7 OCTOBER 2017 ISSUE 413
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7 OCTOBER 2017 ISSUE 413
05 UNION PROPERTIES UNVEILED NEW SUBSIDIARIES
07 ACCOMMODATION
RUI AND NAKHEEL TO WELCOME BEACH RESORT
08 QATAR AIRWAYS ADDED FOUR EXTRA OMAN FLIGHTS
04 Destinations 06 Airports
16 Rendezvous
MARKET UPDATE
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TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS
Etihad Airways Now Offering Instalments
MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel JOURNALISTS Panayiotis Karanicholas Anna Spyrou CONTRIBUTOR Dominique Christou 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.traveltradeweekly.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel WORLDWIDE REPRESENTATIVES Representative for North, South & Central America, and the Caribbean: Neil Strickland GlobeTM Tel: +19542969515, neil@globetm.com
Travellers from the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Egypt can now pay for their Etihad Airways flights in monthly instalments when booking flights directly through Etihad.com.
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he airline is the first in the region to offer fully automated online instalments plans after partnering with PayFort. The initiative is designed to allow families and those on a budget to book flights to their dream destination with convenient payment plans tailored to their requirements. “When we were designing this product we were really looking at how we can assist those low to medium income travellers and families, but of course, spreading the payment over a period of months […],” commented Justin Warby, vice president, digital strategy, Etihad Airways.
Representative for Indian subcontinent: Faredoon Kuka RMA Media Tel: +912229253735, kuka@rmamedia.com
Representative for UK & Ireland and Scandinavia: David Simpson Simpson Media Tel: +447900885456, david@simpson-media.com
International Traffic Continues To Soar
MENA EXCHANGE RATES
as of 5.10.2017
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COUNTRY
CURRENCY USD1=
Bahrain (BHD)
Dinar
0.37
Jordan (JOD)
Dinar
0.71
Oman (OMR)
Rial
0.39
Qatar (QAR)
Rial
3.64
Saudi Arabia (SAR)
Riyal
3.75
UAE (AED)
Dirham
3.67
Algeria (DZD)
Dinar
113.30
Egypt (EGP)
Pound
17.68
Iran (IRR)
Rial
33,947.76
Iraq (IQD)
Dinar
1,169.96
Kuwait (KWD)
Dinar
0.30
Lebanon (LBP)
Pound
1,510.76
Libya (LYD)
Dinar
1.38
Morocco (MAD)
Dirham
9.45
Syria (SYP)
Pound
516.35
Tunisia (TND)
Dinar
2.48
Yemen (YER)
Rial
250.25
In July, global passenger traffic reached record levels with a growth of 6.8 percent year-on-year, as revealed by Airports Council International. Furthermore, air freight volumes also rose, up 8.9 percent for the month under review.
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ll regions posted robust gains, particularly Europe, Asia Pacific and Africa with overall increases of 9.9 percent, 9.4 percent and 7.5 percent, respectively. Europe’s success was largely contributed by Turkey’s continued recovery in July with total passenger traffic growing 17.6 percent year-on-year at Istanbul Atatürk Airport. As with passenger numbers, Istanbul Atatürk Airport stood out in freight volumes, growing 32.2 percent year-on- year while Heathrow Airport contributed a significant part of the freight market’s increase in volume, growing 15.1 percent during the month under review.
7 OCTOBER 2017
WEEKLY NEWS AGENTS
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GBTA to Educate on MICE
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rganised in partnership with VDR, the event is said to be one of Europe’s leading business travel conferences, welcoming every year more than 1,000 business travel professionals from around the world. This year’s theme, Convergence, was developed to address the industry-wide disruption caused by the merging of various functions, roles and policies, including the changing role of the travel manager to the emergence of new and transformation of existing players in the market.
GBTA Conference 2017 Frankfurt
Aiming to address the needs for specialised education and expertise in the area of MICE, Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) and Meeting Professionals International (MPI) have partnered to deliver four engaging educational sessions during GBTA Conference 2017 Frankfurt.
Thomas Cook, Neckermann and Brussels Airlines Join Forces
OACIS Partners with Amadeus
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iming to facilitate the check-in process at airports, Off Airport Check-In Solutions (OACIS) has recently adopted Amadeus’ Airport Common Use Service (ACUS) cloud technology. With the power of the new cloud system, OACIS can quickly provide travellers with an offairport, fully mobile check-in service that can be set up at any location including cruise terminals, hotels, train stations, or event centres. Virgin Australia is the first airline to adopt ACUS and has already piloted it in Sydney for cruise ships and ocean liners while OACIS is planning to expand the service to New Zealand and other markets in the next 12 to 18 months.
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n a bid to redefine travel experience for Belgian holidaymakers, Thomas Cook, Nickermann and Brussels Airlines have recently joined forces, enabling customers to choose from more than 6,500 holiday flights to 51 sunny destinations. Effective from October 28, the partnership will significantly increase flight frequencies to existing destinations, offering more than one million seats. While also highlighting the positive outcomes of the partnership, Jan Dekeyser, managing director, Belgium, Thomas Cook, explained, “[...] Our customers can count on the many airport colleagues and they can take much more baggage. We hereby respond to a trend that is emerging in the entire tourist industry: the customer wants to choose how he travels and demands excellent service [...]”.
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WEEKLY NEWS DESTINATIONS
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SCTDA Introduces Desert Permits
Sharjah
Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) has begun to issue permits for vehicles of tour operators wishing to enter desert and natural habitat areas.
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mplemented to boost destination experiences in the emirate, the project will enable guests to explore less visited areas and participate in adventure activities. H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, chairman, SCTDA, explained that both preserving the environment and reducing the impact of tourism on local residents are priorities. In addition to paving the way for a more organised movement of vehicles, the initiative is expected to improve safety and therefore reduce accidents and risks for visitors.
Abu Dhabi Promotes Cruise Sector
Bahrain to Boost Wedding Tourism
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Seatrade Europe
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iming to promote its developing cruise tourism sector while also helping to build awareness about the emirate’s desirability as a regional port-of-call for cruise ships, a delegation from Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority participated in this year’s Seatrade Europe. Held in Hamburg on September 11 — 13, the event offered an abundance of networking opportunities, between key international industry manufacturers, suppliers and decision makers from all areas of the cruise market. The participation of the delegation in the Cruise Arabia pavilion attracted wide attention during the exhibition through direct contact with cruise lines, companies, and operators of cruise tours and programmes. The trade mission to Germany is one of a number of international promotions planned for the coming months, also including roadshows in Russia and India.
n line with its 2016-2018 strategy, aimed at promoting Bahrain as a wedding destination, Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority (BTEA) organised a familiarisation trip for 10 Indian wedding planning agencies. The selection was based on the quality of their work as well as their experience in planning weddings abroad. During their stay, the agents had the chance to visit some of the country’s top tourist attractions such as Bahrain International Circuit, Ahmed Al-Fateh Islamic Center, and Bahrain National Museum. Commenting on the occasion, Ali Hassan Follad, advisor, BTEA, highlighted, “We are delighted to host the largest wedding planning agencies to promote the wide range of wedding services available in Bahrain, along with the international luxury hotel chains and boutique offerings.”
7 OCTOBER 2017
UNWTO and WTCF Monitor City Tourism Performance
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orld Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has recently partnered with World Tourism Cities Federation (WTCF) in order to develop an instrument that can measure the performance of tourism in metropolitan areas. Under the title UNWTO-WTCF City Tourism Performance Research the project will include a set of criteria and a platform for information exchange to showcase good practices on tourism performance in several urban destinations. A total of 16 cities participated in the survey, allowing organisations to define a set of criteria that can constitute the best possible assessment of city tourism performance at a reasonable cost. The partnership between UNWTO and WTCF will assist policy makers and all stakeholders in their efforts to take strategic action for better urban tourism governance and sustainable management.
7 OCTOBER 2017
WEEKLY NEWS
Union Properties Unveiled New Subsidiaries Union Properties is launching two new fully-owned subsidiary companies with projects in Dubai Motorcity.
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nion Malls will provide retail and leisure options in various developments. The Central, its inaugural mall, will consist of a 10ha complex offering retail, dining, and a wide range of leisure options. Meanwhile, Al Etihad Hotel Management will provide hospitality services and facilities management for approximately 3,000 serviced apartments and 3,500 hotel rooms in the area before expanding throughout Dubai. Nasser Butti Omair bin Yousef, chairman, Union Properties, revealed, “We have identified the creation of divisions in the mall and hotel sectors as being key drivers for the next stage of Union Properties’ success that will serve to diversify our revenues while enhancing our communities.”
Dubai Motorcity rendering
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WEEKLY NEWS AIRPORTS
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Sharjah Hub Showcased Pharma Facility
Pharma and Healthcare Handling Facility rendering
Sharjah International Airport recently participated in the 5th Cool Chain Association Pharma and Bioscience Conference and Exhibition in Budapest, to exchange experiences and learn about the best practices in pharmaceutical shipping services.
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uring the exhibition, the gateway presented its pioneering model in pharmaceutical cargo handling and storage, Pharma and Healthcare Handling facility, which is said to be the first International Air Transport Association Center of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics-certified service in the Middle East and Africa. H.E. Ali Salim Al Midfa, chairman, Sharjah Airport Authority, said, “The airport offers handling and storage services to time and temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical products. We have increased our capacity to meet the changing requirements of customers and companies.”
Cargo Soared at Bahrain International Airport
Increase in Numbers at Muscat International Airport
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uscat International Airport witnessed a strong August in terms of passenger numbers, with a positive increase of 16 percent, showing a surge of 1.4 million passengers year-on-year. Domestic passenger numbers increased by 8.4 percent, with international ones soaring 16.9 percent. With regards to aircraft movements, domestic increase by 20.6 percent and international by 12.1 percent. Muscat International Airport serves as Oman Airs’ hub and is a gateway for flights to several regional destinations in addition to some intercontinental services to Asia, Africa and Europe.
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ahrain International Airport saw a 15.1 percent year-on-year surge in cargo traffic during the period January – July. All in all, the hub handled 168,636 tonnes of freight during the first seven months of the year, bolstered by a particularly strong July, during which Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) processed a record 22,597 tonnes of cargo and mail. Ayman Zainal, chief commercial officer, BAC, said, “The fact that we have managed to handle this significant growth in volume in such a short time, shows that our airport has the ability to adapt to increasingly larger cargo and logistics operations, making BAC well prepared for anticipated future growth.”
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7 OCTOBER 2017
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WEEKLY NEWS ACCOMMODATION
RUI and Nakheel to Welcome Beach Resort
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eveloper Nakheel is assessing 10 proposals for the construction of its new, 800-room RIU beachfront resort at Deira Islands, with the lowest bid at AED363 million (USD98 million). The all-inclusive beachfront resort is set for delivery in 2020, and will be the first of the Spanish brand’s property in the Middle East. It will feature seven food and beverage outlets, three swimming pools, fitness complex, waterpark and more. The joint venture is one of 17 projects in Nakheel’s hospitality expansion programme, under which some 6,000 new rooms and hotel apartments will be delivered across Dubai by 2021.
Mondrian Doha to Expand Qatar’s Dining Offering
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pearheaded by its executive chef, Simon John Winchester, Mondrian Doha is planning to enhance Qatar’s food and beverage offering with the introduction of eight culinary concepts in its premises. These include international brands such as CUT and Morimoto as well as Walima, Hudson Tavern, Black Orchid, and Rise. In addition, the much loved Magnolia Bakery will also find a home at the resort. Promising to redefine the country’s dining scene, Winchester is bringing his international culinary expertise and charm, as well as the latest culinary trends, to ensure the address’ food offerings go above and beyond the realms of conventionality.
Mondrian Doha
7 OCTOBER 2017
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WEEKLY NEWS AIR
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Sohar
Aiming to respond to the increasing demand from both local residents and tourists for better connectivity between Doha and Oman, Qatar Airways introduced four additional weekly services to Sohar, effective from October 01.
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perated by Airbus A320 aircraft, the additional itinerary is taking the number of weekly flights between the two countries from 52 to 56. Passengers transiting through Hamad International Airport can take advantage of the many activities and services available, from free Wi-Fi, an airside swimming pool, and play areas for children, to the multiple quiet areas in which passengers can relax, as well as an array of duty free shopping and dining options.
Russia Further Served by flydubai
Iraqi Airways Takes on Russia
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his winter season will see flydubai double its flights to Russia to meet passenger demand. From the end of October, the Dubai-based airline will add Makhachkala, Voronezh and Ufa to its existing routes, totalling 40 weekly flights to 10 areas in the region. This year, the UAE has seen a growing demand from Russia after changes to visa requirements enabled passengers to get a free 30-day visa on arrival to the country. Travel from Russia to Dubai grew 97 percent in the first six months of the year, according to Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing.
Moscow
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ccording to Arab Air Carriers' Organisation on September 17, Iraqi Airways commenced weekly flights to Moscow Vnukovo Airport from Basra and Baghdad. The service will further serve passengers wishing to connect from Iraq to the Russian capital, and are expected to boost tourism and business between the countries. The schedule from Baghdad International Airport is operated on Wednesdays with a Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Said to be one of the oldest carriers in the Middle East, Iraqi Airways first began operations in 1945. It now serves a number of domestic routes as well as destinations in the Middle East, Europe and Asia.
7 OCTOBER 2017
WEEKLY NEWS AIR Gulf Air Strengthens Links to Turkey
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iming to provide greater flexibility and choice to customers travelling to and from Turkey, Gulf Air has unveiled plans to increase the frequency of its Bahrain – Istanbul route with daily services effective from November. Launched in 1986, the route has been particularly popular amongst leisure and business travellers. Commenting on the growth, Waleed Abdul Hameed Al Alawi, deputy CEO, Gulf Air, highlighted, “[...]. Offering our valued passengers a daily service to and from Istanbul meets their travel needs, further reinforcing the strong historic ties between Bahrain and Turkey and our airline’s key role in encouraging two-way travel, trade, tourism and investment opportunities.”
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Saudia Launches Onboard Internet
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audi Arabia’s national airline, Saudia, is now offering Internet onboard its aircraft, as a result of a collaboration with SITAOnAir. Saudia first and business class passengers can access the Internet by simply entering their e-ticket numbers instead of using the special e-mail and messaging code. SITAOnAir has deployed its enhanced Internet ONAIR into the CRM system of Saudia to offer travellers connectivity in the air.
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Pittsburgh to Welcome Qatar Airways Cargo Service
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atar Airways Cargo is to add Pittsburgh to its route map as of October 11, making it the first international airline to commence freighter service to the US region. Commenting on this milestone announcement, Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, said, “Our business strategy is based on consultation and building productive relationships with local government and business leaders, to provide global air freight connectivity that benefits the city, region and state. In doing so, we support the regional economy, create jobs, help grow local businesses and increase export capacity. We look forward to connecting Pennsylvania to the rest of our global network.”
7 OCTOBER 2017
INTERNATIONAL: AFRICA RwandAir to Host Aviation Gathering
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WTM Africa 2018 to Welcome Women in Travel
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7 OCTOBER 2017
Alonso
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wandAir will host the 49th Annual General Assembly and Summit of the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) scheduled to take place at the Kigali Convention Centre in Rwanda on November 12 – 14. Addressing the media during a press conference, Elijah Chingosho, secretary general, AFRAA, highlighted that issues on the development of air transport in Africa and development opportunities for African airlines will be discussed. Air transport in Africa is considered to be an economic bridge, linking people, goods and capital to markets and industries and integrating the continent. This year’s gathering is expected to attract over 500 high profile delegates from the aviation industry across the globe.
orld Travel Market (WTM) Africa has recently announced the addition of the Women in Travel summit to its 2018 programme. Established officially as a social enterprise, Women in Travel aims to leverage the global travel and tourism industry to provide women with the opportunity to fulfil their economic and individual potential through education, engagement and entrepreneurship. “Our vision is to provide communities in key regions – the UK, Middle East, Africa and Latin America – with a sustainable livelihood by enabling women to become economically independent through entrepreneurship and a thriving career in the travel and tourism industry and in so doing, to become a recognised catalyst for women empowerment in the international travel and tourism sector,” highlighted Alessandra Alonso, founder, Women in Travel.
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INTERNATIONAL: AMERICAS MAC Recognised for Sustainability Efforts
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Record August for American Airlines
Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport
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etropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) has been recognised by Airports Council International – North America for completing the second step of carbon accreditation, a process to reduce carbon emissions and advance sustainability efforts at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP). Commenting on the achievement, Brian Ryks, CEO, MAC, said, “This certification by the leading industry programme for reducing carbon emissions demonstrates our commitment to operate MSP Airport in a sustainable manner.” As part of the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme, airports commit to reducing their emissions by making investments in the likes of heating and lighting efficiency technology, electric, hybrid or gas-powered vehicles and public transport incentives.
United Saw Positive August Despite Hurricane Harvey
San Francisco Hub to Improve Taxiway S
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San Francisco International Airport
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n a bid to reduce departure delays during parallel runway operation, while also meeting new federal taxiway design criteria, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has recently unveiled plans to improve Taxiway S. The hub announced that the operations will take place in October 11 – 19 and that all four runways will remain open throughout the project with only Runway 28L to be affected. For safety purposes, during this period, the facility will only be used for landing, to ensure aircraft do not take off over the construction area. The improvement plan has been developed by SFO in collaboration with airlines and the Federal Aviation Administration and is a part of a wider project aiming to enhance passengers’ experience at the hub.
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n August, American Airlines Group reported that its total revenue kilometres rose 3.7 percent year-on-year, while available seat kilometres jumped 3.2 percent. Total passenger load factor reached 83.3 percent, an increase of 0.4 percentage points over August 2016. The company, which comprises American Airlines and American Eagle, estimates that its third quarter total revenue per available seat kilometre to be approximately flat to up to one percent year-on-year, due to the impact of Hurricane Irma. The adverse weather caused closures at 40 airports in Florida and the Caribbean, resulting in more than 5,000 flight cancellations.
n August, United Airlines reported a 2.3 percent year-on-year jump in consolidated traffic, as well as a 2.4 increase in consolidated capacity. In terms of revenue passenger kilometres, the airline achieved a four percent surge on domestic routes and a 0.2 percent increase on international services. Compared to the same month in 2016, the carrier’s consolidated load factor fell 0.2 percentage points to 85.3 percent. Scott Kirby, president, United Airlines, explained that the month was especially challenging due to adverse weather conditions, including Hurricane Harvey. He added, “Thanks to the resilience and spirit of our dedicated employees, our operation in Houston has returned back to 100 percent today, ahead of schedule.”
7 OCTOBER 2017
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INTERNATIONAL: AMERICAS
Oregon to Upgrade Tourism Product
Arizona Hosted Media Reception in New York City
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7 OCTOBER 2017
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n a bid to expand, promote and upgrade its tourism product, Oregon Tourism Commission, (Travel Oregon) awarded USD400,000 in matching grant funding to organisations around the state. Expected to be completed by October 2018, the 29 grant projects awarded this year include restoration of Columbia River Gorge and East Applegate Ridge Trail. Commenting on the occasion, Todd Davidson, CEO, Travel Oregon, highlighted, “The grants we awarded this year help us to fulfil Travel Oregon’s mission to inspire travel that drives sustainable economic development. By supporting these innovative projects, we are better able to share the stories of Oregon’s people and places, deliver world-class experiences, strengthen the industry and ensure the preservation of Oregon’s way of life and its natural places.”
iming to promote Arizona to both leisure and corporate travellers, Arizona Office of Tourism and Visit Tucson have recently hosted a media reception in New York City with seven top travel editors affiliated with Travel Classics participating. Bringing together top professionals for one-on-one meetings, panel discussions, networking as well as pre and post trips, the event is claimed to be one of the world's most exclusive conferences for travel writers and editors. This year’s Travel Classics will take place in Tucson’s Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa on November 16 –19.
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INTERNATIONAL: ASIA PASIFIC Fiji Airways and Solomon Airlines Enhance Connections
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Japan Airlines Expands Boeing Fleet
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iji Airways and Solomon Airlines have signed a codeshare agreement for flights between Nadi and Honiara, which came into effect on September 30. Guests of Solomon Airlines can expect convenient travel and transfer onto Fiji Airways’ network through its Nadi hub to North America, Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand. Fiji Airways currently operates between Nadi and Honiara on Saturdays, while Solomon Airlines operates between Honiara and Nadi on Mondays and Tuesdays. Brett Gebers, CEO, Solomon Airlines, said that the new codeshare was great news for both airlines, extremely timely, and presented a major boost for the Melanesian region’s tourism and business aspirations.
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oeing and Japan Airlines have announced an order of four 787-8 Dreamliners, with a value of more than USD900, expanding the Japanese airlines’ Dreamliner fleet to 49 airplanes. Commenting on the fleet's expansion, Yoshiharu Ueki, president, Japan Airlines, said, "This order for additional 787 Dreamliners, is a key part of our strategy as we look to bolster our existing route network and strengthen our position ahead of the 2020 Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo.”
Vietjet to Promote Travel and Aviation
Solid Growth at HKIA in August
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Ho Chi Minh City
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n August, Hong Kong International Airport recorded a 5.7 percent surge in passenger volume, to 6.51 million, driven by a seven percent year-on-year jump in transfers and transits, as well as a six percent increase in Hong Kong resident travel. During the month, flight movements rose to 35,595, a growth of 2.3 percent over August 2016, while cargo traffic climbed 10.1 percent to 412,000 tonnes. The positive results contribute to the year-todate success, with a 2.2 increase in passenger traffic in the first eight months of the year, accompanied by a 1.3 percent boost in flight movements. Demonstrating the robust growth in exports, cargo volume at the hub during the period under review soared 11.1 percent.
ietjet and Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism signed a cooperation agreement for the period 20172019 during the 13th International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City (ITE HCMC) which was held on September 07 — 09 at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center. The agreement is expected to create new opportunities for both parties while attracting tourists from key and potential overseas markets to Ho Chi Minh City as well as Vietnam in general. During the event, the airline was honoured with the Best Low Cost Carrier award by the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism. Titled The Gateway to Asia this year’s ITE HCMC was organised to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
7 OCTOBER 2017
INTERNATIONAL: ASIA PASIFIC
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Bangkok to Welcome First Hyatt Place
Mandarin Oriental to Add Authentic Beijing Hotel
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et to open in 2018, Mandarin Oriental Qianmen will offer an opportunity to experience luxury living in traditional and authentic Beijing surroundings. To be managed by Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, the property will provide spacious and luxurious landscaped courtyard suites, in addition to function rooms and leisure facilities. Guests will also be able to enjoy a variety of dining venues within the Hutong courtyards, including an all-day dining concept with a roof terrace, a Chinese restaurant, a lobby lounge, a traditional tea lounge and the brand’s signature cake shop. “Mandarin Oriental Qianmen, Beijing will offer guests a truly unique and authentic experience, […],” said James Riley, group CEO, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group.
Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit
yatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit is set to open in the last quarter of this year and will be the first Hyatt Place in Bangkok and the second Hyatt Place hotel in Thailand. The new address will offer business and leisure travellers an open, intuitive design, casual atmosphere, and practical amenities. “We are excited to bring the Hyatt Place brand to this dynamic city and hope to create convenient and comfortable experiences for our domestic and international guests,” commented Saraid Carey, general manager, Hyatt Place Bangkok Sukhumvit. The 222-key property will boast an outdoor swimming pool, food and beverage options, a rooftop bar and meeting rooms, among others amenities on offer.
The Ritz-Carlton Expands in Malaysia
Myanmar to Welcome Pan Pacific
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Myanmar
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The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi
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ovember will see Pan Pacific Hotels Group’s debut of its brand in Myanmar with the opening of the 25-storey, fivestar, Pan Pacific Yangon. In addition to 336 guest rooms and suites, guest will be able to enjoy a swimming pool, fitness centre, spa facilities, and numerous dining outlets. Moreover, a spacious ballroom and a selection of meeting rooms will provide ideal venues for meetings and events. “We are excited about the opening of Pan Pacific Yangon, the first international luxury five-star hotel in the city. It will strongly appeal to business and leisure travellers alike as a modern and refreshing retreat, and set a benchmark for luxury and service excellence in the local hospitality scene,” said Lothar Nessmann, CEO, Pan Pacific Hotels Group.
he Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has recently unveiled a new oceanfront resort in Langkawi, following the recent opening of RitzCarlton, Kuala Lumpur. Designed by Philippe Villeroux, the new address has been carefully created to fully immerse travellers in the island’s natural ecosystem and local culture, and features 70 spacious guest rooms, 15 suites and 29 villas alongside four distinct dining venues overlooking the glistening Andaman Sea. Meanwhile, the resort has curated locally-inspired activities for children as part of its Ritz Kids programme, while families can get creative by painting the wings of a mystical Malay kite while also enjoying a contemporary performance of an ancient tarian payang on the beach and guided jungle walks in the surrounding rainforest.
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RENDEZVOUS
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Q & A with
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Where do your customers arrive from?
DYAN ANDRADO MANAGER, MANNAI HOLIDAYS
QATAR’S TOURISM INDUSTRY IS UNDERGOING A PERIOD OF RAPID TRANSFORMATION. DYAN ANDRADO, MANAGER, MANNAI HOLIDAYS, DESCRIBES WHAT MAKES THE COUNTRY UNIQUE AND REVEALS SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS THAT TRAVELLERS HAVE TO LOOK FORWARD TO.
DYAN ANDRADO: We do get a lot of visitors from all over the world specially because of having probably the best airline in the world using Doha as its hub. This has resulted in millions of people transiting in Qatar with a few curious travellers stopping to find out how this small country has achieved all it has. The government has also actively [targeted] visitors by easing up on visa requirements and investing heavily in making Qatar the sports centre of the Middle East. Before the blockade, the majority of our visitors arrived purely for leisure were from the neighbouring countries of Saudi Arabia and the UAE. During summer, for obvious reasons, inbound travel reduces to mainly business and a bit of transit traffic. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What are you doing to attract non-GCC travellers to Qatar? DYAN ANDRADO: As mentioned above, an active interest in sports has really exploded Qatar into the world scene. In addition to which, the government is planning some truly exceptional attractions which will make Qatar the place to visit in a few years time. At the moment we enjoy some of the best hotels and restaurants with the highest standards, quite substantial malls, authentic Souqs – or marketplaces – which thrive on the weekends, museums with a rich history of stories to tell, probably the best desert safari and camping in the Middle East, dhow rides coupled with some of the most truly magnificent architecture you could expect to see at one destination. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What more can be done to attract non-GCC visitors? DYAN ANDRADO: Sports is a great lev-
eller and can help bridge many divides and bring people and cultures closer together. Already we are beginning to see a lot of interest in Qatar from the international market. A few cruise ships make landfall here and more are expected to join soon. As mentioned, some truly extraordinary projects have been planned and the metro system, which is currently being built, is going to make the country much more accessible to visitors as well as to locals and expatriates that call Qatar home. Among the planned projects is an extraordinary zoo that surely will be one of a kind. Projects such as these ensure that Qatar is in for some extremely interesting times ahead. And all of these do not include the showpiece that will be the FIFA World Cup that will be held here in 2022. These projects show that the government is not only interested in hosting the best world cup, but plans to make Qatar a truly great destination to visit even after. TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What does the future hold for Qatar’s tourism industry? DYAN ANDRADO: In a nutshell, Qatar is truly heading towards becoming a showpiece and a jewel in the Middle East. Unfortunate and unnecessary events have been witnessed in the recent past, perhaps seeking to dull the vision of Qatar, however it has backfired spectacularly with the people coming together more than ever, more determined and with an independent spirit and a will that is stronger. We cannot wait to see what the future holds for Qatar and we are truly excited to be a part of this movement. We would like to extend an invitation to everyone around the world to come and witness what Qatar is becoming. Ultimately, it is not the investments that makes Qatar great, it is its people with their vision, ambition and drive, which is taking Qatar to new heights.
TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How was business in the first half of the year? DYAN ANDRADO: While business has been steady throughout this year and we expected to see a substantial growth compared to 2016, we definitely have been affected by the blockade to some extent. Thankfully, we have seen a rise in holiday travel once again during the past few weeks, however that has still not brought us on par with what we had experienced on 2016.
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
Majid Al Futtaim Revealed Drivers of Happy Destinations
Egypt Revamps Cave Museum
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ajid Al Futtaim and Neurons Inc conducted a study to identify the most powerful drivers behind emotional attachment to urban developments and communities. By applying EEG and eye tracking technology, the UAE-based research revealed that greenery, artistic features and bright colours were the most crucial drivers of emotional engagement. Meanwhile, the strongest negative responses were recorded in images that displayed a visible lack of human interaction and natural landscapes. Hawazen Esber, CEO, communities, Majid Al Futtaim, revealed, “In a testament to the region’s progressive take on the transformation of the real estate sector; our unique neuroscience research study enables a deeper understanding of what subconsciously drives emotional value and a sense of belonging for our customers and the wider community.”
Rommel’s Cave
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ollowing a seven-year renovation plan, Rommel’s Cave Museum in Mersa Matruh has recently opened its doors to visitors. The cave which is now home to a small museum was used by Erwin Rommel, one of Germany’s most respected military leaders in World War II, also known as Desert Fox and features a collection of weapons, shells and military equipment used during the world as well as military attire and maps. Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities, in cooperation with Matrouh Governorate, started the renovation of the museum in 2010, with the aim to preserve Egypt’s unique cultural and historical heritage while also attracting more German visitors to the country.
Katara to Host LaLiga Festival
Hotel Park
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n September 28, LaLiga Festival, a 10-day football and entertainment celebration, was held as a result of a partnership between Katara Hospitality and LaLiga, the Spanish football
league. The first edition of the festival was held at Hotel Park in Doha, boasting a celebration of sports, food, entertainment and games. Planned to be held twice a year, the event aims to bring football and sport fans together to experience the LaLiga lifestyle. Passionate fans were able to experience games showcasing the best football techniques and strategy, while football freestylers competed for the title of Qatar Freestyle Championship.
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
Egypt Won Best Promotional Video
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IHG’s Citystars Keeps Supporting Communities
Egypt
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uring the 22nd General Assembly of World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) taking place in Chengdu on September 11 – 16, Egypt was crowned as the winner of the best tourism promotional video. UNWTO acknowledged the country’s strenuous efforts in revamping and enhancing its tourism sector, as it repositions itself back to its fomer glory as one of the leading holiday destinations. Meanwhile, the video was also recognised as Best Tourism Promotional video by Golden City Gate Awards during this year’s ITB Berlin for its promotional video This is Egypt which was also chosen as Best Tourism Promotional video.
IHG’s employees during IHG Foundation Week
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iming to raise awareness and funds for InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) Foundation, employees from InterContinental, Holiday Inn and Staybridge Suites Cairo – Citystars have recently joined forces, participating in the annual IHG Foundation Week. Activities included a blood donation campaign, a race around Citystars complex, healthy walks, a fund raising bazaar, an auction, Zumba classes, healthy meals in the staff cafeterias and cooking competitions. Launched in 2016, the foundation aims to reinforce IHG’s focus on positive community impact and environmental stewardship, focusing on helping communities to develop skills in hospitality, providing support for those impacted by disasters, facilitating local community investment and protecting the environment.
P Princess Cruises Supports Animal Welfare 18
rincess Cruises presented its first donation from the Princess Animal Welfare Sponsor (PAWS) to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) in the amount of USD25,000. PAWS was established by Princess Cruises to donate a portion of proceeds from the sales of Stanley the Bear, the cruise line's recently introduced plush bear, to local causes and charities that support nature, animals and wildlife. The AWCC plans to use the donation to fund an enhanced bear viewing and sitting areas on the property and a new family interactive space. In addition, the AWCC will be providing Princess Cruises bear related items, such as bear paw prints to be used in the cruise line's Camp Discovery youth centres.
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PHOTO ALBUM
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From right Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports welcomed Alexandre du Juniac, director general, International Air Transport Association for a short tour at Dubai International's Concourse D
In the context of Qatar Airways' 20th anniversary, thousands of people watched in admiration as an aircraft flew in formation over Doha with the world-famous Red Arrows aerobatic display team
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Generous guests donate 8,500 'Kilos of Kindness' in Mรถvenpick Hotels & Resorts' global charity drive
Send your photos to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel Because a picture is worth a thousand words...
In the context of World Tourism Day's Celebrations,Ahmed Al Anzoor,manager corporate communications, Gulf Air (from right), distinguished students of the Bahrain University
Craftsmen from Saudi King Abdulaziz Complex for Holy Kaaba Kiswah performed a live display of the decoration of the silk covering of the Holy Kaaba
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NEWS & EVENTS
Bahrain Attended Seatrade Europe
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iming to develop Bahrain’s cruise industry, Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) recently participated in Seatrade Europe. The exhibition, held in Hamburg on September 06 – 08, welcomed more than 5,000 visitors and 260 exhibitors from over 40 countries, including new companies in the cruise industry, showcasing their products. BTEA participated alongside the Cruise Arabia stand which highlighted Bahrain, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Commenting on the event, Yousif Al Khan, director, tourism marketing and promotions, BTEA, highlighted, “We aim to attract foreign investment through our participation in this exhibition, and increase the number of visitors coming to Bahrain and further develop the industry and overall national economy.”
WTM to Focus on Overtourism
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uring this year’s World Travel Market (WTM) which will be held on November 06 – 08, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and World Travel Market Ministers’ Summit will focus on overtourism, exploring how tourism growth and sustainability can coexist. The topic will also be the key theme of World Responsible Tourism Day on November 08, and will feature throughout the responsible tourism programme across all three days of the event. “Managing the growing number of visitors to many popular areas of our planet, including cities, is crucial for both hosts and visitors, both international and domestic. Growth is not the enemy. Growing numbers are not the enemy. Tourism growth can and should lead to economic prosperity [….],” pinpointed, Taleb Rifai, secretary general, UNWTO.
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EVENTS THE GLOBAL FRANCHISE MARKET (TGFM) Dubai, UAE October 29 – 30 globalfranchisemarket.com TGFM is the connection platform for franchising in the MENA region, offering the opportunity for franchisors, franchisees, suppliers and informationseeking individuals to learn more about the current industry and trends.
2ND ANNUAL CULTURAL TOURISM MIDDLE EAST Dubai, UAE October 31 – November 02 www.culturaltourismme.com The second edition of the event will gather high-level officials from tourism, cultural development and antiquities, heritage and arts, to showcase the latest developments and share ideas and strategies to protect, preserve and promote unique culture and heritage.
ACCESSABILITIES EXPO Dubai, UAE November 07 – 09 www.AccessAbilities-Expo.com The event provides an opportunity to government and private sectors to showcase future plans to support people with disabilities worldwide.
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