MICE & TOURISM around the World Magazine FEBRUARY edition

M&TatW e-Magazine MICE & TOURISM around the World the global monthly online magazine since 1997 vol. 23, issue 2, February 2020

An Interview with…

Ms. Giedre Rozmanaite, Pacai Hotel, Vilnius, Lithuania

SUNCREAM ‘V’ CORAL REEFS BEST HOTELS, CITY HOTELS & RESORTS FOR 2020 FROM PRISON TO PARADISE, FERNANDO DE NORONHA ISLAND, BRAZIL EXHIBITIONS, STILL THE GATEWAY FOR BUSINESS

Message from

Caroline-Artemis Where did January go!

Welcome to the February edition; As we continue to see the spread of the Corona Virus round the world, the knock-on effect across so many industries is huge; least of all for tourism and M.I.C.E. Already exhibition and event organisers have been forced to cancel events or are seeing cancellations in registrations to attend in various regions.

With airlines suspending flights into mainland China and countries closing their land borders to Chinese citizens in an attempt to limit the spread of the virus, global tourism is suffering, but not only international tourism, China’s domestic tourism is almost nothing with transport networks halted across the country and huge numbers of people in city quarantines. Asia's tourism industry, is badly hit as it relies heavily on the growing numbers of Chinese visitors. Tour operators dealing with Chinese tour groups domestically and abroad are currently frozen.

With Chinese foreign travel having grown tenfold since 2003, when the last deadly global virus outbreak happened (SARS), the knock on effect of this current virus is devastating, mainly to the European countries such as France, Germany, Italy, Spain and some of central countries of the European continent, that are heavily relying on Chinese visitors. The full cost of this infection will not be known for some time, if at all measurable.

From car manufacturers, coffee shops, food producers to tech companies who have offices in China, have temporarily closed their operations and their employees if not locals are leaving the country. This then leads to ask the question, if these foreign employees who were working in China, will go back or in the meantime, due to the need to work, have no option other than to find a new job in their native country.

We wish all those well across the planet to get well soon and hope that our industry gets back on track with strength and prosperity as soon as possible.

Caroline-Artemis Laspas co-founder & editor

MICE & TOURISM around the World e-Magazine Volume 23, Issue 1, February 2020 edition – Online since 1997

Contents 6-8 Sun-cream ‘V’ Coral Reefs

9 Set to Spotlight the Baltic MICE Industry to the World

21-24 An Interview with… Ms. Giedre Rozmanaite, Pacai Hotel, Vilnius, Lithuania

15 Gtour is your Exclusive B2B Tourism Platform

27 British Airways Owner’s Boss to Step Down

38 Tourists Damaged Machu Picchu, Peru

29-34 Best Hotels, City Hotels & Resorts for 2020

42-44 From Prison to Paradise, Fernando De Noronha Island, Brazil 43-44 Exhibitions Still the Gateway for Business

SUN-CREAM ‘V’ CORAL REEFS

by Caroline-Artemis Laspas

As climate change continues to affect our planet, be it due to its natural cycle, it is clear that as the inhabitants of this planet we call home, we are not taking very good care at looking after it.

We pollute the seas, rivers and lakes, pollute the skies, pollute the beautiful open natural environments and still, in an era of instant information we know very well that this is going on, and yet little continues to be done to really take a hold of our responsibility to look after our HOME.

With two thirds of our planet covered in water, it is not surprising that the Oceans are a focus for human pollution; from chemicals, human waste, to rubbish and plastic, they have all been disposed of in the seas, rivers and oceans; the shocking evidence is clear all over the world.

It is therefore not surprising that these underwater worlds are now failing, dying and can longer sustain their life cycles.

Healthy coral reefs are one of the most valuable ecosystems on Earth.

They provide billions of pounds in economic and environmental services, such as food, coastal protection, and tourism.

However, coral ecosystems around the world are facing serious threats from a number of sources, including climate change, unsustainable fishing, land-based pollution, coastal development, disease, and invasive species. In addition, scientists have discovered that some of the chemicals found in sunscreen and other personal health products also threaten the health of coral reefs.

We have all thought of sunscreen as a holiday essential and more recently part of our daily skin routine to protect us from the damaging effects of UVB and UVA rays.

When on holiday by the beach, sunscreen washes off your body when you swim enters the marine environment. Common chemical sunscreen ingredients, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, can kill coral and damage coral reefs or cause coral to turn white or become ‘bleached’.

Before we go further, sunscreens fall into 2 categories; chemical sunscreens which absorb harmful UV rays and; mineral sunscreens which create a shield-like layer on top of the skin to deflect the UV rays.

Increasing numbers of destinations who offer anything sea related as part of their tourism offering, are implementing a ban on the use of chemical sunscreens, with oxybenzone, one of the most commonly used ingredients.

Tourists are keen to do their bit too, with worldwide online searches for ‘reef-safe sunscreen’ having more than quadrupled in the past 5 years. In fact, many manufacturers have already been producing ‘oxybenzone-free’ or ‘reef-friendly’ products for some time; it is only now that they have become the ‘new’ top beach accessory.

While we question what the sun-cream does to coral, questions are being raised about what these chemical sunscreens do to us, when we are applying them directly to our skin! Many in the beauty sector say that products containing suspected toxins may be absorbed into the body and into the bloodstream after just 24 hours of use, although there is no evidence on whether or not they have a negative effect.

While the debate about how damaging they are to our bodies continues, the potential is that people stop using sun creams altogether, which would be equally disastrous as UV radiation is one of the top causes to cancer worldwide.

So, what are we meant to do?

Protecting the environment from sunscreen is unquestionably important, but protecting ourselves from the sun is also equally important.

The degradation of coral reefs resulting from coral bleaching is a direct effect of temperature changes caused by climate change.

Sunscreen may also contribute to this too but there are other factors too like nutrient pollution and overfishing.

M.I.C.E News

Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions

LONDON’S SOMERSET HOUSE SEES RECORD BREAKING SEASON Somerset House has had a record breaking 2019 winter season helped by its stunning outdoor ice rink in its neoclassical courtyard with its glorious 40ft Christmas tree, decorations and seasonal catering, the entire venue.

Following a 120% increase in the average size of Christmas events taking place at Somerset House in 2019 (compared to 2018), the East Wing is available for exclusive parties up to 350 guests. Accessed directly from the neo-classical Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court, with beautiful high ceilings, grand windows and interlinking rooms it offers a unique location in the heart of London.

Organisations looking to host smaller Christmas events can make use of the Portico Rooms or Seamen’s Hall, where bespoke event management and catering packages are available alongside creative theming.

Luci Sorrell, Business Development Manager of the Commercial Events team at Somerset House comments: “Our 2019 Christmas season was an incredible success with significant growth in guest numbers attending individual events. The feedback from attendees and clients has been extremely positive, with most expressing the desire to rebook for 2020, so we have ensured our packages are available as soon as possible. The East Wing offers a truly exclusive and exciting space for Christmas events. When combined with the opportunity for guests to skate in the heart of London, alongside the food, drink and entertainment options, it creates the perfect Christmas party offer. Our dedicated team will be on hand to ensure all guests enjoy a celebration like no other.”

AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCE SPICES UP THE TEAM SPIRIT IN SEOUL As experience-oriented trips are earning popularity with MICE participants, team building programmes with real hands-on experience are also on trend.

The Korean Wave colours team building programmes in Seoul are gaining popularity for international groups attending business events.

Korean Wave has mesmerised more than 8 million viewers globally with spectacular performances of traditional Korean rhythmical music, Samulnori.

This unique nonverbal performance has no barriers in terms of age, ethnicity, or language making it ideal for anyone and any group. The harmonious sound made together with up to 100 team members per session reflects the success of the team building opportunities.

Creating bonds happens affectively when team members share something new together. Pangshow offers a one-of-a-kind team building session where participants learn baking simple bread and take a cruise tour around the beautiful Hangang River watching a live performance based on the famous K-drama. The session is available for maximum capacity of 180 participants at one session making it suitable for big groups.

The popular TV game show named Running Man has launched many team building programmes in Seoul to reflect the format of the programme. Solving the missions together is the base of the programme, as well as encouraging friendly competition.

CONVENE SET TO SPOTLIGHT THE BALTIC MICE INDUSTRY TO THE WORLD The countdown is on for the 8th edition of CONVENE, taking place in the beautiful Lithuanian capital, Vilnius.

The annual show returns from 12-13 February 2020, where Hosted Buyers can meet face-to-face with service suppliers, venue representatives, convention bureaus, DMCs and PCOs. As knowledge sectors keep trending in the right direction across the Baltic Sea Region, there’s never been a better time for international meeting planners who have clients within these sectors to put it on their radars. In fact, a perfect starting point would be CONVENE, the Baltic Sea Region’s leading trade show for the meetings and events industry.

VILNIUS THE ‘G-SPOT OF EUROPE’ This controversial advert, naming Vilnius the G-Spot of Europe, won the best advert campaign at the International Travel & Tourism Awards last year.

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, succeeded in attracting more attention amongst Western Europe’s millennials and to invite them to experience all the city has to offer. Following the ad campaign, the website vilniusgspot.com was visited by over 100,000 people globally and Google searches trebled! The campaign reached an audience of 600 million and the number of tourists increased by 12%.

Vilnius is small, beautiful and walkable. With a wide variety of activities, restaurants, museums, stunning architecture, it is the perfect destination for events and leisure.

Taking place on 12-13 February 2020 in Vilnius, CONVENE draws more than 165 Hosted Buyers from Europe and beyond who will be taking part in some 2,600 pre-scheduled business meetings with 80+ Exhibitors from across the Baltic Sea Region.

OMAN CONVENTION CENTRE SUPPORTED ECONOMY

During 2019, the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre hosted more than 230 different activities with a 36% increase in reservations compared to 2018. In 2019 the centre hosted 13 live events and 27 international conferences and welcomed over 800,000 visitors from more than 100 different nationalities across the 105,000sq.m of exhibition halls.

The Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre has become a contributor to strengthening the national economy, and continues to support the Sultanate’s aim to enhance economic diversification and improve the systems for achieving sustainability by promoting the destination globally and welcoming international tourists.

www.miceandtourismaroundtheworld.com

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL HALLS NEW VENUE SALES MANAGER The Royal Horticultural Halls in Westminster, London, welcomes Rhiân Pressley as its Venue Sales Manager. Pressley takes over from Lorraine Thorne.

Rhiân has worked on the Sales Team from December 2016 to June 2018. In June 2018, she moved to The Royal Horticultural Society’s Special Events Team, where she managed their flagship Gala and preview evenings. She said, “It is truly exciting to be returning to the Royal Horticultural Halls. My mission is to revamp our AV offer, and I am keen to utilise my previous experience on both the client and the venue side to streamline the existing processes for both the client and contractors alike.”

AIM GROUP INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS IN 2019 AIM Group International had a successful 2019, with over 350 event professionals across 11 countries, designed 3,000+ event experiences for 400 corporate and association clients, over 6,600+ event days. They managed 400,000+ participants and booked 410,000+ room nights in 90+ destinations worldwide.

Its major congresses included the Lions Clubs International Convention (25,000 delegates, Milan); the Apimondia World Congress (Montréal, 5,500 delegates + ApiExpo trade fair, 240 exhibitors and +5000m2); the EAN European Academy of Neurology (Oslo, 7,000 delegates); the SIAARTI 2019 ICARE (Rome, 4,000 delegates) and the World Tunnel Congress (Naples, 2,700 delegates) which was recognised at the BEA World Awards).

Looking forward it is working on several major events; World Routes 2020 (Milan, 5-9 September 2020) – a reference event for the aviation industry which gathers 5,000 participants; Second Life 50+ Expo (Brussels, 2020, 2021 and 2022) – an exhibition for elderly people with 20,000 expected visitors and 300 exhibitors.

RAINTON ARENA THE PLACE TO DO BUSINESS One of the North East’s newest and biggest venues is setting its sights on large scale events with a raft of state-of-the-art facilities.

Rainton Arena, at Houghton-le-Spring near Sunderland, recently unveiled the results of a major transformation and investment into the building.

And the space, which is the largest indoor arena in County Durham, is now perfectly equipped to cater for everything from sporting and charity dinners, to exhibitions, conferences, award evenings and product launches.

Easily accessed and with more than 800 free car parking spaces, Rainton Arena offers endless versatility in terms of layout and use.

Key features of the venue – which can hold up to 2000 people - include full audio- visual connectivity and technical support and a permanent raised stage, while a balcony area can either be utilised or closed off depending on the scale of the event.

The space also houses a fully equipped bar along with a new catering operation, which has already gained a huge amount of positive feedback from customers.

It enables the venue to cater as easily for canapés receptions and hot or cold buffets as for formal, one or two-course seated lunches for around 1000 people.

Such is Rainton Arena’s flexibility that, instead of trying to attract corporate clients with fixed price packages, the venue tailors each event to the client’s requirements and budget.

Rainton Arena is within easy access of major North East road, rail and air networks and Jay is also in discussion with hotels in the area to create joint packages which he hopes will appeal to large conference and event’s organisers from other parts of the country.

ECO-RESPONSIBLE VENUE DEDICATED TO CORPORATE EVENTS Located in Chantilly, is a unique corporate seminar centre, in the heart of a vast park.30 mins from Paris Gare du Nord or CDG Airport, the Campus Serge Kampf Les Fontaines consists of a superb Rothschild Château for fine dining, contemporary spaces for all types of meetings, including a 450-seat auditorium, 60 meeting rooms, 300 bedrooms in 7 villas for the accommodation of guests, in magnificent 52-hectare grounds. The meeting facilities can cater for 10- 500 people.

The Normandy Farm, named after its particular style, was built even before the château was completed. A space for relaxation, work or dining, The Normandy Farm is the ideal place for a meeting surrounded by nature. It features a plenary room that holds up to 50 people and 5 sub-commission rooms. For a countryside meal, it can accommodate up to 70 people.

Environmentally responsible rooms: In the peace and quiet of nature, the rooms benefit from the same environmental responsibility found throughout the Campus. The rooms are heated and cooled by geothermal energy and the electrical energy used is 100% renewable.

SUCCESS FOR 6TH ATHENS INTERNATIONAL TOURISM EXPO 2019 The 6th AIT Expo was held with great success getting very best comments from Visitors, Exhibitors and Hosted Buyers.

The opening of the exhibition was made by the Minister of Tourism, Mr. Haris Theocharis, with the participation of the President of GNTO - GREEK NATIONAL TOURISM ORGANIZATION Mrs. Angela Gerekou, the GNTO General Secretary Mr. Dimitris Frangakis and Attiki Regional Governor Mr. G. Patoulis.

The Exhibition was attended by 260 Exhibitors from Greece and 10 other countries (China, India, Serbia, Egypt, Germany, Bulgaria, Morocco, Malaysia, Cyprus, Israel) and the professional visitors exceeded 5,200. The majority of visitors came from the sectors of accommodation, travel agencies, MICE & DMC, Yachting and Greek gastronomy.

The 8,000 B2B meetings between Exhibitors and 150 Hosted Buyers from 50 countries were also a big success.

The Minister of Tourism during the inauguration said that "the exhibition is a first-class opportunity for exchanging ideas and concluding agreements between tourism professionals, Hosted Buyers, exhibitors and visitors, to create combinable holiday packages. The importance of these contacts is increasing as professionals, bodies and organisations from abroad, are participating in the exhibition for the first time this year”.

Mrs. Gerekou in her speech said “that tourism fairs in Greece are being strengthened, and spoke of new steps by GNTO in the field of visibility, highlighting new destinations and aiming at sustainable tourism, with respect to the environment.”

Almost all Hosted Buyers, at the end of the process, were very satisfied with expo’s results and the cooperation opportunities offered by the Exhibitors. A large proportion did not believe that they would enter into serious commercial agreements with many Exhibitors.

BRUNEI HOSTS SUCCESSFUL ASEAN TOURISM FORUM - ATF 2020 From 12-16 January 2020, The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) was held bringing together the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region as one tourist destination. This annual event involves all the tourism industry sectors of the 10 Member Nations of ASEAN: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Viet Nam. The hosting of ATF is rotated among the Member Nations.

ATF TRAVEX is the longest-running annual ASEAN leisure travel trade event, showcasing the largest contingent of ASEAN sellers.

Organised during ATF, this annual event involves all the tourism industry sectors of the 10 Member Nations.

The theme at this year’s ATF was ‘ASEAN – Together Towards A Next Generation Of Travel’ A total of 838 pre-registered delegates attended along with 263 exhibiting delegates, 150 exhibiting booths from companies and properties across the 10 ASEAN Countries, across an exhibition area of 5,200sqm.

161 Buyers From 43 Countries/ Territories were present from Australia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, China PR, Czech Republic, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong SAR, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Malaysia, Mexico, Myanmar, Nepal, the Netherlands, Pakistan, The Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Singapore, Slovakia, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, United States of America and Viet Nam. The largest number of buyers from outside Brunei Darussalam were: China PR (11%), The Philippines (7%), Singapore (6%), India (6%), Malaysia (5%), Cambodia (4%). By Region: Asia-Pacific 64%, Europe 29%, Americas 4% and Middle East 3%.

There were 109 Media from 21 Countries. With education seminars, pre and post show tours, High ranking meetings and press conferences, the ASEAN Tourism Forum was yet again a focus for the regions tourism industry and its progress and future developments.

2 MONTHS TO GO BEFORE THE TRAVEL TECH MIDDLE EAST IN RIYADH Following the success of the first 3 editions of Travel Tech Middle East (TTME), Verve Management is th delighted to host the 4 Edition Travel Tech Middle East Congress on 23 – 24 March 2020 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

4th Edition Travel Tech Middle East gives an emphasis on the implementation of the technologies in the travel industry and discusses the key insights in Travel & Tourism sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The TTME Saudi is going to be attended by leading airlines, travel agencies, developers, hoteliers and online travel agencies from across the globe to discuss Saudi Vision 2030 – Launch initiatives to promote travel technology, How companies in travel and tourism ecosystem can generate revenue by expanding payment options, Understanding the modern travelers mindset and the use of digital technology to capture Saudi Travel Industry, The future of air travel industry, The secrets behind a winning OTA strategy, Corporate booking tool, Building on-demand booking systems for an on-demand society and How can travel companies keep pace to become real time.

The 2020 All Star Line-up will include: Haitham Mattar (Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage), Abdulrahman Mutrib (Seera Group), Albert Fernando (Travelwings), Amit Taneja (Cleartrip), Andrew Pearson (Intelligencia), Hazem Sonobol (Saudi Airlines), Ibrahim Al Nasser (Ministry of Communication and Information Technology), Kashif Rana (Etihad Airways), Mandar Vaidya (OYO), Sherif Omar (Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts), Stefan Pichler (Royal Jordan Airlines), Zaeem Gama (Kanoo Travels) and many more! rd

3 Edition Travel Tech Middle East Awards will also take place during the congress. TTME Awards serve to celebrate, identify and reward excellence in the Middle East’s growing travel and tourism industry through the annual awards programme to continually raise their standards of their products and service offering. Nominations are now open for the following categories: Tech Savvy Luxury Hotel, Tech Savvy Spa & Resort, Tech Savvy Budget Hotel, Tech Savvy Car Rental Site, Tech Savvy Travel Booking Website, Tech Savvy Travel Agency, Disruptive Travel Tech Provider, Innovative Airline, Most Promising Travel Tech Start Up and Tech Savvy B2B Player.

TTME is also calling all the Universities and College Students across the Middle East to join the Travel Tech Innovation Challenge 2020. Get a chance to present the business idea at the congress and win an internship opportunity at one of the top Online Travel Agencies in Middle East.

Verve Management would like to invite all the organisations involved in the Travel and Tourism industry to be part of this special initiative. To register, email us at info@traveltechme.com or visit www.traveltechme.com

MEETING OF TURKISH AND GLOBAL MICE SECTOR CREATED A GREAT SYNERGY! More than 15,000 visitors attended ACE of M.I.C.E. Exhibition by Turkish Airlines fair with more than 230 International buyers from 54 countries for 3 days.

Between 22-24 January 2020, congress, meeting and event professionals came together at the Istanbul Congress Centre. The ACE of M.I.C.E event provided the industry professionals with a unique MICE experience for the 7th time, while it offered the opportunity to bring together the sector professionals once a year to discuss the sector's problems, solutions, and new collaborations. The fair, which included the Vestel Production Talks held at the ICC Üsküdar Hall on January 22-23 and the Istanbul MICE Summit conference programs held on Friday, January 24, undertook the mission of shedding light on the future of the MICE sector.

For the first time in Turkey, the things to do to make Istanbul a leading MICE destination got discussed in a summit. The summit, which was moderated by Volkan Ataman, President of the Tourism Media Group, focused on the subject in 5 separate sessions in 5 separate sessions with protocol, important incentive companies, chairpersons of pcos and event agencies, directors of international chain Hotels and congress centres general managers. Also the directors of foreign Congress Bureaus, coordinated by ICVB, shared their success stories in this area with the participants.

In addition to intense business meetings, the entertainment night of the fair was also worthy of the MICE sector. An unforgettable night was accompanied by video mapping shows, music groups, DJ and dance performances full of surprises at the party where national and international hosted buyers, exhibitors, speakers, international MICE association heads were invited.

The next ACE of MICE Exhibition by Turkish Airlines will be on the date of 10-12 February 2020!

MEETINGS ARABIA AND LUXURY TRAVEL CONGRESS: SURGE IN OUTBOUND TRAVEL FROM MIDDLE EAST The MICE industry is anticipated to reach over UK£1.06 billion in the next 5 years registering a CAGR of 7.6%. The Middle East is one of the fastest-growing tourism generators globally, with outbound travel having quadrupled in the last 2 decades which makes the region an important source market for any destination. nd

The UAE is the 2 biggest source market for outbound travel from the Middle East, surpassed by Saudi Arabia with business and luxury outbound travellers being a combination of locals and expats. The growing number of destinations served by the UAE's airlines is also one of the factors that attributes to the growth of outbound travel from the UAE. However, new generations with different demands are taking over the market; the concern for sustainability is increasing with health & lifestyle becoming a very important factor for destination selection.

The 8th Annual Meetings Arabia and Luxury Travel Congress taking place in Dubai UAE at the Rixos Premium JBR on 25-26 February 2020 will once again bring the entire realm of Meetings, events, business and luxury travel buyers from across the region to meet top suppliers and discuss diverse trends, strategies, challenges and solutions in the industry.

Singapore welcomed over 2.9 million MICE visitors that led to a growth of 12.1% in the year 2017. Over the last year, tourist receipts rose by 7.2% reaching a total of UK£3.54 billion. In 2019, the country has seen an increase in interest in meetings and incentives groups from several Middle Eastern corporations leading to a positive influx. Commenting on their participation, Singapore Tourism Board says “We are extremely thrilled to be on board for the eighth edition of the Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel Congress especially with the launch of a new version of the ‘In Singapore Incentive & Reward’ (INSPIRE). This is an incentive programme that has been launched in order to attract more visitors amongst the growing MICE sector. This new global programme will serve as a key platform that has been designed to engage visitors and offer complimentary experiences who are excited to explore the country. Through this conference, we aim to create more awareness of this incentive programme and learn the different trends and strategies that have shaped today’s MICE industry.”

Korean MICE destinations have also become one of the best meeting and conferences destinations due to their rapid modern developments in infrastructure and an improvement in offering excellent services and accessibility for all tourists. The Seoul Tourism Organization is participating in the MALT Conference, where the organization will be exploring sustainability in the tourism division.

Commenting, Seoul Convention Bureau-Seoul Tourism Organization says, “The keyword in tourism is sustainability as it is the big word for the areas related to tourism, economy and culture. In response to this, exciting options will be presented to event planners to aid in establishing their business events eco-friendly and socially sustainable. Also, the advancement in technology will find its way to be implemented in many areas of travelling to bring the convenience to the highest level, while people are in continuous search of authentic local experience to satisfy their sensation to the fullest.”

While part of this growth can be attributed to the UAE and Saudi Arabia’s large expatriate populations, GCC nationals are no strangers to European destinations, its culture and history as well as its retail and luxury hospitality offerings. City destinations and cultural experiences spur inbound travel into Europe from the Middle East. Italy, France and the UK are holiday destinations for these travellers, which provide ample opportunities for experiences through entertainment, attractions, sightseeing and shopping. Italian ambassadors, i2travel, will be part of this prestigious event. i2travel states “The Middle Eastern market is doing an exceptional job at boosting the MICE sector making it a competitive and dynamic player globally. Our Company’s tailor made approach in understanding Middle East culture with its clients expectations makes the difference on each Italian destination” Apart from the conference & one to one meeting format, the congress also host the MALT Excellence Awards, the regions’ one of a kind, most coveted award ceremony that highlights, honours and celebrates path breaking achievements in the field of MICE, Business and Luxury th Travel from the Middle East will take place on 26 February 2020 in conjunction with the Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel Congress.

PHILOXENIA-HOTELIA VOTE OF CONFIDENCE FROM 20,143 VISITORS; TRADE VISITORS INCREASED BY 19%; RECORD 4500 MEETINGS The Philoxenia and Hotelia exhibitions is a platform of optimism for Greek tourism, gathering tourism sector professionals at the Thessaloniki International Exhibition Centre for 3 days. The exhibition duo attracted 20,143 visitors, proof of the trust placed in them by sector professionals, who continuously and consistently choose these exhibitions to promote themselves and to open channels of cooperation.

The number of trade visitors increased by 19%.

Furthermore, a record number of 4500 meetings were held between hosted buyers and exhibitors, during a rich programme that satisfied both sides.

There was a broad programme of side events at Philoxenia, including the Honoured Regions (Poland, the Region of Thessaly, and the Municipality of Tripoli). The events for Poland as Honoured Country attracted many visitors, while the events organised by the Region of Thessaly and the Municipality of Tripoli were especially interesting. Nepal’s 1st ever participation at Philoxenia was also successful, with Nepalese tourism officials attending the exhibition being very satisfied with the results.

Furthermore, 35 tourism start-ups were presented at Philoxenia via 2 entities: Digital Greece, a project of the Ministry of Digital Governance, and CapsuleT Travel & st Hospitality Accelerator, the 1 Greek start up accelerator exclusively for tourism, which is an initiative of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels. Attendance at this event indicated that tourism innovation attracts a lot of interest.

This year’s Philoxenia International Congress on ‘Dark Tourism-Shedding light on a dark past’ highlighted the tourism prospects of Thessaloniki and Central Macedonia in this field, as well as in all international examples indicating ‘Dark Tourism’ trends.

Large numbers of people attended the dozens of Hotelia events. ‘A unique VR accommodation experience’ was a successful interactive event, providing visitors with the opportunity to have an unprecedented virtual hotel accommodation experience. Other thematic sections included: All About Café attracting large numbers of visitors to its seminars and events, The Cup Tasting Spot and the Latte Art ThrowDown also made an impression, while world champion baristas enlightened those attending. The All About Gastronomy thematic section was equally successful, with the Nutritious reservation, Nutritious Reservations bar, and Nutritious Reservations’ Speeches.

The Philoxenia-Hotelia exhibition hosted 542 exhibitors, participating from 21 countries, the entire domestic tourism industry, Greece’s 13 regions and many of its municipalities. More specifically, there were 382 Philoxenia and 160 Hotelia exhibitors. They came from all over Greece, Poland, Bulgaria, Luxembourg, Azerbaijan, the Philippines, Cyprus, Uzbekistan, Great Britain, Nepal, Peru, Bosnia, Turkey, Slovakia, Serbia, Armenia, Kenya, Russia, Albania, Czech Republic and France.

There were a total of 142 hosted buyers at both exhibitions. 100 top tour operators from 37 countries attended Philoxenia (1/3 of the Hosted Buyers were MICE and 2/3 were Tour Operators and Travel Agents), while 42 hosted buyers from 19 countries attended Hotelia. There were 160 people in the international groups visiting Philoxenia from Turkey, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria, and 120 visiting Hotelia from Bulgaria and North Macedonia.

SOUTH INDIA TRAVEL EXPO - SITE 2020 TO BE HELD AT THIRUVANANTHAPURAM South India Travel Expo – SITE 2020, the biggest travel, tourism and hospitality expo in South India will be held at Uday Palace, Kowdiar, Trivandrum, Kerala from 7th May to 10th May, 2020. The official brochure for SITE 2020 was released by Union Minister for Tourism Prahlad Singh Patel at an event held at New Delhi. “SITE 2020 will be a game changer for South India tourism and will surely boost the tourism and hospitality business prospects of South India states” he said. Manoj Babu, CEO, SITE 2020, Siji Nair, Managing Director, Metro Media and Prasad Manjali, Managing Director, Citrine Hospitality were present at the function.

South India Travel Expo is envisioned as a grand networking venue for key players in hospitality industry from the South Indian states and focus on tourism exchange between southern states of India. The event is being organised by South Kerala Hoteliers’ Forum (SKHF) in association with South India Hotels and Restaurants Association (SIHRA).

The event is supported by Kerala tourism and other South Indian state tourism boards.

The event will host around 3000 travel, tour operators both from India and abroad and will have 200+ stalls. First day (8th) of the event is dedicated to trade category, second day (9th) to Corporate category. The third day (10th) will be open for general public.

CHINESE EXHIBITIONS POSTPONED DUE TO CORONA VIRUS WUHAN INTERNATIONAL GAME AND AMUSEMENT FAIR The event has been postponed until 10-12 July. It was scheduled to take place on 6-8 March 2020.

GUANGZHOU INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL FAIR - GITF 2020 This event has been postponed until 2021. The event was due to take place from 20-22 February 2020.

IT&CM China 2020 This event will now take place from 3-5 August 2020. It was due to take place from 24-26 March 2020.

7TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CULTURAL AND DIGITAL TOURISM – IACUDIT Building on the success of the previous conferences, the 7th International Conference of the International Association of Cultural and Digital Tourism (IACuDiT) is to be held in Hydra Island, Greece, on 17 – 19 June 2020, with the theme ‘Culture and Tourism in a Smart, Globalised and Sustainable World’. The aim of this conference is to promote constructive, critical and interdisciplinary conversations on the challenges emerging in tourism from the digital transformation of the industry by bringing together researchers, communities, industry and government stakeholders. In line with the values embedded in the UNWTO goals, the conference will address digital advances and innovation as part of the solution to the challenge of marrying continued growth with a more inclusive, sustainable and responsible tourism sector.

This conference will provide a good mix of stimulating discussions, cutting edge paper presentations and interesting social events.

Athens’ multi-faceted sights, attractions and city life appeal to diverse groups of tourists, where shopping, authentic local and fusion gastronomy and clubbing experiences offer a wide range of choices and prices.

www.miceandtourismaroundtheworld.com

As it approaches the 1st anniversary since its debut opening in the heart of the Lithuanian Capital, Vilnius, we talk to the Head of Sales & Marketing, Ms. Giedre Rozmanaite from the 5* Boutique PACAI Hotel. Here we discover more about this unique property and how tourism in Lithuania has progressing through the eyes of the hotel. This interview was conducted while MICE & TOURISM around the World e-Magazine visited the hotel recently.

The PACAI Hotel is in a stunning location and is indeed a beautiful building. Can you briefly tell us about its unique history?

The building was the residence of the army commander Mykolas Kazimieras Pacas in 17th century and it was one of the most magnificent mansion for 150 years. Even in the 17th century this residence worked like a hotel because important guests stayed here, and they paid for it. That money were donated to build one of the most beautiful churches‘ in Vilnius – St. Peter and Paul Church. Some of the illustrious guests were Napoleon Bonaparte, the Russian tzars Peter I and Alexander I, and the Kind of Poland, Jan Sobieski – in other words, people who were repainting the map of Europe, stayed in our current property.

What sets the hotel apart from the other similar hotel offerings in Vilnius?

Hotel PACAI takes inspiration from Vilnius history and Baltics region – the city, people, nature and culture. Through the integration of design, food, art and music we bring a new and exciting project on Vilnius map. The design concept of Baltic colours continues through the hotel, giving attention to local artists our walls are decorated with the paintings created by local artist. New books launching by local writers is a part of integration with local culture. We created special PACAI playlist that can be also found on Spotify, our guests are welcomed with handmade sweets, and our guests find special Lithuanian herbs or amber treatments in PACAI Spa. To make deeper connection with city, we created local guide „PACAI Explore“, including local designer’s artworks or modern local food spots. We are very focused in our guest health, so we created a special video with steps how to do morning workout and each deluxe category room has the necessary morning workout equipment. Starting from February we will offer our hotel guests yoga lessons twice a week. To make the stay more meaningful we created special PACAI scent and guests can feel it entering into the building and in our pub lic spaces. We have rich history of the building and it is something you don‘t expect from the standard hotel. This is beyond the 5-star rating. Creating a meaningful experiences and emotional connection with our guests – makes new luxury consumers to travel in experimental way. With our service and attention we seek to fill our guest’s needs before they actually asked for it.

From where do most of your clientele come from to date and are their markets you which to target more?

PACAI is a vibrant and stylish home for those eager to experience unique moments. Our guests immerse into the world of history and intrigue, and they love staying in elegant rooms. We invite our guests to indulge in hotel‘s architecture, lavish design in the Baltic colour palette, dreamy art, and the most exquisite gastronomy in the Baltics. Moreover, for those clientele who are searching for wellness we are happy to offer SPA treatments and beauty packages that are tailored for every guests individually. Our to p markets are USA, UK, Germany and Lithuania though our top markets are remaining stabil, we see big potential in Israel, Asian as well in Belarus and neighbourhood Latvia.

The new Muros restaurant within the hotel sounds amazing. Tell us more about it and why this type of food offering?

MUROS - is a very new sharing-plate and steak restaurant, curated by well know Lithuanian shef Liutauras Čeprackas. Our aim is to deliver ultimate dinning experience inspired by best steakhouses from New York to Madrid. We are the first restaurant that represents a Montague Broiler, that enables us to prepare the finest cuts in 1000 degrees heat and elevates the flavors to anot her dimension. Our more than 250 different labels of wine tells an unforgetable stories about traditions, craft and knowledge.

MUROS provides elegant and attentive service influenced by Europe fine dinning with easy and comfort of American style.

The hotel has the capacity to host events. What kind of event have you hosted so far and are there plans to expand the meetings space offering.

Our venues are designed for workshops and festivities as well as larger meetings up to 80 people. We offer the best location in the center of Vilnius Old Town, four meeting rooms and facilities to host event. Our baroque courtyard can be also reserved for launch events or gathering from morning till evenings up to 250 people. Hotel's restaurant or bar can also be reserved for private events. We changed our conference lobby area in to cosy library, where our guests can meet, get lost in a book, sip a cup of coffee or build visions of future.

Vilnius is a stunningly beautiful city that is leading the way in the Baltic region. Can you tell us why you think it offers more than any other Baltic capitals or big cities?

With its lovely Baroque architecture, cobblestone alleyways, and hip bohemian enclaves, Vilnius makes an ideal city break, even more so when you realise it’s substantially cheaper than other European cities. Charismatic streets of Old Town—a UNESCO cultural heritage site—and along the river into the creative hub of Užupis, known for the quirky fact that it boasts its very own constitution. Craft beer, castles, Soviet relics, street art, culture scene, lively arts round out this ace destination. Vilnius attracts young professionals, offers world-class environment and infrastructure for business, all less than a 3-hour flight from most places in Europe.

Finally, can you tell our readers why should come to Vilnius for business or pleasure!

Vilnius is one of Europe’s loveliest under-the-radar capitals. Faced with the Soviet struggles and rising economy crisis of the early 2000s, people rallied and reinvented, many turning to creative means to make a living. Today, historical city turned artisana l concept shops, bold new restaurants, and a generally slowed-down vibe has drawn a young population to a town with green spaces, art, and history. My favorite neighborhood is Uzupis with its local galleries, colorful streets and good coffee.

www.hotelpacai.com

Airlines & Aviation News

BRITISH AIRWAYS OWNER'S BOSS TO STEP DOWN Willie Walsh, chief executive of International Airlines Group (IAG), the owner of British Airways, is to leave the job at the end of March this year. Mr Walsh became the British Airways boss in 2005 and is ending a 15-year career with the IAG group.

Mr Walsh said: "It has been a privilege to have been instrumental in the creation and development of IAG. I have had the pleasure of working with many exceptional people over the past 15 years at British Airways and at IAG." Willie Walsh is a long-standing figure in the aviation industry.

He joined Aer Lingus in the late 1970s as a cadet pilot.

Working his way up, he was made chief executive of Aer Lingus in 2001.

Mr Luis Gallego, head of the group's Spanish division, Iberia, since 2014, will succeed Mr Walsh. He said: "It is a huge honour to lead this great company. It is an exciting time at IAG and I am confident that we can build on the strong foundations created by Willie."

CHINA EASTERN TO OPEN GUANGZHOU, YANGON AIR ROUTE China Eastern Airlines is to begin international flights between Guangzhou and Yangon, Myanmar from the end of January. Yango n is the largest city in Myanmar and is an excellent Southeast Asia tourist destination. The new flight will offer more choices for people living in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area to travel to Yangon. At present China Eastern Airlines operates approximately 70 daily flights at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, reaching 37 major domestic cities in addition to Bangkok and Nagoya.

AIRLANDER 10 WORLD'S LONGEST AIRCRAFT TO GET LONGER A new design of the world's longest aircraft has been making it 5% longer. Hybrid Air Vehicles (HAV) said ‘nose to tail’ changes to the in-development Airlander 10 included a rounder front and a new tail section.

The new aircraft will be about 98m long and the cabin underneath can be built to different lengths. It would also make it more fuel-efficient. HAV is currently working with Collins Aerospace and the University of Nottingham to go all-electric. It aims to be in production soon with an aircraft in the skies by 2024.

FLYBE, SAVED BY THE UK GOVERNMENT The government has agreed a rescue plan for the UK’s regional airline Flybe. The Government will work with Flybe to agree a repayment plan for a significant tax debt that is believed to be over UK£100 million Eight million passengers fly with the airline each year and it is a vital connectivity link for dozens of UK domestic routes that are not flown by other airlines, making it the largest carrier to fly out of some regional airports, like Newquay. Therefore, Flybe plays a critical and unique role in the UK aviation system, supporting the development of the regions, providing essential connectivity to businesses and stimulating the growth in trade The government has promised to review the UK£26 air passenger duty that is levied on domestic UK return fights, which has added to the airline's losses.

Flybe, which flies to 170 different destinations, has been struggling under the weight of an estimated UK£106 million bill for air passenger duty as well as a slowdown in demand that has hurt the airline's finances.

ETIHAD AIRWAYS FLIES ‘ECO-FLIGHT’ FROM ABU DHABI TO BRUSSELS As part of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2020, Etihad Airways flew a special ‘eco-flight’ from Abu Dhabi to Brussels, which featured a range of initiatives designed to highlight the airline’s sustainable practices in the air and on the ground.

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, consumes at least 15% less fuel than any aircraft type previously flown by the airline. The aircraft followed an optimised flight route to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions.

Other initiatives undertaken before, during and after the flight included fuel optimisation measures and a range of cabin service suppliers to highlight opportunities to reduce the airline’s impact on the environment.

This decade will see greater focus on sustainable aviation, with the increased emphasis on aviation’s 2.5% of global CO2 emissions; the industry needs to do its best.

Etihad has also partnered with Boeing to investigate green technologies on a Boeing 787 that will be called the ‘Greenliner’.

SWEDEN SEES FALL IN AIR PASSENGER NUMBERS Sweden has seen a 4% drop in the number of people flying via its airports thought to be the knock on of the ‘flight shaming’ movement, as well as the Swedish aviation tax, the weak Swedish crown, etc. To date over 22,500 people have signed a pledge to not fly in 2020.

In 2019, 40 million people travelled through the country's 10 airports, compared to 42 million in 2018. Domestic travel was also less by 9%.

‘Flygskam’ or ‘flight shame’ began in Sweden in 2017, when a Swedish singer announced he would give up flying, following that, climate change campaigner Greta Thunberg, also from Sweden, crossed the Atlantic in a zero-emissions yacht to attend a UN conference.

Previously, the only drop in flying was seen immediately after the 9/11 attacks in 2001.

Overall, Europe is seeing increased numbers of people flying with 1.1 billion passengers in 2018, up from 1 billion in 2017. In 2018, the UK saw over 272 million passengers, up from 264 million in 2017.

IATA expects global passenger numbers could double to 8.2 billion by 2037, with cities in Asia expected to overtake European cities in regards to air passenger markets.

STANSTED AIRPORT EXPANSION PLAN New expansion plans for Stansted Airport are to be decided soon allowing it to increase passenger numbers to a maximum of 43 million a year. Stansted currently handles 28 million passengers a year, and already has permission to increase capacity to 35 million.

Part of the UK£35 million investment would also see more than UK£15m for transport infrastructure including work on junction 8 on the M11 which serves the airport.

Plans for a new UK£150 million arrivals terminal were put on hold last year. The project was meant to have been completed this year as part of a UK£600 million plan to increase capacity and facilities.

TURKISH AIRLINES MORE FEMALE PILOTS THAN ANY OTHER AIRLINE Turkish Airlines currently has 211 female pilots. Following the joining of the first 6 female pilots, by the end of 2019 the figure reached 211 women pilots; the fastest rise than any other airline in the world. Their pilots fly long and short haul and to date there are 39 captains and 172 st 1 Officers. The pilots are from all over the world

AIR KIRIBATI GETS 1st E190-E2 JET Air Kiribati has received its first E190-E2 jet.

Connectivity is crucial to the Republic of Kiribati. The airline ordered two E190-E2s and has the option of a further 2 aircraft.

Air Kiribati is the launch operator for the E190-E2 in Asia Pacific.

Configured in a dual-class layout with 92 seats with 12 seats in business class and 80 seats in economy class.

Located in the central Pacific, Air Kiribati can now fly longer domestic and international routes than before.

The E190-E2 has a maximum range of up to 2,850 nautical miles, meaning the aircraft can serve destinations throughout the vast expanse of Kiribati, including nonstop from Tarawa to Kiritimati (Christmas) Island, one of the most challenging routes in the Pacific.

The current domestic flight from Tarawa to Kiritimati requires an international stopover in Fiji

BELUGAXL ENTERS SERVICE FOR AIRBUS

The BelugaXL has begun flying giving Airbus 30% extra transport capacity in order to support the on-going production ramp-up of commercial aircraft programmes. st

This is the 1 of 6 BelugaXL to start operations alongside the BelugaST predecessors, with the additional aircraft being introduced between 2020 and 2023.

At 63m long and 8m wide, the BelugaXL has the largest cargo bay cross-section of all existing cargo aircraft worldwide. It can carry two A350 XWB wings compared to the BelugaST, which can only carry one. It has a maximum payload of 51 tonnes, and a range of 4,000kms.

The BelugaXL is based on an A330-200 freighter and is powered by Rolls Royce Trent 700 engines.

KENYA AIRWAYS AND BRITISH AIRWAYS INTERLINE PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN EUROPE AND AFRICA Kenya Airways and British Airways have enhanced their interline partnership on flights behind British Airways’ hubs in London Heathrow and Kenya Airways’ hub at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

This partnership will allow Kenya Airways customers to access British Airways’ extensive network especially in the UK, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece, Switzerland and other destinations in Europe. British Airways, passengers will be able to connect through the Nairobi Hub to Kenya Airways’ huge African network in destinations in East, Central and Southern Africa among other African points.

Photo of the Month Lugano, Switzerland, January 2020

Š 2020 Mice and Tourism around the World Magazine

by Dimitri Laspas

Palace Hotel, Tokyo, Japan

For business and pleasure when we travel the world you want to stay somewhere that feels like home from home, but with a touch of elegance, simplicity, luxury or cosiness.

You would think that only the biggest names in the accommodation industry can offer the best, but that is far from the truth. As MICE & TOURISM around the world e-magazine and BML International-UK, have indeed travelled the world during 2019, we have stayed in some fabulous properties. Here is our guide to some tried and tested wonderful places to stay that truly add to the experience of the trip be it for business or pleasure.

PALACE HOTEL TOKYO, JAPAN - www.palacehoteltokyo.com With a stunning view across the Imperial Palace Gardens, the regal feel spreads from the immaculate gardens into the hotel with serene and refined hospitality yet with understated luxury throughout. The cosy and contemporary interiors take inspiration f rom the capital’s much loved natural splendour. With 10 restaurants & bars to choose from as well as a Cake and Pastry shop, you stay would not be complete without a visit to the Evian SPA one of Tokyo’s most refined wellness experiences blending French and Asian therapies.

GRAND PORT SUITES, THESSALONIKI, GREECE www.grandportsuites.gr This unassuming hotel offers incredible hospitality with the utmost high quality luxurious simplicity and offers great value for money.

Located in Thessaloniki, just 10 minute walk from the heart of the city and 5 minute walk from the city’s Central Railway Station, it is ideally placed.

The rooms are modern yet comfortable and offer crisp chic natural colours.

With many services available not usually found in this size of hotel your will be delightfully surprised at this stunning hotel.

HOTEL PACAI, VILNIUS, LITHUANIA - www.hotelpacai.com Set in the heart of Lithuania’s Capital, Vilnius Old Town, the Hotel PACAI perfectly reflects the 17th -century Baroque grandeur, with a chic contemporary twist. A famous former magnificent mansion in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, your stay in its majestic rooms offers pure elegance and luxury. Huge marbled bathrooms and sweeping curtains are met with all the modern facilities one could need. With a cosy restaurant and homely bar, this is the perfect place to stay.

BEIT ZAFRAN HOTEL, DAMASCUS, SYRIA www.beitzafran.com Here you feel the spirit of Old Damascus. Set in a quiet urban hideaway tucked in a historical neighbourhood of churches, mosques, souks and winding streets, once inside the house’s charm and sophistication fills you ever breath.

This former Ottoman mansion (built in 1836) offers 12 exquisite rooms and suites built around the house’s two inner courtyards with magnificent original marble fountains.

The Shai lounge, located in the old reception hall offers splendidly decorated high ceilings.

La Veranda located on the roof terrace offer lush dining and relaxation with a stunning view of the Old City and Qassioun Mountain.

Mooneh is a in the old vaulted cellar and gives for a chic more intimate, romantic setting to enjoy a delicious meal.

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VINPEARL LUXURY LANDMARK 81, HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM www.vinpearl.com/landmark81/en/homepage/ Set on the picturesque, bank of the Saigon River, this new hotel is the tallest hotel in Vietnam and South East Asia.

It offers an incredible ‘Luxury defined by Vietnam’ experience, offering guests a choice of 223 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites with contemporary design, bespoke furniture and unmatched, breath taking panoramic views of the city.

Choose from the Oriental Pearl restaurant where Vietnamese culinary heritage blends with an international flavour. Or the Blu Pearl Bar with panoramic views of the city and the Saigon River; The Far East Lounge on the 48th floor, boasts a distinctively contemporary design with comfortable indoor and outdoor areas.

CA' RAGIONATI VENICE, ITALY www.viewsonvenice.com/rentals/apartmentvenice-ca-ragionati-272068.html Managed by View of Venice, take a trip back to the Renaissance; to opulence and glamour, but with all the modern chic elegance and facilities of modern life.

You will not be disappointed staying in any one of the apartments in this 17th century building. With chandeliers and stone staircases, to grand Venetian style paintings and stuccos and Persian carpets.

Views onto the Gondola filled canals and the Baroque façade of the Church of Saint Moise.

Here you are ideal located to explore all the waterways of Venice and beyond.

INDIGO HOTEL, STRATFORD UPON AVON, UK www.stratford.hotelindigo.com Contemporary accommodation with a traditional twist is the style here with subtle homage to the towns famous author, William Shakespeare seen in the 93 guest rooms. Showcasing the traditional 16th century building, the charm of the Georgian Townhouse and the modern contemporary wing, makes a stay here like no other.

With the Falcon bar being the oldest in the town and the famous Woodsman Restaurant with local produce and wine, it’s a win-win stay! There is a small gym too, which helps to burn off the fabulous food on offer!

VILLA SPHENDONE SUITES HOTEL, ISTANBUL, TURKEY www.villasphendone.com This splendid villa style hotel is located next to the impressive ancient ruins of Sphendone dating back to the Roman period, hence the deep sense of an old Turkish street reflecting the traditional taste of local culture. Covering 2 floors and 4 rooms furnished in the 19th century Turkish style in which traditional taste and Western influence blend harmoniously. With a unique homely atmosphere, personalised service and spacious rooms, stunning furnishings this is a must stay place in Istanbul.

THE RIZQUN INTERNATIONAL HOTEL, BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, BRUNEI www.rizquninternational.com Located in the heart of Brunei's retail and entertainment district and just 10 minutes from Brunei International Airport, this grand hotel offer breath-taking views of the Gadong skyline.

With 168 rooms and suites the Premier Club Floor offers excellent hospitality.

With facilities including the Rizqun Coffee House, Rizqun Poolside Bar and the Mall Shopping Arcade, everything is all close by.

PALACE OF CASCAIS CITADEL, CASCAIS, PORTUGAL www.pestanacollection.com/en/hotel/fortress-cascais This historic 5* hotel located in Cascais and offers lovely sea views as well as Cascais marina. Centrally located just 5mins walk from town centre, a stay here offers an indoor pool or the outdoor swimming pool surrounded by the Fortaleza gardens. Also take in the interesting DĂŠjĂ Lu charity bookstore, the Spa and gym. A choice of two restaurants and a bar complete the package!

With Author themed rooms and rooms in the historic fort this is a one-of-a-kind stay.

MAI HOUSE SAIGON, VIETNAM - www.maihouse.com Discover luxurious accommodation and seamless Vietnam-inspired hospitality at this chic and stylish hotel. Old-world elegance transports you back to the glamorous days of luxury, with gorgeous French-Indochinese design and charming colonial flair at every turn. With world-class dining and entertainment, a rejuvenating spa, fitness facilities, lush pool deck, and an amazing ballroom, your stay here delivers gracious hospitality.

GOLDEN TULIP ADDIS ABABA HOTEL, ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA https://addis-ababa.goldentulip.com This centrally located 5 star upscale hotel offers 90 unique and comfortable rooms, elegantly decorated with local artwork making it a special stay.

With fine dining, meeting and leisure facilities, the hotel is conveniently located just 1km from Bole International Airport.

The highlight though, is the Havana Bar, designed as a cosy VIP bar that takes you away from the hustle and bustle of Addis with its chic relaxing ambience.

Tourism News Europe, Americas, Asia & Africa

Alexander the Great monument, Thessaloniki, Central Macedonia, Greece

JAPANESE BILLIONAIRE IN SEARCH FOR MOON PARTNER The Japanese billionaire fashion businessman, Mr Yusaku Maezawa is due to be the first civilian to fly around the moon on Elon Musk’s Space X's maiden tourist voyage to the Moon, scheduled for 2023.

Mr Maezawa is looking for a female ‘life partner’ to join him and experience this unique excursion with him. He has launched a website for applicants that include a list of conditions and a schedule for the three-month long application process.

Founder of Japanese online clothing retailer Zozo Inc, Mr Maezawa plans to take a group of artists with him on the flight to the moon, as he spends a lot of his wealth on artwork.

STRONG DYNAMICS OF THESSALONIKI CENTRAL MACEDONIA, GREECE IN CONFERENCE AND GENERAL TOURISM

AND

The strong potential of Thessaloniki and other regions of Central Macedonia as an ideal destination for conference and general tourism was recorded in the Central Macedonia Region's participation in two major international tourism fairs – ‘CONVENTA 2020’ and ‘Holiday World Show’.

The Region of Central Macedonia participated for the first time with great success at the CONVENTA 2020 exhibition in Ljubljana, Slovenia, one of the most targeted conference tourism fairs in Europe, where it supported Central Macedonia's emergence as the ideal choice for large event conferences.

At the same time, the Region of Central Macedonia joined forces with the Thessaloniki and Halkidiki Tourism Organisations and provided a potential ‘presence’ at the Holiday Tourism World Tourism Fair in Dublin, where it was the only Region present at the exhibition.

During the two international tourism fairs, meetings were held with representatives of companies, scientific associations and conference and motivational travel organisers from all major markets. Everyone's interest focused on organising small and flexible conferences, for which Thessaloniki and other cities in Central Macedonia have the infrastructure to support and combine them with other tourism products in the region, such as natural tourism, tourism and cultural tourism.

Central Macedonia is also seeing a growing share of the Irish market, thanks to Dublin's direct air link with Thessaloniki during the April-October period, which launched last year. The majority of Irish potential tourists are between 35-70 years old, families with children and senior citizens, mainly interested in sightseeing, outdoor activities and gastronomy. Central Macedonia was presented as an ideal tourist destination that, in addition to relaxing holidays with ‘sun-sea’, offers city tourism and a wide variety of cultural and amusement tourism combining excellent gastronomy with fine local produce.

MORE CHINESE TOURISTS EXPECTED IN THE GULF The number of Chinese tourists arriving to the GCC is expected to rise by 54% from 1.4 million in 2018 to 2.2 million in 2023. The UAE will continue to be the preferred GCC destination for Chinese tourists, welcoming a projected 1.9 million visitors by 2023.

China will also maintain its position as a top source market across the GCC, particularly in the UAE, where Chinese visitors are currently the 2nd and 4th highest ranked source markets for Abu Dhabi and Dubai, respectively. Saudi Arabia will follow with 1 million visitors, while Oman will welcome 76,900, Bahrain 26,300 and Kuwait 2,800.

Chinese tourists are the world’s highest spenders while travelling abroad, with total outbound travel and tourism expenditure reaching UK£212 billion in 2018.

VISITBRITAIN/VISITENGLAND REPORTS ON YEAR OF TOURISM GROWTH Visitors spent UK£951 million in Britain in the last financial year as a result of activity by national tourism agency VisitBritain/VisitEngland.

So, for every UK£ invested in the agency visitors spent UK£23 in Britain. As well as the UK Government investment, the agency attracted UK£11.5 million of investment in cash and in-kind from commercial partners and delivered UK£1.9 million profit from its online shop, money which is reinvested into its activities to grow the value of tourism.

London, United Kingdom

The inbound tourism forecast for 2020 sees spending by overseas visitors predicted to reach a record £26.6 billion in 2020, a 6.6% increase on the expected spending in 2019 of UK£25 billion.

The number of overseas visits to the UK is forecast to rise this year to 39.7 million, the highest ever, and up 2.9% on 2019.

During the last decade inbound tourism visits to the UK have grown 33% and spending by 58%.

Looking longer-term the ambition is to grow inbound visitor spending to UK£35 billion with 49 million inbound visits by 2025.

Growth from Europe had slowed and VisitBritain was working with the tourism industry to launch a new campaign in the spring to ensure Europeans book trips this year, as well as inform European visitors about the practicalities of travel after the UK’s departure from the EU. Domestic tourism had also seen success with strong growth in short breaks. Domestic tourism accounts for almost 80% of all tourism activity and about UK£72 billion is spent annually by domestic tourists in England. This growth has been supported by the Discover England Fund launched in 2015 to develop world-class tourism products that had helped to bring 60 new projects and 700 products to market.

TURKEY TARGETS 58 MILLION TOURISTS IN 2020 WITH FOCUS ON DOMESTIC TOURISM In 2020, Turkey aims to attract 58 million foreign tourists and with it over US$40 billion tourism revenues. In 2019 unconfirmed figures are the nation welcomed 51 million tourists and generated approx. US$34 billion in tourism revenue. The target to 2023 is to reach 75 million foreign visitors and US$65 billion in revenue.

Turkey’s domestic tourism has also seen rapid growth over the past 5 years with most trips for leisure, visiting family, and health tourism. This sector will continue to be a focus into 2020.

The Temple of Ephesus, Turkey

TOURISTS DAMAGED MACHU PICCHU ARE DEPORTED & BARRED FROM PERU

Machu Picchu, Peru

Five tourists who damaged Peru's Machu Picchu sacred site have been deported back to Bolivia and barred from returning to the country for 15 years.

The tourists - 2 Brazilians, an Argentine, a Chilean and a French citizen had been given the maximum punishment with expulsion. A sixth tourist, from Argentina faces a trial which could mean he is jailed for 4 years.

SOUTH AFRICA SET FOR INCREASED ARRIVALS FROM INDIA Following a South African 2 day successful market roadshow to Mumbai, India, last month, the roadshow saw enthusiastic meetings with tour operators, destination management companies, film producers and potential investors as South Africa increases its efforts to unlock market opportunities including its aim to double international tourist arrivals from 10.5 million to 21 million by 2030. “India remains one of our key trading partners and priority market for driving arrival numbers to South Africa. We will continue to invest in our marketing and engagement efforts, both with our trade partners and travellers, while providing diversified tourist products,� said the Minister Kubayi-Ngubane.

South African Tourism is strengthening its strategy to tap into the Indian market potential with a forecasted 1.3% rise in Indian traveller arrivals to South Africa in 2020. South Africa is promoting new products and the wide geographical extend of South Africa and unique tourism products in its less visited provinces.

Figures show that Indian tourists spend more, have longer vacations as well as exploring and experiencing more activities than ever before.

This highlights the potential growth in the market and as such a trial of e-visas was under consideration for Indian tourists.

Air connectivity is another key driver for outbound travel for business tourism from India, so efforst are being made to resume the Mumbai-Johannesburg direct route.

Cape Town, South Africa

AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT ALLOCATES FUNDS TO HELP COUNTRY’S TOURISM INDUSTRY The Australian government has allocated UK£39 million from its UK£1.02 billion bushfire recovery fund to revive the country’s tourism sector.

The money will help small businesses and local economies to get back on their feet and help people whose jobs affected by the fire by encouraging tourists to travel in Australia again.

Almost 60% of the fund will be used for domestic and international marketing campaigns. Tourism Australia is creating a domestic tourism campaign to encourage Australians to holiday in Australia, and thereby giving much needed support to the affected areas, but is also aims to encourage them to support the country’s entire tourism sector.

The international campaign will help protect and restore Australia’s reputation as an international tourism destination that is safe and open for business.

The government has also committed a further UK£5.10 to promote regional tourism events.

Many countries have advised their citizens not to visit Australia, including the USA, Hong Kong and Papua New Guinea. Approximately 800,000 US tourists visit Australia each year; with the photos of the fires, it is feared numbers of arrivals from all over the world will decline significantly.

CHINA’S HIGH SPEED TRAINS TO CONNECT MORE CITIES A new prototype maglev train with a top speed of 600kph has been announced in a bid to connect more Chinese cities to boost regional integration and economic growth.

The city of Chengdu plans for a highspeed maglev line with top speeds of 800kph to neighbouring Chongqing. Other high speed lines are being considering in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. With these high speed trains reaching close to aircraft cruising speeds, they are fast, safe, reliable and are low maintenance.

NEW 7-NIGHT PANAMA CANAL CRUISES Pearl Seas Cruises is offering a new 7-night Panama Canal cruise that will sail between Cartagena, Colombia, and Panama City, Panama, and include a pre-cruise hotel stay.

The cruises will be operated by the Pearl Mist, a 210-passenger, allprivate balcony, fully stabilised ship.

The itinerary includes the San Blas Islands, Gatun Lake, and the Las Perlas Archipelago.

ACCOMMODATION IN COVENTRY CITY OF CULTURE VISITORS The UK city of Coventry has been awarded the City of Culture in 2021, however, at present there are limited accommodation options for the expected 2.5m visitors during the event.

Currently the city has 4,700 hotel beds and 2 more hotels set to open. However the city is looking at alternative accommodation options like University rooms, Airbnb, as well as working with the surrounding towns to help accommodate visitors. Overall, by the time of the event, the City is confident that accommodation will be secured for all the guests, just not all in the city itself.

The historical district of Coventry, United Kingdom

Coventry was announced as the next UK City of Culture in 2017, so they have been planning for this for several years. In 2017, the city of Hull, was the UK's city of culture and saw 4.7m people visit the city during the year.

The Telegraph Hotel will open in 2020 and will offer an 88-bed boutique hotel in the former Coventry Telegraph building. A 100-bed hotel in Friargate is set to open in Spring 2021.

Coventry also plans to use camping sites to accommodate guests in 2021 and the council hopes people will invite friends and family to stay in their homes.

The city has also received interest from developers wishing to create ‘pop-up’ accommodation including Yurts or hostels. Swanswell Gate is one of only 2 remaining city gates in Coventry; the Historic Coventry Trust is already working to transform iconic buildings into accommodation.

BORNEOGUIDE Set up in 2000, over 30,000 tourists have experienced BorneoGuide services. Founder Leslie Chiang has been passionate about ecotourism for 2 decades and worked in tourism for even longer.

BeorneoGuide is a social enterprise that promotes sustainable ecotourism in and around Brunei Darussalam. The company’s tour packages fit various paces and budgets for travellers exploring the nation. The tours operate in small numbers and give a more tailor made personal experience.

The company also caters for corporate events and team building activities while supporting local, youth and community events and activities.

Sumbiling Eco Village operates under BeorneoGuide. Located at Sumbiling Lama in the Temburong district, it operates as a sustainable model for ecotourism. Guests have the opportunity to meet with local villagers, their nature skills and rainforest knowledge that will enrich their experience. Offering basic structures and local meals, this is an experience that gets close to nature. It is one of the few ‘glamping’ spots in Borneo catering to likeminded tourists with added features such as waterfall activities and nature trekking to the Ulu Temburong National Park.

In line with the Brunei government initiative ‘Vision 2035’, to provide skilled labour and combat unemployment, the company has begun the i-Ready Apprenticeship programme and also works with students from higher institutes from around Brunei.

FROM PRISON TO PARADISE FERNANDO DE NORONHA ISLAND, BRAZIL

by Aristo-Alejandro Torres

Brazil’s remote Fernando de Noronha archipelago is made up of 21 beautiful volcanic islands, located 350km off Brazil’s north-east coast. Since 1988, 75% of the islands have been protected as a national marine park and sanctuary. As a result only 500max people a day are allowed to visit the islands after paying an environmental preservation fee.

Needless to say Noronha is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It may be small, but it caught the eye of Charles Darwin who visited the island in the 1830s. His findings inspired further research by other biologists and ecologists.

It is hard to believe that the main island was once a prison for Brazil’s most serious criminals. In the late 18th century, a prison was built and it was continuously used for both criminals and political prisoners until it was shut in 1957.

However, some former prisoners decided not to leave and made the islands their home, many of their ancestors still live there today.

Today, Fernando de Noronho is in a league of its own when it comes to pure paradise. It is an ecowonderland with dramatic rock formations, magical sunsets, warm emerald clear waters, with a diverse wildlife including, seabirds, reptiles, and several endemic species , marine life including corals, sharks, lobsters, turtles, tropical fish as well as the highest concentration of Spinner dolphins in the world, which just add to its stunning pristine golden beaches.

The islands beaches regularly appear as some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, such as Praia dos Porcos, Praia dos Leões, and Baía do Sancho.

Noronha is also one of the best places for diving and surfing. In addition there is a diverse range of activities on the island for all people and ages, like ecological trails, boat tours for observing dolphins, visits to Parque Nacional Marinho and Museu do Tubarão, as well as visiting the Tamar project, which preserves endangered Green and Hawksbill sea turtles. Its lush green interior sees explosions of greenery and exotic wildlife, there are 15 endemic plant species and two endemic birds.

www.bmlinternational.co.uk

Fernando de Noronha's economy depends on tourism, restricted by the limitations of its delicate ecosystem. Even with limited tourists, the archipelago inhabitants give tourists a warm welcome, because they know that all activities are fully and carefully controlled.

Tourists visit the islands because they want to fit into their destination in an environmentally friendly way; this, combined with the inhabitants of Fernando de Noronha wanting to preserve the natural environment of their home is a top priority.

Despite its remoteness, the island is more expensive than other Brazilian destinations, partly as everything has to be imported, but it also means standards are also high and there are some great restaurants too.

There is no doubt, that this is a unique luxury bucket-list destination that has gone from rags to riches!

www.miceandtourismaroundtheworld.com

www.gtourtravel.com www.aite.gr https://philoxenia.helexpo.gr/en

www.convene.lt

YOUR LUXURY ECO-RESORT IN THIS MOST BEAUTIFUL PART OF INDIA. After the success of the Koti Resort in Himachal Pradesh and having 25 years’ experience in the hospitality industry as well as having 1,000 years of ancestral roots in the village of Manaswal, the stunning Gaj Resort was created to promote the natural beauty of the area and at the same time give back to the local community by adding to the economic development. Keeping in mind the ecological sensitivity of the area, Gaj Retreat was designed as a luxury Eco-Resort and Spa. Gaj Retreat features exotic luxury in complete harmony with nature.

Located on a plateau, nestled in a forest reserve full of wildlife, just 20min drive from Nangal and 2hrs from Chandigarh, guests can relax and enjoy all that the great outdoors has to offer.

Every aspect of the retreat is designed to be environmentally friendly, built using local materials and manpower to reduce the impact on the environment. The retreat has extensive recycling and refuge-elimination programmes to offset its carbon footprint.

Accommodation is in Luxury tents, chateaux or suites.

-The super Luxury Tents provide a private and exclusive escape. The dĂŠcor is crafted to echo a vintage feel and let guests experience the bygone era of luxury safari camps.

-The Suites are lavishly adorned luxurious hotel rooms with private pools with separate luxurious living and bedroom areas. The rooms are wellequipped with modern amenities.

-The Signature Chateaus offer a gorgeous view of the forest from the private balcony with a spacious bedroom and a private pool.

With many treatments on offer at the Spa & Wellness Centre, you can also indulge in an exclusive Outdoor Massage Area as well as take part in Yoga, Pilates and Aqua Fitness.

During your stay, there is also plenty of opportunities to explore the local area via conservation experiences and an array of unique adventure activities.

At Gaj Retreat is also one of the most exotic places in the region to host an event. From weddings, parties, gala dinners, special occasions to incentives and annual meetings, Corporate Retreats, and teambuilding, the Gaj offers various areas of flexible space.

This spacious, luxury venue is an expansive over 2800sq.ft of pillar less area which features a 35ft high ceiling. What adds to the grandeur is the beautiful sculpting done in this space. The Gaj Ballroom offers spectacular views of nature.

It is amongst the largest conferencing/banqueting venues in the region. The Gaj Ballroom also features additional event spaces, including a light-filled foyer, an adjacent nature view patio, an exotic pool side area and a sprawling lawn area.

From the moment you set foot in the property you will be mesmerised by the stunning landscapes, dramatic sunsets and starry nights.

So, whether for leisure, business or events, the Gaj Resorts offers a truly unique resort in an authentic Manaswal.

EXHIBITIONS STILL THE GATEWAY FOR BUSINESS

by Dimitri Laspas

Compared to 20 years ago, our lives today run around digital applications, online systems, virtual replacements and many more high tech equipment. Indeed they are designed to make our lives easier, safer even, and be instantaneous.

You would therefore think that attending an exhibition in person located half way around the world is just no longer necessary anymore.

How wrong you would be!

As humans we are social creatures and as much as we think we are being social on ‘social’ media, or via online chat programmes, we like to meet up and chat face to face, to see, smell, touch (handshake!) and engage with the person we are talking to. That does not happen over a video conference call.

We are living in a mobile world; we can work remotely from the office, or from a hotel room thousands of miles away, but there comes a point when human contact is needed, be it to go into your office for a meeting, but also it is proven in the positive growing number of exhibitions and boutique events that take place all over the world and all receiving attendees coming from far and wide to be a part of them.

It doesn’t matter if you are a large corporation or a small family run business, you will still gain a lot from attending a dedicated industry sector event.

The travel industry is one of the world’s largest industries and there are probably three events you could attend every week of the year somewhere in the world. Some events attract thousands of exhibitors and visitors and secure thousands of pounds of business deals.

They will also make hundreds of new contacts, be introduced to new products, and have the chance to learn about the latest trends and sector developments as well as attend educational seminars and/or speeches. Even smaller regional events attract regional suppliers yet see international buyers. You may attend an event with ten meetings scheduled, but once the event is over, you will have met us with triple that number of people through new introductions and networking ‘in person’ at the exhibition.

There is no match for getting to know the person you are hoping to do business with. This way you understand their customs and culture better; for example the business etiquette in dealing with Japanese businesspeople can only be successful in person. It is the trust shown in that person that secures the deal more than anything else. You cannot achieve that via a computer chat or whats app.

While modern technology is a wonderful tool for quick dealings and staying in brief communication, serious business still ha s to done best when face to face. What will change in the next decade or sooner, with be the support systems we are expected to use while attending these exhibitions, show apps, online meeting schedules, face recognition ticket entry, AI welcome desks, suppo rting meetings with VR programmes and then there will be Augmented Reality – holographic images welcoming you to stands before your meeting in person begins!

What is sure is that irrespective of the magic and excitement that new technologies bring, the bottom line still remains that both exhibitors and visitors all attend events in order to meet participants ‘face-to-face’ because they are genuinely interested with the services and the products of the participants, therefore making it worth the effort to attend. An exhibition provides a platform to establish new business contacts, develop existing business relations and make new agreements.

Welcome to the future – Welcome to attending Exhibitions!