10 NOVEMBER 2016 ISSUE 49
15 UK BACKS HEATHROW AIRPORT EXPANSION
10 SHORT BREAK
Sofia
18 CONNECTING WARSAW AND LOS ANGELES
06 Cruising 07 Agent News 16 Airports
MARKET UPDATE
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IATA: 7.2 BILLION PASSENGERS BY 2035
TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel ASSISTANT EDITOR Rita Kasziba JOURNALISTS Ellen Petty Natalie James CONTRIBUTORS Ana Mladenovic Dominique Christou SALES & SALES SUPPORT Maria Demetriadou Magda Christou Raluca Apostolescu DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis 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
By 2035, some 7.2 billion globetrotters are set to travel the world, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
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he figure is almost the double of this year’s 3.8 billion travellers and demonstrates a 3.7 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR), which is in line with the central scenario outlined in IATA’s 20-Year Air Passenger Forecast. Based on the second scheme of the analysis, if trade liberalisation gathers pace, demand could even triple the 2015 level. Conversely, if the current trend towards trade protectionism gains strength, development could lower to a 2.5 percent annual CAGR which would see passenger numbers stand at 5.8 billion by 2035. “Runways, terminals, security and baggage systems, air traffic control, and a whole raft of other elements need to be expanded to be ready for the growing number of flyers. It cannot be done by the industry alone,” stressed Alexandre de Juniac, CEO, IATA.
WORLDWIDE REPRESENTATIVES Representative for North, South & Central America, and the Caribbean: Neil Strickland GlobeTM Tel: +19542969515 neil@globetm.com
HOTELS IN LONDON PROVE POPULAR
Representative for Indian subcontinent: Faredoon Kuka RMA Media Tel: +912229253735 kuka@rmamedia.com
London
Representative for UK & Ireland and Scandinavia: David Simpson Simpson Media Tel: +447900885456 david@simpson-media.com
EXCHANGE RATES
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9.11.2016
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1.08
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114.45
2
Yen
Total RevPAR at London accommodation establishments stands 35 percent above the regional UK average, compared to 16 percent in 2000.
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TR’s Benchmarking Beyond RevPAR study, which polled a consistent sample of nearly 45,000 hotel bedrooms across the country, discovered that total revenue levels in the capital have increased 25.3 percent over the last 15 years, versus a growth of just 7.6 percent for regional addresses. The statistics are in line with the destinations’ visitor volumes; arrivals to London rose 15 percent over the past one and a half decade, to 31.5 million in 2015, making the capital the second most visited city in the world.
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NEWS
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Record Visitor Numbers for Britain
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he long-term pattern of growth continued in July with 3.8 million visits, a year-on-year rise of two percent. Spending also increased four percent in the month under review to GBP2.5 billion (EUR2.8 billion). Demand from Gulf countries was higher than ever before in 2015, with nearly 724,000 arrivals and spending standing at GBP1.59 billion (EUR1.77 billion). The outlook remains positive, with 288,000 GCC tourists arriving in the first half of this year (H1) with an accumulated spend of GBP465 million (EUR516 million). Notably, the number of visitors from the UAE rose 12 percent, marking the strongest H1 on record.
UNWTO and Greece Strengthen Relations
Stonehenge
In 2015, a record 36 million international travellers visited the UK with expenditure reaching GBP22.1 billion (EUR24.5 billion), as shown in VisitBritain’s annual review.
Extensive Opportunities for the Silk Road
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Athens
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hristodoulos Lazaris, ambassador to Egypt, Greece, presented his credentials to Taleb Rifai, secretary general, World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), accrediting him as a permanent representative of the Mediterranean country to the tourism body. During the meeting, Rifai expressed to Lazaris UNWTO’s determination and commitment to continue strengthening its close relationship with Greece. The prospects for tourism in the destination are positive as economic recovery continues and new air routes open from emerging countries, such as Russia and China, as well as from traditional source markets. International tourism in Greece has shown notable developments in recent years with almost 24 million travellers on record in 2015, up seven percent.
he World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), together with Mongolia’s Ministry of Environment and Tourism and the World Cities Scientific Development Alliance (WCSDA), organised the International Silk Road Conference on Nomadic Tourism and Sustainable Cities in Ulaanbaatar. In recent years, the Silk Road has become one of the most visited international travel routes. The increase in arrivals, however, has also created various challenges related to the protection of the environment and the maintenance of adequate heritage standards. Representatives of the countries agreed that the area holds promising potential for the future, and long-term success will depend upon stronger collaboration in the three key areas identified in the Silk Road Action Plan, including marketing and promotion, capacity building and destination management and travel facilitation.
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NEWS
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High Numbers for UK Tourism
Malta Promoted to French Travel Agents
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he UK posted record-breaking inbound tourism figures for August with 3.8 million visits in the statistics, up two percent over the same month in 2015. Overseas visitors to the UK spent GBP2.6 billion (EUR2.9 billion) in August, four percent more than in 2015. The volume of trips from European countries reached an alltime-high 16.8 million for the first eight months of the year, a yearon-year surge of three percent. Tracey Crouch, tourism minister, UK, said, “We continue to attract a record number of tourists from across the globe, which is not only great news for the sector, but the whole economy.”
A Malta
t IFTM Top Résa, Héliades and Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) launched its scheme to publicise the country to more than 150 French travel agents. At the show, Malta and Gozo were presented as ideal winter break destinations, and the country’s rich calendar of events was showcased with an emphasis on Valetta’s title as the European Capital of Culture in 2018. Héliades began trips to Malta in November with more operators due to follow suit from April 2017 onwards.
ETOA and ETC to Boost Ties with China
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ome 35 tourism enterprises from Ireland attended International Meetings and Events Exhibition (IMEX) America in Las Vegas. Now in its sixth year, IMEX America is an important event targeting decision-makers in the lucrative MICE sector. More than 3,000 buyers attended the three-day show which provided valuable business and networking opportunities for the participating tourism operators from Ireland. Alison Metcalfe, head, North America, Tourism Ireland, said, “IMEX America is an important platform for Tourism Ireland and our partners to showcase the world-class conference, meetings and incentive facilities on offer right around the island of Ireland. Overall, business sentiment at the show has been really positive, with interest in Ireland for conferences and incentive travel remaining high and advance business for 2017 looking good.”
Dublin
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uropean Tour Operators Association (ETOA) and European Travel Commission (ETC) revealed plans for the World Bridge Tourism project which will involve hosting 100 tourism suppliers by May 2017 to facilitate meetings with Chinese outbound operators at ITB China 2017. Additionally, ETOA Global European Marketplace will be held in November 2017, providing further business-to-business networking opportunities for professionals. The events will be supported by a programme of research and webinars aimed at increasing the understanding of the needs of travellers from the Asian country. Coinciding with the EU-China Year of Tourism 2016, World Bridge Tourism will focus on the growing importance of the origin market as well as the changing preferences and behaviour patterns of Chinese visitors.
Ireland Eyes North American Markets
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NEWS CRUISING
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Norwegian Bliss to Take on Alaska
Norwegian Cruise Line’s new vessel, Norwegian Bliss, is set to become the first ship custom-built for the ultimate Alaska cruise experience when it enters service in June 2018.
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he 4,000-passenger vessel will sail to America’s Last Frontier from Seattle as the company’s first ship to make a call in the Emerald City. “Alaska is one of the top destinations for our guests to explore and we are thrilled to be the first cruise line to offer our guests the opportunity to experience this coveted destination aboard a brand new, state-of-the-art cruise ship custom designed for Alaska, the first of its kind to ever debut in Seattle,” said Andy Stuart, CEO, Norwegian Cruise Line.
New Chairman to Lead CLIA
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Kyriakos Anastassiadis
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ruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Europe has appointed Kyriakos Anastassiadis, CEO, Celestyal Cruises, as the organisation’s chairman in Europe. Anastassiadis takes on the crucial role of representing the views of smaller CLIA Europe members like Celestyal Cruises and others, when he takes up the role on January 01, 2017. “We have an effective team of professionals working at CLIA and are developing a stronger presence in Europe. I remain fully committed to matching my peers’ trust with my outmost dedication during the upcoming years,” said Anastassiadis.
s part of their joint venture, Carnival Corporation, China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) and China Investment Capital Corporation have signed a memorandum of agreement for the order of two new liners, with the option of an additional two vessels. The ships will be built by recently partnered CSSC and Fincantieri and are expected to be delivered in 2022. Initially, Carnival Corporation’s domestic Chinese brand will be launched upon purchase from the company’s existing fleet and homeported in China. The cruise line’s joint venture has also been granted approval from the Chinese government to officially incorporate Hong Kong.
Company representatives at the signing
Carnival Orders Chinese-built Ships
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NEWS AGENT NEWS
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Etihad Aviation Group and TUI Collaborate
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tihad Aviation Group and German touristic giant TUI are in discussions to create a strong European leisure airline group focussed on point-to-point travel services between key markets. The partnership is expected to consolidate the touristic operations of airberlin group and TUIfly, including the aircraft currently operated by TUIfly for airberlin under a wet-lease agreement, into a new airline group
established by TUI AG and Etihad Aviation Group. The new airline group is envisioned to serve a broad network of destinations from Germany, Austria as well as Switzerland. Etihad Aviation Group comprises four business divisions, including Etihad Airways, Etihad Airways Engineering, Hala Group, and Airline Equity Partners.
Pacific World Takes on Northern Europe
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ingapore-based destination management company, Pacific World has announced the further expansion of its operations in Northern Europe with the opening of new offices in Copenhagen and Amsterdam. Commenting on the development, Selina Chavry, global managing director, Pacific World, said, “Strengthening our reach in these very different destinations will bring lots more exciting event options for our clients. Our new incentive products designed around emotions and motivations for experiential events tick many of the boxes for both destinations that are known for their progressive cultures of creativity, sustainability and the use of innovative technology in events.� There are strong parallels between the two capitals with established track records in hosting large-scale global conference and tradeshows.
Copenhagen
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NEWS TECHNOLOGY
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St Giles Presents Virtual Reality St Giles Hotels has launched St Giles 360, a virtual reality experience that transports guests to the top locations close to some of the company’s properties across the globe, including London, Penang, Sydney and Manila.
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Penang
he immersive videos, created by hotel guests and social media influencers, can be viewed through a mobile application. Additionally, the initiative includes a dedicated new website and invites visitors to take part in a competition. The technology is an extension of the group’s Be Central campaign which aims to connect travellers with enriching experiences just steps away from its properties.
Marriott Teams Up with Sabre
Paris
Welcome to Paris App Launched
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eveloped in collaboration with Orange, Paris Convention and Visitors Bureau has presented a bilingual mobile application, Welcome to Paris. Aiming to help French and European travellers explore the capital, the platform highlights the city’s best addresses and events as well as suggesting walking tours and practical information. The geolocation feature will also help tourists find their points of interest in the immediate area. Additionally, users will be able to purchase fast track tickets for selected museums and exhibitions. The service, available in French and English, will be updated daily as it seeks to become the essential companion to any Parisian city break.
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arriott International and technology expert, Sabre, have unveiled a new distribution and booking solution, providing thousands of authorised wholesalers, destination marketing companies and tour operators with access to real-time rates and inventory of more than 4,200 properties around the world. The innovative platform is in line with the company’s strategy to transform the wholesale and leisure segment by offering dynamic rates and automated reservations, replacing antiquated processes for contracting, accessing inventory and booking hotels. Approved wholesalers can now search real-time net rates and rooms globally to create tailor‐made packages for their customers.
Sabre Utilises TripCase
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abre customers, including airlines, hotels and travel management companies, are expected to send more than one billion targeted messages to travellers this year through the TripCase open messaging platform. By accessing the TripCase platform, travel agencies and suppliers can build brand loyalty with on-thego travellers, merchandise travel services and provide better service beyond the booking. “The TripCase platform will allow us to develop robust report capabilities providing agents and suppliers valuable insight into their customers’ behaviour and integrate important functionalities such as check-in, loyalty programme features or booking into TripCase,” John Samuel, senior vice president, Sabre Design.
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NEWS ACCOMMODATION
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IHG: 100 Hotels in Germany
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) now has over 100 addresses that have been signed or opened in Germany, one of the company’s top 10 global markets.
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Munich
he brand-new Holiday Inn Express Munich City – West marked the milestone, joining 64 properties across the country in operation with a further 35 projects in the pipeline, all of which are due to open in the next three to five years. “Reaching 100 hotels open or signed in Germany is an important milestone for IHG. We are looking forward to rolling out more next generation hotels across Germany and the rest of Europe,” commented Angela Brav, CEO, Europe, IHG.
H10 Casa Mimosa
Barcelona Welcomes H10 Property
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10 Hotels has inaugurated its newest establishment in the heart of Barcelona. H10 Casa Mimosa boasts 48 rooms, a roof-top terrace, and various dining outlets to attract all types of travellers. Additionally, guests of the new address can enjoy a swimming pool, chill-out terrace and meeting space that can cater to up to 100 people. Besides a business corner and a mini gym, those booking a room can also take advantage of free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
25 NOVEMBER 10 APRIL 2016 2016
9
SHORT BREAK SOFIA
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A CITY TO WATCH
Out For
ACCOUNTING FOR OVER 39 PERCENT OF THE NATIONAL GDP, SOFIA’S METROPOLITAN AREA PLAYS A DOMINANT ROLE IN THE BULGARIAN ECONOMY, WITH TOURISM BEING ONE OF THE MAIN PILLARS OF THIS MECHANISM.
MARY KAMMITSI WRITES
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aving contributed some USD19.3 billion (EUR17.7 billion) to the tination Cities Index by MaterCard, that listed Sofia among the top 10 fastesteconomy in 2015, the capital remains the steam engine of the coun- growing European destination cities based on the compound annual growth try’s development. Over and above that, according to Euromonitor rate (CAGR) of international overnight visitors between 2009 and this year, International, Sofia is also among the most service-focussed destina- with a nearly seven percent CAGR. tions in Eastern Europe, making it an attractive “According to the same index, more than 87 percent of alternative to travellers. tourists visit Sofia for leisure and according to our statisAdding to this, the city is considered a very tics the purpose of visit for 40 percent of them is culture,” SOFIA IN BRIEF affordable option; a major draw for internationadded Ivo Marinov, director, Sofia Tourism Administration. al tourist visiting the region. In fact, in the 2015 As Marinov revealed, in line with recent trends, the TripAdvisor TripIndex Room Service Report, which current year continues to deliver notable increases. The Country: Bulgaria examined 48 world cities, Sofia ranked on top promising statistics follow a successful 2015 when guests Currency: Bulgarian Lev in terms of affordability, with Germans, Greeks, staying at accommodation establishments in the capiPopulation: 1.2 million Britons, Italians, Americans, Israelis, Turks and tal exceeded, for the first time, the one million mark. As Calling Code: +359 Macedonians being particularly interested in its Marinov pinpointed, the figure represents a robust 63.5 Time Zone: GMT+2:00 value for money offerings. percent growth over 2010. Sofia Tourism Administration’s leadership As for this year, both arrivals and overnight stays are referred to the latest edition of the Global Desalready up eight percent.
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SHORT BREAK SOFIA
RAPID GROWTH More flights into the city have also contributed to the industry’s development. After celebrating a record four million passengers at the end of 2015, Sofia Airport continues to deliver notable increases. “This year, 23 new direct routes were announced to the Bulgarian capital. Ryanair started scheduled services to Sofia in April and opened its base with three aircraft at the beginning of September,” noted Mariana Kirilova, director, marketing and analysis, Sofia Airport. As she further explained, Wizz Air has enhanced its presence with six based aircraft while the seventh is set to join the fleet before the end of the year. In addition, Bulgarian Air also introduced three seasonal itineraries during the busy summer period, further boosting traffic at the hub. As a result, between January and September, aircraft movements rose 13 percent, leading to a 15.2 percent rise in passenger figures and a 13.4 percent growth in cargo volumes. “This makes us optimistic for another record of 50,000 landings and take-offs and about 4.7 million passengers by the end of the year,” suggested Kirilova. ENHANCED OFFERINGS With regards to growth and diversification, Sofia is also focussing on its cultural credentials. According to Marinov, the city has the potential to become a leading European destination in this aspect. “Sofia’s cultural heritage – tangible and intangible – is a unique tourist resource. We aim to position Sofia at key markets as a year-round destination for cultural tourism; a destination that offers its guests dynamic and authentic experiences, excellent conditions for business […], with the added value of moun-
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tain, pilgrimage, eco and gourmet tourism,” enthused Marinov. Further adding to the attractions of the city, Kirilova indicated that the municipality invests a lot in the enhancement of urban environment, additional attractions and improved tourist information. “In 2018, Sofia will be the European Capital of Sport, an initiative promoting mass sport in an urban environment,” she added. According to Euromonitor International, the European Capital of Sport award aims to address issues related to sports infrastructure, and Sofia is set to significantly benefit from a wide range of public physical activities with infrastructure developments such as outdoor gyms and new parks. To further consolidate Sofia’s sports profile, Sofia Airport also welcomes high volumes of seasonal flights during the ski season. “The city’s administration works towards strengthening Sofia’s position as a competitive European tourist destination by raising the attractiveness of the city for both its citizens and visitors,” concluded Marinov.
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Stockholm to Welcome Downtown Camper by Scandic
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arriott International has signed a new agreement with Chandris Hotels, marking the company’s return to Athens, following an absence of more than two years. Once the existing property completes its USD15 million (EUR13.7 millon) transformation in 2018, Athens Marriott Hotel will boast 366 guestrooms, two contemporary restaurants, a roof-top bar, fitness facilities, a swimming pool and state-of-the-art meeting space. As Carlton Ervin, chief development officer, Europe, Marriott International, highlighted, the project reaffirms the two companies’ confidence in the Greek tourism industry.
Downtown Camper by Scandic
Athens
Marriott Re-enters Greece
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candic Hotels Group’s fifth signature hotel, Downtown Camper by Scandic, is due to open in Stockholm at the end of summer 2017. Upon completion of extensive renovations to the former Scandic Sergel Plaza, the rebranded property will aim to bring a sense of the nature into the city, with a base camp style experience centered on wellness and community. As well as an in-room bartender, a lifestyle concierge will also be available to guests, offering advice on extraordinary experiences such as a kayak tour of the Swedish capital, roof-top yoga or evening group runs. In an effort to blur the boundaries of work and leisure, the hotel will also feature personal rooms and event spaces as an alternative to traditional conference rooms.
Rendering of JO&JOE room
AccorHotels Unveils JO&JOE Brand
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n a bid to cater to the vast community of millennial trendsetters, AccorHotels has announced the latest addition to its economy-brand portfolio, JO&JOE. The group is planning to open in 50 locations by 2020, aiming to appeal to both visitors and locals, through the promotion of community cohesion. The properties will host events such as concerts and yoga classes, and facilitate social interaction through a dedicated mobile application, developed in partnership with Webschool Factory. JO&JOE is said to revolutionise hotel design with a disruptive approach, breaking away from the conventional vertical distribution of spaces. The catering offerings will focus on affordable craft cuisine and sharing, while the central bar will be highly visible from the outside to encourage locals to visit.
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Eurostars Expands Prague Footprint
Sheraton Grand Unveiled in London
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heraton Grand London Park Lane has been added to the Sheraton Grand brand portfolio following the complete renovation of an existing property. Inspired by the building’s heritage and location, the new design introduces modern and stylish touches throughout the hotel. In addition to 303 revamped guest rooms, the transformation includes the Palm Court lounge with its stained glass ceiling as well as the Grade II listed Art Deco Ballroom and Silver Gallery. Commenting on the new offering, Brian McGuiness, senior vice president, Sheraton Hotels and Resorts, said, “A major global hub for travel, London is a crucial market for Sheraton, Marriott International’s most global brand, to have a premium flagship property in.”
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urostars Hotel has inaugurated its third property, Exe City Park, in the Czech capital. Formerly operated as Hotel Vienna House Easy Chopin, the three-star hotel is set in a classical building fitted with modern and elegant interior design. The establishment features 80 units, a snack bar and a 25-person capacity meeting room. As Amancio López Seijas, president, Hotusa Group, noted, the company has not discarded the possibility of new projects in the area. Eurostars Hotels’ portfolio includes a total of 162 Eurostars Hotels and Exe Hotels branded addresses in 16 countries.
Sheraton Grand London Park Lane
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Hotelbeds Joins with AccorHotels
Hotusa Hotels Expands Portfolio
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n the third quarter of the year, Hotusa Hotels further grew its portfolio with the addition of 90 new member establishments, 11 in Spain and 79 in a total of 20 countries in Europe, America, Asia and Africa. This year alone, Hotusa Hotels has welcomed a total of 325 associated properties. Amongst the new members are 21 addresses in France, where Hotusa Hotels has more than 350 options; six in the US as well as five new additions in Italy and Portugal. Moreover, in Latin America, 24 properties joined the collection from countries such as Chile, Colombia, Panama, Mexico, Dominican Republic and Costa Rica.
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otelbeds has announced a strategic partnership with AccorHotels that could double sales for the hotelier through the bedbank, over the next two years. The enhanced partnership is focussed on consolidating and increasing overlapping business by identifying the areas where the strategies of the two companies align and can support each other to expand into new markets, gain new business and generate growth by diversifying distribution models. As a result, Hotelbeds has recently registered its best-ever bookings results from the hotel chain.
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Italy to Welcome Second IHG Hotel
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Radisson Blu Maintains European Presence
Milan
Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne
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nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has announced the signing of Hotel Indigo Milan - Corso Monforte, the brand’s second project in the country. Scheduled to open in early 2018 under a franchise agreement with Amapa Group, a historic palace building will be converted into a hotel featuring 55 rooms, a destination restaurant, courtyard and a leisure and fitness centre. Hylko Versteeg, associate vice president, Southern Europe, IHG, commented, “Here in Europe our strategy is focussed on growing in key urban centres and established destinations, which describes Milan perfectly.”
Moscow Hotel Showcases Gastronomy
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he Rezidor Hotel Group has confirmed a 10-year lease extension for Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne after negotiations with Invesco Real Estate Fund. The property, which will remain under the brand for the next 20 years, will undergo a EUR7 million renovation as part of the agreement. Furthermore, Radisson Blu Hotel, Lyon has reopened its doors following three years of refurbishments worth EUR40 million, a co-investment between the group and the hotel’s owner, Hibernia France. Commenting on the company’s asset management strategy, Philippe Dejonghe, senior vice president, asset management, The Rezidor Hotel Group, explained, “[...] Our management remains committed to investing in our core markets and trophy assets across Europe.”
Major Expansion for KÄMP Hotels
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Quadrum
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uadrum restaurant on the second floor of Four Seasons Hotel Moscow took part in the month-long Moscow Gastronomic Festival, where chefs of the best restaurants in the city prepared special tasting sets for guests. David Hemmerle, executive chef, Four Seasons Hotel Moscow, and Elias Caschili, chef, Quadrum, have created an offer consisting of four meals. The annual Moscow Gastronomic Festival has been held for more than 10 years and this year, 80 restaurants joined the event.
elsinki-based KÄMP Collection Hotels is investing almost EUR200 million in a major expansion programme, which will include the launch of the new St. George Hotel and the extension of the renowned Hotel Haven which overlooks Helsinki’s South Harbour. The group has seen a 20 percent increase in revenues in the first half of the year, fuelled by strong demand after improvements in existing hotels and a major marketing campaign establishing the Finnish capital as a must-visit destination for travellers. St. George Hotel is due to open in summer 2017, while the 55-room Hotel Haven is scheduled for an early 2017 debut.
10 NOVEMBER 2016
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MINI REPORT
UK BACKS HEATHROW AIRPORT EXPANSION
Following the British government’s decision to support Heathrow Airport’s expansion over the upgrade of Gatwick Airport, preparations have begun for the construction of the London hub’s third runway that will significantly enhance connections between the country and the rest of the world, further driving employment and investment.
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iscussing the project, John Holland-Kaye, CEO, Heathrow Airport said, “A new runway will open trade routes and create jobs up and down in the UK. Heathrow will play a key role in making our country stronger and fairer for everyone.” The result is the outcome of the unanimous and unambiguous recommendation of the Airports Commission in 2015, after a two and a half year, GBP20 million (EUR 22.15 million) study. Independent polling in June this year also showed that almost 70 percent of parliament members favoured Heathrow Airport’s development, while results in constituencies close to the airfield were said to have proved that there is more backing than opposition. The hub’s further expansion seems to be endorsed by businesses, trade unions and airlines as the best solution to the UK’s aviation capacity crunch. On the other hand, expressing his disappointment at the decision, Stewart Wingate, CEO, Gatwick Airport, said, “We do not believe this is the right answer for Britain. Gatwick has put forward a credible financeable and deliverable plan for expansion [and] stands ready to proceed when the time comes.” Heathrow Airport has spent GBP11 billion (EUR12.2 billion) over a decade to transform into a leading hub in 10 NOVEMBER 2016
Europe, with developments such as the new Terminal 2 and Terminal 5. The Airports Commission estimated that a new runway at Heathrow Airport would create up to 180,000 jobs and generate some GBP211 billion (EUR233.6 billion) of economic benefits. Speaking at London Build 2016, Phil Wilbraham, development director, Heathrow Airport, said, “This decision means the economic taps will be turned on and the British supply chain will benefit. We will sign the first contracts within the coming days and week, beginning the process of injecting tens of millions in to the British supply chain and supporting jobs across the UK.” With works expected to start in 2021, the airfield’s growth is expected to deliver more competition and choice for passengers. When it opens in 2025, the third runway will allow capacity for up to 40 additional long-haul destinations, making Britain the best connected country in the world.
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NEWS AIRPORTS
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Munich Airport Sets Up Subsidiary
UK and China Strengthen Ties
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Gatwick Airport
Budapest Airport
Budapest Airport Expands Network
aving already added 16 new destinations so far this year, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport has further grown its offering by welcoming the arrival of a direct link from Algeria. With the addition of Air Algérie’s twiceweekly link between Budapest and Algiers, the hub, which continues to record an average 10 percent passenger traffic increase per annum, will now offer more than 1,000 weekly seats to four North African locations. Welcoming the inaugural flight, Jost Lammers, CEO, Budapest Airport, said, “Air Algérie’s service further enhances our links to North Africa, and the carrier re-joins us during another year which see us continuing to outperform most European markets.”
Munich Airport
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n order to centralise its international activities in airport management and expert advice, Munich Airport International will set up a new subsidiary company for consultancy work in early 2017 as part of its new international business strategy. “In the last 20 years our international team based in Munich achieved significant results and gained international reputation in consulting airports and training staff. For reasons of market competitiveness we need to move closer to our clients,” explained Ralf Gaffal, managing director, Munich Airport International. The company also plans to open several sales offices around the globe, as well as expanding the services to operation and maintenance contracts and strengthening the international activities of operator company, Flughafen München’s airport academy.
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atwick Airport has welcomed a new agreement between the UK and Chinese governments to more than double the number of permitted flights between the countries, paving the way for further opportunities to increase operations between the airfield and the Asian destination. Under the new deal, the number of passenger services can now rise from the current maximum of 40 per week for each nation to up to 100, significantly boosting tourism and trade opportunities for the European state. Stewart Wingate, CEO, Gatwick Airport, said, “China is one of the UK’s most important growth markets and this deal will offer unrivalled opportunities to increase UK trade and tourism.”
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NEWS AIRPORTS
Ireland Air Traffic Rises
Record Figures in Munich
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igures released by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) indicate that the volume of traffic safely handled by air traffic control climbed 5.7 percent in September to 99,838 flights, compared to 94,473 during the same month in 2015. There was a year-on-year surge of 8.8 percent in Europe – US operations, and the month also saw a 1.4 percent hike in Ireland’s overflight traffic movements. Commercial terminal flights at Dublin rose 8.6 percent, while Cork and Shannon recorded increases of 12.1 percent and 3.3 percent, respectively.
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unich Airport handled around 300,000 takeoffs and landings in the first nine months of the year, 3.4 percent more than in the same period
in 2015. September saw the strongest growth of any month, with a 6.7 percent year-on-year increase to 36,690 aircraft movements. As a result, passenger volumes jumped 2.9 percent in the first three quarters to a new all-time high of approximately 32.2 million. In the months of July, August and September, a total of 12.3 million passengers were counted at the airfield – more than ever before in a single calendar quarter. The four million passenger mark, never before reached in a month, was exceeded twice in the third quarter, driven by strong demand for international itineraries.
Edinburgh Growth Continues in September
Warsaw Chopin Airport Unveils Audio Maps
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Edinburgh Airport
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espite a 2.5 percent decrease in the volume of domestic travellers in September, Edinburgh Airport has welcomed its fourth busiest month in terms of passenger traffic, with an 11 percent yearon-year increase, due to a 21.5 percent surge on international routes. In the past 12 months, a number of new European itineraries have been launched, including connections to Helsinki, Vienna and Reykjavik. The gateway has now the secondhighest percentage of inbound international tourists accounting for 40 percent of its total. Whilst noting that the hub is striving to attract additional airlines and routes, Gordon Dewar, CEO, Edinburgh Airport, called on the Scottish government to deliver a 50 percent reduction in air passenger duty to incentivise carriers to bring greater inbound tourism and business opportunities.
n collaboration with Chance for the Blind Foundation, Warsaw Chopin Airport has revealed its new interactive maps with audio information to aid passengers with visual impairments. The so-called typhlographic maps will advise users in both Polish and English of the most important nearby facilities, offer directions and assistance. The colours of the chart were selected to guarantee that those with colour blindness are also able to easily interpret the guide and have been constructed with resin to ensure that it is not only pleasant to touch but also resistant to damage. Furthermore, the plans are fitted with Bluetooth transmitters which visitors can pair with the airfield’s Your Way mobile application to remotely listen to the messages.
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NEWS AIR
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Connecting Warsaw and Los Angeles LOT Polish Airlines has revealed plans to further develop the airline’s transatlantic network.
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Los Angeles
s of April 03, 2017, the carrier will operate four weekly services from its Warsaw hub to Los Angeles. As Rafał Milczarski, CEO, LOT Polish Airlines, highlighted, the itinerary will mark the company’s debut on the West Coast. Describing Los Angeles as one of the most important and the most famous cities in the US, he added, “I am confident that California is not only the ideal destination for vacation, but also an increasingly important centre of business.”
Alitalia Boosts Winter Schedule
Austrian Airlines Adds Winter Sun Spots
Seychelles
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Havana
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tarting October 25, 2017, Austrian Airlines will initiate services to the Seychelles, with one direct flight a week. “Demand for direct flights to long-haul tourist destinations is high. In addition to Mauritius, Colombo and Havana, the Seychelles represent our fourth new destination within a period of only two years,” commented Andreas Otto, chief commercial officer, Austrian Airlines. As a result, Austrian Airlines will offer a total of five long-haul tourist destinations in its winter 2017/18 flight schedule. Up to two frequencies per week will be operated to both Mauritius and the Maldives, while Colombo will be linked to Vienna once a week.
TAP Grows Moroccan Network
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ffective from November 29, Alitalia will add a new direct nonstop service between Rome and Havana, while year-round services will be operated to Santiago, Mexico City and Beijing which were launched earlier this year. The Italian carrier will also improve its Spanish schedule with a new twice-weekly Rome – Tenerife service. Additionally, also during the winter, the airline will replace its Airbus A320 aircraft with larger Airbus A330 planes on its daily frequencies between Rome and Tehran. On the domestic network, the carrier will offer daily alternatives between Bologna and Catania and more connections from Milan to Bari, Catania and Pescara. Additional flights are also scheduled from Rome to Trieste and Catania, as well as between Naples and Catania.
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n response to the growing demand, TAP Portugal has doubled the number of flights operated between Lisbon and Marrakech. Passengers flying between the cities can now take advantage of 10 weekly frequencies, meaning a 132 percent boost in available seats. Apart from the popular hotspot of Marrakech, the airline also offers 14 flights to Casablanca and four weekly alternatives to Tangier, resulting in a total of 28 weekly frequencies between Portugal and Morocco.
Lisbon
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NEWS AIR
Air Transport Community Reaches Historic Emissions Deal
Flybe Adds Routes from Birmingham
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overnment, industry and civil society representatives have agreed on a new global market-based measure to reduce carbon dioxide emissions at International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) 39th assembly. With an impressive number of member states committing to the earliest stages, ICAO is confident that its Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) will be a positive contributor to the reduction of greenhouse gases. The scheme will be implemented during a voluntary pilot phase between 2021 – 2023, with the majority of countries required to participate from 2027. During the meeting, significant progress was reported across ICAO’s five strategic objectives for aviation safety, air navigation capacity and efficiency, aviation security and facilitation, the economic development of air transport and environmental protection.
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lybe has started operating two new year-round services from Birmingham to Rotterdam and Luxembourg. The convenient schedule offers daily flights to Luxembourg and twice-daily frequencies between Birmingham and Rotterdam, Monday to Friday, and one daily option at weekends. William Pearson, director, aviation development, Birmingham Airport, said, “These will be popular destinations for business travellers as well as offering excellent city breaks for our leisure passengers. We look forward to welcoming passengers travelling point to point, or through Birmingham, to access these European cities.”
Wizz Air: 13 Million Passengers in Warsaw
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Warsaw
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izz Air celebrated a major milestone after registering 13 million passengers at Warsaw Chopin Airport since the launch of the carrier's base in 2004. The airline recently added popular leisure destinations to its network from the Polish city, including Eilat, Porto, Reykjavik and Naples. Gábor Vásárhelyi, corporate communications manager, Wizz Air, commented, “This year we based an additional aircraft at Warsaw Chopin Airport commencing several new routes and bringing even more low fares and opportunities to Poland. Whether travelling on business or leisure, we look forward to welcoming our Warsaw passengers on board to enjoy our friendly services travelling to any of our 41 exciting Wizz destinations.”
TAP Passenger Volumes Soar
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n September, TAP Portugal recorded a 4.7 percent yearon-year increase in traveller numbers, having served 1.16 million customers with a seat load factor of 85.5 percent across the network, a rise of 2.4 percentage points. Continuing the airline’s positive trend throughout the year, demand for intercontinental services jumped 11.3 percent, while medium haul traffic climbed 2.7 percent. Furthermore, figures on US itineraries improved 104.5 percent due to a 92.4 percent boost in seat capacity. In an ongoing transformation process, the carrier has restructured its network with the introduction of changes in capacity and punctual frequency reductions in some deficit making routes, shifting the focus to popular itineraries.
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JOST LAMMERS
DIRECTOR GENERAL, AIRPORTS COUNCIL INTERNATIONAL EUROPE
CEO, BUDAPEST AIRPORT
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[The UK government] needs to truly embed air connectivity and sustainable airport development in its economic strategy
“While a positive development in itself, the [UK government’s decision to endorse Heathrow Airport’s expansion] is just a first step requiring both swift implementation and a plan for further airport capacity development – not least because this new runway at Heathrow will not be enough to meet future demand for air transport. An island economy lives or dies by its air connectivity.
If the UK government is serious about its focus on economic growth and preserving the country’s global positioning, it needs to truly embed air connectivity and sustainable airport development in its economic strategy. This has become a common feature of some of the world’s most dynamic and forward-looking economies. Last but not least, [the] announcement can be no
Our goal remains to attract more and more passengers “On behalf of all Budapest Airport staff I am proud to receive the [Pro Tursimo award], since each and every airport employee has contributed to our magnificent results in traffic increase – particularly our commercial airline development and marketing team. We continue our efforts to live up to the expectations of our passengers and be the best airport in Central-Eastern Europe in terms of both service quality and development. Our goal remains to attract more and more passengers from all over the world.”
CEO, LIVERPOOL JOHN LENNON AIRPORT
ANDREW CORNISH
OLIVIER JANKOVEC
TRAVEL TALK
substitute for much needed legal certainty over the future of the UK – European Union (EU) aviation relationship. There must be quick reassurances that as part of its Brexit strategy, the UK government will seek to ensure that the UK and EU aviation market will remain closely integrated - with EU and UK airlines continuing to enjoy free market access.”
Regional airports [...] can benefit
”Liverpool John Lennon Airport welcomes this news [of the government to approve Heathrow Airport’s] expansion plans for a third runway and will continue to support Heathrow’s proposals ahead of a final decision due next year, so that regional airports such as Liverpool can benefit by the future opening up of access to the UK’s hub airport for improved worldwide connectivity.”
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
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BELARUS TO HOST DAYS OF MOLDOVAN CULTURE
TRAVEL CHANNELS
IATA UNVEILS PASSENGER EXPERIENCE TRANSFORMATION PLAN
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nternational Air Transport Association (IATA) has presented a transformative vision to support the air travel industry to serve the forecasted doubling in demand, with the volume of trips set to grow from 3.8 billion trips this year to 7.2 billion by 2035. IATA’s Simplifying the Business (StB) programme will review the passenger experience from an end-to-end perspective across all processes. To this end, a number of initiatives will be implemented, including Smart Security, a joint project with Airports Council International to make security procedures more efficient and less invasive as well as One Identity which aims to eliminate repetitive identity checks. Additionally, New Distribution Capability will enable agents to access products only available on airline websites, while ONE Order will combine reference numbers and documentation.
UNICEF AND EASYJET MARK WORLD POLIO DAY
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ollowing an official visit to Moldova, Andrei Kobyakov, prime minister, Belarus, has announced plans to hold Days of Moldovan Culture in Belarus in 2017. A number of initiatives have taken place in an effort to foster ties between the countries, such as the recent inauguration of a Belarusian culture centre in Chisinau. Additionally, Kobyakov hinted at the installation of a monument honouring Belarus’ first book printer, Francysk Skaryna, also in the Moldovan capital.
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assengers on board easyJet’s flight from London to Portugal sampled futuristic inflight entertainment with an important message as they were immersed in a 3D virtual reality experience. The film was created by United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and was launched exclusively to the airline’s customers to mark World Polio Day at the end of October. Passengers watched the 360-degree film of the story of Job, the last child in Kenya to have been infected by the polio virus. The two organisations’ partnership has so far helped vaccinate more than 13 million children against polio and 5.3 million mothers and babies against other deadly diseases.
I NATURE SHOWCASED AT ATHENS AIRPORT
n a bid to raise public awareness of the issue of environmental degradation, Athens International Airport has installed an exhibition entitled EverythingHappensAsItShould.com. Set to run until January 31, 2017, a digital showcase by artist Angelo Plessas, is presented in the art and environment exhibition area of the hub. The messages that appear throughout the project are actual posts by users of social media which include the word nature. This way, the artist creates a link between the physical and digital world. At the same time, the artwork invites the travelling public to consider the most ecological way of exchanging information, even when it comes to discussions on the environment.
Artwork by Angelo Plessas
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KATIE BENSON has been named Jumeirah Group’s regional vice president for Europe. Benson will undertake her new role alongside her current responsibilities as general manager of Jumeirah Carlton Tower in London. Prior to joining the group in 2015, Benson performed a number of positions within Langham Hospitality Group, including CEO and executive director of Langham Hospitality Investments. Furthermore, she has also held senior executive roles for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. Benson begun her career in the hospitality industry more than 30 years ago and has experience in general management and operations, human resources, asset management and development.
ANDREA GEBBEKEN
CHRISTINA FOERSTER has been appointed chief commercial officer at Brussels Airlines. She began her career in 1999 as a consultant at The Boston Consulting Group before moving to Lufthansa where she has since worked in a number of management roles. As vice president of network and fleet development, Foerster focussed on the strategic progression of the group and the global network of passenger airlines. She joins the management board from Lufthansa where she most recently served as senior vice president, network, group and alliance development and, since January, owner of network and partner management for Lufthansa, Swiss International Air Lines and Austrian Airlines.
JASON MONTAGUE
KATIE BENSON
CHRISTINA FOERSTER
WHO’S MOVED
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ANDREA GEBBEKEN has begun her new role as the third managing director at Munich Airport. With extensive experience in aviation and logistics, including the post of CEO at Tirana Airport, she joins the airfield from DB Station&Service, where she served as the head of north German operations. In her new position, Gebbeken will be accountable for end customer business, corporate security as well as quality and project management. Furthermore, she will also oversee promotion, event spaces, parking facilities in addition to some 170 retail and 50 food and beverage outlets. She will be working alongside Michael Kerkloh and Thomas Weyer, the other managing directors.
JASON MONTAGUE has begun his duties as CEO of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, an expansion of his previous role of president. His new responsibilities will include sales, marketing, passenger services and revenue management. Montague will continue to focus on the development of the cruise line’s route map as well as the onboard product to ensure it delivers its brand promise and offers outstanding holidays for passengers. He will also strengthen relationships with travel partners and optimise results to further grow the company.
Montague continues as CEO
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NEWS & EVENTS EVENTS EXPOLINGUA BERLIN Berlin, Germany November 18 – 19 www.expolingua.com A dedicated event for anyone with an interest in learning and teaching languages, international travel and global cultures.
FITUR in UNWTO Plenary Session Spotlight
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na Larrañaga, director, International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR), took part in the 38th meeting of the plenary session of affiliated members of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Held in Yerevan, the event was organised alongside the 43rd meeting of the governing board of UNWTO affiliated members where the key principles of the 2017 action plan were considered, including the future of tourism, the cultural and city segments as well as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development 2017, which will be launched at FITUR in January 2017, in Madrid.
ITB to Focus on Astro-tourism
BUY TOURISM ONLINE Florence, Italy November 30 – December 01 www.buytourismonline.com Tourism and online technologies will be in the spotlight at the ninth edition of the event.
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he increasingly popular astro-tourism segment will be a key topic at ITB Berlin 2017. Under the heading of Gazing into the night skies sparkling diamonds - A journey through the vast universe, experts will provide information on the challenges facing the international travel industry in its aim to make astro-tourism viable in a responsible and sustainable way. Other hot issues at the event, which will run between March 08 – 10, 2017, will include adventure travel and responsible tourism. Additionally, panel discussions, workshops and networking events will examine and debate controversial topics such as wildlife stewardship.
INTERNATIONAL TOURISM TRADE FAIR (FITUR) Madrid, Spain January 18 – 22, 2017 www.ifema.es Spain’s must-attend event showcasing top and up-andcoming destinations from all around the world.
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Future Meeting Room Launched at IMEX America
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erman Convention Bureau (GCB) has unveiled Future Meeting Room at this year’s IMEX America, an online toolbox to map out and implement meetings with improved engagement, innovations and creativity at its core. The platform works in conjunction with Future Meeting Space Scenerios, which considers six types of function including connecting virtual and face-to-face participants. The toolbox uses these to guide delegates and planners through ideas on topics such as space, geography, technology and organisation. The multi-year Future Meeting Space programme aims to provide hands on tools to make meetings more futuristic.
ADRIA HOTEL FORUM Zagreb, Croatia February 08 – 09, 2017 www.adria-forum.eu A meeting place for leading hotel chains, owners and managers as well as other professionals working in the sector.
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Brussels to Welcome 2018 ACI World and Europe
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n 2018, Brussels Airport will be the host of the annual congress and general meeting of Airports Council International (ACI) World and ACI Europe. The Belgian capital will welcome the whole international airport community for a three-day congress, with the event set to give a boost to both tourism and congress life in the city. Each year, the general meeting brings together around 1,000 representatives of the sector from more than 75 countries. Some 40 speakers will share their views on current hot topics.
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