Middle East & North Africa
June 1 , 2011
ISSUE 215
POWERING FORWARD Oasis of calm Jordan is currently leading the way in several touristic niches, taking shape as the next boutique destination of the Middle East.
> Destination page 10
New heights Consistently rated amongt the world’s most visited destinations, France is continuously able to tempt travellers to visit its shores.
> On Location page 16
BY ANDREAS STYLIANOU
Innovation and authenticity are pioneering the future of hotel design, over previous standards of conformity
nnovation and authenticity have been highlighted as key dynamics for hotel differentiation, in a region faced with ever-more supply-led challenges. Sharing his outlook on the future of hotel design during the recently concluded The Hotel Show in Dubai, managing director, Seven Tides, Michael Scully encouraged the Middle East’s hoteliers to move away from brand conformity and corporate design aesthetics, in order to stay ahead of the fierce regional competition. “People are already looking for authentic experiences, and I believe that in the future, offering these
experiences will be a requirement,” Scully explained to TTG. “Guests will be more inclined to favour an authentic cultural experience, entertainment and ambience, as well as creative F&B initiatives. "These aspects need to come through a flexible design to create an overall experience that would be memorable by being different,” he added. Noting that while strong brand identity and conformity to design have proven effective for hotels in the past, Scully emphasised the need for more pervasive innovation across every aspect of the hotel experience. continued on page 2
Looking to the sky Proving to be one of the most stable sectors in the travel industry, Religious Tourism is continuing to prosper.
> Analysis page 18
CONTENT
Sound Bites We are now concentrating on inviting press to the country, to show them that Jordan is a democratic country which is stable and peaceful.
> CONTENTS 03 Hotel Check We review a home away from home in Dubai.
Marketing manager, JTB, Mahfouz Kishek
04 News Latest developments from across the region's ever-moving tourism sector.
page 10
08 CSR Industry initiatives to stay green and give back.
People from the GCC are willing to beat the heat and escape from the stress by going to peaceful places such as the French Alps. Middle East regional director, A Tout France, Karim Mekachera
page 16 Religious tourism will keep expanding because people from different denominations are coming back to religion and faith. Director general, marketing, Palestine Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, Majed Ishaq
page 18
09 International Brand debuts, new flight routes and hotel openings. 14 Update Algeria and Libya Fast facts and international hotel openings from North Africa. 20 Comment Egypt's new Minister of Tourism talks about the country's bid to reinstate its leading position in the industry. 21 Summer Promotions Value-for-money and seasonal discounts this summer. 23 Interview President, West Paces Hotel Group, Horst Schulze reveals future plans. 26 Picture Perfect Snapshots from the latest events across the region.
Innovating hospitality Moreover, Scully underlined multi-branding strategic partnerships as a successful way for hotels to attract increasingly discerning guests and access untapped markets. This trend has already been adopted in properties such as Armani Hotel in Dubai, where the cutting-edge design and reputation of international designer Giorgio Armani has provided significant leverage for the hotel. Presenting an insight into the collaboration between Emaar Properties and Giorgio Armani, CEO, Emaar Hotels & Resorts, Marc Dardenne told TTG: “Nestled in the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, the design and concept of the Armani Hotel Dubai is as unique as its location. “Through its design, concept and service standards, the hotel has already set new benchmarks in global luxury hospitality. Every detail in the hotel bears the Armani signature, and is
continued from page 1
create an individual hotel, offering a unique guest proposition. Such innovation could aid regional hotels to capture increased business in a highly competitive international marketplace, especially with considerable new properties going on line in the region. “Innovative design will be essential if hotels here are to create new opportunities to exploit more niche markets, and by doing so, broadening their overall appeal,” he said. “Gulf hotels presently focus too much on capturing western demand, while reacting slowly to the growth potential in the booming economies in Asia and the Far East,” he added. Further stressing the importance of ambience and guest experience in attracting wider target markets, Scully stressed: “Entertainment in hotels must transcend race, age and gender, and where appropriate, appeal to the entire family,”
Innovative design will be essential if hotels here are to create new opportunities. a realisation of Giorgio Armani’s dream to have a hotel, where the Armani aesthetics are combined with warmth and hospitality. “Reflecting the pure elegance and simplicity that define Armani’s signature style, combining the use of precious materials and sophisticated finishes, the design of the Armani Hotel Dubai creates a highly personalised space,” Dardenne added. According to Scully, another tactic could see larger hotel chains look at a ‘fusion’ approach, integrating certain brand assets to
However, in certain market segments, conformity has its place. “Three-star hotels for priceconscious business travellers need simple designs that keep development costs down and support a competitive room rate structure,” said Scully. Speaking to TTG about the roles that authenticity and character have always played in property design, Scully concluded: “There are hotels that were built 60 or 70 years ago, in cities such as London, Paris and New York, which display such genuine character, that they haven’t, and will never lose their appeal.”
We’re all going on a summer holiday
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Shadowy sunlight dances playfully across my closed eyelids, as the seductive sound of the sea lapping gently against the shore lulls me into a state of semi hypnosis. The powder soft sand tickles the underside of my bare feet, while an ice cold drink sweats beads of condensation at my side. Emerging from the palm trees of my private island paradise, two scantily clad waiters offer me silver platters laden with a colourful mix of exotic fruits. “Have you edited my Jordan report yet?” says the first waiter, “Did you call that hotel manager about the full page interview,” says the second? Hang on... What? In an instant I am yanked violently away from my delicious daydream and back to the reality of a hectic Friday afternoon in the office, and the page of summer promotions I am currently writing up for this issue of the newspaper. I think I’ll eliminate the waiters from my next mid-morning reverie; they had to go and open their big mouths and ruin everything!
The season for sun-cream and swimsuits is upon us once more.
While summer holidays may seem a million miles away from my current position behind the computer screen, in reality the season for sun-cream and swimsuits is upon us once more. And so in a bid to help you communicate your latest summer packages and seasonal offerings, we are featuring summer promotions pages, as well as Ramadan and Eid promotions pages in the next two upcoming issues of TTG. This year it seems that the adults have relinquished the responsibility of choosing the all-important summer holiday destination, with the younger members of families dictating the decision instead. Taking advantage of this increasing trend, Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing has re-launched the ‘Kids Go Free in Dubai’ promotion with Emirates Airline and flydubai, offering discount packages, lower prices for parents and free tickets for children under the age of 12. Over 45 family-friendly hotels and apartments in Dubai are taking part in the promotion, as well as a plethora of family attractions and popular tourist venues. Of course kiddie-infused summer holidays, melted ice-cream and sandcastle building competitions are not everyone’s idea of a good time, but whatever you do this summer let us know about your adventures and we'll do our best to publish your postcards and photographs. Looking forward to hearing from you, till then, happy holidays!
Emily Millett Editor
June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
NEWS HOTEL CHECK R o s e R a y h aa n b y R o t a n a – D u b a i Arriving at Etihad Airways’ bus station in Dubai, I could already see the immense structure of Rose Rayhaan by Rotana in the distance. Upon entering the building, I was pleasantly surprised to find a relatively small space, which was very well thought out and exuded comfort, warmth, simplicity and a rather homey feeling. The hotel’s staff reinforced this ambience, as they were willing to help us at once and seemed very well trained and efficient. In no time I was checked-in and whisked to the 40th floor where my comfortable suite was located. With its own mini sitting area and kitchenette, and an array of in-room amenities, everything I needed was within my reach. Moreover, it was kept so clean, I was almost fooled into believing I was the first person to have ever slept in it. Finally, perhaps the best part of any hotel experience, the breakfast, was very rich and the staff there had a genuinely caring attitude towards the guests. Breakfast was conveniently located on the first floor, providing views of Sheikh Zayed Road.
Suitable for: Business Meetings Banquets Leisure Families
man Air has announced that 2010 was the most successful year-to-date for its desert operations. In 2010, Oman Air operated 693 flights, carrying 110,000 passengers between the three desert airports. Up to 500 passengers per day flew between two or more of the desert destinations, with Oman Air operating an average of three flights per day, six days per week. Manager, desert operations, Oman Air, Mohamed Al Zakwani commented: “The combination of Oman Air's
Weddings Honeymoons Wellness Culture VIPs
Nicos Kyriakides TTG staff and correspondents assess services used by them. We report the results, which are based on a one-time experience only and view services from a customer perspective.
Announcing successes
The airline has adopted new software solutions
efficient services and outstanding passenger comfort has led to our desert operations' busiest year yet." In other developments, the carrier has adopted SITA’s breakthrough software solution for fares management, Airfare Insight. The new system analyses fares and manages the workflow across multiple departments to ensure the right fares are distributed at the right time, to the right customer. “Oman Air always wants its customers to have the best value air fares and with the Airfare Insight solution we will be able to optimise our fare offerings within the same selling day,” commented CEO, Oman Air, Peter Hill. “We will have an informed view on what our competitors are doing, and be able to make real-time decisions on pricing, and adjust our offerings to make the best fares available through any distribution channel.”
Middle East growth Hotel development in the Middle East is showing no sign of slowing down, according to speakers at the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference 2011 in Dubai last month. Representatives from major hotel operators such as Hilton Worldwide and Starwood Hotels and Resorts pointed out that their performance in many parts of the Middle East has improved, and that they are moving ahead with expansion plans in the region. "We have 50 hotels right now in the region and we expect to see growth of 80 per cent in the next three years," said president, Hilton Worldwide – Middle East and Africa, Rudi Jagersbacher. President, Starwood Hotels and Resorts – Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Roeland Vos added that the company is looking to double its current roster of 63 hotels in the region in the next five to ten years.
June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
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NEWS
<< IHG partners with Action Hotels
Nobu Hotel Abu Dhabi planned
Three is the magic number
Various room categories are available within the hotel
Bin Majid Group has recently announced plans to open up its latest property, Mangrove Hotel, which is set to be situated in Ras Al Khaimah, 10 minutes away from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport. Chairman, Bin Majid Group, Dr. Ali Kasapbashi said: “We are extremely pleased to announce our plans to open up a new five-star hotel in Ras
Al Khaimah, which is our third in the UAE. “We also intend to continue to invest in and develop other potential hospitality and tourism activities over the next few years, since our study on the region predicts that the Middle East will be frequented by an ever-increasing number of tourists in the coming years and the tourism industry will remain robust.
"By opening all these new properties, the group wishes to establish itself as a major player in this region,” Kasapbashi added. Mangrove Hotel is to offer 30 standard rooms, 90 onebedroom suites, 60 executive rooms and six presidential suites. Furthermore, a wellness centre, swimming pool, bar, business centre, meeting rooms, an all-day dining restaurant and a Chinese restaurant are also available. “The management of Bin Majid Group is committed to working hard to ensure that guests get the most memorable experience during their stay at this new landmark. As part of this very prestigious group, we at Mangrove Hotel will continue to bring the same vision and enthusiastic perspective to Ras Al Khaimah,” Kasapbashi concluded.
Most successful quarter to date
An Abu Dhabi government initiative, Masdar City has made rapid progress since 2006
With revenues increasing by 21.2 per cent to $770 million in the beginning of 2011, Etihad Airways has reported its most successful first quarter to date. Coupled with a 5.9 per cent reduction in costs per available seat kilometre, this delivered positive earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation and rentals (EBITDAR) for the first time. Passenger revenues rose by 15 per cent on the back of a 10.6 per cent growth in passenger numbers, which reached 1.85 million. “I am pleased to report more positive progress on our
journey towards break-even and profitability,” commented CEO, Etihad Airways, James Hogan. “Our revenues continue to grow faster than our passenger numbers and, thanks to our robust cost controls, we are seeing a
In other news, the company recently announced that it will feature Masdar City, one of the world’s most sustainable cities, as part of its new ‘Essential Abu Dhabi’ on-line travel guide, which is designed to provide business and leisure travellers with important information regarding the emirate as a destination. “We are privileged to feature an organisation such as Masdar – which represents Abu Dhabi’s vision for a renewable and sustainable future – as an essential, ‘can’t miss’ destination,” noted Hogan. “Masdar has made significant progress, reflecting the government’s commitment to clean energy and economic diversification. Business and leisure travellers worldwide will be interested in this important story, and we are
Our revenues continue to grow faster than our passenger numbers. real benefit in our overall performance. This marks the first time we have delivered positive EBITDAR in the first quarter.”
pleased to help promote this organisation and the values it stands for to visitors in Abu Dhabi,” he added.
Hospitality Management Holdings (HMH) announced the signing of 11 new projects across the Middle East and Africa, during the recently held Arabian Travel Market.
New building excitement
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et to open at the end of the year, construction is now coming to an end at Al Gassar Resort in Doha. Work began on the development three years ago, and the resort is now scheduled to open at the end of the year. The centrepiece hotel for the resort is set to be The St. Regis Doha, while alongside this property the Al Gassar Resort Residences will consist of three towers, offering unique living experiences to residents of the city. Assistant COO, Resorts Development Company – the company behind the development of Al Gassar Resort – Mohamed Sleiman said: “With the Al Gassar Resort, we are building an entirely new luxury destination for Qatar, which will bring together the
unique hospitality traditions of St. Regis Hotels with the luxury hotel-like services that will be offered in the Al Gassar Resort Residences. We’ve invested a huge amount of time and energy in refining the exterior and facilities of this incredible resort, and we believe it will be an iconic destination when the development opens its doors in late 2011.” Al Gassar Resort enjoys close proximity to key business hubs, including the West Bay Business District and Doha Exhibition Centre. Leisure facilities include a large pool with sunbathing area, tennis courts, landscaped gardens, children’s area and a fully-equipped gym. There will also be a selection of restaurants on-site, as well as a range of shops and service counters.
Ambitious plans revealed The inaugural edition of the annual Airports Expansion, Cargo and Logistics Conference and Exhibition, organised by Arabian Reach, recently took place in Erbil, Iraq, and witnessed the participation of over 2,000 visitors from 33 countries. Amongst the key speakers at the conference was director, Erbil International Airport, Talar Faiq, who provided an overview of the airport's history, present and future. Specifically highlighting the new $300 million developments at the airport, Faiq stated: “The airport has undergone a number
June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
of major expansions and we are now proud to have one of the longest runways in the world at 4,800m. “Erbil International Airport works closely with 13 carriers, serving 23 destinations. In 2010, we recorded over 454,000 passengers, which marked an increase of 178 per cent in passenger traffic compared to 2006. “This also reflects the high safety and security standards that we adhere to, as well as our ambitious plans to be on par with the world's leading airports by offering state-ofthe-art facilities,” Faiq concluded.
flydubai increases KSA network
Q1 record for Jazeera Airways >>
NEWS
Answering the demand
Opening regional properties
atar Airways has announced that its corporate jet division, Qatar Executive is set to add three new Bombardier aircraft to its fleet. Meeting the growing demand for business jet services from the Middle East and globally, the carrier has taken measures to increase its fleet capacity in a bid to cater to the surge in private travel in the region and worldwide. The new deliveries are set to
Cristal Hotels & Resorts has recently launched Cristal Salam, a new hotel in the heart of the downtown banking district of Abu Dhabi, just a short drive from Abu Dhabi Airport. Comprising 112 rooms and suites, the property also offers its guests a state-of-theart conference and business centre, as well as a spa and an outdoor pool. Room features include an executive desk, a 32 inch LCD TV and high speed Internet access. Moreover, the property also offers three F&B outlets, namely Blendz coffee shop and lounge located on the lobby level; 2.35 all-day dining restaurant serving buffet and à la carte menus on the mezzanine floor; and Vertical wine bar serving a selection of wines, liquor, beer and cocktails. In addition, Cristal Hotels & Resorts has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bliss 3000 SAL to
see Qatar Exexutive double its all-Bombardier fleet to six aircraft by the end of August. The incoming deliveries include a Bombardier XRS last May, followed by a Challenger 605 this July, and a Global 5000 in August, the latter of which is the second delivery from an order for two Global 5000s announced at the Farnborough Air Show last July. CEO, Qatar Airways, Akbar Al Baker praised Qatar Executive’s rapid growth as
testament to the region's growing demand for more corporate jet travel saying: “When Qatar Executive first began, it was a successful operation right from the start. The travel patterns we witnessed from the onset were indicative of the pent-up demand for tailor-made and completely customised travel. "It immediately became obvious that we were filling a gap in a market which has grown rapidly, particularly in the Middle East region.”
Unleashing plans for MENA
The group currently has 43 regional hotels under development
Marriott International has announced the addition of six new properties to its Middle East and Africa pipeline of 37 previously-announced hotels. The new hotels represent three of Marriott’s lodging brands, serving the luxury, upper-moderately priced and extended-stay travel segments. Included in the list is the first Residence Inn by Marriott-branded property for extended-stay
travellers in the Middle East, which is set to open in Manama, Bahrain later this year. When all 43 hotels, now under development or construction, open by 2016, Marriott International will offer consumers 74 hotels and resorts and more than 17,600 rooms across seven lodging brands in the Middle East and Africa. “These new hotels will be perfectly positioned to help accommodate the nearly 90 million travellers that the WTTC estimates will visit the region annually by 2016,” commented president of international lodging, Marriott International, Ed Fuller. Other property’s that have been announced include the 335-room Courtyard by Marriott Cairo Mirage City, and the 495-room The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh, which is scheduled to open this year as the first Ritz-Carlton hotel in Saudi Arabia. Also part of The Ritz-Carlton brand, the 120room The Ritz-Carlton Rabat Hotel is set for a 2013 opening.
Hospitality rates on the rise
GIBTM is an event which aims to promote more business tourism into Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi has witnessed a 10 per cent rise in hotel guests in the first quarter of 2011 in comparison to 2010, with increases also recorded for guest nights, occupancy levels, revenue and length of stay according to Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA). “It’s been a sterling first quarter performance, much
of which can be attributed to the dynamic programme of events, both business and leisure, which have taken place in the emirate over the past three months,” outlined director of strategy and policy, ADTA, Lawrence Franklin. “These events, combined with the pull of the Yas Island Weekends, which are serving
up an enticing mix of entertainment, hotel deals, golf and visits to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, have kept the momentum going, with the impact evident in the 13 per cent rise in average length of stay to just over three nights.” According to the latest ADTA figures, 510,114 guests stayed in Abu Dhabi’s hotels in the first three months of 2011, producing 1.56 million guest nights – up by a quarter on 2010. March achieved a nine per cent rise in hotel guests with 180,931 people checking into the emirate’s hotels. “We have set our sights on two million hotel guests this year and if the first quarter performance can be sustained throughout the remainder of 2011, we will certainly achieve our target,” Franklin stated. June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
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The property also offers Figure 8 Health Club providing an extensive range of cutting-edge fitness equipment
operate the latter’s property in Beirut, Lebanon. The agreement was sealed during the 2011 ATM, and marks Cristal Hotels & Resorts’ first venture in Lebanon. Under the terms of the MoU, Cristal Hotels & Resorts is set to operate the furnished apartments under the name Cristal Bliss Residences. The newly renovated and fullyfurnished studios are designed to appeal to both corporate
and leisure guests as they are within walking distance of the Corniche, Hamra Street, the American University of Beirut and the American University Hospital. Cristal Bliss Residences is set to be operational as of June, 2011. “Cristal Bliss Residences is only the start of major projects we have lined up to tap Lebanon’s dynamic hospitality market,” commented CEO, Cristal Hotels & Resorts, Peter Blackburn.
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NEWS
<< Gulf Air adds 1,700 seats
Jumeirah considers Saadiyat hotel
Inspired by nature’s elements
Enhancing Dubai offerings
Mövenpick Hotel & Resort Beirut has announced the completion of a renovation project across its guestrooms and club floor. The soft renovation included the transformation of the hotel's 262 rooms into more technologically advanced living spaces, in the hopes that the new rooms will help target more business and leisure guests to the property. New in-room amenities include hospitality trays, LCD screens and free high-speed Internet connection.
The Rezidor Hotel Group has recently announced that its seventh property in the UAE, Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Downtown, is now open. “The opening of this property is a further sign of the positive and optimistic atmosphere within our industry, which we also felt during AHIC and ATM. The markets are bouncing back and we see RevPAR increasing – fuelled by both occupancy and rate,” commented president, The Rezidor Hotel Group, Kurt Ritter. Located on the upper floors of a mixed-used building, the new full-service hotel is within walking distance from the Dubai Mall and just 10km from the international airport. Besides 220 contemporary rooms and 22 suites, the hotel also features ample meeting
The rooms at the property have been renovated with new amenities added
Regarded as the only city centre hotel with resort facilities located directly on the Mediterranean, Mövenpick Hotel & Resort Beirut is only
a 10-minute drive from Rafic Hariri International Airport and the Beirut Central District, and is easily found on the Corniche, near the famous Pigeon Rock.
Readying for new openings Rotana has recently announced plans to open two new properties in Dubai in the third quarter of 2011, namely the five-star Al Khor Rayhaan by Rotana and the deluxe hotel apartments, Al Khor Arjaan by Rotana, both of which will be part of the new expansion of the Al Ghurair Shopping complex. Following the opening of both hotels, Rotana will operate eight properties in the UAE under the Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana brand and three properties in the UAE under the alcohol free Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts by Rotana brand. “We are excited about the upcoming opening of our 15th Rotana property in Dubai which we are certain will meet the demands of guests seeking contemporary accommodation, convenience and paramount comfort,” commented
COO, Rotana, Omer Kaddouri. “Al Khor Rayhaan by Rotana and Al Khor Arjaan by Rotana are first-class properties, which have been developed with leisure, corporate, long-term guests and families in mind. The opening team, headed by the general manager Mark McCarthy, is working hard to ensure all areas of the opening are perfected and ready to open on time in the third quarter of this year,” he added. Both properties feature the latest facilities including a wide choice of F&B venues, a ballroom and six fully-equipped meeting rooms with up-to-date audio-visual equipment. Leisure facilities include Zen The Spa at Rotana, a swimming pool, a fully-fledged fitness centre, in addition to steam rooms, a Jacuzzi, sauna and massage rooms.
Securing next contract CapitaLand’s wholly-owned serviced residence business unit, The Ascott Limited (Ascott), has secured a contract to manage a 229-unit premiere serviced residence in Doha – its second property in the capital city of Qatar. The new property – Ascott Doha – is scheduled to open in the second half of 2011, following the recent addition of the 118-unit Ascott Park Place Dubai in the UAE. Upon completion, Ascott Doha will be the fifth Ascott-branded serviced residence across three cities in the Gulf region. Located at the north end of Corniche Bay and offering views of the Arabian Gulf, Ascott Doha is in close proximity to Doha’s diplomatic district. It is also within walking distance to the City Centre Mall.
The company also manages the 200-unit Somerset West Bay in Doha
Business travellers staying at Ascott Doha can enjoy easy access to the city’s top MICE venues with the Doha Exhibition Centre just a five-minute drive away, and the upcoming Doha International Conference and Exhibition Centre within walking distance. Commenting on Ascott’s
decision to further expand its operations in Doha, chief investment officer, The Ascott Limited, Ronald Tay remarked: “Qatar offers tremendous potential for Ascott as it is one of the fastest growing countries in the world due to its huge oil and gas reserves. "Its economy is set for double-digit growth this year with further expansion expected over the coming years. Moreover, Qatar has been aggressively promoting tourism and will be hosting large-scale international events such as the 2022 FIFA World Cup. "Having a second serviced residence in Doha should allow us to cater to the strong demand for quality accommodation from the influx of business and leisure travellers,” Tay concluded.
Key destinations close by include Dubai World Trade Centre
facilities including six conference rooms, two board rooms and a business centre, as well as a swimming pool and a gym. Moreover, the property offers a range of F&B outlets such as the Lemon Pepper restaurant and Infiniti Bar & Terrace. Dubai Downtown is a new hub in Dubai, hosting top
attractions including Burj Khalifa, the tallest tower in the world; Dubai Mall, the world’s largest mall; the waterfall promenade and Souk Al Bahar. The hotel also borders Business Bay, a megaproject covering an area of six million m², which is designed to become the new centre of Dubai commerce.
Unleashing expansion strategy
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ithin its strategy of delivering optimum service to customers, Egyptair has announced that it has started operating the Cairo – Bangkok route using the newest B777-300ER. Chairman, Egyptair, Ayman Nasr commented: "Egyptair has now adopted an expansion strategy that aims to link the world using modern fleet through Cairo. Based on our experience with the B777-300ER, we are keen to provide our customers in the Far East with a luxurious travel experience by operating the newest B777-300ER between Cairo and Bangkok.” Vice president of sales, Boeing Commercial
Airplanes – Middle East, Russia and Central Asia, Marty Bentrott added: "The Middle East is one of the world's fastest growing aviation markets and Egyptair is well positioned to take advantage of this growth. "Boeing is keen to play a role in the airline's long-term strategy and the Boeing 777-300ER has the payload range capability, economic efficiency and passenger comfort to support Egyptair's goals for growth, profitability and world-class service," he continued. Egyptair’s new B777-300ER provides a number of new services, such as dedicated power outlets to recharge personal, lie-flat beds and 15 inch personal entertainment screens.
Soaring occupancy rates Hotel occupancy rates have continued to surge in Doha in the first three months of 2011, according to statistics released by Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA). Most hotels in the country have noted a 10 per cent rise in occupancy rates for the first part of 2011, compared to the same period the previous year. Meanwhile, the number of GCC visitors to Qatar has increased by 48 per cent, to 213,058 tourists over the first three months of 2011. Spurred on by the Asian
June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
Football Cup held in Doha in January, 2011, hotel occupancy rates for that month were 24 per cent higher than for January, 2010. On average, hotel occupancy rates were nine per cent higher for the first quarter of 2011, at 68 per cent, compared to 59 per cent in 2010. The month of February also saw a significant increase of six per cent over 2010. In other figures released by QTA, the increase in hotel occupancy rates coincided with a surge in hotel revenues. Revenues for five-star
establishments in the first three months of 2011 stood at $159 million, nearly 20 per cent higher than the revenues earned for the same period in 2010. January 2011’s revenues for five-star hotels in Qatar alone were more than $56 million, an almost 60 per cent increase over 2010. Meanwhile, QTA has revealed that there are currently 77 new hotels and 42 hotel apartments under construction in Qatar. This will bring a total of 21,107 new rooms into the Qatari hospitality market.
Sofitel plans UAE hotels
Traveltek expands in Middle East >>
NEWS
Making a debut in Qatar
Continued regional growth
Qatar Foundation (QF) has recently announced that Solís Doha, a new five-star hotel in Qatar, is expected to open in 2015, marking the debut of the Solís Hotels & Resorts brand in the region. Chairman, Solís Hotels & Resorts, Horst Schulze expressed his excitement for the new property, stating: “We are very excited to be able to provide hospitality standards that will be a source of pride for Qatar Foundation. "We seek out unique opportunities with special hotels, and Solís Doha certainly falls into that category.”
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has announced an agreement with Abu Dhabi National Hotels (ADNH) to operate a waterfront hotel in Abu Dhabi, expected to open in late 2011. The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal is set to feature 447 guestrooms and suites, as well as 85 one- and twobedroom villas, each ranging from 90m² to 130m² in size, and complete with outdoor terraces and personalised butler service. The Ritz-Carlton Club, a private floor accessible only by elevator key, is being incorporated into the hotel, offering five complimentary F&B presentations throughout the day and a dedicated concierge service. A 1,500m² ballroom, which is divisible by three, along with an additional 11 meeting rooms, a 2,000m² ESPA wellness facility and a 1,600m² outdoor swimming pool are also set to be
Solís Doha is set to offer 418 guestrooms and suites with a private entrance and elevator for the penthouse and royal suites.
17,000ft² of breakout, prefunction and exhibit space, four board rooms and six meeting rooms. All meeting space in the
We seek opportunities with special hotels, and Sol›s Doha certainly falls into that category. The hotel’s meeting and event space is set to comprise a grand ballroom covering 17,216ft², more than
hotel is set to be complemented with the latest in audio-visual and communications technologies.
Property refurbishment
Melhem: We are aiming to maintain customer loyalty
Fujairah-based Al Diar Siji Hotel has announced that it is currently investing heavily
in refurbishing much of the property, in order to further improve its product offering. The first phase of the refurbishment at the five-star hotel covered the ballroom and public area, including the lobby lounge, which has already been completed. Carpets in the Masafi Ballroom have been changed, together with the Masafi Foyer, while the meetings and conferences facilities have also been upgraded, with two new meetings rooms added. “With these refurbishments, we aim to maintain customer loyalty by always meeting our guests' expectations,” explained general manager, Al
Diar Siji Hotel, Fouad Melhem. “To remain competitive within the market, the hotel’s guestrooms will also be refreshed with new carpets and paintings, as well as updating the furniture and fittings.” The third phase of the refurbishment project is expected to cover other recreation facilities in the hotel including the health club and the bowling centre. “Overall, our ultimate goal for the refurbishment is to use more natural elements and create a more relaxing atmosphere,” Melhem continued. “We expect to finish the whole project by the end of the summer season.”
The Abu Dhabi-based hotel is expected to open in late 2011
offered within the property, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal will be the company’s third hotel in the UAE. “This property will be a welcome landmark, and together with the ADNH, we will create a prestigious luxury hotel that will be the highlight of the new waterfront development,” stated president, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, Herve Humler. In addition, the company has
announced plans to continue its expansion in the Middle East with its first hotel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The 493-room Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh is expected to be situated within the diplomatic quarter, next to the King Abdul Aziz Conference Centre. “We are pleased that The RitzCarlton, Riyadh represents our first venture into the Kingdom, and it is a magnificent addition to our international portfolio,” added Humler.
Expected rise in popularity
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ccording to new findings released by Dubai Airports as part of a ten year traffic forecast for Dubai International Airport and Dubai World Central-Al Maktoum International, passenger numbers are expected to rise by 7.2 and 6.7 per cent respectively from next year, in a forecast that outperforms the five per cent global average. Dubai Airports further predicts that 75 million passengers will have passed through the airports by 2015.
These statistics follow previous positive passenger growth numbers in 2009, when the amount of international passengers grew by 9.1 per cent over the previous year. Dubai World Central-Al Maktoum International is currently being used as a cargo hub, and is scheduled to begin receiving passengers from 2012. Dubai Airports' has projected that the number of these passengers will reach 98.5 million by 2020.
An increased presence
Global network development
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has announced plans to expand its presence in Sharjah, with the expected opening of the 220-room Four Points by Sheraton Sharjah Hotel in 2013. “We are delighted to debut our Four Points by Sheraton brand in Sharjah,” stated president, Starwood Hotels & Resorts – Europe, Africa and Middle East, Roeland Vos. “With the combination of rich culture and tradition, a robust economy and endless sunshine, Sharjah is poised to revive its position as a major travel destination in the region.” Set to be located on King Faisal Road in downtown
Emirates Airline has recently announced plans to start flying to Argentina's capital city, Buenos Aires by January 2012. The Dubai – Rio de Janeiro – Buenos Aires service is set to be operated by a Boeing 777300ER aircraft, offering eight first class private suites, 42 lie-flat seats in business class and 304 seats in economy. Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro will mark Emirates Airline’s second and third destinations within South America, as the airline currently operates a daily service to Sao Paulo, Brazil. In a move to support the Tunisian tourism industry and to provide passengers with more flexible travel options, Emirates Airline has also launched an additional weekly flight between Dubai and Tunis, now operating four flights per week between the two cities. Currently, Emirates Airlines' flights to Tunis are served by an Airbus A330-200 aircraft offering 237 seats in a three class configuration.
Sharjah, Four Points by Sheraton Sharjah Hotel will comprise 187 rooms and 33 suites, an all-day dining restaurant, a fitness centre, an outdoor pool, four meeting rooms and a business centre. In addition, the company has signed an agreement with Abdulsalam Alrafi Group to open a new Sheraton hotel in Dubai, which is scheduled to open at the beginning of 2014. “Starwood is established as the sector leader in the Middle East, and we are dedicated to continued growth and expansion in the region. This market continues to be integral to our overall development strategy,” said Vos.
The Sharjah property offers 220 keys
Sheraton Dubai Sheikh Zayed Road Hotel is part of the brand’s global strategic expansion plan that includes adding more than 60 new hotels and over 20,000 rooms to the Sheraton portfolio over the next three years.
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June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
"Emirates Airline is committed to offering its customers the best travel experience on the market and now customers in Tunisia have even more convenient access to our network of over 110 global destinations," said senior vice president, commercial operations – Africa, Emirates Airline, Jean Luc Grillet. This month is also set to see Emirates Airline send its A380 aircraft to Rome to mark Fiumicino Airport's 50th anniversary and 150 years of Italian unification. The one-off trip gives passengers travelling to and from Rome an opportunity to fly on the airliner which demonstrates the future of aviation, according to senior vice president, commercial operations – Europe and the Russian Federation, Emirates Airline, Salem Obaidalla. “This aircraft is sought after by travellers around the world, and now passengers travelling between Dubai and Rome have an opportunity to enjoy our superjumbo."
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CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY NEWS
Answering the demand
The property is aiming to be more environmentally friendly
Beirut-based Coral Suites – Al Hamra has recently revealed that it is introducing a range of measures designed to conserve, preserve and recycle in all areas. The 100-room hotel has committed itself
Responsible tourism platform
to a green programme that is set to see both staff and guests work to save more water and energy, as well as utilising environmentallyfriendly materials. According to general manager, Coral Suites – Al Hamra, Philippe Lamadieu, the new moves are just the beginning of a comprehensive strategy to re-align traditional operating practices at the property in accordance with new customer demands. “Guests are now beginning to demand that their choice of accommodation fulfils their own green principles, and we know that all hotels in the future will have to act in an environmentally friendly manner or suffer the consequences of reduced demand.” A recent survey by sustainability performance consultants, MindClick SGM revealed that 65 per cent of corporate travel executives responsible for multi-million dollar travel budgets, are implementing green business travel guidelines, while online giant Travelocity is now catering to the demand for more environmentally responsible hotels with a new green travel directory. “With both leisure and corporate guests amongst our clientele, we have to lead the way in accommodating this new demand,” concluded Lamadieu.
Organisers of World Green Tourism Abu Dhabi, a commercial conference and exhibition designed specifically for the sustainable tourism sector, have been urging travel trade decision makers to put sustainability at the top of their agenda for the remainder of 2011. The second edition of the event, launched in the UAE capital last November, is set to take place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from December 5 to 7, 2011, and is designed to drive green tourism initiatives. The event, which is organised by Streamline Marketing Group, aims to provide global experts and travel trade professionals with a platform to tackle key challenges, including
the task of meeting the growing demand for more responsible tourism destinations. “We attended the recently concluded Arabian Travel Market to impress upon senior industry professionals that the regional travel trade now has a unique opportunity to come together and increase learning on sustainability and its growing significance,” said director, Streamline Marketing Group, Oisin Commane. “It is acknowledged that there is a great deal of work to do in this region to establish a more sustainable tourism infrastructure in line with modern demands and expectations, and this can be the year in which we take significant steps forward.”
Helping through sport Saadiyat Beach Golf Club (SBGC) has hosted a special charity golf day which saw proceeds of over $7,000 go to the Embassy of Japan in the UAE, to support rescue efforts for the victims of the recent earthquake and tsunami. “We called on corporations and the golfing community across the UAE, to come out and support what was a fun tournament with a very serious objective,” said general manager, SBGC, Ray Manulat.
The event saw 100 players from across the UAE take part, and during the round of golf players tried their luck in the ‘Beat the Pro Challenge’, where any player who got closer than the pro on the green, won a prize. To conclude the proceedings, participants and guests enjoyed a Japanese-themed post event banquet at Hawksbill restaurant, which featured special offers on selected Japanese beverages and a fresh Sushi buffet.
Teamwork the key to success amada Plaza Doha’s ‘Green Team’ has recently collected and deposited three truck loads of e-waste, as it aims to continue its corporate social responsibility initiatives. Each truck was packed with discarded items such as old computer monitors, computer hard drives, washing machines, printers, cookers, photocopiers, mobile phones and old car batteries. Members from the ‘Green Team’ took the items to Hyatt Plaza, where Qtel – a telecommunications service provider – was holding an ewaste drop day. The hotel had been holding onto the items for some time so they could June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
Large quantities of e-waste were dropped off to be recycled
be recycled properly. This latest initiative was carried out to complement the introduction of paper recycling bins in all offices, following the recent delivery of
50 blue paper recycling bins. The ‘Green Team’ is made up of members of staff who predominantly drive forward all types of green and considerate initiatives.
INTERNATIONAL International News Round Up China: China has emerged as a key upcoming market that the travel and tourism industry should heavily focus on over the next five years, according to new research revealed at the recently held WTM Vision Conference in Milan. China is predicted to be the biggest outbound tourism market for the emerging BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India and China) economies, with a total of 20 million trips until 2015, the Euromonitor International report – which was launched at the first session of WTM Vision Conference – revealed. Malaysia: In response to the heavy market demand for flights to Sabah in Malaysia, Hong Kong Airlines has recently launched two flights per week between Hong Kong and Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Together with other airlines, flights from Hong Kong to Kota Kinabalu will be increased to 21 flights per week. Boeing 738 aircraft are being operated for the Sabah flight route, with 158 passengers on each flight. Mexico: Rosewood Hotels & Resorts and Sense Spas are celebrating the opening of a new location, namely Sense Spa at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende. Inspired by the brand’s signature 'A Sense of Place' philosophy, The Mole Scrub will be on offer to guests as it has been created to embrace the local culture and flavour of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. “This Mole Scrub experience is very special and demonstrates how all Sense Spas uniquely blend their local culture into the finest spa services while applying the best ingredients and expertly trained technicians,” stated corporate spa director, Rosewood Sense Spas, Jennifer Haack.
Continental hub revealed
Courtenay: This is a very exciting project for Private Jet Charter
Private Jet Charter, one of the world's largest independent private jet charter brokers and consultants, has unveiled an aggressive expansion plan in North America by establishing a regional office in Fort Lauderdale, to serve as its
Georgia attracts GCC travellers The Georgian National Tourism Agency (GNTA) is actively seeking to attract more leisure and business travellers from the Middle East, as chairwoman, GNTA, Maia Sidamonidze outlined: “The Middle East, particularly the GCC region indicates significant growth in Georgia’s incoming tourism, particularly in the premium and luxury category.
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“The first quarter of 2011 showed a 19 per cent increase in leisure and business visitors from this region, compared to the same quarter in 2009. “Georgia as a country presents a lot of vibrant tourism offers that these travellers would find very appealing, but it is undersold due to a lack of awareness among the region’s travel trade," she concluded.
Sidamonidze: The Middle East indicates significant growth in Georgia’s incoming tourism
Debuting property in Jakarta Best Western International is now welcoming guests to its newest hotel in Indonesia, namely Best Western Mangga Dua Hotel and Residence, in Jakarta. The newly-built hotel is Best Western’s first property in Jakarta and the third in Indonesia. “The opening of Best Western Mangga Dua Hotel and Residence is proof of Best Western’s commitment to expand its portfolio in Indonesia – one of the fastest growing countries in Southeast Asia in terms of tourism and hospitality,” stated vice president international
charter hub for the US and Canada. Founder, Private Jet Charter, Hugh Courtenay said that the Fort Lauderdale office will be the company’s fifth in its network, complementing locations in London, Nice, Dubai and Moscow. “After expanding our activities in the US market, we are now in the perfect position to set up new offices staffed by a team of specialist aviation consultants and led by our experienced operations director, Shaun Elliott,” outlined Courtenay. “This is a very exciting project for Private Jet Charter, as the American market has grown significantly in the past year achieving exponential growth. “Our site selection process initially focused on Las Vegas or Chicago, but the presence of the Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport – one of the nation’s busiest – and the assistance provided by the Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance CEO Council and City of Fort Lauderdale Economic Development officials, motivated us that Fort Lauderdale was indeed the right choice to use as a platform for the entire North American market,” Courtenay added.
Facilities in abundance nantara is soon set to enter Vietnam for the first time, with the upcoming opening of Anantara Mui Ne Resort & Spa, scheduled for autumn 2011. Located 198km northeast of Ho Chi Minh City on the southeast coast of Vietnam, Anantara Mui Ne Resort & Spa has been named after Mui Ne fishing village, which is surrounded by long beaches, mountains and desert-like sand dunes. In total 89 rooms, suites and pool villas are due to be incorporated within the property, with
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rooms and suites ranging from 42m² while the presidential suite is sized at 178m². In addition, the 20 pool villas ranging from 92m² to 128 m², offer a private lounge, open-air bathroom, private swimming pool, and boast views overlooking the gardens, lagoon, pool or beachfront. F&B outlets and wellness facilities are also set to be on offer throughout the property, while banqueting, event and meeting facilities include five conference rooms for up to 250 participants. June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
operations – Asia and Middle East, Best Western International, Glenn de Souza. Offering 148 rooms and 20 suites, Best Western Mangga Dua Hotel and Residence is situated in the busy Mangga Dua shopping area, and is in close proximity to tourist attractions such as the National Monument and Istiqlal Mosque, as well as the presidential palace. Facilities at the hotel include an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant and lounge bar, steam room and sauna, a convenience store, massage service and eight meeting rooms.
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DESTINATION JORDAN
An oasis of peace Demonstrating qualities of peace and stability, Jordan is currently leading the way in several touristic niches, in this way becoming favoured in the region by a diverse range of travellers, while taking shape as the next boutique destination of the Middle East. Andreas Stylianou reports
escribed as ‘an oasis of peace’ by managing director, Jordan Tourism Board (JTB), Nayef Al-Fayez, Jordan is currently taking advantage of its status as a country of civil stability and touristic appeal. “We are now concentrating on inviting press to the country to show them that Jordan is a democratic country which is stable and peaceful,” marketing manager, JTB, Mahfouz Kishek told TTG. “In current times we are trying to send the message that everything is normal and that Jordan is a safe, democratic country.” Speaking to TTG about the board’s efforts to move away from Jordan being marketed in packages with its surrounding countries, Kishek said: “Jordan’s should be promoted as a standalone destination as it has so much to offer any type of traveller. Jordan is a year-round destination with so many things to do.” Now focusing on further developing its six elements of touristic appeal, namely eco and nature, history and culture, leisure and wellness, as well as adventure, religious and MICE tourism, Jordan is also aiming to concentrate on becoming a luxurious niche destination, which can cater with ease to the demands of a variety of markets. “We will never be a mass tourism destination, Jordan is instead turning into a luxury, boutique destination,” Kishek noted. Eco and nature tourism, as well as history and culture tourism seem to be picking up particularly well, as 975,000 tourists visited Petra National Park in 2010, while half a million visited the country’s nature reserves last year, followed by over 400,000 visitors at both the Roman city of Jerash and the mosaic city of Madaba. “Eco tourism has developed in recent years in protected areas including Petra, Dana, Wadi Feynan, Wadi Rum, Ajloun, Dubeen and Azraq,” stated director, Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature, Yehya Khaled. “The major challenges we seek to address are people’s view of reserves as obstacles to development projects, the need to regulate land use around the reserves, as well as resources for sustaining its infrastructure and socio-economic projects,” he continued.
We will never be a mass tourism destination, Jordan is instead turning into a luxury, boutique destination.
DESTINATION JORDAN “As the number of tourists to Jordan's nature reserves increased, economic conditions of local communities around the reserves have boomed. Over two million dollars were generated from eco-tourism activities in the Kingdom's different reserves last year, excluding Wadi Rum,” he explained. In addition, Petra has emerged as a top travel destination for 2011, according to TripAdvisor.com which ranked the UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the 25 top destinations in its 2011 Travellers Choice Destination Awards. Breaking records Also providing evidence of the country’s rising standing as a Middle Eastern tourism hub, Queen Alia International Airport’s (QAIA) passenger traffic surpassed the elusive five million mark for the first time in history, reaching 5.4 million passengers in 2010 and marking a 13.7 per cent increase in passenger arrivals compared to the 4.7 million recorded in 2009. Aircraft Movements (ACMs) for 2010 also witnessed strong growth with some 62,900 throughout the year, an 8.8 per cent increase compared to the 57,800 of 2009. Commenting on these results, CEO, Airport International Group
percentages which were at 29 per cent at the end of December, 2009 and stood at 61.8 per cent overall in December, 2010. "The construction of the new terminal is witnessing tangible progress, with the main terminal and first stage of the passengers piers due to open in mid-2012, which will revolutionise QAIA and better serve our rapidly growing market," commented Grad. Jordan’s ambassadors Meanwhile, the flag carrier of the Kingdom, RJ is also experiencing several developments in a bid to become the preferred regional carrier, including the recent reception of a newly manufactured Airbus A320 on April 29. With this latest addition the RJ fleet now comprises 32 aircraft serving 59 destinations. The new aircraft will serve medium-range routes and is the first of seven new Airbus A320 and 321 that are planned to be introduced over the next couple of years. With plans in place to further modernise the rest of its mediumhaul fleet, RJ also has its sights set on replacing its current six Airbus A320s and 321s with newly manufactured models. Additional plans include the addition of one brand new aircraft, bringing the total medium-haul fleet up to seven. After receiving
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of an increased tourism influx, as a recent MENA hospitality report published by Al Taameer Real Estate Investment has revealed. The report stated that Amman recorded a year-on-year (YoY) increase of 5.4 per cent in January 2011, reaching 49.5 per cent, and recorded a double-digit increase in RevPAR in the same month, rising by 16 per cent to reach $75.72. Meanwhile, room keys are also increasing in line with demand, with new hotels and resorts opening throughout the country. One of the most recent examples is the newly unveiled 181-room Doubetree by Hilton, Aqaba, which opened in the first quarter of 2011. “It is the first Hilton Worldwide property to open in Jordan, an important market for us in our regional development strategy. We will soon be able to provide business and leisure travellers with group packages linking in all the country’s tourist destinations,” vice president of operations, Hilton Worldwide Egypt and Levant, Christian Grage told TTG. Additionally, the company will shortly also be opening Hilton Tala Bay Aqaba, a 346-room property overlooking the Red Sea coast and the mountains to the west. Located in the Tala Bay Resort Complex, home to a 30,000m² yacht harbour, guests will also have access to recreational facilities including a golf course, beach club and a water garden.
QAIA's continued growth demonstrates the resilience of the Jordanian market and our unique position as a preferred regional hub and airport of choice. (AIG), Curtis Grad said: "We are extremely pleased with our 2010 performance, QAIA now ranks as one of the fastest growing airports in the region in terms of passenger volumes, as well as flight activity. Since assuming operations of QAIA in 2007, AIG has been extremely keen on developing new routes, services and frequencies.” AIG has also just announced QAIA’s passenger and aircraft movement traffic results for the first quarter of 2011. The airport welcomed over 1.12 million passengers in the first quarter of 2011, experiencing a 2.4 per cent increase compared to the 1.09 million recorded in 2010. Moreover, ACMs for the quarter rose by 3.1 per cent with 14,419 movements compared to 13,989 in 2010. "We are pleased with these results. QAIA's continued growth demonstrates the resilience of the Jordanian market and our unique position as a preferred regional hub and airport of choice, which has been further reinforced by the open skies agreement recently signed between Jordan and the EU,” noted Grad. This growth is partly due to the host of developments occurring at the airport over recent years. Such changes include the welcoming of a multitude of new carriers, routes and additional flight frequencies from a broad range of scheduled air carriers including Royal Jordanian (RJ), Air Arabia, Austrian Airlines, Alitalia and flydubai. One of the most recent entries is low-cost carrier easyjet, which launched a new service to the Jordanian capital of Amman from London Gatwick at the end of March. And with the $750 million rehabilitation and expansion works at QAIA well underway, including the construction of a new stateof-the-art 100,000m² passenger terminal, incoming passenger growth is expected to climb even further over the coming years. The progress of the new terminal is reflected in the completion
the seven aircraft, the medium-range fleet will comprise 13 new aircraft of the A320 family. Furthermore, at the beginning of 2014, the airline is set to receive the first three of 11 Boeing 787s, which were contracted in a bid to modernise the long-range fleet. The remaining eight aircraft are set to be delivered in 2016 and 2017. Speaking to TTG about developments within the carrier’s network, president, RJ, Hussein Dabbas said: “RJ announced that it will re-open direct, regular services between Amman and Berlin in June 2011, as there is growth in demand for travel between the Jordanian and German capitals, mainly due to the increased movement of tourists from Germany to the Kingdom. “The airline is also considering operations to Lagos, Nigeria, and other destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, Johannesburg, Casablanca, Algeria, Luxor and Aswan in the future,” he told TTG. Other news within Jordan’s aviation industry includes the launch of Petra Airlines, a new regional airline which commenced operations on December 1, 2010. Commenting on the airline’s most recent developments and upcoming plans, commercial director, Petra Airlines, Marwan Shennara told TTG: “We recently started flying to Saudi Arabia and Turkey and will expand to Europe as of July onwards.” Speaking to TTG about the reasons behind the route expansion, Shennara noted: “We hope to encourage incoming tourism to the country and contribute, together with the official organisations, in maintaining the country’s perception in terms of stability." Advancing hospitality As more tourists pour into the country to enjoy its vast touristic offering, hospitality establishments are also reaping the benefits June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
Furthermore, as part of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts' efforts to advance its establishments in line with present global hospitality requirements, the five properties in Jordan, are the first hotels in the Kingdom to receive Green Globe Certificates. The Jordanian properties include Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea, Mövenpick Resort & Residence Aqaba, Mövenpick Resort & Spa Tala Bay Aqaba and two hotels in Petra, Mövenpick Resort Petra and Mövenpick Nabatean Castle Hotel. All hotels were recently audited and measured in over 350 standards. Mövenpick Resort & Spa Tala Bay Aqaba is the company’s latest addition in the country, having only opened its doors to guests in August, 2010. “The resort is spread out over a very large area and gives privacy and tranquillity to the guests, as it is well insulated from any street noise,” communications manager, Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea, Nour Al-Saber told TTG. “With a wide selection of restaurant and bars, a top class spa with 11 treatment rooms, a Hydro pool and state-of-art equipment, as well as over 3000m² of water features and direct access to 150m of private beach, Mövenpick Resort & Spa Tala Bay Aqaba is very unique in the country. “And with over 20 nationalities, the resort has gained a countrywide reputation for its friendly team, and has been rated as number one in Aqaba on the Trip Advisor website," she concluded. Finally, commenting on Marriott International's expected opening in Aqaba, vice president, regional sales and marketing – Middle East, Marriott International, Jeff Strachan told TTG: “We are excited about our JW Marriott Hotel in Aqaba, Jordan which is currently under development. Driving this development is the long-term attractiveness of the Red Sea as a popular warm weather destination for Europeans and water sports enthusiasts.”
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DESTINATION JORDAN
Timeless property development
Ressa: We are also in the process of creating a sustainable meeting room
Having recently undergone a full refurbishment project, Le Méridien Amman has just re-opened its Grand Ballroom. The ballroom is one of the most popular venues for both social events and conferences in Amman, and offers a great opportunity for both guests and visitors to experience a truly chic venue, according to general manager, Le Méridien Amman, Giuseppe Ressa.
Speaking to TTG about the hotel’s latest developments Ressa said: “We have just re-opened Le Méridien Amman’s new main entrance, which has been re-modelled and will add timeless, uncontained space to the lobby, offering guests the perfect balance of public versus private space to enhance their arrival experience. The large and vivid Wind Flower artwork on the glass doors, designed by Younis Rahmoun, will hopefully spark conversation amongst the guests." Speaking to TTG about the property’s unique selling points, Ressa commented: “We are located in the heart of Amman, within close proximity to the most vital business sectors, such as banks and touristic areas, the citadel and roman theatre. “Moreover, Le Méridien Amman is the largest hotel in Amman, with 430 rooms and suites and the largest room space in comparison with other five-star properties in the capital,” he continued. “We also have seven F&B outlets; Lebanese, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, a steak house, a Tiffany bar and La Brasserie all day dining, in addition to having the largest convention centre in Amman; the Royal Convention Centre, accommodating up to 1,000 guests,” Ressa concluded.
Attracting the cream of the crop Following the renovation of all 281 rooms at Le Royal Hotel Amman, the property has become a business and leisure must-attend destination with upper-scale clients, according to marketing manager, Le Royal Hotels & Resorts – Amman, Suzan Jaber, who told TTG: “We have renewed 281 rooms with superbly furnished rooms and suites, and the hotel has become the business and pleasure location of celebrities, diplomatic circles and VIP business people.” Other news at the property includes the openings of two new F&B outlets, namely the Shahrayar restaurant and Bodega restaurant. “Shahrayar provides an Arabian setting for Lebanese specialties where guests can enjoy a sumptuous variety of mezze, grilled meats and Arabic deserts that will keep guests coming back for
The hotel’s room inventory includes 34 suites, including two royal suites
more,” Jaber told TTG. “And the Bodega – the only wine bar in town that features a selection of 32 wines – adds a visual charm and a sense of warmth; making it the perfect spot for a get together after work or before dinner.” Speaking to TTG about how the property differentiates itself from other hotels in Amman, Jaber commented: “Le Royal Hotel is located on a hilltop in the heart of the capital city. This ultra-modern hospitality complex atop
Jabal Amman stands out as the city’s loftiest structure, lending importance to all the streets adjoining it.” Speaking of one market that is scoring particularly well at the hotel, Jabel concluded: “MICE business is very popular at Le Royal Hotel Amman. Many international businesses such as the diplomatic sectors conduct general conferences, events and workshops here, as Jordan is suited for business and leisure travellers.”
Ensuring a perfect trip
Launching refurbished inventory
Abercrombie & Kent (A&K) Jordan, is working hard to better its services and come up with new and unique activities for clients. Speaking to TTG about the company’s services, managing director, A&K Jordan, Mohanad Malhas said: “A&K Jordan offers everything a traveller needs while in Jordan; accommodation at only the best hotels, the best guided visits of all our historical sites, 24-hour assistance and much more. "We have adopted a public school in Amman which is part of the Madrasati (My School) Initiative in Jordan. We have provided
Expecting to launch its complete inventory of refurbished guestrooms and suites by the end of the second quarter of 2011, Four Seasons Hotel Amman is set to further enhance its guests’ experience with the inclusion of new furnishings and accessories, in addition to iPod docking stations and flat screen televisions with interactive TV menus. “As a worldwide hotel group focused on each guest's individual needs, we are dedicated to not only maintaining the product our guests expect, but offering amenities and services they would want, but don't necessarily think to ask for,” general manager, Four Seasons Hotel Amman, Livio Faverio told TTG. “Our main goal is to exceed their expectations at every possible touch point. “Aside from the property's physical attributes such as the largest guestrooms in the city, and the list of amenities we offer, our main advantage is our people,” Faverio told TTG. “The caring, thoughtful and customised service we
many new facilities for the school and A&K Jordan can arrange visits for clients to the school, where they can have a true Jordanian cultural experience with the local community. This activity is exclusive to A&K Jordan,” Malhas highlighted. Further outlining the company’s unique features within Jordan, Malhas concluded: “We create once in a lifetime cultural activities for our clients, such as organising private dinners in the most spectacular locations like Little Petra. We operate around the clock to insure that our clients’ trips go smoothly."
General assembly meeting
T
he Jordan Inbound Tour Operators Association (JITOA) recently held its general assembly meeting for 2010 – 2011, in Holiday Inn Amman Hotel, to celebrate the great achievements of several projects which are set to enhance the future of inbound tourism to Jordan. The assembly included a discussion on the annual report submitted by the board of directors on the activities and achievements during 2010 and 2011.
It also included a review of the chartered auditor report and a discussion of the financial report, as well as the ratifying of the final statement of account for 2010, and the approval of the draft budget for the new fiscal year of 2011. Commenting on the annual report, chairman, JITOA, Mohammad Samih remarked: “Jordan Inbound Tour Operators Association has been empowered by the great efforts of its valued membership and sustainable projects. We are eager to add
many more achievements to our already accomplished success in Jordan's tourism sector to date.” Between 2010 and 2011, JITOA launched a number of projects, achieving progress in different areas. One example of this development includes the launch of the first Jordan Travel Market last year. Another benchmark in product development was the launch of the first VolunTourism Project Jordan, an initiative that is set to be extended in a second phase project this year.
June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
The hotel has recently refurbished its guestrooms
consistently deliver to our guests makes Four Seasons
Modern travellers are looking for a unique experience,
We are dedicated to maintaining the product our guests expect. Hotel Amman the leader in the market. We go to great lengths to make our level of service and the quality of our product truly exceptional.” Speaking to TTG about the trend of the modern traveller, and how the Four Seasons Hotel Amman caters to their needs, Faverio added: “We cannot call the modern traveller a tourist anymore.
aside from sightseeing and the collection of material memorabilia. He or she is in search of something special and bespoke. “As a group, we have always specialised in personalised service. Therefore, we have responded to this trend quite well by offering one-of-akind activities or excursions only available to our guests.”
DESTINATION JORDAN Newly renovated Jordan Valley Marriott Dead Sea Resort & Spa recently completed an extensive $2 million guestroom renovation. “The resort continues to set the bar for comfort and elegance,” e-commerce and marketing co-ordinator Jordan, Amman Marriott, Rawan Sabri told TTG. “The newly renovated rooms and suites deliver totally refurbished contemporary bedrooms, featuring rich new finishes, including carpets and chairs, while maintaining the functionality, spaciousness, design and casually elegant quality that has become the hallmark of the resort. “The new resort rooms offer a modern update to our classic resort room. Featuring a crisp, neutral and creamy décor which is accented by an array of contemporary furnishings and fabrics, as well as boasting the latest in cutting-edge technology and comfortable design features made from the finest materials. “The new guestrooms feature new sheers and curtains, bed throws and bed skirts. Each bedroom already has the new ‘Revive’ bedding package from Marriott that features designer duvets, fluffier pillows, 300 thread count linens and ultra thick mattresses with plush toppers,” Sabri continued. “New carpeting, lighting and extensive wood work in the corridors also add to the experience.” Speaking to TTG about the Amman based property’s unique qualities, Sabri concluded: “The Amman Marriott Hotel has very easy access to all business and tourist areas of Amman and Jordan, while accommodation in Amman could not be any better with our newly renovated rooms that guarantee a good night's sleep. “The Amman Marriott Hotel is Amman's preferred choice for business and social gatherings through its legendary service and the qualified staff and hotel facilities combined, translates into more comfort for each guest.”
Dead sea opening
W
arwick International Hotels (WIH) has entered into a management contract with Winter Valley Tourism Investment Company, to manage a four-star deluxe
Going all the way
well as three outdoor swimming pools and a kids club. Vice president of marketing, Warwick Group, Paul Leblanc noted: “Warwick International Hotels has a long track record in hotel management and we are convinced that our new Dead Sea Resort & Spa will be one of the tourism pearls in this part of the Middle East.”
The property is located in central Amman within easy reach of the business and tourism hubs of the city
First launched in 2010, Landmark Hotel Amman's 13th floor is set to welcome the Breath Argeeleh terrace and the Executive Zone this summer. “Landmark Hotel Amman is unlike any other hotel in Amman,” chairman, Landmark Hotels Company, Mary NazzalBatayneh told TTG. “The hotel is a contemporary hotel with a local twist. Among Landmark’s new outlets is Colours all day dining, Zest pool, Sugar Cube juice bar, Mint Lounge and Zone Bar.” Landmark Hotel Amman offers 260 guestrooms as well as conference and banqueting facilities offering the latest in audio-visual equipment. All function rooms in the hotel have also been recently renovated, and are now embedded with AV equipment. The first Jordanian owned and operated hotel company with a vision to expand regionally and internationally, future plans in the pipeline for Landmark Hotels Company includes the operation of beach resorts in both Lebanon and the Dead Sea, as well as hotels in Syria and Iraq.
Advancing in wellness luxury Kempinski Hotel Aqaba recently announced the grand opening of Kempinski The Spa on April 23, 2011. Measuring more than 800m² and sprawling across two floors, the spa boasts panoramic sea views, as well
Numerous renovations have taken place throughout the hotel
Following the renovation of the lobby lounge, ballroom and all meeting rooms at Sheraton Amman Al Nabil Hotel & Towers in 2010, the hotel has now also renovated all guestrooms, the Green Lounge and the health club, in a bid to accommodate the needs of the frequent traveller niche. Boasting a hilltop setting, Sheraton Amman Al Nabil Hotel & Towers is located in the heart of Amman’s embassy and business district. Comprising 268 soundproofed and air-conditioned rooms, further amenities and services include high-speed Internet access, butler service, 24-hour room service, private terraces and the signature Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed. “Knowing the importance of time, Sheraton Amman has dedicated a desk at the front office that offers fast check-in and check-out,” area
Phased progress
beach. This seaside resort is also equipped with a gourmet restaurant, a lobby cafe and bar, a deli, an outdoor dining area and a pool bar, in addition to featuring a ballroom with breakout rooms, a spa and gym, as
We are convinced that our new property will be one of the tourism pearls in this part of the Middle East. resort on the coast of the Dead Sea in Jordan. With a soft opening scheduled for August 2011, the grand opening is planned to take place before the end of this year. Known as the Winter Valley / Warwick Resort & Spa, Dead Sea, Jordan, the resort will consist of 161 rooms, each with a view over the Dead Sea and access to the
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director of sales and marketing – Levant, Sheraton Amman Al Nabil Hotel & Towers, Maysoun El-Kayyali informed TTG. “We have also provided a check-in service with airport pick-up that is booked through the hotel, wherby during the trip from Queen Alia Airport to the hotel, the guests can check-in and get their room keys and then go directly to their rooms upon arrival.” Speaking to TTG about further developments at the property, El-Kayyali concluded: “We have renovated the health club and installed new machines and equipment for the gym, which we now have open 24-hours a day for our inhouse guests. And as there are some guests that care about food quality and lean towards healthy food choices, Sheraton Amman now provides a healthy food menu.”
Aqaba and Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea, Dina Alramadneh told TTG. “We have also launched specially tailor-made promotions covering luxury lifestyle, pampering wellbeing, fun family summer pro-
with an easy convenient luxurious retreat from the capital for the day.” Speaking to TTG about recent travel trends in Jordan, Alramadneh added: “While the number of tour visitors has reduced in some traditional key
We are expecting the number of guests this summer to our properties in Jordan to grow significantly. as a five-star fitness centre, sauna, steam room and relaxation lounge. "The regional sales and marketing team for both Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea and Kempinski Hotel Aqaba have announced the launch of the new summer promotions as we are expecting the number of guests this summer to our properties in Jordan to grow significantly,” e-commerce executive, Kempinski Hotel
June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
grammes and the flexibility to discover Jordan's cultural highlights and dramatic scenery,” Alramadneh continued. “Additionally, we have also launched the new week-day use package. This programme offers personal day use to clients wishing to take advantage of Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea's spectacular Anantara Spa and to enjoy dining delights prepared by our executive chef. This promotion has been created to provide our clients
feeder markets from Europe, we have seen growth from our regional markets and our response is to divert our key sales and marketing efforts to this region. “For example we attended ATM in Dubai, we will complete sales calls in the GCC region and we have recently launched a number of promotions in the GCC, specifically designed to cater to the markets needs for luxury lifestyle and family short breaks,” she concluded.
14 UPDATE AlGERIA & LIBYA Discovering new destinations
LIBYA FAST FACTS... Did you know: ~ With an area of almost 1,800,000km2 Libya is the fourth largest country
in Africa by area, and the 17th largest in the world.
~ Libya is bound to the north by the Mediterranean Sea, the west by
Tunisia and Algeria, the southwest by Niger, the south by Chad and Sudan and to the east by Egypt.
~ At 1,770km Libya's coastline is the longest of any African country
bordering the Mediterranean.
~ The capital, Tripoli, is home to 1.7 million of Libya's 6.4 million people. The adjacent conference centre will help attract business guests
~ The three traditional parts of the country are Tripolitania, Fezzan,
S
and Cyrenaica.
~ The currency in Libya is Libyan Dinar (LBY). ~ The official language spoken in Libya is Arabic. ~ The climate is mostly dry and desert-like in nature, however, the
northern regions enjoy a milder Mediterranean climate.
~ Libya is a predominantly desert country. Up to 90 per cent of the land
area is covered in desert.
~ Libya boasts a number of archaeological sites including Leptis Magna,
which is widely considered to be one of the best preserved Roman archaeological sites in the world.
~ The nation's capital, Tripoli, boasts many museums and archives; these
include the Government Library, the Ethnographic Museum, the Archaeological Museum, the National Archives, the Epigraphy Museum and the Islamic Museum.
Marriott International’s hotel development pipeline in North Africa continues strong, with plans in place for a handful of openings in Algeria in the coming years.
Our development opportunities in the region remain strong. “Despite recent economic and political uncertainties in the Middle East and the northern tier of Africa, our development opportunities in the region remain strong,”
The hotel will form part of a larger complex, including an adjacent conference and exhibition centre and an oceanfront promenade. Recreational facilities at the hotel are planned to include an outdoor pool area and a significant health club on the second floor. The hotel will also feature a modern spa equipped with private treatment rooms, a hammam, a Jacuzzi and a beauty salon. The conference centre
ALGERIA FAST FACTS... Did you know:
Development pipeline ahead
The Tlemcen property offers 204 guestrooms
tarwood Hotels and Resorts is set to welcome a new property in Algeria to its portfolio this year, with the scheduled opening of Le Méridien Oran Hotel & Convention Centre in July. Located in the city of Oran, on Algeria’s northwestern Mediterranean coast, Le Méridien Oran Hotel & Convention Centre is situated on a high cliff and boasts views over the Mediterranean Sea and the city centre.
will include a 3,000-seat auditorium, with state-ofthe-art technology, making it Algeria’s most important conference venue, and one of the few in Africa able to host large-scale conferences. The 296-room hotel integrates all of Le Méridien’s latest brand features, with a special focus on mixing contemporary culture with European heritage. Elsewhere, Starwood Hotels and Resorts also has plans to open a new Sheraton-branded property in the Libyan capital of Tripoli in September 2012. Situated on nearly two miles of Mediterranean beachfront, Sheraton Tripoli Hotel is conveniently located minutes from the centre of Tripoli, and is set to feature 312 guestrooms, as well as over 15,000ft² of meeting and conference space, comprising a ballroom and 16 meeting rooms.
~ In terms of land area, Algeria is the largest country on the Mediterranean
said president, international lodging, Marriott International, Ed Fuller. Following the opening of the 204-room Renaissance Tlemcen, the group was also planning to open the 227-room Algiers Marriott and the 180-unit Marriott Executive Apartments Algiers in 2012, followed by the 247-room Courtyard by Marriott Algiers and the 147-unit Residence Inn by Marriott Algiers in 2014. Owned by Trust Real Estate SPA, the uppermoderately-priced Courtyard by Marriott Algiers property will mark the debut of the brand in Algeria, while Residence Inn by Marriott Algiers will be the third Residence Inn in the region. Located on the Lalla Setti plateau overlooking the city, Renaissance Tlemcen is approximately a 15-minute drive from the city centre. Hotel facilities include four F&B outlets offering a variety of different cuisines. Recreational amenities include a health and leisure club, an outdoor swimming pool and two tennis courts. The hotel has 17,360ft² of function space comprising two column-free ballrooms, two meeting rooms in varying configurations and a boardroom. Additional amenities include a business centre. Marriott International was also set to welcome a new JW Marriott-branded property in the central business district of Tripoli this year.
Sea, the largest in the Arab world, second-largest on the African continent, and the 11th largest country in the world.
~ Algeria is bordered in the northeast by Tunisia, in the east by Libya, in the
west by Morocco, in the southwest by Western Sahara, Mauritania, and Mali, in the southeast by Niger and in the north by the Mediterranean Sea.
~ Its size is almost 2,400,000km2, and it has an estimated population of
35.7 million.
~ In this region, midday desert temperatures can be hot year round. After
sunset, however, the clear, dry air permits rapid loss of heat, and the nights are cool.
~ Algeria is divided into 48 provinces, 553 districts and 1,541
municipalities.
~ The official language of Algeria is Arabic. Algerian colloquial Arabic is
spoken as a native language by more than 83 per cent of the population.
~ The currency in Algeria is Algerian Dinar (DZD). ~ There are several UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Algeria including
Al Qal'a of Beni Hammad; Tipasa, a Phoenician and later Roman town; and Djémila and Timgad, both Roman ruins.
~ Algeria is home to 131 airports served by airlines including Air Algérie,
Aigle Azur, Air France, Alitalia, British Airways, Tunis Air, Royal Air Maroc and Qatar Airways.
~ The government has adopted a plan known as "Horizon 2025", which is
June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
designed to improve the infrastructure and various hotel operators are planning to build hotels, particularly along the Mediterranean coast.
AUTUMN Out July 2011
ttg mena for premium travel professionals
“Look up and watch the leaves turn”
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ON LOCATION FRANCE
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ccording to A Tout France, 82 million tourists visited France in 2010, marking a sharp increase over the 74.2 million who visited in 2009, and providing clear evidence that the world’s most popular tourist destination is continuing to prosper in the global tourism industry. Significantly contributing to the statistics were tourists from the Middle East region, with 700,000 MENA travellers visiting the country to experience France’s touristic offerings for themselves. One incentive which has been identified as an apparent reason behind the regional interest in France, is the country’s potential as a year-round destination, according to Middle East regional director, A Tout France, Karim Mekachera who told TTG: “Some people from the GCC are willing to beat the heat and escape from the stress by going to peaceful places such as the French Alps to breathe fresh air. “Behaviour wise, we have noticed that in Paris, youngsters from the GCC want to experience new places and avoid the areas located between the Champs-Elysées and the Seine River because they have previously visited these places with their parents.” Mekachera also revealed that A Tout France is aiming to attract more Middle Eastern guests during the upcoming Ramadan period with many promotions, such as special rates and Halal buffets with Arabian food. In addition, a web-based training programme for travel agents across the region is expected to be launched soon. “We have noticed that some travel agents do not know much about our destination despite the fact that that they are used to selling it,” Mekachera outlined. “This programme will help them to gain more knowledge about France and consequently will help to boost bookings. We will implement the online training in the UAE at first, then Egypt and Lebanon followed by Saudi Arabia and Kuwait by the year’s end.” REGIONAL CONNECTION National carrier Air France KLM has been working to facilitate travel between France and the Middle East, having identified the region as extremely important to the company’s development. “The Arabian Gulf, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are very important for us, and the recently announced code-share agreement with Saudi Arabian Airlines reflects this,” general manager, Air France KLM – Gulf, Saudi Arabia, Iran and Pakistan, Pierre de Saint-Albin told TTG. “This agreement came into effect in January 2011, and enables Saudi Arabian Airlines and Air France to offer customers daily code-shared flights between Jeddah, Paris and Riyadh.” In addition, the partnership means that Air France is the only overseas airline to operate through the Saudi Arabian Airlines terminal in Jeddah. The flights are set to be operated by the new Airbus 320/330 aircraft, featuring Air France’s lie-flat beds in business class. Another new feature now available on all Air France KLM longhaul flights to and from the Gulf, is the new premium voyageur class. “This new cabin is particularly well adapted to the Gulf market segment who are looking for extra comfort on long-haul flights at modest prices,” continued Saint-Albin.
Reaching new heights Consistently rated amongst the world’s most visited destinations, Mario Hajiloizis finds out why France is continuously able to tempt the world’s global travellers to visit its shores those who want to concentrate before a meeting.” Marriott International has also identified France as an important destination for its international offerings, with the Middle Eastern clientele representing a popular market for its properties there. In the first quarter of 2011, the Middle East market represented 7,000 room nights, with about five per cent of total room nights being spent at Marriott International’s hotels in Paris. Altogether, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt and Qatar represented 80 per cent of total room nights, according to director of sales and marketing, Marriott International France, Arnaud Boivent, who told TTG: “Four properties in our portfolio fit particularly well with the Middle Eastern market. These include both of our hotels located in the Champs Elysées area, namely Paris Marriott Champs-Elysées and Renaissance Hotel Paris Le Parc Trocadero, along with the two properties near the La Défense business district – Renaissance Paris La Défense and Courtyard by Marriott Paris Neuilly."
HOSTED CLASS
DISPLAYING QUALITY
In a bid to keep up with bilateral aviation developments, France’s hotel industry is also making portfolio enhancements a strategical priority this year, with French hotel group Accor leading the pack, boasting half of the country's market share. “Accor is a group which represents all segments from low-cost to high-scale with more than 1,300 hotels in France,” general director, Accor France, Christophe Alaux stated to TTG. Numerous hotel openings across all the brands are expected to take place over the next few years, with each property in the current and future portfolio constantly seeking to develop, as Alaux stated: “Accor is attentive to all clients' needs and also to the new tendencies. In F&B for example, the brands have developed special offers with bio products. Novotel, for example, offers ‘Plancha’, which is cooking without any fats, and for business clients, the Pullman brand proposes a ‘chill-out space’ for
Providing hotels with an opportunity to showcase their products and services are world-renowned trade shows such as the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) which is set to celebrate its tenth anniversary in Cannes this year from December 5 to 8, 2011. The ‘invitation-only’ event facilitated over 47,000 individual meetings between the industry’s elite last year, with over 300 new luxury travel products introduced to its platform. The show welcomed over 1,200 VIP buyers last year and this year’s edition expects over 3,000 high-end luxury travel suppliers and buyers to descend upon the coastal city for the event. Explaining to TTG why exhibitors from the MENA region wish to attend ILTM, marketing manager, ILTM, Simon Mayle stated: “The MENA exhibitor is represented at ILTM because they know they are going to meet the world’s top luxury travel buyers, hand-picked from 70 countries. These luxury travel buyers are senior decision June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
Some people from the GCC are willing to beat the heat and escape from the stress by going to peaceful places such as the French Alps to breathe fresh air. makers from high-end travel agencies and tour operators in search of the newest and hottest premium five-star luxury travel products from exciting destinations for their high net worth clients.” Another local event staged in Paris, namely IFTM Top Resa, is set to take place from September 20 to 23, 2011 and has already confirmed that many regional travel trade organisations will attend, catering to different sectors. “The main tourism offices from Middle East will be represented at IFTM Top Resa, with space dedicated to welcoming hotels, airline companies, car rental and other institutions representing the full leisure and business possibilities these countries can offer,” general show director, IFTM Top Resa, Vincent Lhoste told TTG.
ON LOCATION FRANCE Fast road to luxury
Pure French property
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Signature suite guests can explore Paris in an Aston Martin Rapide
Located along the famous Montaigne haute couture avenue, Plaza Athénée Paris has recently announced an exclusive partnership with Aston Martin, to provide guests with the opportunity to discover the capital in an Aston Martin Rapide or an Aston Martin Cygnet. Not limiting its offerings to the road, the property has also introduced ‘My Private Boat’ packages which offer guests private cruises on the River Seine. “Clients can rent a beautiful mahogany and chrome boat for 1.5 hours,” communications director, Plaza Athénée Paris, Isabelle Maurin told TTG. In addition, the 146-room and 45-suite property is aiming to attract more families this summer, as from August 2 to 31, 2011, the décor in two bedrooms will incorporate Barbie and Hot Wheels themes. “Nowadays, people are used to travelling with their children, and children have their say in the choice of destination. We have decided to focus on the children to make the parents happy,” Maurin explained. As the host of the world's second Dior Institute, the property is also welcoming increasing numbers of wellness tourists. According to Maurin, the hotel owner has recently purchased three buildings next to the property in order to increase room capacity, with works expected to begin in late 2012.
An important market Paris-based Four Seasons Hotel George V has revealed that it is currently undergoing a remodelling of all its rooms and suites, with French interior designer Pierre Yves Rochon overlooking the project. Estimated to cost approximately $30 million, one of the highlights of the renovation is set to be a new penthouse suite located on the top floor, offering views over Paris. Sales manager, Four Seasons Hotel George V, Julia Bary told TTG: “The Middle East market is very important to our property and we continue our efforts to keep increasing its weight in the clientele of the hotel. This is a market which traditionally was very seasonal but it is now becoming much more regular. Developing personal relationships based on trust is key for this region of the world.” Meanwhile, Four Seasons Resort Provence at Terre Blanche is aiming to attract more Middle Eastern families, after a kids club and pool was recently built. “The Middle East clientele is focusing on retreat destinations when it comes up to family stays,” general manager, Four Seasons Resort Provence at Terre Blanche, Mauro Governato told TTG. “The resort is a safe place for the kids to fully enjoy the local activities, and parents are happy to spend time together knowing that they are being well looked after. In addition, very popular at our resort with this clientele are our three prestige villas offering total privacy, with a private pool and a whirlpool that couples can enjoy anytime during the season.”
ôtel Le Bristol Paris has recently become the first French hotel to be granted ‘palace’ status. Speaking to TTG about the importance of official ‘palace’ status, general manager, Hôtel Le Bristol Paris, Didier Le Calvez stated: “We are truly such a unique property in France as we have no outside investment, and most of our staff have been with us for the past 15 to 20 years, whilst the property has also never closed in the past 90 years.”
the hotel’s restaurant is also due to be re-decorated in July this year. Furthermore, the honeymoon suite, and the imperial suite are set to be renovated this month, while the hotel’s spa is currently being enlarged and is due to be completed by July 2011. Explaining the importance of the Middle East market for the hotel, Le Calvez told TTG: “Currently, we receive around five to eight per cent of business from the Middle Eastern clientele and we welcome many families from the UAE.
Our soul is French, when guests wake up in our hotel they know they are in France. Despite the new status, Le Calvez stated that the hotel always looks to improve its offerings. Clearly demonstrating this commitment, 45 rooms and suites were set to have undergone total renovation by May 2011, and
Such guests are very loyal and they appreciate the fact that Hôtel Le Bristol Paris is a genuine French property. "We are 100 per cent French. Our soul is French and when guests wake up in our hotel they know they are in France.”
Investing in service
$17 million has been allocated to improve the product and service offering
Hôtel Byblos Saint-Tropez is investing $17 million in a major property-wide revamp, while increased focus is also being placed on recruitment and training. According to general manager, Hôtel Byblos Saint-Tropez, Christophe Chauvin, these developments have been introduced in a bid to respond to the trend that value-for-money is not just about buying quality, but also about the experience, service and guest feelings. “In order to always give the best attention to our guests, we have been regularly training our staff members with language lessons, how to behave with customers and so on,” Chauvin told TTG. “You can work on the building and provide nice decorations but nothing is more important than service.” Outlining how important the Middle East market is for the property, Chauvin stated: "We have been very active commercially over the past five years with this market and we have been immediately feeling the results.” June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
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Making a debut
The property has been designed to be environmentally friendly
Now accepting reservations starting from July 15, 2011, Mandarin Oriental, Paris is set to be the first hotel in the city to be certified with France’s national Haute Qualité Environmental standard, as it aims to pioneer itself as a responsible property. The hotel, which represents the group’s first venture into the country, will offer 138 rooms and 39 suites – seven of which are duplex levels – offering city views and private terraces. “Mandarin Oriental, Paris will offer discrete luxury with gracious, sincere and subtle service, steeped in the values of our oriental heritage, whilst also having its own unique personality with a distinct sense of style and place," director of sales and marketing, Mandarin Oriental, Paris, André Devillers explained to TTG. “Innovative cuisine, our signature Asian-inspired spa, and four elegant flexible spaces will further enhance the guest experience. Furthermore, being located in the heart of the city’s most desirable neighbourhood, the hotel is the perfect pied-àterre for sophisticated travellers wishing to experience the best that Paris has to offer,” stated Devillers. Catering to the Middle East market is also high on the property’s agenda as a dedicated sales manager for the region is based in Lebanon, whilst Arabic-speaking employees are available, as is a website in Arabic, prayer mats, the Qur’an and compasses in the room pointing to Makkah.
Speeding to popularity Since Rail Europe’s representation office for the Middle East opened in Dubai last year, the company has seen a rapid rise in passengers from the region using its services in France, according to regional manager, Rail Europe - Middle East, Central Asia, Caucasus, Waleed Ahmed.
“France is an ideal destination for Arab travellers, who can easily use Paris or Nice as a gateway and then travel around the country with a France rail pass to visit plenty of great cities. “With Rail Europe, wherever travellers are going, they can obtain all their train tickets
Visitors from all over the region are discovering the benefits and comfort offered by rail travel. “The new office has made Rail Europe’s products more visible and accessible to the Arab traveller, and visitors from all over the region are discovering the benefits and comfort offered by rail travel in France compared to other transportation means,” Ahmed told TTG.
in the Middle East before departing to Europe, and can consequently avoid the stress of doing all arrangements in Europe, at the last minute,” Ahmed continued. “Arab travellers also enjoy the fact that they can sit with their families with space and comfort to enjoy the scenery.”
18 ANALYSIS RELIGIOUS TOURISM GLOBAL SPREAD
Leading the way Proving to be one of the most stable sectors in the travel industry, religious tourism is continuing to prosper and develop. Mario Hajiloizis discovers how
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ccording to the World Religious Travel Association (WRTA), 300 million tourists travel around the world for religious purposes on an annual basis. The niche itself has, according to the WRTA, been amongst the most stable sectors within the tourism industry, particularly during recently challenging times. Commenting on how religious tourism has managed to prove its strong staying power, director general, marketing department, Palestine Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, Majed Ishaq told TTG: “I think that religious tourism will keep expanding for many reasons. Firstly, the fact that people from different denominations are coming back to religion and faith. Also, millions wish to discover the historical roots behind Christianity and Islam and want to be moved by such holy places. “Furthermore, more travellers are looking for authentic experiences practicing spirituality, experiencing cultural activities, whilst also sightseeing at the same time,” continued Ishaq. “Travel agents offering pilgrimage tours are increasing in numbers each day and governments, religious institutions and the private sector are all investing a lot in improving religious infrastructure,” he added. Speaking to TTG about the growing phenomenon of religious tourism, director general, Ministry of Tourism Lebanon, Nada Sardouk stated that with increasing numbers of tourists travelling for this purpose, many governments should now ensure that the sector is a key component within their respective national tourism strategies. “Religious tourism is growing dramatically, with more people than ever travelling for spiritual enlightenment, whether it is in search for a deeper meaning in life or connecting with their roots,” outlined Sardouk. “The UNWTO has also urged more tourism organisations to promote more inter-religious dialogue as one of the major aims of tourism,” she added.
Religious tourism is growing dramatically with more people than ever travelling for spiritual enlightenment. Amongst the biggest contributors to religious tourism is predominately the fact that for many respective faiths, travelling on a pilgrimage is a ‘must do’ experience, according to head of PR department, National Tourism Organisation of Serbia, Ljiljana Cerovic. “Religious tourism is the oldest form of tourism, not only in Christianity, but also in ancient times as the ancient Greeks travelled to the holy places of their religion such as Olympia and Delphi,” Cerovic told TTG. “Christianity, for over 2,000 years has cherished pilgrimage travel, while one of the pillars of Islam is going to Mecca and Medina. Pilgrims get spiritual peace, something each of us need at this time of fast living. There are also other interests such as getting to know different cultures, traditions and customs,” she continued. June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
Amongst the European nations who host some of the largest numbers of religious tourists is Bosnia and Herzegovina, which welcomes almost 1.5 million Catholic tourists each year wishing to visit the Medjugorje shrine. “In addition to Medjugorje, there is Ajvatovica near Prusac which is the largest Muslim pilgrimage site in Europe. The site celebrated its 500th anniversary in June 2010,” PR officer, Tourism Association of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Asja Hadziefendic-Mesic told TTG. “Our capital, Sarajevo is also important, with many referring to it as the ‘European Jerusalem’ with major religious facilities such as mosques as well as and Catholic and Orthodox churches all within a 10 minute walk.” Bordering the country in the east is Serbia, which is aiming to work alongside its neighbours to promote more religious travel into the country. Religious groups including Serbian Orthodox, Catholic, Islamic and Slovak Evangelical communities, represent the nation’s largest inbound religious tourists. “Pilgrimage travel represents an extraordinary opportunity for Southeast Europe and Serbia,” Cerovic told TTG. “Connection with our neighbouring countries is needed in order to form joint programmes, or to become part of the existing international programmes. A good example is Serbia’s participation in the regional Transromanica project, which gathers seven European countries for this purpose.” Cerovic further stated that preparations have already begun for an event in the Serbian city of Niš in 2013, celebrating 1,700 years since the signing of the Edict of Milan, which promoted religious tolerance. Niš is also famed as the birthplace of Constantine the Great, the first Christian Roman Emperor and the founder of Constantinople in Turkey. Known today as Istanbul, the city is home to one of the largest churches in Christendom, the Basilica of Hagia Sophia (Church of the Holy Wisdom). It has also been the home of the Greek Orthodox Patriarch for nearly 550 years, and welcomes Greek Orthodox tourists in their droves every year. Muslim tourists are also frequent visitors to Istanbul, predominantly due to the fact that the city houses Topkapi Palace, a site said to be filled with relics of the Prophet Mohammed. “Religious tourism is one of the fastest growth areas in the travel industry, and more than any other country in the world, Turkey is the place where the great religions – Christianity and Islam – certainly nurtured, and blossomed into the profound cultural and religious traditions that would shape western civilisation,” director, Turkish Culture and Tourist Office - New York, Ebru Ejder told TTG. Despite its small geographical area, Cyprus is also rich in monuments from the Byzantine period, which attract large numbers of religious tourists annually, according to tourist officer, Cyprus Tourism Organisation, Vakis Loizides. “This great heritage, with its high artistic value and outstanding wall-painting ensembles, has worldwide significance,” he told TTG. “For this reason, UNESCO has declared ten of the Troodos Mountain churches to be World Heritage monuments. There is also great interest to visit the Kykkos Monastery, Saint Lazarus in Larnaka, Saint Paul’s Pillar in Pafos and other important churches and monasteries on the island.” Pope Benedict XVI’s visit to Cyprus in June 2010, also initiated great interest for Cyprus as a religious tourism destination according to Loizides, as it was the first ever official visit by a Catholic Pope to the island. Having long catered to the religious tourism sector, Egypt is also looking to further target this niche in coming years as Minister of State, antiquities affairs, Egypt, Dr. Zahi Hawass told TTG: “The Ministry of Tourism recently designed the Tour of Mary and Jesus to allow Christians to follow in the footsteps of the Holy family here and they also published a book on it. “The way the industry will develop in the future depends on tour companies, however, I think it is a good idea for them to run such tours because many people are interested in this subject and they will be fulfilling a demand,” he concluded.
ANALYSIS RELIGIOUS TOURISM New pilgrimage sites
A special relationship
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Religious tourism is set to increase in Jordan
Religious tourism in Jordan is expected to welcome increasing numbers of international arrivals, after the Vatican recently assigned five Christian sites within the country as offical pilgrimage locations. Tal Mar Elias, Madaba and Mount Nebo, Anjara Mountain Lady Church, Mkhawer and Bethany have all been named as official pilgrimage sites, especially after two Popes visited the latter site in 2000 and 2009. “Many projects and churches are also being built
around the River Jordan area, as well as many new hotels in Madaba, and restaurants and souvenir shops in Nebo,” religious tourism manager, Jordan Tourism Board, Sa’ed Zawaideh explained to TTG. “As a non-profit organisation we do not generate direct business from this sector, however, we have noticed an enormous increase in tourist numbers at religious sites in Jordan. "Religious tourists usually come from the US, Canada, Latin America, Italy, Spain and the Eastern European countries,” he concluded.
Historical roots
ith hotel resorts based around the world, Amanresorts has revealed that it is aiming to develop close relationships with religious institutions based in the locations where it is present. Explaining to TTG why the group has identified the sector as imperative to determine future success, media manager, Amanresorts, Francesca von Etzdorf stated: “Each of our properties work hard to respect the religions and cultures of the countries they are in. Guests are welcome to practice their faith at our properties, and if this requires any special requests, the staff will be happy to help if possible.
Guests are encouraged to experience ceremonies and blessings. “Guests are also encouraged to experience ceremonies and blessings of the native cultures and religions where the resorts are based. For example, in many of our Asian properties we have close relationships with the temples, monks and holy men in the area and arrange special blessings,” von Etzdorf told TTG. Amongst its most prominent properties catering to religious tourism, is Amantaka which is based in Laos and derives its name from the word aman, meaning ‘peace’ in Sanskrit and Tipitaka, meaning ‘the teaching of the Buddha.’ The resort is within walking distance to the main street, as well as being close to the banks of the Mekong River and Luang Prabang’s night market. The hotel also provides access to the town’s many religious temples.
Based at the centre Fairmont Raffles Hotels International is firmly establishing its presence in Islam’s Holy city of Makkah, with three brands under the portfolio all based there.
F&B offerings within the hotel can be adapted to guest's needs
Hilton Athens is fast becoming a popular hotel with religious tourists who wish to experience the Greek capital’s offerings, due to its location and ability to adapt to their specific requirements, according to communications manager, Hilton Athens, Tina Toribaba. “The Parthenon, situated on the sacred Acropolis rock, constitutes a destination for all sorts of religious groups who admire Greek history and civilisation,” Toribaba told TTG. “In addition, the hotel is situated opposite the Byzantine Museum, which is one of the most important museums related to the Greek Orthodox religion. Many tourists also go to the island of Tinos for a day trip in order to visit Panagia Evangelistria, the most important Greek Church for pilgrims.” Toribaba further stated that the property itself is able to cater to all guests’ culinary needs upon request, with executive chef, Yiannis Manikis able to prepare various menus belonging to different faith groups. “Our team is flexible and able to co-operate with any religious group who needs to be involved in the food preparation as per the ritual. The kitchen is also able to prepare Lent dishes and vegetarian meals in order to adjust to specific religious traditions,” Toribaba concluded.
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Identified sector Event organisers for the FITUR trade fair – due to take place from 18 to 22 January, 2012 in Madrid – are considering allocating a dedicated religious tourism area following the sector’s increasing development, according to director, FITUR, Ana Larrañaga. “Religion is closely linked with other aspects that appeal to travellers, such as art, tradition, and even cuisine, all combining several interesting aspects that serve to attract increasingly large numbers of tourists. In this context, I think that this segment will gradually take on more significance in the travel industry,” she told TTG. The most recent edition of the event, which took place from January 19 to 23, 2011, welcomed over 10,400 companies from
166 countries which included many who cater to the religious tourism industry Larrañaga stated. “This is a segment that is arousing more and more interest and FITUR offers an excellent platform for showcasing, displaying and, in short, for familiarising both professionals and the travelling public alike with the latest trends in this sector. “There is a great untapped potential in religious trips, which already move some $18 billion all over the world," Larrañaga explained to TTG. "We at FITUR provide an opportunity to contact potential clients such as wholesalers, travel managers and visitors, thus serving to create a beneficial network for enhancing commercial transactions within the sector,” she concluded.
Religious services
Makkah Clock Royal Tower - A Fairmont Hotel, Raffles Makkah Palace, Swissôtel Makkah, Khaled Yamak. “In addition, the upcoming Swissôtel Makkah property,
To be relevant in this region you have to be here. Located adjacent to the Al-Masjid Al-Haram, Makkah Clock Royal Tower, A Fairmont Hotel, is amongst the world’s tallest buildings, and at 76-storeys high is the focal point of the Abraj Al Bait complex. The hotel features 858 rooms across 29 floors, with a number of rooms boasting views of the Ka’aba. “Raffles Makkah Palace, offering 209 spacious suites, also has an outstanding location, directly adjacent to Al-Masjid Al-Haram and the Ka’aba, offering easy access to King Abdulaziz Gate,” explained group director of communications and business development,
which opens in the third quarter of 2011, is a contemporary five-star hotel with 2,600 rooms, and is also located in close proximity to the Al-Masjid Al-Haram, overlooking the Ka’aba and Grand Mosque,” Yamak told TTG. Revealing why the group identified the city as imperative to its operations, executive vice president marketing and sales, Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, Jeff Senior told TTG: “To be relevant in this region you have to be here and with our brand being associated with the Makkah Clock Tower development, it was an opportunity not to be missed."
June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
Syria welcomes many Christian and Muslim tourists
Both Syria-based Safir Hotels & Resorts properties generate approximately 45,000 room nights per year just from Christian and Muslim tourists visiting the country, according to regional director of operations, Safir Hotels & Resorts, Najib Saad. “Our Muslim guests who stay at the Safir Al Sayedah Zeinab Hotel come from the GCC, Iran, Iraq and Muslims living in Europe, while our Christian guests who stay at the Safir Maaloula Hotel come mainly from Germany, Italy, Austria, Greece and Cyprus,” Saad told TTG. “In addition, we have conference rooms for prayers and religious meetings which are well equipped with the latest audio-visual technologies. All the restaurants serve Halal food and soft drinks with a wide variety of international and local cuisines, whilst all rooms also provide prayer mats and the Holy Qur’an,” Saad outlined.
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COMMENT
Where it all begins again Newly appointed Minister of Tourism, Egypt, Mounir Fakhry Abdel Nour talks to Emily Millett about how the vast changes and developments that Egypt is currently undergoing will positively affect the tourism industry in the short- and long-term
gypt started its transformation towards becoming a stable, democratic and modern economy following the January 25, 2011, revolution. Egyptians rightfully believe that they can make their own destiny and Cairo’s Tahrir Square has become our political and symbolic epicentre. All Egyptians continue their struggle for democracy and prosperity hand-in-hand. They are determined to emerge stronger than before, and will do their utmost as people of this great nation to continue to tackle our long-term challenges. Amidst the multiple changes Egypt is weathering, the impressive variety of history and culture, and the splendour of the exotic myriad of experiences are not only preserved, but safeguarded by the pride and dignity of the Egyptian people. Back on track Tourism is bouncing back with difficultly, but it is recovering and we hope to restore the industry’s former glory as security is prevailing all over the country. My main aim as Minister is to get tourism back on track. And we will succeed. The immediate goal is to promote all kinds of tourism in Egypt, as well as all touristic venues, by advertising and continuing to participate in international fairs such as ATM and ITB. Egypt may have been the focus of sometimes negative worldwide media attention in recent
months, but now the primary objective is to quickly get back to the normal level of tourism. The peaceful, pro-democratic revolution brought a fresh breeze to Egypt. Tourism officials will freshen up their marketing measures accordingly, focusing on increased participation at international events and media-marketing activities. Using the revolution as its marketing strategy is the new trend for promoting Egypt Tourism in 2011. During the revolution, as businesses in Cairo closed, Egypt’s economy ground to a halt and tourism revenue for February was cut by more than half. Until today, we have not recouped the normal pace of tourism in Egypt, but we expect to be back on track by September this year.
2011. Indeed, tourists have never been as warmly welcomed to Egypt as in these post-revolutionary days. To promote tourism to Egypt to the allimportant Arabian markets, the Ministry of Tourism launched a major marketing campaign in the Gulf, in a bid to bring Arab tourists back to Egypt this summer, by sending a warm message to the Arab people to visit Egypt and support the Egyptian revolution.
back to a brand new Egypt which has numerous breathtaking places. Amongst other things Egypt is also world famous for its great pyramids, vast deserts, white sandy unparalleled beaches, indulging waters, the Nile valley and great ancient kings. This is a great location for lovers of arts and architecture. Now there is an additional reason to come to Egypt, to meet with our people and our youth with their big smiles and embracing arms full of hope for a new beginning.
Source for growth Celebrating victory All major feeder market countries have now waived their ban to visit Egypt and are returning to our country slowly but surely. In Tahrir Square, where the revolution was landmarked, the victory continues to be celebrated each Friday with large festive crowds and a growing number of tourists now also taking part in these celebrations. Also at Tahrir Square, many of those having secured the revolution now are joining calls for international tourists to return to Egypt. They want to assure tourists that it is safe, and the best way for the international community to support Egypt at these crossroads would be to continue visiting our beautiful country and to see where history was made in January
Tourism is Egypt’s second biggest source of foreign currency and employs 12.6 per cent of the total workforce. About 14.7 million tourists visited in 2010, and the country is banking on hopes for 25 million annual arrivals by 2020. To entice foreigners, the Ministry of Tourism has already launched an advertising campaign using slogans such as “Tahrir Square – From Egypt with Love,” making a reference to Egypt’s newest attraction, Tahrir Square, where millions of Egyptians of all ages and walks of life gathered during the 18 days of protests. Egypt offers everything you can imagine, it is one of the most unique destinations on Earth, that’s why I’m sure Egyptian tourism will recover very soon and tourists will be flocking
June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
My main aim is to get tourism back on track. And we will succeed.
SUMMER PROMOTIONS Get summer ready
The package aims to prepare clients for the summer
Hyatt Hotels and Resorts has unveiled the 2011 Dubai Summer Specials room packages for its three properties in the emirate. Until September 10, 2011, guests visiting Dubai can enjoy a wealth of benefits at Park Hyatt Dubai, Grand Hyatt Dubai and Hyatt Regency Dubai. The Dubai Summer Specials allows two children under the age of 12 to stay with two paying adults free-of-charge in any of the three hotels. The children are also entitled to
complimentary breakfast, lunch and dinner. In addition, the three properties have selected an array of activities including complimentary ice-skating, discounts on tickets to the Dubai Dolphinarium and Seawings seaplane sightseeing tours, as well as a 20 per cent discount in all 29 restaurants and bars as well as the three spas in the hotels. This June, Park Hyatt Dubai’s Amara Spa is also offering a special package – The Summer Ready Amara package, designed to relieve stress and tension. The spa experience is being offered at a reduced price for the month of June. The hotel has also recently announced a series of F&B promotions throughout June, including Friday brunch packages from 12:30 to 16:00, and Friday family lunch and buffet nights at Café Arabesque, where children under the age of 12 can enjoy a 50 per cent discount.
Seasonal bites ne to One Hotel – the Village in Abu Dhabi is welcoming in the summer season with a host of F&B promotions at its numerous outlets. BBQ Buffet evenings have been launched at The Village Club restaurant, with special promotional prices available and free meals for children under the age of five. The outlet is also introducing a salsa night on Wednesdays, with free salsa lessons available for diners. At Resto restaurant, a weekday lunch buffet with live cooking stations is being offered at special prices. Wokcano – the hotel’s Far East fusion restaurant – is featuring special business meal deals on weekdays, including a combination of six main dishes, a set menu and ice tea, meanwhile the outlet is also introducing a Japanese Bento Box combo dinner, available every evening. Business meal deals are also now available on all weekdays at 18oz, the hotel's steak house, and include an appetizer, main course and dessert. The hotel is also launching a number of summer clubs and classes, such as the new Boot Camp, Hard Core Abs classes and Thai boxing for kids and adults. Dynamic flow yoga classes are on offer on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays, while tango for beginners and advanced levels are also available on Fridays. The Village Spa is also offering discounts this summer, with one complimentary rejuvenating treatment for every two booked at the hotel. Summer room rates include a 15 per cent discount on all restaurants at One to One Hotel – the Village.
June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
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Double destination
Spreading the fun over two weekends, the package includes Oman and UAE-based properties
Radisson Blu Hotel, Muscat has joined forces with Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek to offer a special summer weekend package. The concept of the package is, why limit your fun to one weekend when you can stretch it out over two? As part of the package, guests booking a weekend at the newly renovated Radisson Blu Hotel in Muscat will receive a complimentary brunch voucher for two at the Friday Fun Food Festival every
Friday at Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek. The package has been designed to provide guests with an opportunity to kick back and relax on the beaches in Oman, or spend the day exploring the country's desert, wadis and towering mountain ranges on the first weekend, and then the very next weekend they can spend an afternoon indulging in different cuisines from 11 restaurants in Dubai, all featured in one single brunch.
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SUMMER PROMOTIONS
Getaway to the Palm
Super savings in Africa
Atlantis, The Palm is offering special rates until September 30, this summer, including unlimited complimentary access to the Lost Chambers and Aquaventure waterpark, preferential rates to swim with the dolphins at Dolphin Bay and complimentary daily shuttle service to various shopping malls. Awarded as the Middle East's Leading Water Park by the World Travel Awards in 2010, the 17-ha Aquaventure waterpark features seven waterslides, a 2.3km river ride with tidal waves and pools, water rapids and white water chargers. The Lost City of Atlantis and the Lost Chambers offer mazes of underground tunnels and passageways, while touch tanks filled with starfish, pencil urchins and horseshoe crabs are designed to allow guests
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts Africa has unveiled a number of savings packages across various hotels and resorts in Egypt, Tunisia, and Tanzania, in a bid to provide guests with value-for-money deals until the end of August 2011. On the shores of the Red Sea, only one hour drive from Cairo, Mövenpick Resort El Sokhna is offering one free night for every two or three night stays, and two complimentary nights for every five night stay, while Mövenpick Resort Taba is offering a free night for every three nights booked, and two free nights for every five nights booked. Mövenpick Resort El Quseir is offering one week holiday packages for the price of five nights this summer, and following major renovations, Mövenpick Resort & Spa El Gouna is offering guests
The hotel is offering guest discounts and special kids programmes this year
to touch, feel, interact and learn about sea life. The package allows guests preferential rates for the Dolphin Encounter and the Dolphin Photo Fun programmes at the 4.5-ha state-of-the-art dolphin education and conservation centre, Dolphin Bay. Special summer rates also extend to the hotel’s 17 F&B outlets, with a special Arabian Family Night
every Tuesday in the Lost Chambers. Emirates NBD Visa cardholders can enjoy a 25 per cent discount on all F&B at the hotel until September 30, 2011. The Atlantis Kids Club offers a daily supervised activity programme this summer, where kids staying at the hotel between the ages of three to 12 years old are treated to one complimentary afternoon session per stay.
the opportunity to choose an additional free night for every three night stay; or two free nights for every five night stay. This summer, Mövenpick Resort Aswan is offering one extra night for every two nights stay. Guests staying at Mövenpick Cairo-Media City will have the option to stay three nights and pay for two, or stay for seven nights and pay for five. The group’s two newly launched Tunisiabased properties in Gammarth and Sousse are both offering one complimentary night for every three nights booked and two free nights for every five nights booked. In Dar es Salaam, the newly renovated Mövenpick Royal Palm Hotel is offering a free night for every two or three nights' stay and two free nights for every five nights' stay.
Golfing in the sun
A
rabian Ranches Golf Club has recently unveiled a host of summer specials for the upcoming season, offering discounts and benefits for members and non-members. The promotional packages, which are set to run until September 30, 2011, will offer unlimited access to the
18-hole championship golf course and par three course, complimentary use of the practice facilities, a 10 per cent discount off all F&B and a 10 per cent discount off Pro Shop purchases. In addition, visitors can avail of preferential member’s rates on all golf tuition at the Golf Academy, preferential
rates at the clubs guestrooms, preferential guests’ rate for friends and family and priority golf booking. Further benefits include 10 day advance bookings for domestic club calendar events, optional use of the bag storage and locker facilities and priority reservations for all golf and social events at the club.
Rewarding customer loyalty InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) is set to award its Priority Club members with double Priority Club points or double air miles at any of its properties until August 15, 2011.
card for children under the age of 12, featuring privileges such as a free bed, free meals, and free pizza and ice cream all day long. Families that stay three nights or more
This summer’s promotions are focusing on the younger guests. To participate in the promotion, Priority Club members can register online and earn double points with the second stay. Priority Club Rewards feature redemption programmes such as Points & Cash and access to airline ticket inventory and non-IHG hotel rooms. At InterContinental and Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City, this summer’s promotions are focusing on the younger guests, with a special Very Important Kid club membership June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
are also set to enjoy the VIP (Very Important Parents) experience, which includes complimentary shopping vouchers, dining vouchers, cinema tickets, bowling vouchers and spa discounts. Meanwhile, Al Badia Golf Club by InterContinental Dubai Festival City is unveiling a More Than Just Golf promotion, combining golf on the championship 18-hole golf course, with dining at discounted prices.
INTERVIEW
From the ground up
TTG: What motivated you to start your own hotel company? My inspiration to start the company came soon after I retired from The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. It was clear to me that many people retire in order to pursue new things when previously they had no time to do so, but I soon discovered that my genuine passion was hotels. When you look back you realise that you could have done many things much better, which is exactly what went through my mind. I wanted to create a masterpiece and I realised that creating excellent things was my passion, which is why I decided to create West Paces Hotel Group. TTG: How have your past experiences benefited you in your role at West Paces Hotel Group? Clearly these experiences were great for me, and all the hard work I put in produced great results which helped tremendously. I genuinely believe that we are the entire product of our experiences and also of the people who have a big impact on us.
TTG: How does each brand under the West Paces Hotel Group umbrella differ?
TTG: What is West Paces Hotel Group doing to keep up-to-date with the latest trends?
Auriga Spa is our brand which specifically focuses on wellness offerings within select properties, and offers guests various different treatments. Solís Hotels & Resorts is our top market brand hotel company, which can compete with many well respected four- and five-star companies. These properties offer anything between 200 to 400 rooms. Capella Hotels and Resorts is almost the same as Solís but these properties are smaller in the sense that we rarely go over 100 rooms. There is a strict focus on the individual at Capella as we do not target large conventions in these hotels. We may on occasion host board meetings, but we know the top market wish to be exclusively treated as individual customers and do not want to be bothered by large groups. I can do everything and anything for guests at Capella Hotels and Resorts as long as it is legal, moral and ethical.
Change here happens on a daily basis and so it is very important to always be on the ball. I recently stayed at a hotel which charged me to use the Internet which we do not agree with, as things like this should now be a normal requirement in any hotel room. Ironically though, we do not want to be at the leading edge in the technology sector. We once installed voice mail in our hotels but guests complained saying that they prefer to talk with people in person, so now we prefer to be close to the front but not leading the way. I have made sure that we have internal technology experts and the same applies to CSR. I prefer to stand back here because all our young employees in particular have a lot of knowledge on this. What I do tell them is not to move to fast.
TTG: West Paces Hotel Group has properties throughout Europe, Asia, the Americas and the Caribbean – What are your plans regarding entering the MENA market?
Explaining his eventful journey into the world of hotels and tourism, president, West Paces Hotel Group, Horst Schulze reveals the group’s future plans to Mario Hajiloizis At The Ritz-Carlton it was different as I started the company, so in a sense I was its first ever employee, which as you can imagine, produced its very own unique experience for me. TTG: Why do you feel it is important that top management at hotel groups have previous experience within the industry? I started my journey within the hotel industry when I was only 14 years old as a bell boy, so I can definitely say that I have plenty of experience in all levels. Many hotels these days are managed by lawyers and CPA’s, but I believe that people should manage such companies only if they have deep experience. I know and feel the employees’ pain and feelings because of my experience. I can go to a dishwasher and tell them exactly what needs to be done, which I feel many people in a similar position to me do not do. It is a great feeling to understand these things and know exactly what the product and service function should be like. West Paces Hotel Group is a product company where we rely on guests to come back precisely because of the product we provide for them.
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I recently flew to Qatar for the official signing of our first property in the Middle East, the fivestar Solís Doha property, which is expected to open in 2015. I am also in discussions for a possible Capella property in the UAE as I believe that the MENA region represents much of our future. Clearly the growth is there and it is proving to be a very desirable area for western and European travellers. For me personally, I really think that this region is full of history and beauty whilst it is also great for business. Proving that I genuinely listen to my guests, the whole idea to expand into Qatar in the first place came from a guest in one of my hotels. Truly listening to our guests is so important and it ultimately determines our future, so we regularly ask guests who stay with us one simple question – Will you ever want to come back to our hotel and will you recommend us? – We rate the answers from one to ten, with one representing ‘absolutely not’ and ten representing ‘most definitely’. We only count the nines and tens, and I was so delighted to see that in 2010 we had 90 per cent of guests rating us in this bracket. TTG: What process do you go through when deciding which destinations to enter with your brands? Clearly we know where our guests go as we are a management company which is opportunistic and responds to this demand. The very first question we always ask ourselves is if our guests will identify with the new property. Very important places such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Cairo are all future locations where we should be and where our guests are. Sharm El Sheikh and Beirut are also on our radar as I believe these destinations are very important.
June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
TTG: What were the most notable highlights for the group in 2010 and what new developments can we expect for the rest of 2011? In 2010 we opened a new hotel in New York which was a fantastic achievement, but overall, throughout the hotel group we have seen a massive increase in business and leisure travel. 2011 is continuing with great success with our first hotel in China also expected, however, the biggest highlight for me has to be the impressive guest feedback which was great as it was our ultimate goal to reach at least 90 per cent and we did it.
The biggest highlight for me has to be the impressive guest feedback. TTG: When you are not working, what tourism activities do you regularly pursue and why? I travel on business for over 200 days each year, so it is sometimes difficult to truly appreciate the countries I am visiting. With my wife we love to go back to Germany to visit our small village which is such a unique place, it is so easy to relax there, but it also has great culture and history. Recently, I visited Bali which is such a beautiful place that it genuinely did fulfill me. Egypt is a place I have only ever visited on business, so I am really looking forward to going there just to see the country for what it truly is.
24 PEOPLE
David Garner
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Online budget car rental company Budget EMEA, has announced the appointment of Philippe Dye as the new director for the Middle East and Africa. Dye previously worked for Avis and Lufthansa, in business development and strategy roles. Commenting on his new position, Dye remarked: “My objectives will be to strengthen our leading market position in the Middle East, and to increase our market coverage in Africa.”
Peter Davies has joined Air Malta as CEO, following his position as managing director of Air Southwest in the UK. Davies has over 35 years of experience in the aviation industry, both in passenger and express cargo operations, and has served as CEO at SN Brussels Airlines. A qualified pilot, Davies has also held operational and marketing positions at Qantas and as managing director at XP Express Systems, a subsidiary of KLM.
Hisham Nammari
AREA DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING Backed by more than 15 years of experience in international sales and marketing within the tourism and hospitality sector, David Garner has joined the Anantara Hotels, Resorts and Spas team in the UAE as area director of sales and marketing. In his new role, Garner will be responsible for reinforcing the positioning of the Anantara name in the Middle East and attracting a wider audience to Anantara’s resorts in Abu Dhabi.
GENERAL MANAGER InterContinental Jericho has welcomed its new general manager, Hisham Nammari. A Jordanian hotelier, Nammari has over 30 years of experience in the tourism and hospitality industry. Boasting extensive experience of in key management positions in five-star hotels around the region, in his new role Nammari will lead the team of the hotel and support the missions of other hotels in the InterContinental Hotels Group.
Michal Novotny
FOCUS ON
DIRECTOR, MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA
ANANTARA HOTELS, UAE
Peter Davies
AIR MALTA
BUDGET EMEA
Philippe Dye
If you have recently been promoted or appointed
IHG JERICHO
ON THE MOVE >>>
Working for Having worked with worldrenowned professional athletes, physiotherapist, The Spa - Gran Hotel Bah›a del Duque, Michal Novotnyý explains why he is now dedicated to healing hotel guests.
June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
PEOPLE 25
Mukesh Sodani
Etihad Airways has welcomed Qutiaba Zahde to the position of country manager in Iran, responsible for overseeing the airline’s commercial activities and sales growth in the Iranian market. Zahde has more than 25 years of airline experience, which has included positions with Swiss International Air Lines and Kuwait Airways. Zahde has spent more than 10 years living and working in the Arabian Gulf region.
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
FLYDUBAI
ETIHAD AIRWAYS
COUNTRY MANAGER OF IRAN
flydubai has announced the appointment of Mukesh Sodani as its new CFO. Working alongside flydubai’s COO, Sodani will be an integral part of the airline’s future growth strategy as it expands its fleet to meet the needs of a growing network. Joining flydubai following a stint as CFO of a real estate conglomerate in Dubai, Sodani also has 15 years of experience in the airline industry, rising to the position of vice president of aircraft financing at Emirates Airline.
Janet Abrahams
Luigi Romaniello
ROSEWOOD ABU DHABI
Qutiaba Zahde
KEMPINSKI HOTELS
key staff, please visit our website ttgmena.com to upload your details
TTG: What is the most satisfying aspect of your job? The moment when patients leave the clinic recovered from injury and without any pain. TTG: Which destinations provide the best facilities for wellness offerings? For an optimal recovery the climate is very important. Often professional athletes look for destinations with high altitude to gain some pulmonary resistance. The ocean is another important factor, Tenerife can offer them all.
the stars TTG: Why did you decide to open up your own clinic? Having the clinic means I can work with my patients using all the necessary facilities to develop a complete and intensive rehabilitation. Now I have all the facilities such as a spa, kinesis gym and pilates space to perform an excellent recovery. TTG: You're known as a physiotherapist to the stars, how do you feel about this? For me it's an honour that famous people contact me to help them with their injuries but it doesn't make any difference treating well known names or regular people. In the end it is all about curing the person.
TTG: How do you foresee your operations at Gran Hotel Bahía del Duque? Right now the hotel clients can choose to be treated by similar protocols and technology as is used with professional athletes. I’m sure this project will be a success. I do believe in ‘word-of-mouth’ advertisement. So far all my patients have come to me in this way. TTG: Do you feel your clinic will be a success with guests at the property? I have only one goal and that’s to cure injuries as fast as possible. If I continue doing this, it will be a success. Working for many years with professional athletes helped me to develop my own evaluation system. Based on this global body evaluation I create recovery plans using different rehabilitation techniques and specific therapeutic exercise programmes. All this is included in a very intensive treatment programme. TTG: Where will you be in five years? In five years time I truly hope that I don't have to travel to treat my patients anymore and that the patients will travel to my clinic at Gran Hotel Bahía del Duque. June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
AREA DIRECTOR SALES AND MARKETING LEVANT REGION Regional director Levant region, Kempinski Hotels Jordan, Bugra Berberoglu has recently announced the appointment of Janet Abrahams to the position of area director of sales and marketing for the Levant region. Abrahams joins from Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi, where she has been based for three years. She brings over 20 years experience in the luxury hotel sector in the Middle East, Europe and Asia.
MANAGING DIRECTOR Rosewood Hotels & Resorts is pleased to announce the appointment of Luigi Romaniello to the position of managing director of Rosewood Abu Dhabi. As managing director, Romaniello will oversee all areas of the hotel. A seasoned veteran with more than 20 years experience in the hospitality industry, Romaniello joined Rosewood Hotels & Resorts in August 1999 as resident manager of Caneel Bay in the US Virgin Islands.
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PEOPLE
Pictureperfect
A visual tour of recent events in the region
1.Cristal Hotels & Resorts
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Vice president, Republic of the Philippines, H.E. Jejomar Binay meets with CEO, Cristal Hotels and Resorts, Peter Blackburn in Abu Dhabi
2.Raffles Dubai RED Lounge partners with Manolo Blahnik to launch ‘Cosmos and the City Wednesdays’ at Raffles Dubai
3.Royal Cliff Hotels Group Royal Cliff Hotels Group welcomes deputy minister of foreign affairs, the Russian Federation, H.E. Alexey Borodavkin to the Kingdom of Thailand
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4.Al Bustan Centre & Residence Al Bustan Centre & Residence hosts Prague Youth Philharmonic Orchestra Group
5.Etihad Airways CEO, Etihad Airways, James Hogan announces that Manchester is the location for its newest contact centre
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6.Armani Hotel Dubai Armani Hotel Dubai hosts culinary master classes led by expert chefs
7.Ramada Downtown Dubai Alain Robert, the French climber dubbed as Le Spiderman, scales Ramada Downtown Dubai on a recent trip to Dubai
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8.Royal Caribbean Cruises
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Royal Caribbean Cruises presents the Middle East travel trade awards
9.Marriott Kuwait Soul & Spice Indian Restaurant opens at Courtyard by Marriott Kuwait
10.Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi Italian Business Group holds its monthly meeting at the Grand Ballroom of Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi
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11.UNWTO President, South Africa, Jacob Zuma joins UNWTO and WTTC’s Global Leaders for Tourism Campaign regarding the value of travel and tourism
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12.SCTDA Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) concludes an educational master class on the oil-gas industry for tourist guides in the UAE
June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
CALENDAR 27 Chief Editor Alexandra North ANorth@ttgmena.com D: +357 22843827
Exhibition Calendar
Editor Emily Millett EMillett@ttgmena.com D: +357 22843826
June 2 – 5
Journalists Andreas Stylianou Andrea Gutova Mario Hajiloizis
Korea World Travel Fair (KOFTA), Seoul, Korea www.kotfa.co.kr
Designers Edward Beales Ioanna Pattichi Elena Stylianou
June 9 – 12 International Travel Expo Hong Kong (ITE), Hong Kong www.itehk.com/ITEHK
E-Commerce Panayiotis Phillipou
June 13 – 16
Executive Director Katherine Savvides
International Luxury Travel Market Asia (ILTM Asia), Shanghai, China www.iltm.net/asia
Sales & Marketing Tony Fields TFields@ttgmena.com D: +357 22 843804
June 17 –19 Beijing International Tourism Expo (BITE), Beijing, China www.bitechina.com.cn
Adrian Exley AExley@ttgmena.com D: +357 22 843814 Elaine Hockley EHockley@ttgmena.com D: +357 22 843834
June 21 – 23 Americas Incentive Business Travel & Meetings Exhibition (AIBTM), Baltimore, US www.aibtm.com
Marianne Shokry MShokry@ttgmena.com D: +357 22843821
June 22 – 23
Christian Stylianides CStylianides@ttgmena.com D: +357 22 843842
Business Travel Market (BTM), London, UK www.businesstravelmarket.co.uk
Thailand Representative Public Major Media Ltd, Janya Limmanee Janya.Limmanee@publicitas.com Tel: 662 651 9273
EXPO UPDATE
July 8 – 10 Travel & Tourism Fair – Hyderabad, India www.biztradeshows.com/trade-events/travel-tourism-hyderabad.html
Japan Representative Pacific Business Inc, Hiroko Kujime Kujime-pbi@gol.com Tel: 81 33661 6138
August 24 – 26 Hotelex Shanghai, China www.hotelex.cn
Operations Manager Chris Christou Finance Manager Theodoros Spyrou
TTG Middle East & North Africa will be distributed at these shows
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TTG Mena Luxury will be distributed at these shows
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ILTM Asia: ILTM Asia offers visitors an exciting programme of four days of business and social networking events, tailored to the needs of the luxury travel industry. Unlike any other event in the Asia Pacific region, ILTM Asia aims to showcase only the world's most sought after destinations and ultra-unique travel experiences to the most discerning luxury travel buyers from across the Asia Pacific. A 'by invitation only' event, ILTM Asia offers a tailor-made diary of one-to-one meetings, exclusive insight into luxury travel trends and developments, plus an enviable business and social networking calendar of events to help visitors engage with luxury travel's elite. "ILTM Asia is a rewarding event for us. All the buyers are well qualified and relevant to the luxury hospitality space. It is the first show we put on our marketing calendar each year," commented area director, Small Luxury HotelS of the World – Asia Pacific, Mark Wong.
AIBTM: next issue
June 15, 2011
July 1, 2011
DESTINATION INDIAN OCEAN
DESTINATION KSA
ON LOCATION GREECE
UPDATE SYRIA
ANALYSIS SERVICED RESIDENCES
ON LOCATION SWITZERLAND
SPOTLIGHT F&B
SPOTLIGHT BRUNEI
FORUM FUTURE TRAVEL
ANALYSIS ECOTOURISM
RAMADAN & EID PROMOTIONS
RAMADAN & EID PROMOTIONS
June 1 2011 • ttgmena.com
AIBTM is the first large-scale exhibition to bring together the world's entire meetings and events industry in one US location. The show will offer the most focused, individually qualified buyers in a forum where they will connect with exhibitors from around the globe. A one-to-one appointment schedule means no time is wasted, business is generated and time is maximised. With a strong focus on innovation and knowledge, the education programme will provide thought provoking and invigorating content, while America Meetings Week will raise the profile of the meetings and events industry to the wider business market and political community across North America. Since AIBTM’s Hosted Buyer registration opened, 1,000 top decision makers are in the process of being qualified, representing 50 per cent of the anticipated 2,000 Hosted Buyers who will attend AIBTM this June. As predicted, applications are coming in from group coordinators, media partners and by individuals who are applying via the exhibition’s website.