Tourism Review Online Magazine - 04/2011 by Tourism Review Digital Network

APRIL, 2011

ONLINE MAGAZINE

Dear readers, The spring issue of the Tourism Review Online Magazine is here. Explore the ancient beauty and the vast steppes of Kazakhstan. The Destination supplement presents not only the landmarks of this central Asian country but also the challenges of its tourism industry. Discover the same region from a different perspective. The Professional part invites you to follow the Great Silk Road and visit several countries that joined the project. While exploring the silk route you might meet numerous pilgrims. Pilgrimage travel is a growing force in the tourism industry. Learn more in the Ethical supplement. For marketing trends enthusiasts there is the Transport part presenting several cases of innovative marketing campaigns of airlines. Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passengers may book their flight through Facebook, get ready for wireless in-flight entertainment and get a personalized gift now and then. If you are looking for a perfect destination of your family holiday let us inspire you. The Heritage supplement discusses kids-friendly hotels. Milada Sovadinova Editor

CONTENTS HERITAGE

TRANSPORT

Hotels for tHe little ones

Not many hotels around the world regard families and children as their VIP guests. However some hoteliers know that the little guests will become big one day and they will come back. Welcome to the kidsfriendly hotels.

CONTENTS

APRIL , 2 0 1 1 T o p I n n o vaT I v e a I r l I n e s

Airlines are one of the most innovative companies with respect to marketing and promotion. Today, some airlines give presents to their passengers, enable them to book the flight through Facebook or offer wireless in-flight entertainment.

HERITAGE:

Hotels for the Little Ones................ 4 Kids Friendly Hotels – Five Essential Elements for Happy Holidays.......................... 5 Round Hill Hotel and Villas – Jamaican Hospitality Focused on Families.............. 7 What to Look for in Family Friendly Luxury Hotels?.................................................. 9 Enchanting Destination for France Family Vacations............................................. 10

PROFESSIONAL

Top Innovative Airlines..................... 39 Condor to Launch Wireless In-flight Entertainment System................................ 40 Spanair Taps Demographics to Deliver Holiday Surprise......................................... 42 Malaysia Airlines: Booking, Check-in and Sharing through Facebook................. 43 KLM Surprises Travelers to See ‘How Happiness Spreads’......................................... 45

Destination KazaKhstan: ancient and Poetic

T r av e l i n g T h e S i l k r o a d

Ancient towns, splendid architecture, friendly people, delicious cuisine, exotic atmosphere …all this is the Great Silk Road. Discover Uzbekistan, Mongolia, Azerbaijan and many more countries following the famous trade route.

Kazakhstan is a country of vast steppes, ancient culture, as well as the first world’s cosmodrome – Baikonur. The country’s tourism industry has great potential; however, considerable development is necessary.

Professional:

Traveling the Silk Road......................... 12 The Revival of the Great Silk Road.............................................................................. 13 UNWTO: The Silk Road Project...................................................................................... 16 Azerbaijan and Mongolia: Explore the Silk Road..................................................... 18 Uzbekistan’s Ancient Cities: Travel Back in Time........................................................ 20

ETHICAL

Destination:

Kazakhstan: Ancient and Poetic.................................47

Tourism in Kazakhstan – New Branding Strategy Needed....................................... 48 Kazakhstan: Building the Tourism Infrastructure.................................................. 51 Almaty: The Cosmopolitan Center of Kazakhstan.................................................... 53 Back to the Soviet Era: Exploring the Baikonur Cosmodrome.............................. 56 Turkistan: The Archeological Treasure..................................................................... 58

Fairs & Exhibitions

Pilgrimage Travel in The 21sT CenTury

Pilgrims conquering the world? Perhaps not yet, but still there are millions of tourists who travel each year for spiritual reasons. Discover the art of pilgrimage, visit Lourdes in France, south American temples or even Armenian monasteries.

TRANSPORT:

T r av e l / T o u r i s m

ETHICAL:

i n

a P r i l

2 0 1 1

b y

r e g i o n s

Fairs & Exhibitions:

Pilgrimage Travel in the 21st Century............................................................. 22

Travel/Tourism in APRIL 2011 by regions.........................................60

Sacred Encounters: The Art of Pilgrimage............................................................... 23 Favorite French Pilgrimage Destinations: Lourdes and La Salette....................... 26 Faith Tourism in Armenia: Monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin.......................... 28 Develop Your Own Pilgrimage Tourism..................................................................... 30 Via Francigena – Walking Europe’s Oldest Pilgrimage Trail.................................. 33 Travel to Mother Earth’s Sacred Places.................................................................... 36

Western Europe............................................................................................................. 61 CENTRAL Europe.............................................................................................................. 63 Africa/MIDDLE EAST........................................................................................................ 65 North America............................................................................................................... 66 Asia & Pacific................................................................................................................... 67

HERITAGE

Hotels for the Little Ones

HERITAGE

H ot e l s f or t h e L i t t l e O ne s

Kids Friendly Hotels – Five Essential Elements for Happy Holidays Nothing beats a great holiday with the family. Whether it's a short break among the UK's most scenic countryside or the night before flying away on an eagerly-awaited foreign trip, a hotel that offers these key benefits is a big hit with parents and kids alike. Here's a five-point guide to a great hotel experience for modern families. 1. Wonderful grounds for safe exploration

Kids of all ages love interesting places: acres of grounds to explore; maybe features such as a labyrinth or a stone circle or two; even the possibility of spotting wildlife. The best family friendly hotels have plenty of safe, spacious grounds where children can let their imaginations run wild as they let off steam before or after a long journey.

3. Refreshments available 24/7

Holidays are busy times, especially if your hotel has lots of exciting grounds to explore. Children often need a snack, while adults will appreciate the opportunity to unwind with a drink and a bite to eat. When you're planning your family friendly hotel accommodation, make sure the hotel has onsite facilities for delicious refreshm e n t s around the clock. Day or night, y o u ' l l appreciate the opportunity to

2. Interconnected rooms – comforting for children with privacy for adults

The latest family friendly hotels ensure a wide choice of interconnected rooms. Parents and kids can have their own space. Adults and elder children get the privacy they want – while younger children feel safe with adults close at hand. April, 2011

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enjoy a favorite treat whenever you feel hungry. 4. Child friendly staff makes all the family welcome

Remember when you were little and the staff at a hotel or restaurant made a special fuss of you? Enlightened family hotels make special efforts to accommodate the needs of children: around the hotel

HERITAGE

grounds, at mealtimes or when your kids have special needs, child friendly staff makes the difference between simple accommodation and a holiday experience that children will remember for a lifetime. 5. Internet connection for older children to use

Most modern youngsters will be keen to keep in touch with their friends even while they're on holiday. Modern family friendly hotels with wireless broadband access mean they can access their favorite social networkApril, 2011

ing or entertainment websites. And of course, reliable Internet access is a boon when you need to make last minute travel arrangements, check email or plan a day out. Choosing a suitable hotel is easy if you follow a few simple guidelines. As usual, it's the little details that make the best possible holiday experience for all the family. By Neil Tufano http://www.winfordmanor.co.uk http://EzineArticles.com

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H ot e l s f or t h e L i t t l e O ne s

HERITAGE

H ot e l s f or t h e L i t t l e O ne s

Round Hill Hotel and Villas – Jamaican Hospitality Focused on Families Round Hill Hotel and Villas is a Classic Jamaican property situated on a lush 110-acre peninsula just west of Montego Bay. Boasting a guest list of world leaders, cultural icons and Hollywood A-listers, this classic resort continues to attract a jet-set of families from around the world who enjoy timeless glamour and understated luxury along with pristine natural beaches and the inimitable Caribbean waters. Accommodations include 36 Ralph Laurendesigned oceanfront guest rooms, 90 luxurious villa rooms and suites or a selection of 27 private 2–6 bedroom Signature Villas – most with private pools. Other highlights include openair terrace dining and The Grill at Round Hill, an infinity pool, tennis courts, and an Elemis spa located in a beautifully-restored 18th century plantation house.

Round Hill recognizes and treasures the importance of family; welcoming generations of visitors who return to experience the warm Jamaican hospitality and nurturing environment for families and children. From pick-up football games on the lawn to snorkel lessons or basket-making in the Kids Club, Round Hill creates long-lasting family memories. Pineapple Kids Club

The Importance of Family

Originally opened in 1953, Round Hill Hotel and Villas has always had a focus on making luxury travel available to families. From beach barbecues and the ever-popular Jamaica night complete with jerk chicken and traditional Jamaican performances, families from around the world have been able to enjoy all that the unique destination has to offer with their family-friendly accommodations and activities. April, 2011

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Due to popular demand this year, the property unveiled and expanded Pineapple Kids Club to cater to a wider range of ages. The extended club has new features including an Xbox, a foosball table and a variety of additional activities to entertain young adults in addition to children. Also available are half and full-day kids camps featuring traditional Jamaican folklore storytelling, craft-making and sport and sea activities. In the evening, children can enjoy traditional entertainment highlighting the rich culture of Jamaica. Kids Club’s personnel are fully trained and have completed professional courses in role and functions of children centre personnel, health and safety, activities planning and coordination, and the child development process.

HERITAGE

H ot e l s f or t h e L i t t l e O ne s

Something Special in 2011

Home away from Home

A wide range of accommodations also make the resort an ideal family destination. Families have the option of staying in one of the 2-6 bedroom Signature Villas; perfect for traveling with children of all ages. The villas provide a true “home away from home” for guests. Breakfast is prepared in-villas by the villa housekeeper to allow for a leisurely morning before a day of activities to enjoy all that the tropical surroundings have to offer. Another option for families is the 36-room Pineapple House which is located close to the restaurant, pool and other main areas of the resort. With connecting rooms, families can

April, 2011

enjoy breathtaking ocean views from the comfort of one of the many on-suite patios or balconies.

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This year, Round Hill has introduced a variety of new programs for families including a stargazing beach picnic with s'mores and hot chocolate for the children and wine for the parents, along with on and off-property activities and excursions. Family and children's activities can be arranged through the concierge. Additionally, the property’s newly expanded beach is the perfect place for a day of building sandcastles or enjoying the warm waters of the Caribbean. The staff at Round Hill pride themselves on building personal relationships with their guests. Parents can enjoy their stay at the property knowing that their children are in the hands of highly trained individuals who make it a priority to ensure young guests have the best experience possible while on their stay. Other important facts for planning a family holiday at Round Hill include an after-hours nanny service for infants which is available at an additional charge. Cribs and highchairs are available for no extra charge and early dinners orders off the Children's Menu or a reduced meal plan can be arranged upon request. Photos: Thomas Hart Shelby http://www.roundhill.com

HERITAGE

H ot e l s f or t h e L i t t l e O ne s

What to Look for in Family Friendly Luxury Hotels?

Families with young children often opt for self-catering accommodation when planning a vacation but choosing family-friendly luxury hotels could be a better way to go. The advantages are quickly apparent – no beds to make, no breakfast to prepare, no bathrooms to clean and no bedding to launder. You simply April, 2011

close the door on the mess and head out for the day. Return later to a spick-and-span room to repeat the cycle. While some hotels advertise that they are family friendly, the high-end luxury hotels go the whole nine yards. They know just what children need and they set out to provide it. Milk and cookies at bedtime, kiddie-sized bathrobes, baby-sitting services, toys on loan and a special children's menu all make a huge difference. One good example is the Four Seasons, Los Angeles, which not only provides bedtime milk and cookies, but also cute complimentary kiddies t-shirts. Their Hawaii resort goes one better, with a free kids program for 5-12 year olds, giving mom and dad time off to explore the sights alone. Some of the chain hotels offer family sized rooms and complimentary breakfasts in their budget rooms, but this barely makes the grade. The Sheraton Group of hotels certainly makes more effort adding great value for money. Luxury hotels located close to family attractions such as the Six Flags theme parks often have discounted family tickets and shuttle transport. Other hotels, such as the Marriott in Denver, throw in free movie tickets when booking a family package, so it's always worth asking what is available at check-in.

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Las Vegas is a great destination for kids of all ages, and most of the larger luxury hotels have cots and roll-away beds without any extra fees. Currently the best deals for family breaks are offered by Loews Lake at Henderson, and the Venetian, right on the Strip. Hotels in Europe also welcome families with additional services such as babysitting at the San Regis in Paris, which often has special family packages. On the premise that happy children make a happy holiday, it is well worth seeking out family friendly luxury hotels to make sure that the trip runs smoothly and all the extras are available. By Alexander Brey http://www.luxique.com http://EzineArticles.com

HERITAGE

H ot e l s f or t h e L i t t l e O ne s

Enchanting Destination for France Family Vacations Children Treated as VIPs

Situated in France on the edge of the Royal domain of Versailles in a three-acre wooded park, the Trianon Palace Versailles, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel is only a short 20 minute trip from the heart of Paris. The hotel is only steps from Louis XIV’s famed Chateau de Versailles offering guests the opporApril, 2011

tunity to discover one of the world’s most celebrated destinations in addition to authentic luxury experiences with elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites, contemporary interior design by Fiona Thompson, a full-service Guerlain Spa and Gordon Ramsay’s first restaurant in France, Gordon Ramsay Au Trianon.

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With its magnificent architecture and lush, ornate gardens, the Trianon Palace Versailles immediately captures the imagination of every child who passes through the stately entryway. To ensure your France family vacation is an equal balance of child-friendly entertainment and adult-style relaxation, the Hotel offers a variety of onsite amenities, programmes and packages specifically designed to please both parents and children. Currently two customized family-friendly packages are on offer. The Kid’s Package includes luxurious accommodation, full American buffet breakfast, entrance to the "Hameau de la Reine" (The Queen's Hamlet), a rural retreat built for Marie Antoinette next to the Petit Trianon in the extensive grounds of the Château de Versailles, fresh milk and delicious home-made cookies in the room, and free access to the swimming pool. The Family Minibreaks Package (choose Room Only option, or Room with breakfast , or Room with breakfast and dinner on the first night, or Room with breakfast and daily dinner) includes free stay for children under the age of 18 when sharing parents’ room, half-price room for children under the age of 18, children up to the age of 10 can eat and drink for free from our children's menu at La Veranda restaurant, compli-

HERITAGE

mentary access to the hotel swimming pool, lazy breakfast until 11 am on Saturdays and Sunday, complimentary late check-out on Saturdays or Sundays available up to 6 pm. Besides other facilities for the comfort of children, the Hotel offers adjoining family rooms, baby cots, changing mats at no extra charge, babysitting services, baby seats at the Restaurant La Véranda, children’s menu at the Restaurant La Véranda, children’s bathroom amenities in the room (bathrobe and slippers). Let’s Have Some Fun

To entertain the little guests the Trianon Palace Versailles has created its very own treasure hunt in the gardens of the Chateau de Versailles complete with road book and reporters cap. Just beyond the borders of the Hotel however lies a world of castles, gardens and amusements to explore, including the legendary Royal Domain of Louis XIV. As you plan your

April, 2011

Versailles France family vacation, consider a visit to one of the area’s many chateaux, or delight your children with the small-scale models of France Miniature. Spend your France family holiday exploring the magical world of Versailles, and discover a place of endless charm and whimsy. The Hotel offers a haven of tranquility with breath-taking views of Louis XIV’s Royal Domain, but the bright lights of Paris and a host of sporting, historic and entertainment attractions are only a short distance away. Families will enjoy the thrill and fantasy of Disneyland Paris, with familiar characters and gentle rides for little children, whilst Disney’s new spooky hotel attraction, The Tower of Terror, complete with plummeting lift, will appeal to those with stronger nerves and stomachs. http://www.trianonpalace.com

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H ot e l s f or t h e L i t t l e O ne s

PROFESSIONAL T r av e l i n g t h e S i l k R o a d

PROFESSIONAL

The Revival of the Great Silk Road

Tr a v e l i ng t h e S i l k R oa d

The Great Silk Road is rightly considered to be one of the remarkable achievements of the ancient civilizations. For the first time in the history of mankind it has connected different countries and nations from the Mediterranean to the Pacific Ocean, has combined their material, art and spiritual cultures. For many centuries on this route people were interchanging handicrafts, technologies, ideas and beliefs. The historians date back the origin of the Great Silk Road at its full extension to the second half of the 2nd century B.C., when the Chinese diplomat and spy Chjan Tzyan originally introduced to his countrymen Central Asia – then unknown region located in the West. The Great Silk Road had a considerable impact on the formation of political, economic and cultural order of the countries located along these routes. Time and again this region underwent predatory and internal wars; powerful and small states appeared and collapsed; former capitals gave way to new ones. Landmarks and Cultural Heritage

The sights related to the Silk Road are scattered over several countries. In Uzbekistan alone there are more than four thousand ancient monuments, including those whose age exceeds 1000 years. Here one can find such treasures of the world culture as the Mausoleum of Ismail Samani and Minaret Kalyan in Bukhara, built in the 10th–12th centuries, Registan square in Samarkand, Buddhist temples in Dalverzintepe and Fayaztepe and a lot more. According to the UNESCO decision April, 2011

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the historical centers of Samarkand, Bukhara, Shakhrisabz, the complex of Ichan-kala in Khiva are included in the World Heritage List. Among the historical landmarks on the Great Silk Road are such cities as the ancient Merv, located in Turkmenistan and called by Arab historians the "father of the cities", the majestic construction of Amir Temur epoch – the mausoleum of Hodja Ahmad Yassavi in the Kazakh town of Turkestan, the monuments on the territory of Iran – the ruins of ancient Elama, Chogi-Zembil, a well-known complex of Meydan-Imam in the centre of Isfahan, Tahte-Suleyman settlement with its Zoroastrian temple dedicated to the goddess Anahit. The routes of the Great Silk Road also crossed South Caucasus – Armenia, Georgia, Azerbaijan. The UNESCO World Heritage List was supplemented with the names of cathedrals and monasteries of Echmiadzin, temple of Zvartnots in Armenia, cathedrals of Sveti-Tshoveli and Bagraty and Ghelaty monastery ensemble in Georgia, the old urban ensemble with castle of Shirvanshah and Maiden's Tower in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. The Great Silk Road, however, is renowned not only for its man-made monuments, but also for ample spiritual heritage, including folklore. Just as famous are the Georgian polyphonic singing called "shakrullo", the cultural wealth of Boysun Region in Uzbekistan, other spiritual values illustrating the prime and development of various cultures throughout the whole length of Great Silk Road. At present UNESCO patronizes all of them. April, 2011

Mountains and Rivers

The Great Silk Road however is not only the network of caravan trails and a number of cities and towns which used to be stopping places for traders. It is also a magnificent scenery: mountain peaks and alpine meadows of the Tien-Shan and the Pamirs, sandy deserts intersected by a unique handmade construction – the Karakum Canal, glittering waters of Lake

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Tr a v e l i ng t h e S i l k R oa d

Issyk-Kul and relic pine forests of Borovoye, skiing resorts of Chimgan and Beldersay, picturesque Charvak water reservoir, nut groves in Arslanbob tract and a number of other notable places to visit. Those who fancy extreme tourism could try their strengths by mountaineering, down-stream boating or rafting on the rapid mountain rivers, or, just as ancient pilgrims did, to make a horseback riding or even more exotic camel riding along desert dunes.

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Tr a v e l i ng t h e S i l k R oa d

The Silk Road Today

Great Silk Road today is one of the most attractive tourist routes. It is much due to the revival of the Great Silk Road that the mankind has access to the global heritage of different nations that for thousands of years lived along this great transcontinental arterial road and that formed and matured their varied cultural wealth. A rather important mission in reviving the Great Silk Road is assigned to the World's Tourism Organization (UNWTO), which has been implementing a long-term tourist project aimed at the promotion of tourism in this region. The Great Silk Road as a tourist product has many peculiarities. Unlike classical tour, which implies the touring of one separate country, it is a transnational tour, where a traveler is given an opportunity to visit several countries at a time and to learn about the past and the present of these countries. All of the landmarks along the route like many other historic monuments are major tourist attractions and are visited by crowds of travelers all the year round. At the service of tourists there are comfortable jet planes, high-

April, 2011

speed buses, fast trains, developed infrastructure and comfortable hotels. The Great Silk Road has luckily escaped the common lot of many ancient roads, known in the past but well forgotten today, as for instance 'Via Appia' – a road in ancient Rome. Today the Great Silk Road has been called for by the world community and experiences its rebirth, its renewed popularity. And for all those who take the routes of the Great Silk Road – the road of communication between the East and the West, we say: "Have a good trip on the Silk Road!" http://www.silkroad.travel

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www.caucasusexplorer.com

PROFESSIONAL

UNWTO: The Silk Road Project

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Tr a v e l i ng t h e S i l k R oa d

The Silk Road once ran across much of the known world, from China in the East, across Asia and the Middle East, to the shores of the Mediterranean to the West. Although it was essentially a trade route, the Silk Road evolved to become a much greater phenomenon and played a fundamental role in the social, cultural, and religious development of many countries in the region through the exchange of goods, people, ideas, and religions. Over the past decade, there has been a significant revival of the Silk Road for tourism purposes. The cultural attractions of cities such as Xi’an, Bukhara, and Samarkand, the majestic beauty of the Tien-Shan mountains, the Gobi desert, river valleys and steppes, the rich cuisine, and variety of folklore and handicrafts, appeal to tourists who are eager to relive the legend and capture some of the magic of the ancient Silk Road. For centuries, the Silk Road was travelled by conquerors, traders, missionaries, geographers and more recently, by tourists. It served as a fundamental link between the East and the West, exchanging cultures, crafts, ideas, technologies, beliefs and peoples. Since 1991, coinciding with the independence of the former Soviet States, there has been a revival of the Silk Road interests – for cultural exchange, trade and tourism. Encouraged by this development, UNWTO decided, at its General Assembly in Indonesia in 1993, to create a long-term tourism project that would promote a special Silk Road tourism concept. Since then 24 member states actively participate in the UNWTO Silk Road Project. Several

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Tr a v e l i ng t h e S i l k R oa d

Take the chance to welcome new Russian travellers

meetings and forums were held, some of which concluded with the adoption of new Declarations. UNWTO has published several studies on the issue of the Silk Road, as well as brochures for further promoting the Silk Road concept. The Silk Road is a project designed for the countries involved and it is the participating countries which stand to benefit from its outputs and activities. The active participation and close collaboration and cooperation witnessed between the countries themselves on one hand, and the countries and UNWTO on the other, has assisted the Secretariat in taking a number of tangible actions to establish the Silk Road as a viable tourism product and

in creating awareness of the Silk Road in the primary source markets. The countries, on their part, have moved forward with the development of infrastructure and superstructure. All in all, a lot has been done since the project got off the ground in 1994 but, like the Great Silk Road itself, there is still a long way to go. And, the UNWTO intends to continue its journey on the road to further progress and development with the active assistance and cooperation of all the participating countries. http://unwto.org/silkroad/

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Tr a v e l i ng t h e S i l k R oa d

Azerbaijan and Mongolia: Explore the Silk Road While the glory days of the Silk Road came to an end with the expansion of European sea trade in the late 15th century, today many destinations along the old trade routes are considered as important tourism landmarks. The different destinations along the Silk Road offer a huge variety of experiences for tourists. Visitors travel the Silk Road to discover the history and ancient myths, to have active holidays among the stunning sights and beautiful natural sceneries, or to witness at first hand the fascinating and exotic local customs. Among the amazing number of places to visit are Azerbaijan and Mongolia, two countries that are not known very well in most parts of the western world but have a lot to offer. Azerbaijan: Architectural Masterpiece in Baku

Azerbaijan offers a broad spectrum of opportunities for everyone. Visitors can explore historical attractions as well as natural wonders or spend some time trekking, camping, bird watching or fishing. Azerbaijan’s main Silk Road attraction “Old Baku” (the Inner City) is in the capital Baku itself. It was built during the Middle Ages and is encircled by fortress walls. It is worth to visit the Shirvanshakh Palace, which is April, 2011

regarded as a masterpiece of Azeri architecture and gives visitors an impression of how locals lived between the 13th and 15th centuries. Other attractions like the Maiden Tower or the Mohammed Ibn Abu Bakr mosque complete the reflection of the important role Baku played as a political, cultural and economic centre and as leading commercial hub for merchants from Russia, Genoa, Venice and Central Asia.

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A good way to explore the specialties of Azerbaijan is to go on the Grand Caucasian Range Tour. This tour takes in historical attractions as well as natural wonders; it follows the old Caucasian artery linking Europe and Asia and leads visitors into a cluster of villages, which still preserve their medieval way of life and distinct language. Among all the facets that Azerbaijan has to offer the strongest argument to plan a trip to this country might be the stunning natural beauty of its diverse landscape, which includes forests, mountains, coastlines and plains. Excellent ways to enjoy the landscape are trekking tours along the rivers and mountains or bird watching camps in the Talysh region. A natural site not to be missed is Nabran. Situated about 160 kilometers north from Baku, Nabran is a recreational area where forested hills featuring unique trees meet the golden sands of the Caspian Sea. Tourists travelling to Sheki, Ordubad or Ghiandj will find active silk makers. Those places belong to the most important silk worm breeding regions in the Middle East since ancient times and silk goods are a specialty of Azerbaijan’s artisans. Azerbaijani cuisine has been influenced by the food of different cultures and so food lovers will find a great variety of soups, as well as rice pilafs made with meats, greens and fruits, and kebabs and shashliks.

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Mongolia: Experience the Life of Nomads

Mongolia is a little-known land mostly associated with Genghis Khan, the legendary Silk Road conqueror and statesman. But this region has far more to offer. Around half of the inhabitants of Mongolia still retain the nomadic lifestyle and traditions of their ancestors and visitors are welcome to learn about this traditional way of life. Authentic ways to get to know the country are tours including steppe and mountain trekking, kayaking and camping trips where visitors are accommodated in wooden framed ‘gers’ or round felt tents. Mongolians are famous for their hospitality and their guests will learn how Mongolians handle horses and livestock, how they hunt and how they practice their shaman-based religion. At the same time visitors will experience April, 2011

Mongolia’s most stunning natural site: the fabled steppes. The food is simple and basic and mostly consists of lamb or beef, meatfilled ravioli called “buuz”, wheat pastries, milk and cheese. An event not to be missed is one of the oldest Mongolian traditions, the Naadam Summer Festival. Mongolians gather for three days of horse races, archery contests, wrestling matches, music and festivities. Another breathtaking site to visit is the Gobi Desert. In the past the Gobi Desert was avoided by travellers because of its size and myriad dangers. Today camel expeditions across the Gobi Desert as well as mountain and glacier climbing in the majestic Altai Range are very popular with adventure travellers. By Wiebke Wohlfahrt

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Tr a v e l i ng t h e S i l k R oa d

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Tr a v e l i ng t h e S i l k R oa d

Uzbekistan’s Ancient Cities: Travel Back in Time Uzbekistan has well preserved the relics from the time when Central Asia was the centre of Tamerlane’s empire, which also coincided with the development of education and commerce. The cities of today’s Uzbekistan, including Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, Tashkent and Shakhrisabz live in the imagination of the West as the symbols of oriental beauty and mystery. Many cities which are located in modern Uzbekistan were in ancient times on the Silk Road, on the road between the East and the West. The trade route was named after silk – the Chinese material that was in great demand in Europe. The advantageous geographical location of the Uzbek cities made them naturally attractive to numerous conquerors. The territory of modern Uzbekistan was conquered many times by various nations and warriors, including Alexander the Great. Alexander founded at least eight cities in Central Asia between 334323 BC. As for caravans, they started passing on the Great Silk Road later, since the year 138 when China opened its borders for trading. During the period from 484 to 1150 the region was invaded by the western tribes: Huns, Turks and Arabs, the latter brought a new religion – Islam. Within that period, many mosques and madrasahs had been built in Samarkand, April, 2011

West under the name of Tamerlane, revived the destroyed cities using for that the slaves and builders who had been captured during Timur’s successful military campaigns. Tamerlane annexed Persia, Baghdad, he also headed to Anatolia and India. The majority of the architectural buildings that were located in Samarkand today, were built by Tamerlane and his grandson Ulugbek. The Cities of Uzbekistan Samarkand

Samarkand is one of the oldest cities of Uzbekistan and of the world. In the middle of the first century BC it was known under the name of Marakanda and later known as Afrosiab. It was the capital of the powerful state Sogd, the center of Amir Timur's great empire. The numerous monuments of Samarkand and its suburbs impress tourists with their beauty and splendor. The refined architectural shapes, intricate ornamentation, mosaics, blue-tile domes and facades are interesting for all who visit these beautiful buildings. Bukhara and Khiva. Most of them were built during the reign of Samanids. Many cities were totally destroyed during the invasion of Genghis Khan in 1220. Later, the great conqueror Timur, known in the

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Tashkent

Although Tashkent was probably first settled around the 1st century BC, written records date the city to its Arab occupation in the 8th century AD. The 13th-century defeat to Genghis Khan and his Mongolian forces threw Tashkent

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into an era of turmoil. The Mongols lost the city in the 14th century when the Timurids Empire seized control. The Timurids Empire ruled Tashkent until the late 15th century, when the Sheibanids swept through the region. Today, Tashkent is the capital of Uzbekistan.

yon for thousands of years. Armies of Alexander the Great, Chengiz Khan, Tamerlan passed through this area. Nukus

Nukus is located in the north of Uzbekistan near the Aral Sea, surrounded by three deserts – the Kara Kum, Kyzyl Kum desert and rocky Ustyurt. Despite the fact that the city is only 70 years old, the land on which it stands, is an ancient cultural stratum, which archaeologists have identified as belonging to the IV century BC. er.–IV century AD.

Bukhara

The settlement of Bukhara in Uzbekistan dates back to the 8th century and for the next 200 years it used to be the center of an expanding Islamic kingdom and prospered as a trade and intellectual center for Central Asia. During the Mongol invasion it was destroyed by Genghis Khan in 1219. Subsequently it was ruled by a succession of regional powers, including descendants of Genghis Khan, Turks, and Uzbeks. Once one of Islam's most sacred cities, Bukhara contains many examples of fine Islamic architecture. Khiva

Khiva is known as a museum city under the open sky. It existed as a town for about 900 years, but was developed into the settlement as it is today only by the 19th century, when it was the last oasis on the northern Russian slave trade route. Important spiritual and cultural values came from the large scientific centers of astronomy, mathematics, and medicine that existed in this area centuries ago. One can wander through the narrow streets of Khiva, peeking into the small courtyards through

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Tr a v e l i ng t h e S i l k R oa d

Ferghana and the Ferghana Valley

the wooden carved doors. The life inside the gardens assures the visitor that it is not just a museum, but also a living city. Baysun

Do you wish to travel back in time that will transfer you to a forbidden territory that keeps the memory of culture of Greek and Baktrian and Kushan kingdoms that fell into oblivion of heathen ceremonies of fire-worshippers, and shaman cults? Trade caravans traveled here through Iron Gates in narrow mountain can-

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The city of Fergana, in the south of the Ferghana Valley is one of the youngest cities in Uzbekistan. It was founded in 1876, after annexing the Kokand Khanate to the Russian Empire. And a new town called New Margilan was founded 12 km away from the city which became the center of Ferghana region. Nurata

Even some local residents of Uzbekistan do not know well about the ancient history of the town. It was lost in the outskirts of Kyzyl Kum desert in the foothills of the mountains Nuratau (which stretch from Jizzakh to Navoi). The highest point of the whole mountain area is the peak Hayatbashi (2169 m). http://www.advantour.com

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Pilgrimage Travel in the 21st Century

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Sacred Encounters: The Art of Pilgrimage

The Sufi mystic Mevlana Rumi wrote seven centuries ago, "Don't be satisfied with the stories that come before you; unfold your own myth." His poetic brother here in the West, Walt Whitman, put it this way: "Not Iâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;not anyone else, can travel that road for you. You must travel it yourself." Together, these musings aspire to the idea echoed in the work of seekers everywhere, that travelers cannot find deep meaning in April, 2011

their journey until they encounter what is truly sacred. What is sacred is what is worthy of our reverence, what evokes awe and wonder in the human heart, and what when contemplated transforms us utterly. The Knot of Eternity

Surely, a voice whispered to me one night in the ruins of an old castle in Donegal. Ireland,

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surely there is a secret way. The moon was rising like a celestial mirror over the heathery hills. The sea slapped at the peculiar basalt rock formations along the coast. The wind howled like Gaelic pipes. From a distant farmhouse came the sweet smell of burning peat. I stood shivering in the stone archway of an ancient chapel. Turning my head, I saw the weathered carving of a centuries-old Knot of Eternity. Each thread wandered far from the center, then whorled back in again. The ancient Celts believed this to be a potent symbol of life's journey, and the desire to return to the source that replenishes the soul. Slowly, I followed the old stone path with my finger. Around and around went my hand, feeling the ancient chisel marks, the abrasions of wind, rain, and sun, and the tender burnishing of time. I thought of all the travelers who had come there, step by step, prayer by prayer, and wondered if they had discovered what they had been seeking, if their faith had been restored. Slowly, the moon lit the ancient stone. The night air stung my eyes. My hand kept moving across the eternal knot, seeking out the hidden pattern beneath the whirling stone. In the sublime moment I felt an ancient presence rise in my heart, and in my fingertips the unwinding spiral of joy. Pilgrimage as Art

This is the path that The Art of Pilgrimage follows, one carved out by the simple beauty of a handful of practices, tasks and exercises that pilgrims, sojourners, and explorers of all kinds

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have used for millennia. In each of us dwells a wanderer, a gypsy, a pilgrim. The purpose here is to call forth that spirit. What matters most on your journey is how deeply you see, how attentively you hear, how richly the encounters are felt in your heart and soul. Kabir wrote, “If you have not experienced something, then for you it is not real.” So it is with pilgrimage, which is the art of movement, the poetry of motion, the music of personal experience of the sacred in those places where it has been known to shine forth. If we are not astounded by these possibilities, we can never plumb the depths of our own souls or the soul of the world. Whether we are on vacation, a business trip, or a far-flung adventure tour, we can look at the trying times along the road as either torment or chances to “stretch” ourselves. But what do we do if we feel a need for something more out of our journeys than the perennial challenges and pleasure of travel? What happens if the search for the new is no longer enough? What if our heart aches for a kind of journey that defies explanation? Centuries of travel lore suggest that when we no longer know where to turn, our real journey has just begun. At that crossroads moment, a voice calls to our pilgrim soul. The time has come to set out for the sacred ground—the mountain, the temple, the ancestral home— that will stir our heart and restore our sense of wonder. It is down the path to the deeply real where time stops and we are seized by the mysteries. This is the journey we cannot not take. April, 2011

P i l gr i m a ge Tr a v e l i n t h e 21s t C e nt ur y

The pilgrim’s motives have always been manifold: to pay homage, to fulfill a vow or obligation, to do penance, to be rejuvenated spiritually, or feel the release of catharsis. The journeys all begin in a nervous state, in deep disturbance. Something vital was missing in life: Vitality itself may be lurking on the road or at the heart of a distant sanctuary. The ritual act of pilgrimage attempts to fill that emptiness. It can happen halfway around the world, as it did with a very kind priest I know—Father Theodore Walters of Toledo, Ohio, who began leading groups to the Marian Shrine at Medjugorjje, Yugoslavia, because he believed that modern people desperately needed “a healing vision from the Mother of God.” He also confessed that he believed a war-battered country might need the kindness people on pilgrimage convey from the sheer gratitude brimming in their hearts. Sacred &Personal Tours The Purpose of Pilgrim’s Journey

Imagine your first memorable journey. What images rise up in your soul? They may be of a childhood visit to the family gravesite, the lecture your uncle gave at a famous battlefield, or the hand-in-hand trip with your mother to a religious site. What feelings are evoked by your enshrined travel memories? According to the dictionary, the word pilgrimage derives from the Latin peligrinus, meaning foreigner or wayfarer. It refers to the journey of a person who travels to a shrine or holy place.

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Pilgrimage can also occur just down the road, as it did to a married couple I met briefly, who had reached an imase in their creative endeavors. They said they had lost their voice and needed “to hear the voice of commitment to words again.” In response, they decided to reinvigorate their love of literature by traveling to the poet Robinson Jeffers’ stone house in Carmel, California. My old friend Michael Jajuga was under so much stress in medical school that once a month he would rejuvenate himself in what he called his “nature pilgrimages.” He would drive all night in his 1970 Challenger into the woods of northern Michigan so

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What unites the different forms of pilgrimage is intensity of intention, the soul’s desire to respond to return to the center, whether it portends ecstasy or agony. What makes a pilgrimage sacred is the longing behind the journey, reminiscent of the famous sixteenth-century woodcut of the Pilgrim Astronomer, who pikes his head through a slit in the dome of the sky so that he might gaze at the machinery behind the sun, stars and moon and so unveil the mysteries of creation. (Extract from ‘The Art of Pilgrimage’)

he could go trout fishing for a few hours before returning home. That brief contact was his “golden time,” he used to say—his sacred time. Participation can be communal, as was China Galland’s march with a million other pilgrims to the Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa in Jasna Gora Monastery, Poland. Or it may be solitary, as with the World War II pilot I met in Tokyo in the mid-1980s, who had just returned from a sorrowful visit to ground zero in Hiroshima.

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By Phil Cousineau Phil Cousineau is an award-winning writer and filmmaker, teacher and editor, lecturer and travel leader, storyteller and TV host. His books include Stoking the Creative Fires, Once and Future Myths, The Art of Pilgrimage, The Olympic Odyssey, The Hero's Journey, and Wordcatcher. Phil also led the Land of Myth & Mystery journey to Ireland organized by Sacred Earth Journeys last September. http://philcousineau.net http://www.sacredearthjourneys.ca

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P i l gr i m a ge Tr a v e l i n t h e 21s t C e nt ur y

Favorite French Pilgrimage Destinations: Lourdes and La Salette The word “pilgrim” immediately conjures up images of travel, but it goes far beyond that. Since the word first appeared in the western vocabulary of 14th century Europe, it has been associated with a sense of purpose, a commitment not just to wander through life but to focus, a wake-up call that may lead to positive change. Most of all, it has meant sacrifice, not just of time and money to reach the pilgrimage destination, but hardship to the human body and mental wellbeing. Reaching the destination was seldom easy, requiring weeks, months, even years away from family, community, livelihood … no jetting across oceans or continents in a matter of hours nor driving comfortably to a pre-booked pilgrim hotel, reservations secured by credit card! In the 21st century, the world feels just as strongly about pilgrimage travel as it ever has, but have the motivations changed as much as the style? Even with deep economic recessions and readily-accessible medical care in most western nations to cure our ailments, pilgrimage travel holds steady among the alreadyfaithful and those who search for meaning and new directions in their lives. Partly because the rigors and dangers of pilgrimage travel have been drastically reduced and partly because older people have the time, money, good health and compelling urge to explore April, 2011

Yearly from March to October the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes is a place of pilgrimage for Europeans and others from around the world. Photo credit: Alison Gardner

the world, men and women age 45 and better make up the vast majority of pilgrim travelers, whether doing so independently or in groups of varying sizes.

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Being married to a devout Catholic while I myself am an Evangelical Christian, I have had the pleasure of visiting several Catholic pilgrimage sites in Europe. We lived in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina for two years, only 45 minutes from Medjugorje, visited annually by one million of the Catholic faithful and the spiritually curious since 1980. Despite the numbers, the still-small town with no high-rise hotels or fast-food outlets is a cheerful, unhurried, accommodating experience where fellow pilgrims strike up conversations with strangers and spontaneously share a restaurant table or a countryside hike up one of the challenging apparition mountains. Longer established, larger and more commercially sophisticated is Lourdes at the foot of the French Pyrenees. Yearly from March to October the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes is a high-profile place of pilgrimage with an estimated 200 million visitors since 1860. With an incredible weekly roster of activities, services and meetings, there are information centers and armies of volunteers who work diligently to make the individual or group pilgrim experience a lifetime memory. Rotating through different languages at different times, church services are laced with spine-tingling choir singing, but there are also riverside and hillside walks to offset the inten-

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Open all year except November, the shrine of La Salette is located in a high alpine pasture at an altitude of 6,000 feet, about 9 miles from the nearest town. Photo credit: Alison Gardner

Evening candlelight processions wind along paths from the Basilica to the Valley of the Apparitions. Photo credit: Alison Gardner

sity of the more focused timetables. Again, a peaceful, cooperative atmosphere among residents and perfect strangers is an essential feature of this bustling but walkable town, even if there are too many souvenir shops to qualify as an exclusively spiritual experience. However, I truly lost my heart to the mountaintop pilgrim shrine of La Salette in the French Alps (Sacred-destinations.com/france/ la-salette-shrine) hardly known compared with Medjugorje and Lourdes. It has only a couple of hundred visitors at once for the very good reason that the only place to stay is the efficiently-

run retreat center, booked months in advance. After a two hour drive or a public bus ride out of Grenoble on narrow road with dozens of tight hairpin curves, you arrive in dazzling natural surroundings with no town, no shops, an imposing stone basilica (built 1852-65) and a modern chapel, a visitor center staffed by welcoming volunteers and a modern hostel for pilgrims to stay and eat cafeteria-style at shared tables. The majority of guests are from France, Poland and Italy, but English is also spoken. Apart from the daily schedule of spiritual experiences, what makes you go "Wow!"

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many times throughout a visit is layer upon layer of mountain ranges, the perpetual tinkling bells of sheep in tiny green fields that sweep down from the pilgrimage site, and dozens of well-worn ridge-top hiking trails straight out of the opening scenes of The Sound of Music. When we booked this piece of heaven for three nights, all the double "cells" were taken, so we happily booked two single cells on opposite sides of our hallway. In each small, immaculate room was a surprisingly comfortable single bed (no suffering there), wardrobe, desk and chair, and a sink, towels and mirror. Down the hall was a large bathroom of shared toilets and showers. We paid under $40 each for three meals a day and accommodation, surely a bargain in either the spiritual or secular world!

By Alison Gardner Editor/journalist, Alison Gardner, is a global expert on nature-based vacations and cultural/educational travel. Her Travel with a Challenge web magazine, is a recognized source of new and established operators, accommodations and richly-illustrated feature articles covering all types of senior-friendly alternative travel. http://www.travelwithachallenge.com

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Faith Tourism in Armenia: Monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin Christianity played a crucial role in the development of Armenian art and architecture. The “classic” style developed in the 5th-7th centuries, but its further evolution came to an abrupt halt with the Arab occupation that began at the end of the 7th century. Armenia became independent again at the end of the 9th century and Armenian art was revived when the kingdom was consolidated and national identity re-established. In this period two Byzantine monasteries were built – the monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin. They were important centers of learning, housing some 500 monks, and bear eloquent testimony to the highest achievement of Armenian architecture. Today they are visited by hundreds of tourists and pilgrims eager to see and explore the two monasteries inscribed on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List. “People are often surprised by the majestic and severe architecture of the monasteries. They are truly impressive,” said Vrezh, a tour guide of AdvenTour, that organizes tours around Armenia and Georgia. Both monasteries are exceptional examples of the 'domed hall' ecclesiastical architecture that developed in Armenia from the 10th to the 13th centuries, which blended elements of both Byzantine church architecture and the April, 2011

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traditional vernacular building style of this region. “We were fortunate that in Haghpat, the priest gave us an expert and well-informed tour,” said John from UK who joined the AdvenTour’s tour Best of Armenia last year. “It was a unique opportunity. We wish we had had more knowledge of the history of these places,” he added. The construction of the main church of the large fortified monastic complex of Haghpat, dedicated to the Holy Cross, began in 966-67 and was completed in 991. The central dome rests on the four massive pillars in the side walls. The external walls are almost entirely covered by triangular niches. The apse contains a fresco of Christ Pantocrator. The building is complete and in its original form, apart from some 11th- and 12th-century restorations, includes a large gavit through which access is gained to the church. The plan of the gavit, built in the second decade of the 13th century, differs markedly in style from the main church. A large narthex-type building used for meetings, teaching and funerary rituals is based on vernacular architecture in wood, with the roof supported on four pillars in the centre of the structure. The Sanahin Monastery consists of a large group of buildings on the plateau above the Debet gorge. It is skillfully integrated into the impressive mountain landscape. The buildings are laid out on two rectangular axes, with their facades facing west.

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dome. This is the earliest known example of this type of structure, which owes its origins to Armenian peasant dwellings consisting of square rooms with four free-standing pillars supporting the roof and a central hole to allow smoke to be dispersed. The Church of the Mother of God (Astvatzatzin), located to the north of the cathedral and connected with it by means of an openended vaulted passage, is the oldest building in the complex, built in 934 by monks fleeing from Byzantium. The large library (scriptorium), built in 1063, is square in plan and vaulted, with ten niches of varying sizes in which codices and books were stored. At the south-eastern corner of the library is to be found the small church dedicated to St Gregory the Illuminator. The 11th-century Academy of Gregory Magistros is located between the two main churches. The deep niches along the walls and the abundance of light give this building an exceptional spatial quality. The cemetery, located to the south-east of the main buildings, contains the late 12thcentury mausoleum of the Zakarian princes. The main church, built in the 10th century, is the Cathedral of the Redeemer. The emphasis of the cross-shaped interior is on the central nucleus and the harmony between the square base and the circular dome. The central dome in this case is surrounded by four two-storey sacristies or chapels. To the west there is a four-columned gavit built in 1181. Its plan is that of a cross inscribed in a square. Lighting is by means of an aperture in the centre of the

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By AdvenTour AdvenTour is the pioneer of experiential travel in Armenia and the Caucasus. They create original travel experiences that provide real-life interaction with the colorful region and its people. Whether it's a classical sightseeing or a more active exploration, the traveles get up close and personal with places they are exploring. More information about their tours at http://www.caucasusexplorer.com. http://www.caucasusexplorer.com

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P i l gr i m a ge Tr a v e l i n t h e 21s t C e nt ur y

Develop Your Own Pilgrimage Tourism Pilgrimage tourism may be one of the earliest and most important forms of tourism. Faith based tourism exists throughout the world, from India to Mexico, from Israel to Saudi Arabia. From Biblical times pilgrimages have not only been calls to spirituality but also major economic drivers that impact not only the soul but also the pocketbook. The Bible speaks of ascending to Jerusalem at least three times a year for each of the Biblical harvest festivals. Likewise the Islamic world is famous for the Hajj or pilgrimage to Mecca. Cities, Temples and … Lenin

For many millennia people have made pilgrimages to cities, shrines, rivers, mountains. Cities around the world have developed religious tourism not only at their main centers but also in places where miracles have been reported such as in Fatima in Portugal and Lourdes in France. Furthermore, while pilgrimages are usually associated with religious events or locations, they may also come in the form of visits to places where political events have occurred, burial sites of political leaders, or famous monuments. For example, during the Communist period of Russian history there, millions of people made a pilgrimage to Lenin’s tomb and in the USA millions visit the monuments that punctuate Washington, DC April, 2011

Pilgrimage tourism in many ways parallels other forms of event tourism. While some form of spirituality, wish for divine healing or thankfulness inspires the trip, in many ways these pilgrimages also reflect many of the characteristics of other forms of tourism venues. A visitor to any of these religious sites will quickly note that in the modern world of pilgrimage tourism (and from what we can learn from ancient texts, also in the ancient world) the places produce secondary industries. Be these, the souvenir industry or the lodging industry, a series of dependent industries quickly develop around the site. Spiritual or Cognitive Travelers?

Secondly, just as in some many other forms of tourism, the visitor (pilgrim) must be a believer in the narrative. Thirdly there is a difference between a pilgrimage, whose primary basis is faith-oriented, and a trip in which the person’s primary purpose is other then the spiritual narrative. These people may be classified as pilgrimage based tourism but they are not spiritual pilgrims. Thus, entering into the world of religious pilgrimage sites is an exercise in spiritual emotion rather than cognition. While all pilgrimages are faith-based travel, not all faith-based tourism is pilgrimages. Faith based travel may take place for life cycle events, for missionary work or humanitarian

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interest projects and for religious conventions and conclaves. Although from a social psychology viewpoint pilgrimages are based on emotion, faith-based tourism is big business. To help you deal with this growing travel trend. Here are some essentials to help the busy travel and tourism professional. Pilgrimages Are Often Big Business

It is estimated that in the US alone some 25% of the traveling public is interested in some form of pilgrimage or faith-based tourism. When one adds to this the number of people who travel for faith-based conventions, and faith based activities such as weddings, bar mitzvahs or funerals, the number becomes extraordinarily large. World Religious Travel is one of the fastest growing segments in travel today. Religious travel is estimated at a value of US$18 billion and 300 million travelers strong. Major faith based destinations such as Israel, Italy and Saudi Arabia have developed large

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P i l gr i m a ge Tr a v e l i n t h e 21s t C e nt ur y

industries that provide services for people on pilgrimage. Group or Individual Tourism

Pilgrimages may occur as a form of group or individual tourism. Especially among young people (who compose about one third of the faith-based visitors) there are a great number of people who seek spiritual aspects to their vacations. Think through what areas of your community offer a chance to increase selfawareness or spirituality. Less Threatened by Economic Crisis

Pilgrimage travel is often less prone to economic ups and downs in the market place. Because faith-based travelers are committed travelers they tend to save for these religious experiences and travel despite the state of the economy. Faith travelers tend to have different motives for travel then do travelers for other reasons. For example, the faith-based traveler often travels as part of a religious obligation or to fulfill a spiritual mission. Faith-based travel can provide a steady flow of income to a local tourism economy. All Ages and All Nationalities

The pilgrimage and faith based market has the advantage of appealing to people from around the world, of all ages and of all nationalities. Tourism and travel professionals should be aware that this market might well double by the year 2020. To add to this number many faith-based travelers prefer to travel in groups rather than as individuals. April, 2011

Be Sensitive to Religious Needs

Develop Your Faith-Based Tourism

Religiously aware professionals will do best with this market. From airlines to hotels, those travel and tourism professionals who are sensitive to religious needs are going to do better. Among the things to consider are types of food served, types of music played and when activities take place. As in other forms of tourism it is essential to know your market. For example, airlines that do not offer vegetarian meals may lose a portion of the faith-based market whose religion has specific food restrictions.

A recent study reported by the Associate Press found that in the Judeo-Christian world Israel is the number one preference of faithbased travelers followed by Italy and then England; however, faith-based tourism does not have to be built around a classical pilgrimage site. There is no doubt that it helps to have a major religious center, such as Jerusalem, Mecca, or Rome most locales will never have such holy sites. Lack of a religious center does not mean however that a location can-

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communities to develop an overall faith based product rather than a mishmash of unrelated offerings. Resources for Religious Tourism

not develop faith-based tourism. Florida has created its own Bible land, and multiple cities around the world have found ways to incorporate religious holidays into their tourism product. Coordinate with Pilgrim’s Needs

Support industries must coordinate with the pilgrimage cycle and needs. All too often the spirituality that visitors seek is lost at the level of supporting industries. During faith based tourism periods it is essential that hotels and restaurants connect with the arts and cultural

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Be aware of new and exciting resources for pilgrimage and faith-based travel. For examples the website Grouple.com has a whole section dedicated to religious travel. Major religious institutions also maintain travel centers for people of their faith. Another inspiration for pilgrimages may be called the anti-faith based traveler. For example, the fictional works of J. K. Rowling’ Harry Potter, Dan Brown’s Da Vinci Code, Shakespeare’s plays – have all created pilgrimages.

By Dr. Peter E. Tarlow Dr. Peter E. Tarlow is the president of Tourism & More Inc, located in College Station, Texas, USA. He can be reached at his email address ptarlow@tourismandmore.com or by telephone at +1-979-764-8402. http://www.tourismandmore.com

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Via Francigena – Walking Europe’s Oldest Pilgrimage Trail For centuries, people from all “walks of life” regardless of their religious or spiritual leanings, have been making pilgrimages to sacred places. For nearly as long, Christian pilgrims, rich, poor, and sometimes famous from throughout Europe have used a network of paths to journey to Rome, called the Via Francigena. The Via Francigena is Europe’s oldest cultural trade route dating back more than 2,000 years. In Italy it is an elusive network of trails of ancient Roman roads and medieval paths that wind their way from Switzerland to Rome for 1,000 km. Unlike its counterpart, the ever-popular Camino de Santiago in Spain, the Via Francigena in Italy, remains barely known. However, this is quickly changing as modern day pilgrims equipped with new guidebooks, trail maps and GPS devices are rediscovering the Via Francigena. Via Francigena Sign on Route Napoleon – Switzerland

Winding from the Alps to Rome

What makes the Via Francigena extraordinary, apart from its religious and spiritual importance as a Christian pilgrim trail, is that it crosses through six separate regions from northern to central Italy. From Gran San Bernardo high in the Swiss/Italian Alps, the Via Francigena descends into the distinct French April, 2011

speaking Valle d Aosta, and through the rice capitals of Europe, Piedmont and Lombardy, and meat and cheese heartland of EmiliaRomagna. It then slowly climbs the Apennines Mountains, entering the tiny district of Lunigiana of northern Tuscany. It continues south

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through undulating hills of vineyards and wheat fields, pass the medieval towns of Lucca and Siena, before entering Lazio, a prehistoric volcanic homeland of the original Italians, the Etruscans, before finally reaching the Italian capital of Rome.

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P i l gr i m a ge Tr a v e l i n t h e 21s t C e nt ur y

While some sections of the trail have been lost to modern highways and thus re-routed, other segments include old cobble-stoned Roman roads and gravelly medieval paths and dirt farm tracks that bypass Etruscan and Roman ruins and hilltop towns. The trail weaves throughout famous Roman and medieval towns such as Aosta, Pavia, Piacenza, San Miniato, San Gimignano, and Viterbo where you can wander through many of the grand medieval churches and cathedrals, and gaze upon many of the ancient castles and forts. Finding the Pilgrim’s Way

Navigating an elusive trail in modern day Italy does require an understanding of the nuances and challenges – something modern day pilgrims need to appreciate. When my wife and I walked the trail back in 2008, there were few good guidebooks, and none in English. Today, there is not only an excellent English guidebook (and another on its way), but two different Italian guidebooks, and one in French and one in German. There are also free downloadable road books (in Italian only for now), maps, and even GPS coordinates for the techie pilgrim types. Signage remains a problem in some sections especially along the Po River, the country’s longest waterway that divides northern and central Italy, and the region that produces most of the rice consumed by Europeans. Thus being equipped with a good guidebook and basic understanding of Italian is wise. Even though the Italian state government has spearheaded a campaign to install official signs along the April, 2011

Quart Castle – Valle d Aosta

entire route, they have left it up to the 139 local community authorities to carry out the task. Sleeping in Monasteries

Affordable accommodation is sometimes challenging but a network of religious accommodations offer inexpensive rooms with

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breakfast to bonafide pilgrims, an opportunity to sleep in thousand-year-old abbeys and monasteries. For those looking for something more upscale, staying in family run pensions or bed & breakfasts or the occasional agriturismo is an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture, taste some of Italy’s fine cuisine, and meet some very hospitable locals. There is even the chance to sleep in an ancient castle.

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This said, state and local authorities continue to make investments in improved signage and accommodation that will assist walkers in their journey. In summary, the Via Francigena provides an exceptional opportunity to experience the contemporary culture, intricate cuisine, and rich history of Italy, one footstep at a time. Moreover, it is one of the world’s important religious and spiritual modern-day Christian pilgrimages. And it is still yours to discover.

Monteriggioni Italy

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By Neville J Tencer Neville J Tencer is co-author of An Italian Odyssey: One Couple’s Culinary & Cultural Pilgrimage. To learn more, please visit www.verderamedia.com http://www.verderamedia.com

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Travel to Mother Earth’s Sacred Places

From ancient stone circles and jungle-tangled pyramids to gothic cathedrals and mountaintop shrines, sacred places attract us with a mysterious power. Since the beginning of time, April, 2011

people have been visiting sacred sites for healing, inspiration and guidance. Mainstream western scientists may scoff at suggestions that water from holy wells can cure illnesses

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or that ancient megaliths can deliver messages from the spirit world, but the concept of powerful places has been known to many cultures for thousands of years. The First Pilgrimages

The oldest known pilgrimage site is Mount Kailash in Tibet, which has been a holy travel destination for an incomprehensible 15,000 years. Walking the 32-mile trail around Kailash takes about three days, at altitudes as high as 18,000 feet. Buddhists say the ritual circumambulation erases the sins of one lifetime, and 108 times around the mountain will enable you to reach Nirvana. The first Christian pilgrim was Helena, the mother of the emperor of Constantine. She toured the holy land in 326 c.e. and identified (not necessarily accurately) many of the sites associated with Jesus. By the Middle Ages, when Chaucer wrote his Canterbury Tales, pilgrims who couldn’t manage the long voyage to Jerusalem could still do penance or seek cures by visiting shrines devoted to the various saints. The Benedictine monastery in Montserrat, Spain attracted 50,000 pilgrims per year during the Middle Ages, and today it draws about 60,000 visitors, eager to see the image of the Virgin Mary said to have been carved by Saint Luke. North Americans don’t have to go overseas to find places known for miracles. In Chimayó, New Mexico there is an adobe chapel where 2,000 believers congregate each Good Friday, and 300,000 pilgrims come every year. In a small room at the back of the chapel, known

as the “Room of Miracles”, is a hole in the floor through which people scoop out sand, said to have curative properties. The walls of the room are lined with hundreds of letters and pictures from visitors thankful for the healing they say they received. Even closer to home is Lac Ste. Anne, about 70 km west of Edmonton, where last July’s annual pilgrimage drew 40,000 visitors, largely First Nations, to pray, sing and seek comfort. Although no actual miracles have been reported at the lake, participants describe feeling more calm and content, with their spirits renewed. Visitors to many sacred places come away feeling inspired, with a greater sense of purpose. For millennia it was customary for North American native youth to go on vision quests to powerful places. After receiving instructions from a shaman, medicine man or wise woman, young people would go, alone, to mountains, canyons, caves or other sites where they would await visitations from the spirits. Rock paintings with images of spirit visions can still be found along the Stein River valley near Lillooet, BC, a popular destination for hikers from Vancouver. Bizarre Stories in Cornwall

Much more unusual sacred places are fogous (FOO-goos.) These curious stone tunnels are unique to Cornwall, in the southwestern tip of England. Some people who go into fogous experience headaches, dizziness, messages from spirit guides or a distorted sense of space. One artist sketching inside Carn Euny fogou suddenly became aware she was being April, 2011

ETHICAL

P i l gr i m a ge Tr a v e l i n t h e 21s t C e nt ur y

watched by an Iron-age woman. A visitor who tried to enter Boleigh fogou said she found her path blocked by boulders which do not exist. One of the strangest first-hand reports about a sacred place this writer has ever heard took place in the Peruvian Andes. A woman from Olympia, Washington told me she was walking across the main plaza of Machu Picchu when a large spacecraft-like object materialized in front of her. An extra-terrestrial being emerged from the silver ship and sent her a telepathic message of profound, unconditional love. Neither Andrea’s husband nor the other members

of her group saw what she did, but they agree the experience had a profound impact on her. Now a Reiki Grand Master, she describes her life as divided into two parts: before and after Peru. Sedona, Arizona has been a pilgrimage destination since prehistoric times. Not only the local Hopi and Navajo, but natives from as far as Canada and Central America would journey there for healing and learning long before Europeans invaded North America. Sedona’s dramatically-shaped red sandstone rocks are said to emit powerful energy partly because

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ETHICAL

of their high concentration of magnetic iron. Sandstone is also rich in quartz, the mineral from which computer chips are made. Added to these geological forces is the human factor. Sedona was settled by aboriginals from the four sacred directions: Apache from the East, the ancestors of the Hopi from the South, Yavapai from the West and Athabascans from the North. This seems to be the way with many pilgrimage sites. They were first identified as places of natural earth energy. In time, the land was developed by adding monoliths, stone circles, shrines, cathedrals etc. Over the centuries, as people gathered to celebrate or worship at the places, they added their own human energies, which continue to accumulate and mingle with earth energies. Prepare for the Sacred Journey

For every bizarre story you hear about unusual happenings at sacred places, there are thousands of disappointed souls who go on pilgrimages hoping for miracles that never happen. This writer confesses to being a little jealous after I went to the same plaza in Machu Picchu where my friend Andrea had her close encounter with ETs and I only saw tourists. One reason why so many pilgrimages fizzle out may be lack of preparation. Without going overboard, there are several practical steps you can take to make your pilgrimage experience more meaningful. First, do your homework. Learn about the history and folklore associated with a place. One of

April, 2011

the reasons I was moved to tears in Canterbury Cathedral is probably because I had first read Becket. Next, approach sacred places with humility. Instead of barging into a stone circle, stop outside and ask the genus loci for permission before you enter. Know your reason for going. If some entity were to ask “Why have you come here?” how would you answer? Open your mind and heart to the spirit of a place. Meditate, or at least take time to absorb whatever energies might be there. Dr. Jean Shinoda Bolen, author of Crossing to Avalon and Goddesses in Everywoman, recommends that visitors go to sacred sites “with an attitude like the Fool in the Tarot deck. You have to suspend your own critical attitude which usually prevents you from acting foolish and be free to do whatever you are moved to do, whether it be picking up a certain stone,

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P i l gr i m a ge Tr a v e l i n t h e 21s t C e nt ur y

singing, doing a ritual, walking around in a certain way or lying on the ground.” Openness to synchronicity is also important. Self-discovery is, of course, the ultimate goal of any spiritual pursuit. All transformation must come from within, and pilgrimage is just one of many routes you can take to get there. But if doing yoga or Tao Chi seems less appropriate to your spirit than going on a Goddess tour of Turkey, then follow the path that feels best for you. In the end, all spiritual roads lead to the same destination, an idea beautifully summarized by T.S. Eliot in his Four Quartets: “And the end of all our exploring, Will be to arrive where we started, And know the place for the first time.” By Robert Scheer Robert Scheer is a freelance writer whose work includes travel writing and photography, public relations, web design and content providing. He is a member of the B.C. Association of Travel Writers and former president of the B.C. chapter of the Travel Media Association of Canada. For more than two years he published and edited the travel magazine Power Trips. Sacred Earth Journeys is a Vancouver, B.C. company specializing Sacred Journeys, Wellness Travel, Yoga Tours & Retreats, and Wisdom Teachings. Join them for a life-changing spiritual journey to Egypt, India, Thailand, Ireland, Greece, Mexico, Peru and more! Please visit their website at www.sacredearthjourneys.ca, email info@sacredearthjourneys.ca, or phone (604) 874-7922 or Toll Free 1-877-874-7922.

TRANSPORT T o p I n n o vati v e Ai r l i n e s

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Top I nnov a t i v e A i r l i ne s

Condor to Launch Wireless In-flight Entertainment System German holiday carrier Condor will become the first airline to install Lufthansa Systems’ new BoardConnect wireless in-flight entertainment (IFE) system on its Boeing 767 aircraft. Unlike conventional wired IFE systems, BoardConnect is essentially an intranet on a plane that replaces the several kilometers of cables, that are usually needed to connect every single seat, with a wireless network that allows passengers to connect to content on an onboard server with their own laptops, smart phones or tablet PCs. Alternatively, integrated seat-back screens or mobile devices provided by the airline can be used to access the Wi-Fi network.

Condor, however, will only offer wireless IFE to access the ‘walled garden’ content available on the onboard server. Weight Savings

According to Lufthansa Systems, a subsidiary of the Lufthansa Group, the elimination of wiring and data distribution hardware could lead

Walled Garden

Passengers logging on to the wireless IFE system are shown a startpage that lists the available IFE programming, which can be fully branded and customized by the airline. BoardConnect uses standard software solutions. For example, multimedia content is served up via Microsoft Silverlight, a browser plug-in which comes pre-installed on most new devices. For iPhone, iPad or Android users, apps are being developed that will be available on the Apple App Store and the Android Marketplace. If an aircraft is also equipped with broadband access to the wider Internet, passengers can also surf and send and receive e-mails while in the air. April, 2011

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to weight savings of almost half a ton on a 767, reducing annual fuel consumption by around 20 tonnes per aircraft. The savings are even greater if no seat-back screens are installed, which is increasingly becoming an option as more and more passengers bring their own Internet-enabled devices on board. Lufthansa Systems says that thanks to the minimal instal-

TRANSPORT

lation effort (as no wiring is required) its BoardConnect solution is also interesting for smaller aircraft such as the A320 and B737, which fly medium-haul routes and generally offer very limited IFE options. Condor

Lufthansa Systems expects the wireless IFE system to be available on the first Condor B767 by summer 2011. It is unknown at this point what kind of wireless device Condor, a whollyowned subsidiary of travel giant Thomas Cook, will rent out to passengers and to what extent the content on offer can be accessed for free. A likely offer, however, will be a combination of free and paid premium content. For Condor, the wireless IFE is a relatively cheap upgrade of its current IFE offering which consists of movies shown on an overhead screen, while portable DVD players are handed out in Comfort Class. Says Rainer Kröpke, Head of Marketing at Condor, “In-flight entertainment is an important part of the travel experience and a way to April, 2011

Top I nnov a t i v e A i r l i ne s

stand out from the competition, particularly in the tourism industry.” Wireless IFE

As Flightglobal reports, the concept of wireless IFE is not new, although it has yet to be implemented in commercial aircraft. Boeing, for instance, originally planned to offer wireless IFE on its 787 Dreamliner. Panasonic Avionics and Thales were successful in developing wireless systems for the 787 from a technical standpoint, but wireless distribution required too much sacrifice in functionality and didn’t achieve the desired weight savings, so Boeing ultimately decided to offer wired in-seat IFE to 787 customers. Besides Lufthansa Systems’ BoardConnect, aircraft manufacturers such as Airbus and Bombardier are currently also studying wireless in-flight entertainment systems. http://www.airlinetrends.com

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www.caucasusexplorer.com

TRANSPORT

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Spanair Taps Demographics to Deliver Holiday Surprise 7,000 users have shared it in Facebook and Twitter. The Data

Shackleton segmented passengers into one of 12 groups based on customer data from Spanair. Each group received a different gift based on age, sex and professional status. The Channel

The group filmed the event and then placed video and images showing how the campaign took shape onto YouTube, Facebook and Twitter.

About Spanair Spanair S.A., a Spanish airline was founded in December of 1986. Spanair began operations with its international charter flights at the end of March 1988, carrying tourists to Spain from more than 100 European airports. Since then more than 104* million passengers have flown with Spanair. In February of 1994 Spanair began its domestic scheduled operation within Spain, while at the same time establishing its ground personnel service system. At present, 87% of the company’s flights are scheduled, while the remaining 13% are split between Charter and other operations. Spanair.com

The Creative The Offer

Spanish airline Spanair surprised nearly 200 passengers on one of its flights from Barcelona to the Canary Islands as part of its “Unexpected Luggage” campaign, developed by Shackleton. While waiting for their luggage at close to midnight on Christmas Eve, all 190 passengers onboard saw individually wrapped gifts come out of the luggage carousel. The campaign has become a hit in Internet and social media. In 48 hours, the video that shows the Christmas campaign has received more than 100,000 views and more than April, 2011

Creative is composed almost entirely of unstaged displays of surprise and delight among passengers at the time of the event,

edited into video bites and images of passengers displaying their gifts. The Verdic

Hats off to Spanair who took “surprise and delight” to a new level this past Christmas Eve. By focusing on the customer experience, they let the consumer carry forward the brand via word-of-mouth and viral buzz. With a stronger PR component, we can only imagine how far the message could have gone. By Kevin McKeefery http://www.dmnews.com

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Top I nnov a t i v e A i r l i ne s

Malaysia Airlines: Booking, Check-in and Sharing through Facebook Malaysia Airlines further re-affirmed its leadership as a social media innovator with the launch of MHbuddy on Facebook. The application which can be accessed from the new Malaysia Airlines Facebook page, allows Facebook’s 500 million users to book and check-in for a flight while sharing their trip details with their social network. Developed with Malaysia Airlines by SITA Lab, the research group of air transport IT provider SITA, MHbuddy is an application on Facebook Platform that allows passengers to book and check-in for a flight while sharing their trip details with their friends. Malaysia Airlines Executive Vice President Commercial Strategy, Dr. Amin Khan said: “Our customers are spending more and more time on social networks and Malaysia Airlines is one of the most active airlines using social media to drive revenue. We have over 380,000 fans who actively engage with us on our existing social media channels.” “The introduction of MHbuddy really takes flight bookings to another level. Besides opening up another distribution channel for ticket sales, now, our customers can also experience amazing convenience. At the same time, they can stay connected with their friends,” he said. Amin acknowledged that a few airlines are already selling tickets on Facebook. However, April, 2011

he quipped, “No other airline allows its customers to integrate their travels so deeply into the Facebook social graph. Neither do they allow customers to check-in via Facebook.” “With MHbuddy, customers who book a flight are reminded of their friends who live at

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the destination they are headed for. They are also prompted if any of their friends on the Facebook network are also planning to travel to the same destination. If they like, they can also share their itinerary with friends,” said Amin.

TRANSPORT

In addition, MHbuddy users can check in via Facebook and select their seats. During seat selection, they will also be able to view the seats of their friends who are travelling on the same flight. This gives MHbuddy users a really easy and convenient way to connect with their friends when they travel on Malaysia Airlines, wherever they are. Speaking at Innovation in Airline Distribution 2011 in London, Jim Peters, SITA Chief Technology Officer who heads up the SITA Lab, said: “SITA has always focused on technological innovation that the air transport industry and passengers want. This is another example of how we are enhancing the travel experience for passengers and giving them applications that are relevant to the way they live their lives. This initiative is a great step forward and gives Facebook users the opportunity to do what Facebook does best – keeping in touch and sharing life experiences with friends. SITA

April, 2011

Lab is delighted to work with Malaysia Airlines to offer this ground-breaking service.” Since its establishment three years ago, SITA Lab has delivered numerous innovations, several of which were developed with Malaysia Airlines including the world's first kiosks to sell airline tickets using the Apple iPad and an augmented reality application for the Apple iPhone to allow customers to pick up the best airline deals from nearby airports. In 2009, the airline launched the hugely popular MHmobile which enables travelers to book flights and access up to date travel information while on the move. In 2010, Malaysia Airlines was recognized for its active engagement on Social Media by winning the "Best Use of Social Media to Drive Revenue" award at the inaugural Simpliflying-Airline Business Social Media Excellence Awards for Airlines. http://www.malaysiaairlines.com

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Top I nnov a t i v e A i r l i ne s

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Top I nnov a t i v e A i r l i ne s

KLM Surprises Travelers to See ‘How Happiness Spreads’ Traveling by air can be stressful; you’re rushing to get things packed, leaving loved ones behind or maybe even ending a wonderful vacation. In November 2010 Dutch airline KLM started a new campaign to surprise travelers who check in on Foursquare, a location-based social networking website, with something personal that might make their travel a little less stressful. When someone checks in on Foursquare at one of KLM’s venues at Amsterdam Schipol Airport, their main hub, the airline’s KLM Surprise team goes to work. They do as much research as they can about the person using the infor-

Air New Zealand Fairy

After a trip to Canada, the Surprise Team awaited Theo at the gate with a hot cup of Dutch Douwe Egberts coffee and some fresh newspapers. It also gave KLM the opportunity to have a chat with this IT expert about the failing mobile boarding system. April, 2011

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A related ‘random act of kindness‘ initiative is the ‘Air New Zealand Fairy,’ a virtual fairy who once a day publicly grants a wish from an Air New Zealand customer. Customers of the airline can make wishes to the ‘Fairy’ via Twitter (being nice and creative helps) and hope that she will honour their request. Most wishes granted are related to the airline’s loyalty program, for example requests for a couple of hundred frequent flier points to make it to a next tier, but free lounge passes or seat upgrades are also given away. In a separate initiative, Air New Zealand also gives free admission to its lounge to foursquare users who are the ‘mayor’ of select airports and terminals served by the airline. Airlinetrends.com

TRANSPORT

Ed and his daughter came to pick up Ed’s Barcelona based brother, sister in law and their newborn daughter. This was their very first time to see the baby girl… Cute pink rompers and a cuddly toy did the trick. What a nice family picture!

mation they’ve posted publicly on Twitter and Facebook and find a gift that’s customized to that particular customer. They then attempt to make contact with the person through social networks and other means to meet up with them to deliver the gift. It’s clear the KLM team is really taking this to heart. One customer, Willem, was going to miss his team’s biggest soccer game of the year while on a trip to New York. KLM surprised him with a Lonely Planet guide to New York with the best soccer bars highlighted to make sure he wouldn’t miss the game. They found that another customer, Perry, was celebrating his birthday and surprised him with a birthday card and glass of champagne. The airline is using the KLM Surprise campaign as an experiment in using social networks and to see how their customers respond. They’re April, 2011

We surprised Linda just before she was leaving for Rome together with her mother. Rome is a very large city so there's a lot of distance to make. That shouldn't be any problem for Linda because she is a sporty person. That's why we gave her a Nike SportBand. With this she can monitor the distance while strolling around in Rome. Have fun with it, Linda!

closely monitoring tweets and Facebook posts about the campaign to see how “happiness spreads” and what kind of conversation develops around it. The promotion ran until the end of November. The airline says it may pop up again from time to time. Greeting your customers and thanking them for visiting your business after they’ve checked in is, of course, the best practice for any company using Foursquare, but KLM Surprise takes it to a whole new level. The personal touch that’s exhibited through each of the interactions shows that the KLM team is really looking to make peoples’ days while they’re traveling, and that goes a long way to “spreading happiness.” http://aboutfoursquare.com/klm-surprise/

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Top I nnov a t i v e A i r l i ne s

Destination Kazakhstan: Ancient and Poetic

Destination

Ka za k h s t a n: A nc i e nt a nd P oe t i c

Tourism in Kazakhstan – New Branding Strategy Needed Kazakhstan, the 9th largest country in the world, having a rich history of nomadic civilizations, a large natural diversity and being a part of the famous Silk Road, still attracts few tourists from around the world. How come? Challenges

The low number of visitors has clear reasons. First of all, Kazakhstan has two neighbors that are promoting their tourism offer quite effectively and have a very distinct brand: Uzbekistan, taking advantage of its rich past with historical and recently renovated Silk Road cities; and the smaller brother Kyrgyzstan, with the same nomadic past as Kazakhstan, and with an abundance of high mountains, lakes and preserved nomadic lifestyle. Both countries have managed to create a clear touristic brand and attract many foreign visitors. Kazakhstan lacks this distinct brand, has on offer ‘something of everything’, which should be translated into a new brand and a new branding strategy. Trends and Successes

The inbound tourism in Kazakhstan is on the rise, though slowly. To some extent this must be related to the growing publicity that the country is receiving due to its geopolitical position, with an abundance of oil and other natural resources. During the last five years a program to establish April, 2011

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Ka za k h s t a n: A nc i e nt a nd P oe t i c

mountains up to 7,000 meters in border areas with Kyrgyzstan, China and Russia; unusual rock formations in several parts of the country, including the very remote western peninsula of Mangyshlak; nomadic traditions in the villages and nomadic life in summer in the mountains; traces of the Silk Road and the Turkestan Mausoleum of Ahmed Khoja Yasawi in the south; rocky oasis and Soviet heritage in the center, including remnants of prisoner camps and nuclear test sites; the shrinking Aral Sea with its notorious ship graveyards and the Baikanur Cosmodrome in the center-west; the new capital Astana with its modern and outstanding architecture; the cultural centre Almaty with a skiing resort and surrounding varied landscapes… Wherever one travels in Kazakhstan, due to the small number of tourists and the vastness of the country, one cannot but feel like a pioneer – and a very welcomed pioneer. Future

What is needed to increase the volume of tourists to Kazakhstan? While we have focused on how to bring foreign visitors to Kazakhstan, the homestay opportunities across several parts of the country and in the vicinity of (potential) tourist destinations has been successful, giving tourists the opportunity to observe and take part in local Kazakh village life. In such a vast and empty land one cannot expect hotels everywhere, so this initiative is very welcome, in addition giving local communities a livelihood out of tourism. Therefore, programs that include these destinations are now on offer April, 2011

and welcome a growing number of visitors. Finally, it is important to observe that Almaty has the region’s most important international airport, with more and more international air companies offering flights for lower prices. Destinations

What exactly can a visitor expect to find in Kazakhstan? In general, something of everything; steppe almost everywhere, and high

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Ranking of the Tourism Potential in Kazakhstan Kazakhstan rated 93rd among 139 countries in the World Economic Forum’s ‘Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2011’. Russia was a leader among the CIS countries ranking 59 in the rating. It was followed by Georgia (73), Azerbaijan (83), Ukraine (85), Armenia (90), Kazakhstan (93), Moldova (99), Kyrgyzstan (107), and Tajikistan (118). En.trend.az

Destination

most important task for the Tourism Authorities would be to make the local population more interested in its lands and its past. More domestic visitors would greatly improve the facilities, helping to attract foreigners in the process. The Tourist Authorities should establish a new brand for Kazakhstan as a tourist destination; create a number of tours that relate to

April, 2011

this, and promote them heavily, with the aid of Kazakhstani and foreign tour operators and travel agencies. One would think that the diversity of Kazakhstan should be the essence of this new brand, incorporating in the (new) programs attractions like Astana with its architectural gems, Almaty and its cultural life, remnants of the Silk Road in the south, and of course the natural diversity of the country, including steppe, high mountains and mountain lakes, all of which can be found in both the Almaty and Altai region in relatively compact areas. But, we cannot omit mentioning the famous hospitality of the Kazakhs, preserved from times when denying a stranger a place to stay in ones yurt meant his or her death, and which can still be felt everywhere. These days Kazakhstan is a liberal country with a peaceful, harmonious blend of people and religions, both Asians and Europeans, Muslims and Christians. If nothing else, this should be the reason to make a visit. By Ardjan Langedijk Kazakhstan Tours, Heemstede, The Netherlands, tel. (++) 31 6 47 12 64 09 http://www.kazaktours.com

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Ka za k h s t a n: A nc i e nt a nd P oe t i c

Destination

Ka za k h s t a n: A nc i e nt a nd P oe t i c

Kazakhstan: Building the Tourism Infrastructure Excluding CIS countries*, China, Germany and Turkey were the leading arrival source countries in 2010. Currently, the majority of tourists from non CIS countries visit Kazakhstan for business purposes, as the country is a large oil, gas and natural mineral supplier. Business tourists create and maintain strong demand for high quality hotels, which resulted in the development of a significant number of 4- and 5-star hotels in the country over the last five years period. Despite the entrance of large hotel chains to the country, there still remains a shortage of more affordable but quality accommodation such as 3-star hotels. The void created by the lack of inexpensive and quality hotels in the country is being filled by rental apartments, that are especially popular among visitors from CIS countries. On the world’s tourism map Kazakhstan, despite its large size, is only a small spot as an incoming tourism destination. The majority of the country’s tourism sights and destinations suffer from little awareness, lack of infrastructure, limited accommodation availability, inconsistent service quality and pricing. However, with the country’s rapidly growing economic power this is starting to change as the tourism is benefiting from large government and private investments. April, 2011

In 2010 Kazakhstan was visited by more than 6 million arrivals, which was a 6% increase compared to 2009. The neighboring countries – Russia, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan – were the leading source of tourists accounting for more than 80% of all arrivals. The majority of trips by arrivals from these countries were not for traditional tourism purposes though, but for seeing relatives or friends, to seek employment, and for business purposes.

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2015 Forecast 32.6 112.9

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Ka za k h s t a n: A nc i e nt a nd P oe t i c

In February 2011, Kazakhstan hosted a huge international sport event – Winter Asian Games. The event not only attracted a number of international tourists, but also gave a strong boost to the country’s still small tourist industry through increased international awareness of Kazakhstan as a tourism destination, especially in Asian countries. The Winter Asian Games also boosted the tourism sector through large – more than US$ 1 billion – investments in infrastructure in areas of accommodation, public transport systems, airports and improved service levels. The most popular leisure tourism destinations for visitors are Alakol, Borovoe, Kulsaj and Issyk lakes, Charyn canyon, the mountainous landscape of Zailijsky Ala Tau, areas located on the Kazakhstan portion of the Silk Road such as the ancient cities of Taraz and Turkestan with Ahmed Yasavi's mausoleum, and the world’s first spaceport at Baikonur. However, the leisure tourism in Kazakhstan is still largely underdeveloped and retains significant future growth potential. The government tries to boost tourism in a variety of ways, such as through passing favorable legislation for private investments in tourism industry, investing in the development of tourism infrastructure and hosting large international events. Until 2014, Kazakhstan committed to develop tourism infrastructure, which includes new roads, railways, construction of new and renovation of old accommodation outlets, near the main recreational zones, World Heritage Sites, as well as other cultural, historical and business centers. April, 2011

Inbound Tourism in Kazakhstan (‘000 trips) 2005 2010 2015 Forecast Arrivals from 3820.6 6131.4 8131.7 Kyrgyzstan 741.7 1648.5 2408.8 Uzbekistan 1068.9 1701.8 2146.5 Russia 1332.8 1721.5 2071 Tajikistan 198.8 297.5 325.6 China 85.7 182.5 308.1 Other Countries 52.7 130.1 231.2 of Origin Turkey 58 84.1 136.1 Germany 84.5 93.1 127.4 Ukraine 44.5 72.1 97.7 Azerbaijan 42.7 39.5 58.1 Turkmenistan 21.1 32.5 41 United Kingdom 19.7 29.1 39.6 USA 25.3 25.5 28.9 ©2011 Euromonitor International

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Kazakhstan’s accessibility for international visitors is constantly improving as well, as more international air carriers include Kazakhstan cities in their destination maps. The local airways route map is rapidly expanding and new land border crossings with neighboring countries are planned to be opened. The consistent investments in the development of all areas of tourism sector indicate that in long term Kazakhstan will be attracting increasing numbers of international visitors. Over the next five years, the number of incoming visitors in Kazakhstan is expected to grow by annual rate of 6%, while incoming tourism receipts are expected to see 9% annual growth. * CIS countries – Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Georgia, Armenia, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova By Mantas Kaluina (Euromonitor International’s Senior Research Analyst) http://www.euromonitor.com

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Ka za k h s t a n: A nc i e nt a nd P oe t i c

Almaty: The Cosmopolitan Center of Kazakhstan Almaty has perhaps one of the most striking and beautiful locations of any city in the world. Located in the spectacular foothills of the Zilishkiy Alatau Mountains, Almaty is a pleasant city to live in, vibrant, green, and with thriving cosmopolitan culture. The impressive mountains are only half an hour’s drive from the city center. Almaty’s population is 1.5 million. The name Almaty comes from the Kazakh word 'alma', which means 'apple'. It used to be claimed that Almaty was home to the sweetest fruit in the world, and its former name, 'AlmaAta,' means ‘father of apples.’ One of the first reactions experienced by many foreigners arriving in the city is that it is the most 'European' in its architecture of all the Central Asian cities. 'Almaty' was the original name of a small Kazakh town, which was renamed 'Fort Vernyi' or 'Loyal Fort' by the Cossacks of the Russian Empire in the 18th and 19th centuries. In the early twentieth century, the capital of the Soviet Socialist Republic of Kazakhstan was established in the city, which was renamed Alma-Ata. Since then, the city has become the center of the economic, cultural, and political life in Kazakhstan. In 1997 the capital was moved to Astana, which is located further to the North, in the geographical center of Kazakhstan. However, Almaty remains the ‘Southern Capital,’ and the April, 2011

financial and cultural center not just of Kazakhstan but of the whole Central Asian region. Almaty is surrounded by the Alatau Mountains. Alatau means 'colorful' in Kazakh. The mountains can be seen from every corner of the city making it common for the locals to use phrases 'to go up' or 'to go down' a road in their direct meaning. Almaty’s climate is continental: it is hot in summer and can get very cold in winter. The coldest months are January and February, when the average temperature drops

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to -13°C (9°F), and the hottest months are July and August, when the mercury averages around +27°C (80°F). The low rainfall is reflected by low humidity, which moderates both the heat of Almaty's summer and the cold of its winter. Almaty is a haven for fans of the great outdoors. In the winter you can go figure skating at Medeu, the highest skating rink in the world, go skiing at one of several ski resorts within an hour's drive of the city, or go hiking or climbing in the mountains.

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Ka za k h s t a n: A nc i e nt a nd P oe t i c

In the center of the square stands the 18-meter-high monument of Independence designed by Shota Valikhanov, а well-known Kаzаkh architect. President Nazarbayev had the idea for the monument while on а diplomatic visit to Egypt. The obelisk is topped with the figure of а Sacae warrior with а winged snow leopard in flight, and flanked by metal panels depicting key events in Kazakhstan's history. А plaque at the foot of the obelisk bears the palm-print the President made on the Constitution when he was sworn in. Svyato-Voznesenski Orthodox Cathedral

In summer you can go sailing, swimming, and sunbathing at Kapshagai, an artificially created lake in an hour distance from the city. Small boats can be rented for the day, as well as larger boats for longer excursions. You can go horseback riding at Almaty's hippodrome or in one of the valleys in the mountains outside the city. Almaty is well-equipped with sports centers and gyms offering a wide range of facilities including classes in yoga, pilates and martial arts. For lovers of culture, Almaty has several permanent theaters including the Kazakh National Opera and Ballet Theatre, the State Drama Theater, and several others that offer daily performances in different languages. There are a number of cinemas that show movies in EngApril, 2011

lish as well as a range of art galleries, museums and even permanent circus. As well as a great number of restaurants offering both local and international cuisine, the city is home to a large and constantly evolving catalog of cafes, bars, bowling alleys and nightclubs. Landmarks The Republic Square

Аlmaty's main square is the largest and the most picturesque in the city, with its magnificent ensemble of modern architecture. To the south-east there is the President's Southern Residence, the former government building (now the Akimat, or City Hall) and the national television centre. The Central State Museum is situated east of the square, and the Regent Ankara Hotel is on the western side.

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The cathedral (also called the Zenkov Cathedral) is located in the 28 Panfilov’s Guardsmen Park. It was designed by a local architect A.P. Zenkov and was built in 1904 of wood, entirely without nails. Its wall paintings and screens were painted by local artist Nicholai Chludov while the interior decorations were made in art workshops in Moscow and Kiev. Its height is about 50 meters. The building strikes one’s imagination with its beauty and splendor. It is one of the eight most unique wooden buildings in the world. Of special interest is the fact that it survived the 1911 earthquake with a magnitude of 10 on the Richter scale. Used as a museum of local lore, history, and economy during the Soviet period, in May 1995 the Cathedral has been returned to the Russian Orthodox Church and restored. Since 1997, Orthodox services have been carried out there. The Central (Green) Bazaar

The Central Market, otherwise known as the Green Bazaar, brings to life the finest traditions

Destination

of the Asian bazaar. Неrе you can experience the true taste of the East. This is not just а market, but а meeting-place of various Asian cultures in miniature. You can sample the wealth of produce grown throughout Central Asia as many of the farmers have come from neighboring countries. In the bazaar's open courtyard there are numerous shashlyk stands, а flea market, flower stalls and а restaurant serving local dishes. The fruit and vegetables at the Green Bazaar are of extremely good value in summer.

opposite the Раnfilov Park. Тhrее types of bath are available at Arasan: Russian, Finnish and Turkish. The Russian and Finnish baths share the same plunge pool and you can try both on one ticket. The Finnish bath is dry while the Russian version is a sea of steam. Тhe Turkish bath consists of stone platforms heated to three different temperatures and а plunge pool. Various kinds of massage are on offer.

Arasan Baths

Almaty's central bath-house is situated in а large, impressive dome-shaped building April, 2011

http://www.kimep.kz http://tourasia.kz

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Ka za k h s t a n: A nc i e nt a nd P oe t i c

Destination

Ka za k h s t a n: A nc i e nt a nd P oe t i c

Back to the Soviet Era: Exploring the Baikonur Cosmodrome The Baikonur Cosmodrome, the world's first and largest operational space launch facility, situated in the middle of Kazakhstan’s steppes had tremendous historic significance. It was the launch pad for a whole new chapter of civilization. In 2000, from June 2 to 4, the 45th anniversary of Baikonur cosmodrome was celebrated with great fanfare. The location of the base of Soviet space program was of prime strategic importance, and after much consideration, an ideal spot was found in the vast steppes of Kazakhstan close to the mining town of Baikonur. The name in Kazakh means "wealthy brown", i.e. "fertile land with many herbs". In 1954, when the project was conceived, it was referred to as an "experimental range", since no such word as cosmodrome existed in the Russian language. When one of the construction workers asked Sergei Korolev, the Soviet rocket engineer, what was going to be built here in the middle of nowhere he was told "Stadium I – the biggest stadium in the world". It was the period of the so called "cold war" and great secrecy surrounded the site. The USA was keeping track of the number of nuclear weapons in the USSR, and trying to maintain an equal or greater stockpile. April, 2011

One year before that, on 12 August 1953, the first soviet hydrogen bomb had been tested in Semipalatinsk at the nuclear experimental range. Viacheslav Malyshev, the Vice Chairman of the Cabinet, understanding the destructive power of the bomb and envisioning the creation of a rocket, invited Sergei Korolev to discuss the matter and he and scientist Sergei Krukov came up with a sketch of the legendary R-7, which would ultimately carry up to 4.5 megatons of nuclear energy to a target. Malyshev never did get to see the first rocket, as he died from serious radiation he was exposed to while watching the detonation of the hydrogen bomb. Marshall Georgyi Jukov was commissioned to find the ideal site for the testing ground. The town of Baikonur was remote, in the endless steppes of Kazakhstan, yet thanks to its location close to the then still intact Aral Sea and its bustling ports accessible by rail and road, the location allowed for the easy shipment of building materials. Also, during the entire launch process, rockets would have to stay above Soviet territory so their trajectories could be monitored. Border areas would not do. Parallel to the construction of the base at Tyura-Tam (old

— 56 —

name of Baikonur) in 1955, about 300 km further north another project was realized – namely the construction of a fake wooden rocket model and launch pad to detract the attention of foreign secret service agencies. And indeed, on 21 August 1957, as a complete surprise to the world, the first R-7 was successfully launched, and on 4 October of that same year, the R-7 catapulted the first "sputnik" satellite onto the orbit.

Destination

Ka za k h s t a n: A nc i e nt a nd P oe t i c

Baikonur’s Firsts Many historic flights lifted off from Baikonur: the first operational intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM); the first man-made satellite, Sputnik 1, on October 4, 1957; the first spacecraft to travel close to the Moon, Luna 1, on January 2, 1959; the first manned orbital flight by Yuri Gagarin on April 12, 1961; and the flight of the first woman in space, Valentina Tereshkova, in 1963. 14 cosmonauts of 13 other nations, such as Czechoslovakia, East Germany and France, started their historic journeys from here as well under the Interkosmos program. In 1960, a prototype R-16 ICBM exploded before launch, killing over 100 people. Wikipedia.org

With the secret out at last, the name Cosmodrome was established and on 12 April 1961 Yuryi Gagarin blasted off from here to become the first man to orbit the Earth in his spaceship "Vostok". The flight lasted for 108 min. By then, the space industry had attracted a great workforce, so the town of Baikonur, having grown into a city, was renamed Leninsk and the rocket site was referred to as Baikonur. There were not only moments of triumph though. Prior to Gagarin's first journey to space, a rocket exploded on the ground, and over 100 victims perished. After the successful journey in space of the first female cosmonaut in June 1963, another rocket explosion took place, again at the cost of human life. In 1994, Russia re-launched its space program at Baikonur. Baikonur is fully equipped with facilities for launching both manned and April, 2011

unmanned spacecraft. It supports several generations of Russian spacecraft: Soyuz, Proton, Tsyklon, Dnepr, Zenit and Buran. During the temporary lapse of the United States' Space Shuttle program after the Columbia Disaster in 2003 it played an essential role in operating and resupplying of the International Space Station (ISS) with Soyuz and Progress spacecraft. At present, Russia has a rent agreement with Kazakhstan allowing them to use the site until 2050. It is managed jointly by the Russian Federal Space Agency and the Russian Space Forces. The shape of the area rented is an ellipse, measuring 90 kilometers east to west, by 85 kilometers north to south, with the cosmodrome at the centre. Thanks to the Russian space program, the city and the cosmodrome are growing and developing.

— 57 —

For several years now it is possible to visit Baikonur as a tourist and to explore the vastness of the Kazakh steppes around the cosmodrome which is a fantastic and memorable experience for all adventurous travelers, not only for those interested in the history of space technology. Visitors can walk around the Baikonur city, and tour the cosmodrome and its sights. At the world’s oldest and largest cosmodrome the travelers can see all the Russian rockets, all launching pads, all assembly building vehicles. Among the most popular landmarks are the "Proton" launch complex, space shuttle "Buran", Gagarin's launch site, the test complex of the heavy transport rocket "Soyuz", memorial house of Yuri Gagarin and visionary Sergey Korolev, the launch complex "Zenit" and much more. http://www.orexca.com

Destination

Ka za k h s t a n: A nc i e nt a nd P oe t i c

Turkistan: The Archeological Treasure Turkistan â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a sacred place, a place of worship and pilgrimage for Muslims, one of the oldest cities in the world. It has a population of 85,600 and is situated 160 km (100 miles) north-west of Shymkent on the Trans-Aral Railway between Kyzylorda to the north and Tashkent to the south. The site of ancient settlement Turkistan is an important archeological monument of the urban culture of South Kazakhstan. The major role this town played in the Late Middle Ages in Kazakhstan is widely known. It was the center of the economic and political development of various states, a trade and cultural centre on the junction of vast steppes and ancient agricultural areas, the place of preaching activities of the Turkic Sufi Khodja Akhmed Yasawi, the political centre of the Kazakh Statehood and the "second Mecca" of the Moslem East. Medieval Turkistan experienced a stormy history with periods of flourishing and decline. This town absorbed cultural traditions of various origins. In 2000, Turkistan celebrated its 1500th anniversary. A huge amount of ancient monuments, more than 800, remained there. Turkistan used to be one of the most significant trade and political centers of the whole Central Asian region for many centuries. Until the 18th century, Turkistan, or Yasi, as it used to be called, was the capital of the Kazakh Khanate formed in April, 2011

the 15th century. Many ancient monuments are retained in the city; striking architecture of the city surprisingly passed through a millennium with practically unchanged appearance.

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 58 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

The ancient buildings of Yasi suggest the lifestyle of people of the city. Turkistan as a city set on a trade route, certainly had a big advantage over other cities in the sense that it naturally attracted labor, funds, advanced technology,

Destination

Ka za k h s t a n: A nc i e nt a nd P oe t i c

Take the chance to welcome new Russian travellers

famous scientists and philosophers. Turkistan was also a center of education: there were large libraries in the city. The humanist and preacher Ahmed Yassaui founded a theological school there. When the famous Sufi Hoja Ahmed Yassaui read a sermon in the city Turkistan became quite well known. In his honor a temple was built here – a masterpiece of medieval architecture, mausoleum, consisting of a complex of palaces and temples. Fine furnishings and interior decorations of walls, roofs and ceilings will impress anyone. Even by modern standards, the building of the mausoleum is considered very large (40 meters in height); it has several domes. The central dome of the mausoleum, Kazanlak, unifies more than 35 different rooms. The caul-

dron was a symbol of unity and hospitality for the Turks. Therefore, special significance was attached to its size and appearance. Among historical places, Ordabasy natural boundary is particularly interesting. It was recently awarded the status of a Historic Reserve. It is here where formerly scattered Kazakh tribes united, transcending all differences, to confront the powerful and dangerous invader, Dzungaria. Among other famous places around Turkistan are Hanaka, the tomb of the Kazakh khans Esimhana, Ablai Khan Abulhairhana, the burial place of Kazybek, one of the founders of the first set of Kazakh laws "Zhety Zhargy". http://www.visitkazakhstan.kz http://www.natcom.unesco.kz

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Media partners

April, 2011

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Fairs & Exhibitions T ra v e l / T o u ris m

A P R I L

2 0 1 1

b y

regions

Fairs & Exhibitions

Western Europe

APRIL, 2011

2011 ERA Regional Airline Conference Location

Malta

Start / End

06 April 2011 / 07 April 2011

Provider

European Regions Airline Association

Contact

paula.bangle@eraa.org

Frühjahrsmesse Location

Austria / Dornbirn

Start / End

07 April 2011 / 10 April 2011

Provider

Dornbirner Messe GmbH

Contact

daniel.mutschlechner@messedornbirn.at

Turisme: International Tourism Salon in Catalonia

BMT 2011 Location

Italy / Napoli

Start / End

01 April 2011 / 03 April 2011

Provider

PROGECTA SRL

Contact

info@progecta.org

RI-IOTF (Reunion Island & Indian Ocean Trade Fair) 2011 Location

France / Saint-Denis

Start / End

01 April 2011 / 10 April 2011

Provider

REO (Réunion Event Organization)

Contact

vikash.reo@orange.fr

Aircraft Interiors Expo Location

Germany / Hamburg

Start / End

05 April 2011 / 07 April 2011

Provider

Hamburg Messe und Congress GmbH

Contact

kyra.schroeder@reedexpo.de

Location

Spain / Barcelona

Start / End

07 April 2011 / 10 April 2011

Provider

Fira de Barcelona

Contact

saloturisme@firabcn.es

Montage Location

United Kingdom / Aberdeen

Start / End

12 April 2011 / 14 April 2011

Provider

NTA

Contact

bob.rouse@NTAstaff.com

VisitScotland Expo 2011 Location

United Kingdom / Aberdeen

Start / End

13 April 2011 / 14 April 2011

Provider

VisitScotland

Contact

anne.sykes@visitscotland.com

Destination Health: The Health & Medical Tourism Show London Location

United Kingdom / London

Start / End

15 April 2011 / 16 April 2011

Provider

Independent

Contact

navmann@destinationhealth.co.uk

More events related to Travel/Tourism can be found here If you are an event provider you may consider to place your event in the above category, please click here If your event already is in the list you may consider using the enhanced listing. For replacement just click here

— 61 —

Fairs & Exhibitions

European Medical Travel Conference 2011

Vida Natura

Location

Spain / Barcelona

Location

Portugal / Porto

Start / End

27 April 2011 / 29 April 2011

Start / End

28 April 2011 / 30 May 2011

Provider

Health Care Strategy Int., Barcelona Centre Médic, Catalan Tourist Board

Provider

Exponor (Feira Internacional do Porto)

Contact

info@emtc2011.com

Contact

info@exponor.pt

International Conference on Tourism (ICOT 2011) Location Start / End

Greece / Rhodes Island 27 April 2011 / 30 April 2011

Provider Contact

Itinerari Sardegna Location

Italy / Cagliari

Start / End

29 April 2011 / 09 May 2011

Provider

Fiera Internazionale della Sardegna

Contact

commerciale@fieradellasardegna.it

icot@cut.ac.cy

MITM Euromed, Meetings & Incentive Travel Market Location

Spain / Vigo

Start / End

27 April 2011 / 29 April 2011

Provider

G.S.A.R. Marketing

Contact

gsar@gsamark.com

— 62 —

APRIL, 2011

Fairs & Exhibitions

CENTRAL Europe

LATO - Fair of Tourism and Recreation Location

Poland / Warsaw

Start / End

01 April 2011 / 03 April 2011

Provider

MT Polska

Contact

lato@mtpolska.com.pl

Recreation & Sport 2011 Location

Latvia / Kipsala

Start / End

01 April 2011 / 03 April 2011

Provider

International Exhibition Company BT 1

Contact

martins.refbergs@bt1.lv

Recreation and Sport 2011

Nature, Hunting, Fishing

Location

Latvia / Riga

Start / End

01 April 2011 / 03 April 2011

Provider

International Exhibition Company BT 1

Contact

info@bt1.lv

Tour Exhibition 2011

Location

Bulgaria / Plovdiv

Location

Moldova / Chisinau

Start / End

30 March 2011 / 03 April 2011

Start / End

01 April 2011 / 03 April 2011

Provider

International Fair Plovdiv

Provider

TUR- GAZETA

Contact

p.chapanov@fair.bg

Contact

exhibition@tour-exhibition.md

Romanian Tourism Fair

VELO RIGA 2011

Location

Romania / Bucharest

Location

Latvia / Riga

Start / End

31 March 2011 / 03 April 2011

Start / End

01 April 2011 / 03 April 2011

Provider

Romexpo

Provider

Riga International Exhibition Centre

Contact

directiacomerciala@romexpo.ro

Contact

info@rigaexpo.lv

Angling Riga 2011

Samara Tour Expo

Location

Latvia / Riga

Location

Russia / Samara

Start / End

01 April 2011 / 03 April 2011

Start / End

06 April 2011 / 07 April 2011

Provider

Riga International Exhibition Centre

Provider

RTE Group

info@bt1.lv

Contact

info@rte-expo.ru

Contact

APRIL, 2011

— 63 —

Fairs & Exhibitions

Leisure Without Borders

Agrotravel

Location

Russia / St. Petersburg

Location

Poland / Kielce

Start / End

07 April 2011 / 10 April 2011

Start / End

15 April 2011 / 17 April 2011

Provider

RESTEC Exhibition Company & Reed

Provider

Targi Kielce

Contact

express@restec.ru

Contact

biuro@targikielce.pl

New Europe Travel Mart

The Moscow Golf Show

Location

Croatia / Dubrovnik

Location

Russia / Moscow

Start / End

13 April 2011 / 15 April 2011

Start / End

22 April 2011 / 23 April 2011

Provider

William H. Coleman, Inc.

Provider

aiGroup

Contact

sales@whcoleman.com

Contact

moscow@aigroup.ru

Tourism, Leisure, Hotels

AITF International Travel & Tourism Fair

Location

Moldova / Chisinau

Start / End

14 April 2011 / 16 April 2011

Location

Azerbaijan / Baku

Provider

Moldexpo

Start / End

28 April 2011 / 30 April 2011

info@moldexpo.md

Provider

Iteca Caspian Ltd ITE Group Plc

Contact

pr-assistant@iteca.az

Contact

TOURSIB 2011 Location

Russia / Novosibirsk

Start / End

14 April 2011 / 16 April 2011

Provider

ITE Group plc

Contact

travel@ite-exhibitions.com

APRIL, 2011

— 64 —

Fairs & Exhibitions

AFRICA/MIDDLE EAST

Arabian Hotel Investment Conference Location

United Arab Emirates / Dubai

Start / End

30 April 2011 / 02 May 2011

Provider

Bench Events / MEED

Contact

ahic@meed-dubai.com

HORECA 2011 Location

Lebanon / Biel

Start / End

29 March 2011 / 01 April 2011

Provider

Horeca

Contact

info@hospitalityservices.com.lb

Travel World Expo (TWE) Location

Kuwait / Kuwait City

Start / End

29 March 2011 / 01 April 2011

Provider

Kuwait International Fair Company

Contact

info@kif.net

World Holiday & Travel Fair Location

South Africa / Johannesburg

Start / End

15 April 2011 / 15 April 2011

Provider

Thebe Exhibitions & Projects

Contact

info@worldtravelfair.co.za

APRIL, 2011

— 65 —

Fairs & Exhibitions

North America

APRIL, 2011

Airport Cities World Conference and Exhibition Location

USA / Memphis

Start / End

11 April 2011 / 13 April 2011

Provider

insight

Contact

amiee@airportconference.com

HSMAI’s Affordable Meetings Mid-America Location

USA / Chicago, IL

Start / End

13 April 2011 / 14 April 2011

Provider

HSMAI's Affordable Meetings

Contact

affordablemeetings@jspargo.com

International Destination Expo

TravelCom 2011 Location

USA / Las Vegas, NV

Start / End

30 March 2011 / 01 April 2011

Provider

Travel Industry Association of America

Contact

mike@vantagestrategy.com

Travel South Showcase Location

USA / Atlanta, GA

Start / End

03 April 2011 / 05 April 2011

Provider

Travel South USA

Contact

liz.bittner@travelsouthusa.com

CEO Forum Location

Lake Tahoe, Nevada

Start / End

06 April 2011 / 08 April 2011

Provider

World Travel CEO Forum

Contact

info@destinationmarketing.org

Location

Puerto Rico / San Juan

Start / End

14 April 2011 / 17 April 2011

Provider

ASTA

Contact

askasta@asta.org

Sport Events Congress Location

Canada / Ottawa

Start / End

17 April 2011 / 29 April 2011

Provider

Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance

Contact

info@canadiansporttourism.com

California Tourism Outlook Forum 2011 Location

USA / Sacramento, CA

Start / End

26 April 2011 / 28 April 2011

Provider

Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau (TIA)

Contact

sdickson@tia.org

— 66 —

Fairs & Exhibitions

Asia & Pacific

APRIL, 2011

Meetings & Events Annual Conference Location

Australia / Brisbane

Start / End

17 April 2011 / 19 April 2011

Provider

MEA

Contact

jbeedell@mea.org.au

China Hotel Investment Conference Location

China / Shanghai

Start / End

20 April 2011 / 22 April 2011

Provider

HVS

Contact

aphua@hvs.com

Hotel & Restaurant Expo Kazakhstan

Hotelex Shanghai

Location

Kazakhstan / Almaty

Start / End

20 April 2011 / 22 April 2011

Provider

ITE

Contact

food@iteca.kz

KITF Kazakhstan International Travel & Tourism Fair

Location

China / Shanghai

Location

Kazakhstan / Almaty

Start / End

29 March 2011 / 01 April 2011

Start / End

20 April 2011 / 22 April 2011

Provider

Shanghai UBM Sinoexpo Int'l Exhibition Co., Ltd.

Provider

Iteca ITE Group Plc

Contact

hotelex@ubmsinoexpo.com

Contact

tourism@iteca.kz

Food & Hotel Indonesia

International Food Industry Exhibition Seoul

Location

Indonesia / Jakarta

Start / End

06 April 2011 / 09 April 2011

Location

South Korea / Seoul

Provider

P. T. Pamerindo Buana Abadi

Start / End

26 April 2011 / 29 April 2011

fhindo@oesallworld.com

Provider

KOTRA

Contact

info@seoulfood.or.kr

Contact

China Outbound Travel and Tourism Market (COTTM)

Caravan, Camping, 4WD & Holiday Supershow

Location

China / Beijing

Location

Australia / Sydney

Start / End

13 April 2011 / 14 April 2011

Start / End

30 April 2011 / 08 May 2011

Provider

COTTM

Provider

CIA (Caravan Industry Australia)

Contact

ssinger@tarsus.co.uk

Contact

kylie@cciansw.com.au

— 67 —

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Business

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