Travel Trade Europe Issue 2 by Travel Trade Publications

AGENTS!... ...A new hotel booking system has arrived!

25 NOVEMBER 2014

ISSUE 02

SPAIN BOASTS RECORD TOURISM ARRIVALS NATIONAL TOURISM ORGANISATION OF MONTENEGRO HAS REVEALED THAT 16 OF THE COUNTRY’S BEACHES RECEIVED THE PRESTIGIOUS INTERNATIONAL ACCOLADE BLUE FLAG.

07 INTERVIEW WITH NICK GREENFIELD

17 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE TECHNOLOGY TOURISM BOARDS CRUISING ACCOMMODATION AIRPORTS RENDEZVOUS AGENTS TRAVEL TALK TRAVEL CHANNELS WHO’S MOVED PHOTO ALBUM NEWS & EVENTS

02 04 07 09 10 12 17 19 20 21 22 23 24

MONTENEGRO’S BEACHES RECEIVE BLUE FLAG LABELS

MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS

MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel

London Hotels Report Strong September STR Global has released preliminary September performance data for London hotels, confirming steady growth across all key indicators.

ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba

he UK capital has seen a 3.3 percent increase in supply, accompanied by a steady 4.6 percent rise in demand. Occupancy grew by 1.2 percent to reach 89.4 percent, while the average daily rate (ADR) rose by 0.9 percent to GBP154.24 (EUR195.97) and RevPAR increased by 2.1 percent to GBP137.87 (EUR175.17). Elizabeth Winkle, managing director, STR Global, commented, “We are confident that London will finish the year with an overall four percent RevPAR.”

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

Tower Bridge, London

Higher Passenger Volumes for Austrian Airlines in Q3

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.traveltradeeurope.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel

A total of 8.7 million passengers flew with Austrian Airlines over the past nine months of this year.

he modest increase of 0.6 percent was driven by the expansion of long-haul flight services to North America. In contrast, flight traffic above the European continent did not develop so favourably, as the number of passengers flying with Austrian Airlines in Europe fell slightly by 0.8 percent. “Europe is a tough place to operate in at the present time. We are faced with crises in Eastern Europe, and cheap competition in Western Europe is posing problems for us. From this point of view, our intercontinental expansion turned out to be the right move,” commented Jaan Albrecht, CEO, Austrian Airlines.

Norwegian: Q3 Operations Grew yet Profits Flunked EXCHANGE RATES

Accurate as of

24/11/2014 COUNTRY

CURRENCY

1EUR=

US (USD)

Dollar

1.23

UK (GBP)

Pound

0.79

Switzerland (CHF)

Franc

1.20

Japan (JPY)

Yen

146.11

Norwegian Air Shuttle (Norwegian) reported strong growth across its European operations in the third quarter (Q3) with a capacity rise of 36 percent.

he total number of passengers carried was 7.1 million, and load factor reached 85 percent. Nevertheless, the carrier’s financial performance dropped due to a weak Norwegian Krone, a delayed approval from the US Department of Transportation for its subsidiary in Dublin and costs associated with flight delays. Bjørn Kjos, CEO, Norwegian, explained, “We are very satisfied that [...], an increasing number of new passengers choose Norwegian. […] However, we have also experienced some turbulence this quarter. […] Looking into 2015, we will see a year of consolidation and lower growth.” 25 NOVEMBER 2014

MARKET UPDATE

Georgia Reports Tourism Growth in Q3

Greybull Capital Acquires Monarch

Georgian National Tourism Administration released its Tourism Statistical Report 3rd Quarter 2014, highlighting a two percent rise in international arrivals which stood at 1,944,233.

Independent leisure travel group, Monarch completed its strategic review and restructuring programme under which it managed to secure GBP125 million (EUR158 million) of permanent capital and liquidity facilities.

ccording to the report, 87 percent of all arrivals were registered from neighbouring countries. Armenia ranked top with 452,841 visitors, and a seven percent increase was seen from Russia due to visa liberation and introduction of direct flights. Arrivals from Ukraine and Poland jumped 19 and 25 percent respectively as a result of nonstop services, while those from Belarus surged by 57 percent.

25 NOVEMBER 2014

Tbilisi

he company was sold to Greybull Capital which now owns a 90 percent share of Monarch. The remaining 10 percent passed to the group’s defined pension scheme and ultimately the Pension Protection Fund. Marc Meyohas, managing partner, Greybull Capital, commented, “We see this as a long-term investment and hope we can be very supportive shareholders throughout Monarch’s next chapter.”

NEWS TECHNOLOGY

Hotelzon Expands to France and Poland

Ryanair – Amadeus Partnership Started

Radoslaw Mazur

otel distribution technology provider Hotelzon has recently announced its expansion into France and Poland. The company has appointed local sales managers Abdallah Ahamada and Radoslaw Mazur, who will be based in Paris and Warsaw respectively. Jani Kaskinen, CEO, Hotelzon, commented, “I am delighted that Abdallah and Radoslaw are joining our team to head up our sales efforts in France and Poland, and they will play an instrumental role in implementing Hotelzon in these regions. They both bring to the role a wealth of experience in the technology industry and a proven track-record in delivering excellent results.” The expansion comes just four months after Travelport acquired Hotelzon as a part of its ongoing strategy to redefine travel commerce.

uropean low fares airline, Ryanair has recently announced the commencement of its new global distribution system (GDS) partnership with Amadeus, according to which all Amadeus-affiliated travel agents across Europe are to have full access to the carrier’s low fares, in addition to its Business Plus service. Holger Taubmann, senior vice president, distribution, Amadeus, commented, “We are delighted that Ryanair’s fares are live and bookable in the Amadeus system. Ryanair operates Europe’s largest route networks and from [now], Amadeus subscribers across Europe can book a wide range of the airline’s fares.” He further added, “Our light ticketing technology ensures the booking process is seamless and just the same as booking any full service airline through Amadeus.”

Travelport Gains Accreditation in South Africa

ravelport has recently announced an industry accreditation from the South African Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality, Sports Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA). This means that travel agents in South Africa will be able to send their consultants for training on Travelport’s Travel Commerce Platform, which will in turn help them to meet regulatory requirements for staff training and professional development. Commenting on the news, George Harb, managing director, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe, Travelport, stated, “We are immensely proud of this training accreditation as it will have an immediate positive impact on agents and is a testament to our commitment to enhancing our services and finding ways to help drive additional value to the industry in South Africa.”

25 NOVEMBER 2014

NEWS

MONTENEGRO’S BEACHES RECEIVE BLUE FLAG LABELS

Coastline of Montenegro

National Tourism Organisation of Montenegro has revealed that 16 of the country’s beaches received the prestigious international accolade Blue Flag.

he awarded beaches are Club Hotel Riviera resort beach and Stevuzo in the coastal town of Herceg Novi; Almara, Plavi Horizonti and Kalardovo in the town Tivat; Escallera Beach, S & I Beach Life, Blue Beach, St. Thomas and The Queen of Montenegro beach in Budva; Evropa Beach, Safari and MCM Beach, Lux Beach and Copacabana in Ulcinj; and Paradiso beach in the town of Bar. The Blue Flag is a voluntary eco-label awarded to more than 4,000 beaches and marinas in 48 countries across Europe, South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia, New Zealand, Brazil, Canada and the Caribbean.

Luxury Tourism Emerging in Greece

reece’s strategic development plan includes luxury tourism, which is an opportunity for the country as it can create a strong brand image. This was stressed by Olga Kefalogianni, tourism minister, Greece, who also highlighted the uniqueness of the Eastern Mediterranean, which attracts large numbers of visitors from around the world and is faced with a possibility to emerge as an integrated, dynamic global destination. Kefalogianni also referred to the importance of the tourism sector in Greece, describing it as the driving force of the economy, while pointing out that steps have been taken to improve the quality of tourism services and infrastructure, creating a friendly environment for investment.

Bay of Boka

Belarus Gets New Museum and Tourist Route

elarus welcomed a new tourist attraction. One House Museum, located in the Rudnya village in Grodno Oblast, showcases the evolution of the region’s rural life through time with more than 250 artefacts, including paintings, documents, money, household items, tools, clothes and toys. In addition to the country’s tourism product, visitors to the area will also be able to enjoy a new tourist route at the National Park Pripyatsky in 2015.

IATA: Europe’s Air Travel Slows Down

he International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its 20-year passenger growth forecast, projecting 7.3 billion annual passengers by 2034. Europe is to grow at the slowest rate of 2.7 percent, with its total market reaching 1.4 billion passengers by 2034. Germany and Spain are set to decline from fifth and sixth position this year to be the eighth and seventh largest markets respectively. France will fall from seventh to 10th place, while Italy will fall out of the top 10 altogether by 2019. “The first century of air travel has seen about 65 billion passengers take to the sky. The next 65 billion will fly in just the next 20 years,” said Tony Tyler, director general, IATA. Olga Kefalogianni

25 NOVEMBER 2014

TOURISM BOARDS NEWS GNTO Inks Deal with Samsung

reek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO) has signed a deal with Samsung in a bid to further promote Greece abroad. Samsung included www.visitgreece.gr on the application platform of its new generation Samsung Smart TVs. Users of the sets will have immediate access to information and rich audiovisual material

about tourism in Greece. The application combines material from GNTO’s website and its social media pages. Olga Kefalogianni, tourism minister, Greece, noted that the cooperation is an additional step to boosting Greek tourism through technology, successfully done also though GNTO’s website which surpassed 10 million visitors.

Spain Boasts Record Tourism Arrivals

pain saw a record tourism performance between January – September with 52.4 million international arrivals, according to the Spanish Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism, marking a 7.4 percent increase year-on-year. The summer period, between June – September, attracted 31 million visitors, seven

Park Güell in Barcelona

percent more than during 2013 summer months. Key markets were the UK with 12,358,931 tourists and a year-on-year growth of 5.6 percent, followed by France with 8,607,402 visitors and a 11.5 percent increase and Germany with 8,341,527 travellers and a rise of 6.9 percent. Most visited regions include Catalonia, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands.

25 NOVEMBER 2014

NEWS TOURISM BOARDS Chinese Tourism: Untapped Source Market for Malta

Tourism Ireland Goes on Location

D Filming at Titanic Belfast

s part of its autumn campaign in the UK, Tourism Ireland has partnered with Classic FM and Phil Spencer, co-presenter, Channel 4 television series, Location Location Location, in a bid to promote and showcase Northern Ireland and the island of Ireland as ideal locations for British holidaymakers this autumn. The partnership saw the production of new online films, including a Northern Ireland film featuring places such as Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, Titanic Belfast and Queen’s University, among others. The films are being promoted on Classic FM’s website over a four-week period and are expected to reach approximately 6.5 million people across the UK.

uring the China-Malta Culture and Media Forum, held in Malta in September, Edward Zammit Lewis, tourism minister, Malta, addressed the audience on the topic of Chinese tourism being an untapped source market for the country. During his speech, Lewis posited that China and Malta very distinct in size, though both boast a very rich history and culture. The forum was an opportunity for the Mediterranean island to showcase its cultural assets and to mutually exchange dialogue between the two countries, as well as strengthen cooperation. “Malta is indeed small in size but incredibly rich in culture and art, and I can see increased interest and huge potential for future cultural cooperation between Malta and China,” he noted.

Three-year Plan for Scottish Tourism

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uring the Scottish Tourism Alliance (STA)’s annual meeting, Stephen Leckie, chair, STA, and Marc Crothall, CEO, STA, set out four key strands for a three-year strategic business plan which focusses on ensuring the long-term sustainability of the alliance, broadening membership from across other sectors, engaging more in direct conversation, influencing the delivery of the national strategy Tourism Scotland 2020 and establishing an information gateway for tourism business. After an amazing year for Scotland in the media spotlight and with [...] confidence running high, everyone looks forward to the future opportunities for the tourism industry in Scotland, said Crothall.

Malta

Need for Tourism Investment in Malta’s South

E Scotland

dward Zammit Lewis, tourism minister, Malta, has announced his government’s intention to promote tourism outside the zones in which it is currently concentrated, considering the areas not currently frequented by tourists as an untapped resource. As such, Lewis has pledged to increase tourism investment in the south of Malta. Preparing the programme for World Tourism Day, which was created in partnership with private enterprises, Lewis underpinned the importance of private investment in moving the economy forward. Moreover, he further noted that while tourism is a highly successful and lucrative sector for Malta’s economy, the revenue should be shared and enjoyed by all.

25 NOVEMBER 2014

CRUISING NEWS

AmaWaterways Adds to Its Fleet

Grand Fuel Conservation Results for Carnival Corporation

maWaterways announced the addition of two new ships, AmaSerena and AmaVista, set to join their sister ships for Danube, Main and Rhine sailings in spring 2015. The new vessels are set to delight AmaWaterways’ passengers with innovative connecting staterooms. Kristin Karst, co-owner, AmaWaterways, noted, “We are delighted to welcome AmaSerena and AmaVista to our European fleet, and to be responsive to the rising demand for new ship design [...] in this particular region.”

Onboard AmaSerena

25 NOVEMBER 2014

l obal cruise company, Carnival Corporation has released the results of its multiyear Fleet Fuel Conservation Program, which will have saved more than one billion gallons of fuel and reduced fleet carbon emissions by 12 million tonnes over a seven-year period by end of this year. The corporation’s Fleet Fuel Conservation Program combines energy-saving initiatives onboard current ships with new, energy efficient ship designs, in order to reduce energy consumption and boost fuel efficiency across its fleet of over 100 ships. The programme has become a cornerstone of the corporation’s strategy to collaborate across its nine brands and leverage its scale, while supporting sustainability initiatives designed to reduce environmental impact from maritime operations.

Carnival Cruise Lines

Carnival Corporation Expands Its Dutch Training Facilities

arnival Corporation recently revealed plans to open a new training facility in the city of Almere, near Amsterdam, in 2016, which is set to serve around 6,500 deck and technical officers from across the corporation’s nine brands. The Almere facility is to have a new, three times larger Center for Simulator Maritime Training (CSMART) facility, than that currently operating in its existing hub in the city.

Center for Simulator Maritime Training in Almere

NEWS ACCOMMODATION IHG Signs a New Stuttgart Property

Opening of Four Seasons Hotel Moscow

T Stuttgart

he former Hotel Moskva has reopened after many years as the new Four Seasons Hotel Moscow. Boasting 180 rooms and suites, the property offers five dining and drinking establishments, two ballrooms, five meeting rooms and an exclusive spa set to open in 2015. “After years of meticulous planning, the old Hotel Moskva is now reborn as Four Seasons Hotel Moscow with fashion-forward style and modern comforts on Manezhnaya Square. It is our mission to write the next exciting chapter in the storied history of this building, and this city,” said Max Musto, general manager, Four Seasons Hotel Moscow.

nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has penned a deal with Foremost Hospitality (FH) HIEX for a new hotel in Germany, Holiday Inn Express Stuttgart – Hauptbahnhof, slated for a 2016 opening. The property, 14th in the 20 hotel-strong multideal agreement signed by IHG and FH HIEX back in 2007, will have 140 rooms, as well as a bar, breakfast area, reception and a conference room. Martin Bowen, associate vice president, development, Germany, IHG, commented, “Holiday Inn Express Stuttgart – Hauptbahnhof will join Holiday Inn Stuttgart and Holiday Inn Express Stuttgart Airport to become our third hotel in this key city. The deal with Foremost is accelerating our growth together in this priority market.”

Four Seasons Hotel Moscow

Maritim to Change Amsterdam's Skyline

aritim Hotel Group signed an agreement for a premium project in the Dutch capital, aimed to become the tallest hotel in downtown Amsterdam at 34 floors, and the largest congress hotel in the Netherlands. Maritim Hotel Amsterdam will feature 579 rooms and suites, several conference rooms and six private business offices, each 50m2 in size. The complex will boast a separate floor offering spa facilities and an open roof terrace, as well as a large selection of food and beverage outlets. Due to open in 2018, the hotel is giving the firm a foothold in its key market expansion plans, similar to its offering in Berlin where it operates the largest conference hotels, according to Monika Gommolla, chairlady, Maritim Hotel Group. Maritim Hotel Düsseldorf

25 NOVEMBER 2014

ACCOMMODATION NEWS Europe to Welcome 892 New Hotels

urope’s hotel development pipeline comprises 892 hotels totalling 141,112 rooms, according to the September STR Global Construction Pipeline Report. Among the markets in the region, Greater London has the largest number of rooms under contract reaching 17,370, while seven other markets

reported more than 2,000 keys under development. Istanbul’s pipeline stands at 7,085 rooms, followed by Moscow’s with 4,060 rooms and Manchester’s with 4,034 keys. Slightly above the 2,000 mark, Berlin is to welcome an extra 2,866 rooms and Amsterdam 2,749, while Hamburg and Munich are poised to receive, 2,709 and 2,356 keys respectively.

Kempinski Boasts New Alpine Resort

Berchtesgaden International Resort

empinski strengthened its alpine portfolio by taking over Berchtesgaden International Resort, currently managed by InterContinental Hotels Group. The official takeover is scheduled for the first half of 2015. Located amidst the Bavarian Alps, it will offer 138 rooms, three restaurants, two bars, extensive events facilities, an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, heliport and a 1,400m² spa. Markus Semer, chief group development and corporate affairs officer, Kempinski, stated, “The signing of this property is in line with our development strategy to focus on Europe, particularly on Germany, and underlines Kempinski’s management expertise in alpine destinations in the luxury segment.”

25 NOVEMBER 2014

NEWS AIRPORTS Focussing on Improving Heathrow Airport

Vienna Airport: 1.9 Percent Rise

he number of passengers handled by Vienna Report reached 2,186,382 in September, rising by 1.9 percent compared to September 2013. Total air cargo increased by 5.4 percent, whereas the number of flight movements was up 0.7 percent. The Austrian hub also reported a 7.5 percent decline year-on-year in the number of transfer travellers in September, whereas the number of local passengers was up 5.9 percent. In the month under review, the number of tourists flying to Western Europe increased by 3.1 percent, in contrast to the 11.9 percent drop in traffic to Eastern Europe. The Middle East, Far East and North America regions all recorded growth, with the latter surging by 35.8 percent in September.

eathrow Airport Holdings has agreed to sell its 100 percent interest in Aberdeen International Airport, Glasgow Airport and Southampton International Airport to a consortium formed by Ferrovial and Macquarie for GBP1.05 billion (EUR1.32 billion). John Holland-Kaye, CEO, Heathrow Airport, said, "Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton airports and their people have been part of our company for a long time. This sale enables us to focus on improving Heathrow for passengers and winning support for Heathrow expansion. Heathrow is the UK’s only hub airport, connecting the whole of the UK to the world and bringing economic benefits locally and nationally.”

Vienna Airport

Heathrow Airport

Strong Summer for Athens International Airport

Aéroports de Paris Traffic Slows in September

n September, Parisian airports saw 7.2 million passengers, a decrease of 10.4 percent year-on-year. Some 4.9 million passengers travelled through Paris-Charles de Gaulle, which registered a decline of 12.3 percent, and 2.3 million through Paris-Orly which slowed down by 6.2 percent. International movements, excluding Europe, fell by 11 percent, with drops of eight to 10 percent from Africa, Asia Pacific and the French Overseas Territories. Declines from the Americas exceeded 17 percent.

Paris-Charles de Gaulle

n line with the steady recovery of the Greek aviation market since the start of the year, the summer period recorded increased business volumes at Athens International Airport (AIA), indicating positive forecasts for the upcoming winter period. Non-European markets, especially the US, Middle East and Asia, recorded spectacular development, and during the summer months, AIA ranked top in growth amongst European airports based on passenger traffic, flights and capacity increase. The airport continues to provide substantial incentives to airlines and this year, a total of 13 incentives, both developmental and targeted, were in effect.

25 NOVEMBER 2014

AIRPORTS NEWS ACI Europe Discusses Italian Aviation Priorities

uropean branch of Airports Council International (ACI), ACI Europe met with Maurizio Lupi, infrastructure and transport minister, Italy, and the country’s airport association Assaeroporti to discuss key regulatory challenges to the development of Italian airports. Olivier Jankovec, director general, ACI Europe, stressed, “The Italian Gov-

ernment is committed to reforming the country to spur economic growth and there is no doubt that airports are a vital part of this agenda. This means urgently clarifying the procedure for the approval of airport charges so as to provide much needed legal certainty […].” He emphasised the need for the airports to enforce minimum quality standards for ground handling.

Gatwick Airport Revises Noise Action Plan

atwick Airport has revised its Noise Action Plan, following consultations with the local community. The plan foresees the airport exploring ways to minimise noise, such as continuous descent approach and providing rotating respite to those most affected. It will also consult and cooperate

with local residents and Department of Transport on a number of issues, and will continue to incentivise airlines to use quieter aircraft, employ effective noise mitigating schemes and more. Tom Denton, head of corporate responsibility, Gatwick Airport, explained, “We understand that noise has an impact on our local communities and we strive to do everything possible to mitigate its effects.”

25 NOVEMBER 2014

NEWS AIRPORTS

Glasgow Airport Supports Youth Volunteers

Heathrow Helpers Address Passenger Needs

Majority Backs Heathrow Expansion

Reserve Parking at Vienna Airport

lasgow Airport’s FlightPath Fund recently funded an initiative by Pineview Housing Association and Action for Children, enabling 10 young people to volunteer during the summer. Work activities included upgrading a memorial primary school garden, assisting the elderly with garden maintenance and doing local ground works. Archie Hunter, chair, FlightPath Fund, stated, “We were impressed to hear about the variety of activities that the youngsters would be participating in and how much help they were lending locally.” Jean Black, chair, Pineview Housing Association, enthused, ”This work has given the young people a whole host of skills that they will hopefully take with them into future employment.”

eathrow Airport announced the next generation of passenger service, Heathrow Helpers. The team of expertly trained helpers will be on hand to assist passengers with any issues, from handing out tissues to relatives waving off loved ones in the departure lounge, to sharing information on the latest restaurant openings in key destinations. Based throughout the airport, the crew will be wearing purple uniforms and tool belts with the necessary equipment to respond to the most popular passenger requests. With a combined experience of 264 years in assisting passengers and fluency in 38 languages, Heathrow Helpers have been selected based on their skill sets, from being tourism specialists to proficiency in sign language.

ndependent research by Populus showed that the majority of local residents support the expansion of Heathrow Airport. The poll included 9,670 residents in west London, Spelthorne, Slough and Windsor. Expansion is supported by 49 percent of them, and opposed by a third. Positive feelings towards the airport were expressed by 59 percent, while six felt negative. Finally, a quarter of the residents is more likely to vote for a Parliamentary candidate which supports the expansion, while 17 percent said the opposite. “Expansion at Heathrow will connect all of Britain to global growth, and keep Britain at the heart of the global economy,” said John Holland-Kaye, CEO, Heathrow Airport, adding that the expansion can deliver 50,000 local jobs.

ith immediate effect, travellers and those picking up passengers can select and book a particular parking space at Vienna Airport via the airport’s website. All car parks and the corresponding rates are listed after entering the desired booking period. In this way, travellers can have a good overview of the available parking spaces at the airport, their location and distance from the terminal buildings and the parking costs. Payment can be made using a credit card. After booking a parking space, customers will receive their confirmation via an email, which can be printed or used on the mobile phone as it contains a QR code which is read by the car park entrance barrier.

25 NOVEMBER 2014

AIR NEWS Aeroflot Flies to Tbilisi and Chisinau

Brussels Airlines Expands Its Winter Offerings

R B

russels Airlines has launched its autumn and winter programme, delighting its travellers with three new additions to its network, namely Riga, Krakow and Warsaw. The Belgian carrier has also updated timetables for other destinations, with more frequencies across Europe, Middle East and Africa. Throughout the season, passengers have at their disposal a total of 1,430 weekly services – 1,278 short- and medium-haul, and 152 long haul flights. Also, the airline has recently opened a new lounge and has introduced four travel options on its short-haul flights. These are Check&Go, Light&Relax, Flex&Fast and Bizz&Class.

25 NOVEMBER 2014

Riga

ussian flag carrier, Aeroflot has recently introduced two new daily return routes to its international network, which include Moscow – Tbilisi and Moscow – Chisinau. Both destinations will be served by an Airbus A320 aircraft from Sheremetyevo International Airport’s Terminal D. Flights to the Georgian capital are to depart Moscow at 23:20 and arrive to Tbilisi International Airport at 03:10 the next day. Return flight is scheduled to leave Tbilisi at 04:20, landing in the Russian capital at 06:05. As for flights to Moldova, the flight to Chisinau is to depart at 22:00 and arrive at 00:25. Return service is set to leave the Moldovan capital at 01:15, arriving to Moscow at 05:30.

NEWS AIR airBaltic Improves Winter Schedule

irBaltic kicked off the winter season with four new routes and enhanced services throughout the Baltics, Scandinavia, CIS and the Middle East. The airline has launched new routes from its home base in Riga to Moscow’s Vnukovo airport and the new winter holiday destination of Poprad, in the High Tatras Mountains, Slovakia. airBaltic has also strengthened the connectivity of the Baltic states by launching direct flights from neighbouring capitals, introducing services between Tallinn and Paris, and Vilnius and Amsterdam. By placing larger aircraft on high-demand winter holiday routes, and scheduling more convenient departure times on established winter routes linking Riga with Zürich, Vienna, Munich and other cities, airBaltic has also significantly improved service for the winter period.

UIA Launches Its Winter Schedule

kraine International Airlines (UIA) unveiled its winter schedule, effective from October 26 – March 28, 2015, with several seasonal flights and scheduled changes across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Seasonal flights are offered from Kiev to Salzburg, Poprad, Sofia, Grenoble, Erzurum, Kittila, Kuusamo and Tenerife, and Ukrainian cities of Kharkov, Lvov, Odessa and Zaporozhye, as well as Kiev, now enjoy nonstop services to the Red Sea holiday hubs of Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada. Services from Kiev to Turkey and Thailand were boosted with a total of 11 flights to Istanbul and four to Bangkok. “In preparing our winter schedule, we tried to consider the needs and preferences of different passengers,” assured Evgeniya Satska, corporate press secretary, UIA.

Grenoble

Lufthansa Praises Airbus’ A320neo Maiden Flight

L Airbus A320neo

ufthansa Group has recently praised Airbus Group for the success of the recent maiden flight of its modern, fuel-efficient and low-noise aircraft, Airbus A320neo. “Congratulations to Airbus on this successful maiden flight. We are delighted that the aircraft passed this test with flying colours. Airbus has now shown that everything is going to plan,” enthused Nico Buchholz, executive vice president, fleet management, Lufthansa Group. The group has so far ordered a total of 115 Airbus A320neo aircraft, most of which are to be deployed at its two carriers, Lufthansa and Swiss International Air.

25 NOVEMBER 2014

RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE EUROPE: ETOA is a trade association for tour operators and suppliers with business in European destinations. What is its role in promoting Europe to the world? NICK GREENFIELD: If Europe is to remain the world’s number one tourist destination, it needs to be competitive; we exist to facilitate this through workshops, seminars, network and lobbying. Our 170 or so operator members have clients from all over Europe and around the world, and they are looking to work productively with our other 500 plus supplier members. It is in all of their interests that the environment to do business is favourable. There is an enemy constantly lurking in the background and that enemy is complacency. We have to remind policy makers of the importance of our sector and not take for granted that all these visitors will continue to flock to European destinations. [...]

Q & A with

Nick Greenfield

HEAD OF TOUR OPERATOR RELATIONS, EUROPEAN TOUR OPERATORS ASSOCIATION

TRAVEL TRADE EUROPE: What is the future of European tourism?

TRAVEL TRADE EUROPE: Visa relaxation has been one of ETOA’s constant demands. How do you see this issue progressing and what is your proposal for a successful scheme that will allow free access to Europe but ensure safety for European citizens? NICK GREENFIELD: The turning point for us was the publication of our 2010 visa survey, where we showed how many people gave up during the process and the subsequent loss of income; around EUR500 million. While there is still plenty to do, both the Schengen and UK authorities have been receptive to the problems we have highlighted and are making real efforts to fix these. Visa-free is the ultimate aim for any market, but in the meantime there are structural improvements that can help. Schengen has recognised that there needs to be more consistency between consulates, while the UK is aiming to make the whole process more streamlined and user-friendly. TRAVEL TRADE EUROPE: Which are Europe’s main inbound markets and which ones are up-and-coming? NICK GREENFIELD: In recent years, the big news has been the BRIC countries; Brazil, Russia, India and China. The actual and potential growth from these markets is eye-catching even if the aforementioned visa regime affects three out of four of these; Brazil 25 NOVEMBER 2014

a new iron curtain on Europe by regressing on visa relaxation or boycotting destinations. Secondly, even if the conditions are favourable for travel, will clients automatically choose Europe? Other destinations are available, and Europe cannot just assume that a generation of Chinese or Indian travellers are all dreaming of visiting these shores. On top of this, other origin markets are available; countries traditionally seen as destinations such as Turkey, Mexico and Indonesia are in turn growing in importance as outbound markets. And we should never forget that in spite of all this exciting growth, North America remains the most important origin market by a long way. [...]

EUROPE MIGHT BE LOSING MARKET SHARE, BUT IT STILL SEES GROWTH AND NICK GREENFIELD, HEAD OF TOUR OPERATOR RELATIONS, EUROPEAN TOURISM ASSOCIATION (ETOA), BELIEVES IT IS WRONG TO PAINT A PESSIMISTIC PICTURE, WHEN THERE ARE MANY THINGS AUTHORITIES CAN STILL DO. is visa-free. There are, however, several caveats. Firstly, origin markets are susceptible to a number of external factors. Aside from the economic climate and currency fluctuations, political tension such as we see presently between Russia and the European Union have an adverse effect on travel, both inbound and outbound. We believe strongly that trade and cooperation follows travel flows and argue that now is not the time to turn back the clock and impose

“

WE HAVE TO REMIND POLICY MAKERS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF OUR SECTOR

NICK GREENFIELD: There are a number of factors that will decide the relative success or failure of inbound tourism to Europe. The continent is losing market share but still sees growth, so it is wrong to paint automatically too pessimistic a picture. It really does depend on what governments do, or do not do, to help the sector and what we offer as an industry. Do we understand that many of these markets see us as a single destination, albeit with a patchwork of fascinating destinations to choose from? Cross-border cooperation and marketing is important […]. I have every faith that the flow of visitors will continue but it is the extent of this flow that remains unclear. TRAVEL TRADE EUROPE: What needs to be changed in order for intra-European travel to flourish further? NICK GREENFIELD: I would actually start by asking what needs to be kept. The Schengen area is not only a boon for visitors from long-haul markets; it has nurtured the sense that Europe is your oyster among its own citizens as well. The development of low-cost airlines and transport infrastructure has encouraged spontaneous travel and so-called second tier destinations have a great opportunity to market themselves within Europe. Just consider the hundreds of cities that even the most seasoned European traveller still has to visit and the events of 25 years ago in Berlin have opened up so many more. Cities are the dots that join up tourism in Europe […].

NEWS AIR Bangkok Airways and Aeroflot’s Codeshare Agreement

LOT Moves to Heathrow’s Terminal 2

OT Polish Airlines has started operations in T2 Terminal the most modern area of Heathrow Airport, also known as the Queen’s Terminal. The new terminal offers unprecedented comfort to Heathrow’s passengers through a range of premium facilities. Upon arrival to the airport, all LOT Polish Airlines economy, economy plus and business passengers have 66 automatic check-in kiosks and baggage desks at their disposal. They can then proceed to one of the 27 security check points which are significantly reducing the check-in time and which enable travellers to reach the departure area within just several minutes. Additionally, passengers of LOT Polish Airlines business class can enjoy the new executive lounge with a view over one of the world’s busiest runways.

hailand’s first private airline, Bangkok Airways and the Russian flag carrier, Aeroflot, have recently announced the commencement of their codeshare agreement on Bangkok Airways’ selected flights across Thailand. The new partnership is carefully designed so as to enable passengers of Aeroflot a smooth transit in Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport to a network of popular tourist destinations such as Chiang Mai, Samui, Phuket and Krabi, and from Phuket to Samui/Bangkok. In addition, the deal provides Aeroflot passengers an opportunity to enjoy a range of Bangkok Airways’ premium services such as check-through service and lounge access.

Finnair Boosts Its European Network

Azerbaijan Airlines Increases Frequency on Astrakhan Route

St. Petersburg

A kno u o y d i D

innair has expanded its European outreach with several improvements to its network, both in the air and on the ground. The airline has partnered with Finnish railway operator, VR, to offer combined air and rail tickets between St. Petersburg and Helsinki, bringing more route options to its passengers. The train ride is just three and a half hours long, with border and customs procedures being done on board the train and en route to save time. “We believe intermodality offers interesting potential for enhancing connections for travellers,” said Pekka Vauram, CEO, Finnair. The carrier has also announced a new Airbus A320 service to Split in Croatia, which will be offered throughout summer 2015.

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n is akha most r t s A e al of th one lticultur ia? u s m in Ru s s citie

zerbaijan Airlines has recently boosted the number of flights from Baku to the Russian city of Astrakhan to two per week. The second weekly service started operating on November 1. The aircraft is scheduled to depart from the Azerbaijani capital on Saturdays at 19:00 and arrive to Astrakhan International Airport at 19:20 on the same day. Return flights are set for Sundays, with departures from Astrakhan being fixed for 03:15 and arrivals to Baku at 05:35. Azerbaijan Airlines offers two-class seat configuration, business and economy, across its fleet.

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AGENTS NEWS

TUI Travel Top Carbon Management Performance

UI Travel has been ranked fourth in Carbon Clear’s annual ranking of the FTSE 100 companies. The report from Carbon Clear, the carbon management organisation, assesses the best practice carbon reporting processes, strategy and performance of FTSE 100 companies. This was achieved by scoring publicly available information from each company against 67 reporting criteria. The analysis, which was carried out in the summer, focussed on how companies measure, report and verify their carbon footprint, their existing and planned strategies for reducing emissions, their actual carbon reductions and their work to engage stakeholders with their climate change programmes. TUI Travel scored consistently high due to its well-rounded carbon management programme.

ETOA’s GEM Opens for Brazilians

his year’s Global European Marketplace (GEM), the flagship event of European Tour Operators Association (ETOA), welcomed leading Brazilian tour operators following a partnership between ETOA, the European Travel Commission and Brazilian Tour Operators Association (BRAZTOA). The event was opened to outside partners for the first time ever, with BRAZTOA buyers meeting with European tourism suppliers. Martine Ainsworth-Wells, director of marketing and commerce, ETOA, said, “With the total outbound Brazilian market valued in excess of USD26.2billion annually, Europe must work hard to increase the estimated 3.8 million arrivals from Brazil […]. The delegation of BRAZTOA […] at this year's GEM only amplifies the event's status as a leading travel trade event for those seeking to connect with important growth markets.”

kn u o y d i D

Thomas Cook Partners With Zapp

homas Cook Group recently partnered with Zapp, a bank-backed mobile payment initiative, in an effort to reduce check-out friction and create a seamless online experience for customers. As of mid-2015, Thomas Cook clients will be offered a secure and simple way to pay online through their existing bank account and mobile device. The move is part of the group’s efforts to boost online and mobile booking conversions. “We know that customers want to make bookings and payments online and through their mobile devices as part of the changing landscape of how they book their holiday – annual web booked revenues now represent approximately GBP3 billion (USD4.7 billion); mobile and tablet bookings almost GBP0.5 billion (USD7.91 million),” explained Harriet Green, CEO, Thomas Cook Group.

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lls A se ZTO nt of A R B erce lling 90 p n trave a i il ? Braz market

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TRAVEL TALK

Russia, CIS and the Baltics also offer opportunities for our new brands

ELIE YOUNES Senior vice president, The Rezidor Hotel Group

“Long-term expertise, deep knowledge of the region and trustful relationships to owners are crucial for our mutual success. Together with our business partners, we aim to further position Radisson Blu as the premier upper upscale brand in the region’s key markets and to grow our midscale brand Park Inn by Radisson in economically vibrant destinations that often lack international quality accommodation. Russia, CIS and the Baltics also offer opportunities for our new brands Radisson Red in the lifestyle select segment and Quorvus Collection in the luxury segment.”

We continue to improve our business and customer offering

KENNY JACOBS Chief marketing officer, Ryanair

“Our new partnership with Amadeus is a significant development for Ryanair and for businesses and customers across Europe as we continue to improve our business and customer offering. As Europe’s largest airline, we will carry over 87 million customers this year on the largest route network, connecting 186 airports in 30 countries. With more than 27 percent of our customers already travelling on business, we are continuing to improve Europe’s best business service […].”

Our new direct services […] will revolutionise travel

NICOLAS PETROVIC CEO, Eurostar International

“After 20 years of leading the way in cross-channel highspeed rail travel, our sights are now set on expanding further afield and making rail the obvious choice for short-haul travel. With passenger numbers and sales revenues increasing yearon-year, we are well placed for the next phase of growth. Our new direct services to Provence and Amsterdam will revolutionise travel to these destinations and mark the start of a new chapter for our business.”

TRAVEL TALK IS YOUR SPACE – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, frustrations and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel

25 NOVEMBER 2014

TRAVEL CHANNELS

Scandic Staff Prepares for Jamie’s Italian Launch As diners across the Nordic countries await the regional debut of Jamie’s Italian restaurant at Scandic Anglais hotel in Stockholm, key staff at the new outlet have completed an intense training at Jamie Oliver’s restaurants in the UK.

he training was aimed at enabling the staff to run the restaurant in line with Jamie’s standards, and trainees were closely guided by Gennaro Contaldo, Jamie Oliver’s own mentor back when he was at the start of his career. “There is no cutting corners and you need a 100 percent understanding of everyone’s roles in the restaurant. This is an approach that’s close to our hearts here at Scandic too,” said Ulrika Garbrant, vice president, food and beverage, Scandic Hotels.

Eurostar Reinvents Its Brussels Business Lounge

Aeroflot to Conduct Scientific Research

uring the recently held Open Innovations Forum, Aeroflot has signed an agreement with Moscow State Technical University of Civil Aviation (MSTU CA) to conduct a scientific research on the possibility of giving remote work access to different categories of Aeroflot staff. Andrey Polozov-Yablonskiy, head of innovative development, Aeroflot, explained, “The aviation business is largely an information one and there is a hypothesis that 2,500 – 3,500 employees will be able to work in the new conditions for themselves and for the company. The main goal for the university is to determine such kind of conditions, conduct analysis of the effectiveness and develop forms of control.”

Berlin’s Popularity Drops in August

T Eurostar's business lounge in Brussels

levating the level of comfort for its passengers, Eurostar International unveiled its fully refurbished Brussels business premier lounge. The revamped relaxation hub now boasts functionalities like digital screens and iPads, easy wireless Internet connection, as well perimeter lighting which provides the effect of natural light. Refreshed food offerings, selection of newspapers and magazines, a fully stocked bar and a reception desk are also available. Nick Mercer, commercial director, Eurostar International, confirmed, “We are committed to improving our customers’ business experience with a seamless journey on both our core and connecting routes, and the new Brussels business lounge is a key part of this.”

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ourist arrivals to Berlin amounted to 1,106,600 in August, noting a 1.5 percent decrease compared to August 2013. Excluding domestic tourists, the foreign segment reached 451,003 travellers, while 321,149 of those were Europeans. Italy was Berlin’s best-performing feeder market as it sent out 44,311 visitors, while in terms of overnight stays the highest figure was recorded from the UK market and reached 815,005. Italy followed with 677,783 overnight stays. For the first eight months of the year, the German capital received 7.7 million tourists, signalling a year-on-year surge of 3.8 percent.

Berlin

WHO’S MOVED

JOE SLATTERY

STEPHANE GRAS

Joe Slattery has been promoted to senior vice president, global marketing and sales for Holland America Line. In this newly created role, he will oversee marketing and distribution in all worldwide markets, developing initiatives that support the company’s revenue growth objectives. A 21-year company veteran, Slattery has significantly expanded the reach and depth of the company’s international sales initiatives, and his guidance drove the success of Holland America Line’s offices in Rotterdam, the UK and Australia, as well as growth in emerging markets around the world. Since 2008, Slattery has been Holland America Line’s vice president, international sales and marketing. He joined the company in 1993 as a marketing product manager.

Stephane Gras has been appointed hotel manager at Four Seasons Hotel Prague, where he will be supporting the general manager in overseeing the day-to-day operations of the property. Prior to this new assignment, Gras was hotel manager at Four Seasons Hotel Baku, where he played a key role in the opening of the property. With a degree from Ecole Hotelière de Lausanne, he joined Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in 1999 and gained extensive hospitality experience in Texas, California, Hawaii, New York and Cairo. He previously served at Four Seasons Hotel Prague as director of food and beverage back in 2007, and now, bringing along a wealth of knowledge and skills, he is to utilise his extensive food and beverage experience.

MARK KAMMERER

SUSANNE KRAUSWINKLER

Mark Kammerer has recently been named vice president, international marketing and sales for Holland America Line and Seabourn. He is set to report to Joe Slattery, Holland America Line’s senior vice president, global marketing and sales. Having proven himself to be a creative thinker and inspiring leader, in this role he will be responsible for the sales offices in the UK, the Netherlands and Australia, in addition to both companies’ growing international business. In his previous positions at Holland America Line, Kammerer was in charge of marketing and North American sales, as well as worldwide cruise marketing. Prior to joining the cruise line, he held posts at several leading travel industry organisations including Virtuoso and Expedia.

Susanne Kraus-Winkler was been elected HOTREC's president, the trade association of hotels, restaurants and cafés in Europe. She has been a member of HOTREC executive committee since 2004 and vice president since 2010, while she also boasts a long-standing management experience in tourism and hospitality in Austria and is a founding partner of the LOISIUM Wine & Spa Resort. Kraus-Winkler is also a board member of APHA, the Austrian Association of Hotels, and holds several positions at the Austrian Chamber of Commerce. Together with HOTREC executive committee, her priorities will be to pursue the association’s modernisation in order to maximise its influence at the European Union level and make it an even more visible and service-oriented organisation.

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PHOTO ALBUM

Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to. Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...

Heathrow offers scents of the globe to celebrate the full opening of Terminal 2

VisitScotland welcomes football icon David Beckhamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advert in Highlands

Moxy Milan, the new economy design hotel in Italy, held an artist-in-residence competition

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Female stars took to the sky to speed-mentor 190 schoolgirls on the London Eye to mark International Day of the Girl

The European hotel industry acknowledges Gabriel Escarrer of MeliĂĄ Hotels International, as new CEO of the year in the European Hospitality Awards 2014

H10 Hotels received the award for the Best Hotel Chain 2014 in the Hotel Initiative Awards ceremony

NEWS & EVENTS EVENTS Poland Hosts 94th OECD Tourism Committee

he 94th session of Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Tourism Committee was held in Poland for the first time. The meeting was officially opened by Andrzej Biernat, sport and tourism minister, Poland, and was attended by 90 delegates representing 39 member states and invited nonmember countries. OECD is committed to democracy and the market economy, providing tools to compare policy experiences, seek answers to common problems and identify good practices. Meanwhile, the Tourism Committee of OECD acts as a forum for exchange and for monitoring policies affecting the development of domestic and international tourism.

EVENTS TT WARSAW Warsaw, Poland November 27 – 29 www.ttwarsaw.pl One of the leading Polish shows in the Central and Eastern Europe targeted at the tourist industry.

INTERNATIONAL LUXURY TRAVEL MARKET (ILTM)

Domodedovo Airport Reports Successful World Routes

ussia’s largest air transport hub, Moscow Domodedovo Airport, revealed that it had participated at this year’s edition of World Routes, held in Chicago, the US, reporting a successful event experience. One of the most productive meetings, according to the official announcement, was that with Gulf Air, the national airline

of Bahrain, which had expressed plans to establish a direct link between Bahrain International Airport and Moscow Domodedovo Airport, bringing yet another new connection to the Russian capital. Currently, this buzzing hub offers more than 240 destinations worldwide, and served more than 30 million passengers in 2013.

Sweden Launches Arctic Subzero Obstacle Race

Cannes, France December 1 – 4 www.iltm.com ILTM is luxury travel's flagship event, where agents and advisors meet luxury experiences.

EAST MEDITERRANEAN INTERNATIONAL TOURISM AND TRAVEL EXHIBITION (EMITT) Istanbul, Turkey January 22 – 25, 2015 www.emittistanbul.com This edition will assign an entire hall to healthcare, aesthetics, thermal and spa tourism.

ollowing the latest trend in fitness, Icehotel, in Sweden, has teamed up with Toughest, an obstacle race organiser, in order to launch a subzero race spanning a 5km course, covering 20 obstacles inside and around the hotel. Toughest has brought a new dimension to obstacle course racing by setting the race to a subzero setting, with the designers and engineers of Icehotel on its side, a unique course unlike the current norm will be created. The impending race will be limited to 500 participants, and will take place in April 2015.

FITUR Madrid, Spain January 28 – February 1, 2015 www.ifema.es A global meeting point for tourism professionals for the Ibero-American markets.

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