MeeTurkey September 2017

September 2017 Year: 23 No:87

y e k r u T n i e p e T i l Göbek The World’s Oldest Temple

IMEX Frankfurt 2017 MeeTurkey @ IMFT The 15th Istanbul Biennial starts The 24th Istanbul Jazz Festival Istanbul to host UEFA Super Cup in 2019 MTF 2017 Luang Prabang

FROM THE EDITOR

September’2017 Year:23 No:87

Archaeological tourism Archaeological tourism is a form of cultural tourism, which aims to promote public interest in archaeology and the conservation of historical sites.

Archaeological sites and historic places are major tourist attractions worldwide. The number of people that visit archaeological sites rises every year. As the popularity and number of visits to archaeological sites increase, they become more valuable sources of tourism revenue. However, the increase in traffic can result in damage to sites. Therefore, sustainable archaeological tourism is very important for the industry.

In MeeTurkey’s May 2012 issue, we have covered Göbekli Tepe. Now in September 2017 issue, we present you Göbekli Tepe again; this time we share with you the new discoveries.

Being the oldest temple of the world, we still don’t know how the 40 to 60 tons of monuments built by the hunting/ gathering society. And this year’s new findings of skull modification are an important development for the history.

Özgür Töre

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IN THIS ISSUE 6

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Contents

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Newsline Turkey ������������������������������������������������������������6 Inbrief ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� 12 Meet at Exhibition ����������������������������������������������������� 14 Meet at Biennial ��������������������������������������������������������� 16 Meet at MICE fam ������������������������������������������������������ 18 Meet at Festival ���������������������������������������������������������� 22 Fame & Game �������������������������������������������������������������� 24 Meet at Forum ������������������������������������������������������������ 26 Newsline World ���������������������������������������������������������� 28 Cover Story ������������������������������������������������������������������ 36 Destinations ���������������������������������������������������������������� 44 DMCompanies ������������������������������������������������������������ 49 Advertisement Index

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WOW Istanbul ������������������������������Inside Front Cover Radisson Blu Hotel Kayseri ����������������������������������������3 The President Hotel �����������������������������������������������������7 kmice ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������9 Orion-tour �������������������������������������������������������������������� 13 Emitt ������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 17 Mandarin Hotel ���������������������������������������������������������� 23 ftnNEWS & RusTourismNews ��������������������������������� 31 Cambodian Travel Mart ������������������������������������������� 35 Akut �������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 43 IT&CMasia ��������������������������������������������������������������������� 45 Istanbul Modern �������������������������������������������������������� 51 S&M Publication ���������������������������������������� Back Cover September 2017 | MeeTurkey | 5

NEWSLINE TURKEY Applications open for Travel Turkey 2017 Hosted Buyer Programme Turkey's Aegean city of Izmir will host will Travel Turkey 2017 at ‘fuarizmir' between 7 and 10 December 2017. The travel exhibition organized by TÜRSAB Association of Turkish Travel Agencies and İZFAŞ, under the patronage of Republic of Turkey, Ministry of Culture & Tourism announced its hosted buyer programme.

Travel Turkey İzmir runs a Hosted Buyer Programme in partnership with Republic of Turkey Ministry of Economy and Turkish Airlines to invite and host seniorlevel travel industry buyers to develop new business with the exhibitors, build network and discover the Turkish tourism market. The programme includes buyers setting pre-appointments with exhibitors to lead to successful business deals while their travel expenses are compensated by the organizers.

In 2016, 179 international buyers from 52 countries were hosted along with 518 national buyers resulting in a total of 7.160 B2B meetings held in a 1.200sqm VIP Lounge. The hosted buyers also attended a post-show tour where they visited Denizli, Pamukkale, Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary in order to discover the region’s tourism destinations.

To apply for the Hosted Buyer Programme, you need to submit your registration online. All registrations will be reviewed by the Hosted Buyer Selection Committee and successful applicants will be notified latest by October 20, 2017. Only one buyer will be hosted per company.

Please submit your registration not later than September 30, 2017.

The 4th Annual Turkish American Youth Congress to be held end of October The Turkish Coalition of America (TCA) is accepting applications for the 4th Annual Turkish American Youth Leadership Congress. Held every year in Washington, DC, this year’s Youth Congress will be held October 26-29, 2017.

The Youth Leadership Congress is open to undergraduate/graduate students and recent graduates of Turkish American heritage who wish to become active in American civic and political life, contribute to U.S.-Turkey relations and the Turkish American community, and who are committed to advancing the TCA mission.

TCA will select up to 25 young Turkish Americans to participate in this exclusive, all-expenses-paid forum. Participants will have the opportunity to: • Expand their knowledge of U.S.-Turkey relations and the political systems of both countries • Meet members of Congress, diplomats and policy experts • Increase their awareness of Turkish historical heritage in the United States and issues of importance to Turkish Americans • Learn about effective advocacy in the American political system • Develop leadership skills • Become more active members of the Turkish American community • Establish networks with peers from across the United States The Youth Congress will include discussions with U.S. congressional staff, American and Turkish diplomats and scholars, and representatives of Turkish American community organizations. There will also be several opportunities to network with leaders in U.S.-Turkish relations and with other young Turkish Americans.

Finally, the program will feature events highlighting the cultural and national landmarks of Washington, DC. TCA will provide assistance for transportation and/or lodging to individuals selected to attend the Congress.

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NEWSLINE TURKEY Istanbul to host the 5th OIC Halal Expo Previously organized in Sharjah, UAE, The Islamic Centre for Development of Trade (ICDT) and the Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries will organize the 5th OIC Halal Expo in Istanbul under the auspices of the President of the Republic of Turkey Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The 3rd Helal Expo 2017 will be merged with the 5th OIC Halal Expo. The event will be held simultaneously with World Halal Summit Istanbul in which conferences to be attended by high level speakers.

Speakers will give speeches in the fields of Halal Food, Islamic Finance, Islamic Tourism, Islamic Textile, Halal Medicine, halal chemistry, and pharmacy.

Halal Expo Fair which is the only platform for Halal certified products in Turkey, taking into consideration the commercial expectations of the participating companies actively conducts marketing and promotional activities in Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, the Far East and the USA. It is expected that more than 200 companies and brands will participate from various countries and many related sectors.

The international demand for halal products has witnessed rapid growth after reaching a value of more than $2.3 trillion in 2015, according to Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) reports. The food and beverage industry has the largest share of this industry, dominating with 67 per cent of total trade in halal products with a value of $1.4 trillion. This number is expected to rise to around $1.6 trillion at the beginning of 2020.

An estimated 121 million Muslims traveled internationally in 2016, up from 117 million in 2015, representing 10 percent of the entire travel economy. This is expected to grow to 156 million travelers in 2020, spending over US$220 billion. Meanwhile, Turkey is world’s 4th best Muslim travel destination in 2017 according to the most comprehensive research released on the global Muslim travel market by the Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2017.

The 5th OIC Halal Expo will be held between 23 and 25 November 2017 at the Lütfi Kirdar International Convention and Exhibition Center.

Antalya tourist arrivals in 2017 surpassed last year’s figure in 8 months The total number of foreign tourists visiting Antalya is recorded as 7.2 million in the first 8 months of 2017; surpassing the figure of the whole 2016 since a total of 6.4 million visited Antalya in 2016.

In August, nearly 1.8 million tourists visited Antalya, with a 75 percent year-on-year increase.

Despite decline from European markets, thanks to the normalization in bilateral ties between Turkey and Russia, the number of arrivals from Russia to Antalya has seen a sharp rise; a total of 2,659,877 Russians visited the resort city in the January-August period.

This was a record increase of 2536 percent year-onyear. Antalya welcomed 100,902 Russian tourists in the same period last year. Russia again became the top source market for Antalya’s tourism by taking a 33 percent share in total.

Germany was the second largest market for Antalya’s tourism sector, though the number of arrivals from Germany continued to decline. In the first eight months of the year, 1,083,823 Germans visited Antalya with the loss of 236,000 German tourists compared to the same period of 2016. Germany took a 15.5 percent share in total foreign arrivals into Antalya in the mentioned period.

Ukraine was the third top market for Antalya. Some 545,278 Ukrainians visited Antalya in the first eight months of the year with a 26 percent year-on-year increase. The share of Ukrainians in the total was 7.8 percent.

The United Kingdom was the fourth top market for Antalya, with 251,714 Brits visiting the resort.

The number of arrivals in the province from many key European markets continued to decline, including the Netherlands, Scandinavian countries, Austria and Switzerland, data showed.

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NEWSLINE TURKEY Izmir tourism surpassed last year’s tourist arrival numbers in 2017 Aegean Touristic Hotels and Investors Associations – ETIK has published a special report which reveals that Turkey’s Aegean city of Izmir has recorded 6.5% increase in tourist arrivals and surpassed last year’s figure.

Izmir has welcomed a total of 385,410 foreign tourists in the first 7 months of 2017; an increase of 6.5% compare to same period last year. Traveler traffic to the city has recorded great increase except from UK, the Netherlands, Greece, Switzerland and Scandinavian markets. During the 7 months period, the highest growth is achieved from Russian, Ukrainian, CIS, and Iranian markets.

There is still stagnation in Cruise market. Cruise tourist arrivals at the Alsancak port increased from 1052 to 4122 cruise travelers. Arrivals from Adnan Menderes Airport have increased 6.5%.

Vice President of TUROFED (Turkey Hoteliers Federation) and ETIK President Mehmet Işler commented that Izmir’s tourist arrivals figure surpassed 2016 crisis levels. Izmir’s 2017 target is to reach tourist arrivals figure in 2015 and keep stability in tourism growth.

New Turkish Tourism Minister and country’s tourism target The new Minister of Culture and Tourism of Turkey, Professor Dr. Numan Kurtulmuş announced his strategic vision how to increase travel and tourism as well as country’s tourism targets in terms or number of arrivals and its contribution to economy.

As Turkey’s tourism begins to recover in 2017, Mr. Kurtulmuş has set a target of 50 million international visitors to Turkey by 2023. While that goal is expected to generate $50 billion in economic impact, Mr. Kurtulmuş said the most valuable result of increasing tourism is forming the foundation for a stronger global community through the better sharing of ideas and values between cultures.

“Few countries have as wide a variety of tourism and cultural attractions as Turkey, including – and, perhaps most importantly – it’s figurative and physical position as a bridge between East and West that embraces visitors from across the globe,” Mr. Kurtulmuş said. “We see this strength as vital to our vision for bringing communities together, and we will invest heavily in public and private partnerships to ensure we are developing these tourism products to diversify our markets and audiences.” Turkey has already made progress towards its goals this year, with tourism to the country up.

14.05 percent during the first 6 months of 2017, and up by 36.53 percent in June this year compared to June 2016.

Over the last 3 years the Ministry has seen the potential of social and digital media channels and has been working on social and digital media marketing campaigns with the likes of Google, Facebook, Twitter and most recently Lonely Planet and Matador Network on a collaborative campaigns via the www.hometurkey.com. Turkey is now the second most popular destination on social media with just over 6 million followers globally.

“Turkey is one of the most diverse destinations in the world, with a richness of history, archeology, gastronomy and geography from the Mediterranean to the Black Sea, combined with art and culture that spans the ages yet is at the forefront modern innovation,” Mr. Kurtulmuş said.

“I invite travelers from all over the world to discover the beauty of our country, whether the new UNESCO World Heritage site in Aphrodisias or its mesmerizing Turquoise coast. With so many varied characteristics, combined with Turkey’s history of hospitality from millennia of civilizations making the land their home, we have the potential to enrich our global community through cultural diplomacy.”

Uzakrota Travel Summit goes to Belgrad Turkey’s popular Uzakrota Travel Summit will be organized its first international event in Belgrad. Uzakrota Travel Summit will be held at Metropol Hotel Belgrad on October 27.

The summit will welcome some 600 attendees; representatives of travel agencies, travel technology companies, airline companies from Turkey and all over the Balkan countries as well as bloggers, and media.

Turkish ambassador of Serbia Tanju Bilgic and former CEO of Air Serbia Vladimir Ognienovic will talk about developments of Balkan tourism.

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Moreover, Serbia and Bosnia Regional Director of AtlasGlobal Ender Karaca, director of Yugoslavia Tourism Association Aleksandar Senicic, head of Oki Air and Montenegro Tourism Association Orhan Hodzic, board chairman of DEIK Aleksandar Medjedovic, founder of BalkanViator Matija Biljeskovic, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria and Romania marketing Director of Tourism Malaysia Cagri Saglik are some of the speakers. Also, CEO of Be Kosova Alban Bafuna, tourism director of Macedonia Business Chamber of Commerce Arkan Kerim, Sarajevo Director of Devim Tours Bülent Biçer, founder of AirTicket Arena Kresimir Budinski, marketing manager of Tourism Korea Erkan Aslantas, founder of Hotel Runner Arden Agopyan, Turkey general manager of Altavia Dekatlon Vadi Efe, Turkey general director of Wirecard Dundar Ozdemir, director of Mida Agency Nikola Panovic and director of Turizami Putovanja Milan Stojkovic will be among the attendees.

With the main sponsorship of Atlasglobal, the summit will cover wide range of topics including investments to Turkey and the Balkans, geographical handicaps in the Balkan tourism, health opportunities in the Balkans and Turkey, as well as trends and new startups.

Gulf Air Goes Daily to Istanbul Gulf Air, the Kingdom of Bahrain’s national carrier, will introduce a permanent increase to its Istanbul service with daily flights on the route effective early November 2017. The increase is in direct response to passenger demand, increasing the number of convenient flight options offered by the airline and giving passengers greater flexibility and choice when travelling to and from Istanbul.

Last year Gulf Air celebrated the 30th anniversary of its direct, nonstop service to and from the city of Istanbul in the Republic of Turkey. Launched in 1986, Istanbul is one of the airline’s main tourist destinations with growing numbers of passengers from Bahrain and the GCC throughout the year. Gulf Air’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Captain Waleed Abdul Hameed Al Alawi, commented on this growth saying: “Gulf Air’s Istanbul route performance to date has been promising with consistently strong passenger demand throughout the year. Offering our valued passengers a daily service to and from Istanbul meets their travel needs, further reinforcing the strong historic ties between Bahrain and Turkey and our airline’s key role in encouraging two-way travel, trade, tourism and investment opportunities.”

Operating double daily flights or more to 10 regional cities, Gulf Air provides excellent connectivity for passengers travelling to/from Istanbul with connections to various cities in the Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Asia.

The airline’s network currently serves 42 cities in 25 countries spanning three continents.

7.4 million passengers flew with Turkish Airlines in August 2017 Turkey’s national carrier; Turkish Airlines welcomed around 7.4 million passengers in August 2017. This shows an increase of 14% compared to the previous year’s month. The available seat kilometers were up by 2.6% compared to August 2016. Compared to August 2015, available seat kilometers increased by 18%, number of passengers carried by 16% and demand (revenue per kilometers) by 20%.

The carrier announced that the total load factor improved significantly by 5.7 points to 84.3%, while international load factor increased by 6.3 points to 84.1% ( August 2015 LF: %83.3, August 2016 LF: %78.6) Excluding international-to-international transfer passengers (transit passengers), the number of international passengers went up by 40%.

In August 2017, cargo/mail volume is increased by 18%, compared to August 2016.

During January-August, increase in demand and total number of passengers was 5.5% and 6.1%, respectively, over the same period of last year.

During January-August, total Load Factor improved by 4.3 points up to 79%, while international Load Factor increased almost by 5 points, up to 78%.

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NEWSLINE TURKEY Qatar Airways Launches 4th route to Turkey Qatar Airways has responded to increased customer demand for service to Turkey by launching direct flights to the southern city of Adana, the airline’s fourth route to the country. The new three-times–a-week service is in addition to the airline’s existing flights to the capital Ankara, and services to historic Istanbul’s two main airports: Atatürk Airport and Sabiha Gökçen Airport.

From 6 November 2017, Qatar Airways will operate an Airbus A320, with 12 seats in Business Class and 132 seats in Economy Class on flights between Doha and Adana Şakirpaşa Airport. It will be the first five-star Middle East airline to offer flights to and from Adana.

Inbrief Gülnur Atmaca established her own luxury travel agency; Fuchsia Travel Services.

Gürsel Karadeniz appointed to Macedonia Ramada Plaza Gevgelija as General Manager.

The Ritz-Carlton, Almaty appointed Can Göktaş as General Manager.

Mauritius Maritim Crystals Beach Hotel appointed Erdinç Savul as General Manager.

Located at the crossroads of Anatolia and the Middle East, Adana is Turkey’s fifth largest city and a major agricultural and industrial centre. A short distance from the Mediterranean coast, it is also famous for its traditional Turkish cuisine, and boasts several historic monuments and architectural landmarks, making it an ideal starting point for holiday-makers wishing to explore historic Turkey.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “Qatar Airways’ new service to Adana will help reinforce links between the State of Qatar and the Republic of Turkey and deepen the friendship and co-operation between our two great countries.

Ercüment Uluçer is the new General Manager of Titanic Business Bayrampaşa.

Aydın Duran is the new General Manager of Divan Cizre.

Radisson Blu Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul announced Rob Kucera as its new General Manager.

Dilek Ergun has been appointed Martı Hemithea Boutique Hotel as General Manager.

Uluç Aklar is the new General Manager of Hilton Garden Inn Sivas.

Volkan Öztürkler is the new General Manager of Crowne Plaza Florya.

Alper Can Bulcum named General Manager of The St. Regis Istanbul.

“Adana is an agricultural and industrial powerhouse, so our new three-times-a-week service will help boost all-important trade and commercial links between Qatar and Turkey. It will also increase tourism to a city renowned throughout Turkey for its incredible local cuisine which acts as a magnet for food-lovers. We are delighted to connect southern Turkey to more than 150 destinations worldwide through our five-star hub, Hamad International Airport in Qatar.”

Adana Şakirpaşa Airport is the sixth-busiest airport in Turkey.

At just 3.5km from the city centre, its international terminal can accommodate up to three million passengers a year. Qatar Airways currently operates flights to three destinations in Turkey, with separate services to Istanbul’s Sabiha Gökçen Airport (twice a day), and Istanbul Ataturk Airport (10 times a week) as well as daily flights to Ankara.

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Dedeman İstanbul appoints Tunay Erdal as General Manager İSG named Ersel Göral as its new CEO. IGA announced Kadri Samsunlu as its CEO and General Manager.

Volkan Kalkan named General Manager of Mersin Wonasis Aqua Resort Hotel.

MEET AT EXHIBITION

IMEX Frankfurt 2017 IMEX Frankfurt 2017 organized at May 16-18 with 3942 hosted buyers from 86 countries and 68.500 appointmens in 14.826 exhibitor stands. Turkey also participated IMEX with MICE companies in Turkish Ministry booth. IMEX gathered the global MICE clans and announced a record-breaking exhibitor footprint at this year’s show. The IMEX Run, Politicians’ Forum and Exclusively Corporate were all on the menu.

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MEET AT BIENNIAL The 15th Istanbul Biennial starts September 16 Organized by the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (İKSV) since 1987, the 15th Istanbul Biennial brings together artworks by 56 artists from 32 countries, including 30 new commissions, all addressing different notions of home, belonging and neighborhood.

Sponsored by Koç Holding, the 15th Istanbul Biennial takes place in six nearby venues within walking distance: Galata Greek Primary School, Istanbul Modern, Pera Museum, ARK Kültür, Yoğunluk Atelier, and Küçük Mustafa Paşa Hammam.

During the 15th Istanbul Biennial, a free of charge public programme of events that encompass a variety of activities and discussions related to the concept of a good neighbour will be held from 16 September with the participation of people from a variety of different fields. Coordinated by Zeyno Pekünlü, the public programme will include the opening symposium titled Chosen Families, which is focused on seeking belonging beyond the family institution and will be held at the Pera Museum on September 16 at 14:00. At the symposium, Sahrzad Mojab from the University of Toronto will describe from her own experience an immigration study on violence and the female body; Joseph Massad will give a speech criticizing the liberal manifestations of multiculturalism; while Şükrü Argın will make a presentation about the boundaries we draw within and outside national borders. The closing symposium titled Mutual Fate will take place at Istanbul Modern on 11 November at 14:00, with the participation of Massimo de Angelis, Stavros Stavrides and Ayfer Bartu Candan, focusing on the impact of urban ecology and spaces on our relations.

The programme will continue discussions around these two topics with weekly events where participants will think, cook, read and make music together. Ezgi Tuncer, a lecturer from Kadir Has University will carry out a workshop where invited chefs from different countries will cook and chat together, while academician Sezai Ozan Zeybek will make a presentation where he will study the history of dogs together with the history of the city. The workshop organised by Evrim Hikmet Öğüt will bring the immigrants and resident musicians of Istanbul together for improvised performances. Collective Çukurcuma will organise reading days in a new venue, which is located on the lower floor of the Nejat Eczacıbaşı Building where the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts is located.

In a workshop organised by the Hamisch (Syria Cultural House in Istanbul) and Goethe-Institute, children will create their own superheroes with the help of young Syrian artists.

During the preview days of the 15th Istanbul Biennial, various artist talks will also be given. Fred Wilson will give a speech at the Pera Museum auditorium on 14 September at 17:00 about his historically referenced work, Afro Kismet, which is exhibited in the same museum. Egyptian visual artist and researcher Heba Y. Amin will give a lecture performance in the Pera Museum auditorium on 15 September at 18:00 titled The General’s Stork, and related to her video work at the Galata Greek Primary School.

Simultaneous translation service will be provided during the artist talks and symposiums during the opening and closing weeks. Admission to all events is free.

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MEET AT MICE FAM

MeeTurkey @ IMFT

TCEB’s International Media Familiarisation Trip (IMFT) organized at 15-19 August 2017 at Pattaya, Hua Hin and Bangkok. 35 MICE travel writers from the 16 countries visited MICE hotels in Pattaya including Hilton Pattaya Hotel, Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa, in Hua Hin as Dusit Thani Hua Hin, Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa Hotel, Radisson Blu Resort Hua Hin Hotel, Sofitel Hua Hin and also in Bangkok as Siam Kempinski Hotel, and Dusit Thani Bangkok.

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There were many interesting attractions and inspections with the MICE products, places and venues during the IMFT. Pattaya’s Bleisure activities ; Spa & Ayurvedic & Wellness, Pattaya’s World Yacht’s Famous Dinner Cruises, Cooking Demonstration in Dusit Thani Hua Hin, Hua Hin Night Market, CSR Activities at Natural Capital for NEXT Generation at Somdet Phra Srinagarindra Park Sam Phraya, Bangkok’s Siam Discovery were the important MICE activities during the trip.

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MEET AT MICE FAM

VICE president of Strategic and Business Development of TCEB, Mrs. Supawan Teerarat presented Overview of Thailand MICE industry 2017, Why Thailand is ‘The KINGDOM of Bleisure’ and Bleisure Destination of choice; Bangkok – Pattaya – Hua Hin. Another meeting was given by Representative from Office of the National Economics and Social Development Board (TBC) about how the Thai Government’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) and Development project greater benefits MICE industry issues.

There were also many fun and entertainment sessions with performance shows at lunches and dinners at host hotels. Some of the events are: World Yacht’s Famous Dinner Cruise, Jazz night with dinner at Radisson Blu Resort Hua Hin Hotel, Late Night Farewell Party “The 80s Theme Night Farewell” in Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel.

The new president of TCEB, Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya also attended the party at Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel and met all hosted MICE travel writers one by one.

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MEET AT FESTIVAL

IKSV organized the 24th Istanbul Jazz Festival The 24th Istanbul Jazz Festival was held 4-21 July 2017. Over 20.000 festival audiences watched more than 200 local and foreign artists at more than 50 concerts at 20 different venues.

Organized by the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (İKSV) and sponsored by Garanti Bank for 20 years, the 24th Istanbul Jazz Festival kicked off with the opening ceremony and concerts at the Consulate General of Austria, Austrian Cultural Office Garden on Tuesday, 4 July. Fatih Erkoç, one of the veteran names of Turkish pop and jazz music, took the stage for the first performance of the 2017 Istanbul Jazz Festival. After Fatih Erkoç, electro swing band DELADAP from Austria energized the audience, let them dance with their music.

Before the concerts, an award ceremony took place. The 24th Istanbul Jazz Festival’s Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to Kamil Özler, the conductor of TRT Big Band, and Fatih Erkoç, one of the veteran names of Turkish pop and jazz music.

The festival programme included a range of jazz, funk, world music, blues and rock performances, with highlights including “Beyond The Memory” concert where famous stars paid tribute to the cult flamenco guitarist and composer Paco De Lucia, the young star of vocal jazz Kandance Springs, masters Jacky Terrasson & Stephane Belmondo, one of the legendary names of European jazz Nik Bärtsch, and two delightful voices from Africa Fatoumata Diawara and Hindi Zahra. The “JUNUN” project, which had been initially led by Radiohead’s guitarist Jonny Greenwood, is among the guests of this year’s festival.

This year’s festival featured a remarkable innovation titled “ViTRin”: Showcase for Contemporary Music from Turkey which aims to focus on the successful musicians and ensembles of the local scene, for a wider outreach with the support of SOCAR Turkey.

The music marathon “Night Out” and open air event “Jazz in the Parks” were held on the Asian side of Istanbul as part of the festival programme.

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Mandarin Hotel Managed by Centre Point is world renowned for its superb service, located in the heart of Bangkok, the Mandarin is a sophisticated, non-smoking, luxury hotel. The hotel is not only within short walking distance to both MRT subway and BTS sky train stations but also within easy reach of all city’s key attractions.

The 374 rooms are immaculately designed and offer the utmost in comfort.

We also provide function rooms of various sizes accommodating from 15 – 1200 people. Our function rooms are perfect for all types of conference. Our dedicated event team is on hand to ensure the success of your event.

FAME & GAME

Istanbul to host UEFA Super Cup in 2019 Istanbul, a popular destination for sportive events, will host UEFA Super Cup match in 2019. Beşiktaş’s home stadium of 43,000-capacity Vodafone Park will host the final match. The Vodafone Park was renovated and reopened in April 2016 with a capacity of about 43,000 spectators.

Estadio Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid, Spain will host UEFA Champions League Final in 2019. UEFA Europe League Final in 2019 will be played in Olympic Stadium in Baku, Azerbaijan.

It is not the first final game for Istanbul. The city hosted the 2005 UEFA Champions League Final at the Ataturk Stadium where Liverpool beat AC Milan 3-2 on penalties after the match finished 3-3 after extra time.

In 2009, Fenerbahçe's Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium hosted the 2009 UEFA Cup Final that FC Shakhtar Donetsk beat Werder Bremen 2-1.

Other cities that bid for the 2019 UEFA Super Cup final are: Tirana, Toulouse, Haifa, Astana, Belfast, and Gdansk.

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Turkey’s Fenerbahçe named Europe’s Best Basketball Team The four best European basketball teams have competed in the Final Four, the final stage of the Turkish Airlines Euroleague 2017, held in Istanbul. Turkey’s Fenerbahçe won the coveted Cup against Olympiacos Pireus (Greece) with a result of 80:64 before the excited fans at the Sinan Erdem Dome. All of the teams already disputed the 2015 Final Four of two years ago in Madrid, even with the same semi-finals matchups.

Thousands of basketball fans followed the 2017 Final Four live at the Sinan Erdem Dome in Istanbul. The final match between Fenerbahçe and Olympiacos attracted more than 10 thousand Fenerbahçe fans and about 2,500 Olympiacos fans.

Basketball fans could also watched the Final Four matches live on planes and cruise ships. This year’s Final Four also break a record in total number of broadcasts. The final games, which were broadcasted live in 214 countries, acted as a massive promotion for Istanbul and Turkey.

CSKA Moscow and Real Madrid played to be the third on Sunday 18:00 (local time) which ended 94:70 with CSKA Moscow’s victory. With CSKA Moscow finishing third, the final game of Turkish Airlines EuroLeague after which Fenerbahçe emerged as the Champion. Right before the third period, Hidayet Türkoğlu, President of the Turkish Basketball Federation handed over a symbolic basketball to the local basketball authorities of Belgrade, Serbia which will host the finals in 2018. During the rest of the match, Fenerbahçe dominated the game and became the best team of 2017 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague with a score of 80:64.

The Turkish crowd strongly supported their team at every minute and proved to be excellent hosts –must be noted that this was the first time a Turkish team played the Final Four in its own country-.

This incredible show has offered to all sports lovers, both in Istanbul and around the world, a truly unique experience, in line with various enjoyable activities performed by the expert teams both from Turkish Airlines and EuroLeague Basketball. It has also been the perfect occasion to launch once again the solidarity initiatives carried out by OneTeam, Euroleague's corporate social responsibility program, created with the airline's support in 2012.

The Euroleague Basketball was created in the 2000/2001 season. In 2010 Turkish Airlines, flying to more countries and international destinations in the world, became the official sponsor of the most important basketball competition in Europe, as well as its final round. For this season, the flag company has celebrated the Final Four in Istanbul, which has made this collaboration even more special. More than 18.000spectators have enjoyed the best European basketball to encourage CSKA Moscow, Olympiacos Pireus, Real Madrid and Fenerbahçe. The Turkish Airlines sponsorship to the EuroLeague Basketball will extend for three more years.

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MEET AT FORUM

MTF 2017 Luang Prabang, a world-class event Nearly 400 travel and tourism industry professionals gathered at Lao PDR’s Luang Prabang city for the 2017 Mekong Tourism Forum (MTF 2017). Professionals exchanged lessons and experiences to promote competitive, inclusive, and sustainable tourism between 5–9 June 2017. The Forum demonstrated that smaller towns without large conference halls can host world-class events.

There were many seminars in meetings in different places as hotels, restaurants and Mekong river ferries.

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Thailand’s Northeastern or Isan province of Nakhon Phanom has been chosen as the host venue for the Mekong Tourism Forum (MTF) 2018. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports proposed Nakhon Phanom as an ideal host venue for the event because the province’s eastern border is the Mekong River itself and this influences the culture of the region.

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NEWS LINE WORLD IMEX America announces venue change and new dates up to 2025 The IMEX Group – organizers of IMEX America – has announced the dates and locations for their industry leading Las Vegas show through 2025.

Ray Bloom, Chairman of the IMEX Group said, “We know that our industry partners from across North America and around the world plan numerous activities and co-located events around IMEX America. In addition, the fall is a very busy period for the industry. As a result, we felt that it was important to give the industry as much notice as possible with regards to our dates and venues going forward to assist with their own planning.

“In particular, we wanted to remind the industry that we will be moving from our usual October dates to September for two (2) years in 2019 and 2020.”

In addition to confirming the dates, the IMEX Group has also announced that from 2021, after ten successful years at the Sands Expo & Convention Center, IMEX America will move to the Mandalay Bay Convention Center.

Ray went on to explain, “The Sands Expo team have been wonderfully supportive partners since well before our inaugural show in 2011 and we are looking forward to four more successful shows working with them, through 2020. Their contribution in helping us to establish IMEX America in Las Vegas as the event where everyone from our industry, from the USA and worldwide, gathers each fall has been invaluable. We are incredibly grateful for their partnership and are looking forward to continuing that partnership for many years into the future.

“However, we were not able to lock in space from 2021 onward. Therefore, after celebrating ten years working together and enjoying a fantastic relationship with the Las Vegas Sands team, we shall be moving to Mandalay Bay. We look forward to establishing successful partnerships with the Mandalay Bay and MGM Resorts International teams and we know that their world-class facilities will be an equally fitting home for the show.”

Talking about their excitement in hosting the show in the future, MGM Resorts International and Mandalay Bay commented, “We are honored to partner with IMEX America and to keep such a prestigious industry event in Las Vegas. As an active supporter of IMEX, MGM Resorts International is excited to create new experiences for attendees at Mandalay Bay. We will continue to showcase the city of Las Vegas and MGM Resorts International as the leading meeting and events destination” said Stephanie Glanzer, CMP, Vice President Sales of Mandalay Bay. The dates and venues for IMEX America for the next eight years will be: ¡¡ 2018 October, 16-18 Sands Expo

¡¡ 2022 October, 25-27 Mandalay Bay

¡¡ 2019 September, 10-12 Sands Expo

¡¡ 2023 October, 10-12 Mandalay Bay

¡¡ 2020 September, 15-17 Sands Expo

¡¡ 2024 October, 8-10 Mandalay Bay

¡¡ 2021 November, 9 -11 Mandalay Bay

¡¡ 2025 October, 7-9 Mandalay Bay

IMEX America, America’s worldwide exhibition for incentive travel, meetings & events, will take place from October 10 – 12, 2017 at the Sands Expo and Convention Center at The Venetian and The Palazzo, preceded by Smart Monday, powered by MPI on October 9.

Italy named Premier Partner of WTM London 2017 The Italian National Tourist Board will be the Premier Partner at WTM London 2017 – the leading global event for the travel industry – as Italy takes a “fundamental step” towards a new marketing strategy. Known as ENIT, the tourism body has signed the Premier Partnership deal to ensure widespread media coverage; to offer maximum support its tourism industry; and to highlight Italy’s diverse range of holidays.

ENIT will have two main stands at WTM London (EU2000, EU2070) and will share its exhibition space with around 230 Italian travel trade partners, including regional tourism bodies, hotels, travel agencies, resorts and operators.

Through its Premier Partnership status, Italy aims to “reposition and widen the Italian tourist offer” beyond the traditional tourist destinations.

ENIT will also shine a spotlight on its themed years, with Italian villages being the focus for 2017, and food and wine in 2018.

Both themes promote the Italian way of life, which can be experienced by tourists across the whole country – from its mountains to the coast, lakes and cities.

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Indeed, the country’s cuisine is already a major draw, and it is regarded as the number one destination for food and wine tourism, according to the Food Travel Monitor.

Italy will also use WTM London to highlight its cultural attractions and the fact it has more UNESCO World Heritage sites than any other country, with 53.

According to FutureBrand’s Country Brand Index, it is ranked top for Tourism & Culture – and it is the most photographed country on Instagram, with 64 million tags and counting.

Its varied attractions mean Italy is the fifth most popular destination worldwide for international arrivals, with 52 million visitors in 2016 – up 3.2% on 2015.

These visitors generated more than €36 billion euros last year for the Italian economy, with Germans accounting for the highest amount at €5.7 billion. The US was the second biggest market (€4.6bn), followed by France (€3.6bn), the UK (€2.9bn) and Switzerland (€2.4bn).

Cities famed for their art and culture – such as Rome, Milan, Venice, Florence, Naples and Turin – are the most popular option for overseas tourists, who spend about €14 billion in this sector. Overseas tourists visiting for seaside holidays, meanwhile, generate almost €5 billion.

WTM London 2017 takes place 6-8 Nov 2017 at ExCeL - London.

Dubai's meetings industry contributes US$102 million to economy in H1, 2017 Dubai Business Events (DBE) has reported strong results for the first half of 2017, with 97 bids submitted to host business events being successfully awarded to the city. The events secured since January, including conferences, exhibitions, meetings and incentive trips, are poised to attract over 51,636 delegates from around the world, resulting in an expected economic impact of approximately AED 375 million (US$102 million).

In the first six months, Dubai Business Events won a total of 97 pitches to host business events in the city, and is currently awaiting verdict on 97 more that have been submitted. Key wins include: Baby Care Annual Incentive (2018), World Conference on Desalination and Water Re-Use (2019), and Congress of the International Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied Professions (2022).

Dubai Business Events has also ramped up efforts to highlight the city’s business events offering to international audiences. DBE representatives have attended over 50 trade events in the first half of the year, interacting with over 4,500 business events buyers and planners. The bureau has also facilitated a total of 16 site inspections with 38 clients, and hosted 144 buyers from around the world as part of four in-depth Dubai study missions.

Steen Jakobsen, Director of Dubai Business Events, said: “We’ve had a stellar start to the year, and are well on our way to achieving our targets set for 2017. As we continue to work towards further strengthening Dubai’s reputation of being a premier host destination for business events, we have a steady pipeline of initiatives planned for the year ahead. We are also focusing on expanding our network and reach globally, enabling businesses, event buyers and planners to benefit from our expertise.”

Dubai Business Event’s Al Safeer Ambassador Programme has also contributed significantly to the city’s success in bidding for international events. The programme features a network of 300 prominent experts from diverse sectors, including academia, finance, and healthcare, who are based in Dubai. Since January, the programme contributed to securing a total of 11 business events for the city.

Further study missions in 2017 will come from India, China, the Americas and Southeast Asia, while DBE will also build on its participation in major trade shows with a significant presence at IMEX America in Las Vegas and IBTM World in Barcelona towards the end of the year.

Recently, Dubai was named as one of the top 10 destinations for international meetings by Union of International Associations (UIA) in its latest edition of the International Meetings Statistics Report published last month. The city previously ranked 14th in the 2015 edition, and moved up the list with a total of 180 meetings taking place in 2016.

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NEWS LINE WORLD Top North American cities for meeting planners DestinationMAP, which is a comprehensive study of meeting planners and the meetings market in North America, reveals top North American cities for meeting planners in 2017.

According to STR‘s 2017 DestinationMAP, Chicago, Orlando and Washington, D.C., are the top North American markets. Following Chicago (67%), Orlando (67%) and Washington, D.C. (66%), the most common destinations that meeting planners have used or would consider using are San Diego (64%) and Las Vegas (62%).

“Sixty-seven percent of planners listed Chicago and Orlando in their destination consideration set, and both markets were particularly popular in what we define as the large meetings segment (1,000+ attendees),” said Chris Klauda, STR’s director, destination research.

“Planners indicated that a safe environment was overwhelmingly the top consideration when selecting a meeting site, followed by a clean and attractive location, and other logistical considerations.”

Other key findings from the 2017 DestinationMAP include: Corporate planners (40%) make up the largest employer type among meeting planner segments followed in almost equal proportions by associations (29%) and third-party planners (31%). Each of those segments demonstrated differences in destination consideration and past/future usage.

A safe environment and a clean/attractive site were the top considerations for selecting a meeting site, followed by ease of access and value.

Convention center considerations, such as adequate seating, reasonable rental rates, helpful staff and adequate hotel rooms nearby, are important to a large majority of meeting planners.

Those in the large meetings segment ranked adequate hotels rooms nearby and attractive conference hotels higher in importance than did their smaller meeting counterparts.

Environmental deterrents (unsanitary and unsafe) are the lead location deterrents for almost all meeting planners.

Bad publicity is only a moderate concern among all meeting planners and even less of a concern in the large meeting segment.

Among meeting planners who plan seven or more meetings annually, roughly one-third attend IMEX America, while one-fourth attend local/national Meetings Professionals International (MPI) and Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) events.

Over the past 10 years, Group (bookings of 10 or more rooms) average daily rate has grown at three times the rate of Transient (bookings of less than 10 rooms) ADR.

Kuala Lumpur to Host The Worldchefs Congress & Expo The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre will host the Worldchefs Congress and Expo 2018. Worldchefs is the global authority on food and their congress is a hallmark tradition of the association and has been organised in over 20 cities across the world throughout its illustrious 82-year history. The 2018 congress will be its first time in Malaysia and only the second occasion in the organisation’s history that the event will be held in South-east Asia.

KLCC’s Executive Chef Hisham Bin Jaafar said, “Our team can’t wait to host the over 1,000 delegates of the culinary world’s crème de la crème.

Our award-winning chefs will ‘leave no stone unturned’ in our efforts to showcase the best produce and ingredients Malaysia has to offer and to ensure these culinary experts have a truly unique Malaysian gastronomic experience they will never forget,” added Chef Hisham.

Organised by the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs), the biennial event gathers culinary heavyweights from around the world to discuss developments in the culinary field and compete in the Worldchefs Global Chefs Challenge. A trade show component showcases the latest products in the global food and beverage industry.

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NEWS LINE WORLD TCEB presents Thailand’s Bleisure destinations From 15 to 19 August , Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) organizes an annual media event, TCEB International Media Familiarisation Trip, or IMFT2017 to provide a first-hand experience of Thailand’s readiness and capability as a regional MICE hub in Asia.

Mrs. Supawan Teerarat, Vice President of TCEB’s Strategic and Business Development, said that Thailand is moving forward in all area of development to steer the national economy to Thailand 4.0 era. The government encourages public and private partnership along the economic transition with policies that enhance new business environment, the innovation, as well as the promotion of hard and soft infrastructure. Thailand 4.0 inspires and encourages business activities and this, in turn, makes the country a venue for meetings linked to trade development, technology and research. The uplift of the country’s economy will directly benefit MICE industry.

TCEB’s role is to push MICE industry to drive the country towards stability, prosperity and sustainability to be competitive. The results of a study on economic impact in 2015 show that the Thai MICE industry helped generate total expenditure of 220 billion baht (USD 6,285 million) for the country's economy, while generating 164,427 jobs, and benefitting industry networking, and generating tax revenue of 10,400 million baht. (USD 297.1 million) “Last year, Thailand’s MICE industry received positive news from leading international associations. The International Congress and Convention Association, or ICCA, placed Thailand as having hosted 174 events, ranking Thailand 24th, an improvement from 27th in 2015, with Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Pattaya ranking higher than the previous year as well. In terms of exhibitions, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, or UFI, ranked Thailand the number 1 among ASEAN nations in terms of exhibition space sold over the past 5 years (2011-2015)” said Mrs. Supawan.

Bleisure destinations: Pattaya, Hua Hin, and Bangkok feature potential growth in MICE. Pattaya, the country’s favorite sea side resort for business and leisure, will be benefited from the upcoming mega projects in the Eastern Economic Corridor, located in its neighborhood. The next major economic zone of ASEAN will see more that 1.505 trillion baht (USD 43 billion) of the new investment during the next five years. Key infrastructure projects that will enhance connectivity and business activities in the area include an upgrade of U-Tapao Airport and Laem Chabang Seaport; high-speed eastern rail route development; double track railways development; and highways and motorways expansion. Future more, the economic corridor is expected to be the powerhouse for ten targeted future-industries under Thailand 4.0 model attracted by the government tax incentives. Adding the growth of business activities to the sea, sun and beachside fun, Pattaya features endless opportunities for Bleisure travelers.

Adding the growth of business activities to the sea, sun and beachside fun, Pattaya features endless opportunities for Bleisure travelers. Recognized as one of Thailand’s leading MICE cities, the destination is home to a worldclass multipurpose convention facility, myriad meeting venues, hotels, and seaside attractions. New facilities for Bleisure activities in Pattaya include the Nongnooch International Convention and Exhibition Centre – with a large auditorium and more than adequate seating capacity for seminar, KANN Show – a live cinematic experience inspired by Thai pieces of literature; and Health Land Spa Pattaya – a one-stop landmark for total wellness.

Conveniently linked with Pattaya by a two-hour ferry ride via the Gulf of Thailand, and two and a half hours drive from Bangkok, Hua Hin - the royal heritage beach resort town traces its aristocratic roots to 1920s when royal summer residences established in the area.

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IT&CM Asia 2017 Localises Preview Reception in Bangkok To Woo Thai Buyers IT&CMA, together with the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), put together a special preview roadshow for local Thai buyers in Bangkok, Thailand, on 18 July 2017 to showcase the upcoming leading MICE and Corporate Travel event centered in the Asia-Pacific. The event venue and reception was generously sponsored by the new Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park.

Reinforced Mr Ooi Peng Ee, General Manager – Events, TTG Asia Media. “IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacific’s longevity is a result of our unwavering mission in helping our industry, and all the people in it, grow. Our commitment in establishing valuable and sustainable partnerships, working with entities like TCEB and events like these to cocreate value, have been key to our success.”

Organisers were also keen to be the link in connecting local suppliers and buyers with the international audience that will be present at the September show and in return, charm more international Convention Visitor Bureaus and National Tourism Organisations to Thailand to collaborate and compete in the market.

Acknowledging education as a key component in elevating the local and regional business landscape to global standards, the hosts also encouraged local industry players to share their expertise with the conference development team in moulding a more well-rounded education programme.

Emphasising the importance of the local market, said Ooi, is critical in helping create opportunities for Thai MICE suppliers and the local buying market to connect. “To consolidate Thailand’s position as one of the most diverse MICE destinations in the World and as IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacific ushers in its 25th and 20th anniversary respectively, we will definitely work with our destination partners like Thailand, Busan, Dubai, Indonesia, Osaka, the Philippines, Taipei, and many more, to showcase their offerings and support their growth.”

IT&CMA 2017 will be held from 26 – 28 September 2017 at the Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld. It is co-located with the CTW Asia-Pacific – The Leading Corporate Travel Management Conference for the Asia-Pacific.

7 new trends for the Meetings industry Meetingselect, the partner of choice for connecting meeting and event planners with inspirational meeting venues and conference hotels all over the world, announced 7 trends in the meeting industry that you should not miss.

1. The loft: Hotels and meeting venues play a huge role in making meeting rooms more enjoyable, focusing on Feng Shui and other philosophies from the Far East. The long table and artificial light is replaced by natural furnishing, with high wooden tables, cozy seats, softly lit lounge areas and business deals being closed around the fire place.

2. The great outdoors: A fresh breeze, a shot of vitamin D, a lovely biological lunch in the garden: a guarantee for sharpening the senses of your attendees instantly. The sky is literally the limit: why not take your guests to a mountain hut in the Alps? In Singapore, organize a morning session on a rooftop terrace, poolside ofcourse.

3. Bleisure: It’s not just about an efficiently organized meeting or conference, it’s all about the fun and experiences a venue or destination has to offer after – or even during – business hours. Offer yoga sessions before breakfast, organize a city walk or a wine tasting session in the bar. Blending business with pleasure, or bleisure, is a trend not to be missed.

4. Unplug and be mindfull: Mindfulness is all about the ‘now’, the present moment. Focus and attention are key here. It will help participants see things more clearly and make better decisions. Unplug. Tomorrow is another day, the present is now.

5. Splurge!: There’s nothing wrong with splurging every now and then – all being it in a somewhat more profound matter. It’s up to the meeting industry to facilitate that with state-of-the-art equipment, professional guidance, fun experiences and outstanding hospitality.

6. Sharing is caring: Hundreds of books have been written about the meeting industry, numerous lectures given.

But,best practices from your peer-to-peer network have proven to be just as educational. Your colleagues in the field often experience the same challenges you face, or have brilliant tips about that one, unique venue or destination.

7. Technology as a basic need: A venue that has poor technical facilities will not be booked a second time, period.

In the top 5 of biggest irritations during a meeting or conference is a slow internet connection, having to pay for WiFi, and technical equipment that does not deliver what it promised. Beamers that malfunction minutes before your presentation, incompatible software.

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NEWS LINE WORLD

* Cambodia launches the first Cambodia Travel Mart Ministry of Tourism Cambodia in-collaboration Slickbooth Holding – Events & Public Relations, officially launch the first Cambodia Travel Mart “CTM” 2017 which will be held from 17 to 19 November 2017 in a wonder cultural land Angkor Wat of Siem Reap – Angkor Province.

The event is initiated by His Excellency Dr. Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism Cambodia. High-ranking officers and experts from Ministry of Tourism Cambodia, industry leaders and subordinates of private companies involving in tourism that attended the event.

The Cambodia Travel Mart “CTM” 2017 was principally approved and permitted by the Royal Government of Cambodia in 2015. The Ministry of Tourism Cambodia has a duty to organize and cooperate with state institutes and private sectors in tourism. Slickboth Holding, Event & Public Relations is an important partner with the Ministry of Tourism to organize the international tourism expo in Cambodia, supervised by TTG Asia Media & Events, a Singaporean company experiencing organizing many international tourism expos over the past 30 years.

The Cambodia Travel Mart “CTM” 2017 is a tourism business forum between tourism companies, tourism operators, tourism experts, national and international media, total of approximately 500 companies and agencies. The forum is supported by tourism organizations of ASEAN state member countries to improve local and regional tourism.

This special event is a golden opportunity to promote tourism destinations, trade service packages, exchange experience and make business partners.

This event contains many essential activities such as pre-online business mataching, friendly golf tournaments, workshops related to tourism, travelling and displaying tourism products and services. CTM will have approximately 200+ national and international sellers and 200+ national and international buyers. Besides sellers and buyers, there will be about 50 national and international media agencies joining this amzing event.

CTM is an event organized to show Cambodia’s support of promoting tourism destinations of ASEAN member countries to the world and to celebrate the Visit ASEAN@50 (Golden Celebration) as well.

His Excellency Dr. Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism Cambodia announced that because of peacefulness in Cambodia has made tourism developed from year to year under the brilliant leadership of Prime Minister Samdach Ahka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen. In 2016, the number of tourists visiting Cambodia increased 5%, and there were about 5 million tourists. In 2017, Cambodia expects to have 5.5 million tourists and 7 million in 2020. Thus, the first event of CTM in Siem Reap this year is a key factor to develop tourism in Cambodia and to achieve the expected goals.

In this occasion, we would like to welcome and invite national and international tourism agencies to support and involve in this event to get the opportunity to advance your businesses, especially, to make national and regional service industry go to the peak.

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CAMBODIA TRAVEL MART Sokha Siem Reap Resort & Convention Center, Siem Reap, Cambodia

17th - 19th November 2017

The inaugural Cambodia Travel Mart aims to a leading annual international travel event selling Cambodia and the region to the world. CTM will feature Leading Travel Industry Suppliers from Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam and will attract regional and international buyers and media buying and reporting on these destinations. Buyers, suppliers, trade professionals, association leaders and media partners from the tourism and travel organizations meet and exchange the latest and new developments in the industry and develop more business growth.

212 Booths, 200 Sellers, 200 Buyers, 50 Media 200+ Buyers 200+ Exibitors

from China, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, India and EU (UK, Germany, France, Spain, Italy and Scandinavian

from travel agents, hotels, and airlines including other fields from education, restaurants, hopistal, spa, massage and other related sectors.

50% MICE | 50% Leisure Organized by

Supported by

www.ctmcambodia.com

COVER STORY

Gรถbekli Tepe in Turkey

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i

s

The World’s Oldest Temple

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COVER STORY

G

öbekli Tepe (meaning the hill with a belly or belly hill in Turkish) is a hilltop sanctuary erected on the highest point of an elongated mountain ridge some 15 km northeast of the city of Şanlıurfa, in southeastern Turkey. The hill, which rises out of the landscape unlike the surrounding area, has a gentle slope like a mound; that’s where the name Göbekli Tepe is coming from.

The site was examined in the early 1960’s by archeologists from the University of Chicago, and the University of Istanbul. It was part of a larger survey of the region, and at the time, it was dismissed as the remains of a medieval monastery. In 1994, the German archaeologist Klaus Schmidt was working on his own survey of prehistoric sites in the region. After reading a brief mention of the stone-littered hilltop in the University of Chicago researchers' report, he decided to go there himself. Schmidt re-examined the site and found that it was more extraordinary.

Klaus Schmidt and his team have uncovered many massive carved stones at Göbekli Tepe, which he says are about 11,000 years old. Schmidt dates the site by comparing stone hammers and blades found there to artifacts found at nearby sites that have been carbon dated to 9,000 BCE. He's also done some "limited" carbon dating himself that he says confirms his estimate. He determined that it was built during the late Paleolithic, when the region was still inhabited by hunter-gatherers.

This is certainly before the beginning of agriculture anywhere in the world, before the invention of the wheel, the creation of pottery. Göbekli Tepe was built by a hunting/gathering society. Twelve thousand years ago, the region was ecologically richer than it is today, and probably supported large numbers of animals. Schmidt, speculates that hunter/gatherer bands or tribes met during part of the year, lived near the site in animal skin tents, hunted local game, and built the complex over several decades.

A large number of flint arrowheads found near the site support this idea.

Bones of wild animals are found in great profusion, many of them bearing marks indicating that the animals were butchered. All the bones are from wild animals, mostly gazelles, but also boar, red deer, wild sheep, as well as several species of birds. Based on this evidence, he and other archaeologists have concluded that the site was not a regular habitation site but that it had a special, perhaps religious function. Schmidt in fact believes it was a temple, the world’s oldest temple.

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Both excavations and geo magnetic results revealed that there are at least 20 installations, which in archeological terms can be called a temple. Based on what has been unearthed so far, the pattern principle seems to be that there are two huge monumental pillars in the center of each installation, surrounded by enclosures and walls, featuring more pillars in those set-ups.

Schmidt says the monuments could not have been built by ragged bands of hunter-gatherers. Each T-shaped pillar varies from 40 to 60 tones, would have required hundreds of workers, all needing to be fed and housed. Still there is no scientific explanation of how on earth they accomplished such a monumental feat. In a time when even simple hand tools were hard to come by, how did they get these stone blocks there, and how did they erect them?

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COVER STORY

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While little is known about the people who constructed the site, it is known that they were on the crux of a major change in human civilization—swapping a hunter gatherer lifestyle for a sedentary one, when people began farming and settling down in one place.

In Spring 2017, three skulls discovered at the site of Göbekli Tepe, were found to have been carved and drilled into. Human skulls can be venerated for various reasons, ranging from ancestor worship to the belief in the transmission of protective or other properties from the deceased to the living.

This focus on the human skull, including its special treatment, led to the establishment of the term skull cult in the anthropological literature.

While the practice of modifying and displaying skulls for religious purposes was widespread during the Neolithic period (around 12,000 to 4,000 years ago), these skulls represent the earliest evidence of it.

Furthermore, the skull findings at Göbekli Tepe are a hitherto unknown type of skull modification. This potentially makes it one of the first Neolithic “skull cults”—civilizations that carried out ritual modifications to skulls after death. Although human burials are still absent from Göbekli Tepe, a considerable number of fragmented human bones have been recovered. Most of the human bone fragments stem from the skull and a total of 40 skull fragments carry cut marks from defleshing activities.

(German Archaeological Institute/Julie Gresky)

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COVER STORY The researchers do not know who the skulls belonged to. One appears to be a female aged between 25 and 40, but the condition of the skull means scientists cannot be certain of the sex of any of them. There was also not enough collagen to date the bones directly. Instead, the team had to go on the circumstantial evidence in which they were found, making them around 11,000 years old.

Gresky’s study published in the journal Science Advances summarizes skull findings: “The three modified skulls from Göbekli Tepe represent an entirely new category of find, which testifies to the interaction of the living with the dead at this important Early Neolithic ritual center. These skulls, most likely removed from the postcranium in the frame of secondary burial rites, attest to the special postmortem treatment of certain individuals at Göbekli Tepe.

Special status of the individuals could have been emphasized through the application of decorative elements to the crania, which were then displayed (also suspended) at designated points around the site. At present, it is unknown whether these treatments were performed in the frame of ritual activities in the monumental buildings or were brought to the ritual center from settlement sites within its catchment.”

“This site, it’s not a pure settlement, it’s much more. It’s really a ritual site,” says Julia Gresky, from the German Archaeological Institute. Gresky says the way the skulls were carved suggests it was done to display them in a certain way, rather than for decorative purposes. The scientists now hope to find more skulls. Only one part of Göbekli Tepe has been excavated, so Gresky is hopeful other examples will be uncovered. But they will have to wait until the next excavation season (Autumn) to do this.

Göbekli Tepe was deliberately abandoned about 8,000 - 7,500 BC, soon after the development of agriculture in the region. The entire site was deliberately covered with earth before it was abandoned, which is why it is so well preserved today.

42 | MeeTurkey | September 2017

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DESTINATIONS - ANKARA

Ankara, the capital of Turkey, is located in the center of Anatolia province. With a known history of around 3000, Ankara has seen great heights in the past. Around 3000 years ago, the Hittites established a city by the name of Akuwash (old name for Ankara) at the intersection of two trade routes in Turkey. During its earlier phase, Ankara was ruled by Phrygians, Macedonians (under Alexander the Great), and Romans. Seljuk Turks captured the city in 1071 AD and renamed it as Enguriye.

Most important moment in the history of Ankara came when Atatürk founded his provisional government here in 1920, and in 1923 when it became the capital of Turkish Republic. The city has seen a number of changes since then, however it has been successful enough in maintaining a fine balance between the old and the new and thereby living up to its unique identity as the “Melting Pot of East and West”. Today, Ankara is a sprawling urban mass thoroughly organized and well - planned and much European in look than most of the cities in Turkey. Its wide-open roads, large hotels, restaurants and government offices distinguish the city. Besides, there are several tourist attractions and meetings in the city making it an ideal destination for the tourists and mice industry.

City At a Glance Population: 3,627,098 Traffic Code: 06 Telephone Code: 0312

How to go Ankara’s international Esenboga Airport is well connected to other cities in Europe as well as to important destinations in other parts of the world.

What to do The foundations of this citadel were laid by Galatians to be completed by the Romans. Byzantines and Seljuk made major changes later on. The citadel is located atop a hill in the old city where one can see some fine examples of traditional architecture of Ankara.

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What to see

The Ankara Citadel The Museum of Anatolian Civilization Anıtkabir The Temple of Augusts The Roman Bath The Column of Julian Had Bayram Mosque The Hatti Monument Victory Monument Monument of the Republic Yeni Mosque Kocatepe Mosque

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DESTINATIONS - ANTALYA

Visit the picturesque old quarter of Kaleici; narrow, winding streets and old wooden houses around the ancient city walls. Since its founding in the second century B.C., Antalya has been continuously inhabited. The region, bathed in sunshine 300 days of the year, is a paradise of sun-bathing, swimming and sports activities like windsurfing, water skiing, sailing, mountain climbing and hunting. If you come to Antalya in March or April, in the mornings you can ski the slopes and in the afternoons you can swim in the warm waters of the Mediterranean. Important historical sites await your discovery amid a landscape of pine forests, olive and citrus groves, and palm, avocado and banana plantations. The Turquoise Coast is the tourism capital of Turkey. Its full range of accommodations, about 35 000 delegates, sunny climate, variety of excursions and activities, and its warm hospitality make it a soughtafter venue for meetings and conferences. The Antalya Convention Bureau, ACB, is an independent, non-profit making organization. Founded in 1995, the Antalya Promotion Foundation (ATAV) has become a member of the European Federation of Conference Towns (EFCT) in 1997. A Culture, Exhibition and Congress Center was opened in 1996 in the Konyaalti district. The Congress Center is located in a glass pyramid.

City At a Glance Population: 1.132.211 Traffic Code: 07 Telephone Code: 0242

How to go Antalya airport is 10km east of the city center, and has direct flights from Europe. It is well connected to other parts of Turkey, and daily direct flights from Istanbul and Ankara.

What to do With its palm-lined boulevard, internationallyacclaimed marina, and old castle with traditional architecture, all set amidst a modern city, Antalya is a major tourist center in Turkey. In addition to the wide selection of hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and shops, the city also plays host to a number of sporting

46 | MeeTurkey | September 2017

events throughout the year, like International Beach Volleyball, triathlon, golf tournaments, archery, tennis and canoeing competitions. Opened in 1995, the Cultural Center hosts cultural and art events. The main area of interest in the city is central old quarter within the Roman walls, known as Kaleici, and there are many interesting museums around the city. ¡¡ ¡¡ ¡¡ ¡¡ ¡¡ ¡¡

What to see

Archaeological Museum Truncated and fluted minarets Hadrian’s Gate Old Harbour Perge, Side, Aspendos Düden and Kursunlu Waterfalls Antalya Castle

DESTINATIONS - ISTANBUL

The former capital of three successive empires -Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman- Istanbul is a fascinating mixture of past and present, old and new, modern and traditional. The museums, churches, palaces, mosques, bazaars, and the sights of natural beauty seem inexhaustible. As you recline on the shores of the Bosphorus at sunset contemplating the red evening light reflected in the windows and slender minarets on the opposite shore you understand, suddenly and profoundly, why so many centuries ago settlers chose to build on this remarkable site. In addition to its unique historical and cultural background and innumerable attractions, modern hotels, exclusive restaurants, nightclubs, cabarets, bazaars and shops make Istanbul a superb site for meetings, conferences and conventions. Istanbul is fast becoming one of the most popular international congress and exhibition destinations.

The opening of the Lütfi Kirdar International Conference Center (ICC) doubled the capacity of congress facilities in Istanbul. The ICC is ideally located in the modern district of Harbiye, at the center of the city’s business, cultural and commercial life, surrounded by some of Europe’s top quality hotels. Istanbul Convention & Visitors Bureau (ICVB) has all the contacts and information for your meetings in Istanbul.

City At a Glance Population: 14.000.000 Traffic Code: 34 Telephone Code: 0212 (European side) - 0216 (Asian side)

How to go Istanbul city has modern and new international airport, which is well connected by regular flights, with most important destinations in Europe, Middle East, and North America with. Besides, vast networks of flights fly between Istanbul and various other cities of Turkey.

Ataturk International Airport is 20 km from city center.

Helicopter service is also available between the cities.

What to do While in Istanbul there is so much to do and look forward to. The museums, castles, palaces, great mosques, bazaars and sights of natural beauty seem inexhaustible.

Being a cultural and historical center, exploring the grand heritage of the city should be the top most priority.

Shopping which can be a pleasure in the markets of Istanbul should form another important part of your itinerary. More than anything else a walk down the lanes and by lanes of the many bazaars in Istanbul can be a great experience, if interested in feeling the culture and lifestyles of the people of this amazing land. ¡¡ ¡¡ ¡¡ ¡¡ ¡¡ ¡¡

What to see

Dolmabahçe Palace Küçüksu Pavillion St. Irene Blue Mosque Topkapi Palace Mosaic Museum

¡¡ ¡¡ ¡¡ ¡¡ ¡¡ ¡¡

Covered Bazaar St. Sophia Kariye Museum Beylerbeyi Palace Yerebatan Cistern Miniatürk

September 2017 | MeeTurkey | 47

DESTINATIONS - IZMIR

Izmir, historically known as Smyrna, is the third most populous city of Turkey and has the country’s largest port after Istanbul. It is located in the Gulf of Izmir, by the Aegean Sea. It is the capital of Izmir Province. Izmir has the inherit of almost 3,500 years of urban past, and possibly up to that much more in terms of advanced human settlement patterns. It is Turkey’s first port for exports and it has free zone, a Turkish-U.S. joint-venture established in 1990, is the leader among the twenty that Turkey counts. Its workforce, and particularly its rising class of young professionals, is concentrated either in the city or in its immediate vicinity (such as in Manisa). Izmir is widely regarded as one of the most liberal Turkish cities in terms of values, ideology, lifestyle, dynamism and gender roles.

The Izmir Convention & Visitors Bureau (Izmir CVB) was founded in 2007 by Izmir Tourism Promotion Foundation (IZTAV), as a non-profit and independent organization. Izmir CVB’s mission is to promote the city’s rich cultural and natural assets .It has great potential on a national and international level and is seeking guidelines and best practice to develop the city’s congress tourism.

City At a Glance Population: 3,627,098 Traffic Code: 35 Telephone Code: 0232

How to go Adnan Menderes Airport, 16km south of the city center, has several daily flights to Istanbul, Ankara and Antalya. There are also regular flights from many European cities.

What to do While in Izmir see the sights, the Archaeological Museum near Konak Square, which houses a superb collection of antiques including the statues of Poseidon, and Demeter that in ancient times stood in the agora.

Neighboring the Archaeological Museum, the collection of the Ethnography Museum contains folkloric artifacts among which are fine collections of Bergama

48 | MeeTurkey | September 2017

and Gördes carpets, traditional costumers and camel bridles. Situated on Atatürk Caddesi (Street) there is an old Izmir house used by the founder of the Turkish Republic, the Atatürk Museum, exhibits photographs of the leader as well as some of his personnel belongings.

The Selcuk Yasar Art Museum is a private museum on Cumhuriyet Boulevard with a collection of 20th century Turkish art. Wander in the bazaar, sip drinks and dine at the pleasant waterfront restaurants. ¡¡ ¡¡ ¡¡ ¡¡ ¡¡ ¡¡

What to see

Agora Pergamum – Bergama Milet - Dydima Clock Tower Kemeralti Kadifekale

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Asansor Ephesus – Selcuk Virgin Mary Alacati Seferhisar Cesme

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