Travel Trade Cyprus February 2015

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FEBRUARY 2015

ISSUE 24

ELEFTHERIA SQUARE PROJECT PROGRESSES LIMASSOL HAS BEEN VOTED AS EUROPE’S TOP RISING DESTINATION, BY THE TRIPADVISOR COMMUNITY. THE CYPRIOT COASTAL CITY STOLE THE SPOTLIGHT FROM BODRUM, TURKEY AND KAZAN, RUSSIA.

03 GERMAN TOURIST ARRIVALS ON THE RISE

04 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE

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NICOSIA

03

TRAVEL AGENTS

09

TOURISM BOARDS

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AIR

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ACCOMMODATION

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TRAVEL CHANNELS

16

RENDEZVOUS

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TRAVEL TALK

18

IN FOCUS

19

NEWS & EVENTS

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LIMASSOL: EUROPE’S TOP RISING DESTINATION

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MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS

MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel

Cyprus Air Traffic Declines According to data recently released by Eurostat, the number of air passengers in Cyprus decreased by 4.3 percent year-on-year in 2013.

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ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba

his was despite the fact that on average, across the 28 member states of the European Union, the number of air travellers rose by 1.7 percent between 2012 and 2013.

As per the report, the Mediterranean island experienced the second largest fall in figures, while Estonia came in at first place with traffic declining some 11.1 percent.

Overall in 2013, 842 million passengers commuted by air in the 28 member countries.

CONTRIBUTORS Dominique Christou Ana Mladenovic PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou

ITTL Trade Tourist & Leisure Park Denies Rumours for Mall Sale

WEB DEVELOPER / IT Soteris Constantinou DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670 WEBSITE www.traveltradecyprus.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradecyprus.travel PRINTED IN CYPRUS Cyprinters Ltd P.O. Box 58300, CY-3732, Limassol, Cyprus Tel: +357 25 720035, Fax: +357 25 720123 Email: info@cyprinters.com

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ITTL Trade Tourist & Leisure Park rejected reports suggesting that the sale of Nicosia’s Mall of Cyprus is imminent.

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he company referred to the content of its earlier official statement on the same subject and reiterated that there are no advanced talks whatsoever for the sale of its shopping centres in the capital city, namely the Mall of Cyprus and the Mall of Engomi.

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CTC Improves Net Profit

Cyprus Trading Corporation (CTC), member of Shacolas Group and shareholder of Hermes Airports, announced the indicative results for the first nine months of 2014, which showed that the turnover for CTC amounted to EUR222.03 million, signalling a year-on-year decrease of 2.28 percent.

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owever, it is noted that the figures were positively affected by the sale of the investment in CTC-Ari which operates the retail outlets in Larnaca and Paphos airports, as well as the investment into Cyprus Airports (F&B) which operates the food and beverage outlets in both hubs.

Following the deduction of operating expenses, depreciation, taxation and other expenses, net profit for the period under review reached EUR39 million, up from EUR11.02 million recorded in the first nine months of 2013.

Larnaka International Airport

FEBRUARY 2015

NICOSIA MONTHLY NEWS Nicosia’s City Centre to Get a Boost

Eleftheria Square Project Progresses

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icosia Municipality has signed a EUR13.5 million contract with Lois Builders for the completion of the Eleftheria Square development.

The project, which began in mid-January, is slated for completion in 64 weeks and focusses on the rehabilitation of Nicosia’s Eleftheria Square and its surrounding area.

Planned works include the construction of a bridge, landscaping, corrective works on the walls, electromechanical and lighting works, installation of street furniture, and the construction of stores and sanitary facilities.

The project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund, the state budget and Nicosia Municipality.

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ccessibility of the capital’s historic centre is set to significantly improve, following Nicosia Municipality’s decision to purchase 13 minibuses that will connect it with the greater urban area.

The buses, due to be delivered in eight months, aim to help revive economic and other activities in the city centre and promote sustainable transport systems, leading to a gradual reduction in the use of private cars within the walls.

Valued at some EUR1.14 million, the deal for the purchase of the low-floor buses, which will be able to carry about 20 passengers, was signed by Constantinos Yiorkadjis, mayor, Nicosia, and Alexis Anninos, general manager, Cyprus Import Corporation.

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Stasikratous Street Party Held

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n line with Nicosia Municipality’s efforts to revive the capital’s commercial centre, one of the city’s most commercial roads hosted the Stasikratous Street Party in December 2014.

For the eighth consecutive year, Stasikratous street saw a cheerleader parade, various other entertaining shows, a vintage car exhibition and DJs, as well as free coffee and Christmas delights offered. Moreover, charity organisations held bazaars selling cakes and festive decorations to collect donations.

FEBRUARY 2015

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MONTHLY NEWS German Tourist Arrivals on the Rise

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yprus attracted over 9,300 German visitors in November 2014, marking a year-on-year increase of 24.5 percent.

On the contrary, arrivals from the UK dropped 5.1 percent to 28,859, from Russia 25.2 percent to 8,728 and from Greece 10.4 percent to 7,534.

The island’s largest feeder market remained the UK, followed by Germany and Russia.

It is noteworthy that while in October 2014, 251,453 tourists flocked into the country, this number fell to 81,437 in November 2014.

All in all, Cyprus welcomed 2,384,375 visitors during the period between January and November 2014, up 1.4 percent compared to the corresponding period in 2013.

Eighth Round of Excavations Completed in Akrotiri

Cactuses Planted in Ayia Napa

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Ayia Napa Cactuses park

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yprus Ministry of Communications and Works and the Department of Antiquities announced the completion of the eighth season of excavations at Katalymata ton Plakoton on the Akrotiri Peninsula.

The mission was headed by Eleni Procopiou, senior archaeological officer, Department of Antiquities.

The ruins of the site surround a shallow basin of the Akrotiri forest and the excavations, conducted since 2007, run along the south wing of the complex which includes two churches, adjacent rooms for installations, a workshop, entrance openings, a large atrium/yard and more.

Over the past two years, marble and limestone fragments from columns and Corinthian capitals were found, as well as fragments of transenna chancels.

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he Mediterranean Dried Plant and Cactus Park of Ayia Napa welcomed its first residents, since the first cactuses were planted at the site.

The open space area hosting the municipality’s newest project is situated close to the sculpture park and plantation is expected to be completed by the end of March, when the facility will be inaugurated.

FEBRUARY 2015

MONTHLY NEWS Louis Cristal Crosses the Atlantic

Parliament Approves Casino Bill

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ouis Cruises announced a new era for Greek cruising with the departure of Louis Cristal from Piraeus for its first transatlantic cruise to Cuba.

During the 24-day journey, Louis Cristal will cross the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, while en route she will call at Marseille, Tangier, Funchal, Barbados, Santa Lucia and Jamaica, before reaching Cuba.

“Both the industry and our company are continuing on a path of significant growth, and we are extremely proud to serve as ambassadors for the industry and for our country,” said Kyriakos Anastasiadis, CEO, Louis Cruises.

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he Cypriot parliament passed into law a bill which controls the establishment, function, operations and organisation of casinos in the republic.

The bill provides for the establishment of a National Gaming and Casino Supervision Authority and defines its responsibilities, powers and issues associated with it, as well as the licensing and regulation of operations for integrated casino resorts.

Among other things, the document aims to confine gambling in Cyprus in a strictly controlled, integrated casino resort of international level, subject to the government’s firm control.

Louis Cristal

PwC Cyprus: Bold Moves and Reforms to Address Seasonality

Newest Addition to Pafos Zoo

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new survey carried out by PwC Cyprus highlighted five aspects of the Cypriot winter tourism product that require further improvement.

Those include the need to enhance special forms of tourism, to respond to tourists’ expectations when it comes to certain special forms of tourism, the pricecost correlation of the tourist product, the use of sustainability principles in defining the country as a winter destination and the selection of appropriate promotional channels, such as the Internet and social media networks.

During the presentation of the findings, Petros Petrakis, partner, hospitality and leisure, PwC Cyprus, stated that the survey aimed to identify the key characteristics of tourists visiting Cyprus during the winter season and to assess the country’s tourism product through their eyes and experiences.

FEBRUARY 2015

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afos Zoo welcomed the birth of its first Siberian tiger cub in November 2014.

The mother was not feeding the cub, thus Pafos Zoo intervened and hand-fed the young animal to give it its best chance of survival.

Home to an extensive variety of birds and animals, Pafos Zoo is set in a lush and unspoiled natural environment of more than 100,000m2.

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MONTHLY NEWS

LIMASSOL: EUROPE’S TOP RISING DESTINATION Limassol has been voted as Europe’s top rising destination, by the TripAdvisor community.

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he Cypriot coastal city stole the spotlight from Bodrum, Turkey and Kazan, Russia, ranked as second and third, respectively, on the website’s Destinations on the Rise list, which was compiled based on positive feedbacks and increased interest.

Globally, Limassol finished on the third place behind the Vietnamese hotspot Da Nang and Sihanoukville in Cambodia.

“The TripAdvisor community has helped surface some unheralded destinations across the globe that are receiving rave reviews from travellers worldwide,” noted Barbara Messing, chief marketing officer, TripAdvisor.

Limassol Marina

Paphos Listed as a Green Destination

TEBEA Encourages Active Participation

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ourist Commercial Industrial Company of Famagusta (TEBEA) has partnered with ALA Planning Partnership Consultancy and its associates to organise public discussions as a part of its efforts to prepare a Strategic Plan for the Promotion of Economic Development for the Government Controlled Part of the Famagusta District.

Discussions are to take place with organised groups from the area, and are aimed at recording views and suggestions relevant to the development of the region.

Sea Caves in Cavo Greco

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urther to the many ecotourism accolades the region of Paphos has received over the past years, the city has now been honoured by being included in the world’s 100 greenest holiday destinations.

The Sustainable Destinations Global Top 100 is created to celebrate the management efforts of the world’s most sustainable tourist destinations. The list is the result of open calls in the social media, followed by a selection process involving 30 international experts.

Paphos was included in the list as the implementation of a sustainable tourism strategy, for the city has contributed to the diversification of its tourism product and has reduced the effects of seasonality in a substantial manner.

FEBRUARY 2015

MONTHLY NEWS Ayia Napa to Welcome New Coastal Front

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ollowing the approval of the state’s budget plan, Ayia Napa announced that the town has been granted the right to receive a fund of EUR3.5 million. The govern-

mental support will be used to launch the rehabilitation project of the coastal front of Ayia Napa.

The first phase of the development is expected to start in September.

Ayia Napa

AEGEAN to Link Larnaca with Tel Aviv and Kiev

Tel Aviv

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EGEAN Airlines is to further boost its network and presence in Cyprus by commencing daily services between Larnaca and Tel Aviv and relaunching the Larnaca – Kiev route.

Taking advantage of the deregulation of traffic rights to the destination starting March 29, the Greek carrier will operate daily nonstop flights between Larnaca and the Israeli city. The inauguration of the route will be directly followed by the introduction of thrice weekly flights from the coastal town to the Ukrainian capital on March 31, two years after disrupting the service.

According to Dimitris Gerogiannis, CEO, AEGEAN Airlines, the new flights will support business growth and tourist footfall on the island.

FEBRUARY 2015

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MONTHLY NEWS Peninsula Villas Approaching Delivery

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imassol Marina announced that the Peninsula Villas featuring private berths or direct access to the beach, are expected to be completed in a few weeks’ time.

This year, Limassol Marina is set to become the only new luxury master plan development in the Mediterranean where you can drive up to one door and sail away from another. Starting from EUR1.7 million, prices for the villas include the berths attached to the property.

Selas Geographical Database Is Updated

Peninsula Villas

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elas geographical database has been updated and now includes hundreds of new roads and street names, as well as new points of interest (POIs) throughout Cyprus. The new POIs include banks, petrol stations, food and drink outlets, accommodation, public services, transportation, medical centres, sports centres and more.

Selas geodatabase is hailed as the most comprehensive geographical database for Cyprus as far as the road network is concerned and the quantity, variety and correctness of the POIs. All of the above are collected locally on a daily basis, are frequently revised and are subject to high quality control.

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FEBRUARY 2015

TRAVEL AGENTS MONTHLY NEWS

Austrian Agents Hold Conference in Cyprus

APG Appointed Air Europa’s GSA

New Winter Destinations from the UK Revealed

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he Austrian tour operators association, ÖVT, held its 34th annual general meeting in Cyprus. The event saw the participation of 60 travel agents and tour operators, as well as journalists from various Austrian media outlets.

In a bid to promote the island, Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) offered two day trips to all the participants in order to showcase Cypriot hospitality and the tourist product.

The trips included visits to the archaeological sites of Choirokitia and Kourion, the old town of Limassol and Lefkara village.

Moreover, the Austrian guests had the chance to explore Limassol Marina as well as taste some local wine at Ktima Dafermou.

FEBRUARY 2015

PG Cyprus has been chosen by Spanish carrier Air Europa as its general sales agent (GSA) in Cyprus.

In terms of the deal, APG Cyprus will be providing full sales and marketing services, as well as call centre and ticketing facilities across the island.

Sales activities will focus on promoting Air Europa’s extensive domestic network, which covers most of Spain, as well as its international operations that include services across Europe, America and North Africa, with a particular focus on the Latin American routes.

The Blue Lagoon, Paphos

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homson and First Choice revealed plans to increase capacity across regional airports for the 2015/2016 winter season, as well as a number of new routes.

These include the first Dreamliner flight from London Stansted Airport to Montego Bay, Jamaica; a new link to Costa Rica from Gatwick Airport plus an additional flight to Goa; new routes to Gran Canaria from Aberdeen and Edinburgh; extra services to Cancun from Birmingham and Lanzarote from Cardiff; and new links to Sal in Cape Verde, Hurghada in Egypt and Paphos in Cyprus from Bristol, among other novelties.

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MONTHLY NEWS TOURISM BOARDS

Paphos Sets Out Key Priorities

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afos Regional Board of Tourism has reiterated its determination to make the most of this year, setting out five basic priorities which are expected to aid the tourism industry, to enable penetration into new markets, to ease seasonality and to enhance the region’s tourism product.

The main points outlined include increased accessibility, which will be achieved though new air links to priority markets, and boosted competitiveness of the services offered, which will target hoteliers in order to make Paphos’ properties more attractive. Moreover, the board aims at enhancing visibility for Paphos, as well as upgrading the city’s tourist experience through infrastructure and attracting new tourism segments, while the utter goal is to expand the tourist season.

CTO Focusses on Russian Segment

Paphos

Paphos Presented to European Audiences

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yprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) announced that its board of directors is closely monitoring current developments within the international tourism industry and is doing everything possible to restrain losses in the number of tourists coming from Cyprus’ main feeder markets.

Russia is a specifically important segment for the country which remains under CTO’s microscope. According to the organisation, Russian arrivals to Cyprus increased by five percent in 2014, whereas for the same year there was a global decline in Russian travellers.

CTO’s announcement underlined that the authority will recalculate and reallocate its budget in order to come up with a dynamic promotional campaign in the markets of interest, thus increasing Cyprus’ chances for a better year.

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n January, Pafos Regional Board of Tourism promoted the region to various European destinations though a series of travel exhibitions. The first of those was held in Utrech, the Netherlands, The Dutch market is considered vital for Paphos especially since in 2014 the specific segment witnessed a yearon-year increase of 11 percent.

Moreover, between January 15 – 18, Pafos Regional Board of Tourism members took part in Vienna’s international tourism fair, while during the same period representatives of the authority also attended the Finnish Matka Nordic Travel Fair.

Despite the fact that arrivals from the Scandinavian country declined in 2014, there are positive indications for this year, according to the board.

Lastly, Pafos Regional Board of Tourism was also present at a dive show in Düsseldorf in order to promote the destination to diving and snorkelling enthusiasts.

Paphos’ team in Finland

FEBRUARY 2015

TOURISM BOARDS MONTHLY NEWS

Paphos Claims Funding through ECTN

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afos Regional Board of Tourism continues to enhance its efforts to secure European funding through its participation in the European Cultural Tourism Network (ECTN), with the latest meeting of the association being held in Athens in December 2014.

During the gathering, members of ECTN examined a large variety of actions for this year relating to industrial heritage tourism, interpretation facilities, intangible heritage , digitalisation and innovation.

ECTN is a pan-European network of destinations, authorities, non-governmental organisations and research institutes for the development and promotion of cultural tourism.

PCCI Inks MoC with Indian Association

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he Paphos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) signed a memorandum of cooperation (MoC) with All India Association of Industries, which was represented by Vijay Kalantri, president, All India Association of Industries.

Andreas Demetriades, chairman, PCCI, referred to the potentials in place between Cyprus and India, especially in the areas of health, tourism, services and real estate property development.

He also underlined that there are many advantages in setting up an Indian company in Cyprus, as it would function as the gateway for Indian products into the European Union.

CTO Promotes Wine Routes in London

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yprus Tourism Organisation (CTO)’s UK branch has held a promotional event for the wine routes project which was recently concluded on the island. Caroline Gilby, a wine specialist, attended the programme and praised the Cypriot vineyards and the way local winemakers preserve traditional methods of production, while at the same time many of them invest in modern facilities.

Orestis Rossides, director, UK, CTO, characterised the wine routes project as a special reference point to Cyprus’ tourist product, one which complements the island’s natural beauty and important historic and cultural monuments spread throughout the country.

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FEBRUARY 2015

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MONTHLY NEWS TOURISM BOARDS

CTO Explores Brits’ Addiction to Social Media

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o promote the island to the UK market, Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) commissioned a survey to explore the Brits’ attachment to their mobile devices when on holiday.

The results showed that one in five adults spend so much time uploading pictures and updates that they are missing out on life experiences, while for 16 – 44 year olds, that number rises to more than one in three. In its public relations campaign, CTO aimed to highlight Cyprus as an ideal winter holiday destination to relax and unwind, as the island offers the perfect backdrop for one’s selfies and social media snapshots.

An Austrian Who Turned Cypriot

CTO Honours Communities

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yprus Tourism Organisation officials met with an Austrian tourist who visits the island every year since 1995 to conclude that he is not an ordinary visitor. Oscar Kortan first came to Cyprus in 1954 and stayed to work as a geologist until 1971, helping him to learn to speak fluent Greek.

In the meeting he advised the organisation’s officials to develop mining tourism, since there are thousands of geologists and universities internationally engaged in studying mines and this form of tourism can bring income to the island.

K Amiantos mine

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yriakos Kyriakou, officer, quality assurance, Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO), was present at a ceremony to award specific communities for their environmental achievements.

The organisation has established the accolade to reward entities for their volunteer work in cleaning campaigns held across Nicosia.

One of the municipalities which were honoured with CTO’s award in 2014 was Psimolofou.

FEBRUARY 2015

AIR MONTHLY NEWS Thomson and First Choice Step Up Paphos Operations

Ryanair: Record Bookings from Cyprus

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yprus is set to welcome an increased number of travellers from the UK during the 2015/16 winter season thanks to Thomson Airways and First Choice’s new routes linking Paphos with Bristol and Edinburgh.

The new services will capitalise on the island’s popularity and allow customers to make the most of Thomas Cruises’ Cruise & Stay programmes in the region which also includes calls the Athens and Ashdod.

In addition, travellers will have even greater access to some of the companies’ flagship hotels, including Thomson Couples Constantinou Bros Pioneer Beach Hotel, Paphos, and the new Thomson Sensatori Aphrodite Hills, due to open in May.

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ypriot families are booking their summer holidays in record numbers and earlier than ever with Ryanair.

Based on the airline’s statistics, by Christmas 2014, more customers booked on its Cypriot routes than in any other year.

In fact, Ryanair was one of the first carriers in Cyprus to launch its summer schedule, three months earlier than in 2013, with more routes, more services, better timing and more perks.

This summer, Cypriot customers will be able to choose from 10 routes from Paphos with families enjoying additional benefits and discounts.

Wizz Air Links Larnaca and Katowice

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s part of the airline’s network development in Poland, Wizz Air plans to launch direct services between Katowice and Larnaca.

Starting June 26, the low-cost carrier will operate two weekly flights between the coastal destination and the southern Polish city on Wednesdays and Sundays.

The new route is part of Wizz Air’s Polish growth strategy which also includes additional services between Warsaw and Stavanger, Norway and from Katowice to Bristol, UK and Bologna, Italy.

In addition, starting June 26 and June 27 respectively, the airline will also offer more flights on two Gdansk routes to Trondheim, Norway, increasing to three weekly services, and London Luton, UK, operating three times per day.

FEBRUARY 2015

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MONTHLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION

Louis Hotels Wins Big with TripAdvisor

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Sommelier from Annabelle Wins Prestigious Competition

Louis Phaethon Beach

wo Louis Hotels’ properties have been voted among Europe’s five best all-inclusive resorts at this year’s TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice award.

Based on guest reviews, the four-star Louis Ledra Beach, Paphos, ranked second on the continent with some visitors describing it as the best-run hotel they have ever stayed at. Meanwhile, Louis Phaethon Beach, another four-star property, finished in the fifth place, getting rave reviews for its high-standard services and attentive staff.

“These achievements are nothing but a mere acknowledgement and yet another reward for our team’s constant and tireless efforts in contributing to our tourism product’s upgrade in terms of quality and services on offer,” commented Jason Perdios, managing director, Louis Hotels.

Kanika Sunrise Project Completed

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anika Developments has announced the completion of Kanika Sunrise, which is situated in Ayios Athanasios, Limassol. Kanika Sunrise, a modern residential block of apartments that was fully sold many months prior to its launch, is expected to set the bar even higher for new, modern and attractive projects from the property developer.

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hanos Hotels announced that Elena-Diana Gheorginete, sommelier and guest services, Anabelle, ranked first in the inaugural Barton & Guestier (B&G) Wine Competition Cyprus.

Organised by Photos Photiades Distributors, the Cyprus Sommelier Association and Sommellerie Internationale (ASI), the event took place at Karatello Restaurant Carob Mill in Limassol, with eight sommeliers from across Cyprus competing for the first prize – a trophy and a five-day trip to Bordeaux with Photos Photiades Distributors to visit the headquarters of B&G, the famous Chateau Magnol.

The competition consisted of a written test and a blind tasting of two wines, followed by the identification of five French spirits and two practical wine serving tests in front of an audience of 60 people.

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Kanika Sunrise rendering

FEBRUARY 2015

ACCOMMODATION MONTHLY NEWS

Cybarco to Renovate Olympic Lagoon Resort Paphos

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laridge, owner of Olympic Lagoon Resort Paphos, has signed a contractor agreement with sister company Cybarco, one of Cyprus’ leading contracting and property development companies which owns an international property portfolio and sales network.

The EUR13 million deal concerns the transformation of the five-star property which will see the former Paphos Amathus Beach Hotel being reborn as Olympic Lagoon Resort Paphos.

The renovation works are expected to be completed by May so that the new property can start operating as of June 1.

Hilton Cyprus Donates to Charity

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n collaboration with the Cyprus-French Business Association and the Cyprus Chamber Of Commerce and Industry, Hilton Cyprus held a charity event where it donated a cheque to Agios Lazaros Charity Centre. The Conrad N. Hilton Foundation is an initiative established in 1944 by the man who launched Hilton hotels to provide funds to non-profit organisations working to improve the lives of disadvantaged and vulnerable people across the world.

In Cyprus, the charity foundation of the hotel chain’s member property was established in 2011. It has since donated more than EUR24,000 to local organisations, collected through the action of its employees and volunteers.

Constantinou Bros Makes Profit

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onstantinou Bros Hotels released its interim management statement, covering the period from June 1 – November 30, 2014 according to which the company’s operating profit was higher compared to the corresponding period in 2013 due to increased turnover.

As per Constantinou Bros Hotels’ announcement, the reason for the growth in profit was due to improved hotel occupancy at the group’s properties.

Moreover, the company is expected to record profit compared to a loss in the corresponding six months of 2013.

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Olympic Lagoon Resort Paphos

FEBRUARY 2015

Hilton Cyprus

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TRAVEL CHANNELS

Aphrodite Hills Golf Club Donates to Cancer Patients Aphrodite Hills Golf Club recently held a golf tournament which helped raise EUR1,322 for the Captains Charity Cancer Patients Support Group in Paphos.

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total of 85 players, men and women, eager to pit their wits against the course, took part in the Captains Day challenge, organised by the club’s captains, John O’Neill and Ellen Fehm Christensen with the assistance of the facility’s skilled golf team.

The competition was followed by a gala dinner in Morpheus Ballroom, hosting more than 120 members and their guests who enjoyed a variety of cuisines prepared by the food and beverage department.

Cypriot Athletes Sail to Malta

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he Cyprus Optimist national sailing team took part in the Optimists Class Euromed Malta Championship, from December 19 - ­­22, 2014, for the second consecutive year.

The team consisted of Panos Konstantinou, Andreas Christodoulides and Stavri Totou from Famagusta Nautical Club, and Haris Papazoglou, Rafael Theoharous and Apostolos Apostolides from Limassol Nautical Club.

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Captains Day at Aphrodite Hills Golf Club

Evacuation Exercise at Larnaka International Airport

Supporting Breast Cancer Awareness

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ermes Airports in cooperation with the Cypriot Civil Aviation Department, Airport Police Security, and other concerned entities, held a successful evacuation exercise at Larnaka International Airport, in December 2014.

The fictional scenario of the evacuation exercise was a dual bomb threat, both against an aircraft preparing for takeoff and against the premises of the airport. The exercise consequently lead to the detonation of a hidden explosive device through mobilisation of concerned authorities for the direct and coordinated management of the emergency situation.

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ermes Airports, CTC-ARI Duty Free Shops and Cyprus Airports F&B joined forces for 2014’s breast cancer awareness campaign, held under the slogan We’re stronger together.

The Trinity campaign, as it was titled, worked hard to raise breast cancer awareness and attract donations throughout the airports’ stores.

Wes Porter, CEO, Hermes Airports, said, “Hermes was delighted to participate along with all the airport community in this year’s events for the global fight against breast cancer. We stand together with the patients and their loved ones in a global mission that is aiming to provide all patients with strength, care and the best possible treatment.”

Staff of Hermes Airports supporting the breast cancer campaign

FEBRUARY 2015

RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE CYPRUS: How many tourists does Polis Chrysochous receive annually?

ANGELOS ODYSSEOS: From information we have received from Cyprus Tourism Organisation, the number of visitors in 2012 was 120,282. In 2013 we welcomed 33,441 and in the first half of 2014 just 7,212 visitors.

Q & A with

Angelos Odysseos MAYOR, POLIS CHRYSOCHOUS

TRAVEL TRADE CYPRUS: Polis Chrysochous and the surrounding areas are of the most beautiful destinations in all of Cyprus. How are they being promoted to local and international tourists?

ANGELOS ODYSSEOS: It is an undeniable fact that Polis Chrysochous is one of the most beautiful areas of the island, close to romantic locations where the goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite, met her lover Adonis. It is built in an area gifted with rich natural environment and wonderful beaches. It is a continuation of the ancient cities of Marion and Arsinoe.

Although it is recognised by many that the area of Polis Chrysochous has many strong advantages, it does not get its fair share of tourism development. We have taken several steps to increase tourism by highlighting and promoting the region as a tourist destination with its own distinct identity.

For this purpose we have asked Cyprus Tourism Organisation and other partners to share informative material on their websites, printed and other promotional material for Polis promoting the area as a special tourist destination. Moreover, we are making efforts to upgrade our municipality’s website to achieve better visibility.

Our municipality occasionally hosts tour operators from different countries to boost our region’s reach abroad. Finally, we make efforts to upgrade our infrastructure, and take actions towards utilising it. An example is the Latchi harbour where we can develop nautical tourism.

TRAVEL TRADE CYPRUS: The camping site in Polis is a popular destination for domestic tourists. Recently, the municipality announced a master plan for the area that will include significant improvements to existing facilities. Can you tell us a bit more about the project?

FEBRUARY 2015

the strategic investor are not satisfactory.

The master plan provides for significant upgrades to the camping site which include improvement of the current buildings of the reception area, leisure centre, toilets and showers, creating special paths, upgrading services such as the water and electricity supply, determining areas that will accommodate caravans and tents, creating a children’s playground and a pond, enriching green areas and a series of other tasks that will revamp and upgrade the camping site, making it more qualitative and attractive.

The camping area has played and continues to play a very important role in terms of tourism development in the wider area of Polis as it has become a favourite destination, hosting both locals and foreigners, especially people who love the environment and peaceful holidays.

It is one of the most charming places, not only in Cyprus, but also in the whole Europe, which with proper configuration can improve its important role in terms of tourism development.

TRAVEL TRADE CYPRUS: The Limni Bay development, prepared by Shacolas Group, is set to bring Polis under the spotlight and create muchneeded investor and tourist awareness. How is the municipality working with the developing company to promote the project? What are the expected benefits of the development for Polis Chrysochous?

POLIS CHYSOCHOUS, DEEMED AS ONE OF CYPRUS’ MOST PICTURESQUE AREAS, HOLDS A UNIQUE POTENTIAL TO BE UNLEASHED. ANGELOS ODYSSEOS, MAYOR, POLIS CHRYSOCHOUS, DISCUSSES PROJECTS THAT ARE TO BRING THE SPOTLIGHT ON THE RURAL REGION. ANGELOS ODYSSEOS: Recently, and after partial modification of the designs, we have obtained the planning permission for the camping site. Now we are in the process of finding a strategic investor who will undertake to execute the master plan, which has been prepared in collaboration with Cyprus Tourism Organisation, the forestry department and the municipality. In parallel, our municipality is looking to finance the project through European funds, in case the proposals of

“

WE HAVE TAKEN SEVERAL STEPS TO INCREASE TOURISM

BY HIGHLIGHTING AND PROMOTING THE REGION

ANGELOS ODYSSEOS: The planned project consists of two golf courses, with their corresponding golf clubs, and will be implemented in the Limni area, exceeding three million square metres. The company’s objective is the creation of a separate and integrated tourist complex and high-quality standards which come in absolute harmony with the natural environment.

The mixed-use project will be ecofriendly in order to attract high-quality tourism, and will place Polis and the surrounding areas in the international charter for golfers and buyers of high quality second homes.

The project will also attract other investors in the area. With the beginning of construction works hundreds of jobs will be created in the area, while many new small businesses will be developed, which will boost greatly the region’s economy and will attract significant new investments.

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TRAVEL TALK

Cyprus is an important, year-round destination

ANDREAS ENGEL Public relations manager, international, Germanwings

We adopted a word that literally means celestial

“We are very excited about our new itinerary. Cyprus is an important, year-round destination for leisure and business travellers due to its strategic location and ideal climate. Through this regular, weekly service we aim to contribute in attracting even more tourists in this wonderful Mediterranean island, which is undoubtedly a popular destination for Germans as well as all Europeans.”

In focus

KIRIAKOS ANASTASIADIS CEO, Louis Cruises

“We adopted a word that literally means celestial and connects with concepts such as the stars, while metaphorically depicts the divine experience – the exact experience that our very same passengers have felt. […]. Our ships Louis Cristal and Louis Olympia will be renamed as Celestyal Cristal and Celestyal Olympia, while we are already commercially operating as Celestyal in all markets except Cyprus, where we will continue operating as Louis Cruises.”

What is your philosophy and how have you put it into practice at Columbia Hotels?

I would have to say, nice and simple, with a delicate finish, and this is something that has really worked here at Columbia Beach Resort and Beach Hotel. I believe that these are the main factors that allow an idea to be translated into something attractive that our guests will sense, enjoy and remember.

What is your favourite flavour?

Without a doubt, bitter chocolate. I just love the delicious, rich cocoa taste of dark chocolate; especially from Cuba, where all the sweetness comes with the first bite then develops a woody note.

NAME:

Prodromos Papadopoulos

POSITION:

Pastry chef

COMPANY:

Columbia Beach Resort/ Columbia Beachotel

LOCATION:

Limassol

WEBSITE:

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www.columbiabeachhotels.com

Which dessert would you recommend to all guests of Columbia Hotels?

I would recommend the peanut chocolate praline cake, a caramelised crunchy peanut base with bitter chocolate ganache and smooth milk chocolate.

We see an increasing need for gluten-free and lactose-free desserts. How do you deal with this?

At Columbia Hotels, we had an understanding of this need a long time ago. So we created a special collection of desserts that would satisfy guests with gluten and lactose intolerance or allergies.

One of these options is our lemon sorbet. [...]

Who is your mentor?

Every person I have had the pleasure of working with has had a strong influence on my style, though everyone has had very differing styles. [...]

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TRAVEL TALK & WHO’S MOVED

ASMA AL RAHMA

The strategy for our growth from Cyprus continues

DIMITRIS GEROGIANNIS CEO, AEGEAN Airlines

“The strategy for our growth from Cyprus continues, investing in the quality relationship we have established with the Cypriot market. The launch of direct flights from Larnaca to Tel Aviv represents another important step towards the implementation of our company’s strategic plan. At the same time, these new flights [between Larnaca and Tel Aviv and Larnaca and Kiev] will support business growth and the increase of tourism to Cyprus.”

In focus NAME:

Walter Kril

POSITION:

General manager

COMPANY:

Aldiana Cyprus Resort

LOCATION:

Alaminos, Larnaca

WEBSITE:

www.aldiana.de

FEBRUARY 2015

Asma Al Rahma has been appointed country manager for Cyprus by Emirates.

Al Rahma moves to the island after three successful years in the same position in Oman. A graduate from the UAE’s Commercial Management Outstation Programme, Al Rahma’s first assignment was in Kuwait as Emirates’ sales manager. In her new role, she will manage a team of 20 and will be responsible for growing the airline’s business within Cyprus ensuring that travellers opt for Emirates when visiting Dubai.

Al Rahma now looks forward to working with the wider Cypriot travel trade in realising the potential of the market.

Who are you?

I am Walter Kril, general manager of Aldiana Cyprus Resort.

When did you join the industry and why?

I have been in the hotel business for the last 22 years. I started in Austria, then Fuerteventura, Switzerland, Germany and since 2012 my new home is Cyprus. I like to work with different kinds of people from other nations, creating authentic emotions and I cannot imagine myself working anywhere else than in the tourism industry.

What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry?

Hotel business is never a routine and monotonous job. I see it as a true business which is not focussed only on money. Everyday I face new challenges from different countries and cultures.

Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday?

I would like to visit the US with my family. My children would love to visit Disneyland and I always wanted to see the Grand Canyon.

Why is Cyprus an ideal destination to visit?

Cyprus is not a typical touristic island. Here you can feel tradition, genuine people, hospitality, sunny days all year round and warm winters.

Short distances around the island give you the opportunity to visit any place at any time.

In Cyprus you can find anything you ask for.

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NEWS & EVENTS Music Performance at The Cyprus Wine Museum

T

The Cyprus Wine Museum

he Commandaria Orchestra & Friends Chamber Music Concert Series was held at The Cyprus Wine Museum in December 2014.

The Cyprus-based multinational ensemble, Amiche String Quartet, performed Beethoven’s String Quartet and they performed Brahms Clarinet Quintet with the young Cypriot clarinettist George Georgiou. The String Quartet had its debut over seven years ago, with all four members being versatile musicians who for years have actively participated in the cultural life of Cyprus, taking part in nearly all major music events.

EVENTS SERGEY AND ISADORA Limassol February 11 www.rialto.com.cy A performance of a play based on love and life of the Russian poet Sergey Esenin and the American dancer Isadora Duncan, by the Russian Roman Viktuk Theater.

Cyprus Convention Bureau at EIBTM

C

yprus Tourism Organication (CTO), through Cyprus Convention Bureau, participated at the Exhibition for the Incentive Business Travel and Meetings (EIBTM) 2014, held in Barcelona. Following the event, CTO announced that the MICE industry seemed well informed on Cyprus’ po-

tential and ability to successfully hold congresses and conferences, while the organisation’s motive schemes have led many buyers to book and host their events on the island. CTO plans to also take part in another major MICE exhibition, namely IBTM Arabia which will be held this month in Abu Dhabi.

Representative of Cyprus at Venice Biennale Selected

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Venice

he Culture Department of the Ministry of Education and Culture announced that Christodoulos Panayiotou will be representing Cyprus at the 56th Venice Biennale of Art, taking place from May 9 – November 22. Omar Kholeif, curator for Cyprus in the upcoming edition of the event, was responsible for selecting the artists from an open call, which attracted over 70 participation proposals. “I believe that Panayiotou possesses a singular artistic vision that verbalises a multiplicity of social, political and historical positions. His work relates, not only to the Cypriot context, but also to the broader Mediterranean region and beyond,” said Kholeif.

CYPRUS SUNSHINE CUP Lefkara, Lythrodontas, Macheras and Amathus February 26 – March 8 www.cyclingcy.com One of the most famous mountain bike series in the Union Cycliste Internationale calendar.

AGIA NAPA CULTURAL WINTER Ayia Napa Until March 26 www.ayianapa.org.cy Cultural events in Ayia Napa area including music, folklore dances and classical music piano recitals.

CTO Takes Part in Golf Show

C

yprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) attended the International Golf Travel Market which took place in Italy and saw the participation of more than 1,300 industry professionals, including 600 exhibitors, 350 tour operators and media from all over the world.

Major Cypriot golf courses and resorts were

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also exhibited alongside CTO, which promoted the island as an overall golf destination.

Maro Kazepi, golf tourism coordinator, CTO, held meetings with nearly 30 tour operators and journalists from 18 countries, among which were the UK, Germany, France and Austria, Cyprus’ main markets for golf tourists.

VOLKSWAGEN CYPRUS CYCLING TOUR Paphos March 17 – 29 www.cyclingcy.com A three-day road cycling-for-all event that will take place for the fourth consecutive year.

FEBRUARY 2015