Middle East & North Africa
APRIL 1 | 2013 ISSUE 251
UPDATE
A gateway of opportunity
CYPRUS
The island presents itself as a supreme destination VIEW Page 19
ANALYSIS EXHIBITIONS
Explore the essential platforms of the industry VIEW Page 24
SPOTLIGHT GREECE
Forging into 2013 with added vigour and focus VIEW Page 26
DESTINATION KSA, PAGE 12
Read online...
CONTENTS
A LETTER FROM...
> YOUR GUIDE
Exciting times ahead
02 News Regional and international news from the travel trade industry. 04 Exhibition Calendar A breakdown of the industry's important events and exhibitions. 11 Technology The industry gears up for further technological and mobile advancements. 12 Destination Not just a hub for religious tourism, Saudi Arabia looks to its cities for growth.
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s the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2013 swiftly approaches, I can't help but feel excitement about my very first visit to the mammoth trade show and my first travel opportunity outside of Europe. I cannot wait to be welcomed by the glowing heat, the warm Arabian hospitality and the stunning surroundings, and I most definitely cannot wait to try some Middle Eastern delicacies. As a journalist I am looking forward to meeting all of you travel trade professionals exhibiting at the show. My colleague, Natalie Hami, and I will be more than happy to drop by, say hello and exchange business cards, as networking is of course a vital factor of the show. If you do see us please do not hesitate to approach us. Yes, we will be rushed off our feet, but we will make time for anyone who is willing to talk to us. I am also pleased to inform you that the TTG team will be exhibiting on stand UAE 2500, so feel free to drop by and say hello in person and find out firsthand about our recent developments and digital opportunities. The TTG editorial and sales teams are gearing up for our biggest issue of the year – May 1 – and the offices are filling to the brim with positive energy and a hyperactive buzz. With the team working like clockwork, we expect that our May 1 issue will live up to its expectations, with the wide variety of information that we are receiving on a daily basis. I have been part of the TTG team for over six months now, and now, with my better understanding of the regions and what they have to offer, I can confidently say that I am ready to tackle ATM and all that the industry has to offer. More recently, ITB Berlin was deemed a success by the whole of the TTG team who attended the event. They came back with a positive attitude and a smile on their faces, reporting that the event was action packed and that Berlin welcomed them with better weather than the previous year. As for our April 1 issue; our destination report focuses on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the diversifying tourism sector. Also featured are informative reports on Cyprus, the UK, Exhibitions and Greece, as well as our permanent, standalone features.
22 On Location Still buzzing from its success in 2012, the UK looks ahead for a prosperous and successful 2013. 28 People on the move Find out the latest promotions and appointments in the region. 29 TATOs Focused news for travel agents and tour operators from around the world. 30 Picture Perfect A visual tour of recent events in the industry.
Cementing its confidence in Egypt
The new signing marks the company’s sixth property in Cairo, located in the Maadi district
Hilton Worldwide is set to introduce its sixth property in Cairo, Egypt, following the expected 2016 opening of Hilton Cairo Nile Maadi. The 257-room hotel will be located in the upscale residential and diplomatic district of Maadi with direct access to the Corniche El Nile. Towering over 23 storeys, it will boast views of the Nile and some of Egypt’s famous heritage sites, museums, and popular tourist attractions. President – Middle East & Africa, Hilton Worldwide, Rudi Jagersbacher said: "Our
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Egyptian expansion strategy and pipeline growth reflect our unwavering faith in the viability of Egypt, its people, business and community, as we continue the tradition of providing both hospitality and comfort to discerning travellers." Hilton Worldwide has made the announcement jointly with a prominent investor, Saudi Egyptian Real Estate Development. The properties are to be designed to appeal to both leisure and business travellers; Hilton Cairo Maadi will feature a business centre, a
400m2 function room, two boardrooms and three meeting rooms. Leisure facilities are set to feature a health club and spa, an outdoor swimming pool, two restaurants, including a speciality dining outlet; a lobby lounge, and an executive lounge. The property is an addition to the company’s growing development programme within Egypt, with plans in place for the 635-room Hilton Heliopolis; the 390-room Hilton Giza Pyramids; the 158-room Hilton Alexandria Corniche; and the 195-room Hilton King’s Ranch Resort. April 1 2013
I am also pleased to inform you that the TTG team will be exhibiting on stand UAE 2500, so feel free to drop by and say hello.
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Tatiana Tsierkezou Media Reporter
NEWS
New four-star hotel opens in Dubai
Landmark Zenath Group says that its alliance with Ramada Hotels fits well with the future development plans of the company
Landmark Hotels & Suites announced the opening of the newly-built Ramada Deira Hotel in Dubai. The 173-room hotel is located opposite Reef Mall, a 15 minutes’ drive from Dubai International Airport. All rooms have flat screen TVs and high-speed WiFi, and the property itself offers a business centre, health club, an outdoor pool, sauna, steam room and fitness centre.
Managing director, Landmark Zenath Group, SM Sadique, commented on the occassion: “Landmark Hotels has been in the business since 1995. Over the years, we have reinvented ourselves several times and diversified into new ventures through strategic tie-ups. Our alliance with Ramada Hotels fits well with the future development plans of the company.”
Abu Dhabi focuses on Urban Spanish brand enters Leipzig the MICE sector Meliá Hotels International recently penned an agreement for its first Innside by Meliá-branded property in Leipzig, Germany, expected in late 2015. The Kosmoshaus, built in 1853, is to be converted into a four-star hotel and is expected to include a newly built section, featuring a modern front-side comprised of twisted façades. The 153-room property will be located in the city
April 1 2013
centre, next to the city’s vibrant Gottschedstrasse. Leisure facilities anticipated include a fine-dining restaurant on the top floor of the new building, while the roof of the old building is set to house a skybar with an outdoor terrace. Furthermore, the hotel is expected to offer four meeting rooms spread across a 380m² conference area, a wellness centre and an underground carpark.
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bu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) has recently welcomed the launch of Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau (ADCB) on March 4, 2013.
We are confident this strategy will contribute to our nation's economy. The new office is a part of Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), and its main functions include supporting the development of the emirate as a MICE destination and providing various services to the sector, including bid presentation support; co-ordination of local stakeholders; government support coordination and marketing assistance. Chief commercial officer, ADNEC, Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri commented: “Our continuous endeavour is to attract meetings, incentive events, conferences and exhibitions to Abu Dhabi and strengthen our partnerships with global players. We are confident this strategy will serve to improve the quality of upcoming conferences in Abu Dhabi and eventually contribute to growing our nation’s economy, in line with Abu Dhabi Vision 2030.”
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NEWS Exhibition Calendar APRIL 23-25
WTM Latin America, Sao Paulo, Brazil www.wtmlatinamerica.com/ •
May 5-6
AHIC, Dubai, UAE www.arabianconference.com/ • •
May 6-8
Airport Show, Dubai, UAE www.theairportshow.com/ •
May 6-9
ATM, Dubai, UAE www.arabiantravelmarket.com/ • •
May 12-14
Routes Europe, Budapest Hungary www.routesonline.com/ •
May 21-23
IMEX, Frankfurt, Germany www.imex-frankfurt.com/ •
May 21-23
Middle East Event Show, Dubai www.me-eventshow.com/ •
May 29-30
CATHIC, Istanbul, Turkey www.cathic.com/ •
• TTG Middle East & North Africa will be available at these shows • ttgmena luxury will be available at these shows
Landmark Baghdad hotel set to reopen
New UAE car rental outlet to launch
ristal Group has announced a signing to reopen the landmark Ishtar Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq, now renamed Cristal Grand Ishtar Hotel. As one of the tallest buildings in Baghdad the 20-storey property is to comprise 307 rooms and suites, featuring 92 Standard King rooms, 111 Standard Twin rooms, 62 Deluxe rooms, 40 Junior suites and two Presidential suites.
We look forward to being part of Iraq’s growth and development. Cristal Grand Ishtar Hotel is to offer four F&B outlets, including Al Warkaa fine dining restaurant; Dananeer all day dining; Larsa café; and a lobby lounge within an atrium. President, Cristal Group, Peter Blackburn said: “It is our honour to be the first international hotel operator in Baghdad in over 20 years and to be managing the prestigious Cristal Grand Ishtar Hotel, where extensive development is underway. We see it as the beginning, and we look forward to being part of Iraq’s growth and development." The hotel is to feature meeting rooms, a business centre, spa and gym.
Singh: Thrifty Car Rental has a strategy to open new outlets in high population density areas Thrifty Car Rental, a franchise of the Dollar Thrifty Automobile Group, has announced plans to further expand in the MENA region. Thrifty Car Rental is set to open its 12th mall-based outlet in the UAE due to be located at Al Ghurair Centre in Deira, Dubai. The outlet is expected to be the first of several branches that the company intends to open in retail locations throughout 2013.
General manager, Thrifty Car Rental, Rahul Singh said: “We hope to see sustained growth in 2013, and our target is to open at least six new outlets across the emirates this year in a bid to make us easily accessible to all our UAE customers.” He added: "Our customer feedback reveals that convenience and accessibility are among the main reasons for renting cars at our mall locations."
Luxury brand introduces South American heritage property
Guests of the restored hotel will have full use of the property's spa, hammam, solarium and fitness centre Following three years of restoration, Sofitel is set to open Sofitel Legend Cartagena Santa Clara in Colombia as the fourth property under the Sofitel Legend label. The Sofitel Legend collection is designed to feature iconic, historical properties from across the world. As a former monastery built by the Clarisas nuns in 1621, Sofitel Santa Clara is to be the first Sofitel Legend in
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April 1 2013
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South America. Located in central Cartegena, the hotel reportedly overlooks the Caribbean Sea and offers 122 refurbished guest rooms, comprised of the historical Colonial wing and the modernised Republican wing. The historical wing boasts 17 suites, including the 143m2 Fernando Botero Suite, named in honour of the Colombian artist and featuring
several of his works, and the Junior Suite Legend. The renovated suites are said to each present a blend of architecture with modern comfort, while many of the rooms feature views of the Caribbean Sea. The hotel’s modern wing is inspired architecturally by the Republican era, with touches of French and Colombian culture. Each room is designed with white wash walls, natural wood ceilings and in neutral tones. F&B offerings include the former Clarist nuns’ dining room, which is now the 1621 restaurant providing French and Mediterranean cuisine. Guests will also be able to sample El Coro Lounge Bar, offering signature cocktails, cigars and live music on weekends, and the more casual El Claustro Brasserie. A So Spa is also included at the property along with a hammam, solarium, and fitness centre. Guests will also have access to the hotel’s courtyard.
NEWS
Event to showcase extended runway
Familiarising itself Launching its second with growing markets Korean property
An event emphasising the economic benefit of Birmingham Airport’s extended runway has been given major billing at an international conference. Expected to be completed in 2014, the runway is to be extended by 400m to open up opportunities for more long haul direct destinations, and is predicted to influence a boost of approximately four per cent to the West Midlands economy through investment into the region and improved export potential. Development director, Birmingham Airport, Will Heynes said: “The runway extension will allow aircraft to fly an extra 2,000 nautical miles so that they can reach high value markets in China and the US. We will enable the Midlands region to connect with the world, attract new overseas investment opportunities and allow people to fly directly into the city."
n a bid to better focus on its growing markets, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has undergone a month-long relocation of its global headquarters from Stamford, the US, to Dubai.
The extended runway at the airport is set to open up more direct global routes
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and ever greater global connectivity are creating a once-in-a-lifetime growth opportunity for our business – by fuelling new demand, changing travel patterns, and entirely new
Working in a different market allows you to see the world through a different lens. President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Frits van Paasschen stated: “With 80 per cent of Starwood’s pipeline coming from rapidly growing markets, it is not possible to lead a truly global business from a boardroom in Connecticut. Rising wealth
April 1 2013
travel markets. Dubai epitomises this changing face of travel, and we expect this relocation will deepen our relationships with partners, associates and customers. “Working in a different market allows you to see the world through a different lens," he added.
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The hotel is reported to be suitable for both business and leisure travellers Park Hyatt Hotels has unveiled the opening of its second Park Hyatt-branded hotel in Korea, The Park Hyatt Busan. Situated in the commercial centre of the city, the new property is to provide a high-end option to international and Korean visitors travelling for both leisure and business purposes.
“This opening is a true reflection of the ways in which Hyatt continually aims to become the most preferred brand in every segment we serve, and it also shows the growth of the Park Hyatt brand into areas in which we know our customers are travelling,” stated group president – Asia Pacific, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, Larry Tchou. “We are seeing a booming hotel scene in Busan thanks to increased international conventions and festivals, and we look forward to welcoming travellers to Hyatt’s luxury brand.” The hotel provides its guests with the Lumi Spa & Fitness, as well as a number of function halls and a ‘Drawing Room’ for meetings and events.
NEWS
UAE watersports centre opens
New hotel concept to Airlines sign strategic launch in Bahrain partnership he Domain Hotels has revealed that its first property, The Domain Bahrain, due to be located in Manama’s Diplomatic District, is expected to open in May 2013. The property is set to boast 61 suites and 68 rooms, featuring wall-sized windows and views over the city and the Arabian Gulf. The hotel is to offer a members club, Vie Spa and Vie Fitness, meetings and event facilities in addition to a wide selection of food and beverage options.
Visitors to the centre can learn to scuba dive in the three-metre deep dive pool Desert Islands WaterSport Centre on Sir Bani Yas Island has officially opened, enabling visitors to the centre to participate in a range of diving and watersports experiences for all ages and abilities. The centre is to feature a selection of lecture rooms and a three-metre deep dive pool to assist beginners learning to scuba dive, or for divers keen to achieve
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their PADI certification. Divers can explore the depths of the Arabian Gulf Sea with an Adventure Dive, qualify as a rescue diver, or for the more experienced, take part in a Dive Master course across seven days. The centre also offers private boat charters, with stand-up paddle boarding, pearl diving and deep sea fishing activities expected to be added.
The social element is so ingrained in everything we have created, we cannot wait for the doors to open. With the new hotel’s slogan ‘Stay Work Play’, the new property will reportedly integrate a variety of entertainment, media, technology and sociability into its offerings. General manager, The Domain Bahrain, Patrick de Groot stated: “The social element is so ingrained in everything we have created, we cannot wait for the doors to open."
April 1 2013
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CEO, Etihad Airways, James Hogan and CEO, Kenya Airways,Titus Naikuni signed the strategic agreement Etihad Airways has announced that it is to expand its reach across Africa after signing a strategic commercial partnership agreement with Kenya Airways, the national flag carrier of Kenya. Etihad Airways is due to place its EY code on Kenya Airways flights from Nairobi to 27 destinations across Kenya Airways’ network. As part of the reciprocal codeshare agreement,
Kenya Airways is set to place its KQ code on Etihad Airways’ daily service from Nairobi to Abu Dhabi and, subject to government approval, onwards to up to 32 destinations across Etihad Airways' global network. Kenya Airways is also expected to launch a new three times-a-week service between Nairobi and Abu Dhabi from mid-summer of this year.
NEWS
Expansion into Indonesia est Western International has announced the launch of its first hotel in the city of Semarang, Central Java. The newly-constructed Best Western Star Hotel is located in the centre of Semarang’s business district.
This year we are planning to add at least 12 new hotels to our Indonesian collection, therefore encompassing many of the country’s fastgrowing cities. “Semarang, with its expanding population of more than a million people and
Indonesia will become a key part of our Asian expansion strategy. Vice president, international operations – Asia & the Middle East, Best Western International, Glenn de Souza commented: “As we enter 2013, Indonesia will become a key part of our Asian expansion strategy.
increasing importance as a region business hub, is one of these cities." The hotel offers 258 rooms and suites which include a number of amenities such as wall-mounted HD LCD televisions.
Optimistic tourism Business and leisure figures released sector targeted Bin Majid Hotels has recently revealed that it is to open a new property, Santorini Hotel at Marjan Island, the first man-made island project in Ras Al Khaimah, by the end of 2013. The property is expected to offer 265 rooms and suites, elegantly designed in order to meet the demands of both business and leisure guests from the Middle East and worldwide. It is also to include high-end restaurants, a spa, gym, swimming pools as well as having direct access to the beach. The announcement was made at ITB Berlin 2013, which took place from March 6 to 10. Santorini Hotel is looking to be an ideal location for weekend trips and long holidays. Group general manager, Bin Majid Group, Ali Kasapbashi commented: “We are pleased to announce the addition of Santorini Hotel to our existing properties in Ras Al Khaimah. "This new property will cater to the demands of both leisure and business guests who are looking at Ras Al Khaimah as a new tourism destination. This new development is part of our goal to expand the brand in the region. It has been a very good start for 2013 and we can’t wait to welcome all to the new property when it opens by end of this year," he added.
Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) has released its tourism statistics for 2012, on the sidelines of the recently held ITB Berlin, thus depicting continuous growth of Sharjah’s tourism sector. Over 1,739,240 tourists visited the emirate in 2012 – representing an 11 per cent growth over the 1,562,869 registered in 2011. The hotel occupancy rate in Sharjah stood at 75 per cent, while the occupancy level of its hotel apartments was maintained at 72 per cent. As for the number of room nights, a total of 2,045,690 was recorded – 1,215,636 in hotels and 830,054 in hotel apartments. This is considered to be a rise of 13 per cent on 2011 figures. The number of hotel facilities in Sharjah stands at 101 (55 hotel
Al Noman: International recognition is reflected in the rise in tourist numbers last year apartments and 46 hotels) and the total number of rooms reached 9,141. Chairman, SCTDA, HE Mohamed Ali Al Noman commented: “This growing international recognition, accolades and honours coming Sharjah’s way, also reflected in the significant increase in the number of tourists last year, add to our responsibility to work for greater success and growth."
Strengthening its brand presence in Dubai
The property is located 30 minutes from Dubai International Airport
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Starwood Hotels & Resorts and Majid Al Futtaim Properties have announced the opening of Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates Hotel, Starwood’s 14th property in Dubai. Directly connected to the Mall of the Emirates, the hotel comprises of 481 guestrooms, including 94 suites and extensive meeting space. Four restaurants and lounges are offered, including Sanabel, a Mediterranean restaurant; Sodabox, an American retro 1950s café; Vantage, a contemporary urban lounge and Sanctuary Pool Lounge, boasting panoramic views. “Sheraton has a long history in the Middle East, spanning over 50 years and it continues to be one of the most sought-after hotel brands in the region,” commented global brand leader, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, Hoyt Harper. “With the opening of Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates Hotel, our brand portfolio in the region is stronger than ever and globally, we are anticipating record-breaking growth with plans to open our 500th Sheraton hotel by 2015,” he added. Being the newest Sheraton in the MENA region, Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates features signature elements of the brand, including Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Beds, a Sheraton Club lounge, The Link@Sheraton Experienced with Microsoft, Sheraton Fitness Programmed by Core Performance and a Sanctuary Spa.
TECHNOLOGY
www.hertz.com.br
WEB REVIEW Hertz has recently announces the extension of its website for Bahrain. The new site offers clean lines with easy to navigate and well defined tabs in the yellow, grey and black brand colours of the international car hire company. The homepage has a book a car quotation box from which interested customers can calculate the cost of hire based on pick up locations, times and hire car type to choose from. In car hire types there are a number of options such as family collection, green collection, fun collection, prestige collection and vans to rent. Once a specification is chosen a new window
By Naomi Leach
showing all selected vehicles and pricing to match your criteria opens. There are reservation hotline numbers for all Hertz branches in the Middle East as well as links for users to browse all locations of the international Hertz websites. The global network covers an immense 8,800 locations in a surprising 150 countries. Additionally, there is a handy tab, which outlining special offers which include tempting early bird discounts across the global netork. There is also a tab for Hertz Gold Plus Rewards members to log in and take advantage of their benefits.
Content ✰✰✰✰ Navigation ✰✰✰✰ Presentation ✰✰✰✰ OVERALL
Airline introduces mobile website Qatar Airways has introduced a new mobile application for BlackBerry, Android and iPhone handsets, and has also created a new mobile website. These new additions have been launched in order to meet the reported growing customer demands, allowing customers to stay connected to its services and the latest global travel information. Through the convenience of their mobile devices, customers are able to search for and book flights, check their flight status and follow travel alerts. Moreover, members of the carrier’s Privilege Card frequent flyer programme are said to be able to fast–track their booking by logging in with their membership number. CEO, Qatar Airways, Akbar Al Baker outlined: “We are continually looking for ways to bring new and exciting services to our customers. Mobility is high on the list of our customers to have access to important travel and flight information when and where they want it, so we have now given them a new service that meets that demand. As our customers’ needs evolve, so will the services and products that we offer.”
Travellers can access Qatar Airways news from their mobiles
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Resort chain extends booking facilities for accessibility
The new app will allow users to browse the company's portfolio, which comprises of its international properties Centara Hotels & Resorts has launched a new mobile optimised website, in addition to iPhone and Android apps, which are designed to enable users to check room
Free WiFi at airport hailed a success inavia has reported that the free online access provided at Helsinki Airport, Finland, has increased in popularity each year. "The number of users in the wireless network has increased in the last 12 months. In January 2013, the number of users was 168 per cent higher than in January 2012," outlined airport director, Helsinki Airport, Ville Haapasaari.
more likely to connect with an Android device (67 per cent) rather than a laptop nowadays, the airport recorded. Last year, Helsinki Airport improved the WLAN connection by increasing the number of base stations and upgrading the speed rate to 100 Mbs. The total number of base stations stands at more than 80. "International passengers thank us continuously
Only a few airports in the world are providing a well-functioning, fast wireless online connection. Compared to January 2009 figures, the increase is even more extensive: user volume has been recorded at almost 30 times higher. WiFi users are also April 1 2013
for the Helsinki Airport WiFi because only a few airports in the world are providing a well-functioning, fast wireless online connection, which is free," he added. ttgmena.com
availability and to book online using their smartphone. The Centara applications are available at Apple Apps Store for iPhone, and Google Play for Android.
Senior vice president, sales and marketing, Centara Hotels & Resorts, Chris Bailey commented: “We are very pleased to announce this new user experience, which adds tremendous flexibility to our very strong online presence. “Our research has shown that there is enormous potential support for this service, and it brings the full range of Centara properties and services right onto your mobile.” The application is free to download and offers the full range of international Centara properties for users to browse. It also presents Centara news and the latest promotions. Centara has 40 properties within Thailand, with 18 resorts in the Maldives and more further afield.
Developing communications
Hotel guests can explore the property's features from their device Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach has revealed the launch of a brand new iPad and iPhone application, specifically designed for the property. The app enables hotel guests and visitors to explore the property’s facilities and offers, wherever they may be and at any time, prior or post arrival, or throughout their stay. In a bid to develop the hotel’s available communication channels and enhance guest experiences, the new app, which is free of charge, is available for download from AppyHotel in the Apple iTunes store, and grants iPad and iPhone users details of business services, hotel facilities, room amenities, services provided, things to do, updated restaurant events, spa treatments and special offers. General manager, Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach, Horst Walther-Jones said: “Today’s tech-savvy guests and customers expect easy access to information from their devices. With this app, we provide our guests with instant, convenient information, while also creating a new platform for us to communicate with guests. We continue to review and research the preferences of our guests to further enhance products that will improve guest experiences.”
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A gateway of opportunity Saudi Arabia’s travel industry is witnessing a boom in religious and domestic leisure travel, with a rising prominence of secondary cities and increasing digital opportunities, as Ana Mladenovic reports
he key characteristics of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector are its coordinated, aligned growth and continuous strengthening of services on offer to satisfy a diversifying tourism demand. These, amongst others, are now considered significant contributors to the growing economy of this oil-rich economic giant. President, Elaf Group, Ziyad Bin Mahfouz confirmed to TTG: “The Saudi tourism industry is witnessing an upswing, as evidenced by the numerous tourism projects and the constant flow of tourism investments into the country. Moreover, the highly competitive market landscape has prompted tourism companies, hotels and other hospitality firms to constantly improve the quality of their services, ultimately driving the dynamism of the industry. "The consistent performance and huge growth potential of the tourism industry have made it a key contributor to the KSA economy and a pillar of the government’s economic diversification programmes," Bin Mahfouz continued. With the commitment of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities, the sector is beaming with optimism as chief operating officer – Asia, Middle East and Africa, InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG), Pascal Gauvin revealed to TTG: “Demand is driven by a mix of business, religious and domestic tourism, and the government is focused on increasing tourism capacity to allow up to 88 million visitors in 2020.” Regional director – Saudi Arabia, Rezidor Hotel Group, Mohamed Benamar further told TTG that the demand differs between various destinations: “Riyadh and Al Khobar are mainly dominated by corporate and government business, whereas Jeddah is mixed with leisure, business and religious tourism. Yanbu is mainly corporate and related to the oil and gas industry; and Madinah attracts religious tourism from both local and international markets. Each and every one of our properties offers different facilities and incentives according to the market demand.” He additionally stressed that traveller trends and preferences vary from one city to another. “The corporate market is very much focused on receiving value for money and short periods of stay,
DESTINATION KSA
whilst for other destinations like Jeddah and Madinah, travellers are looking for leisure facilities that offer close proximity to the sea or to the Haram Holy Mosque, shopping malls and other facilities.” Backbone of the industry Religious travel remains the backbone of the international tourism industry, and it is generating enviable figures, as Gauvin confirmed: “Religious tourism represents 40 per cent of Saudi Arabia’s international tourism figures, one of the highest you will see globally.” Religious travel market demand is largely managed by the authorities, as general manager, Shaza Al Madina Hotel, Imjad Irshaidiat explained: “2012 was a very good year in terms of Ummrah business as the government issued the Ummrah visas earlier this year, with increased quotas in the visa allotments to key feeder markets. The Hajj visas had some curbs set by the Ministry of Hajj in 2012, and the business was slightly affected. However, the overall performance was great in 2012 compared to 2011 performance.” In terms of securing occupancy, vice president – investment & development, Riyada International Hotels & Resorts, Samer Sabra shared with TTG that his company cooperates with tour operators from different countries in order to ensure high occupancy rates during various months of the Ummrah season, with Egypt, Turkey, Indonesia and Asian countries being the company’s key markets. Massive infrastructure expansions in both holy cities, Makkah and Madinah further testify to the commitment of the Saudi government to enable a higher number of religious tourists to visit these pilgrimage hubs in future. General manager, Makarim Hotel Group, Sultan Alotaibi emphasised the importance of the Madinah-based Al Marefa city project, penned by Saudi Hotels & Resorts (Sharaco) in Q4 2013, which is expected to introduce a new 248-key hotel, executive apartments, a conference centre and an office tower to serve visitors of the second holy mosque, located five kilometres away from the Haram near Mohammed Bin Abdul Aziz International Airport and train station. Makkah, on the other hand, boasts its own mammoth development – the long-awaited Jabal Omar project, and individual properties are also boosting their room capacities and strengthening facilities. Makarim Hotel Group, for example, is also expecting works to commence on the expansion of Makarim Ajyad Makkah Hotel, which is set to see a 20-storey tower replacing its annex building and growing its room portfolio from 411 to 630. Travelling locally According to general manager Irshaidiat, internal tourism is witnessing a steep growth in its volume and spending power and the inbound leisure tourist numbers are on the rise, stimulated by the SCTA. Country sales and marketing director, La Fontaine Hotel & Resort, Ashraf Hendawi noticed that with the growing
leisure travel segment, hoteliers are increasingly focusing on creating more attractive packages. Apart from the hospitality industry, the aviation sector is also striving to capitalise on the local market. CEO, nasair, François Bouteiller explained that the carrier’s strategy is to concentrate more on the domestic market by introducing new operation hubs, destinations and routes.
This country has a huge potential in the hospitality sector and holds a great future. “With a population of more than 27 million, spread across the regions of Saudi Arabia, domestic aviation business has a promising and bright future,” he explained, adding that in the absence of established and reliable train services, domestic airline traffic increases every year with high demands to new destinations and routes. “Moreover, with a relatively high GDP per capita, four major airports and 23 domestic airports, Saudi Arabia has one of the largest domestic travel markets in the Middle East,” he concluded. Domestic travel is of high importance for all industry players; however it seems to be particularly valuable for cities that are just emerging as tourism hubs. Mövenpick Hotel Qassim revealed to TTG that Saudi Arabia is its main feeder market which contributes with 88 per cent to the total business. Gaining spotlight There is no doubt that smaller cities throughout the KSA are gaining more prominence. Alotaibi is highly optimistic about the prospects of emerging cities such as Al Baha, Najran, Jazan and Tabuk. Qassim, for example, saw a 12 per cent growth in revenues in 2012 compared to 2011 figures according to hotel manager, Mövenpick Hotel Qassim, Sharma Prashant, who told TTG that airlines are increasingly including the city in their networks. “Recently, we have signed an agreement with Qatar Airways, whilist Turkish Airlines and Egypt Air are in the future pipeline,” he added, noting that the property is expecting sound growth in the region, mainly in the corporate sector. The potential of untapped destinations is also eyed by April 1 2013
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international giants, with a growing number of branded properties to be expected. Gauvin shared with TTG that there will be a total of 381,000 hotel rooms in the country by 2015, and that IHG sees great potential in Al Khobar and Al Jubail, besides primary cities of Jeddah and Riyadh. General manager, Riyadh Marriott Hotel & Marriott Executive Apartments, Khaldoun Hayajneh confirmed the Kingdom’s importance for the group: “Marriott has very intense future plans in KSA. In the recent past, we have opened three popular brands – Courtyard, Marriott Executive Apartments and Ritz Carlton. A few more properties in Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, Al-Khobar and Jizan are on the cards. This country has a huge potential in the hospitality sector and holds a great future.” Hilton Worldwide, with 17 KSA-based properties planned, is also eyeing the emerging cities. On the occasion of the group’s most recent signing in the country, president – Middle East & Africa, Hilton Worldwide, Rudi Jagersbacher praised Al Khobar: “Al Khobar is a growing, vibrant community and I am delighted we are expanding our presence in a city which offers so much potential.” Benamar also confirmed that Rezidor Hotel Group is looking to grow in secondary cities. “We’re continuing to see a demand from investors for properties in the Kingdom, especially with internationally recognised brands such as Radisson Blu and Park Inn by Radisson,” he concluded. Evolving values Sabra noted that travellers to Saudi Arabia are now more demanding in terms of the quality and the services on offer, which they expect to be aligned to room prices. “This has made hotel operators focus more on training and the uplifting of new products to be offered to visitors,” Sabra stated. A need for a strong digital presence was also voiced by the industry when discussing traveller preferences. Alotaibi confirmed: “As online bookings have increased tremendously in recent times, we foresee major investments on search engine optimisation (SEO) and marketing, together with hotels trying to maintain their online reputation to attract higher conversion.” His views are mirrored by general manager, Mövenpick Hotel & Residence, Hajar Tower Makkah, Omar Boujlid, who explained how his property is keeping pace with technological developments that are changing decision-making patterns: “The trend now is online marketing and social network. We are paying attention to SEO to ensure our site remains ranked on the first page and drive more traffic to our website to optimise direct revenue. “As mobile devices have become the norm for communication and obtaining information, today’s travellers want to quickly access relevant information about establishments and to connect with them through the ability to have a conversation with a hotel representative in real time. We want to ensure our business is noticed across the internet, compel people to talk about us and make our business stand out from your competition,” Boujlid said.
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DESTINATION KSA
Further cementing a solid presence within the region and throughout KSA
Speaking exclusively to TTG, COO – Asia, Middle East and Africa, IHG, Pascal Gauvin reveals the importance of the KSA market to the group
e have a long history in the Middle East, having operated in the region for more than 50 years – our portfolio now spans more than ten countries. Saudi Arabia represents one of our biggest markets within the MENA region, providing a big opportunity, primarily in terms of the market size and its growth. In fact, the country is experiencing a boom in domestic tourism, which is due to rise to nearly 12.5 million within the next three years. We are now the largest international hotel company in Saudi Arabia, both by number of hotels (22) and by number of rooms (5,112). We operate hotels across ten cities, and across the country almost 7,000 people work in our properties, including 2,500 Saudi nationals. A total of eight hotels are currently in our development pipeline in Saudi Arabia, representing 2,465 rooms – a growth of 50 per cent. Holiday Inn is a good growth engine
for us in the country with the rise in domestic travellers. Four of our pipeline hotels are Holiday Inns, including two in Jeddah. In addition, Saudi Arabia is also set to be home to the first Hotel Indigo in the Middle East – our boutique hotel brand. In 2012, we continued to develop our pipeline in Saudi Arabia with two signings: InterContinental and Hotel Indigo, both in Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District. In 2013, Holiday Inn Riyadh Meydan is also set to open, and we opened Crowne Plaza Madinah, the first Crowne Plaza hotel in the Holy City, in late March. Corporate travel is an important driver for us in Saudi Arabia and across the region - this market has remained stable for the last few years, even during the economic downturn. Approximately 60 per cent of our guests across the Gulf are corporate guests, and 45 per cent of corporate guests come from within the region - led by Saudi Arabia.
Deepening its industry presence
The Galleria is expected to launch in Jeddah in 2014 Elaf Group revealed that it is preparing to launch a new hotel in Jeddah, The Galleria, expected to open its doors in 2014. This development is set to bring the group’s hotel portfolio to 14, encompassing 4,700 rooms. In a bid to better serve the central region of the Kingdom, the company recently renovated its offices in Riyadh. “Our strong presence in Riyadh enables us to provide premium-quality services for inbound travellers to Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah, in line with the stringent standards and regulations of the SCTA,” president, Elaf Group, Ziyad Bin Mahfouz outlined to TTG. The company is now taking part at the SCTA 2013 (March 31 to April 4, 2013) at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre, where it is showcasing its development agenda within the hospitality industry on stand 215-2.
Eastern Province to enrich hotel portfolio
Two companies signed for a new DoubleTree by Hilton, expected to welcome its first guests in late 2014 Hilton Worldwide and Hamad Abdulaziz Almousa Trading Group have recently penned an agreement for a new property in Al Khobar – DoubleTree by Hilton Al Khobar Corniche. The 158-room hotel is the group’s third hotel planned for the city and the 17th in Saudi Arabia, which is reportedly Hilton Worldwide’s largest development market in the Middle East and Africa. Global head, DoubleTree by Hilton, John Greenleaf commented: "DoubleTree by Hilton is currently enjoying a period of exciting growth in the Middle East and Africa as increasing numbers of hotel owners experience the benefits of the brand's upscale,
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distinctive characteristics. DoubleTree by Hilton Al Khobar Corniche is set to become an excellent addition to this growing collection and we're looking forward to bringing the brand's signature attributes of warm and welcoming hospitality, high standards and quality accommodation to KSA's Eastern Province." The property will be located downtown, on the city's Corniche, in proximity to numerous restaurants, cafes, boutiques and retail outlets. It is expected to feature extensive meeting facilities, a health club, a swimming pool, two restaurants and a lounge. Construction work is underway and the hotel is expected to open at the end of 2014.
DESTINATION KSA
In their own words Travel industry professionals from the Kingdom’s hospitality industry reveal to Ana Mladenovic what makes KSA such an appealing market Reem Ahmed
Amjad Irshaidat
Marketing and public relations manager, Al Mashreq Boutique Hotel
General manager, Hotel Shaza Al Madina
Saudi Arabia’s free market economy has undergone remarkable changes in a relatively short period of time. It has evolved from a basic agricultural society into a regional and global economic power with a modern infrastructure.
Due to the current situation we find ourselves in, bookings are beginning to be made at the last minute. To keep up with this trend, we have adjusted our plans. We expect security to return and the economy to be enhanced as business increases.
SULTAN ALATAIBI
Samer Sabra
General manager, Makarim Hospitality Group
VP - investment & development, Riyada International Hotels & Resorts
Economic stability and security have played major roles in making Saudi Arabia attractive for MENA travellers. The supreme council for tourism and antiquities have put all their energy to pave the road for operators and investors to invest in the hospitality industry in KSA.
Continuous economic growth and investment over the last 10 years; presence of Makkah and Madinah, considered the main points of attraction for Muslims; presence of different cities with attractions and cultures; and a growth in the exhibitions and conferences sector.
Prashant Sharma
Ashraf Hendawi
Hotel manager, Mövenpick Hotel Qassim
Director of sales and marketing, La Fontaine Hotel & Resort
Saudi Arabia is a key market in the MENA region and companies have good opportunities to do business and to invest. Each destination has its own charm and characteristics, and people here are certainly enjoying a positive business environment and atmosphere.
The warm welcome and the facilities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia make the country attractive. Since we have the holy cities (Makkah and Madinah), most of our travellers get both religion and leisure.
Carrier confident in 2013 strategy
The airline has a number of strategic developments in mind nasair has revealed several strategic plans lined up for 2013, including a stronger focus on the domestic market and the creation of two additional hubs – Taif and Medina. The carrier decided to use a single fleet consisting of Airbus A320 aircraft to secure a more consistent customer experience and minimise maintenance and other costs. It has recently added several new domestic destinations to its network – Yanbu and Taif – which are connected to Kuwait with three weekly flights. As for its international network, the recently expanded codeshare agreement with Etihad Airways now enables nasair
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passengers to connect to a number of the UAE carrier’s destinations worldwide. “This accomplishment is just one of many strategic developments delivered over the previous months within nasair to expand our network and distribution. Further growth in domestic and international sectors are to be announced soon,” said CEO, nasair, François Bouteiller. nasair has received awards for its performance on social media platforms such as ‘Best Interactive Facebook Page’ and ‘Most Popular Airline in Social Media’. It recently reached one million Facebook fans on the social networking site.
Riyadh cluster sales office launched arriott Hotels in Riyadh, namely Riyadh Marriott Hotel, Courtyard by Marriott Diplomatic Quarter and Marriott Executive Apartments, have launched their Riyadh sales and marketing cluster, which now sells all three brands from a single hub. “The set-up took one full year of preparation, plans, actions, processes, recruitment and training, and we are so thrilled to have it launched,” explained cluster director, sales and marketing, Marriott Hotels – Riyadh, Saleh Farajat.
Our customers are happier buying through one point of contact with a variety of offers in terms of brands. The structure of the cluster includes 42 associates divided into market segments – Proactive; Reactive; Events Booking Centre; Marketing Communications; and eCommerce; as well asReservations, all of which are focused upon boosting and leveraging opportunities through united efforts, and facilitating the buying experience for clients. “We value our customers time and their needs, and the cluster set-up confirms that our customers are happier buying through one point of contact with a variety of offers in terms of brands,” Farajat concluded. April 1 2013
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'Green’ hotel focuses on enhancement Mövenpick Hotel Qassim revealed plans to introduce several new developments, including new executive rooms, new ballrooms and renovated bathrooms. The property underwent refurbishment in 2011, but reports that it continuously strives to enhance its offerings. “It is the product and the quality of the hospitality service that helps us lead as the Mövenpick brand in the market. It is easy to maintain rates as they go with a good product, and people judge hotels by the rates offered,” explained hotel manager, Mövenpick Hotel Qassim, Prashant Sharma. As Sharma explained to TTG, the hotel offers guests free Internet and offers discounted rates on food and beverages with certain amenities booked. Sharma claims that its commitment to the environment is what sets the property apart, hoping to ensure that it operates in line with high ‘green’ standards. It has its own water well and prefers to cooperate with companies that are also adhering to environmentally friendly practices.
The hotel observes environmentally friendly procedures, has its own water well and favours companies with similar outlooks
UPDATE CYPRUS
TV channel broadcasting in our rooms,” Yennari added. Highlighting the island’s appeal to the region, business development manager, St Raphael Resort, Farah Shammas exclusively told TTG: “We are close enough to offer travellers from the MENA region a great get-away holiday, but the region should recognise that we are a great destination for longer holidays. We cater extremely well for family vacations with hotels, such as our own.”
The tourism industry occupies a vital role in the local economy. As the managing director of SerenEMC – exhibiting at this year’s Arabian Travel Market in a bid to promote MELTS 2014 – the Middle Eastern Luxury Travel Show, North told TTG: “Cyprus also boasts a strong sense of devotion to family-oriented experiences and thus, as a safe, stunning, natural and flexible landscape, Cyprus should surely be a draw for Middle Eastern travellers.”
A natural element
strengthening THE INDUSTRY
Overflowing with Mediterranean charm, Cyprus provides for all tourism divisions. Tatiana Tsierkezou explores how the island establishes itself as a supreme destination he island of Cyprus resides in one of the most practical locations for travellers from the MENA region as well as travellers from Europe. “Cyprus is a unique island in that it is a three-way stepping stone which shares many synergies with the Mediterranean, Europe and the Middle East,” managing director, Seren Event Management Company (SerenEMC), Alexandra North exclusively told TTG. With its diverse offerings, the island has consolidated itself as a popular holiday destination while also being fully equipped to cater for corporate travellers and travellers with special interests including golf, football, cycling, trekking and more, as explained director, CTO (Cyprus Tourism Organisation), Vassilis Theocharides: “For meetings, conventions, incentives or other corporate events, Cyprus is ideally placed having hosted meetings of heads of government in the past and with over 600 top companies and organisations holding conferences here every year, Cyprus has all the facilities that even the most valued VIPs would need. With a reputation for
quality and professionalism, as well as top class facilities and service, you'll find there's no more distinctive venue than Cyprus." Business development manager, Kanika Group, Spyros Michaelides, noting the significance of the tourism industry to the island, expressed to TTG: “The Tourism Industry in Cyprus occupies a vital role in the local economy, and the quality level is already very high in terms of infrastructure, professionalism and natural beauty. Cyprus faces a major challenge today. The fact that travellers have so many new, fashionable destinations to choose from makes it critical for traditional holiday destinations like Cyprus to be able to re-invent themselves.” Michaelides further explained that the strongest foundation and driving force of tourism in Cyprus has always been the genuine traditional hospitality. Reportedly, a great number of Kanika Group’s team members are locals, thus securing a balanced mix of cultures within all of its properties, while simultaneously delivering renowned Cypriot hospitality and identity that is so sought after. April 1 2013
CAPTIVATING MENA Cyprus is said to appeal to the MENA region, offering opulent weddings by the sea, adventure tourism, leisure tourism and more. With Emirates Airline having reportedly supported the Cyprus tourism industry for 18 years, the carrier provides air links to its broad network, therefore aiding MENA travellers with arriving to the region with ease. Business development manager, Amathus Hotels, Katerina Yennari, who commented on Cyprus’ convenient location due to the variety of flight connections between major Middle Eastern cities, exclusively underlined to TTG that Middle Eastern conferences are often held in Cyprus, gathering participants from numerous countries across MENA. She also explained that all Amathus hotels welcome many guests, notably from the Lebanon, who visit Cyprus to host their weddings. “We can accommodate all their special requests such as special dietary requirements, for example Halal, vegetarian and more, respecting their religious restrictions. Also, we provide Arabic ttgmena.com
Although the Cyprus tourism industry is everflourishing, the importance of sustainability is being highlighted by many. “Despite the fact that a number of steps have been taken towards improving the overall infrastructure for our visitors, for example new airports, theme parks and marinas under construction, we still have some way to go,” sales manager, Londa Hotel, Kallis Spyrou told TTG. “We could benefit from casinos, more marinas and golf courses to attract and meet the demand by the high end traveller.” Underlining this, PR officer, Limassol Marina, Sophia Paraskeva also told TTG that the strength of the economy lies in the services supplied to tourists. “This is precisely why we need to focus on developing and improving on our tourism with the support and development of large scale projects like golf resorts and marinas. Limassol Marina is set to position Cyprus on the nautical yachting map, improve the calibre of its tourism and, in turn the tourism product. It will have a positive impact on the country's economy by establishing it as an international and versatile destination.” In conclusion, North added: "As a new-tomarket event company based in Cyprus, we hope that SerenEMC can play a role in lifting the country's upscale potential out of the shadows in order to reveal a small but bijoux destination that can complement the most discerning of long-haul traveller's thirst for luxury, culture and rejuvenation."
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UPDATE CYPRUS
Agreement for better Polis Chrysochou to accessibility welcome new resort
Both airlines signed the agreement for flights being serviced from within the UK Cyprus Airways and Virgin Atlantic have recently signed an agreement affirming their cooperation in order to put to use the great potential for fast and easy connections from London Heathrow Airport to Manchester, Edinburgh and Aberdeen. The new idea was adopted with the aim of serving students travelling to and from the UK to universities situated in the aforementioned regions, allowing simplified
accessibility. The services are set to operate from Terminal 1 at London Heathrow Airport for passengers travelling with the two airline companies. The Cyprus Airways-Virgin Atlantic (CY-VS) services via Heathrow to and from Manchester launched on March 31, 2013. Edinburgh services are expected to launch on April 5, 2013 and Aberdeen services are set to commence on April 9, 2013.
imni Bay Resort, a large scale development project owned by Cyprus Limni Resorts & Golf Courses – part of the Shacolas Group, located in the Polis Chrysochou area, has been confirmed after the laying of the foundation stone by former President Demetris Christofias.
be sustainable through the use of natural resources and local materials. Care has been taken to ensure that effective management of the natural wealth of the area is carried out during all phases of the development. Our hope is that such development projects will boost the Cyprus economy,” he
Our hope is that such development projects will boost the economy. “One of the most important attributes of the project is that it has transformed an environmentally degraded area into a tourist and residential area,” Christofias declared. “All buildings will
further added. The resort will provide its guests with two golf courses, a hotel, wellness centre, villas, a heliport, sports facilities, a Limni history museum, and more.
Property benefits from renovations
All accommodation has been upgraded with spacious bathrooms and a new interior design Kanika Hotels & Resorts’ Alexander the Great Beach Hotel, located in Pafos, has recently undergone a largescale renovation programme. The renovation project entailed an upgrade of accommodation, with all guest rooms having received a complete facelift with new luxury facilities, which include spacious and luxurious bathrooms, large rain shower systems and a new interior design. Elegant new furniture
has additionally been incorporated. In-room equipment includes a 32 inch, flat screen TV with an advanced entertainment system and a high quality sound system in the rooms and bathrooms. Further updates include an infinity pool with a new wooden sunbathing deck, a quiet retreat exclusively for adults, a Wedding Garden, the Havana Entertainment Venue and an extensive new kids club.
Preparing for a successful year ahead Thanos Hotels has revealed that its property, Annabelle, has recently completed its renovation projects which had been taking place throughout the winter. The renovations reportedly focused on the guest rooms and were spearheaded by French designer, Joelle Pleot and owner, Thanos Hotels, Thanos Michaelides. The hotel company has additionally reported a number of innovative additions throughout 2013, one of which is the return of the ‘Extraordinary Active Holiday’, taking place from April 2-9, 2013, which is to coincide with the Tour of Cyprus cycling challenge. The weeklong programme at both the Almyra and Anassa properties reportedly combines a concentrated series of outdoor physical activities with a traditional Mediterranean diet and spa treatments. Providing for Thanos Hotels’ younger guests, is an activity programme and a
Annabelle received a facelift throughout the winter which focused on its guest rooms new look kids club, providing children of all ages with a variety of activities managed by a leading number of professional child-care experts. Finally, Thanos Hotels’ Anassa property is set to welcome a new luxury villa,
the Alcyone Residence, which is to consist of a living room, dining room, study and a fully equipped kitchen. The suit is to also comprise of a large terrace with an outdoor fireplace and a private infinity pool. April 1 2013
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ON LOCATION UK been introduced to promote the British brand and to pitch the UK as a compelling destination to 21 key markets. Outlining the strengths of the UK’s product, marketing manager, Meliá White House, Karla Pearce told TTG: “The culture, history and heritage of Britain is, we believe, the core for tourism.” Following the announcement of the Olympic Games, hotel openings in London have increased rapidly. Vice president and general manager, Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard, London Darren Gearing shared with TTG: “There has been exponential growth, particularly in the luxury sector away from the traditional areas of Park Lane and Knightsbridge. Recent openings have been of major architectural and design merit, including refurbishments and new builds like our own. London continues to be one of the world’s favourite destinations, and with increased global awareness and an improving infrastructure, hotels who provide outstanding service in beautiful and memorable surroundings will naturally thrive.” Garnering MENA loyalty
Reflecting upon a legacy As the UK basks in a post-Olympic glow, the hospitality industry is working to transform this sporting distinction into continued inbound tourism. Naomi Leach reports he UK’s travel industry is awash with optimistic expectation, fuelled by the continued momentum of a year where Britain’s brand and touristic potential was cast under the global spotlight. The hospitality industry has reflected positively on the impact of the Olympic Games and Diamond Jubilee last year, which illuminated the UK to an international audience. Chief executive, VisitBritain, Sandie Dawe said: “Inbound tourism has shown it can continue to deliver growth to the UK economy and Britain has managed to avoid the threatened displacement in the year of the Games. “Our tourism strategy was to use the showcasing of the Games and turn the millions who watched coverage of Britain into visitors in the months and years ahead," Dawe added. The direct contribution of travel and tourism to the UK’s GDP was $55.1 billion (accounting for 2.4 per cent of GDP) in 2012 and it is forecast to rise by 2.2 per cent in 2013, according to WTTC. VisitBritain, the UK’s national tourism board, revealed that 2012 was the best year for inbound tourism since 2008 with 31.1 million visits. Growth on 2011 represented a one per cent increase in visits. Furthermore, overall spend in Britain rose by four per cent in 2012, to $27.9 billion which represented a record in nominal terms. The ripples of the Games touched several tourism sectors as noted to TTG by CEO, Rizon Jet Hassan Al- Mousawi: “Over the year, particularly during the Olympics, Rizon Jet established
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new and exciting relationships with hotels, theatres and football clubs, golf and race tracks.” While SVP regional director operations – Western Europe, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Michael Wale highlighted the importance of consolidating and capitalising on Britain’s soaring status. Wale remarked to TTG: “The big focus for Starwood in the UK market is to pull on the power of ‘Brand GB’. The Olympics were a long-term investment for the UK tourism industry, they enabled the UK to position itself on the world stage and showcase the very best of this country to potential visitors across the globe. The challenge now is to continue to build on this publicity and use the legacy of 2012 to drive visitor numbers into the UK over the years to come.” To convert this interest into actual tourism, digital communication & PR officer – GCC VisitBritain, Rania Hatoum revealed to TTG that as part of its post-Olympic marketing strategy, VisitBritain has extended its partnership with British Airways to include $7.4 million match-funded brand activity in China, Japan, India and the US, and $3.7 million tactical activity in the UAE, Canada, Brazil and Russia – running from October 2012 until the end of Q1 of 2013. Entitled ‘The Big British Invite’, the campaign aims to change perceptions by actively welcoming foreign visitors. Dawe explained: “The goal this year was to maintain rankings in culture and heritage where we are strong, and improve in areas such as the warmth of our welcome.” The four year ‘GREAT Britain’ marketing campaign has also April 1 2013
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The relationship between the UK and MENA continues to blossom. KSA, Kuwait and Qatar are the best performing Middle Eastern markets for the UK in both visits and spend. In the past five years visitor numbers have dramatically increased for KSA (60 per cent), Qatar (59 per cent) and the UAE (36 per cent). “Qatar and Kuwait spend per night outshines all other countries. Britain plans to increase visits from this region by 30 per cent by the year 2020 and VisitBritain has recently moved its hub from Singapore to Dubai to better serve the demands of this market,” acknowledged Hatoum. Approximately 50 per cent of UAE visitors travel to Britain to see friends and relatives especially during July to September, according to the UAE Market and Trade profile by VisitBritain. The impact of this growing MENA market has been felt particularly in London, marketing director, The May Fair Hotel and Radisson Blu Edwardian, London Linda Plant told TTG: “The Middle Eastern market has transformed the UK hotel industry, opening up demand for much more high-end, luxury offerings. ” Starwood has experienced a 20 per cent increase in Middle Eastern guests in their central London properties in the past three years, reported Wale. General manager, Radisson Blu Edwardian, Guildford, Peter Wardley concurred telling TTG: “Our sister hotels in London are a major draw for the MENA market as a whole. Some of them fill for the whole of August every year with MENA guests.” Although the escape from the heat of the Middle East drives travellers to the UK, general manager, The Cumberland hotel, Marble Arch London Ian Peck told TTG he witnessed a 15 per cent increase in MENA guests during winter in 2012. “Now we have MENA guests staying with us every week of the year.” Shoppers delight Meanwhile, shopping continues to magnetise MENA visitors to the UK. Value Retail reported that the Middle East is the fastest growing market visiting the Chic Outlet Shopping Villages. While retail is a popular attraction, Value Retail attempts to combine it with heritage, sport and cultural offerings. “With Bicester Village next door to the Formula 1 British Grand Prix circuit at Silverstone, it provides a great opportunity for guests from the Middle East to experience great shopping and world-class sport during one trip,” commented head of tourism, Value Retail, Ian Stazicker to TTG. Outside of the capital, marketing & PR manager, Old Swan & Minster Mill, Adrienne Eastwood revealed: “Relative to the MENA market, we have seen an influx of travellers who want to combine retail with history on their holiday.” The property offers VIP concierge to Bicester Village plus access to Blenheim Palace and Cotswold Wildlife Park. Rounding up the offerings available was head of marketing, Goodwood Venues, Judith Speller, who concluded: “Our horseracing season is attracting the Middle Eastern market especially.”
ON LOCATION UK
Restored luxury hotel to open
Brand extends UK presence Hilton Worldwide has announced the signing of three franchise agreements for the DoubleTree by Hilton brand in three more UK cities. Having already opened 11 hotels in the UK in the last two years, the brand has reached an agreement on additional sites in Bristol, Edinburgh and Nottingham.
The hotel, with its 262 rooms and 44 suites, has been designed to retain its original features Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, is set to open Rosewood London in October 2013, overseeing a more than $130 million renovation to transform a 1914 Edwardian, Grade II-listed building on High Holborn. The hotel will reportedly blend English heritage with the Rosewood collections’ ethos. Located in the former headquarters of the Pearl Assurance Company,
Rosewood London is to offer 262 guestrooms and 44 suites. The hotel has been designed to retain original features of the Edwardian Belle Epoque building. The property is to feature 11 event spaces, including a ballroom which will accommodate up to 435 guests and meetings rooms for groups of 10 to 85. Facilities are due to include a Sense Spa and a fitness suite.
We are delighted to be at the forefront of expanding our brand. DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre is a 139room property, DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol City Centre is expected to open this spring and finally, DoubleTree by Hilton Nottingham Gateway is to present 106 guestrooms, meeting rooms and leisure facilities, all of which are expected in late 2013. Global head, Double Tree by Hilton, John Greenleaf commented on these developments: "Following an outstanding year of British tourism throughout 2012, we are delighted to be at the forefront of expanding our brand in this market with new properties in three key cities, including our debuts in Nottingham and Edinburgh."
London skyline to welcome landmark addition Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts is expected to launch its first property in the UK in the summer of 2013. The newly built, elevated luxury hotel is due to occupy levels 34 to 52 of The Shard, boasting views of the capital’s skyline. The property is to offer 202 rooms and suites, four signature F&B venues, three riverfacing event rooms, plus an infinity pool and a 24 hour gym. The hotel will offer a deli on the ground floor,
a destination restaurant and lounge on level 35, and a signature bar on level 52. “Shangri-La Hotel, at The Shard, London will be a dramatic introduction of our signature Asian hospitality and style to the UK,” commented president, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, Greg Dogan. “International guests familiar with Shangri-La touches will also enjoy panoramic views of London from all vantage points. But most
Enhanced fitness facilities introduced andarin Oriental Hyde Park, London has announced a new addition to its facilities with the opening of a new swimming pool and fitness centre, scheduled for early summer 2013. The new fitness and wellbeing space is expected to feature a 17m indoor stainless steel swimming pool with a deck and loungers, Internet stations, and male and female changing rooms which are to offer saunas, steam rooms, showers and relaxation areas. The pool space is also due to provide a fireplace, mosaic wall and a waterfall. The fitness centre has been designed for the
contemporary, high-end traveller and presents Corian screens to create privacy plus the personalised wellness equipment of a Technogym. The new facilities are said to have been inspired by the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s Asian roots by incorporating the five elements (water, fire, earth, metal and air) into the design. The new swimming pool and fitness centre will be available to hotel guests and for a limited private membership as well. Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park has also teamed up with Sculpt, a health and fitness consultancy, to offer a menu of wellness services to guests.
Shopping highlighted as major tourism driver
striking will be the authentic and gracious Asian style of service, the hallmark of our hotels and resorts, which will position this property at the forefront of the world’s finest hotels.” Guestrooms, are to feature complimentary high speed Internet access, designer amenities and more. The Shard is situated on the South Bank of the River Thames and is reportedly the tallest building in Western Europe at 310m high.
April 1 2013
VisitBritain has reported that Britain is one of the world’s most sought-after destinations when it comes to international visitors looking to shop. National tourism agency findings estimated that 18 million foreign visitors spent $6.6 billion in Britain’s shops, meaning 25 per cent of all expenditure by overseas visitors is on the UK’s high streets as well as in the country’s department stores. The VisitBritain survey revealed that the majority of the shopping spend was on clothes, with an estimated $3.4 billion generated by foreign tourists. Many visitors also bought souvenirs, gifts and household goods, totalling $2.3billion. The research revealed that a shopping tourist spends an average of $1,010 per trip – while an overseas tourist typically spends $860. The findings revealed that tourists from the Gulf States were the highest spenders ($656 per head) in the UK, followed by travellers from Nigeria ($631), China ($601) and Russia ($537). The survey highlighted shopping as a major attraction for London, with 81 per cent of visitors to the capital going shopping. Chief executive, VisitBritain, Sandie Dawe said: “Our shopping experience is world class, with high quality, desirable British brands enticing international visitors at all times of the year and providing real value ttgmena.com
The UK’s highstreets and shopping centres welcomed high expenditure from overseas visitors for money against our competitors." Research analysis of respondents from 19 countries found that ‘Shopping in Harrods’ was chosen as a top activity by 19 per cent of respondents when asked to select their top three UK experiences.
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ANALYSIS EXHIBITIONs networking, online marketing and search engine optimisation into Saturday, over a total of four days.” GIBTM, on the other hand, hosted Event Camp Middle East 2013 with technology-inspired lectures dealing with augmented reality, hybrid events and similar topics, and it gave participants an opportunity to engage in the inaugural GIBTM 20x20 Challenge – powered by Pecha Kucha, an ‘against-theclock’ challenge through which they had to present 20 slides shown for exactly 20 seconds per slide. ensuring roi As North noticed, it is often heard that travel trade exhibitions are becoming beneficial only from a PR perspective and that the actual ROI generated is diminishing. According to her, exhibitors wholly deserve access to an unparalleled list of buyers.
A key factor to the success of our shows is ensuring that exhibitors, hosted buyers and visitors see a good ROI.
Essential platforms Presence at top exhibitions is the backbone of companies and organisations’ sales and marketing strategies. Ana Mladenovic explores trends, challenges and opportunities he growing importance of the MICE segment is confirmed by the ever-increasing figures reported by some of the world’s top events. The Gulf Incentive Business Travel & Meetings Exhibition (GIBTM) 2013, held in Abu Dhabi (March 25-27, 2013) has grown eight per cent in show space in comparison with the 2012 event, and has seen a significant rise in the number of European exhibitors. Meanwhile, the East Mediterranean Tourism and Travel Exhibition (EMITT) 2013, held in Istanbul, Turkey (January 24-27, 2013), has set a new record with 131,000 visitors. Finally, World Travel Market (WTM) 2012 recently released an estimate showing that it expects a 13 per cent increase in generated travel and tourism industry deals against WTM 2011, with around $2.8 million anticipated. What makes exhibitions indispensable despite technology is their face-to-face nature, according to industry experts. “When placed in such a face-to-face environment – especially within the realms of luxury travel where competition is hard and fierce – I believe you are far better positioned in terms of persuasion and negotiation, leadership and engagement, and decision-making,” managing director, SerenEMC, Alexandra North explained to TTG. Head, ITB Berlin, Messe Berlin, David Ruetz similarly outlined: “For many exhibitors, being able to meet directly with decision-makers and new audiences is one of the most important reasons for taking part in a show.”
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EDUCATING AND ENGAGING Exhibitions, as North noted, should provide access to information on unfamiliar markets and products. In line with this, SerenEMC’s Middle East Luxury Travel Show (MELTS) is set to be an exclusive, pioneer platform focused on the Middle Eastern luxury travel trade industry. Similarly, Reed Travel Exhibitions is due to see a debut of three of its regional events – WTM Latin America (April 2325) and Incentives, Business Travel & Meetings Expo (IBTM) India (September 12-14) and International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) Africa, all resulting from a growing interest of the industry in these rapidly developing regions. With new events continuously emerging, attendees are looking to maximise their time through value-added benefits, and a strong educational content significantly complements the business side of these gatherings. North explained that crafting an educational platform that steers away from the traditional presentations is crucial to keeping the delegates engaged. “They (the presentations) should be led by dynamic and relevant speakers in intimate surroundings that encourage engagement and trust." Exhibitions around the world are creatively developing their educational portfolios. Ruetz revealed that ITB’s eTravelWorld has developed into a genuine success story this year: “Due to high demand, we had continued discussions, lectures and workshops on social April 1 2013
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“They don’t need to meet with buyers from traditional core markets with whom they have unlimited access already. What they need is to be connected with new buyers who will generate new business opportunities," North said. Portfolio director, IBTM Meetings and Events Portfolio, Reed Travel Exhibitions, Craig Moyes similarly outlined to TTG: “For us, a key factor to the success of our shows is ensuring that each of our exhibitors, hosted buyers and trade visitors see a good return on their investment – financial and time – when visiting one of our shows. We realise that attending a show can be expensive and involves time away from your business, so we strive to make this as valuable an experience as possible for everyone involved.” Messe Berlin seems to be guided by the same concern, as in 2011, thereby ITB Berlin launched the ITB Buyers’ Circle, an additional instrument to boost exhibitors’ business prospects. “This year,” said Ruetz, “Approximately 500 leading international buyers were admitted to this exclusive club. Their overall spending power is almost two billion USD. The services of the ITB Buyers’ Circle considerably save buyers’ time and significantly increase their efficiency.” TECHNOLOGY “The industry has witnessed a huge advancement in technology in recent years and in the ways in which it can be used to support meeting requirements,” said Moyes. “Digital innovations such as webinars, online presentations, tweet chats, podcasts, QR codes and blogs serve as primary support networks these days, and provide added depth and dimension to education content which is vital for industry learning.” He singled out hybrid events as the most prevalent industry trend, enabling exhibitions to stream their education content online, increasing its availability to professionals across the globe and allowing sessions to exist online all year. “In the future, an increasing number of events will be organised and run through smartphones as well as mobile applications,” he concluded.
ANALYSIS cruising
Partnership designed to benefit meeting planners
Lyons: The chance to learn from the leading trade show association is vital to our mission
IBTM, The Americas Incentive, Business Travel & Meetings Exhibition, has recently announced a partnership with the International Association of Exhibitions and Event (IAEE) to co-produce the educational content for the show, set to take place in Chicago in June 11-13, 2013.
IAEE was founded in 1928 to represent the interests of the trade show industry and exhibition managers, and now represents over 8,500 individuals who conduct and support exhibitions around the world. “We are very excited to partner with AIBTM on this key, strategic initiative,” said president, CMP, CAE, FASAE, CTA, IAEE, David DuBois, who is scheduled to participate at one of the education panels at the launch of Education Day on June 11. “This collaboration emphasises IAEE’s priority to help to enrich and engage global meeting planners who are looking to extend their reach internationally,” DuBois added. “We are thrilled to be working with IAEE,” added exhibition director, AIBTM, Reed Travel Exhibitions, Michael Lyons. “To be able to offer our attendees the chance to learn from the leading trade show association is an important part of our mission to deliver on our show theme, ‘Defining the Future of Meetings… Together’. IAEE’s contributions will be incredibly valuable and we look forward to the insights their participation will bring to the AIBTM experience.”
Strong education content lined up for Frankfurt event
The event is said to place significant importance on education and is expected to see over 100 seminars, workshops and informal discussions This year’s IMEX in Frankfurt, Germany, is set to include new education formats encompassing issues such as industry trends, personal development and sustainability. New platforms planned include: Networking Hub,
featuring a selection of networking and wellbeing events; Research Pod, securing twice-daily in-depth discussions about industry research; Lightening Learning Labs – 45 minute education ‘bites’ for exhibitors; Exclusively Corporate
@IMEX Programme; daily education highlights; and a strengthened German education partnership with Compliance Clinic. CEO, IMEX Group, Carina Bauer outlined: “The quality and variety of our education programme has become more and more important to the wider business value provided by IMEX and, for that reason, each year we devote a lot of resources to getting the mix and the content right. With the help and contribution of many excellent industry partners and experts we are proud to present a well-structured, appealing and also comprehensive programme which covers those subject areas that matter most for business success in 2013 and beyond.” The event, scheduled to take place from May 21-23, 2013 at Messe Frankfurt, Germany, is expected to feature extensive content with 100 one-hour seminars, interactive workshops and informal ‘campfires’. April 1 2013
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SPOTLIGHT GREECE She exclusively informed TTG: “One of our main targets is to promote Athens as the ideal congress and city break destination, because it is a city that has so much to offer to both the business and leisure traveller.” She added: “Athens has all the necessary qualifications to compete with many of the traditional European destinations: culture, art, food, nightlife, tourism infrastructure. And it will only get better if all of us realise that the product is there and we just need to promote it in the right way. “Our focus for 2013 is to improve the image of Athens and highlight the fact that it is a friendly and pleasant city to visit for business or leisure,” Toribaba continued. Director, marketing and PR, Dolphin Capital Investors, Katerina Katopis reiterated a similar sentiment, saying: “Greece needs no introductions as it is an established destination.” A fresh outlook Looking to attract new markets, the Thessaloniki Hotels Association was recently in contact with reportedly some of the largest touristic operators in Belgrade, Serbia in an effort to promote Thessaloniki as a ‘city break’ destination to its neighbouring countries. According to the Association, most Serbians prefer to visit Thessaloniki by themselves and not as part of a package deal. However it plans to change this by prompting tour operators of neighbouring countries to create packages for Serbian tourists.
ENDURING STRENGTH A land of sun and culture; Greece has long been an attractive destination. Forging ahead into 2013, the country is boosting its offerings, as Natalie Hami reports reece has always reeled in international tourists with ease due to its vast expanses of coastline and blue skies all the year round. In recent years, the country has been hit hard by its economic woes, which has called for stakeholders to think outside the box. Those in the tourism industry have done so, and as a result, have forged ahead with strategies to once again draw in the visitors. The result is that many once again have the opportunity to appreciate the country’s wealth of beauty, culture, history, custom and hospitality. Positive developments Tourism is high on the agenda in 2013, with hopes that Greece can bounce back; in fact, all indications are pointing in the right direction. Director general, Association of Greek Tourism Enterprises (SETE), Georgios Drakopoulos reiterated this to TTG, whilst also highlighting his optimism for the upcoming year: “Despite the obstacles Greek tourism had to overcome in 2012, the sector remained a strong supporter of the country's GDP, achieving the original target for 16 million international arrivals and $13 billion in international receipts.” Drakopoulos also made reference to Greece’s participation at the recent ITB Berlin, stating that the general message they received there was particularly encouraging. “The above forecasts make us optimistic about reaching, or even exceeding, the
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2013 target for 17 million international arrivals and $15 billion in international receipts.” CEO, Ecotourism Greece website, Iyad Kayali agreed, and told TTG: “Indeed, expectations for the 2013 season are very high, and the bookings so far support a much more fruitful season.” Kayali put forward the idea that the current economic crisis has encouraged Greece into offering a more quality product by creating lower prices as well as making tourism stakeholders more eager to attract foreign tourists. “This means they're targeting their product in a better way, exploring new foreign markets and simply becoming friendlier to travellers now that the Greek market has dried up,” Kayali commented to TTG. Multiple offerings Greece, like many Mediterranean countries, has long been considered attractive due to its sun and sea, and thus has reaped the benefits of this. However, this model is no longer sufficient and it has now started to not only look to new sectors of tourism, but also fresh feeder markets. According to communications manager, Hilton Athens, Tina Toribaba, Athens has much to offer to both leisure and business travellers, and the property is looking to promote this. Toribaba stated that Greece is an ideal location to hold an incentive meeting, as it makes available a business-oriented environment in conjunction with culture and entertainment. April 1 2013
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Our focus for 2013 is to improve the image of Athens and highlight the fact that it is a friendly and pleasant city to visit for business or leisure. Furthermore, in conjunction with the Thessaloniki Tourism Organisation, the Association is promoting actions to complete the twinning that has already begun with the corresponding National Tourism Organisation of Serbia. In this way they plan to create common packages to promote both their cities in markets such as India. In addition, Toribaba revealed to TTG that Hilton Athens are looking to attract new feeder markets, such as China, Russia and India. Their current feeder markets are the US, the UK and domestic tourism. Drakopoulos also mentioned that SETE are concentrating on a new campaign set to promote Greek tourism. “At the moment, we are focusing on the launch of a new marketing company: ‘Marketing Greece’, which will work in parallel with the Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO), in promoting Greek tourism by using BTL marketing tools, developing an international PR network and implementing co-marketing, promotional and commercial activities.” Kayali highlighted that companies are a looking to promote ecotourism: “The demand for ecotourism is rising; we don't just mean hiking in nature. The topic covers everything to do with sustainable travel like discovering hidden traditional guesthouses, experiencing the regional cuisine, collecting local herbs, or kayaking down the river,” he said.
SPOTLIGHT GREECE
Tapping into the rental market
The company has a strong presence in tourist hubs Sfakianakis Group has been appointed by Enterprise Rent-A-Car, its third European franchisee this year. The agreement will give the brand access to countries that together represent almost 90 per cent of the European rental market. With Sfakianakis Group receiving territorial franchise rights across other neighbouring countries in South Eastern Europe, the relationship is also set to make way for further expansion. Greece is reportedly one of
the top 10 most popular tourist destinations in Europe with over 16 million tourists each year, making this partnership a noteworthy opportunity to grow the Enterprise brand. Senior vice president, European operations, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Jim Burrell said: “This is another opportunity to establish the Enterprise Rent-A-Car brand in countries where our customers are asking us to be.” Vice president, global franchising, Enterprise, Peter Smith added: “With a continuing increase in demand for rental in business hubs and tourist destinations, the agreement with Sfakianakis Group enables us to develop a presence, not only in one of the most popular European tourist destinations, but also across the entire Balkan region and beyond.”
Ultimate in luxury offered to residents olphin Capital Investors has announced a number of new developments following on from the opening of Amanzoe Resort in the Porto Heli area in 2012. Director, marketing and PR, Dolphin Capital, Katerina Katopis commented to TTG: “After successfully opening Amanzoe in the Porto Heli area in 2012, Dolphin Capital is now focusing on promoting the branded Villas of the development.”
Dolphin Capital is now focusing on promoting the branded Villas of the development. The villas comprise four and seven bedrooms, with reportedly outstanding sea views and private pools. The Amanzoe resort, which opened in August 2012, offers residents the chance to relax as well as experience yoga class or swim in the waters of a private beach. According to Katopis, the Nikki Beach Resort and Spa directly on Porto Heli bay is also underway, and is set to be a mix of hotel rooms and lofts/apartments for sale.
Airline opens new operational base in Kalamata Aegean Airlines has recently announced that on the occasion of the arrival of the first direct flight from Munich, an official event took place to mark the opening of the new Aegean operational base, offering flights to nine destinations in five countries, from Captain Vassilis Konstantakopoulos Airport in Kalamata. The decision behind the move was made in a bid to support and promote the country's tourist sector competitiveness. The first direct flights from Sweden and Germany arrived recently, and by May, flights will have been gradually introduced from Kalamata to four destinations in Russia (Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan and Rostov), two destinations in Sweden (Stockholm and Gothenburg), Germany (Munich) and Israel (Tel Aviv), as well as the Ukraine (Kiev). Aegean Airlines is due to operate 12 flights a week to the above destinations,
once the full programme is in place, using an Airbus A320/319 with cockpit and cabin crews based in Kalamata. During the official event, the first of the company’s flights from Munich touched down.
A sense of optimism regarding Greece’s tourism industry has recently been expressed by the Association of Greek Tourism Enterprises (SETE). Director general, SETE, Georgios Drakopoulos said: “As far as 2013 is concerned, all messages received thus far are particularly promising from most of the international markets. Already, the traditional markets of the UK, Germany, as well as France have shown a clear positive shift.” According to Drakopoulos, the British market is usually the first of the key markets that starts early bookings. “We are monitoring an increase of 20 per cent in a sample of 600,000 visitors, who have already booked their holidays for 2013 in our country,” he added. Regarding the German,
Drakopoulos: Markets have shown a positive shift French and Scandinavian markets, he said that there is also a 15 per cent increase in bookings, while in the developing markets such as Russia, Ukraine, and Turkey, although it is considered too early to make safe estimations, there is a rise in demand. He added that over a million more aircraft seats are planned for 2013, compared with 2012.
Luxury brand strengthens position in Greece's capital
Messinia and the Peloponnese in general.” He added: “Thanks to the Costa Navarino, Messinia is the first region in Greece to be opening for visitors from the beginning of March, and thereby extending the annual tourist season. It is our
Kalamata is now the seventh Aegean operational base, established in recognition of the impressive power of investment. Vice chairman, Aegean Airlines, Eftichios Vassilakis said: “Kalamata is now the seventh Aegean operational base, established in recognition of the impressive power of investment and the efforts of the various agencies involved, and the prospects for tourism in
Promising outlook on tourism industry
duty to support this exemplary initiative – which is the qualitative objective we all need to follow. At the same time, however, I am touched to see that the airport bearing the name of the late Captain Vassilis Konstantakopoulos will now be a base for one of our aircraft.” April 1 2013
The property is ideally located for guests to enjoy the many sights Athens offers
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has announced that King George Hotel in Athens is to join The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts’ ensemble. Starwood, in partnership with Lampsa Hellenic Hotels, is to open King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens later this year, marking The Luxury Collection’s eighth hotel in Greece. President – Europe, Africa & Middle East, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Roeland Vos said: “We are excited to expand our partnership with Lampsa Hellenic Hotels as we continue to grow our footprint in Greece, further strengthening Starwood’s position as the world’s leader in luxury hospitality.” He added: “The addition of King George to The Luxury Collection brand portfolio underlines the brand’s commitment of ttgmena.com
providing authentic travel experiences as well as exceptional service in this remarkable destination.” Chairman, Lampsa Hellenic Hotels, George Galanakis stated: “Through the management of King George hotel, Lampsa has proven its belief that the Greek crisis will be short-lived and in such a case, the business upside will be substantial.” The hotel welcomed its first guests in 1936 and occupies a prime location in Syntagma Square. It is situated between the parliament and Voukourestiou Street. The property includes 78 rooms and 24 suites and spanning 350m2 across the ninth floor of King George, the two-bedroom Royal Penthouse Suite comes with a private terrace offering a panorama of the city, a private swimming pool and open-air Jacuzzi.
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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE
Thierry Douin
Regional VP – MEA
Dusit International has appointed Thierry Douin as its new regional vice president for the Middle East and Africa. Douin, a French national who has over 35 years of industry experience, is to act as the figurehead for Dusit International in the region, overseeing the company’s expansion efforts, driving operational performance and supervising the opening of new hotels from the Dubai Regional Office.
Louana Moulaeb
ASSistant director of marketing and communication
General manager
ibis Muscat has appointed Sebastien Vincent to the role of general manager. Vincent graduated from the School of Tourism and Hotel Management in Strasbourg. In 2002 he joined Accor as the executive chef of the Novotel Al Dana Resort, Bahrain and prior to his new position was with ibis Al Barsha, Dubai for four years as hotel director. He is to be responsible for overseeing a 55-strong team of associates and maximising revenue and profitability.
Rotana
Anke Glaessing has been appointed as general manager of Mövenpick Hotel Deira. While driving the hotel’s performance, she is to work with the hotel’s executive team and Mövenpick Hotels’ regional office to develop enhanced strategies. She brings with her hands-on operational expertise, following a career path that has taken her from Germany, to executive leadership roles in South East Asia and Dubai.
Sebastien Vincent
ibis Muscat
General manager
Dusit International
Mövenpick Hotel Deira
Anke Glaessing
Rotana has promoted Louana Moulaeb to the position of assistant director of marketing and communication of both Centro Capital Centre and Centro Al Manhal, in Abu Dhabi. The two properties fall under Rotana’s brand ‘Centro Hotels by Rotana’. Prior to her recent promotion, Moulaeb was located at a fellow Rotana property, Centro Barsha, in Dubai.
If you have recently been promoted or appointed key staff, please contact us...
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Regional director f&B – Middle East Bringing over 17 years of industry experience with him, Tolga Lacin has been appointed as regional director of food and beverage for the Middle East region by Starwood Hotels & Resorts. Lacin is to report directly to senior vice president and regional director, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Guido de Wilde and oversee the operations of the company’s outlets in the region, whilst also working to set up new concepts with the hotels in development.
April 1 2013
Director of Sales and Marketing Fady Atwan has joined the team at InterContinental Abu Dhabi as the new director of sales and marketing for InterContinental Abu Dhabi. With more than 11 years of hospitality experience, Atwan is to be key in developing and implementing sales and marketing strategies. Prior to his new role, he was director of sales groups and leisure at InterContinental Festival City in Dubai.
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Agnes Hlavacs
Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai
Viceroy Hotel Group has revealed the appointment of Peter Anderson as the new director of group sales – Europe at its Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi property. Anderson is to be located in central London and will oversee the management of the MICE and corporate travel segments in the UK and Europe. With over nine years of sales experience, he has worked with a number of hotels and resorts.
Fady Atwan
InterContinental Abu Dhabi
Viceroy Hotel Group
Director of group sales – Europe
Tolga Lacin
Starwood Hotels & Resorts
Peter Anderson
Director of revenue management
Agnes Hlavacs has been appointed by Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai as the director of revenue management. Hlavacs joins the property from Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre where she served as pre-opening revenue manager. With over seven years of experience in the hospitality sector, she will lead the revenue management and reservations team and will be in charge of revenue optimisation and pricing strategy.
TATOS
[ A page exclusively for regional and international TATOs ]
DEALS OF THE MONTH
Recreation and relaxation
AGENT SPOTLIGHT... “The IAVRA website is a B2B vacation rental platform that connects international travel agents with the best property management companies worldwide. The unique, closed platform gives subscribers access to over 4,000 villas, city apartments, chalets, lodges, cottages and more, for rental across 52 countries. Premium site features help to differentiate it from your typical listing site: detailed property listings, agent branded e-brochures, pre-negotiated guaranteed minimum 10 per cent commission, and marketing tools. IAVRA is for travel professionals who want a transparent and cost-effective way to take advantage of the vacation rental market. We recently launched region-specific, branded marketing mail outs for agents to send directly to clients. We are also focusing our attention on growing our portfolio of year-round rental properties. In 2013 we are creating an API that will allow agents to promote vacation rentals more directly to their clients by integrating all of IAVRA’s beautiful properties with their own websites. We are also focusing on the Middle East."
‘Spirit of Summer’ has been made available at Baros Maldives, offering GCC guests a tropical holiday experience package which provides a balance of recreation and relaxation.
Summertime escape The Travel Attaché launched summer promotions to the Coco Privé Kuda Hithi Island, Niyama and One & Only Reethi Rah in the Maldives, and other properties in Mauritius, Phuket, Bali, Indonesia, Europe and America.
An adventure for all
Crystal Cruises has added 17 voyages to its ‘Kids Sail Free’ programme, allowing kids to sail complimentary when sharing a third berth stateroom with two adults aboard the Crystal Serenity or Crystal Symphony, from May to December 2013.
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Partner & director of marketing and communications IAVRA, Tianna Moquette
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PICTURE PERFECT 1. Golden Tulip Hotels Suites
& Resorts MENA
An annual meeting for general managers
across the MENA region was held at Golden
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Tulip Galleria in Beirut, Lebanon.
2. Hertz Corporation
Hertz is the official vehicle hire supplier of the Rugby World League World Cup 2013, with promotions for MENA rugby fans.
3. Al Ain Zoo
Zoo Safaris will return to the zoo this spring to offer children an educational experience on wildlife and nature.
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4. Beach Rotana, Abu Dhabi The property and its sister hotels donated 1,024 Ghaf trees in celebration of the UAE National Environment Day.
5. Abu Dhabi Festival
Romeo and Juliet by the Globe Education theatre company kick-started the month-long programme of events at the Festival.
Picture perfect
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April 1 2013
A visual tour of recent events in the region
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SOCIAL HUB Media Voice
Our Team
David Thomson
General Manager Tony Fields TFields@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803001
COO, JA Resorts & Hotels
editor Eleni Henderson editor@ttgmena.com Media ReporterS Naomi Leach Natalie Hami Ana Mladenovic Tatiana Tsierkezou Head of design Edward Beales Designer Maggie Bdjian E-Commerce Manager Panayiotis Philippou PPhilippou@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803008 E-Commerce executive Constantinos Voniatis Sales Manager Adrian Exley AExley@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803004 Account Managers
Facebook users increasingly prefer to interact platform-internally.
Elaine Hockley EHockley@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803011 Inna Armeanu IArmeanu@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803013 Kyriacos Kyriacou KKyriacou@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803014 Marianne Shokry MShokry@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803012 Operations Manager Chris Christou CChristou@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803003 Chief Financial Officer Costas Miaoulis CMiaoulis@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803002 Accounts Executive Vasilis Eracleous VEracleous@ttgmena.com D: +357 24 803026 Headquarters Nietzsche Street, Ria Court 9, 1ST Floor Makenzi, 6028 Larnaca, Cyprus Tel: +357-24 803000 Fax: +357-24 803060 Email: INFO@ttgmena.com Website: www.ttgmena.com Thailand Representative Public Major Media Ltd, Janya Limmanee Janya.Limmanee@publicitas.com Tel: 662 651 9273 Japan Representative Pacific Business Inc,Hiroko Kujime Kujime-pbi@gol.com Tel: 81 33661 6138 TTG Worldwide Titles* TTG Asia TTG Balkans TTG China TTG Czech Republic TTG Hungary TTG Italia
JA Resorts & Hotels has begun offering direct bookings via its properties’ Facebook pages. COO, JA Resorts & Hotels, David Thomson said: “JA Resorts & Hotels are aware that travellers are increasingly relying on social networks like Facebook or Twitter when deciding where to stay and we’re delighted to make it easier for them to book us on the world’s most popular social networking website." He also told TTG: “Our social and digital media consultant, Iconsulthotels, provided us with trend data, showing that Facebook users increasingly prefer to interact ‘platform-internally'." All five UAE-based properties operated by JA Resorts & Hotels can now be booked via Facebook. According to Thomson, travellers will find a ‘book a room’ tab and users need only click the icon tab and they will be taken to a secure Facebook page, where they can check make bookings.
To find out more about TTG MENA’s social media activities, visit us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn TTG MENA POLL Question We Asked: When booking flights and accommodation, are you influenced by loyalty to a brand?
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Rotana opens first Bahrain property – Majestic Arjaan by Rotana Etihad Airways partners up with Kenya Airways Abu Dhabi welcomes its first Ritz-Carlton Starwood Hotels & Resorts to boost MEA portfolio by 60 per cent TDIC launches first public beach on Saadiyat
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