April 2011 Edition

APRIL 2011

BL8C8 CLDGLI

`e Kfg , IXeb`e^ ]fi ?`^_\jk

Kfli`jk 8ii`mXcj

;`m\ij JXm\ *' K_`j Jldd\i Xk Jk% K_fdXjË

9FCFE>F 98P 9<8:? I<JFIK D<KIFGFC@K8E KFLI@E>ËJ

ÊJG@I@K f] k_\ 8E;<JË N@CC I@;< K?< I8@CJ @E

<:L8;FI

ISSUE NO. 274

APRIL 2011 executive office

28 Knight Street Norwalk, CT 06851-4707 Voice: 203.286.6679 • Fax: 203.286.6681

INDUSTRY EVENTS

4

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

10

INDUSTRY NEWS

11

NORTH AMERICA

14

w e b s i t e

www.travelworldnews.com publisher

Charles Gatt, Jr.

EUROPE Valletta – City of the Knights

18

B2B Workshop, Presentation of Kvarner Region Feataured at Annual Workshop in NYC by Croatian National Tourist Office

23

charlie@travelworldnews.com editor

Carol A. Petro editor@travelworldnews.com

EUROPE / MALTA - page 18

FAM ANNOUNCEMENTS design production manager

Linda Rogers linda@travelworldnews.com

Shawn Hebert • I T

manager

Cindy Johnson • c i r c u l a t i o n

manager

For complete and current list please visit: www.travelworldnews.com/fams

CARIBBEAN Sandos Carocol Eco Resort & Spa Opens New Fully-Eco Rooms, Facilities

26

Lifestyle Holidays Dominican Republic Launches Kosher Vacation Program With King Solomon Vacations

28

Charles Lindo New Director of St. Eustatius Tourist Office

30

Divers Save 30% This Summer at St. Thomas’ Bolongo Bay Beach Resort

31

Cayman Islands DOT Appoints New U.S. General Manager – Thomas Ludington

32

EUROPE / CROATIA - page 23

cruise editor

Michael Iachetta southeast regional correspondent

Joan Gonzalez western regional correspondent

Connie Skoog contributing editors

Mona Birch • Ann Charles • Gail P. Dubov Judith Glynn • Barry Goldsmith • Peggy Hageman George Hairston • Al Haut • Marjorie Klein • Peter Lowy Nancy Marcantonio • Anita Mason D.O. Christian Rieger • Knox Robinson

CARIBBEAN / ST. THOMAS - page 31

Helen Kitti Smith • Robin Swados • Diane Terry Travel World News (ISSN 1044-4602) is published monthly by Travel Industry Network, Inc., 28 Knight Street, Norwalk, CT 06851-4707. The cost of a subscription in the USA is $25, in Canada $40. For subscribers outside USA or Canada, the rate is $80. Please send check or money order in U.S. dollars payable to Travel World News. For change of address, please enclose your mailing label and send to: Circulation Department, Travel World News, 28 Knight Street, Norwalk, CT 06851-4707. Periodicals postage paid at Norwalk, CT, and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Travel World News, 28 Knight Street, Norwalk, CT 06851-4707. Address advertising inquiries and/or editorial copy to: Travel World News, 28 Knight Street, Norwalk, CT 06851-4707. Copyright 2011.

All rights reserved. Printed in USA. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission.

All advertising in Travel World News is based on data submitted to the Publisher by the advertisers. The Publisher shall not be liable for the accuracy or inaccuracy of any information contained in Travel World News and shall not be liable, including but not limited to consequential or special damages, to any party for any products or services advertised or reported upon herein. The Publisher shall not be responsible for typographical errors. All information contained herein is subject to change without notice by the parties providing such products and services. The Publisher reserves the right to reject any advertising that has been submitted at his sole discretion. Upon providing a refund of any amount paid to the party whose submittal was rejected, the Publisher shall not have any liability to any party for such rejection.

LATIN AMERICA Costa Rica’s Lost Iguana Offers 20% Off Three Nights or More on ‘High Season Special’

35

Family Dive Adventures Offers Package of Fun in Costa Rica This Summer

36

Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit Named in Conde Nast Traveler’s 2011 Exclusive Gold List

38

Metropolitan Touring’s ‘Spirit of the Andes’ Will Ride the Rails in Ecuador

40

LATIN AMERICA / ECUADOR- page 40

PACIFIC ASIA Kuala Lumpur in Top 5 Rankings for Highest Tourist Arrivals

44

Select APT Departures Earn Savings of $1,459 Per Couple

46 PACIFIC ASIA / KUALA LUMPUR- page 44

ONE GLOBE. ONE TICKET.

Hahn Air Lines GmbH

www.hahnair.com

service@hahnair.com

Service partner and local helpdesk: Airworld Alliance Toll-free number: 1 877 HR169HR servicedesk@hahnair.biz

Hahn Air is a proven expert in providing e-ticketing solutions and a wide range of additional services to travel agents.

Each IATA agency is entitled do draw “Your Rooster” once a year, in order to waive one ADM based on previous revenue, which is related to HR-169 e-ticketing.

Find detailed information on www.hahnair.com

Following the maxim Your Ticketing Choice – Our Commitment 2011, Hahn Air expands its commitment to travel agents with special services, starting with “Your Rooster”.

Your Rooster

You feel penalised by an ADM? Claim it and get it waived!

INDUSTRY EVENTS LA CUMBRE 2011 WILL TAKE PLACE IN LAS VEGAS

few all-suite hotels in Las Vegas, with over 4,000 suites located in the 40-story tower. The hotel offers guests a 120,000-sq-ft casino and over 70 shops and restaurants. The hotel will welcome the international event jointly with The Palazzo.

Registrations are currently open for Buyer, GSA, and Exhibitor companies. Additionally, for the third consecutive year, La Cumbre continues to offer its Hosted Buyer Program, in which by completing five basic requirements, Buyers receive a complete refund of their registration fee.

To inquire about registration or participating in La Cumbre 2011, companies should use the email contact address supplied.

Reed Exhibitions, exhibitors@lacumbre.com, buyers@lacumbre.com, www.lacumbre.com

WORLD TRAVEL MARKET VOTED UKINBOUND INDUSTRY EVENT OF 2010 In its 22nd edition, La Cumbre will take place September 7–9, at The Venetian Hotel, Resort, and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. This must-attend event continues to gather the most prominent companies from the travel industry, exhibitors representing different countries of The Americas and buyers from all over the world.

After a day of conferences, 250 exhibitors and 300 pre-qualified buyers will attend pre-scheduled meetings during two intensive business days that follow.

According to Reed Travel Exhibitions’ 2010 post-show report, 95 percent of the buyers were wholesaler tour operators and part of them—18 percent—were also wholesaler retailers. Other attendants include incentive houses, event organizers and event management companies.

Buyers came from Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Honduras, India, Mexico, Nigeria, Panama, Peru, Romania, Spain, United Kingdom and the United States of America.

On the exhibitor side, 29 percent were hotels, 23 percent receptive tour operators, 18 percent were Convention and Visitors Bureaus, 16 percent tour operators, 15 percent resorts, and 10 percent attractions. Below the 10 percent were ranked shopping, transportation, hotel management, theme parks, airlines, entertainment, spa, cruise lines, car rental, conference centers, dinning, gaming, ski, software solutions, educational, rail and media companies.

Argentina, Bahamas, Belize, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Netherlands Antilles, Panama, Puerto Rico, and the United States of America were represented on the show floor.

Following the 2010 feature segment presentation that introduced High End organizations, this year La Cumbre will feature a new segment: Golf Tourism.

The spectacular Venetian Hotel, Resort, and Casino is one of the 4 • APRIL 2011

World Travel Market 2010 has been voted UKinbound’s Industry Event of the Year at the association’s annual convention Gala Dinner.

The awards, which took place at Alton Towers, Staffordshire, February 10, were voted by UKinbound members only, with one vote per member company.

World Travel Market triumphed in the Event of the Year category beating Best of Britain & Ireland, Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and the Encore WTM Party.

WTM 2010 was the largest-ever World Travel Market due to the $268 million expansion of host venue ExCeL, London. The event had 150 new exhibitors, including many in the UK and Ireland region.

New exhibitors in the UK and Ireland region include the Institute of Directors, Manchester United, Liverpool Football Club, The Guild of Travel and Tourism, Cutty Sark, St Paul’s Cathedral and Ripley’s.

Furthermore, WTM experienced a 10-percent increase in visitors across the four days to almost 27,000 (26,908), of these a massive 16,700 were interested in purchasing product from UK & Ireland and Europe.

The amount of business conducted at WTM also increased 25 percent with the event poised to generate approximately $2,314,780,000 in industry deals compared to $1,851,500,000 in 2009.

World Travel Market Exhibition Director Simon Press said: “I am delighted WTM 2010 was voted UKinbound’s Event of the Year. WTM 2010 was a great success with 150 new exhibitors, a 10-percent annual increase in the number of visitors and a 25-percent increase in the amount of industry business the event will generate.

“Recognition from the UKinbound’s members—who are some of the event’s key exhibitors and visitors—demonstrates what a great event for the industry WTM 2010 was.”

World Travel Market, www.wtmlondon.com; Reed Exhibitions Limited, www.reedexpo.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

Meet the world face to face...

For information on the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top travel trade shows and how to join us, visit

www.ittfa.org INTERNATIONAL TOURISM TRADE FAIRS ASSOCIATION

INDUSTRY EVENTS FIRST-EVER DISCOVER AMERICA PAVILION IN BEIJING Finally, after a number of successful Discover America Pavilions in Shanghai and Kunming, the first-ever Discover America Pavilion in Beijing is coming to BITE 2011–Beijing International Tourism Expo, June 17–19, 2011.

The Pavilion, organized in partnership with the U.S. Travel Association, is part of the worldwide Discover America Pavilion program and offers US exhibitors a number of hassle-free and costeffective participation options.

For seven years, BITE–Beijing International Tourism Expo, organized by the Beijing Tourism Administration (BTA) and Conference & Exhibition Management Services (CEMS) has attracted exhibitors from 82 countries (2010) and over 130,000 visitors. The Hosted Buyer and Pre-Scheduled Appointments programs virtually guarantee that exhibitors are connected with the right buyers.

Beijing, with a combined population of permanent and non-permanent residents exceeding 22 million, is China’s second largest city and its political and cultural center.

With finance one of the most important industries and home to some 30 Fortune Global 500 companies, Beijing has created a large and affluent upper and middle class, ready to spend on

ARTA

100% Travel Agents.

We’re proud to say that ARTA does not accept airlines or other suppliers as members.

We work ONLY for agents!

Sign up for our

FREE 30-day trial membership:

www.artaonline.com 6 • APRIL 2011

international travel.

The number of international travelers from China has increased remarkably in the past two decades, and is expected to continue growing with increases in disposable income and leisure time.

Beijing travelers tend to be younger and better educated, with a higher proficiency in English.

As one of the largest outbound generating cities in China, Beijing is the ideal venue for showing what the United States has to offer the Chinese traveler.

The Chinese Government’s relaxation of outbound travel and foreign exchange controls has created new choices for the traveler and more Chinese travel agencies are being allowed to operate outbound tours.

B-FOR International, b-for@exhibitpro.com, www.discoveramericapavilion.com, www.b-for.com

ESTC TOURISM INDUSTRY CONFERENCE TO TACKLE SUSTAINABILITY HEAD-ON The Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism Conference (ESTC) annually focuses on sustainable business strategies and solutions that inspire innovative change in the global tourism industry. This year, the ESTC is co-hosted by the Hilton Head Island (Hilton Head Island Visitor & Convention Bureau) and being held on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, September 19–21, 2011, at the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa. Organized by TIES (The International Ecotourism Society), the ESTC serves as an industry-wide platform to promote change, helping mainstream sustainability in the world of travel and tourism. This year’s ESTC, taking place in one of the nation’s first environmentally sensitive planned communities, faces a special opportunity to leave a lasting legacy of change.

In addition to showcasing some of the ongoing efforts by the destination to preserve its beauty and tranquility while promoting tourism, number one in the state of South Carolina, the Hilton Head Island community is ready to embrace various shades of green and to strengthen its charm with authentic, ethical and inspiring tourism opportunities.

ESTC 2011 will feature presentations and discussions with the goal of helping tourism businesses and professionals gain necessary tools and resources to effectively implement social, environmental and economic sustainability practices.

Key conference themes will include Mainstream Goes Green, Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism ROIs, and Sustainability as a Market Driver.

Various sponsorship and partnership opportunities are available to companies and organizations interested being part of this premier industry conference.

Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism Conference (ESTC), International Ecotourism Society (TIES), www.ecotourismconference.org; Hilton Head Island Visitor & Convention Bureau, jgardo@hiltonheadisland.org, www.hiltonheadislanwww.org www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

INDUSTRY EVENTS EIBTM 2011 TO BE DYNAMIC EVENT WITH MANY NEW AND RETURNING EXHIBITORS Building on the success of EIBTM 2010, this year’s Global Meetings and Events Exhibition, EIBTM 2011 taking place from November 29 to December 1 in Barcelona has already received an unprecedented level of re-bookings and requests for space from new participants.

The positive response from current exhibitors is a direct reflection of the success of last year’s event, confirming the quality and range of buyers who attend, the buyer-driven, pre-scheduled appointment system and ultimately the business that it drives for both exhibitors and Hosted Buyers.

Reed Travel Exhibitions is encouraging 2010 exhibitors and new exhibitors for 2011 to take advantage of the opportunities available at this three-day dynamic business event.

Exhibitors already confirmed include NH Hotels, Sol Melia, Turismo de Canarias, Greek National Tourism Organization, Madrid Convention Bureau, Agencia Catalana de Turisme, Monaco Government Tourist & Convention Authority, Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau, Hong Kong Tourism Board, Norway Convention Bureau, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau, Kingdom of Bahrain, and Visit Scotland and Barcelona Convention Bureau.

Amanda Henderson, Marketing Manager—Europe, Business Tourism Unit, Visit Scotland, commented, “EIBTM continues to go

from strength to strength. At last year’s show, in spite of the weather, the value of enquiry levels for Visit Scotland was up 50 percent. It’s a key show for us and we fully intend to return in 2011 with a strong party of Scottish suppliers.”

Exhibitors that have increased their stand space requirements for EIBTM 2011 include Hungarian National Tourist Office, Finland Convention Bureau, World of DMCs, Silversea, Laico Hotels and Resorts, Lago Maggiore, Moscow Exhibition & Convention Agency and Moroccan National Tourism Office.

Graeme Barnett, EIBTM Exhibition Director, remarked, “EIBTM 2010 was a great success with a 2.5-percent increase in total visitor attendance from the previous year. We’re thrilled with the response we’ve had so far from the industry—it’s a clear reflection of how positively the industry views EIBTM and further endorsement of the importance of face-to-face communication.”

He added, “We really value the strong industry relationships we have built as they play a fundamental role in the success of our IBTM portfolio. Our primary aim is to ensure high levels of return on investment for all attendees as it is a vital factor in the development of our shows.”

Companies interested in exhibiting at EIBTM 2011 should contact the sales team.

EIBTM 2011, www.eibtm.com; Reed Exhibitions, eibtm@reedexpo.co.uk (sales), www.reedexpo.co.uk

THE AFRICA TRAVEL ASSOCIATION proudly presents the

36th Annual ATA Congress Hosted by:

THE REPUBLIC OF SENEGAL The Ministry of Tourism and Handicrafts, Liaison with the Private Sector and Small Businesses When: May 25-29, 2011

Where: Dakar, Senegal

What: The four-day event provides a networking, learning and agenda-shaping platform for travel professionals, and addresses timely industry topics. It also offers professional development opportunities, round-tables for tourism ministers, an Africa Bazaar for buyers and sellers, host country days, gala dinners and pre- and post-country tours.

Media Partner:

MORE INFORMATION www.AfricaTravelAssociation.org • +1.212.447.1357 Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

APRIL 2011 •

7

INDUSTRY EVENTS

The U.S. Travel Association has entered into a cooperative partnership to help promote attendance at IMEX America in Las Vegas this October and, as a leading advocacy voice for the industry, will host a seminar during the show on key policy issues affecting incentive travel, meetings and events.

IMEX America is the United Statesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; new worldwide exhibition for the incentive travel, meetings and events business, an industry segment that is responsible for nearly 15 percent of all travel in the United States and creates $101 billion in spending, one million

jobs and nearly $16 billion in tax revenue at the federal, state and local level, according to the U.S. Travel Association.

Roger Dow, U.S. Travelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s President and CEO, said timing of the event and its attendees makes IMEX America a natural complement to U.S. Travelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Pow Wow, which will be held in May in San Francisco. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With U.S. Travelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interest in promoting meetings, events and incentive travel in our country year-round, IMEX America provides an ideal opportunity for us to raise visibility for this market during the second half of the year,â&#x20AC;? Dow said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;While International Pow Wow will continue to be the premier showcase for international leisure operators and meeting planners interested in US business during the first half of the year, IMEX Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s focus on incentive travel, meetings and events worldwide provides professionals in those segments another opportunity to develop contacts, network and gain valuable knowledge about this market.â&#x20AC;?

Ray Bloom, chairman of the IMEX group, said U.S. Travelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s support will be critical in successfully launching IMEX America, which will be held October 11â&#x20AC;&#x201C;13, 2011, at the Sands Expo and Convention Center, Venetian/Palazzo in Las Vegas. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Given its unique standing in representing the entire industry, U.S. Travelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s support opens new doors to help us introduce IMEX America on the largest scale possible so we can add optimal value to this important and dynamic business community in the States,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Modeled after its award-winning annual IMEX in Frankfurt, IMEX America is being launched with support from other leading industry associations that will be offering extensive free education to attendees during the event in addition to the U.S. Travel policy seminar.

Exhibitors and buyers can register their interest in IMEX America online, as well as view IMEX America TV. Discounted room bookings at the Headquarters Hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the Venetian/Palazzoâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;are now available.

U.S. Travel Association, www.ustravel.org; IMEX America, imexamerica.com/tv.html, www.imexamerica.com

,163,5,1* */2%(75277(56 )25 29(5

)RU WKRXVDQGV RI WRS VHOOLQJ LGHDV SOXV WKH EHVW DLUIDUHV

<($56

0DNH XS WR FRPPLVVLRQ

Ä&#x192; Ä&#x192; Ä&#x192; Ä&#x192; ZZZ JRZD\ FRP Ä&#x192; LQIR#JRZD\ FRP 8 â&#x20AC;˘ APRIL 2011

2016613-20

U.S. TRAVEL ENTERS COOPERATIVE PARTNERSHIP TO PROMOTE IMEX AMERICA 2011

www.travelworldnews.com â&#x20AC;˘ Travel World News

INDUSTRY EVENTS DISCOVER AMERICA PAVILION TO HAVE PRESENCE AT FRANCE’S IFTM TOP RESA 2011 IFTM Top Resa 2011, France’s leading international B2B tourism exhibition, will be held in Hall 7.2 at the Paris Porte de Versailles from September 20–23. This lively show, now in its 33rd year, is a top industry event for networking, doing business, innovating, and keeping abreast of market developments. In 2010, IFTM Top Resa was attended by over 27,000 trade professionals from 153 countries, with 41 percent representing travel agencies and 28 being product or marketing managers and events agencies.

IFTM Top Resa brings together all the tour operators and DMCs from French and international destinations, in addition to hotels and carriers, to present their products and services to the industry’s production and distribution professionals. Each year, thousands of travel agents and professionals come to IFTM Top Resa to develop their expertise and specialist knowledge through dedicated talks, demonstrations, games, events and more.

Participation in USA Pavilions provides U.S. travel and tourism destinations and suppliers with unique in-market opportunities to meet international buyers face-to-face through a number of cost-effective and hassle-free participation alternatives. The USA brand serves as a unifying element and quality standard, promoting the United States as the world’s premier travel destination.

The Discover America Pavilion organized by B-FOR International provides the U.S. travel and tourism industry with cost-effective means to reach targeted international audiences through all-inclusive Booth Packages with exhibit space, carpeting, furnishings, lighting, exhibitor signage, and access to the Discover America Pavilion Hospitality Lounge and Business Services for one low price.

The Discover America Pavilion offers sponsorship and promotional opportunities; optional rental furniture, plants and equipment; custom signage and graphics, custom booths; in-booth Wi-Fi Internet, on-site labor, booth staff and interpreters, consolidated shipments, hotel accommodations, and VAT refund service.

Participation in the Pavilion includes Discover America branding, a prime show location, state-of-the-art quality and design, an individual booth, exhibitor passes, a listing in the official show catalog and pavilion directories, hospitality and business services, Internet access, bilingual pavilion staff, daily cleaning and waste disposal, and press and media services (where applicable).

This arrangement creates customer- and user-friendly U.S. environments at international travel and tourism events, for the trade and public alike. B-FOR International, through Discover America Pavilion’s organized presence, aims to manage the U.S. image as it is presented at international travel and tourism events.

Presence in the Discover America Pavilion on the trade show floor in Paris will brand, position, and promote the US. According to the Office of Travel and Tourism Industries (OTTI), U.S. inbound travel from France reached a total of over 1.2 million in 2010 and is projected to increase by 30 percent by 2015.

B-FOR International, mwalsh@exhibitpro.com, b-for@exhibitpro.com,www.discoveramericapavilion.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

The most important business development of the year for Latin America Tourism. travelmartlatinamerica.com

September 11,12,13,2011 Florianopolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil APRIL 2011 •

9

2011 • CALENDAR OF EVENTS DATE

EVENT

MAY 2-5 5-11 10-12 11-13 12-15 15-18 16-18 19-20 21-25 25-29 26-29 JUNE 3-5 9-12 13-16 17-19 21-23 22-24 30-Jul AUGUST 23-25 30-Sept 1 SEPTEMBER 7-9 11-13 11-13 20-23 21-24 22-25 28-30 OCTOBER 4-6 4-6 6-8 11-13 12-14 17-20 19-21 19-21 21-23 27-30 NOVEMBER 1-4 2-5 7-10 11-14 14-17 16-18 16-18 18-20 29-Dec 1 DECEMBER 2-4 5-9 11-13

LOCATION

CONTACT

Arabian Travel Market Indaba CHTIC Expotur TPOC Conference & Trade Show Peru Travel Mart Global Spa Summit Faith Travel Conference & Expo International Pow Wow ATA Congress OneWorld Travel Mart

Dubai, UAE Durban, South Africa Montego Bay, Jamaica Costa Rica Louisville, KY Lima, Peru Bali, Indonesia Atlanta, GA San Francisco, CA Dakar, Senegal San Francisco, CA

www.arabiantravelmarket.com www.indaba-southafrica.co.za www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com www.expotur.com www.tpoc.org http://www.ptm-perutravelmart.com www.globalspasummit.org www.adventureexpo.com www.ustravel.org www.africatravelassociation.org www.oneworldtravelmart.com

Karibu Travel Fair ITE Hong Kong Intl. Luxury Travel Market ASIA BITE 2011 AIBTM CULTOUR BTC

Arusha, Tanzania Hong Kong, China Shanghai, China Beijing, China Baltimore, MD Quito, Ecuador Rimini, Italy

www.karibufair.com www.itehk.com www.iltm.net www.bitechina.com.cn www.aibtm.com www.cultourfair.com www.btc.it

Going on Faith Conference CIBTM

Richmond VA Beijing, China

www.gofconference.com www.cibtm.com

La Cumbre Travel Mart Latin America THETRADESHOW IFTM Top Resa Astana Leisure FITA 2011 PRHTA 25th Annual Convention

Las Vegas, NV Florianopolis, Brazil Las Vegas, NV Paris, France Astana, Kazakhstan Mexico City, Mexico San Juan, Puerto Rico

www.lacumbre.com www.travelmartlatinamerica.com www.thetradeshow.org www.iftm.fr www.leisure.kz/en www.fitamx.com www.prhta.org

The Motivation Show Ukraine Intl. Travel Market TTG Incontri IMEX America Cancun Travel Mart Adventure Travel World Summit ABAV ITB Asia Akwaaba: African Travel Market CITM 2011

Chicago, IL Kiev, Ukraine Rimini, Italy Las Vegas, NV Cancun, Mexico Chiapas, Mexico Rio De Janeiro, Brazil Singapore Lagos, Nigeria Kunming, China

www.motivationshow.com www.ukraine-itm.com.ua www.ttgincontri.it/en-en www.imex-america.com www.cancuntravelmart.com www.adventuretravel.biz www.reedtravelexhibitions.com www.itb-asia.com www.africantravelquarterly.com www.citm.com

Pure Life Experiences DEMA WTM London Taipei International Travel Fair Intl. Golf Travel Market Cruise Shipping Asia Exhibition MITM Americas Philoxenia EIBTM

Marrakech, Morocco Orlando, FL London, England Taipei, Taiwan Antalya Expo, Turkey Singapore El Salvador, CA Thessaloniki, Greece Barcelona, Spain

www.purelifeexperiences.com www.demashow.com www.wtmlondon.com www.taipeitf.org.tw www.igtm.co.uk www.cruiseshippingmiami.com www.mitmamericas.com www.philoxenia.travel www.eibtm.com

Monte Carlo Travel Market Grimaldi Forum, Monaco NTA Convention Las Vegas, NV USTOA Annual Conference & Marketplace Marco Island, FL TO LIST YOUR EVENTS EMAIL : editor@travelworldnews.com • FOR ADDITIONAL EVENTS VISIT:

10 •APRIL 2011

www.monte-carlo-travel-market.com www.ntaonline.com www.ustoa.com www.travelworldnews.com/calendar

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

INDUSTRY NEWS TRAVELSAVERS HIRES INDUSTRY VETERAN MAKIS XENATOS TO OVERSEE PROPRIETARY CRUISEEXPRESS BOOKING SOLUTION TRAVELSAVERS has announced that industry veteran Makis Xenatos, CTC, has joined the organization.

As Senior Vice President of cruiseexpress, Xenatos is responsible for overseeing the group’s proprietary online cruise booking engine.

“We’re so pleased to welcome Makis—a top-notch industry professional with a fine reputation—to our organization,” said Rick Mazza, President & CEO of TRAVELSAVERS. “He has a thorough understanding of both the cruise sector and the inner workings of the travel agency business. We look forward to the dynamic contribution he’ll make to our company and our agencies.”

Xenatos joins TRAVELSAVERS with 25 years of experience in the travel industry. He previously held sales and marketing positions with Epirotiki and Dolphin Cruise Lines, and was the CEO of Festival Cruises USA. In addition, he worked on the agency side as a Vice President Cruise and Tour Operators for Libgo Travel, which MARK XENATOS was the parent company of Liberty Travel and GOGO Worldwide Vacations, now part of Flight Centre USA. TRAVELSAVERS, www.travelsavers.com

KUMUKA INTRODUCES THEIR NEWEST MEMBER OF THE TEAM, K.A.T.I.E K.A.T.I.E provides a new and exciting online environment designed to help maximize Kumuka sales and destination knowledge.

K.A.T.I.E stands for “Kumuka Agent Training Interactive Experience,” and by logging in, agents are able to access product/destination information, Kumuka movie night details, interesting and educational presentations and more.

K.A.T.I.E allows access to both scheduled weekly webinars and On Demand presentations. Agents can even request a live training seminar with one of K.A.T.I.E’s Sales Manager friends in their area and download sales flyers. These features will prove to be invaluable in helping secure more bookings with Kumuka and to improve destination knowledge.

In addition, videos of Kumuka tours taken by Kumuka travelers are available, which will allow agents to see what it’s really like on a Kumuka tour. And while online, they can also check out the details of upcoming Kumuka movie nights, agent incentives, Educationals, and other Kumuka news and events. They may even check out the profiles of their Kumuka team and find their contact details, or email K.A.T.I.E their questions.

So whether agents want to do some online training, see what events are happening in an area, ask a question, or just explore the latest bits of research, K.A.T.I.E provides it all. She’s the hardest working trainer in the travel industry, and she’s available 24/7.

Kumuka Worldwide, (K.A.T.I.E) katie@kumuka.com, www.kumuka.com/katie.aspx, www.kumuka.com

PATH ELECTS 2011 BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND ANNOUNCES LAS VEGAS HOST AGENCY SYMPOSIUM PATH (Professional Association of Travel Hosts) held their fifth annual elections in January and selected a new board of directors: Anita Pagliasso (Ticket To Travel), President & Public Relations/Communications; Betsy Geiser (Uniglobe Travel), Vice President & Host Membership Committee; Kim Sherrett (Travel Planner Intl), Treasurer & Event Planning; Dan Chappelle (Expedia CruiseShipCenters), Secretary; Jackie Friedman (Nexion), Board Member & Supplier Relations; and Andi Mysza (Montrose Travel), Board Member & Host Membership Committee.

“I am excited to continue working alongside the rest of the PATH Board. Our collective mission is to provide a strong and equitable voice for all reputable host agencies. I have enjoyed the camaraderie of working together with a cohesive group of like-minded professionals who share common challenges facing all host agencies. Whether it’s on a quarterly conference call with other members, or a gathering at an industry conference, PATH will continue to provide various invaluable opportunities for all members to brainstorm with peers and meet with industry supporters. The association will continue to work together to create a leveraged voice regarding host needs, and to address common challenges,” stated Anita Pagliasso, Ticket To Travel and PATH President.

PATH will be sponsoring a two-day Host Agency Symposium May 4–5, 2011, at the Venetian Resort & Casino. This will be open to all host agencies, both PATH members and non-members. “Our last Symposium was deemed an overwhelming success from all of the participants.

We are excited to announce that plans are well underway for our next important gathering,” states Jackie Friedman, PATH Board Member and President of Nexion. During the event, which will be held at the same hotel following the conclusion of the Home-Based Travel Agent Forum, host agency owners and managers will address common challenges within the host agency business and collaborate to identify best practices on supplier partnerships, technology and training.Discussions will be held on legal issues, such as fraud protection, working with independent contractors, state seller of travel laws and clarification of coverage of E&O insurance providers. The 2011 event will be open to all host agencies, both PATH members and non-members alike.

PATH (Professional Association of Travel Hosts), membership@path4hosts.com, (Symposium registration/participation) www.path4hosts.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

APRIL 2011 •

11

INDUSTRY NEWS TRAVEL ALLIANCE PARTNERS LAUNCHES 250+ TAP-BRANDED TOURS, GUARANTEED TO GO North American-based Travel Alliance Partners, LLC (TAP) introduced its 2011/2012 series of TAP-branded tours featuring more than 250 Guaranteed Departures, a 400-percent increase in the number of tour programs offered since the program’s inception in 2006. TAP tours publicized in the 80-page 2011/2012 brochure and the www.GuaranteedDepartures.com website encompass more than 500 destinations worldwide, including the US and Canada, Mexico, Europe, South America, Australia, Asia and Africa.

TAP’s call center supports its expanded Guaranteed Departures. Travelers and travel professionals are able to discuss a travel adventure through a live operator, ask questions regarding TAP itineraries or request a mailed copy of the new brochure.

Those booking any of TAP’s Guaranteed Departures can be assured the trip is secure and will never be cancelled because of insufficient guest participation. TAP provides a range of Guaranteed Departures year-round in the form of motorcoach tours, cruises, guided RV tours and rallies as well as tours that highlight various holidays and special events.

Operated by TAP’s 38 US and Canada-based tour operators, who also own the organization, all of the tours are commissionable to travel agents and include nightly accommodations, tour transportation aboard a restroom-equipped motorcoach or specialty vehicle, the full-time services of an experienced tour director, breakfast daily as well as lunch and dinner as indicated on each itinerary, all admissions and fees for sightseeing and entertainment as indicated, and, gratuities for handling one large suitcase per guest throughout the trip. Tour prices are land- or cruise-only, but airfare and comprehensive travel insurance can also be purchased through TAP members when booking a tour.

Travel Alliance Partners (TAP), 866-373-0790 (call center), sgorder@travelalliancepartners.com, www.travelalliancepartners.com

HOTUSA HOTELS SURPASSES THRESHOLD OF 2,500 PARTNER ESTABLISHMENTS In 2010, Hotusa Hotels reached the figure of 2,529 partner hotels, adding 455 establishments to its portfolio. Grupo Hotusa’s chain of independent hotels offer a wide range of services particularly interesting in today’s economic climate, as seen by the growth in the portfolio.

In this sense, it is worth noting that 65 percent of the new additions came internationally, the most important rise being in Europe with 211 new hotels. Italy (43), the United Kingdom (29), France (26), Portugal (24) and Germany (20) are the countries with the highest number of new hotels. There were also 67 additions in the American market, 30 of them in Colombia and 15 in Argentina, while 12 and five new hotels were added in Asia and Africa, respectively.

Likewise, last year Hotusa Hotels added four new markets to its portfolio (Bulgaria, Ecuador, Thailand and Vietnam) and its range of hotels now encompasses a total of 50 countries. In turn, 35 percent of the new hotels were in Spain; Andalusia (45), Catalonia (32) and Valencia (11) were the regions with the steepest growth.The total figure for 2010 includes 66 new partner hotels in December, 36 of which are located outside of Spain, which proves the company’s steadfast commitment to internationalization.

The 2,529 Hotusa Hotels partner establishments are located in 26 European destinations: Germany, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Denmark, Slovakia, Spain, Finland, France, Greece, Holland, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Poland, Portugal, the United Kingdom, Czech Republic, Romania, Russia, Sweden, Switzerland and Turkey, 15 American countries: Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, the United States, Guatemala, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru and Venezuela, six Asian countries: China, United Arab Emirates, India, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, and three African countries: Morocco, Mozambique and Tunisia.

Grupo Hotusa, www.hotusa.com

ITALY TOPS FOUR CATEGORIES IN USTOA’S FIRST WORLD’S BEST LIST The U.S. Tour Operators Association has issued its first “World’s Best” list, ranking destinations in a variety of categories. Italy took top honors, as best destination in four categories: architecture, walking, romance, and culinary/wine experience. The country also trailed just behind France as best for art and culture, with France second as best destination for a romantic vacation. London placed first for entertainment, with New York and Rio de Janeiro closely tied for second. However, New York edged out Hong Kong and Italy as best shopping destination.

Winning destinations were based on informal rankings by more than 50 of the top companies arranging vacation experiences, tours, and packages worldwide. Full USTOA 2010 Rankings for Top Destination are as follows: Adventure, Soft Adventure: Costa Rica and New Zealand; Architecture: Italy (cited by nearly 55 percent of respondents) and Spain (cited by some 30 percent); Art & Culture: France (cited by more than 50 percent) and Italy (cited by 40 percent); Entertainment: London, New York, Rio de Janiero; History: Egypt, United Kingdom, Israel; Romantic Occasion: Italy (cited by 50 percent) and France (cited by over 40 percent); Shopping: New York City (cited by a third of respondents), Hong Kong (nearly 30 percent), Italy (25 percent); Walking: Italy, US Western National Parks, Prague; and Wine, Dining & Culinary Experience: Italy (cited by 45 percent), France (20 percent), Spain (13 percent), Napa Valley (12 percent).

USTOA members provide vacation arrangements for more than 11 million people yearly. The association’s members must meet the travel industry’s highest requirements, including participation in the USTOA Travelers Assistance Program, which requires, among other things, that each Active Member set aside $1 million security to protect consumer deposits and payment in the event the company goes out of business.

USTOA, www.ustoa.com 12 • APRIL 2011

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

INDUSTRY NEWS AVIAREPS & AIRWORLD ALLIANCE ENTER INTO US JOINT VENTURE AVIAREPS and Airworld Alliance are joining forces in the US by establishing a new joint venture under the name AVIAWORLD. AVIAREPS provides airline representation and destination marketing services, and Airworld Alliance is a North American airline representation company with over 30 years’ experience. AVIAWORLD will have a presence across four sales offices in New York, Houston, Chicago and Los Angeles.

AVIAWORLD will be headed by Eric Pechstein, who took over as General Manager of AVIAREPS’ US subsidiary in New York almost three years ago. The accomplished senior manager has an excellent After signing the contract (from left to right): Michael Gaebler (CEO reputation on the market and more than 25 years of experience in and Chairman of AVIAREPS),Rainer Kothe (CFO at AVIAREPS), the airline industry. Pechstein gained his industry expertise working with Airworld Board Members, Roger Mahil, Leslie J. Machado and for prestigious airlines such as Lufthansa, Qatar Airways and the Mok Singh. well-known airline brands American Airlines, Delta and US Airways.

The union offers great opportunities for companies from the aviation and tourism industries to be represented in the US. With significantly extended selling and operational capabilities with 46 professionals, relevant expertise from managing renowned client accounts together with a strong presence across all major US time zones and markets, AVIAWORLD is a leader in the US representation market.

Mok Singh, Group President and founder of Airworld Alliance, commented, “We are excited about the opportunities and unbeatable value that this joint venture will deliver to worldwide airline and tourism clients in the United States. Our extensive and experienced sales and distribution network along with 24/7 business support services offer tremendous growth opportunities for our clients on the US market.”

“Our merged cooperation opens up energetic and even more dynamic ways to attract clients all over the world for our valued management services. With a total of four offices in key areas, we will be more visible and present to bring our mission to our customer,” adds Michael Gaebler, Chairman and CEO of AVIAREPS. AVIAWORLD New York, nyc@aviaworldna.com, hou@aviaworldna.com; AVIAWORLD Chicago, chi@aviaworldna.com, lax@aviaworldna.com; www.aviaworldna.com; AVIAREPS, www.aviareps.com

QUARK EXPEDITIONS NOMINATED AS WORLD’S BEST TOUR OPERATOR BY TRAVEL & LEISURE MAGAZINE Quark Expeditions, a polar travel specialist, has been nominated by Travel & Leisure as the World’s Best Tour Operator in the magazine’s annual consumer survey.

On learning of the nomination, Hans Lagerweij, president of Quark, remarked, “Our 20th anniversary is turning out to be a year to remember!” He explained, “In January, we added Sea Spirit to our fleet for a new level of comfort in polar cruising. In February, our sponsorship of Antarctica: Photographs by Santiago Vanegas at the Atlanta airport successfully launched our new mobile website. Now March has begun with an unexpected honor. Travel & Leisure has nominated us as World’s Best Tour Operator.”

Continuing a 20-year tradition of innovation, Quark Expeditions will operate a 66-day world cruise from July 10 to September 13, 2011. Participants will visit Anchorage, Alaska; remote islands in the Russian Arctic; Norway’s Arctic wonderland Svalbard; Greenland; and the Northwest Passage, the northern route to Asia in the Canadian Arctic.

Most of the voyage will be conducted in continual daylight, as the route is far above the Arctic Circle. The Arctic Circumnavigation is the last time Quark’s flagship Kapitan Khlebnikov will carry passengers through northern waters. The conventional icebreaker retires as an expedition vessel in March 2012.

Three special guests will enrich the Quark’s onboard education program during the 2011 voyage: Greenland dogsledder Peter Schmidt Mikkelsen (August 4 to 24), Irish filmmaker and polar explorer John Murray August 22 to September 13, and Starpath School of Navigation founder David Burch providing hands-on training during the voyage in a full navigation station (included in the expedition’s price).

Cost of the Arctic Circumnavigation world cruise is $88,990 pp, based on twin occupancy. All cabins have facilities en suite and exterior views. Helicopter sightseeing and Zodiac cruising is also included.

Travelers interested in the voyage may activate Quark’s live chat or call toll-free 8:30–8 (Eastern) Monday through Thursday and 8:30–5 Friday.

Quark Expeditions, www.quarkexpeditions.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

APRIL 2011 •

13

NORTH AMERICA WILDCATTER RANCH OFFERS RUSTIC TEXAN EXPERIENCE FOR CORPORATE RETREATS

private bathrooms.

Wildcatter Ranch can fully customize meeting packages to fit any group’s needs. The cost to host a corporate retreat begins at $225 pp.

Wildcatter Ranch & Resort is 90 minutes from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) or two hours from Dallas Love Field airport (DAL). Staff can arrange transportation from either airport.

More information on hosting meetings at the ranch is available from Brooke Cowlishaw of Tucker & Associates and also on their website.

Wildcatter Ranch, brooke@tuckerpr.com, www.wildcatterranch.com

FAIRBANKS ALASKA 2011 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE NOW AVAILABLE

Meeting planners seeking a unique corporate retreat should consider Wildcatter Ranch & Resort northwest of Fort Worth near Graham, Texas. For groups up to 50, everything needed for a fun yet productive Western-themed retreat is here.

Wildcatter’s hotel and conference center, opened in 2008, features a Victorian-themed, 1800s-era Texas design with richly comfortable classic furnishings. The new development includes a cocktail lounge, four corporate meeting rooms and a 1,600-sq-ft grand hall conference center with a dramatic double stairwell surrounding a two-story fireplace. Each meeting room offers top-of-the-line audiovisual equipment. The hotel contains a total of 3,600 sq ft of event space.

Wildcatter Ranch provides a team-building experience unlike any other. Corporate teams can vie it out in calf penning—a competition to see who can sort cattle the fastest—or skeet shooting on a state-of-the-art six-point clay range. Groups will also enjoy adventure races around the 1,500-acre property overlooking the Brazos River Valley, as well as horseback riding, canoeing, paintball, archery and more.

Activities can be tied into the subject of a meeting. For example, to illustrate a discussion on branding, guests can practice “branding” a leather product such as a mouse pad, which they can take home to remember the experience.

Meals and refreshments can be anything from sit-down meals at the award-winning Wildcatter Steakhouse to fajita buffets or authentic Texas barbecue by the resort’s “infinity edge” pool.

There are 16 upscale hotel rooms and 16 cabin suites, each reflecting a historical theme. Most suites have two queen beds, a bath and a half, and can comfortably sleep two.

For a more private experience, guests can reserve The Homestead, a charming two-bedroom, one-bath guest cottage with open living and dining space, or O.T.’s Cabin, a beautifully decorated guest house with two king bedrooms and two 14 • APRIL 2011

The Fairbanks 2011 Official Visitors Guide, a 76-page, full-color booklet, is now available for free. This annual publication introduces the heart of Alaska, characterized by wide expanses of tundra, boreal forests and the tributaries of mighty glacier-fed rivers.

Fairbanks’ position under the Auroral Oval—combined with a balance of clear nights, occurrence frequency and activity—makes it one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights from mid-August to April. During the remaining months, the midnight sun invigorates visitors.

The heartwarming “Authentic Alaskan” testimonials included in the guide convey the indomitable and adventurous spirit of the residents. The subsistence lifestyle of Athabascan Alaska Natives whose ancestors have inhabited the region for thousands of years is enlightening. Of the 42 tribal communities in the Interior, only 11 are accessible by road. Travelers may take a flightseeing tour that crosses the Arctic Circle and lands in a remote village.

Visitors opt to experience the year-round energy of the Alaska lifestyle. They can mine for gold, feel the spirit of Christmas in the nearby City of North Pole, tour the “haul road” along the TransAlaska Pipeline or watch artists carve intricate two-story ice sculptures.

They’ll cheer elite athletes as they lead the pack in sled dog races, bring home the gold in Nordic skiing and rifle competitions, or compete in grueling boat and snow machine races. While relishing the frontier lifestyle, the community is also proudly quirky and surprisingly civilized. The traditional and contemporary arts scene is brimming with award-winning musicians, skilled visual and literary artists and artisans, Athabascan beadworkers, thespian productions, classical concerts and original performances.

More information about Alaska’s Interior and Arctic is available by contacting FCVB, as well as a free copy of the 2011 Fairbanks Visitors Guide.

Fairbanks Convention & Visitors Bureau (FCVB), 800-327-5774, www.explorefairbanks.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

A L A S K A An escape to the Hideaways provides a peaceful, cozy cabin with a view that will knock your socks off. A place for privacy.

For people looking for a respite or casual wanderers and assorted drifters, who want to be lost (on purpose) in the heart of Alaska’s interior.

www.alaskarangehideaways.com

B 2 B

E X C H A N G E Discover Anchorage. Big Wild Life™ Anchorage offers larger-than-life experiences.

Get up-close and personal with local wildlife, step foot on a glacier, catch wild Alaska salmon or experience Alaska Native culture.

There’s no place more wild, rugged, and breathtakingly beautiful than Alaska’s Denali National Park & Preserve No place more ideal to experience it from than Denali Park Resorts.

McKinley Chalet Resort and McKinley Village Lodge are located in the heart of Alaska’s magnificent interior, with awe-inspiring views of some of the most pristine geography on earth.

www.denaliparkresorts.com

www.anchorage.net

A place built on gold still shines through its people

Entrée Alaska is all about reaching out, exploring, and experiencing Alaska with private guides and the finest amenities available in the state.

We offer adventures and destinations spectacular and far off the beaten path.

Even on the main tourist routes, we can show you a better way to experience Alaska.

World-class sport fishing, w ildlife adventure tours, and your ow n unique brand of do-it-all adventure vacation... its here at our exciting adventure lodge.

Juneau, Alaska. Thoughts of this capital city might conjure up visions of whales and glaciers – and we have plenty of both.

But there’s also natural beauty, small town charm and friendly locals who truly love the place they call home.

www.greatalaska.com www.entreedestinations.com

Prince William Sound Salmon fishing season June 1 to Sept 1 All tackle and bait provided.Each charter boat is equipped with Radar, GPS, Fishfinders, 2 radios and a cell phone.

Each captain is a licensed Alaskan Fishing Guide able to assist in catching your first Alaskan salmon. Halibut or Shark fishing requires extra day stay.

www.visit-ketchikan.com

Swifty and staff look forward to seeing you.

WWW.EXPLORE FAIRBANKS.COM

www.swifty.net

Call 1-800-327-5774 for your free Visitors Guide.

NORTH AMERICA ALL DISCOVERY CRUISING CELEBRATES SUCCESSFUL FISCAL 4TH QUARTER

All Discovery Cruising North America celebrated its most profitable fourth quarter in the company’s history (based on worldwide sales excluding Antarctica/South Pacific sailings).

Celebrations were held in the Ft. Lauderdale office joined by UK-based senior executives Rob Bryant, CEO, and Geoff Lawrence, Sales and Marketing Director for All Leisure Group PLC, parent company of All Discovery Cruising.

President Steve Novello described their strategy: “We focused our core efforts on cultivating relationships with our loyal past guests and our dedicated travel partners who have supported us over the years, while developing new partnerships with agencies who precisely target our demographic and who are eager to sell a unique and exciting cruise portfolio. Depending on the brand, our fares include air, hotel, or shore excursions so travel agents also have the potential of earning larger commissions with our one-stop shopping solution.”

During the festivities All Discovery Cruising also honored Brian McLaughlin, owner of Northport, New York agency TravLtips, as its 2010 Agency Partner of the Year.

Shown left to right: All Leisure Group’s Geoff Lawrence, Sales & Marketing Director and Rob Bryant, CEO; 2010 Agency Partner of the Year Brian McLaughlin, TravLtips; All Discovery Cruising North America’s Steve Novello, President and Bill Dwyer, Vice President of Sales.

All Discovery Cruising–North America, 866-623-2689, www.alldiscoverycruising.com

THE RESORT AT PAWS UP APPOINTS TINA HARLOW AS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Tina Harlow, a 20-year veteran of the hospitality industry, has recently become Chief Executive Officer of The Resort at Paws Up, an upscale ranch resort in Montana. Situated on 37,000 acres in Montana’s Blackfoot Valley, Paws Up is known for “glamping”—glamorous camping—and boasts 24 luxury tented accommodations, as well as 28 luxury vacation homes. In her new position, Tina will conTINA HARLOW tinue to enhance Paws Up’s reputation for first-class personalized service and oversee all resort operations.

Tina most recently joins Paws Up from Ventana Inn & Spa in Big Sur, CA, where she served as General Manager. At Ventana, she helped facilitate a $24-million renovation and implemented an em16 • APRIL 2011

ployee training and appreciation program to strengthen the hotel’s management team and guest service. Previously she was GM for several award-winning four- and five-star properties throughout the US, Mexico and the Caribbean including The Lodge at Koele, Lanai, Hawaii; Mansion on Forsyth Park, Savannah, GA; Casa del Mar Beach Golf & Spa Resort, San Jose del Cabo, Mexico; and Assistant General Manager at Caneel Bay Resort, St. John, during her tenure with Rosewood Hotels & Resorts.

The Resort at Paws Up, 800-473-0601, www.pawsup.com

PORTER AIRLINES LAUNCHES SEASONAL SERVICE TO MYRTLE BEACH FROM CANADA Porter Airlines launched its second year of seasonal service to Myrtle Beach, S.C., on February 17. Porter offers the only nonstop flights between Canada and Myrtle Beach, a destination well-suited to those looking for pleasant weather and family-friendly value, with its beautiful beaches and award-winning golf courses.

Porter is providing four weekly roundtrips, increased from two last year, between Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport and Myrtle Beach International Airport, through May 23. With flights on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, the schedule is ideal for taking advantage of the winter/spring golf season.

Connecting flights are available in Toronto for Thunder Bay, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City and Halifax. Reservations can be made online or through travel agents, with regular one-way fares from Toronto starting at $179, plus fees and taxes.

The airline is Canada’s third-largest scheduled carrier and an Official 4 Star Airline® in the World Airline Star Rating® by Skytrax. Porter passengers, through the airline’s VIPorter frequent flyer program, earn a free flight after as few as five one-way trips.

Porter Airlines, 888-619-8622, www.flyporter.com

AMERICAN CRUISE LINES’ MISSISSIPPI STERNWHEELER AHEAD OF SCHEDULE American Cruise Lines’ new 140-passenger Mississippi sternwheeler is currently under construction at Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, MD. The hull is nearly complete and the superstructure is taking shape. The paddlewheeler will fully recreate the grandeur of past riverboats, with the latest safety, environmental and construction technologies.

This is the first and grandest overnight paddlewheeler built for the Mississippi in nearly twenty years. It will have the largest staterooms ever, almost all with private balconies. A multitude of lounges will not only accommodate various passenger tastes in onboard activity but truly capture the historic essence of the Mississippi River experience. The ship will boast a grand salon, card room, library, sky lounge, showroom, and Internet lounge.

American Cruise Lines will operate the riverboat over the entire Mississippi River System. A number of unique seven-night cruises are planned that take passengers as far as St. Paul on the Mississippi River and Pittsburgh on the Ohio River.

American Cruise Lines, www.americancruiselines.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

EUROPE

Valletta – City of the Knights CONRAD THAKE DANIEL CILIA

Aerial view of Valletta.

V

alletta’s genesis was conceived in the aftermath of the Great Siege of 1565 when, the Knights of the Order of St. John had, against all odds, withstood the onslaught of the Ottoman Turkish army. Grand Master La Valette decreed that a new City of the Order would be built over the then barren Sceberras peninsula. The city would be totally surrounded by massive fortification walls that seem to rise straight from the surrounding sea. This massive urban bulwark would, in the event of an expected Turkish invasion, serve as major line of defense.

In fulfilling this vision of building a new city, the Grand Master engaged the Italian architect Francesco Laparelli who had previously served as an assistant to the great Michelangelo whilst preparing designs for the dome of St. Peter’s in Rome. Valletta was planned along a strictly gridiron plan that was laid along the undulating terrain of the peninsula. Valletta was planned in the tradition of the Ideal Renaissance cities in accordance with a set of rational town 18 • APRIL 2011

planning principles. Valletta’s main raison d’être was that of a fortified military city that would accommodate all the infrastructure and facilities of the Order of St. John. There would be a Co-Cathedral, a Grand Master’s Palace, a Sacra Infermeria or hospital, and several churches and auberges that served as hostels for the knights belonging to the seven langues or languages of Order.

Initially, during the late sixteenth and early seventeenth century, the architecture was austere and spartan in appearance –a reflection of the military character of the city.

However over time, as the threat of an impending Turkish invasion abated, the Order could afford to focus its energies and finances on the construction of lavish palatial buildings.

The Knights sought to project Valletta as the monumental Baroque capital of a sovereign and military Order and, in the process, aspired to be recognized on par with other European states on the continent. The early Renaissance palaces were remodeled and enlarged. The Baroque became the prevailing style permeating all art forms – painting, www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

EUROPE DANIEL CILIA

sculpture and architecture.

In sharp contrast with other towns on the island, Valletta has throughout its history always been engrained with a distinctive cosmopolitan flavour that dispels all notions of parochial insularity. The Knights were forward-looking and sought to engage the services of established architects, artists and military engineers. Artistic personalities of international fame such as Francesco Buonamici, Romano Carapecchia, Mattia Preti and Caravaggio all contributed to the transformation of Valletta from a relatively austere town to a splendid urban showcase of a Baroque city. Valletta earned its status as a World Heritage Site in 1980 on the basis that it is one of finest Renaissance-period military cities to be built in accordance with an orthogonal plan and also due to its visually impressive and elaborate network of fortifications.

There are various major landmarks within Valletta. St. John’s Co-Cathedral, adorned with Mattia Preti’s frescoes on the life of St. John the Baptist, is a veritable showcase of the Baroque.

Within the adjoining Oratory is Caravaggio’s most famous painting ‘The Beheading of St. John’* which attracts thousands of visitors every year. The Grand Master’s Palace and the various auberges, palaces and churches built by the Order all contribute to the grand urban spectacle.

However, Valletta is not just a historic showpiece. It is a vibrant city where people reside, Romano Carapecchia’s Church of St. Catherine of Italy. work or merely visit. It hosts various public manifestations ranging from Carnival, Arts festivals, religious processions, open-air concerts and theatre. A num- are projects as yet unfulfilled but which could in the ber of historic buildings have been rehabilitated and re- future further consolidate Valletta’s preeminent status as a adapted to contemporary uses. A prime example is that of St. World Heritage City.

Throughout the history of cities, there have been a number James’ Centre for Creativity. This late-sixteenth-century cavalier (raised rampart) set within the city’s fortified land- of so-called ‘instant cities’ that have arisen from a clean slate front was transformed into a socially relevant centre for the in accordance with a preconceived plan. One can mention St. Petersburg, Chandigarh, and Brasilia amongst others. creative arts.

Valletta as Malta’s capital city faces a number of challenges Valletta certainly ranks as one of the finest of Ideal as it seeks to re-invent itself for contemporary society whilst Renaissance Cities – a fortified city cast as a machine of war striving to retain its original historic character. It is no longer which evolved over the centuries into a veritable Baroque the city of a military and religious order as it was originally treasure house.

Valletta Local Council Asministration, conceived.

Today, it represents the aspiration of an island-state that is a www.cityofvalletta.org; Malta Tourism Authority, full and active member of the European Union. There are still www.visitmalta.com grand schemes for the site of the former Opera House that Conrad Thake Ph.D (Berkeley) is an architect and co-author of was destroyed during the Second World War the books Malta – The Baroque Island and Malta – War & Peace, and for the imposing fortified enclave of Fort St. Elmo. These an architectural chronicle 1800-2000.

Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

APRIL 2011 •

19

EUROPE EUROPEAN WATERWAYS PRESENTS SPRINGTIME IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE ONBOARD ROSA

ZAGREB SAW 13% MORE FOREIGN GUESTS IN JANUARY In January 2011, Zagreb saw 28,766 tourist visits and 52,250 overnight stays which marks an eight-percent increase in visits and a six-percent increase in overnight stays in respect to 2010 when the Zagreb Tourist Board registered 26,514 visits and 49,170 overnight stays.

Of the overall tourists visiting Zagreb, 17,964 were foreign guests with 33,562 overnight stays, which saw a 13-percent increase in visits and a 12-percent increase in overnight stays in respect to January 2010, when the figures registered were 15,924 and 29,895, respectively. Topping the list of visits were tourists from BiH, followed by those from Germany, Serbia, Italy and Austria.

Based on such positive results, the Zagreb Tourist Board is highly satisfied and expects such activity to continue throughout the year.

Zagreb Tourist Board, www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr

TRAVEL MARKETING WORLDWIDE ANNOUNCES EXPANSION INTO EUROPE There is no experience quite like springtime in the South of France.

European Waterways’ gorgeous Dutch hotel barge Rosa begins her first full season this April, cruising the Canal de la Garonne that links the Atlantic with the Mediterranean. It is a cruising experience that will immerse passengers in a world of picturesque villages, countryside and local cuisine.

The vessel is an old friend and one of European Waterways’ most prized hotel barges. Some people may remember her appearance on the hugely successful BBC TV series ‘French Odyssey’, where she was taken on a culinary journey by celebrity chef Rick Stein.

Newly refurbished, Rosa now presents an exquisite wood-paneled saloon, with comfortable seating and a bar. Passengers can relax on her deck, as they bask in the French sun and even relax in her very own spa pool.

The new route from Agen to Montauban offers the very essence of Gascony. Passengers will visit historic Montauban, experience ancient abbeys, indulge in wine, Armagnac and fois gras tastings and even traverse an impressive 1,000-ft aqueduct.

Eight passengers can enjoy this experience, staying in one of four double cabins, each air-conditioned and with en suite facilities, or a party can charter the whole barge.

Rates for a cruise aboard Rosa are from $3,850 per person sharing a double cabin and from $26,800 for an exclusive charter of the entire vessel for eight passengers. This is all-inclusive (excl. travel).

European Waterways is the largest all-inclusive hotel barging company in Europe, offering six-night/seven-day cruises on its fleet of luxury hotel barges in nine European countries.

Tandem cruises for larger parties are available as well as a wide selection of themed cruises, such as wine appreciation, golf and even honeymoon charters.

European Waterways, www.gobarging.com 20 • APRIL 2011

Travel Marketing Worldwide has announced the launch of their European portfolio. This new portfolio, dedicated to representing properties and ground operators throughout the European region to US-based tour operators, includes products core to the Travel Marketing Worldwide mission focused on promoting travel experiences that are respectful cultural exchange and that offer a strong sense of place.

“Our European portfolio strategy developed as we continued to see rising economies, such as Croatia, Romania and Bulgaria, creating new tourism destinations that are very attractive to US travelers,“ said Jacob Marek, Principal Consultant for the European Portfolio. “The US market is an important source of outbound travel globally, especially to the European region,” said Joshua Smith, Principal Consultant for the European Portfolio. “The value of Travel Marketing Worldwide is apparent in the strong network created by the team. We’re able to combine resources and truly increase the presence of niche suppliers in the US through industry development and additional coverage across the nation.”

The Travel Marketing Worldwide team will be covering the globe in 2011 including a presence at INDABA in South Africa in May, the ATTA Adventure World Summit in Mexico in October, WTM London in November and the USTOA Marketplace in December.

Travel Marketing Worldwide is a business-to-business marketing firm focused on helping travel agents and tour operators sell responsible, boutique travel product from Latin America, Europe, Africa, Asia Pacific and the Himalayas and Middle East. The core of Travel Marketing Worldwide’s services involves helping suppliers of experiential international travel product package and market itineraries to travel agents and tour operators in North America.

Travel Marketing Worldwide, info@travelmarketingworldwide.com, www.travelmarketingworldwide.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

The Mediterranean as it once was 800 829 4416 email cntony@earthlink.net http://croatia.hr/en-GB/Homepage

Croatian National Tourist Board

Why Adria Events DMC? Made up of professionals who were the pioneers of MICE industry in Croatia and understand the sophisticated traveler.

Why Croatia?

Located directly across the Adriatic Sea from the ‘boot’ of Italy, A place where East meets West, and where the Mediterranean and the Pannonian plain come together.

Discover Croatia – a new, exciting destination on the world’s map and let us lead you every step of the way!

T H E C A P I TA L O F C R O AT I A

ZAGREB TOURIST BOARD tel. + 385 (0)1 481 40 51 www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr

Built as a gilded private residence at the beginning of the 20th century and, along with three other private villas converted into a hotel complex.

A reliable partner and flexible travel agency located in Zagreb, Croatia’s capital.

www.adria-events.hr

www.bantours.hr

Travel with Jauntee – a Croatia Expert in Travel Planning Discover Croatia’s historic cities, charming towns, great food & fine wine, secluded beaches, striking architecture, roman ruins and antiquities, unique shopping & outdoor activities, and warm, friendly people.

A tradition for more than 60 years!

The leading regional hotel chain proudly continues the long tradition of welcoming visitors to the Opatija Riviera.

Always respecting the needs and wishes of our visitors we ensure the highest quality of tourist products on the Croatian Adriatic.

A full-service day spa, a private beach with seaside pool, extensive gardens and fine dining with Dubrovnik as a backdrop.

www.gva.hr A leading Croatian hospitality management company, operating 40 properties situated on the Adriatic coast, with major presence in two main tourist regions in Croatia – in Istria and Dubrovnik.

www.jauntee.com

www.liburnia.hr

The world’s best tour operators have chosen Generalturist as their European agency partner and in cooperation with Generalturist they have been creating travel packages and other business services for corporate clients.

Mala-Luna offers unforgettable holidays on the beautiful island of Solta.

We operate: • 23 hotels • 8 apartment villages • 9 campsites

www.valamar.com

Tourist boat excursions and air-conditioned van transporation provided.

We have many years of experience and hundreds of guests who return every year to spend a their holiday on our island.

Welcome to Solta!

www.generalturist.com

EUROPE UNWTO AND CROATIA STRENGTHEN COLLABORATION

the influence of the media and tourism on various segments of the economy and the overall image of a tourism oriented country.”

“This meeting has been extremely constructive and we very happy that as a result, Croatia will be holding this important conference,” said Mr. Rifai.

In the last decade Croatia has consolidated its position as a principal tourism destination in South-Eastern Europe. In 2009, thanks to a strong tourism strategy that included the enhancement of visa facilitation, support to the increase of airlift capacity and several agreements with tour operators, Croatia received over nine million international tourist arrivals and nine billion dollars in tourism receipts. Results for 2010 show continued growth with an impressive rate of five percent in international arrivals.

“Croatia is a true tourism success story and we look forward to continuing in this spirit of collaboration,” added Mr. Rifai.

World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), www.unwto.org

ADVENTURE CENTER OFFERS FAMILIES A TWIST ON EUROPEAN VACATIONS

UNWTO and Croatia have agreed to further advance sustainable tourism and maximize contribution to economic growth, job creation and development in the country. Planned joint activities include the holding of the ‘First International Conference on Tourism and the Media’ in Zagreb next September.

Visiting UNWTO headquarters on February 15, the Croatian Minister of Tourism, Damir Bajs, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai, in which both parties commit to deepen their existing collaboration. The MoU will translate into further cooperation on key issues such as governance, sustainability, competitiveness, innovation and promotion.

One of the first outcomes of this new cooperation framework will be the holding of the ‘First International Conference on Tourism and the Media’ to take place in Zagreb, Croatia. The Conference, jointly organized by UNWTO and Croatia, will focus on how to improve the editorial positioning of tourism in the media, stressing the sector’s relation with economic growth, country image and international positioning.

“This is a new quality in the already existing partnership relation between Croatia and UNWTO,” said Mr. Bajs. “I am especially glad that Croatia will be hosting the first-ever international conference on tourism and the media. This conference will deal with 22 • APRIL 2011

Adventure Center is inviting families to enjoy “Dalmatian Adventure Family Holiday,” an adventure on Mijet, one of Croatia’s most beautiful islands. Prices start at $1,100 ppdo for the trip—and with a maximum group size of 24, guests are privy to the exclusivity of a small tour at an affordable rate.

The roundtrip program kicks off with dinner and a sightseeing tour along the cobblestone streets of enchanting Dubrovnik—the only eastern Adriatic city-state to rival Venice for maritime trade.

From there, families take a short cruise to the beautiful Croatian island of Mljet, a slender isle of national parks, steep cliffs, turquoise waters and colorful reefs. During the six-night stay, families enjoy a walking tour, revealing ancient stone villages nestled within the island’s scenic interiors; two days of cycling and exploration in the lush national parks; opportunities to swim in the island’s salt water lakes and explore its rich forests; sea kayaking in the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea; and a free day, with exciting optional activities including snorkeling, windsurfing and canoeing.

Pricing for the five departure dates, April 17 through August 21, 2011, range from $1,100 to $1,350, and include ground transport, accommodations and half-board; single supplements start at $175.

Adventure Center has provided world-class, affordably priced adventure travel experiences with one-on-one advice for more than 40 years. Formerly known as Trek Escapes/Trek Holidays in Canada and Adventure Center in the US, the company’s Travel Specialists have personally traveled to more than 130 countries and offer knowledgeable guidance to guests in selecting an “adventure of a lifetime.”

Adventure Center is a member of the TUI Travel PLC family of companies.

Adventure Center, www.adventurecenter.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

EUROPE B2B WORKSHOP, PRESENTATION OF KVARNER REGION FEATURED AT ANNUAL WORKSHOP IN NYC BY CROATIAN NATIONAL TOURIST OFFICE

The Croatian National Tourist Office (CNTO) presents an organized workshop for travel professionals in New York every year. This informative event attracts American partners, tour operators and travel agents interested to learn about Croatian regions not generally known about by travel professionals and therefore under-promoted to the general public.

This year’s workshop was held at NYAC in New York on February 24. Attendance was excellent. CNTO invited more than 100 tour operators and travel partners to meet with Croatian suppliers.

Exhibitors totaled 28 and included tourist boards, tour operators, hotel representatives, cruise liners, medical tourism and spa representatives.

CNTONY along with Primorsko Goranska County of Croatia organized a presentation of its beautiful region of Kvarner and its islands that are attracting American visitors more and more each year.

The most popular tourist resorts of Kvarner region are Opatija and its riviera. Opatija was a very popular vacation resort for the Hapsburg nobility of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and the prized area has enjoyed a solid tradition in tourism for more than 160 years. Drawn by its mild microclimate, Opatija’s glittering guest list included crowned heads, composers, novelists, and other celebrities of the day, who flocked to the rich area to take in the sea air and revive their health in hot baths, cold baths and rejuvenative enjoyment.

Opatija is a place where visitors feel wonderful, surrounded by opulent elegance still, along with natural beauty and a tradition of health restoration. The region is known now for medical tourism, spas and wellness, and it is this area that presently offers such great potential for tours and programs of special interest.

Sharing its beautiful culture with attendees, the Kvarner region presented a concert of Croatian musicians featuring popular and authentic melodies at the workshop.

Croatian National Tourist Board, 800-829-4416, cntony@earthlink.net, www.croatia.hr/en-GB/Homepage; Croatian National Tourist Office (CNTONY), cntony@earthlink.net, us.croatia.hr Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

TERMINAL 2 SATELLITE FACILITY AT MUNICH AIRPORT CLEARED FOR TAKE-OFF With a green light to start building a new Terminal 2 satellite facility, the Munich Airport and Lufthansa boards have now released details of the project. Dr. Michael Kerkloh, CEO of Munich Airport, said the expansion will take the Bavarian hub to the next level: “We are gaining handling capacity for an additional 11 million passengers a year, which puts us in the order of magnitude of today’s Frankfurt Airport.”

Thomas Klühr, who heads the Munich and Direct Services Division as well as Munich hub operations for Lufthansa, sees the project as key for putting the structures in place to handle planned long-term growth at the Munich location. He said the step represents “the continuation of the success story jointly written by Lufthansa and FMG, and unparalleled anywhere else in the world.”

The construction of Terminal 2 marked the first time that an airline and an airport operating company jointly assumed entrepreneurial responsibility for designing, building and operating a passenger handling facility of this kind.

Terminal 2, opened in 2003, will reach its capacity of 25 million passengers this year.

The new satellite building will be a functional and operational component of Terminal 2, with a pier almost 2,000 ft long providing space for 52 gates. The new facility will be linked to Terminal 2 via an underground passenger transportation system.

The new building, scheduled to go into operation in 2015, will offer all-important services in an area totalling over 1.3 million sq. ft., including two Lufthansa Service Centers with 24 transfer desks and 42 passport control stations. Five Lufthansa lounges in the satellite will double the lounges available in and around Terminal 2.

At the center of the satellite on both passenger levels, attractive marketplaces will be set up covering over 100,000 sq ft replete with natural light. CO2 emissions in the new building will be 40 percent lower than in the existing T1 and T2 terminals.

Passengers starting their journey in Munich will reach the satellite facility quickly and directly. After checking in and passing through the screening points in Terminal 2, they will be just a few steps from an underground station, where fully automatic trains will take them to the satellite in less than a minute.

As in the main Terminal 2 building, the trains will stop at the center of the satellite facility, ensuring that all departure gates are nearby. The simple layout and clear signage in the satellite will also enable connecting passengers to reach their flights quickly and easily.

Investment costs (over $900 million for the new building) will be shared by FMG and Lufthansa on a 60:40 basis, as was done in the original Terminal 2 development.

Munich Airport (Flughafen München GmbH [FMG]), www.munich-airport.de/en; Lufthansa, www.lufthansa.com APRIL 2011 •

23

EUROPE MARITIM HOTELS OFFER ACCOMMODATIONS FOR CONFERENCES IN HEART OF BERLIN

Maritim Hotel Berlin, a superior four-star hotel with an event capacity of up to 5,500, is the largest conference hotel in Berlin’s center. Its principal facility, Maritim Hall, provides space for up to 3,100 people and Berlin Hall can accommodate 1,200. A further 21 conference and seminar rooms and three foyers with direct connection to the halls are available, as well as 41 suites for smaller gatherings of 8 to 24. Together with the Maritim proArte Hotel Berlin in Friedrichstrasse, the two offer optimal conditions for meetings and congresses, especially for large international events.

Maritim’s new website tools have made planning and running events of all sizes easier. They include an online banquet folder, a built-in budget calculator and the introduction of two basic flat daily rates that can be extended by individually bookable service components.

Maritim Hotel Berlin in Stauffenbergstrasse is centrally located between the Culture Forum and the Zoo and has 505 rooms, with 71 suites. The presidential suite is the largest in town and its roof terrace offers an impressive panoramic view of the city.

The Maritim proArte Hotel has many areas decorated with paintings by contemporary German artists. The property is located in Friedrichstrasse in the heart of Berlin near the Brandenburg Gate and the Gendarmenmarkt and has 403 double rooms in various categories including 29 suites, two presidential. All rooms are equipped with the latest communications technology.

Maritim proArte Hotel was first in Berlin to be certified organic by Agro-Öko-Consult Berlin GmbH, an EU control unit for the ecological production and processing of agricultural products. Guests of the elegant four-star hotel can now have organically grown food for breakfast and lunch. They choose from Galerie’s breakfast, lunch and special buffets; Media Bistro’s light lunches; and Atelier gourmet restaurant, graced by works of Philippe Stark and Peter Kuckei.

Maritim Hotelgesellschaft, www.maritim.com

GERMAN EMIGRATION CENTER AWAITS MUSEUM RECONSTRUCTION AND RETURN OF ‘THE EGG’ THIS YEAR Minister of State for Culture and Media Bernd Neumann visited the German Emigration Center in Bremerhaven in February, and learned from Architect Andreas Heller about the museum’s planned extension. The four-member delegation accompanied by 24 • APRIL 2011

representatives of the press visited the permanent and current special exhibition.

In July, the federal government decided to subsidize the extension with approximately $2,781,280. Minister Neumann said, “I was able to convince the cabinet that the German Emigration Center is a facility of national and international significance.” The museum is “of European rank,” a “jewel in the museum landscape.” The state of Bremen is matching the federal government’s contribution, and the operating company of the German Emigration Center will contribute also. Opening is planned for spring 2012.

On May 21, the European Museum Forum (EMF) operating under the auspices of the Council of Europe, will present the European Museum of the Year Award 2011 at the Emigration Center. Four years after winning the most prestigious museum award on the European museum scene, European Museum of the Year, the German Emigration Center Bremerhaven will host this year’s EMYA awards. The judging panel has nominated 34 museums in 15 countries for this year’s award. The winner will be crowned “European Museum of the Year” and will hold the famous EMYA sculpture “The Egg” by British artist Henry Moore in their museum for one year. In addition to the representatives of the nominated museums and others, EMYA judges and members of the EMF core team, some 500 guests from all over Germany will attend the ceremony and the EMF Assembly taking place May 18–21, 2011.

German Emigration Center, www.dah-bremerhaven.de; European Museum Forum, www.europeanmuseumforum.org

AUSTIN-LEHMAN ADVENTURES INTRODUCES ELECTRIC BICYCLE OPTION ON EUROPEAN BIKING TOURS Award-winning tour operator Austin-Lehman Adventures (ALA) is charging up biking tours this year by introducing electric bicycles as an option on all of its multi-day European cycle tours.

According to Dan Austin, founder and owner, e-bikes essentially level the playing field. Couples can cycle together without fear of leaving a companion in the dust. For the first time the armchair/casual cyclist thinking of an Italy bike tour can do a challenging trip like Tuscany without fearing long ascents.

Austin-Lehman Adventures will use the latest model Diamant electric bikes with Trek Ride+™ technology. This is a lightweight aluminum frame bike with a lithium ion battery-operated motor that when engaged boosts a rider’s natural human power, enabling him/her to pedal with less effort farther and faster. When the course gets steep and a rider is ready for extra power, the rider hits a button and selects an assist level I to IV and continues pedaling. At day’s end batteries are removed and charged for tomorrow’s ride.

Those opting for an environmentally friendly e-bike option will be assessed $25 per day per e-bike on European itineraries. Plans call for adding the same service on US itineraries in the near future.

Austin-Lehman Adventures, 800-575-1540, info@austinlehman.com, www.austinlehman.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

CARIBBEAN SANDOS CARACOL ECO RESORT & SPA OPENS NEW FULLY-ECO ROOMS, FACILITIES

Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa in the Riviera Maya, Mexico, opened new eco-chic oceanfront accommodations and facilities with a launch event welcoming media, sustainable tourism officials and local government agents. Cocktails flowed and hors d’oeuvres were passed as guests arrived February 3 at the resort’s outdoor sports bar to celebrate the opening of 99 newly renovated rooms that will maintain the resort’s standard of reducing CO2 emissions by 70 percent.

Guests toured the new accommodations of luxurious green and white décor with furniture made from certified wood. Appealing to the eco-minded, the facilities feature low-energy A/C, solar water heating, LED lighting, wastewater recycling and in-room coolers.

Partygoers then gathered around the pool for a five-course meal and enjoyed a performance of Black Swan from a local ballet. Alex Ferri, Chief Operating Officer of Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa, welcomed the guests, explaining, “Sandos Caracol is a groundbreaking hotel and the first of its kind in the Riviera Maya. We are proud of what we have accomplished thus far and plan to continue to promote sustainable tourism and travel that offers families, friends and couples a unique yet educational experience.”

Sandos Caracol has also created a new BBQ Chill Out Café with a wedding gazebo on the beach, as well as a Gaucho restaurant seating up to 250 including a show cooking space. There is also a new luxury beach club and bar that will feature live music for added nighttime entertainment.

Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa was built with respect to its surround. Sediment was removed from its 16 cenotes to allow fresh water to flow freely bringing nutrients to mangroves and reefs.

Complimentary eco-educational activities including an eco tour, Magic Planet exhibit, snorkel trip, romantic canoe ride and eco workshops in the Kids Club.

Sandos Hotels & Resorts, 866-336-4083, www.sandos.com

TAMARIND BEACH HOTEL’S $80 RATE IN 2011 FOR AGENTS OFFERS GRENADINES LUXURY AT A BARGAIN Award-winning Tamarind Beach Hotel & Yacht Club on Canouan Island in St. Vincent and the Grenadines has an outstanding all-new Travel Agent 2011 Package full of flexibility and features. The firsttime offer includes all the amenities normally provided plus a com26 • APRIL 2011

plimentary island tour, giving agents a chance to explore Canouan’s dramatic landscapes and spectacular beaches. Guests will also enjoy outstanding European and creole cuisine creativity prepared daily at the resort’s two first-class restaurants. Additional day trip options are available at a charge. Guests can choose from a round of golf at the Donald Trump International Golf Club, boat trips to neighboring islands like Bequia, Union, Mustique and Mayreau and snorkeling excursions to Tobago Cays, home to hundreds of sea turtles and the setting for scenes in “Pirates of the Caribbean.”

The Travel Agent 2011 Package is available to qualified agents at an attractive rate of just $80 per room per night plus taxes and includes a complimentary airport transfer between Canouan’s airport and the hotel and an island tour. The hotel’s reservation office can also assist with making arrangements for guests who are flying first into Barbados and then need to book onward air travel to Canouan Island. The special offer is running until December 18, 2011; agents must produce currently valid agent credentials at time of reservation.

Tamarind Beach Hotel & Yacht Club, reservations@tamarind.us, www.tamarindbeachhotel.com

OYSTER BAY BEACH RESORT NAMED BY TRAVEL + LEISURE READERS AS A BEST HOTEL VALUE IN CARIBBEAN Oyster Bay Beach Resort was named one of the highest-ranking properties for value in Travel + Leisure’s list of the World’s Best Hotel Values this year.

Honorees were independently selected by T+L’s readers in the magazine’s annual World’s Best Awards survey. Travel + Leisure’s annual list, broken out by segments, includes the top best hotel values in six regions across the globe and a top 20 overall list. Oyster Bay Beach Resort was named fourth in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas category, and was the only hotel from St. Maarten included in the list.

Over the last two years, Oyster Bay Beach Resort has spent substantial capital to heighten the guest experience. In 2009, the upscale, mixed-use resort added full and fractional-ownership luxury condominiums, including a series of penthouse suites with rooftop decks and private pools. In spring of 2010, the property underwent significant room renovations and rebuilt its beachfront villas, positioning itself as a major contender on the St. Maarten resort scene.

Also in 2010, the resort’s developer Pearl Development hired Ricardo Perez, former Chief Financial Officer of the Anguilla’s world-renowned, five-star property, Cap Juluca Resort to further increase the quality of their resort experience.

As a World’s Best Hotel Values honoree, Oyster Bay Beach Resort has been featured in Travel + Leisure’s March 2011 issue, and is listed on TravelandLeisure.com.

2011 has been a banner year for Oyster Bay Beach Resort, which was also nominated just recently for an Architecture award at the American Resort Development Association’s (ARDA) convention this spring in Orlando.

Oyster Bay Beach Resort, www.oysterbaybeachresort.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

M E X I C A N C A R I B B E A N B2B

A majestic hotel that features a full range of sensations, in the birthplace of the Mayan civilization.

When the occasion calls for something unique, elegant and luxurious.

World-class golf, a spa and haute cuisine.

Over 34,000 square feet of indoor meeting space plus breathtaking outdoor event enclaves surrounded by nature.

This gated beachfront community is perfectly suited to host groups of up to 750 as intimately as any small executive gathering.

www.fairmont.com

All the marvels of the Yucatan region are open to discovery: including Chichén-Itza, Uxmal, Mayapán, Tulum, San Francisco de Campeche and Mérida.

www.hotelhaciendavistareal.com

EXCHANGE

Princess Hotels & Resorts is a hotel chain specializing in holiday and urban hotels in top class tourist resorts, which, from the start, has enjoyed the prestige, confidence and consideration of our customers.

A chain with a business philosophy and methodology in the management of large hotels.

princess-hotels.com

Overlooking the impressive Mexican Caribbean Sea and the breathtaking view of Cancun with a view of night lights from the mainland.

Picture perfect thatched roof bungalows, a sitting patio with hand made chairs and tables to take in awesome sunsets, the sea, the magnificent coastline & distant mountains.

The lush jungle like property slopes down the hillside to a tiny, gorgeous, private cove enclosed with splendid rock formations.

Playa Viva is committed to preserving the world’s delicate ecology and supporting the species, environments, cultures, traditionsand communities that make this planet worth exploring.

www.pepeshideaway.com

www.playaviva.com

The hotel lies between the beach and the Lagoon Makax, where its private luxury yacht is moored.

www.villarolandi.com

In the Heart of Playa Del Carmen

An eco-archeological park the world can enjoy the splendor of Mexico’s biodiversity and cultural heritage.

The park has been preserved with an environmental management system.

Dedicated to promote marine turtle conservation for the loggerhead and green sea turtle.

www.xcaret.com

An elegant, tropical boutique hotel features spacious and luxurious bedrooms, all individually designed with marble floors, spacious bathrooms, relaxing balconies and terraces that overlook the central patio and the ocean.

Specializing in personalizing experiences, creating that perfect atmosphere to experience the best the Mayan Riviera and all of its natural wonders have to offer.

www.illusionhotel.com

Gaze all day across the stunning white sand beach and turquoise sea to the reef breaking in the distance, and then gaze all night at the sparkling stars and moonlit waters from Mezzanine’s terraces and decks…

Set apart from other hotels, a stylish remote, romantic and laid back hotel situated right on the beach, with a swimming pool, private guest sun decks, fun beach bar and massage cabana.

www.mezzaninetulum.com

CARIBBEAN LIFESTYLE HOLIDAYS DR LAUNCHES KOSHER VACATION PROGRAM WITH KING SOLOMON VACATIONS Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Resort (LHVR), located in Puerto Plata on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic, has announced the launch of its kosher vacation program in association with King Solomon Vacations, consisting of a full kosher kitchen, two kosher restaurants with a kosher buffet and kosher a la carte menu, an orthodox synagogue and services.

The kosher kitchen and kosher restaurant operations will be under the strict rabbinical orthodox supervision, with mashgichim on site following the Kashruth Jewish Dietary Law for Glatt kosher food, Chalav Yisroel and Pas Yisroel. A variety of Sephardic, Ashkenazi, Middle Eastern and international menu items will be offered.

“We are pleased to be more diversified in our food and beverage capabilities by reaching out to this specialized group of travelers,” said Fadi Hamad, Corporate Director of Food and Beverage for Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Resort. “We are one of the few resorts in the Caribbean to actually provide a kosher vacation experience all year round.”

UNSPOILED

A leisurely swim in sparkling azure waters. A soothing massage on your own private balcony. An afternoon spent gazing at the sun-splashed Atlantic with not a cruise ship or a care in sight.

The Sands at Grace Bay

UN C O M M O N

offers a soul-satisfying tranquility along with inspired cuisine, considerate service and as much – or as little – activity as you choose.

UNPRETENTIOUS

Providenciales • Turks & Caicos

an exceptional all suite beachfront resort For reservations, see your travel professional or call 1.877.77.SANDS (72637) www.thesandstc.com 28 • APRIL 2011

King Solomon Vacations began working with Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Resort effective March 5, 2011 to offer the Lifestyle Kosher vacation experience.

Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Resort, located on Cofresi beach and with majestic mountain views, features luxury accommodations, gourmet restaurants, cafes, swimming pools, daily activities, and concierge services for destination tours. LHVR guests and their families have a wide variety of activities available to them in the Dominican Republic’s North Coast.

Next-door is the Ocean World Adventure Park with its daily animal and aquatic shows and casino. Other activities in the area include a cable car ride to the peak of Mount Isabel de Torres, white water rafting, horseback riding, deep sea fishing, boating, snorkeling, monster truck safaris and city tours of Puerto Plata, named one of the 53 best destinations in the world by The New York Times.

King Solomon Vacations, 800-963-7212, www.kingsolomonvacations.com

THERE’S STILL TIME TO SAVE BIG ON SUNNY VACATIONS THROUGHOUT THE CARIBBEAN Whether it’s a couple’s getaway, family vacation or just a simple escape with friends, there is still an array of excellent specials waiting for travelers to the Caribbean throughout 2011.

Ecologically minded Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa in Mexico has recently opened 99 luxurious ocean-view rooms maintaining their ‘green’ standards. Air conditioning uses low power consumption, water is solar heated, and interior lighting is energyefficient LED-based.

There’s an in-room water cooler to reduce the use of plastic and the hotel has added a new wastewater recycling system. All-inclusive rates start at $118 ppdo. www.sandos.com Verdanza Hotel in Puerto Rico is extending a $100 flight credit on bookings made by April 30 for travel through September 30, 2011. Each visit earns guests an air credit on any airline, any flight, from gateways nationwide.

Rates start at $125 ppdo. Located steps from turquoise blue waters in the Isla Verde tourism district, the hotel boasts 222 rooms, three restaurants and a wine bar. www.verdanzahotel.com Royal Sea Aquarium Resort in Curacao offers a five-day “Dolphin Swim” package affording vacationers the chance to swim with the dolphins or partake in two dolphin encounters at the Curacao Sea Aquarium for travel through June 11, 2011.

Offer rates start at $915 ppdo on new reservations. The resort is located on a private island with 30 ocean-view villas and an array of activities for travelers.

Resort amenities include a swimming pool, children’s pool, a private beach area and waterfront dining. www.royalseaaquarium.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

C A R I B B E A N

B 2 B E X C H A N G E

“Most Romantic Resort in the World”

Perched on the edge of the tranquil Caribbean Sea, only one mile south of the Capital city, Roseau.

TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice, 4th consecutive year

An ideal location for family and friends, divers, hikers, whale watchers, adventure seekers and those traveling to Dominica on business who want to relax after work.

Whatever your choice, our friendly and helpful team at The Anchorage awaits the pleasure of being your hosts.

Located on one of the Caribbean’s top 10 "Dream Beaches of the World", the sophisticated and stylish Bucuti and Tara Beach Suites offer Aruba's only refined and tranquil boutique resort experience.

Exchange your vows on our magnificent white sandy beach.

Booking wiindow: Now until April 30, 2011 Travel window: Now until September 30, 2011

Let us make your honeymoon a celebration that you will cherish for a lifetime...

www.anchoragehotel.dm

www.bucuti.com Eagle Beach • Aruba • Dutch Caribbean

Life is good at

both inside and out: a floodlit tennis court, fully equipped swimming pool, white sandy be ach, water sports station with windsurfing and kite surfing, motorboats, catamaran trips, library, video library…

Welcome to the Best in the West !

this little piece of paradise fe atures an elegant, Asian influenced décor, perfectly keeping with their surroundings.

www.capest.com

The island Exuma, Bahamas is full of events that remain an important part of the Island culture.

Facing the calm waters of the lagoon, the resort is surrounded in beautifully landscaped tropical grounds dotted with softly, swaying coconut trees, powdery soft sand and the warm fragrant, Caribbean Trade Winds.

The Mayagüez Resort & Casino is an independently operated, deluxe, full service hotel located in the west coast town of Mayagüez.

www.le-flamboyant.com

www.mayaguezresort.com

Awaken the senses. Rediscover romance.

Everything for the sweet life.

Nestled on a lush private peninsula, with cottage-style rooms and suites, four private beaches, an acclaimed European wellness center, the Ocean Spa, extensive marine rentals, tennis courts, a putting green, croquet and gourmet cuisine.

CLUB PEACE & PLENTY reflects this history and culture even today.

www.peaceandplenty.com

www.cambridgebeaches.com

888-689-3030

One of the top luxury destinations in the Caribbean situated on beautiful Virgin Gorda

Only reachable by boat or helicopter, located between two hills on a peninsula and set amidst three distinct bodies of water: the enormous protected lagoon of the North Sound, the open Atlantic Ocean, and the Caribbean Bay. A paradise for swimming, sailing, and snorkeling at the edge of a private white sand beach – the perfect romantic escape.

www.biras.com

CARIBBEAN CHARLES LINDO NEW DIRECTOR OF ST. EUSTATIUS TOURIST OFFICE Charles Lindo is the new Director of the St. Eustatius Tourist Office, replacing Alida Francis who took a year’s leave of absence, officially vacating her position with the St. Eustatius Development Foundation (STDF) as of December 30, 2010. She is now communication adviser at the Kingdom Department for the Dutch Caribbean (Rijksdienst Caribisch Nederland, RCN).

CHARLES LINDO Lindo has been the Foundation’s Deputy Director since January 2008 and Acting Director since February 2010. As Acting Director, he oversaw numerous trainings executed

by Product Development Manager Maya Leon-Pandt. Other highlights were the arrivals of two cruise ships, the purchase of a new vehicle for the Foundation, attending numerous trade missions, and the undertaking of marketing promotions.

Lindo has held key positions in numerous hotels in the Caribbean as well as in the United States, where he started his professional career as Manager in Development at Wyndham Garden Hotel in Pleasanton, California. He is a graduate of Johnson and Wales University and holds degrees in Food and Beverage Management, Hotel and Restaurant Management and Hospitality Administration.

Welcoming his new challenge, Lindo commented he was looking forward to working with all stakeholders in the tourism sector. He pledged to work together with his team towards the execution of plans and future endeavors of the STDF to develop the island’s tourism sector to the benefit of the island’s economical development.

St. Eustatius Tourism Development Foundation, www.statiatourism.com

AMBER DUNE RESORT + SPA CELEBRATE WHAT’S REAL TO COINCIDE WITH DOMINICAN REPUBLIC HIGH SEASON Amber Dune Resort + Spa has begun its “Celebrate What’s Real” visit, on-site preview of its first-of-kind condo hotel property offering set to open in December 2012 on the Dominican Republic’s North Shore. Early visitors have described it as “nothing short of a sensory delight,” “a sanctuary from the outside world,” and “a haven of pure tranquility and inspired beauty.”

Cabarete is considered the adventure sports capital of the Caribbean, offering world-class kiteboarding, windsurfing, mountain biking, hiking, canyoning, and white water rafting. The town’s legendary nightlife adds to the invigoration.

Amber Dune Resort + Spa will feature a full-service branded spa and wellness facility, tennis, gourmet dining, a tapas restaurant & bar, conference facilities, in-room dining, 24-hour concierge, and a children’s activity club. Technologies will include everything needed for owners and guests to experience complete convenience and connectivity.

30 • APRIL 2011

The $120-million property, designed by leading Caribbean architect Lane Pettigrew, comprises 209 suites ranging from studios to three bedrooms, and a total of 346 keys. It is located on 13.5 beachfront acres and 850 feet of shoreline. Desarrollos y Propiedades North Land, S.A. of the Dominican Republic is project developer.

The Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Tourism has recently launched an aggressive initiative to restructure the North Shore, recognizing Cabarete’s significance for its ability to attract both tourists and real estate investors alike.

Amber Dune Resort + Spa, grace.lohn@amber-dune.com, www.amber-dune.com

SUPERCLUBS’ BREEZES RIO BUENO TO CLOSE John Issa, Chairman of SuperClubs Super-Inclusive Resorts, has announced that Breezes Rio Bueno, formerly Grand Lido Braco, will close its doors April 30, 2011, after it became clear to him that “our strenuous two-year effort to arrive at a mutually satisfactory lease arrangement with the owners was not going to succeed.”

SuperClubs terminated the lease for “force majeure” but continued to operate the hotel in good faith during negotiations. “The owners had ample opportunity to secure a new operator, but it appears none has been found,” said Issa. “It is very unfortunate that we could not come to an arrangement to keep Breezes Rio Bueno open, but that is the nature of this business. Breezes Resorts are still as popular as ever, and we will be concentrating our efforts on all our resorts in Jamaica, Bahamas, Curaçao, Brazil, Panama and Cuba.”

“We deeply regret the prospect that over 300 loyal team members will lose their jobs in these harsh economic times,” he concluded.

SuperClubs took over operations at Breezes Rio Bueno in 1996.

Soon after, it received the AAA Four Diamond resort rating and became a favorite destination for vacationers who enjoyed its Jamaican village setting. The hotel was also known for its annual “Best of Jamaica” event held in partnership with Caribbean Travel and Life magazine since 2004.

SuperClubs, the world’s only Super-Inclusive resort group, includes properties in the following brand categories: Breezes Resorts–Breezes Grand Resort & Spa Negril, Breezes Runaway Bay Resort & Golf Club and Breezes Resort & Spa Trelawny in Jamaica; Breezes Bahamas; Breezes Curaçao Resort, Spa & Casino; Breezes Panama; Breezes Búzios Resort & Spa in Brazil; in Cuba, SuperClubs operates three hotels, Breezes Varadero, Breezes Jibacoa and Breezes Bella Costa; and Hedonism II in Negril and SuperFun Beach Resort & Spa in Runaway Bay, both in Jamaica.

SuperClubs holidays are Super-Inclusive—accommodations; all meals, SuperSnacks and premium brand cocktails; unlimited use of all sports facilities, including equipment rental and instruction; entertainment; weddings; recreational activities; and hotel taxes.

Tipping is not allowed. SuperClubs operates and independently markets affiliate ROOMS resorts.

SuperClubs, www.superclubs.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

CARIBBEAN DIVERS SAVE 30% THIS SUMMER AT ST. THOMAS’ BOLONGO BAY BEACH RESORT Scuba divers can take advantage of prime conditions this summer and save 30 percent with a stay and dive package from Bolongo Bay Beach Resort, which has a five-star PADI dive center on property.

Along with warmer air and sea temperatures, summer brings calmer seas and clearer visibility to the US Virgin Islands.

To take advantage of these conditions at a great value, Bolongo Bay Beach Resort is offering scuba divers a “Dive into Summer” package.

Available May 1 through August 31, 2011, this stay and dive travel package includes five nights for two people in an ocean view room; a welcome cocktail upon arrival; two six-dive passes with the St. Thomas Dive Club, a five-star PADI facility located at Bolongo Bay; complimentary scuba gear rental; and a complimentary sail on Bolongo’s own 53’ catamaran, either the Swim with Turtles half-day snorkel trip or the Sunset Harbor Cocktail cruise. The five-night dive travel package is $1,686 for two people, and includes all hotel taxes and resort fees.

When not under the sea, guests can have fun in the sun with unlimited access to complimentary non-motorized water sports equipment including Hobie Cats, windsurfers, kayaks, snorkel gear, paddle boats and more. At night, Bolongo Bay heats up with fabulous food at its two on-site oceanfront restaurants and live nightly entertainment.

Bolongo Bay Beach Resort, 800-524-4746, www.bolongobay.com

Processing of legal documentation and mailing of marriage license; Bridal bouquet and groom’s boutonniere of locally grown tropical flowers.

The package price does not include accommodations or the rehearsal dinner and reception dining so that couples may select their preferred suite, length of stay and choose from a culinary delights ranging from elegant five-course meals to laid-back beach barbeques.

Legendary Hemingway Beachfront Restaurant offers an array of catering and dining options for the rehearsal and reception dinners starting at approximately $50 pp. Add-ons offered include photography and videography services, flowers and decoration options, reception DJ and live music entertainment options, equipment, tent rentals and more.

A 50-percent deposit of $7,500 will be required at booking.

In addition to an 11-percent discount off the resort rack room rates, all guests including the bride/groom will have access to complimentary watersports equipment and bicycle rentals during their visit.

Interested couples may contact Raymond Yip or call the resort toll-free from the US. The Sands at Grace Bay, ryip@thesandstc.com, www.thesandstc.com

THE SANDS AT GRACE BAY UNVEILS 11/11/11 WEDDING OF THE DECADE PACKAGE The Sands at Grace Bay is offering an exquisite “11/11/11 Wedding of the Decade Package” on a first-reserve basis for two lucky couples looking to share their dream wedding with up to 60 members of their families and friends this November 11. Priced at $15,000 per couple (based on a party of approximately 60), the package includes the following eleven features: Elegant beach ceremony with arch, chairs, bougainvillea petals for the aisle walkway and set-up and decorations (First couple to reserve can select the 11:11 am time slot.); Private Sunset Cruise with champagne for up to 35; Afternoon/evening beach bonfire for the wedding party; Celebratory fireworks display at 11:11 pm; Bridal spa package for the bride with hair, make-up, manicure/pedicure for wedding; Personal wedding coordinator to assist in planning the dream wedding; Three-tiered wedding cake serving up to 60 plus bottle of champagne; Music (choice of sax player, flutist or guitar player) for one hour; Participation by pastor or justice of the peace; Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

The beach is so close, shoes are strictly optional.

Emerald green mountains as a backdrop. The turquoise Caribbean Sea at your feet. Could there be any place more charming than this picture perfect cove called the Grand Case Beach Club ? Two powder white beaches.

Fresh water pool. Day and night tennis.

Delightful dining. Invigorating water sports. Shopping and excursions.

Everything your heart desires.

For reservations see your travel professional or call 1-888-845-5821. www.grandcasebeachclub.com

APRIL 2011•

31

CARIBBEAN CAYMAN ISLANDS DOT APPOINTS NEW US GENERAL MANAGER – THOMAS LUDINGTON Just in time for the launch of the new Caymankind marketing campaign, the Cayman Islands’ Department of Tourism has welcomed Thomas Ludington, a top national-sales performer and veteran of the leisure travel industry, as General Manager of its US National Office.

Reporting to the DOT’s Deputy Director for International Marketing and THOMAS LUDINGTON Promotions, he will oversee the operational aspects of marketing activities in the USA. This involves directing advertising and promotion activities, Internet and direct marketing, brand management and development, research and reporting, management and development of staff, operations, administrative and financial management as well as managing US industry relations and affinity groups, wholesales and other stakeholder groups.

Ludington is joining the DOT from LibGo Travel Inc., where he served in various senior roles, the most recent being Vice President, Product USA. He also served the company as Vice President of Marketing for Hawaii, Tahiti, US West, and Ski and Director of Advertising.

Over a 32-year career, Ludington has demonstrated expertise in a wide range of marketing solutions including advertising, broadcast and print media, sports marketing, database segmentation and lead generation strategy.

His proven track record includes successes in destination marketing, managing department’s business plans, overseeing staff and developing and maintaining supplier relationships including hotel chains, car rentals and theme parks. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Seton Hall University, New Jersey.

Cayman Islands Department of Tourism, www.caymanislands.ky, www.divecayman.ky

INDULGENT PLEASURE FOR COUPLES AT BUCUTI & TARA BEACH RESORTS IN ARUBA Describing it as “artfully arranged on 14 acres of Eagle Beach,” Coastal Living magazine recently listed Aruba’s Bucuti Beach Resort with Tara Suites and Spa among the Top 10 Romantic Caribbean Retreats. A boutique-style resort designed exclusively for couples, with an adults-only policy (no guests under the age of 18), the resort enjoys utter quiet thanks to a ban on motorized water sports.

It is within walking distance of more than 20 restaurants and features rooms and suites with balconies overlooking the garden or ocean.

Couples can indulge wonderfully romantic experiences at Bucuti.

After a couples’ massage on the beach they can relax beneath the 32 • APRIL 2011

shade of a comfy palapa for two. They’ll enjoy just-caught seafood and appreciate toes-in-the-sand chic at the remarkable intimate Flying Fishbone restaurant, 20 minutes away. And they’ll be wowed with sunset when they sign up for a horseback ride along the sandy coastline at dusk.

Bucuti’s rates start at $393.

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts, www.bucuti.com; Flying Fishbone, www.flyingfishbone.com

FIFTH NIGHT FREE AT GRAND CASE BEACH CLUB A fifth night free for reservations booked and completed between June 1 and December 18, 2011, is being offered by Grand Case Beach Club, located on the ocean adjacent to St. Martin’s Grand Case village, the culinary capital of the island. It applies to all room categories and may not be used in conjunction with any other promotion.

The only date exclusions are November 23–27.

Rates single or double start at $160 per night June 1 through October 31 and $201 for November 1 through December 18, at which point through April 15 winter rates from $330 apply (approximately double the summer rate).

Prices include continental breakfast daily; use of tennis court and all non-motorized water sports equipment; and a bottle of wine on arrival.

Extensive renovation was completed in December encompassing 26 units and including everything from bathrooms to new mattresses.

The program represented an investment of over $800,000 in 2009 and about $1 million in 2010. It’s already paid off in customer satisfaction levels reported through TripAdvisor and comments from guests to GM Steve Wright and staff.

Grand Case Beach Club has earned an annual place on Expedia’s Insiders Select List, which features only about two percent of their total resort and hotel clientele.

Orbitz presented the resort its “Best In Stay” award, Caribbean Travel & Life named it one of the best medium-size hotels in the Caribbean, and the resort won Apple Vacations’ “Golden Apple” award for its fine service and hospitality.

The Grand Case Beach Club offers value entrees as well as signature dishes at the Sunset Cafe operated by Alexandre and Chantal, a husband/wife team with extensive culinary experience in Europe and the Caribbean.

There are also fitness and water sports centers; an island boutique; the Boardwalk wrapping around the hill overlooking the ocean and beach and connecting to the Sunset Cafe; and the Pavilion on top of the hill, where the weekly manager’s cocktail party is held.

Travel agents can also access the Grand Case Beach Club through GDS codes Amadeus IPSFG122, Apollo IP29999, Sabre IP11637, or Worldspan IP8194.

Grand Case Beach Club, 800-340-3016, info@gcbc.com, www.grandcasebeachclub.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

D O M I N I C A N R E P U B L I C B2B EXCHANGE Pioneers in Safari Tours in the Punta Cana Area

Located in the heart of Cabarete, the Windsurf Resort is comfortable and luxurious.

See the other side of the Dominican Republic and experience its people, culture and countryside

The second largest resort in Cabarete, it prides itself on offering all the services and amenities of a large hotel, while keeping the personal touch and intimacy of a small, family-run establishment.

www.windsurfcabarete.com

We created a program to suit everyone regardless of comfort level.

Be greeted with a dolphin ‘peck shake’ and it will not take long before experiencing the magic of a dolphin ‘kiss’.

Fun is the name of the game; however, learn facts about dolphins well tips on conservation. www.dolphinexplorer.com.do

Our aim is to show everyone what beautiful countryside we have outside the big hotels/resorts on the coast.

We have the best guides in the business to ensure that all our passengers will get the very best with us.

Almost 20 years in the car rental business, our franchise in the Dominican Republic has become one of the main car rental companies and is listed among the most successful franchises in the country.

Dollar Rent-a-Car

Dominican Republic offers exceptional service in all its locations: Santo Domingo Las Américas International Airport Cibao International Airport Bávaro

www.dollar.com.do

Leave having a better understanding about the Dominican people and their way of life!

Quality: excursions of the highest quality beyond the expectations of our clients.

Creativity: memorable and unique experiences throughcreation of original tours.

Personalized Service: hiring guides who are not only well knowledgeable of their cities but also great human beings.

Efficiency: investing heavily to build a website that works effortlessly allowing our clients to book a tour without a lot of hassle.

www.outbacksafari.com.do

www.tequiaexperiences.com

Dominicantravel.com is a website for Travel in Style an incoming travel agency.

We have operations all over the island with our main office located in the Dominican capital Santo Domingo.

We are not an internet company but a real hands on incoming travel agency with real people working to service your needs while enjoying a great vacation.

CARIBBEAN NH HOTELES, AMRESORTS SIGN STRATEGIC ALLIANCE IN DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

NH Hoteles, Spanish hotel company leader in urban hotels with presence in 25 countries, and AMResorts, the first North American hotel company in the Caribbean offering UnlimitedLuxury® vacations specializing in the luxury leisure market, have signed a strategic agreement to develop a new formula of collaboration joining commercialization, brand management and hotel management.

Their pilot plan will be implemented in two NH Hoteles properties in Playa Bávaro (Punta Cana), Dominican Republic. As of May 1, the NH Royal Beach and NH Real Arena will be operated by NH, but under AMResorts’ luxury brands Secrets Resorts & Spas and Now Resorts & Spas.

AMResorts will be responsible for providing sales, marketing and brand management services. Clients will enjoy the benefits of Secrets and Now Resorts & Spas with their signature vacation concept Unlimited-Luxury®, providing limitless access to lavish accommodations, gourmet a la carte dining, premium brands, 24hour room and concierge services, daytime activities, live evening entertainment and more.

The model opens an array of possibilities for this new strategy between two experienced companies joining their combined strengths in world-class leisure tourist destinations.

NH Hoteles, www.nh-hotels.com; AMResorts, www.amresorts.com

STILL TIME TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF WINTER BLUES DEALS AT ST. MAARTEN RESORTS Vacationers anxious for summer can take advantage of discounts at St. Maarten hotels including Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino, Princess Heights, Flamingo Beach Resort, Royal Palm Beach Resort, Oyster Bay Beach Resort, Coral Beach Club, The Westin St. Maarten Dawn Beach Resort & Spa and The Villas 34 • APRIL 2011

on Great Bay. Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino is offering couples a “Some Like It Hot” three-night romance package that includes premiere room accommodations, a three-course private dinner complete with champagne or house wine, and a couple’s massage (55-minute) at the Good Life Spa. The package starts at $420 ppdo for travel April 3 through December 17, 2011. www.sonesta.com/stmaarten Princess Heights is offering 25 percent off its nightly rates through its “Winter Promotion.” Guests can choose from luxurious accommodations in either a deluxe studio suite or a one- or two-bedroom suite. Rates start from $213 nightly per room for travel through April 30, 2011. www.princessheights.com Flamingo Beach Resort and its sister property, Royal Palm Beach Resort, are offering travelers a fourth night free for travel through May 31, 2011. On their five-day vacation in St. Maarten, travelers will indulge in an array of culinary offerings and diverse activities on land and at sea. www.diamondresorts.com Oyster Bay Beach Resort is offering an “Early Bird” promotion where guests are afforded 20 percent off rates for travel now through December 19, 2011. This offer is valid on all room categories—superior rooms, studios, deluxe lofts, oceanfront and garden-view rooms as well as one- and two-bedroom suites. Oyster Bay Beach Resort is perched on a coral reef overlooking the Caribbean ocean and Oyster Pond Marina. www.oysterbaybeachresort.com Coral Beach Club affords vacationers savings of up to 25 percent off on three-night packages for travel through April 15. Those traveling April 30 through December 15, 2011, can take advantage of a fifth and seventh night free when booking a six- or eightday stay. www.coralbeach-club.com Luxurious Westin St. Maarten Dawn Beach Resort & Spa is offering guests a free night on a seven-night minimum stay through its “Sunsational Savings” promotion. Travelers will receive a daily buffet breakfast for two and a complimentary room upgrade (based on availability upon check-in). Rates for 2011 travel start at $482 per room per night through April 30, $464 May 1 through August 1, $348 August 2 through November 20, and $464 November 21 through December 11. www.starwoodhotels.com/westin The Villas on Great Bay is affording vacationers 10 percent off travel from April through November 2011. Rates start at $150 per room per night in Garden Villa accommodations.

Surrounded by lush gardens and a pristine beach, the resort provides serenity, privacy and relaxation under the Caribbean sun. www.thevillasongreatbay.com A complete list of hotels and resorts in St. Maarten, as well as a guide to the island, including where to dine, island activities and general information can be found on the Tourist Bureau’s website.

St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, www.vacationstmaarten.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

LATIN AMERICA EL SALVADOR EMERGES AS ECO DESTINATION WITH ECOEXPERIENCIAS ‘GREEN’ PORTFOLIO For the first time online, El Salvador is “speaking the language” of international travel companies with a new centralized booking system for eco and adventure travel offered by Ecoexperiencias El Salvador on its website detailing multitudes of new itineraries in Central America’s least explored country.

Surfing the world’s best waves at dawn, mountain biking along the narrow trails of the coffee highlands at midday and kayaking the serene channels of the mangrove forests that line the Pacific Ocean are the types of day trips that make El Salvador a prime destination for thrill-seekers and outdoor lovers alike.

EcoExperiencias also recently launched a new line of seaside tours including endangered sea turtle nesting and release tours, whale watching and artisan fishing with local guides.

EcoExperiencias El Salvador has developed exciting itineraries with international tour operators such as GAP Adventures and ResponsibleTravel.com. Their staff seeks to work with adventure and ecotourism firms across the US and Europe to create unique itineraries with its growing list of well-trained inbound operators.

The innovative EcoExperiencias El Salvador business model was designed to support small-scale tour providers with the expert guidance of sustainable tourism consulting firm, EplerWood International, in cooperation with an extensive local team that has combed the countryside for the best national parks, deserted beaches, colonial villages and back-country adventures available.

EcoExperiencias upholds the international sustainable tourism standards, the Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria (GSTC), developed as part of an initiative led by Rainforest Alliance, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the United Nations Foundation, and the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

EcoExperiencias, www.ecoexperienciaselsalvador.com

waterfall, circle Arenal Volcano in a helicopter, fly through the treetops across 1.7 miles of adrenaline-rushing ziplines, go horseback riding, explore El Vernado Caverns—home to stalactites, stalagmites, underground streams and a bevy of bats, and soak in thermal hot springs.

After a day of exploring, guests can enjoy Costa Rican delights at Lost Iguana’s Blue Hibiscus Restaurant or the Palapa Bar, or visit a swim-up bar while wading in both the cool and hot freshwater pools.

For unwinding, the hotel’s Golden Gecko Spa features treatments from the Hot Stone Massage to Sauna Cocoon Wraps of volcanic clay and Body Polishes employing essential oils, sea salt and pure cane sugar. Thatched riverside bungalows with fireplaces are used for massages and special treatments. All guests have complimentary access to the spa fitness center and saunas.

Standard-room amenities include coffee service, mini bars, refrigerators, satellite TV, AC, ceiling fans, one king or two full beds and private balcony with volcano view. Luxury suites, celebrity suites and Las Casitas additionally offer separate dining and sitting areas, Jacuzzi baths and outside garden showers.

Complimentary wireless Internet service and computers are available at the reception area and club cars transport guests to any area on the property as needed.

Lost Iguana Resort & Spa, maritzalostiguana@mac.com, www.lostiguanaresort.com

COSTA RICA’S LOST IGUANA OFFERS 20% OFF THREE NIGHTS OR MORE ON ‘HIGH SEASON SPECIAL’ This April, the Lost Iguana Resort & Spa is offering those seeking an experience-rich tropical getaway 20 percent off regular rates on stays of three nights or more. The 42-room boutique hotel boasts striking views of the active Arenal volcano from each mountainside room and access to a uniquely local mix including breathtaking canopy tours and indulgent hot lava stone massage treatments. Prices start at $148 ppdo with the “High Season Special” savings for a standard deluxe room (blackout dates April 16–23).

Hidden among 120 acres of primal rainforest, Lost Iguana Resort & Spa guests enjoy an up-close look at hundreds of species of indigenous flora and fauna. An onsite wildlife guide is available to answer questions and lead strolls along the resort’s private walking trails, while the concierge can book various tours. Adventureseekers can do as The Bachelor contestants did and rappel down a Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

APRIL 2011 •

35

LATIN AMERICA ADRENALINE OPENS AT RAIN FOREST ADVENTURES COSTA RICA

Rain Forest Adventures Costa Rica Atlantic recently launched its new AdrenaLine 700-meter zip line, a gripping addition to the park’s famed eco-adventure course. The one-minute zip line packs speed and adventure, as riders soar nearly a half mile through the Costa Rica rainforest canopy. The AdrenaLine can be combined with the circuit of 10 zip-line cables, or just the last three lines for a shorter trip.

Admission is only $10.

The AdrenaLine has been built according to ACCT (Association for Challenge Course Technology) standards. Two experienced guides assist riders from adjoining platforms. Pre-course training allows for riders of all experience levels to strap in and zip away.

Rain Forest Adventure Costa Rica Atlantic’s exhilarating zip line tour takes guests flying across the magnificent Molinete River several times. The park is 50 minutes from San José on the Braulio Carrillo highway.

Rain Forest Adventures Costa Rica Atlantic, michelle@andriamitsakospr.com, www.rainforest-adventures.com

FAMILY DIVE ADVENTURES OFFERS PACKAGE OF FUN IN COSTA RICA THIS SUMMER Family Dive Adventures’ Costa Rica vacation this July will be the trip the whole family remembers forever. Guests will enjoy the beauty of the rainforest on horseback and get their adrenaline pumping while zip lining, surfing Witch’s Rock or whitewater rafting on the Tenorio River. They’ll feel the healing effects of Costa Rica’s volcanic mud and experience the exhilaration of diving and surfing.

The July 2–9 Costa Rica Eco-Adventure includes accommodations at Ocotal Beach Resort and Hotel, a five-star Dive Destination and PADI Dive Center on the Pacific coast. The location offers marvelous scuba diving, with massive schools of fish, rays, jacks, whale sharks, giant mantas, sea turtles, sharks, dolphins and many others.

With daily excursions and tours, beautiful beaches, shopping and more, non-diving adults and kids have plenty to do. They can learn Spanish, snorkel, paint or just relax while divers are diving. Along 36 • APRIL 2011

with breakfast, lunch and dinner daily and a beach barbecue, the trip includes seven nights, tours, diving, sponsor prizes and giveaways, Body Glove, ScubaPro, SeaLife, PADI and more. Full package details are available online.

The adventure is personally hosted with Margo Peyton. Marine artist Carlos Hiller fascinates guests as he demonstrates his skills at original painting.

At Ocotal Beach Resort, all rooms have amazing ocean views.

Beachfront standard rooms have a private terrace with hammock and are located in close proximity to the Rancho snack bar, swimming pool and dive shop. Bungalow Junior Suites along the cliff overlooking the bay come with an ocean or garden view, living room, bathroom with Jacuzzi, plunge pool, and private parking. A renowned signature feature is the amazing clifftop Roca Bruja Restaurant, providing a 270-degree view of the Pacific Ocean.

Kids’ programs are orchestrated with Kids Sea Camp Family Dive Adventures, dedicated to teaching kids through hands-on experiences that emphasize safety and fun.

Ocotal Beach Resort is thirty minutes from Liberia’s International Airport (LIR) and four hours from SJO International Airport.

Transfers are provided to and from Liberia only.

Family Dive Adventures, www.familydivers.com; Kids Sea Camp, kids@kidsseacamp.com

USA TODAY CITES CHAA CREEK FOR GREAT FAMILY-FRIENDLY VACATIONS USA Today recently selected Chaa Creek as one of 10 Great Places to Take the Family for Spring Break. The review, by Monica Hortobagyi, in describing the Belizean lodge, begins, “Nestled in the rainforest, this eco-friendly resort offers nature-loving families the opportunity to immerse themselves in well-preserved beauty and a different culture. Guests can focus on land-based activities, like horseback riding among Mayan ruins, or choose elements of surf and turf with the Jungle & Sea family package.”

Chaa Creek’s guest services manager Ben Awe concurs: “It is great news that USA Today confirms something we all truly believe—Chaa Creek is a great place for affordable family vacations in Belize.”

“Our Natural History Centre sparks people’s curiosity about Belize’s fascinating ecology and Maya history,” said Awe. “Families can then experience these things with lovely canoe trips down the Macal River, with nature walks or excursions to nearby Maya temples or guided tours along the Maya Medicinal Plant Trail to see firsthand the plants and herbs still used today in traditional Maya healing. Chaa Creek offers unique experiences that really make the cultural and natural history of the area come alive.

“Our friendly staff pays personal attention to guests of all ages, offering babysitting services and child-friendly jungle safaris to ensure that the whole family has fun while sharing a truly special Belize adventure. Considering that kids up to 18 stay for free and also enjoy a number of complimentary activities, the Chaa Creek experience is an affordable holiday vacation the whole family will remember.”

The Lodge at Chaa Creek, www.chaacreek.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

M E X I C O Intimate alcoves emanate the serenity and warmth of the most special place in the world: home.

When you step inside your alcove ‘alcoba’, you enter an oasis of calm that nurtures your senses and reinvigorates your physical and mental being.

B 2 B

Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Spa everything needed to enjoy the vacation of a life time!

Villa Premiere Luxury Boutique Retreat

Hacienda Hotel & Spa An Authentic Mexican Experience

las alcobas Refining the art of hospitality www.lasalcobas.com

E X C H A N G E

www.hotelesbuenaventura.com.mx

One of the finest and most unique properties on the Mexican Riviera.

The amenities of a five-star, world-class resort and more, spacious, splendidly appointed villas command spectacular views of Puerto Vallarta and the Bay of Banderas.

www.puertovallartabeachclub.com

CASA DE SIERRA NEVADA S A N M I G U E L DE A L L E N DE

A Stunningly Imagined Cabo San Lucas Luxury Hotel Oceanfront sophistication merges with fabulous amenities, setting us among the best Cabo San Lucas luxury hotels for captivating romantic escapes and unforgettable family vacations.

A tourist association that represents Haciendas, Rural Homes and Ranches and promotes the services they offer.

The opportunity to experience history with establishments unique and special and towns historic in wealth and warmth.

Dreams become realities in the

800-823-4282 www.casadorada.com

HACIENDAS AND RURAL HOMES OF JALISCO www.historichaciendainns.com

This charming Orient-Express hotel offers the ultimate Mexican experience.

Cool, leafy gardens, stone arches and traditional wooden doors surround pretty courtyards lit by lanterns as night falls.

Just step outside and you are surrounded by San Miguel de Allende’s many colors, scents and sounds.

www.casadesierranevada.com

Tradition and experience with 4-star exceptional service.

A privately owned luxury villa, condo or penthouse located on the Medano Beach, the most popular beach in Cabo San Lucas.

A splendid oceanfront complex, with all the amenities to ensure a stay in paradise will be memorable.

www.cabolaestancia.com

For business or pleasure in the cities of Guadalajara and Aguascalientes, ARANZAZU HOTEL has a service to make the stay as pleasant as possible.

Let us pamper you as you deserve.

www.aranzazu.com.mx

A stunning location between mountain and sea, an elegant building with Old Mission flavors, a state-of-the-art European style Spa, choice of fine dining experiences and subtle, sumptuous rooms add to an unforgettable trip.

A rich tapestry of Old Mission traditions, authentic lifestyles and a wealth of Mexican culture.

www.lamisionloreto.com

LATIN AMERICA GRAND VELAS RIVIERA NAYARIT NAMED IN CONDE NAST TRAVELER’S 2011 EXCLUSIVE GOLD LIST

AAA Five-Diamond Resort Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has added another prestigious award to its collection, earning a place on Conde Nast Traveler’s Gold List for 2011 in the Best Rooms category. This competitive distinction is chosen by over 25,000 readers of the luxury travel magazine based on their ratings of the top hotels of the world.

Grand Velas Rivera Nayarit accommodations, all over 1,000 square feet with large terraces offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Banderas, the majestic Sierra Madre Mountain Range and the resort’s impeccable tropical landscaping and three-tiered infinity pools, rank among the top hotels in North America. Imported teak furniture from Bali graces the sleeping and living areas, and luxury bath amenities are found in the spacious baths, many of which feature interior Jacuzzis and areas to receive in-suite spa treatments. Each room is equipped with flat-screen televisions, DVD players, robes and slippers and a daily-stocked all-inclusive Minibar. The beds feature the finest linens and white goose down comforters, and a deluxe pillow menu is provided.

Grand Velas Rivera Nayarit, 888-261-8436, www.vallarta.grandvelas.com

NATURE MEETS LUXURY AT THE GRAND BLISS IN NUEVO VALLARTA Grupo Vidanta has announced the opening of its newest five-star luxury resort, The Grand Bliss, in Nuevo Vallarta. The latest in a collection of six distinctive resorts from Grupo Vidanta, The Grand Bliss Nuevo Vallarta will feature 168 expansive suites along with all of the luxury amenities expected from a Grupo Vidanta property.

Located in the heart of the Nuevo Vallarta Master Plan, The Grand Bliss is a chic, upper-end resort designed to meet the needs of the sophisticated traveler in Mexico.

“Our goal from the outset was to create a destination that was different from other choices travelers have,” says Eric DuBaele, General Manager of The Grand Bliss. “We think the end result is 38 • APRIL 2011

wildly successful in that regard.”

Signature features include plunge pools on suite terraces, nearby acres of swimming pools including a wave pool and lazy river, a fivestar kids club, a full-service luxury spa and fitness center and an 18hole Nicklaus-designed golf course walking distance from the entrance. Also just steps away, guests at The Grand Bliss will enjoy cuisine at six different restaurants within the resort master plan ranging from Asian fusion to northern Italian, some alfresco and others more formal for fine dining.

Just moments from the airport, The Grand Bliss resort enjoys one of the best locations in all of Nuevo Vallarta. The Grand Bliss is in the heart of Banderas Bay, with a full mile of beachfront access.

Michel Beuffe, Grupo Vidanta’s Chief Operating Officer, summarized it as “a culmination of a unique concept that seeks to combine luxury travel within a harmonious, natural, indigenous setting.”

Guests are shuttled in electric resort carts within the resort. The entire expanse of the property contains a number of resorts, over seven acres of gorgeous pools, a golf course and many long walkways surrounded by beautiful landscaping that rise to a canopy of palm trees. Man-made lakes totaling over 25 acres throughout The Grand Bliss help simulate the flora and fauna along with the proximity of the Ameca River.

The Grand Bliss, www.thegrandbliss.com; Grupo Vidanta, www.grupovidanta.com

MEXITOURS REVEALS KNOWLEDGE OF MÉXICO’S PROUD GIFTS FOR TRAVELERS Those traveling to Mexico for sun, sand and luxury will be pleased to learn it has many other gifts, spanning areas of interest from well-preserved history to accomplishments in sports and theater.

Mexitours, a provider of quality tours in this country of surprising firsts, asks, for example: “Do you know…?”

The City of Mexico is the city with the greatest number of museums in the world; Mexico City is the oldest on the American continent, founded in 1325; UNESCO has declared the Historic Center of Mexico City and Xochimilco as Cultural Patrimony of Humanity; The Castle of Chapultepec is uniquely constructed in the Americas; The Guadalupe Basilica is the sanctuary most visited—with 14 millions pilgrims a year, and the catholic temple second most visited in the world; The City of Mexico is fourth in number of theaters preceded only by New York, London and Toronto; The Zocalo is the first plaza of the Hispanic world and third in size worldwide; Mexico City was the site of the XIX Olympic games in 1968 and two World Cup finals in 1970 and 1986.

Mexico continues to enchant visitors with its variety of accomplishments, proud heritage, natural bounty, mystery and more. Visitors can learn it all when they enjoy a fun- and fact-filled tour constructed by the knowledgeable experts at Mexitours.

Mexitours, mexitours@mexitours.com.mx, www.mexitours.com.mx www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

LATIN AMERICA METROPOLITAN TOURING’S ‘SPIRIT OF THE ANDES’ WILL RIDE THE RAILS IN ECUADOR

Spirit of the Andes programs are offered on private or shared basis, with itineraries of four or three days.

Those interested can see a teaser of the Spirit of the Andes at Vimeo online.

Metropolitan Touring, www.metropolitan-touring.com; www.vimeo.com/20077218 (Spirit of the Andes video)

RED MANGROVE GALAPAGOS AND ECUADOR LODGES ANNOUNCES FALL PROGRAMS

Metropolitan Touring has launched a new itinerary through the Ecuadorian Andes that includes the famous “Devil’s Nose” section of track—one of the most difficult engineering feats in history and one of the most dramatic railways in the world. The “Spirit of the Andes” promises a four-day/three-night journey to the heart of the Andean world, through the region’s history, spirituality, cuisine, customs, traditions and legends.

The inspiring scenery of the Ecuadorian Andes, including the highland moorlands of Cotopaxi National Park and visits to 300year old haciendas, is now complete with the addition of the thrilling train ride along the famous zigzag of the Devil’s Nose. The Ecuadorian Railways Company (EFE) has invested millions of dollars in track, rolling stock and station infrastructure over the last years, making the experience of riding the rails in Ecuador a fun, safe and exciting experience for all.

“Metropolitan Touring is delighted to be able to include various rides on the rails in their portfolio of tours,” says the company’s President, Paulina Burbano de Lara. “These include the Spirit of the Andes, Quito to Cotopaxi National Park, and a ride from the coastal city of Guayaquil.”

Guests board the train on day three of their journey. Before that, they visit the Cotopaxi National Park, lunch in a historic hacienda, visit a rose farm and overnight near the Tungurahua Volcano. The next day, they pass through the friendly town of Baños and nearby roaring waterfalls, then coil up the Andes to where herds of wild vicuñas roam at the foot of imposing Chimborazo Volcano.

Following the train ride, guests wind south through fertile hills and mountains to explore the Inca ruins of Ingapirca, and arrive at Cuenca, Ecuador’s most beautiful city and a World Cultural Heritage Site.

The fourth day is spent discovering the charms of Cuenca with its rivers, churches, museums, squares, courteous citizens and (misnamed) Panama hat workshops.

40 • APRIL 2011

Hernan Rodas, visionary founder and owner of Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges, cites special features of September/October travel in Ecuador. Cooler, dryer air and lower water temperatures make for good sightings of sea lions with pups while snorkeling and diving. Manta ray congregate for plankton that arrives on colder currents. Giant tortoises are still nesting and laying eggs, Galapagos penguins are friskier than usual while hammerhead sharks school in greater numbers.

Most species of sea birds are active at their nesting sites providing prime viewing. And off the mainland coast in a region called Ruta del Sol it’s high season for both surfing and humpback whale encounters.

Temperatures in the high 60s to mid-70s stimulate efforts to climb and trek, activities that might seem daunting when it’s hot or wet, plus it’s a great time to surf mainland beaches, Rodas noted, adding that there’s more lodging inventory, fewer people at popular sites and throughout the country and off-peak pricing in restaurants and shops.

Galapagos: Land & Sea Dive Adventure is a six-day/five-night package from $2,300 ppdo for the novice to intermediate diver with up to eight two-tank dives along with interpretive nature hikes, snorkeling and off-time lounging on the beach or exploring Puerto Villamil.

Red Mangrove Dive Center provides all equipment except dive computers that can be rented.

Five-day/four-night Mainland Ecuador: Ruta del Sol Adventure, priced from $880 ppdo, allows nature lovers to explore forests, snorkel coral reefs, observe bird species and swim and surf in warm waters off isolated beaches. Guests stay at the 11-room Red Mangrove Samai Lodge, a relaxing jungle inn and wellness spa.

Galapagos/Mainland Combo: Extraordinary Ecuador is a twelveday/eleven-night comprehensive package combining quality time on three Galapagos Islands and mainland Pacific beaches. Rates, from $4,300 ppdo, include accommodations, most meals, Englishspeaking naturalist-guides, all domestic flights from start to finish, airport and ferry transfers, all required gear and service charge.

There is a 25-percent discount for children under 10 years old.

Departures may be scheduled year-round.

In the islands guests stay at the company’s eco lodges and in other locations boutique hotels and jungle lodges.

Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges, 888-254-3190, www.redmangrove.com/contact-us, www.redmangrove.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

LATIN AMERICA EXPLORA APPOINTS JESÚS PARRILLA AS GENERAL MANAGER

LAN AIRLINES AND US AIRLINE JETBLUE SIGN INTERLINE AGREEMENT

Explora has announced the appointment of Jesús Parrilla as General Manager.

Parrilla, who heretofore has served with distinction as Commercial Vice President, assumed his new position February 7. He replaces Josef Stirnimann, who will move into the strategic role of Vice President of Special Projects at Corpora, the holding company of explora.

The positions offer satisfying challenges JESÚS PARRILLA for both appointees. As General Manager, Parrilla will oversee all operations for explora, including destinations in Patagonia, the Atacama Desert and Rapa Nui, as well as explora Travesias.

Given the swiftness of his appointment, he will continue to head commercial efforts for the company on an interim basis, with special focus on customer outreach along with his new responsibilities.

An experienced airline catering and commodities trading executive, Parilla holds a BA in International Business from St. Mary’s University of San Antonio and an International MBA with a concentration on marketing from the University of Memphis.

Having met all of explora’s objectives in his four years as General Manager, Stirnimann will become Vice President of Special Projects for Corpora with an eye toward leading and providing support on key initiatives for the parent company. explora, info@explora.com, www.explora.com

LAN Airlines S.A. and its affiliates Lan Perú, Lan Argentina and Lan Ecuador have signed a bilateral interline agreement with the US airline JetBlue Airways. Customers using LAN’s interline network of destinations will gain access to a greater number of routes and connections, throughout the different routes offered by this lowcost North American airline. The interline agreement will allow LAN passengers access to up to 55 cities across the United States, Latin America and Caribbean. Passengers will also be able to connect to JetBlue’s international routes. This is in addition to the more than 70 international destinations already offered by LAN Airlines and its affiliates.

Visitors from North America and the Caribbean will enjoy a greater flexibility to access LAN Airlines and its affiliates’ unrivaled network of tourism destination in South America, including Cuzco, Easter Island, Foz de Iguazú (Igauzu Falls) and the Patagonia regions of Chile and Argentina.

JetBlue features unlimited free snacks and drinks, a choice of 36 free live TV channels at each seat, and more than 100 channels of satellite radio. LAN Airlines and its affiliates offer a similar experience with on-demand entertainment system that offers 43 movies a month, 50 TV series and 800 music albums to choose from.

LAN Airlines, www.lan.com, www.oneworldalliance.com; JetBlue Airways, 800-538-2583, www.jetblue.com

SUSTAINABLETRIP.ORG NAMES YACUMA ECOLODGE A ‘MAKING A DIFFERENCE’ WINNER Yacuma Ecolodge was the recipient of SustainableTrip.org’s Making a Difference Award for February this year. Each month, the SustainableTrip.org editors carefully select one tourism business that is making outstanding efforts to conserve natural resources and improve livelihoods in local communities. Yacuma Ecolodge stood out for its work with the Chontayacu rainforest community, and particularly its involvement with the Chontayacu indigenous community school.

The Ecolodge is featured on the home page in the Making a Difference box for one month. There is also a permanent box on the right hand side of their ST profile identifying the business as a Making a Difference winner, and they are featured on the Making a Difference archive page. The organization also promotes the winner on the ST.org Facebook page by featuring them on their Destinations tab.

Rainforest Alliance, www.rainforest-alliance.org, www.sustainabletrip.org, www.eco-index.org; Yakuma Ecolodge, www.yacuma-lodge.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

APRIL 2011 •

41

LATIN AMERICA TRAVEL ECUADOR ENTERS NORTH AMERICAN TRAVEL MARKET

Mantaraya Lodge is implementing works to maintain and improve the infrastructure of the hotel. This will give a totally new look to the Lodge where not only new colors and decorations are in progress, but other changes as well that will make the customer experience even better.

Among the main works planned are new ceramic for the terrace, pool and trails; wood and glass gazebo implementation for the bar and restaurant as well as terraces in rooms 1, 2, 9, 10, 13, and 15; a little spa, with massage area and Jacuzzi; air conditioner and new furniture for the bar; bigger windows in the dining room; total reconstruction of the auditorium; new bathroom decoration improvements in all rooms including ceramic for walls and floor; and air conditioner, new doors and furniture in all rooms.

The refurbishment is in progress and near completion.

Mantaraya Lodge, Advantage Travel, info@advantagecuador.com, www.mantarayalodge.com

Quito-based tour operator Travel Ecuador, a member of South American adventure travel group South Expeditions, has announced that they are seeking new tour operators in North America to join their distribution network. Due to recent growth and success, Travel Ecuador is ready to expand beyond their current base of partners by offering custom built, exclusive travel experiences to new distribution partners.

Travel Ecuador and its founder Juan Rodriguez have been building custom adventures for their distribution partners since 1993.

Travel Ecuador keeps a tight focus on finding the absolute best experiences in Ecuador and shaping them into one-of-a-kind itineraries that their partners can proudly and confidently offer to their clientele. Travel Ecuador prides itself on being able to offer unique experiences like visits to Ecuador’s famous Indian markets, hiking through the beautiful Ecuadorian Highlands, and homestays at some of Ecuador’s most spectacular colonial haciendas.

No experience is outside the company’s expertise, be it trekking through the Andes, exploring the Amazon Rainforest, relaxing on Ecuador’s beautiful Pacific beaches, touring the beautiful colonial towns or experiencing the wondrous Galapagos islands. Travel Ecuador welcomes inquiries from potential partners and is able to craft the perfect Ecuadorian experience for any client type.

South Expeditions is a travel group with over 18 years of experience arranging a wide array of high-end customized trips and excursions for individuals, families and groups in Latin America. Their three companies, Travel Ecuador, Chile Expeditions and Galapagos Endurance are committed to designing unique experiences that create lasting memories for guests.

Travel Ecuador, www.travelecuador.com

ENCHANTED EXPEDITIONS DELIVERS MEMORABLE VACATIONS IN GALAPAGOS ABOARD BELUGA

ADVANTAGE TRAVEL PROMOTES SOUTH AMERICA, REFURBISHING MANTARAYA LODGE Mantaraya Lodge, owned by Advantage Travel, will be totally refurbished this year. Always thinking about client comfort, 42 • APRIL 2011

Lying 600 miles in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands remain today as they have always been—pristine, undisturbed and amazing, more than 200 years since they were discovered.

A visit to these unique islands with Enchanted Expeditions will be a fascinating, once-in-a-lifetime event unveiling the mysteries of evolution. All the wonders of Galapagos are combined with the comfort and first-class service of the company’s motor yacht Beluga in an unforgettable eight-day/seven-night trip around the main islands of the archipelago.

Enchanted Expeditions (formerly Angermeyer’s Enchanted Expeditions) will customize a tour according to the traveler’s main interests and priorities. Early Bird Special rates are available on certain departures aboard Beluga, now completely renovated to offer the highest standards of comfort and service that Galapagos visitors can expect.

This first-class yacht is also equipped with the most modern safety systems. Those eager to grab this incredible opportunity should hasten to reserve the last available cabins.

Motor yacht Beluga accommodates 16 passengers in eight double cabins (four lower/lower berths, two matrimonial beds and two lower/lower berths that can be joined to create matrimonial options).

Cabin 1 has three beds (two lower and one upper), each with private bathrooms equipped with hot and cold-water showers, fully air conditioned, spacious social areas with all the comfort and facilities of a superior first-class motor yacht, and panoramic windows in the salon/dining area.

Travelers can enjoy time aboard on the spacious sun deck or relax in the shade on the top deck while cruising between islands.

Enchanted Expeditions, www.enchantedexpeditions.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

Bringing the Americas Together www.sata-usa.com

One of Brazilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most quality-conscious incoming tour operators, handling various client needs for individual and group arrangements.

The tango can be debated, and we have debates over it, but it still encloses, as does all that which is truthful, a secret. ~ JORGE LUIS BORGES An American, European and Argentinean partnership with an objective to provide the best Tango Holiday to our clients.

Beginning with a focus on individual and group Tango Lessons, milongas, transfers, accommodations, Buenos Aires and travel around Argentina, we gradually expanded into providing complete Buenos Aires and Argentina Tours.

Taylor-made itineraries, including hotels, cruises along the Amazon River, theme parties, restaurants selections, multilingual guides and much more â&#x20AC;&#x201C; giving special touches to all travelers.

www.adwbrasil.com.br

An independent Destination Management Company specializing in opening up the range of unique travel experiences for new and returning visitors to Argentina, whatever their age and interests.

www.atpdmc.com

A sophisticated Resort in an ecological sanctuary surrounded by the Atlantic Forest, one of the largest biodiversities in the planet.

On the peninsula where there was only a native village, Kiaroa offers lodging, a Spa, gourmet gastronomy and pleasant activities surrounded by luxury, comfort and privacy.

www.argentinatango.com

We offer our customers, partners and friends, new perspectives and a perfect combination of unforgettable holidays and excellent returns.

Commitment, professionalism and quality services are key factors underpinning corporate credibility and ensuring success in the incoming travel and tourism industry.

We proudly affirm that the countless satisfied customers with whom we have worked all these years prove our dedication, efficiency and creative flair.

www.globalhotels.com.co

www.vbktravel.com.br

In response to the interest in Uruguay as the destination place for incentive groups and important congresses.

We have developed professionally as one of the best-known DMCs in our country.

We have developed a large variety of successful programs. Our exclusive proposals are carefully thought out for each company to motivate success.

We have the largest assortment of tours running to Patagonia, Argentina.

We focus our efforts on providing clients with highly-customized and packaged expeditions across Patagonia.

Patagonia Calling is a holding of Arauquen S.R.L. and has offices in Neuquen, Argentina

www.kiaroa.com.br

www.uruguaydestination.com.uy

www.patagoniacalling.com

PACIFIC ASIA AIR-INCLUSIVE INDIA’S GOLDEN TRIANGLE FROM $1499 WITH EXOTIC JOURNEYS

Exotic Journeys is offering an air inclusive nine-day promotional tour of India’s Golden Triangle; Delhi–Agra–Jaipur, at a highly competitive price of $1,499 pp. Taxes are extra. The price includes airfare in economy class from New York and Chicago on Air India’s nonstop flights to Delhi, private escorted airport transfers, five- and four-star hotels in Delhi (two nights at The Lalit or Shangri La), Agra (two nights at Clark Shiraz) and Jaipur (two nights at Clark Amer or Ramada), daily full American breakfast, private and escorted comprehensive city tours and excursions, entrance fee to monuments, services of private English-speaking guide and all transportation by air-conditioned cars and coaches. Several departures have been scheduled from April to September, 2011.

Extension to Kathmandu and world-famous Chitwan National Park, Nepal are available.

Upgrade to business class travel on international flights is $2,700 (published business class airfare is $ 3,670 plus taxes by Air India).

Exotic Journeys offers luxury and deluxe group and custom-designed private tours to India, Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Korea and Egypt. A large selection of tour packages can be found online at their website.

Exotic Journeys, 800-55-INDIA (554-6342), info@exoticjourneys.com, www.exoticjourneys.com

KUALA LUMPUR IN TOP 5 RANKING FOR HIGHEST TOURIST ARRIVALS Kuala Lumpur ranked fifth in Euromonitor International’s recent report on Top City Destination Ranking 2009, ahead of such popular destinations such as Paris, Hong, Kong, New York City and Dubai. The city recorded 9,400,000 tourist arrivals in 2009.

The report showed that while total arrivals to 100 of the world’s cities fell by 3.5 percent due to the global economic crisis, Kuala Lumpur recorded an increase of 5.2 percent in tourist arrivals com44 • APRIL 2011

pared to the previous year.

In its report, Euromonitor International expects cities in emerging markets to continue to steal a share of global arrivals, especially in Asia Pacific and the Middle East and Africa. This shift will be accelerated by the expansion of low-cost carriers and rising middle classes traveling in greater numbers, especially intra-regionally.

Cities serving as main airport hubs are expected to benefit from this regional movement, namely São Paulo, Johannesburg and Kuala Lumpur.

In explaining its research methodology, Euromonitor International defined “international tourists” as any person visiting another country for at least 24 hours, for a period not exceeding 12 months, and staying in collective or private accommodation. Each arrival is counted separately and includes people traveling more than once a year and people visiting several countries during one holiday. Domestic visitors were excluded.

More information on the report is available online.

Tourism Malaysia, www.tourismmalaysiany.com, www.tourismmalaysia.ca, www.tourismmalaysiausa.com; (report) www.euromonitor.com/Euromonitor_Internationals_ Top_City_Destination_Ranking

KCH TRAVEL PORTFOLIO IS NEW REPRESENTATIVE FOR EASIA TRAVEL KCH Travel portfolio has welcomed its newest partner, Easia Travel, offering adventure and specialty travel in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.

At the time KCH Travel Portfolio begins to represent Easia Travel, Vietnam has been named the #1 emerging destination for 2011 by Virtuoso’s prestigious Luxe Report.

Easia Travel is dedicated to the travel agent community, selling only through travel agents and tour operators. Established in 2000, much of their success has been in the European market.

They have chosen KCH Travel Portfolio to represent them in the US and Canada.

Easia Travel offers in-country experts based in Hanoi and maintains five regional offices in Indochina. Easia hosts more than 11,000 guests annually, and is fully licensed and insured in all countries where they operate.

Easia Travel designs themed and experiential travel options for all interests, including the chance to visit several UNESCO World Heritage Sites in one trip. Special themes include architecture and art; cooking classes; soft adventures such as hiking, trekking, biking, and kayaking; and private introductions to artists, historians, and specialty craftsmen. Charming Vietnam (12 days/11 nights) highlights Hanoi, Ha Long Bay (junk cruise), Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An, and Saigon, and starts at $2,990 pp, land only (15-percent commission to travel agents).

Ease of travel, authentic experiences, local support, and insider knowledge are easily attainable through Easia.

KCH Travel Portfolio, www.kchportfolio.com; Easia Travel, www.easia-travel.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

BOOK

PACIFIC ASIA WITH THE FOLLOWING DESTINATION SPECIALISTS

Ƈ Fully Escorted Vacations with Air Ƈ NEW Private Plane & Cruisetours Ƈ Independent Vacations & Sightseeing

1800 290 8687 www.aptouring.com Showing travelers around our homelands for over 80 years

Our tours are packed with inclusions to make sure you get even more value than doing a similar trip on your own:

We arrange discounts and deals for you before you go and along the way.

You'll know exactly what you get for your money, so you can plan your trip to match your budget.

The only surprises you'll find are our ‘Hidden Gems’ – a range of extra special, ‘off-the-itinerary’ stops and experiences along the way.

www.aatkings.com

China, the land of legends, architectural w onders and diverse landscapes, is a country w ith one of the w orld’s longest histories. Over the centuries it has produced cultural masterpieces that have fascinated the rest of the w orld.

Come and join your family and friends on this extraordinary journey as you learn, share and are inspired!

www.bestchinatour.com

JTB USA, Inc., a US subsidiary of JTB Corp., has grown from a travel information service bureau for Japanese travelers to the U.S. to a full-service travel management company.

We provides global travel management services for business and leisure travelers in the U.S. markets.

Travelers appreciate JTB USA’s superior service capabilities in all areas of the world.

www.jtbusa.com

www.panoramaholidays.com

Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

C&H International offers competitive net and commissionable fares.

We aspire to make a positive difference in our industry as well as striving to exceed the expectations of our clients.

www.cnhintl.com

‘Incredible India’ is a country of vibrant colors and therefore, whenever you think of heart warming colors, think of The Luxury Holidays and The Luxury Trains – your partners to service the customers who deserve nothing but ‘The Best’. www.theluxuryholidays.com Specialists in the art of tailoring travel to Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

We are passionate about our corner of the world and the diverse range of experiences it has to offer.

Opening the Whole World to You! We realize that every traveler is unique and has different interests and expectations.

Our friendly, professional staff works with you to design your ideal vacation.

Whatever your dream vacation is, whether adventure orientated, such as scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef, or trekking through New Zealand’s luxuriant green forests or discovering the great Australian Outback on a camping safari.

Our mission is be the leading travel consolidator providing exceptional, competitive fares and unsurpassed customer service to best serve the needs of our customers.

There’s nothing like Australia.

Aberdeen Tours has established a solid reputation among travelers and travel agents as being well-capitalized and protected, as well as being committed to meeting the highest standards of value and quality inour tour programs.

Vibrant Sydney; Melbourne – the sporting capital; the wildlife of Kangaroo Island; the Outback; Tasmania; southern & northern Queensland; the top End and the Great Barrier Reef. There is something for everyone.

www.aberdeentours.com

www.aspiredownunder.com APRIL 2011 •

45

PACIFIC ASIA ADVENTURESMITH EXPLORATIONS EXPANDS AUSTRALIAN ITINERARIES THANKS TO FLEET OF THREE SMALL EXPEDITION VESSELS

ers with a network of grassroots and global nonprofit partners worldwide including the Alaska Natural History Association, Neotropica Foundation and Galapagos Conservancy. The company was named by National Geographic Adventure as one of “The Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” and is the recipient of Conde Nast Traveler’s prestigious “World Savers Award.”

AdventureSmith Explorations, 800-728-2875, travel@adventuresmithexplorations.com, www.adventuresmithexplorations.com

SELECT APT DEPARTURES EARN SAVINGS OF $1,459 PER COUPLE

Cruise broker AdventureSmith Explorations, a company securing matches between adventure-seeking clients and a treasure trove of small, expedition ships, has announced re-configured Australia cruise itineraries made possible by a fleet of three small ships carrying only 46 (Coral Princess), 50 (Coral Princess II) and 72 (Oceanic Discover) passengers. Their sizes mean that the ships can maneuver hard-to-reach points of interest such as the Great Barrier Reef that larger vessels can’t.

For example, an eight-day Great Barrier Reef small ship cruise aboard Coral Princess is the “most popular and most comprehensive Great Barrier Reef cruise available in Australia,” combining the lore of discoverer Captain Cook with the intrigue of the reef itself. Guests rub elbows with marine biologists and snorkel and dive nearly at whim. Rates are from approximately $2,842 ppdo, representing “one of the best values in cruise vacations to be found anywhere in the world,” according to AdventureSmith Explorations.

Departures from Townsville and Cairns are weekly year-round.

Small ship cruising in Australia is up according to Smith and 2011 is promising to be a banner year.

“According to Tourism Australia, it continues to be one of the hottest destinations in the world with 2010 visitors increasing by six percent over 2009. One of the hottest trends seen, Australia small ship cruise business has increased an impressive 30 percent each year for the past two years. Tourism Australia anticipates an even larger increase in 2011,” said Smith.

Smith said that the fleet makes available Explorer, an awningdraped aluminum excursion vessel used for landings and extensive exploration of King George Falls and secluded rivers.

Another cruise adventure accesses the Kimberley, a region on the northwest side of Australia bordering the Indian Ocean. An 11-day cruise is priced from approximately $7,042 ppdo. The cruise aboard Coral Princess II or Oceanic Discoverer begins from the frontier towns of either Darwin or Broome and makes extensive use of Explorer on forays along the Outback.

AdventureSmith Explorations’ gives back to individuals, communities and environments touched by their trips by connecting travel46 • APRIL 2011

Australian Pacific Touring is offering savings of $1,459 per couple on the May 8 and June 26, 2011, departures of their most popular land and air Fully Escorted tours, the 21-day Royal Escorted and the 24-day Southern Explorer. Vacationers will discover the beauty of New Zealand, the Great Barrier Reef, Outback and cosmopolitan cities of Sydney and Melbourne in Australia and more, on a fully-inclusive trip full of quality experiences and activities along with quality hotels throughout.

The Pier One Sebel is right under the Sydney Harbour Bridge, offering a unique stay. The Shangri-La is arguably one of the finest hotels in all of Cairns. The Sofitel on Collins is located at the “Paris End” of Melbourne City. In New Zealand APT stays at ecologically fascinating Te Wanoui at Franz Josef. A homestay is offered in Rotorua, amazingly popular and a fun experience for US clients.

The Hermitage Hotel is an icon in the Mt. Cook National Park with guaranteed-view rooms of the alpine area and New Zealand’s highest mountain.

Experiences include the Colonial Tramcar Dinner in Melbourne— a four-course, silver-service dinner on an old reconstructed tram car, elegant dining and fun-filled four-hour sightseeing, Uluru (Ayers Rock) the world-famous Sounds of Silence dinner, dining under the stars in the great Australian Outback, enjoying some of Australia’s finest outback culinary delights. In Cairns, there’s a full-day Kuranda Scenic Railway, Aboriginal content and Skyrail Cable Railway. APT has exclusive ‘Freedom of Choice Dining’ in Queenstown (alpine gem of the south island) with a choice of 15 different dining experiences—among them the Skyline Gondola restaurant overlooking Queenstown and the TSS Earnslaw lake boat experience to Walter Peak Station. The other 13 are fantastic, recognized restaurants. Clients are free to dine at whatever time they want.

The offer is valid for new bookings through May 31, 2011; savings must be asked for at time of booking. No other discounts apply; offer is subject to availability. Departures are guaranteed. Full terms and conditions are explained in Australian Pacific 2011/12 brochures.

APT is family owned and operated since 1926, and has membership in USTOA. Australian Pacific Touring (APT Group), 800-290-8687, reservations@aptouring.com, www.aptouring.com, www.connections.travel www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

PACIFIC ASIA

B2B EXCHANGE

For more information, please contact Tourism Malaysia New York Tel: 212 754 1113 or email : mtpb@aol.com

Over the years, Buffalo Tours has pioneered new destinations and experiences and continues to do so today.

We consistently push the boundaries by creating unique and authentic travel options and innovative itineraries.

www.buffalotours.com

With Norda Expeditions and Travels, the ambiance throughout your stay with us will be one of total relaxation – wherever you stay – you can be sure of a warm and welcoming reception.

Be our guest for an authentic and exotic visit to Bhutan for a truly memorable visit.

We des ign & manage beautiful, beyond eco-luxury res ort communities along the Spice Routes , ins pired by the Age of Dis covery.

Unique amongst the Pacific and still the most authentic in her scenery and original in her culture.

A Cacao Res ort community is wonderfully-evolved boutique luxury, hype-free and s ubtly rebellious .

www.cacaores orts .com

We organize active, ecological, sports and cognitive travel for foreign tourists to the entire region of the Ural Mountains, (central part of Russia), across Russia from south to north.

We want to project a positive image of the Urals region abroad as a unique, natural, historical, ethnographic and tourist attraction.

We look forward to seeing you in Bhutan!

www.bhutannorda.com

Our views of the Kingdom of Tonga are quite unique - we are her offspring, born into a paradise but unaware of her beauty nor appreciative of what she offers.

www.welcome-ural.ru

Connect you to Polynesia’s only Kingdom... pack your bags and we’ll do the rest.

GATEWAY TO PARADISE TOURS & TRAVEL

www.gateway-to-paradise.com

The launch of Indian Routes by the Select Group marks the coming together of India’s top Travel Specialists with a collective experience of over a hundred years in inbound tourism in the Indian Subcontinent.

We offer our guests superb care and attention, years of expertise, and privileged access to enriching experiences.

www.indian-routes.in