Arab Turkish Travel Magazine May 2014

AT &

Arab & Turkish

Trave Magazine MAY 2014

www.arabturkishtravel.com

Turkish Bath,

Hammam

Turkish Natural Spas & Hot Springs

Algeria

Morocco

Bahrain

Oman

Comoros

Palestine

Djibouti

Qatar

Egypt

Saudi Arabia

Iraq

Somalia

Jordan

Sudan

Kuwait

Syria

Tunisia

Lebanon

Turkey

Libya

U.A.E

Mauritania

Yemen

Inside This Issue

6 12 Cover Story, Turkish Natural Spas & Hot Springs 20 News From Arab Market 28 Exhibition ATM 2013 12

Turkish Bath, Hammam

6 21

Cristal Hotel Erbil opens

News From Arab Market

MAY 2014

20

Turkish Natural Spas & Hot Springs

ATM 2013

28 Lebanon

Palestine

Syria

Algeria

Egypt

Libya

Qatar

Tunisia

Bahrain

Iraq

Mauritania

Saudi Arabia

Turkey

Comoros

Jordan

Morocco

Somalia

U.A.E

Djibouti

Kuwait

Oman

Sudan

Yemen

Arab & Turkish Travel Magazine Prepared by S&M Publication Ltd. ART DIRECTOR: Fatih Tahtal覺 OFFSET PREPARATION: Repronet Reprod羹ksiyon FILM&PRINTED: Repronet HEAD OFFICE: S&M PUBLICATION LTD.Muratreis Muradiye Mektep Sokak 13/1 Baglarbasi- 81140 Istanbul-TURKEY Tel:+90.216.391 3795 Fax:+90.216.391 3796 www.arabturkishtravel:com ALL EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES TO suat@arabturkishtravel.com - ozgur@arabturkishtravel.com

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Turkish Bath, Hammam

In most traditional hammams, the washing spaces are separated by marble panels to create a sense of privacy. Once scrubbed, take your place on the warm marble slab called the gobektasi in the hot section, where your attendant is ready with a lacy, foam-filled cloth for a sudsy massage.

6ď źMay 2014

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Turkish Bath, Hammam

H

istory of bath goes back to Romans. Excavations made in Pompeii that stayed under ashes when Vesuvius Volcano exploded, revealed baths used by Romans. It is understood that those baths are not only used for cleanness but also for pleasure and entertainment. As there were class distinctions between Romans, entrance doors of nobles and slaves and places they bathed were separated. There were also steam bath places, cold and warm water pools in Roman baths.

Ottomans conquered Istanbul physically but Byzantine, who reflected rich cultural influence inherited from Romans, conquered Ottomans with their baths like many other things. In the most magnificent period of empire, there was always one bath only for women at certain days of the week with hot and cold baths, fountains, marble rooms with dome in each district of the city.

Religion was the main reason of significance of baths in Ottoman culture. According to Koran, being clean was not just an important part of religion; it was essential. These marble temples helped creation of a social life consisting of bathing, massage and conversations.

Friendships and finding chance of marriages were also important factors as much as health and religion.

Because these were the only places where Ottoman women, living behind closed doors, could become socialized. Even rich women used to visit baths in district at least once a week, although they had special house baths.

They used to go to baths in company of servants, together with towel, brush, henna, eye liner, a Cretan soup and pattens with mother-ofpearls. This ceremonial preparation arose from spending nearly the whole day in bath, instead of few hours.

Historians don’t know exactly when people started to bathe indoors.

But we do know that the Ottoman Turks inherited the Roman bath concept—architecture and tradition—as it existed in Asia Minor. They adapted it to Turkish tastes, and called it “hammam.” Although modern Turks do most of their showering at home, the public hammam is still a major part of the culture, as much a place about cleansing as it is about relaxing. Here’s a roadmap to enjoying a Turkish bath in the traditional way. And yes, that means naked.

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May 20147

Turkish Bath, Hammam

Hammam experience Female and male sections are separated in traditional hammams.

Yet the bathing rituals are similar between the sexes. The hammam experience is about leaving yourself in the hands of your tellak or natir, the male or female attendants respectively, who guide visitors through the progressively warmer sections of the bath.

There are a number of different services on offer in most hammans, and you have to sort this out at the beginning. A traditional Turkish bath package includes 45 minutes of washing; traditional body scrubbing with handwoven wash cloth known as a kese; a foam wash; and a massage.

Hammam dressing

The attendants usually provide visitors with a peshtemal, a thin cotton towel to wrap yourself and a regular towel to use after bathing. It is okay to bring your bathing suit or bikinis; but, since few others—and no Turks—will be wearing anything, it’s not recommended for the true experience. Almost all historic baths in Istanbul have a dressing section where you can store securely your belongings.

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Turkish Bath, Hammam Hammam relaxing Once you are ready, the bath attendant will take you into the warm section. Here you can relax and sweat next to a kurna, the small marble basin. Next comes the scrubbing, which is done by the attendant. Sit back and relax, and let him or her scrub every inch of your body with the kese.

And don’t worry: In most traditional hammams, the washing spaces are separated by marble panels to create a sense of privacy. Once scrubbed, take your place on the warm marble slab called the gobektasi in the hot section, where your attendant is ready with a lacy, foam-filled cloth for a sudsy massage.

Following this rejuvenating experience, most linger in the bath area and relax. The hot section of a historic Turkish bath is the most impressive part: It is usually designed so that rays of light filtered into this area from a high central dome, illuminating the steam and creating an otherworldly feeling.

Hammam drinks

Back in the cold section, many hammams will serve visitors a glass of sherbet, Ottoman-style juice, or a cup of Turkish tea. The idea here is to spend a few minutes allowing your body to come back to its regular temperature. It’s also a time to tip your attendants, which is normal in the hamman. ( Photographs,Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Bath)

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Cover Story

Turkish Natural Spas & Hot Springs

A

visit to Turkey would not be complete without a stop at one of the country’s better known spas, whether to treat a health -problem or simply to luxuriate in the soothing waters of natural mineral baths.

A stop at one of the spas described here can easily be added to a tour of Turkey’s most famous destinations.

The health-giving properties of Turkey’s natural hot springs have been renowned since antiquity.

The ancient city of Hierapolis was built on the site of the rich mineral waters of Pamukkale, where the steaming water has hollowed enormous circular basins in the earth as it flowed down the mountainside, coating the slopes in a smooth layer of dazzlingly white calcareous rock.

No doubt, the residents of the ancient Lycian city of Caunos bathed in the mineral-rich mud of nearby Köyceğiz Lake.

The- Balçova/İzmir hot springs are located on the site of the Baths of Agamemnon, known and used in Roman times for their therapeutic qualities.

Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, is nestled against Uludag (Mt. Olympos). There the natural hot springs of Çekirge prompted the Ottomans to build a large complex of domed baths during the reign of Murat 1 (1359-1389) on the site of an earlier Roman and Byzantine bath complex.

On the shores of the Aegean, Çeşme is famous for its natural mineral springs and the therapeutic qualities of the sea.

And amidst the verdant forests of the southern shore of the Sea of Marmara, Yalova hot springs pour out mineral-rich water, thought to cure a variety of ailments.

The thermal waters of spas described in this brochure have been tested by the Turkish Ministry of Health, and thermal waters which are also safe for drinking have been noted. The most popular spas are concentrated in the Marmara and Aegean regions of western Turkey and are easily accessible from Turkey’s major cities, İstanbul, İzmir, and Ankara.

But while touring through Turkey’s Central Anatolian Region there is one thermal spa well worth mentioning here, a spa of such an extraordinary character that it is unique in the world. It is visited by people from everywhere who are searching for cures. This healing spa is called “Kangal Hot Springs with Fish” and it is only 13 km from the town of Kangal in the province of Sivas. The beneficial waters contain myriad small fish (2-10

12May 2014

cm long), which play a vital part in curing various skin diseases. Thermal spas in the Black Sea region include Samsun-Ladik and Rize-Ayder.

Another thermal complex, known for maintaining international standards in its thermal therapy center is located in Yoncalı near Kütahya.

Bursa

This first capital of the Ottoman Empire has been famous for centuries for the therapeutic qualities of its natural hot springs.

One of the earliest recorded visitors who came to Bursa to enjoy the waters was Byzantine Empress Theodora. Today, the Ottoman baths, known as Eski Kaplıca, continue to function as part of the Kervansaray Thermal in the Çekirge district of Bursa. The five-star Çelik Palas Thermal Hotel also has luxurious facilities with natural hot springs and baths offering various treatments. The domed baths run by the Kervansaray Thermal are an excellent example of early Ottoman architecture.

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Highly recommended for their thermal spring facilities are the following spas listed by province: Çankırı: Çavundur Denizli: Pamukkale, Karahayıt Diyarbakır: Çermik Erzurum: Pasinler Izmir: Balçova, Çeşme, Sifne Konya: Ilgın Kütahya: Yoncalı, Harlek Manisa: Salihli Muğla: Sultaniye

Adana: Haruniye Afyon: Heybeli Ankara: Kızılcahamam, Ayas, Haymana Balıkesir: Gönen Bingöl: Kös Bolu: Büyük Kaplıca Bursa: Çekirge, Oylat Çanakkale: Kestanbol

Rize: Ayder Sakarya: KuzuIuk Samsun: Ladik, Havza Siirt: Billoris Sivas: Kangal Van: Hasanabdal Yalova: Yalova Thermal, Armutlu

Although some of these particular spas are not luxurious, the main advantage is being able to enjoy their therapeutic benefits in natural surroundings. Take a lesson from the ancients and treat yourself to a natural health cure during your visit to Turkey.

Capacity The Cekirge hot springs flow at the rate of 5 liters per second. The Kervansaray baths can accommodate 600 people per day, while the Çelik Palas can provide curative baths to 400 people per day.

Physio-chemical Characteristics and Indications The thermal waters of the Çekirge springs are composed of calcium, magnesium sulfate and bicarbonate; the water temperature ranges from 39-58c with a pH ranging from 6.6 to 7.2, and a total mineral content of 1,164 mg/It. These hot springs are good for rheumatic diseases, hepatic and gall bladder diseases, metabolic disorders, gynecological diseases and post- operative problems. Çekirge Thermal Treatments Eski Kaplica, run by the Kervansaray Thermal features hot mineral pools, baths and a Turkish bath with natural hot springs. Treatments in hot mineral pools and baths, as well as massage, underwater massage and electro-physical therapy are available at the Çelik Palas Hotel. Oylat Thermal Center is 27 km from İnegöl in a forest at the foot of Uludağ Mountain. The hot spring has been used for 2000 years. The temperature is 40.5 C, the pH is 7.3, and the mineral content 3000 mg/lt.

Yalova The Yalova hot springs are located to the south of the Sea of Marmara, 13 km southwest of the provincial center of Yalova in a wonderfully green setting.

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Capacity The Yalova hot springs have a natural water outlet, flowing at a rate of 15 liters per second. With 1,651 total beds, this amounts to 600 liters of water/person/day.

Physio-chemical Characteristics and Indications Yalova hot springs have a composition of sodium chloride, calcium sulfate and fluoride. With a temperature of 60-65 C, a pH of 7.8, and 1,435 mg/It total mineral content, the waters are suitable for both bathing and drinking. Yalova hot springs are known for their therapeutic qualities, especially for rheumatic diseases, digestive maladies, neurological and urological disorders and metabolic problems. The Armutlu hot spring is 4 Ian northeast of Yalova. The water is 57-73 C with a pH of 6.2 to 6.5. It flows at a rate of 10 lit/sec.

Yalova Thermal Treatments Yalova spa has both indoor and outdoor pools and baths, and offers massage, underwater massage and drinking cures. With a treatment capacity of nearly 2,000 people per day, the spa includes a first-class restaurant, a cafe, a very attractive park and a forest.

May 201413

Cover Story

Bolu The Bolu hot springs are 5 km south of Bolu in the western Black Sea region in the foothills of the Ala Mountains.

The Balçova hot springs are located on the site of the Baths of Agamemnon, known in antiquity for the therapeutic qualities of its waters.

Balçova Thermal Treatments According to one legend, Agamemnon was advised by an oracle to bring soldiers who had been wounded during the campaign against Troy to the sulfur-rich waters of these natural hot springs. Balcova is situated to the west of the Aegean port of Izmir.

Capacity The Balçova hot springs flow from two exploratory wells at a rate of 28 liters per second. The facilities can accommodate 3,456 bath-days on the basis of 600 liters per person per day, per bath.

Physio-chemical Characteristics and Indications:

Bolu Thermal Treatments Physio-Chemical Characteristics and Indications The waters contain bicarbonate, sulphate, calcium, magnesium, and carbon dioxide. The pH is 5.82-6.36 and the temperature 42-44 C. The thermal waters are beneficial for the treatment of liver, gall bladder, kidney, and urinary problems. Treatment the thermal waters and steam are good for bathing, drinking and inhaling. Nearby is the privately operated Küçük Kaplıca.

Balıkesir - Gönen

The Balçova hot springs contain sodium chloride and calcium bicarbonate.

The springs have a water temperature ranging from 62 to 80 C, a pH of 6.4, and a mineral content of 1,369 mg/It. These hot springs are recommended for the treatment of rheumatic diseases, digestive maladies, post-injury healing and post- operative problems, along with calcification and metabolic disorders.

The Balçova hot spring complex, with a total capacity of 3,000 people per day, provides hot mineral pools and baths, offers a patient therapy pool, sauna , massage, underwater massage, ultrasound, physical exercise, electro-therapy and physical therapy. The complex also has a new park.

İzmir- Çeşme Çeşme is abundantly endowed with natural hot springs.

Located on the Aegean coast, 80 km west of Izmir, the holiday resort has excellent hotels with complete spas. Some use mineral waters from natural hot springs, while the facilities at the Altın Yunus Holiday Resort utilize mineral rich seawater.

This hot spring is located next to the Gönen Stream in Gönen County in the province of Balıkesir in the Marmara Region.

Capacity Gönen Thermal Treatments Pyshio-Chemical Characteristics and Indications The thermal water is 730C with a pH of 7.36. It is classified as hypothermal, hypotonic mineral water which is good for drinking and bathing. The water contains 0.590 mg/lt ammonia, 528.770 mg/lt sodium, 29.325 mg/lt potassium, and 278.637 mg/It chlorine.

İzmir - Balçova

The hot springs on the long sandy beach flow at a rate of 15 liters per second and can accommodate 500 people a day. The Altın Yunus Holiday Resort, situated in a cove along the seaside, has a Natural Sea Spa which can also handle 500 people per day.

Physio-chemical Characteristics and Indications Cesme hot springs contain a high level of sodium chloride, magnesium sulphate, and calcium bicarbonate. The water temperature is 55 C with a pH of 6.5, and the mineral content is 2,720 mg/lt. The sea water used in the Altın Yunus spa has a similar composition. These waters are heated and used for treating rheumatic, dermatological and gynecological diseases. They are also recommended for neurological exhaustion and to help strengthen muscles after surgery. The Şifne-Ilica hot springs have 42 C water with a pH of 6.76.

Çeşme Treatments Çeşme has hot mineral pools and baths, and offers underwater massage, physical and electrotherapy. The Altın Yunus spas incorporate similar facilities along with physical exercise and geriatric units.

Denizli-Pamukkale At Pamukkale (“Cotton Castle”) nature has produced a sight of spectacular beauty. For thousands of years a deep underground spring has been pouring out streams of hot, mineral-saturated water. As it has flowed down the mountainside the steaming water has hollowed enormous circular basins in the earth, and the water’s rich mineral content has coated them in a smooth layer of dazzlingly-white calcareous rock. To the ancients such beauty could only mean that the place was sacred to

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Hotel Izmir Palas Atatürk Caddesi 35210 Izmir-Turkey. Tel:+90 232 465 00 30 Fax:+90 232 422 68 70info@izmirpalas.com.tr – www. izmirpalas.com.tr

Cover Story Physio-chemical Characteristics and Indications

the gods. Built near the natural hot springs, the grand city of Hierapolis attracted a steady stream of pilgrims, who came to bathe in the curative waters. Pamukkale is located 250 km from Izmir and 20 km from Denizli.

Most of the hotels are in Karahayit, 5 Ian north of Pamukkale. The water is 42-56 C, the pH is 5.98, similar to Pamukkale, but the water has more iron content.

Capacity The Pamukkale hot springs flow at a rate of 400 liters per second. The various facilities can accommodate about 6,000 people/day total which amounts to 600 liters of water/person/day.

Physco-chemical Characteristics and indications The mineral-rich Pamukkale hot spring waters are rich in calcium, magnesium sulfate and bicarbonate. They also contain carbon dioxide and have a radioactive content of 1,537 picokuri/liter (or 56 bekerel/liter).

Water temperature is 36 to 38 C with a pH of 6. Total mineral content is 2,430 mg/It. The waters are used both for drinking and bathing. They are recommended for the treatment of rheumatic, dermatological and gynecological diseases, neurological and physical exhaustion, digestive maladies and nutritional disorders.

Pamukkale Treatments Throughout history, Pamukkale has been a famous spa, with both baths and open pools set into the snow-white cliffs. Bath treatments take place in natural pools developed around the main hot springs. Hot mineral water spas have been opened at a number of new and very comfortable hotels in the area.

The Rıza Çavuş natural hot springs contain sodium chloride, hydrogen, sulfur, bromide, fluoride, and are naturally radioactive (3,770 picokuri/ liter, or 139 bekerel/liter), with a total salt and mineral content of 2,800 mg/It. The temperature of the mud and water is 30’ to 38 C, and the pH is about 6.5. These hot springs are good for the treatment of rheumatic, dermatological and gynecological diseases, as well as neurological and physical exhaustion.

Köyceğiz Treatments The Köyceğiz baths do not offer overnight accommodations so visitors stay at small hotels and pensions in nearby Dalyan. The baths can be reached from Dalyan by small boats. The treatment consists of covering the body with a layer of mud and then soaking in the hot mineral water.

At Sultaniye it is possible to find accommodation in village houses for up to 400 persons.

Kütahya Kütahya is in western Anatolia and has been a thermal center for numerous civilizations for more than 5,000 years.

Kutahya is an important city for thermal centers and the only one in the country to have 6 in the same area. The most important of these are Ilıca Harlek and Yoncalı. The thermal center at Yoncali has been in use since A.D. 762. The city of Kutahya is also known for the beauty of its ceramics and tiles.

Capacity The thermal waters at Ilıca Harlek flow at 41 liters second. At Yoncalı. the capacity is 36-51 lit/sec.

Physio-Chemical Characteristics and Indications

Muğla - Köyceğiz- Dalyanköy Scenic Köyceğiz Lake, located near Dalaman International Airport and within a convenient distance of both Fethiye and Marmaris, is well known for its natural hot springs and mud baths.

The lake narrows into a channel, flowing into the Dalyan River which empties into the Mediterranean at one of Turkey’s most spectacular beaches, lztuzu, which is also the breeding ground of the Caretta caretta sea turtle. The reed-lined river meanders toward the sea, overlooked by 4th-century B.C. Lycian rock tombs. Nearby are the ruins of the ancient city of Caunos. On the asphalt road to Velibey is the ancient settlement now at Sultaniye, also a thermal center used for centuries, and site of numerous ruins.

Capacity Situated next to a natural channel between Köyceğiz Lake and the Mediterranean Sea, the Rıza Cavus Thermal Baths form a water pool and a mud pond, with a flow rate of about 8 liters per second. The mud and mineral baths can accommodate 1,000 people per day. At a second spring is Velibey Thermal Baths, 1.5 km north of Riza Çavuş that has similar qualities and a flow rate of 20 liters per second. The waters of Sultaniye are good for both bathing and drinking. They flow at a rate of 42 liters per second, resulting in a bath capacity of 10,000 baths per day.

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The waters of Ilıca. Harlek vary in temperature from 25 to 43 C, and at Yoncalı. from 32-36 C. The waters of Ilıca Harlek and Yoncalı contain magnesium, calcium and bicarbonate. The waters are useful to those suffering from rheumatism, dermatological problems, neurological disorders, gynecological problems, liver disorders, insomnia, and gall bladder and backbone complaints. The waters at Yoncalı are particularly beneficial for gout, lumbago and fractures.

Other hot springs in the Kütahya Province include:

Ilıca Kaplıca Located 13 km from Gediz. The thermal waters flow at 217 lit/sec and are 78-79 C with a pH of 6.5-7.9.

Murat Dag Kaplıca Located 30 km from Gediz. The thermal waters flow at 23 lit/sec and are 31-420C with a pH of 5.3.

Eynal Located 4 Ian from Simav (between Kütahya and Balıkesir). This geyser with a pH of 9.7 emits steam at 163 C.

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Cover Story

Objectives for the year 2023 Health and Thermal Tourism • Each of the ancient Troy, Aphrodisian and Phrygian Settlements shall be evolved into a regional destination with thermal facilites and cultural themes, which shall by capacity be integrated to other alternative tourism types to incorporate cultural and natural heritage of the surround areas.

• Studies will be furthered in carefully planned stages for the best evaluation of all resident resources, taking into account the regions with geothermal springs.

• Construction work carried out within the scopes of original and revised construction plans concerning the thermal tourism centres hitherto announced by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism shall be completed.

• Efforts shall be pursued to make our country as the top ranking destination of the European continent for thermal tourism interests.

• Studies shall be conducted for establishment of local governments’ union and distribution companies at pilot areas identified for the purpose of effectively distributing geothermal spring waters.

• Forthwith upon completion of studies aimed at designation and physical planning of areas that may potentially be declared as Cultural and Tourism Conservation and Development Areas and/or Tourism centres with focus on the quantity and variety of geothermal springs, the areas so designated will shortly be allocated for the exclusive use of investors for tourism purposes.

TOWARDS THE OBJECTIVES • A thermal tourism master plan covering four regions shall be drafted, in the first place. These four regions will include the following South Marmara: Balikesir, Canakkale and Yalova cities, South Aegean Region: Aydin, Denizli, Manisa and Izmir cities.

Phrygian Region: Afyonkarahisar, Ankara, Usak, Eskisehir and Kutahya cities.

Central Anatolia: Aksaray, Kirsehir, Nigde, Nevsehir and Yozgat cities.

Balneotherapie Centres to host thermal tourism operations shall be identified in the above specified regions, followed by efforts concentrated on implementing strategies aimed at developing the infra and superstructures for thermal tourism.

• In order to encourage private sector, public land and thermal spring allocation shall be made.

• Feasibility studies shall be ordered from specialised entities and persons for thermal thermal projects to be initialized by local governments.

• Thermal facilities shall be formed as stand alone compounds in design and incorporate hotel and curing centres annexed to them, all surrounded by green, with built in layout add ons like jogging and

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excursion tracks and entertainment facilities (i.e. water games such as aquatic parks and etc.), based on a perspective to enhance the quality of environment.

• With the exception of tourism centers falling outside the reference frames of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, all hotspring areas shall be drawn into architectural designs by professionals and technical opinion of the Ministry shall be solicited, before the designs are approved. In time of architectural plan applications, geology and hydrogeology surveys shall be carried out by relevant entities and organisations with specialised knowledge on the matter, but, the spring conservation sites will have to be identified, in the first place.

• The second house demands inside and adjacent to the hotspring locations shall be evaluated, once comprehensive studies are performed to affirm their viability.

• Use of thermal spring water at public locations (such as medical bathing centres etc.) will be encouraged, and no use of such waters at individually or mutually owned homes and housing cooperatives will be permitted. This prohibition shall include public areas not specifically authorised for use as lands to host related premises.

• Arrangements shall be made requiring operators to solicit and obtain approval of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism before attempting to make drills on or distribute water from those areas officially proclaimed as Tourism Centres by the Ministry.

• Every measure shall be taken and effort endeavoured to ensure that construction of thermal resort facilities is performed using state of the art technologies and in a dexterous and best workmanlike manner to successfully preserve and reflect the historical architecture and local texture (i.e. architectural designs of Ottoman, Seljuk and Roman times), with the ultimate goal of giving them an international traveller appealing appearance.

• Information on regions known to have hot spring facilities and thermal spring waters will be emphasized in promotion brochures.

• Financial grants obtained for infrastructure works (i.e. land drills, road pavements, potable and domestic water supplies, sewage lines etc.) and environmental layout arrangements will, in the first place, be used for pilot areas.

• thermal tourism shall be taken among the top priority incentive areas, in practice.

• Contacts will be established and maintained with healthcare and social aid organisations located on abroad.

• National and international symposia, seminars and promotional programs shall be held to inform the private sector and general society.

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License No: 1597

News From Arab Market

Algeria Air Algérie started direct flights to Algiers from Vienna Airport: Air Algérie now offers two flights per week from Vienna to the Algerian capital.

services include swift visa on arrival approvals, meet-and-greet services on arrival and departure, assistance and guidance through airport clearance, baggage assistance and handover at the pick-up point, to ensure its customers arrive relaxed with the assurance that they are in safe hands.

Thomas Cook India’s consumer research-analysis having highlighted that with increasing complexities of air travel, Indian travelers seek reassuring care and assistance, especially with airport related services.

With significant growth in non immigrant travelers to the UAE (66.3 million as of Jan 2014 and slated to grow at 9.5%: Reuters), this is a large market. Through its Marhaba services, Thomas Cook India will offer its large and diverse consumers - across families, individual holiday makers, honeymooners, ad hoc groups, corporate and MICE customersanother reason to Travel Smooth!

Djibouti Qatar Airways to fly to Djibouti Qatar Airways is widening its footprint in Africa with the addition of Djibouti, come 27th of July.

The airline will initially fly three times a week between Doha and Djibouti with flights operating every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

This new connection was inaugurated by His Excellency Mohamed Benhocine, the Ambassador of the People’s Democratic of Algeria, Mohamed Salah Boultif, CEO of Air Algérie, and Julian Jäger, member of the Management Board of Flughafen Wien AG. “We are pleased to add a new destination in an important economic area to our portfolio. Algeria is the largest country in North Africa, and this new direct connection by Air Algérie will strengthen Vienna Airport’s role as a gateway to this region,“ added Julian Jäger, member of the Management Board of Flughafen Wien AG. Every week on Wednesday and Saturday, a Boeing 737 from Algiers will arrive in Vienna at 6.35 pm and take off for the return flight at 7.55 pm.

Algiers is the capital city and, as a traffic hub and cultural and economic centre, the largest city in Algeria with nearly 2.2 million residents. The old city Kasbah was designated as a World Cultural Heritage site by the UNESCO in 1992.

Air Algérie was founded in 1947 and offers connections to destinations in Algeria and North Africa as well as many international cities. The latest flight plan includes a total of 46 destinations throughout the world. Air Algérie currently operates a fleet of 43 aircraft.

Egypt Egypt tourist numbers drop by 28%

Bahrain ‘Marhaba’ Meet & Greet, Visa services for Bahrain

According to the statistics released by Egypt’s Ahram newspaper, there has been a 24 per cent drop in European tourists visiting the country in January and February this year, when compared to last year.

According to the report, Egypt has seen a 28 per cent drop in tourists so far this year.

One of the biggest losses was from the Asia and Pacific markets, with 42 per cent less visitors traveled to the country. n 2010, Egypt received 14.7million visitors, which was a record high, but numbers dipped to just 10million in 2011 before climbing again to 11.5million in 2012.

The latest statistics for 2013 are still not available.

Source: FTNnews.com

TC Visa Services, a subsidiary of Thomas Cook (India) Ltd has partnered with premium meet & greet service provider ‘Marhaba’ to ensure a swift, smooth and safe passage for Indian travelers at Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Bahrain airports- on arrival or departure.

In collaboration with Marhaba, part of dnata, one of the world’s largest international air services providers, Thomas Cook India’s ‘Marhaba’

20May 2014

A&T Travel Magazine

Iraq Cristal Hotel Erbil opens

Tens of hotels are mushrooming around the city center in Erbil, turning this great historical city into a real tourism and business hub for the years to come. Major international hotels are and will be opening their doors soon in Erbil, coloring the accommodation scene and contributing highly to the tourism sector.

Cristal Hotel Erbil will be opening its doors soon in Erbil, with 100 stupendous luxurious rooms and suites all modernly decorated and furnished. Cristal Erbil Hotel will be one of the few hotels to present boutique-style customized service for its clients with an international touch of quality, luxury and refined atmosphere.

For more information, employment opportunities and other details, please check Cristal Hospitality website: www.cristalhospitality.com

have had for a long time. It provides a successful business model that reflects the tireless efforts to meet the customers’ satisfaction.

Thomas also stressed his company’s commitment to support all sectors that contribute to improving the national economy by providing them with the best services and offers that meet their needs and make it easier to communicate with each other, on the one hand, and with their customers and partners, on the other hand, taking advantage of the telecommunication sector technology and its potentials.

Hadidi said that the constant renewal of RJ partnership with Orange Jordan emphasizes the strength of the relations of cooperation between the two sides and reflects the satisfaction of RJ and its staff with the level of services provided by Orange in all aspects of telecommunication services.

He added that this service is significant for an advanced international airline like Royal Jordanian that relies mainly on various forms of computing and communications technologies. Hadidi expressed satisfaction with continuing working with Orange Jordan over the next two years.

Orange Jordan provides customized services to small, medium and large enterprises in order to meet the requirements and needs of each.

Kuwait Jazeera Airways increased on the Kuwait-Jeddah route

Jordan Royal Jordanian signs partnership agreement with Orange Jordan

Royal Jordanian and Orange Jordan signed an agreement to renew their partnership, which includes offering RJ inclusive telecommunication services for two years.

The agreement was signed by Orange Jordan CEO Jean-Francois Thomas and Royal Jordanian President /CEO Amer Hadidi.

Under the agreement, Orange Jordan will offer RJ a comprehensive range of services, including voice calls with Orange mobile and fixedline subscribers, and with other networks as well, in addition to short messages, email and international roaming services.

The agreement also includes providing Internet services, content and added value. This all comes within offers, packages and a variety of bundles to meet different needs of the airline, thus contributing to serving its business, and facilitating its employees’ communication at work, with families and friends.

Thomas expressed delight in renewing the partnership with Royal Jordanian, one of the big companies working in Jordan with which Orange has partnership agreements. He said that renewing the agreement shows the solid relationship Orange and Royal Jordanian

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Jazeera Airways saw a 69% increase in flown passengers on the KuwaitJeddah route in November, compared to the same month last year. The airline grabbed a 13% market share on the route in November 2013.

Flown passengers on the Kuwait-Al Najaf route increased by 83% from November last year. Jazeera Airways was the first airline in Kuwait and Iraq to launch flights between the two countries in April 2012 with flights between Kuwait and the holy city of Al Najaf. The airline continues to lead on this route with a 66% market share this month.

On the Kuwait-Mashhad route, Jazeera Airways saw a 24% increase in flown passengers from November last year. The airline grabbed the leading market share of 27% on the route during the month this year.

The report also shows that Jazeera Airways was the leading airline serving the Kuwait-Amman route in the month of November with a 42% market share. The airline’s flown passengers increased by 10% from November 2012.

The report also shows that Jazeera Airways grabbed a 37% on the Kuwait-Beirut route, a 13% market share on the Kuwait-Dubai route, a 9% market share on the Kuwait-Bahrain route and 11% market share on the Kuwait-Riyadh route.

On routes serving Egyptian cities, Jazeera Airways grabbed a 23% market share on the Kuwait-Cairo route, a 67% market share on the Kuwait-Luxor route, a 48% market share on the Kuwait-Assiut route, a 36% market share on the Kuwait-Sohag route, and a 16% market share on the Kuwait-Alexandria route.

Flights to the seasonal destinations of Istanbul and Sharm El Sheikh ended in the first week of November and will resume end of March.

May 201421

News From Arab Market

Morocco Moroccan NTO launches the third edition of MEET Morocco 2014 The Moroccan National Tourist Office announced the launch of the 2014 edition of MEET Morocco.

This 92-page, high-quality publication highlights Morocco’s suitability as a destination for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions, with features on the kingdom’s principal regions, the main visitor activities, new infrastructure and hospitality developments, meetings facilities and a comprehensive list of hotels.

MEET Morocco is produced in collaboration with Nicholas Publishing International, a Dubai-based publishing company that specialises in the meetings sector, including the bi-monthly MEETme, a professional planners’ and suppliers’ reference tool for up-to-date news, case studies, in-depth features, industry insight and country reports on the Middle East’s meeting industry.

MEET Morocco, officially launched at EIBTM in Barcelona on November 20th, is a valuable tool for meetings and event planners, offering comprehensive information about meetings, conferences and incentives facilities in the country.

MNTO and NPI will be distributing 8,000 printed copies and 2,000 CDs of the MEET Morocco guide at major international travel trade shows and mailed to specialist databases of meeting planners, corporate travel and events buyers in the United Kingdom, Germany, Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland and the Gulf region. The publication can also be accessed online at www.visitmorocco.com and www.meetmiddleeast.com Features in MEET Morocco 2014 include: Morocco and Vision 2020 – New developments – Meetings overview – Agadir – Casablanca – ElJadida – Essaouira – Fez & Meknes – Marrakech – Rabat – Tangiers – Golf – Atlas Mountains – Eco Tourism – Spas and wellness – Hotel overview and factsheets – Alternative meetings venues – Shopping – Dining & Nightlife – Getting around.

Oman Oman’s largest free-standing hotel, Salalah Rotana Resort Opened

The five-star Salalah Rotana Resort officially opened on the 18th March 2014 in the capital of the southern Omani province of Dhofar.

The stunning 400 room waterfront resort, part of the company’s steadily expanding Rotana, is the Sultante’s largest free-standing hotel in Oman.

“We pride ourselves in identifying desirable travel destinations and are excited to begin a new journey today at the first hotel to be operated

by Rotana in Oman. Not only does it take us one step closer to reaching our ultimate vision but it has strengthened the company’s standing as the leading hotel management company in the region,” stated Omer Kaddouri, President & CEO of Rotana.

Salalah Rotana Resort sits at one with Mother Nature, and has been designed to offer guests a distinctive sense of calm. Drawing inspiration from the landscape’s natural beauty and culture, the heart of the hotel boasts high ceilings and a central internally-lit handmade red clay dome complementing the wooden finishing and decorative mashrabiya latticework windows. The in-room furnishings have been carved from desert rock while Arabesque geometric designs and stone archways, constructed using traditional techniques, resemble a cathedral atrium.

Ranging from 43 sq meters to 143 sq meters, Salalah Rotana Resort boasts some of the most spacious accommodations in Oman. Private terraces or balconies, ensuite bathrooms and generous living areas in each room and suite allows for optimal privacy and superior comfort in a grand setting. The perfect destination for every type of traveller, the resort’s wide variety of dining options range from casual beachside cuisine and all-day-dining to fine dining Middle Eastern and Western fare.

Guests looking to rejuvenate and rebalance the body can make use of the Bodylines leisure and fitness club and impressive outdoor pool or indulge in spa treatments at Zen the spa, Rotana’s home-grown spa concept derived from ancient holistic Asian philosophies, which includes eight single-sex only treatment room and blends natural Omani elements with holistic treatments and rituals including full body massages, facials and soothing wraps.

Business visitors will benefit from a superb range of meeting rooms and state of the art Business Centre in addition to an array of business and leisure facilities.

Qatar Qatar Airways Introduces Innovative Mobile Technology for Pilots atar Airways has begun the rollout of QLOUD, an internally developed mobility application for iPads, which will provide real time and decisionrelevant information to the airline’s pilots.

Over 500 pilots have already embraced the new technology with 500 more set to begin using QLOUD over the next few weeks. All 2,500 Qatar Airways pilots are expected to be using the QLOUD system by September this year.

Qatar Airways has been innovatively using mobility technology in its various business functions for over three years, ensuring that its workforce, whether on the ground or in air, are able to retrieve decision-

22May 2014

A&T Travel Magazine

Wahda, which is the largest hotel in the capital with 844 rooms and serviced apartments, made a signification contribution to the overall regional figures, with a 7.6 percentage points increase in occupancy levels and 30.8% increase in Gross Operating Profit in 2013.

The financial results from the UAE capital will be further boosted by the opening of what will be the group’s flagship hotel – the 667 bedroom Bab Al Qasr, located on the Abu Dhabi Corniche, which is set to come on stream in Q1 2015.

Sudan relevant information in real time, and in turn improve operational efficiency and enhance customer service.

QLOUD allows pilots to check-in for duty and retrieve important pre-flight information, such as their schedules, flight plans, maps, weather information, details of the crew they are flying with, hotel and destination information and dispatch briefs. This information is accessed at a time and place of their convenience ahead of the flight departure.

Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer, His Excellency, Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “We are continually investing in mobile technology as a means to provide our workforce with real-time information, when required.

Qatar Airways has always been, and continues to be, at the forefront of implementing technology for the purposes of increasing workforce productivity and efficiency, as well as enhancing customer service. We have already rolled out an internally developed iPad-based mobility application called QRUISE for our cabin crew which has been extremely successful.”

Saudi Arabia Millennium to open 20 hotels in Saudi Arabia

Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife Conservation created in South

The president of South Sudan ordered the creation of new ministries for the nation, including for tourism as well as for disasters. Six more ministries have been created by the president including a wildlife conservation and tourism portfolio, a trade, commerce and investment ministry, as well as a ministry for disaster management and humanitarian affairs. No ministerial appointments have been made as of yet.

South Sudan has several national parks, the world’s largest wetland known as the Sudd and the White Nile, also known locally as Bahr el Jebel, running through the entire country from the border with Uganda to the border with the Republic of the Sudan.

Tunisia UK visitor figures to Tunisia up

Millennium and Copthorne Middle East and Africa (MEA) will open 20 new hotels in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which is part of a wider plan to operate 50 properties throughout the region by 2017.

The hotel group will open hotels in Riyadh, Jeddah, Medina and Makkah, as well as important second tier cities such as Hayel, Jizan, Tabouk and Baha. In total it will have over 7,000 rooms in the Kingdom which will make it top priority for the company.

Currently Millennium and Copthorne Hotels & Resorts operates 17 hotels, with approximately 5,000 rooms across the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Jordan, Qatar, Oman and Iraq, with an ambitious expansion plan.

In addition to the Saudi hotels, over the next 12-18 months new properties are planned to open across the region in UAE, Kuwait and Oman. This is in line with the group’s business plan to operate 50 properties throughout the Middle East and Africa by 2017.

The announcement which was made today in Abu Dhabi at the Gulf Incentive Business Travel Meetings (GIBTM) exhibition.

In Dubai, Millennium Hotels & Resorts benefited from the continuous upward trend in visitor arrivals and added 225 rooms to its inventory at Millennium Airport Hotel and 198 rooms to the Millennium Plaza Hotel.

As a result, Total Revenue jumped by 12% for the Dubai hotels and Gross Operating Profit by 30.3%.

The group’s three hotels in Abu Dhabi, including Grand Millennium Al

A&T Travel Magazine

Tunisia enjoyed a bumper summer season, welcoming 287,541 Brits between January-August 2013, a boost of 29.4 per cent on the same period last year and up 22.5 per cent on 2010’s record breaking tourism figures.

55,329 Brits spent their summer holiday in Tunisia, an increase of 26.5 per cent on 2012’s figures and topping the record-breaking 2010 visitor figures by 22 per cent.

“Tunisia has long been a popular destination with UK holidaymakers and these record-breaking figures are testament to our diverse and strong tourism offering. With over 3,000 years of culture, stunning natural landscapes, over 45 lavish thalassotherapy centres, and a range of boutique Dars and family-friendly seaside resorts, we are confident that 2013 will be our best year to date,” says Wahida Jaiet, UK & Ireland Director for the Tunisian National Tourist Office.

“Summer may be over, but Tunisia still has plenty to offer holidaymakers looking to combine a fascinating cultural break with indulgent thalasso spa treatments this autumn. With cooler days in the coming months, visitors can enjoy a pleasant day on our prestigious golf courses or take in the impressive salt lakes of Chott el-Jerid, desert festivals and movie set locations of southern Tunisia, for a thrilling alternative to the traditional sun, sea and sand holiday,” continues Jaiet.

With an average temperature of 25°C in October and at only two and half hours flight away from the UK, Tunisia is a great destination for some early winter sun.

May 201423

News From Arab Market Izmir has got its new domestic terminal

Turkey Turkey Extends e-visa deadline Travelers visiting Turkey will no longer have to apply for an electronic visa before they travel after authorities agreed to postpone the introduction of the new system until the end of the year.

Electronic visas were due to be exclusively in place by April 10 which means the practice of obtaining visas upon arrival to points of entry to Turkey will come to an end. However, Turkish Touristic Hotels & Investors Association (TUROB) informed that the due date is extended until December 31, 2014 so that visitors who need a visa to enter to Turkey can get it at Turkish borders. Travelers can also obtain an e-Visa online on www.evisa.gov.tr.

Visitors can simply fill in their details, make payment and download their e-Visas prior to their travels up to 24 hours before travel. Visitors who apply e-Visa will get US$10 discount and can also print their e-Visa either using their own printers or at two airports of Istanbul; Istanbul Atatürk Airport and Sabiha Gökçen Airport. Visitors arriving in Turkey without an e-Visa will also be able to obtain them via interactive kiosks located at those two airports.

Adnan Menderes Airport new domestic terminal is inaugurated.

Constructed by TAV Group, one of the world’s leader corporations in the airport projects and operations sector, Adnan Menderes Airport new domestic terminal is inaugurated. The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Minister of Transportation, Maritime Affairs and Communications Lütfi Elvan, State Airports Authority Orhan Birdal, TAV Airports Board Chairman Hamdi Akın and TAV Airports CEO and President Sani Şener as well as many congressmen, bureaucrats and politicians.

Istanbul is Travelers Top Destination in the World Istanbul ranked number 1 destination at the TripAdvisor 2014 Travellers’ Choice awards for Destinations in the World and in Europe.

Travellers’ Choice Destinations honour top travel spots worldwide based on the millions of reviews and opinions from TripAdvisor travellers. Award winners were determined using an algorithm that took into account the quantity and quality of reviews and ratings for hotels, attractions and restaurants in destinations worldwide, gathered over a 12-month period.

These awards honour nearly 500 destinations including the winners for the top spots in the world, and individual lists for Africa, Asia, Australia, Canada, the Caribbean, Central America, Europe, China, Middle East, Russia, South America, the South Pacific, the U.K. and the U.S. The 2014 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Destinations winners World’s top 10

Europe’s top 10

UK’s top 10

1.

Istanbul

1.

Istanbul

1.

London

2.

Rome

2.

Rome

2.

Edinburgh

3.

London

3.

London

3.

Torquay

4.

Beijing

4.

Prague

4.

Liverpool

5.

Prague

5.

Paris

5.

Belfast

6.

Marrakech

6.

Berlin

6.

York

7.

Paris

7.

Florence

7.

Bristol

8.

Hanoi

8.

Barcelona

8.

Llandudno

9.

Siem Reap

9.

St Petersburg

9.

Leeds

10. Shanghai

10. Budapest

10. Birmingham

Number of Istanbul tourist arrivals for the first Quarter of 2014 The Istanbul Culture and Tourism Directorate announced that the number of tourist arrivals to Istanbul is increased in March 2014 as well as in the first quarter of 2014 compare to last year.

A total of 866.985 tourists visited Istanbul in March 2014; an increase of 3.4% compare to March 2013. 838.201 tourists visited Istanbul in March 2013.

1.987.492 tourists have arrived Istanbul in the first 3 months of 2013 that the total number for 2014 passed 2 million and counted 2.198.322; an increase of 10.6%.

During the first 3 months of 2014, top nations and their percentages are as follows: Germany:%9.1, Russia:%6.1, Iran:%5.2, UK:%3.9, France:%3.7, USA: 3.6%, Italy:%3.3, Libya:%3.1, Ukraine:%2.9, The Netherlands:%2.6, South Korea:%2.5, Saudi Arabia:%2.5, Azerbaijan:%2.4, Iraq:%2.3, Syria:%2.0, Other countries: 44,9.

A total of 199.021 Germans, 134.940 Russians, and 115.341 Iranian tourists visited Istanbul in the first quarter.

24May 2014

Having submitted the best offer at the tender initiated by DHMI on November 17th, 2011, TAV affiliated company TAV Ege won the operating rights of the domestic terminal until 2032 for 610 million Euros + VAT. The foundations of the new terminal were laid on June 15th, 2012. During this transition period, domestic flights were launched at international terminal, which is also operated by TAV. TAV gained the operating rights of international terminal in 2007.

Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport provided services to almost 10.2 million passengers in 2013, by an increase of 9 per cent compared to the previous year. 2.5 million of these passengers used international flights and 7.7 of them used domestic flights.

Constructed by TAV Construction, the new domestic terminal will have an indoor area of approximately 200,000 square meters. The project involves a 2537 vehicle capacity closed car park and a 3 thousand vehicle capacity open car park.

Main features of the terminal are: • 64 check-in counters • 40 elevators • 30 escalators and 666 meters of travelators • 5 thousand luggage capacity per hour • A total of 291,267 square meter construction area

U.A.E. Spotlight on Luxury at ATM Premium travel and hospitality will be the focus of a new theme at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2014 with the launch of ‘Spotlight on Luxury’. The up-scale focus will bring together luxury brand exhibitors, targeted luxury buyers and visitors along with a number of special seminar sessions exploring the high value market segment for both inbound and outbound travelers. Research released by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) put luxury goods and services spending by the world’s super rich at US$1.8 trillion in 2013, with US$1 trillion spent on services and US$460 billion allocated to one-of-a-kind travel adventures. Senior partner Antonella Mei-Pochtler noted a shift in consumer trends for luxury, from ‘owning’ (a luxury product) more towards ‘experiencing’ (a luxury product). The region’s penchant for a luxury lifestyle is well documented, and supported by some of the highest per capita wealth in the world. According to a 2012 Credit Suisse report, the number of millionaires in the UAE is set to grow by 12% by 2017, reaching 48,000 individuals. GCC nationals also spend 260% more on airfares against other nationalities, with between 40-60% booking business class travel, and also spending 430% more on accommodation and 558% more on dining. “If you look at the region there can be few places on earth that have such a concentration of luxury five-star hotels complemented by a lifestyle to match, from super yachts and multimillion-dollar homes to dining opportunities courtesy of some of the world’s best chefs and private jet travel. The luxury theme clearly resonates with ATM participants and so we have a dedicated platform for discussion and brand showcasing this year,” said Mark Walsh, Portfolio Director, Reed Travel Exhibitions, organiser of ATM.

A&T Travel Magazine

News From Arab Market Arab-Turkish joint venture to buy luxury hotel in Greece Jermyn Street Real Estate Fund, which includes investors from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Turkey’s Doğuş group, submitted the highest of three bids to buy a luxury seaside hotel in Athens, Greece.

According to the Greek privatization agency HRADF, the joint venture spends 400 million euros ($550 million). The sale of the Astir Palace is part of debt-laden Greece’s privatization plan to pay down debt and clean up the balance sheets of its bailed-out banks. National Bank, Greece’s biggest lender, will get 300 million euros of the purchase price with the remaining 100 million going to the government. Turkey’s Doğuş Group also interested in buying four marinas in Grece that the Greek government is selling as part of a nationwide sale. Doğuş earlier in 2013 expanded business to the Adriatic and has purchased a 7 percent stake in Adriatic Croatia International, the largest marina chain in the Adriatic Sea.

46 Hotel Industry Professionals Explored Sharjah The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority continues to develop the skills and professional excellence of tourism industry professionals, arming them with the latest information about new projects and landmarks of the emirate by way of an orientation program titled ‘Sharjah My Destination.’ Forty six employees representing a number of leading hotels and agencies in the Emirate took part in the two-day program, the first of its kind this year, that included presentations by industry experts and visits and field trips to Sharjah’s numerous museums, art and cultural centres and tourist attractions.

The 2-day orientation program began with a tour of Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization followed by a walking tour of the Heart of Sharjah and Heritage and Arts Area, all known for their rich history.

Next on the itinerary were the legendary Central Souk, a prominent tourist

destination, Al Noor Mosque, the architectural marvel, and Al Qasba and Al Majaz Waterfront, both prominent leisure destinations, and the latest to join the attractions, Al Montazah Park, which was recently inaugurated.

The first water themed amusement park in the Emirate, Al Montazah, is spread over an area of over 126,000 square meters on Khalid Lagoon and includes the latest attractions and amenities in leisure and amusement.

The guests also visited a number of museums, including Al Mahatta Aircraft Museum chronicling the history of aviation in the emirate including its first airport in 1932, and Sharjah Aquarium and Maritime Museum.

Abu Dhabi property prices in Q1 2014 The changing patterns of supply and demand led to a mixed performance for specific pockets of the Abu Dhabi real estate market in Q1 2014.

According to Asteco Q1 2014 real estate report, average apartment sales prices increased by 9%, 2% less than the previous quarter. Average villa sales, climbed 6% during Q1 2014, 3% higher than the previous quarter.

Meanwhile residential rental rates softened further in Q1 2014, especially at the lower end of the Abu Dhabi Island quality scale, with little or no increase in some areas, while high-end properties in investment areas recorded modest increases of between 1-3%, the Asteco report says.

In terms of sales prices, there was robust demand for apartments at Al Raha Beach due to limited availability, with rates now between AED 1,000 and AED 1,550 per square foot. The Gate Towers at Shams Abu Dhabi have also benefited from increases following their recent handover, which saw prices increase by 19% to AED 1,400 per square foot on average.

Low to mid-end developments, such as Reef Downtown, continued to record price increases above market averages, as buyers searched for more affordable options. Prices at Reef Downtown started from AED 900 per square foot, representing a 21% increase from the Q4 2013.

In Brief Andre Borg

Çiler Kibar

l

Ruhi Çuhadaroğlu has been appointed as Şarm El Seyh Desolle Royal Rojana Resort as general manager.

l

Hilton Istanbul has announced the appointment of Andre Borg as the new Hotel Manager.

l

Divan Hotels of Turkey appointed Çiler Kibar Moravalı as sales Ddrector.

l

Özlem Gökşin has been appointed as sales & marketing manager Hyatt Hotels south eastern Europe.

l

Okan Dinç is the new general manager of Özkaymak Hotels & Resort, Antalya.

l

Bahri Şahin has been appointed Istanbul Park Bosphorus Hotel as general manager.

l

Yeşim Simla Resmor has been appointed Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines Turkey Group Sales Coordinator.

l

Istanbul Vialand Palace Hotel appointed Sedat Meşe as the director of the property.

l

Arzu Karacadağ has been promoted to Corporate Communications and Brand Director at Dedeman Hotels & Resorts International.

l

Murat Durmuş, is the new sales & marketing manager of Concorde De Luxe Resort, Antalya.

l

Tolga Akıncı has been appointed as Assistant General Manager of Istanbul Park Bosphorus Hotel.

l

Ayşe Nur Teker is the new Manager as Hotels & Hospitality at Jones Lang LaSalle Turkey.

l

Aml İbrahim has a new job at Falcon Travel as Turkey sales manager.

l

Murat Kodan has been appointed as general manager of Sochi Rixos Krasnaya.

l

Didem Kurtuluş is the new sales manager of Radisson Blu Conference & Airport Hotel in Istanbul.

l

Adnan Yücel has been appointed as general manager of Wanda Hotels & Resorts in China.

l

Erhan Kösemihal has been appointed as general manager of Listana Otel Şişli-Istanbul.

l

Daniele Fabbri, has been appointed as general manager of Conrad Istanbul Hotel.

l

Şule Altıntaş has been appointed as sales and marketing director of Crowne Plaza Istanbul Oryapark.

l

Ziya Altınay has been appointed as Crowne Plaza Istanbul.

l

Hacer Arslan is the ass.sales manager of The Grand Tarabya Istanbul Hotel.

l

Berkan Kepeci has been appointed as sales manager for Antalya, Belek Regnum Carya Golf & SPA Resort.

l

Ceyda Noyan has been appointed as sales director of The St. Regis Istanbul Hotel which will be open 2014.

l

Fikret Odabaş has been appointed as general manager of Yalova Lova Hotel & Spa.

l

Zeynep Tosun has been appointed as sales and marketing director of Park Bosphorus Istanbul Hotel.

l

Ahmet Arıkan is the new general manager of Baku Staybridge Suites hotel.

Bahri Şahin

Arzu Karacadağ

Murat Durmuş

Aml İbrahim

Adnan Yücel

Daniele Fabbri

Hacer Arslan

Berkan Kepeci

Zeynep Tosun

26May 2014

Ruhi Çuhadaroğlu

Okan Dinç

Yeşim Simla Resmor

Sedat Meşe

Tolga Akıncı

Murat Kodan

Didem Kurtuluş

Şule Altıntaş

Fikret Odabaş

Ceyda Noyan

Ziya Altınay

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leave the rest to us leave the rest to us • • •• •• •• • •

108 rooms, 2 suites and 207 beds deva spa colorrooms, restaurant 108 2 suites and 207 beds terrace cafe & bar deva spa 5 meeting rooms which 4 of them gets sunlight color restaurant terrace cafe & bar 5 meeting rooms which 4 of them gets sunlight

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Exhibition

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2013, the region’s leading travel industry showcase, is held 6 – 9 May 2013 in Dubai, UAE with over 2,500 exhibitors from 87 countries. “Turkey has been exhibiting at ATM for 15 years now and this year we’re returning with an insatiable commitment to deliver beyond what is expected from the current trends; and as always, we are

28May 2014

ATM 2013

excited and certain to reap an entirely new wave of benefits from joining the fair.” Sedat Gonulluoglu, Turkish Cultural and Information Attaché commented.

Tourism to Turkey from GCC region has been experiencing phenomenal growth. According to official statistics of Ministry of Culture and Tourism in 2012 compared to 2011 number of tourists from UAE increased by 35.11%, from Bahrain by 38.37%, from Kuwait by 56.59% and from Qatar by 82.37%. And in February 2013

alone compared to same period in 2012 number of tourists from UAE increased by 65.71%, from Bahrain by 134.24%, from Kuwait by 89.82% and Qatar by 110.34%.

“These numbers just contain the citizens of those countries. As you know there are too many expats who work in the region and they also travel to Turkey a lot.” Said Sedat Gonulluoglu. “In 2013 we are expecting 65% increase from GCC” Sedat Gonulluoglu added.

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May 2014ď ź29

Focus On TURKEY NEWS

NewFocus

November & December’2011

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