishing’s award-winning in-house team is now utilising its extensive production skills to offer a full and bespoke range of editorial, design and marketing services via its new Outlook Creative Services division.

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N V I S I T: www.outlookpublishing.com/creative-services

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 179

ZAMBIA TRAVEL GUIDE

LANDMARK AT T R A C T I O N S SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK This national park is one of the best in Africa when it comes to scenery and variety of animals. Bisected by the vast Luangwa River, the park is famous for its buffalo herds, which head to the river in their masses every dry season. You’ll also see elephants, hippos, impalas, waterbucks, giraffe and much more here.

VICTORIA FALLS At 108 metres high and 1,708 metres wide, Victoria Falls is the world’s largest waterfall. It was known by locals as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” (“The Smoke That Thunders”), thanks to the clouds of mist that billow upwards from the force of the water, often producing striking rainbows.

KAFUE NATIONAL PARK This is Zambia’s biggest national park, covering around 22,500 square kilometres. It’s also the most accessible, with many safari camps accessible by public transport. The park’s most popular area is the Busanga Plains – grasslands (accessible only from July to November) where you’ll spot lions, cheetahs and hyenas hunting their prey.

180 | Outlook Travel issue 03

GETTING THERE AND AROUND LUSAKA AIRPORT – the largest in Zambia – offers direct flights to 21 destinations in 12 countries. Most of these are in Africa, but Dubai and Istanbul (both major flight hubs) are also served.

If you’re short on time, the quickest way to cover ground is by flying. Zambia has airports near many major tourist destinations such as Livingstone and Mfuwe (for South Luangwa National Park). Proflight has the most extensive flight network in Zambia.

Some travellers choose to travel around Zambia by bus.

Journeys between destinations can be long, and buses vary in quality. Mazhandu Family Bus Services is a popular carrier.

One of the quickest and most convenient ways to get around is to hire a taxi, especially when travelling short distances within cities. As taxis don’t have meters, make sure you agree on a price before embarking on your journey.

Outlook Travel issue 03 | 181

THE LAST STOP TRISTAN DA CUNHA

T R I S TA N D A C U N H A

THE LAST S T O P.

182 | Outlook Travel issue 03

P O P U L AT I O N – 2 6 4 TRISTAN DA CUNHA is the world’s remotest island, as it’s the furthest place in the world from any inhabited settlement. Located in the South Atlantic, around 2,800 kilometres from Cape Town and 2,400 kilometres from the island of St. Helena, it’s battered by high waves and heavy rains. There’s no Wi-Fi, no airport, barely any tourist amenities.

Yet people are still desperate to visit.

Tristan even has its own fan page on Facebook.

The island gets its name from Tristao da Cunha, the Portuguese sailor believed to have first sighted it in 1506. Due to its remote location, it wasn’t settled until the British took possession in 1806, mainly to keep an eye on Napoleon Bonaparte (exiled to Saint Helena). Several of the British military stayed behind and over the years more settlers washed up on shore: shipwrecked mariners from Italy and the Netherlands; American whalers; women from St Helena. These days, the island has a population of 264. All the inhabitants have one of

seven surnames: Glass, Green, Hagan, Laverello, Repetto, Rogers or Swain.

Tristan da Cunha can be reached on an Oceanwide Expeditions cruise, or by fishing vessels and cargo boats leaving a few times a year from Cape Town. However, visitor spaces are limited as locals, doctors and official visitors are given priority.

If you do ever make it to the island, you’ll find that the only pub, The Albatross, is open for a few hours a day. A shop sells knitwear, stamps and homemade crisps (potatoes are the only vegetable not in short supply on the island).

You can walk around the island’s only settlement, Edinburgh of the Seven Seas, or hike across the rugged terrain to landmarks such as Ridge-Where-the-Goat-Jump-Off and Hillpiece. Seek out the resident rockhopper penguins, with their brightly coloured plumage. Help the locals dig their potatoes at an area known as The Patches. Aside from that, there’s precious little to do. And perhaps that’s precisely the point.

Romania has told its story...

ISSUE 03

OMAN

Desert views and Bedouin culture

MALAWI

Africa’s warm heart

SIMPLE WAYS TO TRAVEL MORE SUSTAINABLY Five easy tips

YOUR TRAVEL GUIDE TO

ROMANIA

Interview with Stu McKenzie, award-winning photographer, army veteran and Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society

ROMANIA

army veteran and Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society Interview with Stu McKenzie, award-winning photographer,

T

he unrelenting demand to travel, both for business and leisure purposes, is showing no signs of slowing up, and for Outlook Publishing, the growing extent to which we are covering this industry across our existing titles has led to the launch of Outlook Travel magazine.

The major component of the publication takes the form of our Outlook Travel Guides, providing executives, avid travellers and our existing 575,000 international subscribers with the ultimate rundown of all the major economic drivers and thriving hubs across the world, with exclusive input from tourism industry associations and stakeholders – the people who know these places the best.

You can join the vast numbers of tourism sector players enjoying the exposure we provide across our digital and print platforms with a range of options, from advertising through to free-of-charge editorials, extensive social media saturation, enhanced B2B networking opportunities, and a readymade forum to attract new investment and increase exposure.

For further information, visit www.outlooktravelmag.com

YOUR TRAVEL GUIDE TO

Now why not tell us yours?

Africa’s warm heart

MALAWI

Bedouin culture Desert views and

OMAN

Five easy tips

SUSTAINABLY TRAVEL MORE WAYS TO SIMPLE

IT’S HIGH TIME BUSINESS MEETS LEISURE

Situated in the heart of Menlyn Maine, The Maslow Time Square is Sun International’s 238-room specialist business hotel. Not only a destination for professionals, but a portal for travellers. Boasting 17 floors that offer everything from business to leisure with tempting eateries, a relaxing business lounge and 13 bespoke conference rooms.

For the perfect balance of business and pleasure, be our guest.

THE MASLOW TIME SQUARE

209 Aramist Avenue, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa Tel: 0860 846 377 / 0860 TIMESQ Central Reservations: +27 11 780 7800 timesquare.reservations@suninternational.com