BTN 9th March 2011

www.breakingtravelnews.comITB Berlin Special Edition Wednesday 9 March 2011

Travel Triumphs

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www.breakingtravelnews.comITB Berlin Special Edition Wednesday 9 March 2011

Travel Triumphs

Just over 500 days remain until the London2012 Olympic Games, with momentum in theBritish capital gathering pace as the OpeningCeremony approaches.

Nearly six years of work have already goneinto the preparations since London beat Parisfor the right to host the event, with theopening of the Velodrome just the latestmilestone passed.

Nicknamed the Pringle by local residents - inhomage to its distinctive design - the venuewill host the cycling and BMX competitionsduring the 2012 Games.

Jeremy Hunt, British secretary of state forculture, Olympics, media and sport, said: “The progress on the Velodrome has beenphenomenal and it is fitting that it should bethe first venue on the Olympic Park to befinished, given the gold medal hopes we havefor our British Olympic Track Cycling team at the Games.

“Watching Chris Hoy and Victoria Pendletonchristen the track today was a historic first in the countdown to London 2012.”

Outside of the capital events are alsodeveloping apace, with the Lee Valley WhiteWater Centre – which will host CanoeSlalom – completed late last year.

Schedule

With venues coming on stream, organisers alsowhetted appetites recently by releasing thefinalised sporting schedule for the Games.Athletes competing in cycling, archery,swimming and judo will be among those toreceive the first gold medals, with competitionstaking place on the day following the OpeningCeremony - Saturday 28th July.

Some eight million tickets will go on sale laterthis month, with tourists from around the worldexpected to descend on London for theduration of the event.

LOCOG chair, Sebastian Coe, explained: “OnMarch 15th the application process opens to bepart of the greatest show on earth.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to seethe world’s greatest athletes going for gold inthe UK – a chance for people to see theirfavourite sport and perhaps try a new one.

“Our message today is simple – mark the datein your diary and sign up to our ticketing site atwww.tickets.london2012.com to receive all theinformation you need to help you with theprocess.”

Hotels – reportedly resisting the urge to raiseprices so far – have reported a boost tooccupancy rates during the games, whileairlines are preparing to offer additional airliftahead of the Games.

Rio de Janeiro 2016

But London is just the latest city to benefit fromthis crown jewel of the $600bn a year sportstourism industry.

While Qatar 2022 grabbed most of theheadlines over the past year, it was largelyoverlooked that Brazil – and in particular Rio deJaneiro – is set to become the next destinationof choice for sports fans from around the world.

Rio will take the Olympic mantel from Londonduring the Closing Ceremony on August 12th2012, when the countdown to the first games inSouth America will begin. Before that, however,is the small matter of the FIFA World Cup,which will visit the country in 2014 in aremarkable double header.

As WSDE Sport Tourism Expo director SionRapson explained: “Sports tourism is thefastest growing sector in international travel,with Brazil riding the crest of the wave.”

More information on Brazil can be found atStand Halle 1.1 /203.

National, regional and city tourist boards with asport tourism portfolio as well as hotels andresorts offering sporting facilities – from Braziland around the world – will also be convergingin Thailand later this year for the WSDE SportTourism Expo – as Bangkok hosts the annualevent from 27th-29th September.

Here at ITB Berlin, Bayern Tourism will behosting a seminar entitled ‘Effects of majorsporting events on tourist infrastructure takingthe example of Bavaria’ on March 10th at 11:00in Press Conference Room, Hall 5.3.

Meanwhile the ‘Social and Economic Impacts ofa Sports Event illustrated by the Schladming2010 Alpine Race’ will be explored on the sameday at 17:15 in Bühne Halle 5.1.

London 2012 Olympic GamesCrown Jewel of Sports TourismWith less than 18 months to go until the Opening Ceremony the pieces arebeginning to fall into place for the London 2012 Olympics. The Velodromeis the latest venue to open, with the stadium expected to be completedlater this year. Breaking Travel News checks on the progress made so far.

for all the latest travel news: www.breakingtravelnews.com

The London 2012 Olympic Stadium isexpected to be completed later this year


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Sport Tourism Leadsthe Field in 2011

Sport Tourism – for manyyears considered to be thesleeping giant of the travelindustry – truly came of agein 2010.

South Africa announced itselfon the global stage with aspectacular FIFA World Cup –an event which truly unifiedthe country, indeed thecontinent, as never before -while the hosts of the nexttwo tournaments – Russiaand Qatar - have beengenerating innumerableheadlines many years beforethey take their turn in thelimelight.

This year also promises to bejust as memorable, with anaction-packed calendartaking shape. WSDE SportsDestination Expo – the GlobalMarket Place for SportTourism – is also set to returnfor its second annualincarnation, visiting Bangkokin September.

Sports Tourism

Leading analysts predict thefastest growing sector in theindustry will post recordprofits and contribute anastonishing 14 per cent ofoverall travel and tourismreceipts by the end of 2011.

Many reasons account for theboom, with the continuedsportification of society keyamong them.

The 21st century is witnessingtraditional sun and seavacations – the main stay ofthe travel and tourismindustry – being replaced byactivity sport relatedvacations and a new breed oftourists keen to attend anever increasing calendar ofreadily-accessible mega-sporting events.

For example, the ICC CricketWorld Cup is presentlydelighting crowds in Asia.

India, Bangladesh and SriLanka have come together tohost the event, with 49 gamesscheduled over six weeks.

Favorites India have been thecentre of attention early on,but strong performancesfrom South Africa, Englandand Australia have left thefield wide open. With the finalscheduled for April 2nd inDelhi many more excitinggames are sure to fill TVscreens around the worldover the coming month.

Head over to the IndiaTourism stand - Hall5.2B/201+202 – for the latestinformation.

Asia, more generally, is alsoleading the charge towardsports tourism and is gearedup to once again lead the fieldin 2011.

From the ICC Cricket World Cup, through to theRugby World Cup in New Zealand later in the year,2011 promises to be sporting extravaganza. WSDESport Destination Expo also returns to examinethe trends in this increasingly significant sector,visiting Bangkok in September.

The ICC World Cup is grippingcrowds across Asia at present


breakingtravelnews.com 5

Sports Tourism in Asia

Since Beijing successfully hosted the OlympicGames in 2008, the continent has remained inthe sport tourism spotlight and its unrivalledsporting infrastructure and integratedapproach to leisure tourism has reapedconsiderable rewards.

This proven track record has resulted in theannouncement that the next edition of WSDESport Destination Expo will take place inBangkok, Thailand, between September 27th-29th.

The event – the first global exhibition andbusiness forum dedicated to showcasing the$600 billion a year sport tourism industry –was successfully launched last year and is setto play a catalytic role in sparking tourismrecovery in 2011.

Also in Asia this year the FINA WorldSwimming Championships will be held inShanghai, China, from July 16th-31st.

Following on from its first-ever F1 Grand Prix inOctober 2010, South Korea will again be underthe spotlight when Daegu hosts the IAAF WorldAthletics Championships later this year.

Organisers will also be hoping that Usain Boltwill again be in unbeatable form and attract afull house to Daegu Stadium, one of the hostarenas of the 2002 FIFA World Cup finals.

In November 2011, Indonesia will be the hostnation of the Southeast Asian Games (SEAGames), which will see the 11 countries ofSoutheast Asia going head-to-head in a multi-sport event.

Rugby World Cup

The sporting event expected to grab theheadlines later in 2011 is the Rugby World Cupin New Zealand – the spiritual home of rugbyunion.

When New Zealand’s All Blacks kick-off againstTonga at Auckland’s Eden Park on September9th the match will see six years of hard workbecome a reality for the tournamentorganisers.

Tourism New Zealand, the country’s tourismboard, is one of the organisations playing ahuge role in the hosting of the year’s megaevent.

Gregg Anderson, general manager Westernlong haul markets at Tourism New Zealand,explained the importance of the event: “TheRugby World Cup is absolutely crucial to NewZealand’s tourism industry.

“The 2011 World Cup will bring a lot of visitorsdown to New Zealand and what we are aimingfor is to provide not just a sporting experience,but also a spiritual experience for our visitorsto enjoy and talk about when they leave.

“The second major legacy will be theinvestment in infrastructure and sportingstadiums.”

One of the major projects has been theredevelopment of Auckland’s iconic Eden Parkstadium.

A three-year, NZ$240million (£114m)refurbishment includes a new six-level, 21,500-seat South Stand and a new three-tier EastStand. The capacity of Eden Park has beenincreased to 60,000 and the stadium will hostthe finals and the opening and closingceremonies.

The AMI Stadium in Christchurch also has anew stand and the capacity has beenincreased to around 43,000. The city ofDunedin is getting the only brand new stadium– The Forsyth Barr Stadium

The new stadia will be vital as approximately85,000 fans are expected for the tournament,with Anderson predicting huge numberstravelling from the UK.

“New Zealand will see 85,000 visitors comefrom across all markets,” he added. “We areexpecting 32,000-33,000 from across Europe,with the vast majority from the UK.

“This will provide a huge injection for thevisitor industry and we will get coverage andpublicity that we have not seen on a globalscale since the Lords of the Rings films and thelast British and Irish Lions rugby tour in 2005.”

Looking to the Future

With the schedule for 2011 now in place,attention is turning to 2012 with the LondonOlympics set to be the main event.

Cyclists were recently treated to a first viewingof the completed Velodrome, while the LeeValley White Water Centre has also come onstream, giving British competitors time topractice before the main event.

Some eight million tickets will be available tospectators from around the world fromMarch 15th, with many events expected tosell out in days.

With guests from around the world expectedin town for the event, City.Mobi has recentlylaunched London.Mobi. This definitive guideprovides guests with all they need to knowabout this incredible destination, fromentertainment info to booking hotels andairport transfers.

City.Mobi offers the most comprehensivemobile travel guides available, with over 800cities in 200 countries listed. Each isdeveloped by the City.Mobi team to combineinto a single global travel directory.

Key features include information onaccommodation, restaurants, attractions,entertainment, nightlife, shopping, andtransport. City.Mobi guides include userreviews and traveller utilities such as atranslation guide, currency converter, newsand local weather guide

FIFA World Cup

The FIFA World Cup has been generatingheadlines this year, following the election ofRussia and Qatar as hosts for the 2018 and2022 tournaments respectively.

Russia – which will also host the 2014 WinterOlympics in Sochi – has proved to be arelatively uncontroversial choice following itsselection, with preparations well underway.

However, Qatar has come under closerscrutiny, with concerns over player safetyinitially raised during the soaringtemperatures in the Middle East during thesummer. Plans involving moving thetournament to the winter, or sharing it withother Middle Eastern states, were mootedbefore eventually being shelved, with Qatarinsisting the tournament would go ahead asplanned.

Air conditioning will be employed to coolplayers during games, while the nation hasample resources to build the eight stadiumsrequired for the tournament.

Brazil has also been quietly preparing for thetournament, after being selected as host for2014 in 2009. Major redevelopments areunderway at the world famous MaracanãStadium in Rio – which will host the final ofthe tournament – while 11 eleven otherstadiums across the country are beingupgraded in anticipation of the tournament ata cost of £500 million.

Construction of a highspeed rail network isalso planned linking Campinas, São Paulo andRio de Janeiro – at a cost of £4.1 billion.

High stakes indeed as the internationalsports tourism sector continues to go fromstrength to strength.

To find out more visit City.Mobi

WSDE Sport Destination Expowill visit Bangkok in September






10 breakingtravelnews.com

Jumeirah Group, theDubai-based luxuryhospitality company,is close to unveilingthe highly-anticipatedJumeirah at EtihadTowers, Abu Dhabilater this year.

Scheduled to open in September2011, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers,Abu Dhabi will represent theDubai-based group’s first ventureinto the capital of the United ArabEmirates.

The property is located on theshores of the Arabian Gulf alongAbu Dhabi’s Corniche, 37km fromAbu Dhabi International Airport.

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers wasdeveloped under the patronageof His Highness Sheikh Suroorbin Mohammed Al Nahyan’sProjects Department witharchitects DBI Australia startingwork on this unique project inJanuary 2006.

Iconic Design

The iconic beachfront project willfeature five towers, including a280m luxury hotel (Jumeirah atEtihad Towers), a prestigiousoffice tower with 46,000m² ofleasable office space and anobservation deck, and threetowers housing 897 apartments.

The connecting four-level Podiumwill feature contemporaryrestaurants and 30 premiumboutiques. Level 2 and 3 of thepodium, are connected to theheart of the hotel; home to asophisticated lobby bar and theGrand Lobby that featurespanoramic sea views.

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers ismade up of 396 guest rooms andsuites, 199 serviced residencesand 13 restaurants, bars andlounges. The hotel also offers a130m private beach, a Talise spa,pool, health club and extensiveconference centre with 13 meetingrooms and a grand ballroom.

The dramatic sculptural forms ofthe towers compliment thesophisticated and contemporary

interior design, with a culturaledge. Art works from HisHighness’ private collectionprovide a local Arabian touch inpublic areas and conference pre-function areas.

Guest Rooms & Suites

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers has 66floors with 396 beautifullyappointed guest rooms & suites,each with warm contemporarydécor and furnishings. All roomsand suites offer stunning seaviews and range from 40m² to60m² in floor area with the latestfully integrated lifestyletechnology.

Level 60 is the Royal Etihad Suitewhich spans 980m² and featuresfour bedrooms and two Majlisareas, with Butler service, as wellas exclusive pieces of fine art anda specially-designed grand piano.

The exclusive Club Lounge islocated on Level 45 and providescomplimentary meals and drinksservice throughout the day, as wellan internet lounge, shower suites,and a business centre with fourmeeting rooms. Club Executive

privileges can be booked with anyroom type and include access tothe Club Lounge.

The 199 fully serviced residencesvary from studios of 57m² tospacious one, two and threebedroom apartments of up to170m². All inspirationally designedresidences offer irresistible seaviews and share an exclusivereception area.

Fine dining

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers offers achoice of 13 restaurants, bars andlounges with a variety of diverseculinary options. The collection ofsea view restaurants on ThePodium include a chic Lebaneserestaurant and a luxurious all daydining restaurant, both withoutdoor terrace seating, a classicFrench brasserie, a stylishJapanese restaurant and lounge,and a casual beach restaurant.

The pool bars on the outdoor poolterrace offer a selection of juices,smoothies and other drinks aswell as a menu of light bites andsnacks.

Jumeirah at Etihad Towersprepares for grand opening


11breakingtravelnews.com

The hotel offers a beach-inspiredcasual restaurant in addition to Scott’sSeafood Restaurant, which is locatedon the water off the beach.

A lavishly appointed bar is located onLevel 62. The exquisite pan-Asianrestaurant of the hotel is housed onLevel 63. Both levels have stunningviews of the Corniche and the AbuDhabi cityscape; offering guests asophisticated dining experience withviews to match.

Guests can also relax and indulge in thehotel’s Lobby Lounge and bar.

Conference & Banqueting

Extensive conference & banquetingfacilities are provided through the hotel’spurpose built Conference Centre,located on Podium Level 4. TheConference Centre is among the largestin Abu Dhabi and features 13 meetingrooms and a stunning ballroom. Theballroom can comfortablyaccommodate up to 1,400 guests for aconference or 1000 guests for dinner,and can be divided into four separatesections. The centre also offers spaciouspre-function areas as well as a greenroom and business centre facilities. Oneof the more unique designs has provideda service elevator to the ballroom withthe capacity to lift cars.

Talise Spa

The Talise Spa at Jumeirah at EtihadTowers is located on Podium Level 3Mand is comprised of 14 private treatmentsuites, a hammam and a Rasoulchamber (a traditional Middle Easterncleansing and exfoliation treatment,using mud, steam and oil).

Sports & Leisure

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers offers ahealth club with state of the artTechnoGym equipment on PodiumLevel 3M, next to Talise Spa as well as a130m private beach.

For guests looking for lower impactrecreation, a landscaped oasis of poolsand gardens provide a tranquil space.The hotel also houses a selection of highend shopping with over 30 premiumboutiques located in the hotel.

Jumeirah Group, the Dubai-based luxuryhospitality company and a member ofDubai Holding, operates a world-classportfolio of hotels and resorts.

Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts includes BurjAl Arab, voted “World’s Leading Hotel”and “World’s Leading Presidential Suite”at 2010 World Travel Awards. Othericonic properties include JumeirahBeach Hotel, Jumeirah Emirates Towers,Madinat Jumeirah, and Jumeirah ZabeelSaray; Jumeirah Carlton Tower andJumeirah Lowndes Hotel in London; andJumeirah Essex House in New York.

Jumeirah Group also runs the luxuryserviced residences brand JumeirahLiving; the spa brand Talise; JumeirahRestaurants; Wild Wadi Waterpark; TheEmirates Academy of Hospitality.

To find out more about Jumeirah atEtihad Towers at ITB Berlin visit Hall22.B/210



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New developmentsin the Middle East

Emirates Palace in cultural drive

Echi nel Tempo – Echoes through Time is ashow of artworks by Lisa Mounteer-Watson,presented by Swiss Art Gate UAE at EmiratesPalace, Abu Dhabi, Mezzaluna until May 29th2011. Under the patronage of H.E. RichardOlson, Ambassador of the United States to theUnited Arab Emirates and H.E. Wolfgang-Amadeus Bruelhart, Ambassador ofSwitzerland to the United Arab Emirates. In her art, Lisa Mounteer-Watson seeks toreflect the unseen resonance of theenvironment in which she is painting. Mr. Kees Heuveling, Hotel Manager of EmiratesPalace, said about the displayed artwork: “Atthe Emirates Palace we strive to promoteefforts to enrich the cultural life and promotecultural tourism to visitors coming to EmiratesPalace and with the Mezzaluna restaurant, agood example.”

Hilton enters United Arab Emirates

Hilton Worldwide's Waldorf-Astoria isscheduled to open in the emirate of Ras AlKhaimah at the end of 2011, marking thebrand's entry into the UAE, according toreports.

The Arabian-themed "palatial" Waldorf-Astoriahotel will have 349 rooms, several outdoorswimming pools, and ten restaurants and bars,including four fine-dining restaurants.

Al Hamra Group is developing the hotel whichis part of a mixed-use development andincludes an 18-hole championship golf course,a 600-metre private beach and a conventioncentre.

Coral Hotels opens in Abu Dhabi

Coral Hotels and Resorts is planning the soft-opening of its first hotel in the UAE capital, AbuDhabi.

Located next to the City Terminal in downtownAbu Dhabi, Liwa Executive Suites features 18Coral Club suites and 36 Deluxe suites, fitnesscentre, male and female saunas and rooftoppool plus a dedicated business centre andthree meeting rooms that can cater forseminars or boardroom meetings for up to 50people.

Regency Group expands in Qatar

UAE-based Regency Group Holding is openingits latest hotel property in Qatar. Managed byUK-headquartered Wyndham Hotel Group, theRamada Encore Hotel Doha features 111 guestrooms, food and beverage facilities, aconference room, heated indoor swimmingpool, and free wired internet access in allrooms. Following on from a soft opening, theproperty has already been receiving customers.

Rezidor in Kuwait expansion

The Rezidor Hotel Group has opened HotelMissoni Kuwait in collaboration with the iconicItalian fashion house Missoni. The 169-room,all-inclusive property is Rezidor’s second HotelMissoni – the first opened in June 2009 inEdinburgh, Scotland.

The hotel also features extensive meetingspace, a modern high-performance aiminggym, a steam room, a sauna and a pool deck

overlooking the city. A 1,500-square metreluxury Six Senses Spa, is set to open to guestsand non-residents later in the year.

Meanwhile state-of-the-art technology includesiPads for check-in, the latest Bang & OlufsenTVs in guest rooms, and ‘Magic Mirrors’,present in the suite bathrooms which enableguests to convert their bathroom mirror into atelevision.

“Hotel Missoni Kuwait is a fantastic addition tothe Rezidor’s growing portfolio across theMiddle East. Opening a Hotel Missoni here is atrue celebration for our company, as it was inKuwait where we once opened our firstinternational hotel outside Scandinavia,” saidKurt Ritter, President and CEO of Rezidor.

Qatar stops Gatwick flights

Doha-based Qatar Airways will cease flights toGatwick Airport from June 1st after sevenyears. The decision to withdraw its daily flightfrom Gatwick was attributed to commercialreasons.

Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways’commented: “We are extremely sad to be losingLondon Gatwick from our network after servingthe route for the past seven years. But followinga thorough review and analysis over the pastfew months, we have concluded that we couldno longer sustain the route for commercialreasons. While we continue to grow ourbusiness, developing the network further, we doit prudently, cautiously and carefully.”

Qatar will continue to operate unchangedservices out of Heathrow and has recentlyannounced plans to boost its Manchester

Emirates Palace has boosted its cultural credentials



flights to twice daily. As of June, Dubai-basedEmirates will become the sole Gulf-basedcarrier operating from Gatwick.

UNWTO welcomes tourismrecuperation in Egypt and Tunisia

As normality returns to Egypt and Tunisia, theUN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)welcomed efforts by national authorities torestore confidence among tourists and byforeign governments to update travel advisoriesaccordingly.

Tourism is a central component of bothcountries’ economies and, as tourists begin toreturn, can play an important role in overalleconomic recovery.

“As the situation has evolved over the past fewweeks, I have been pleased to see that traveladvisories have been kept accurate, confined tothe affected areas, and regularly updated,” saidUNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai.

Tourism has long been, and will continue to be,an integral part of the Egyptian and Tunisiannational economies. International tourismreceipts over GDP alone represent around 6% inEgypt and 10% in Tunisia. This share is evenhigher when the full tourism sector isconsidered, reaching as much as 11% in thecase of Egypt.

Fairmont plans Riyadh hotel

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is to manage a 287-room hotel and 4,000sqm convention centre, aspa and fine dining facility in Riyadh, which isdue to open late 2012. The convention centrewill contain two main ballrooms offering1,500sqm each and groups will have access to anumber of smaller conference and boardrooms.

Located just north of the city, Fairmont RiyadhBusiness Gate will be part of a new mixed-usedevelopment project comprising the hotel,convention centre and commercial real estatespace that will house multinational corporations as well as regional companies.

“Riyadh is currently undergoing tremendousdevelopment, becoming a key financial andbusiness destination for not only Saudia Arabia,but the Middle East,” said Chris Cahill, President,Fairmont Hotels & Resorts. “The influx of bothpublic and private investment is creating a greatopportunity for business travel.”

Air Liban joins SkyTeam alliance

Middle East Airlines – Air Liban (MEA),Lebanon’s flagship carrier has signed anagreement to join the SkyTeam alliance in 2012,making it the second carrier from the MiddleEast to join the alliance after Saudi ArabianAirlines.

Mohamad El-Hout, chairman and directorgeneral of MEA, said: “MEA being relatively asmall airline, will now be able to provide itscustomers an extensive global network coveringEurope, Asia, Africa and the Americas. MEAcustomers will benefit from SkyTeam members‚loyalty programmes as well as SkyTeam loungesat all airports worldwide.”

Bavaria adds 2,500 rooms in Mena

Bavaria Hotels International (BHI) has a host ofnew hotels that are presently underconstruction in the Mena region and scheduledto open over the next 24 months.

Thomas Gertz CEO of Bavaria explains theirgroup strategy: “Our expansion is based on ourestablished set of competitive edge standardsby which we measure all projects. From the veryonset of management discussions, a decision istaken whether to proceed with projects basedon the ability to apply these standards to theend product.

“We work with developers who share the BHIphilosophies and passions, and in return offerdynamic management agreements with anunderlying minimum performance guarantee.”

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Egypt is returning to the international tourist trail

Qatar Airways will refocus its operations on Heathrow





The Dominican Republic (DR) Ministry ofTourism welcomed over four million visitors in2010, a new record for the DR and a 3.3percent increase over 2009. MeanwhileJamaica Tourist Board reported an 11 percentincrease in UK visitors for November 2010compared to the previous year.

BA revealed that the Caribbean featuredheavily in its top ten destinations for 2011, withSt Kitts & Nevis, Puerto Rico, and St Luciaamongst most popular destination choices fortravellers.

A host of brand new resorts, spas and newflight routes are opening up to accommodatethis surge in visitors.

According to the World Tourism Organization,the Caribbean is more dependent on traveland tourism than almost any other region. Ofthe ten countries in the world most dependenton tourism, seven are in the Caribbean.

BTN has compiled a round up of some of theexciting developments in and around theCaribbean.

New hotels and resorts

Work has begun on the $3.4 billion Baha Mar,the largest resort development in the history ofthe Caribbean, which is slated to open in late2014.

Located on Nassau’s Cable Beach, thedevelopment will boast a roster of names inluxury hospitality including Rosewood Hotels &Resorts, Morgans Hotel Group, Hyatt Hotels &Resorts, and a Casino Hotel, creating a total of2,250 new rooms.

Although aimed primarily at the NorthAmerican market, which makes up the vast

majority of tourist visitors to the Bahamas, thefacilities are also expected to attract a globalclientele, including emerging markets such asBrazil and China.

It is also estimated that Baha Mar willcontribute an additional 10 percent growth inthe Bahamian GDP, and almost $1 billion to thelocal economy in its first year in operation. Itwill employ an estimated 8,000 staff. Baha Mar’s Chairman and CEO, SarkisIzmirlian, commented: “Baha Mar representsthe birth of a new generation of destinationresorts that will compete on a world scale.”

Coco Reef owner John Jefferis is planning anew five star resort in Panama which will belocated on a private island. In a recent interviewJefferis told BTN that 2011 would be even morechallenging than 2010 as customers look forbigger discounts on their holidays. He revealedthat Coco Reef have increased their marketingbudget for 2011 and plan to do more jointpromotions with tour operators.

Casa de Campo in Dominican Republic istargeting golfers with the introduction of theJim McClean Golf School.

The five-star Buccament Bay in St Vincent andthe Grenadines is the ultimate amusementresort for families and couples, boasting aLiverpool FC soccer school and a Pat CashTennis Academy, as well as an Island SanctuarySpa and a Diving and watersports Centre.

The newly refurbished Renaissance St CroixCarambola Beach Resort and Spa in the USVirgin Islands has a private beach, spa facilitiesand plenty of bars and restaurants to choosefrom.

Five-star boutique hotel, Eden Roc LuxuryBeach Resort and Spa in the DominicanRepublic is set to be popular with those opting

for a luxurious Caribbean break. It opens inOctober 2011, and features 37 spa-villas, eachwith their own swimming pool.

Five new villas are opening in Nonsuch Bay,Antigua and they are thought to be among themost affordable in the Caribbean. The resortboasts three infinity pools and the nearbyGreen Island Reef Marine Reserve makes itperfect for sailing enthusiasts.

Located beside the El Yunque NationalRainforest, The St Regis Bahia Resort in PuertoRico offers an exotic escape complete with agolf, course, luxury spa and legendary butlerservice.

On the heels of its 30th anniversary, SandalsResorts International (SRI) is reinvigorating itsproduct with multi-million dollar developmentprojects at its Sandals Grande Riviera Beach &Villa Golf Resort, Sandals WhitehouseEuropean Village & Spa resort and BeachesBoscobel Resort & Golf Club in Jamaica.Updates are part of a larger enhancementprogram throughout the Sandals ResortsInternational portfolio.

Set in lush tropical gardens, Goldeneye resortis where Ian Flemming wrote all 13 of his Bondnovels. With 11 new luxury cottages, six newlagoon sites and a private beach, Goldeneyeoffers an idyllic setting for some privacy.

The extensively renovated Fairmont RoyalPavilion has benefited from its makeover ofupgraded rooms and new junior suites with fullbutler room service.

The Jewel Dunn’s River Resort in Jamaica is anewly furbished luxury all-inclusive resort,featuring a concierge service as well asromantic poolside movies and candlelit diningon the pier.

Caribbean preparesfor unprecedentedgrowth in 2011From the new Pinewood film studio set to open inthe Dominican Republic to the $3.4 billion megaBaha Mar resort that recently broke ground in theBahamas, all eyes are on the Caribbean in 2011.



New Flights: Carriers plan newroutes to the Caribbean

From 27 March 2011, BA will be increasing itsflights to the Caribbean, as well as launching anew service from London to Puerto Rico on the28 March 2011. This will boost BA flights to theCaribbean to 63 a week across 15 destinations. Meanwhile Trinidad & Tobago-based carrierCaribbean Airlines has won approval from theUnited States Department of Transport for thelaunch of new routes linking Jamaica toAmerica. The decision allows CaribbeanAirlines to operate flights from Jamaicadirectly to the United States in CaribbeanAirlines aircraft.

Meanwhile Continental Airlines hasinaugurated non-stop flights between its NewYork hub at Newark Liberty InternationalAirport (EWR) and Providenciales, Turks andCaicos Islands (PLS). The flights are nowoperating as a daily service.

The Caribbean destination will also becomeJetBlue's 39th destination, with a dailyservice from New York's John F. KennedyInternational Airport (JFK) and weeklySaturday service out of Boston's LoganInternational Airport commencing toProvidenciales last month.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is preparing to offeran additional 2,600 seats each week to theCaribbean. The expansion will start whenKLM’s winter schedule goes into effect on 30October 2011.

New Ferry Travel: A new ferryservice to connect the Caribbean

A new daily ferry service that will connectBarbados, Saint Lucia, Trinidad, Grenada, andSt Vincent is currently being developed byBEDY Ocean Line.

New cruise port at Falmouth,Jamaica

A new port terminal has been built onJamaica’s North Coast in Falmouth, which isnow open. The port has shops, restaurants anda residential area where fly-cruise visitors canspend time before or after their cruise.

Destination News: PinewoodStudios to open Caribbean branch

Pinewood Studios is set to open a new film andTV studios in the Dominican Republic, calledPinewood Indomina Studios. The new studiowill comprise of a 5,000 square metres ofsound stage space, along with 15,000 squaremetres of production support facilities.

Caribbean Awards

The 2011 Caribbean & The Americas WorldTravel Awards ceremony will be held this yearat Sandals Royal Caribbean, Montego Bay onMay 11th.

With the Caribbean going from strength tostrength, City.Mobi has recently launchedJamaica.City.Mobi – this definitive guideprovides you need to know about thisincredible destination, from entertainment infoto booking hotels and airport transfers.

Visit the Caribbean Tourism Organisation atITB Berlin in Hall 3.1/201.


Casa de Campo is targeting travellerswith its golf offering

Caribbean Airlines has seen significantgrowth since its merger with Air Jamaica

Sandals is reinvigorating its productwith multi-million dollar development


T U R K S & C A I C O S

Q

While the kids are away, adults can enjoy more choices on land and water,

i


J A M A I C A T U R K S & C A I C O S

Q UA L I T Y I N C LU S I O N S T H A N A N Y O T H E R R E S O R T S I N T H E W O R L D

With four spectacular locations on the most beautiful beaches in Jamaica and

the Turks & Caicos, Beaches resorts are the ultimate family getaway and the most

comprehensive holiday available in the Caribbean. Packed with fun, excitement

and adventure for all ages Beaches Resorts welcomes families, couples and

singles! A Beaches Luxury Included® Family Holiday means more quality inclusions

and more exciting choices than any other in the world, and IT’S ALL INCLUDED!

With up to 29 room categories per resort with 1, 2 or 3 bedroom suites and adjoining

rooms, Beaches cater to small and large families alike. Kids love our Kids Camps with

exciting programmes, such as the exclusive Caribbean Adventure with Sesame Street®

and Martha Stewart Crafts Studio™*. Teens can do their own thing at XBOX 360® Game

Garage, mix and scratch at Scratch DJ Academy®±, relax at Trench Town arcade lounge±

or dance at Liquid nightclub±, and more. Unique to Beaches are the non-stop thrills

included at the Caribbean’s most exhilarating Pirates Island Waterparks± with up to

9 slides. While the kids are away, adults can enjoy more choices on land and water,

including golf, waterskiing± and scuba diving, or try more dining options with up to 16

restaurants per resort and more premium brand liquors at up to 13 bars per resort.

Sie finden Sandals und Beaches Resorts in der Karibikhalle 3.1. am Jamaika Stand 208. Wir freuen uns auf Ihren Besuch!

Please visit Sandals and Beaches Resorts in the Caribbean Hall 3.1. at the Jamaica booth 208. We are looking forward to meeting you!

*at cost ±at selected resorts.

WORLD’S LEADINGFAMILY ALL-INCLUSIVE

A proud sponsor of


World Travel AwardsCaribbean & The Americas Gala Ceremony 2 011Sandals Royal Caribbean, Montego Bay, Jamaica11 May 2011





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Financial Times

“The travel industry's most high-profile award ceremony” The Independent



The Jamaica Tourist Boardreported an 11 percent increase inUK visitor arrival numbers inNovember 2010 - equating to16,441 tourists travelling to theisland, compared to 14,806 lastyear, bringing the total number ofvisitors since the beginning of2010 to 167,366. These figures areindicative that Jamaica could hittheir target of an 8% growth ofvisitors in 2011.

As visitor figures continue to rise,new developments are poppingup all over the island, includingthe long awaited opening of abrand new Convention Centre inMontego Bay that is alreadyseeing demand for majorconferences and recently openedits doors to the CaribbeanMarketplace 2011.

The Tourist Board hope thatJAMEX will further intensify theiroutreach to the MICE marketwhen it takes place on island inJune.

In other developments, there havebeen a number of hotelrefurbishments and openings,with new major developments inthe pipeline by Excellence Groupand Harmony Cove. MeanwhileJamaica’s popular Goldeneyeresort - where Ian Flemmingwrote 13 of his Bond novels - hasjust re-opened with 11 new luxurycottages, six new lagoon sites anda private beach.

Jamaica's new "HistoricFalmouth" port received its firstship of 3, 000 passengers onFebruary 18th. The portdevelopment, a joint venture of Royal Caribbean and theJamaica Port Authority, is beingbilled as "the first-ever thematiccruise port".

Whilst airlift continues to be amajor challenge for Jamaica, themerger of Caribbean Airlines andAir Jamaica brings newopportunities to the island.

The Air Jamaica brand wasrecently re-launched, with newlivery featuring the airline’s iconicsignature colours and Doctor Birdpaired with the Caribbean Airlineslogo and the Hummingbird,presenting a vibrantdemonstration of this newpartnership.

“As Air Jamaica and CaribbeanAirlines began the transitiontowards one Caribbean airline, itbecame clear that even as theoutward signs of Air Jamaica werephased out in the marketplace,loyal passengers remainedconfident in the signature travelexperience it delivered,”commented George MichaelNicholas III, Chairman of theBoard of Directors, CaribbeanAirlines.

A free baggage allowance is ineffect for all passengers at alltimes, allowing two checked bagsand one carry-on, with a 70lbweight limit for each bag inLovebird Executive Class and50lbs each in Lovebird EconomyClass.

Other benefits to lure travellersback include no additional feesfor booking online; tickets canalso be purchased at Air Jamaicacounters at its destinationairports. A solid frequent flyerbase will continue to benefit fromthe 7th Heaven Rewards programoffering liberal upgrades, freetickets and more.

A new fleet of Boeing 737-800aircraft is on the horizon.Scheduled to be in operation bythe end of April 2011, the aircraft

will improve the on-timeperformance of Air Jamaica aswell as the overall passengerflight experience.

Leaders have outlined ambitiousplans for new code shareagreements and new routes withLondon in coming months.

Caribbean Awards

The 2011 Caribbean & TheAmericas World Travel Awards willbe hosted on 11 May at the luxurySandals Royal Caribbean,Montego Bay.

With Jamaica going from trength to strength, City.Mobi has recently launchedJamaica.City.Mobi – thisdefinitive guide provides you needto know about this incredibledestination, from entertainmentinfo to booking hotels and airporttransfers.

City.Mobi offers the mostcomprehensive mobile travelguides available, with over 800cities in 200 countries listed.Each is developed by theCity.Mobi team to combine into asingle global travel directory.

Key features include informationon accommodation, restaurants,attractions, entertainment,nightlife, shopping, and transport.City.Mobi guides include userreviews and traveller utilities suchas a translation guide, currencyconverter, news and local weatherguide.

Visit the Caribbean TourismOrganisation at ITB Berlin in Hall3.1/201.

To find out more about WorldTravel Awards visitworldtravelawards.com

Jamaica has a lot tobe happy about, withvisitor figures up, itsnational carrier backin the skies, a brandnew conferencecentre for its growingMICE market and anew port terminal inFalmouth.

Jamaicasets itssightshigh for2011




Sport in paradiseVoted “World’s Leading Golf Resort” at the 2010 World Travel Awards,Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic is blazing a trail insporting holidays in a paradise setting.


New air lift, beautiful private beaches andplenty of world-class sports action, as well asfabulous cuisine are some of the features ofthe all-new Casa de Campo resort in theDominican Republic – a member of TheLeading Hotels of the World and winner of“World’s Leading Golf Resort” at 2010 WorldTravel Awards.

Casa de Campo is the quintessential tropicalparadise destination providing unparalleledchoices in sports adventures plus newaccommodations, dining, cultural events andmore. Nestled alongside the warm waters ofthe Caribbean Sea, Casa de Campo is arefreshed and contemporary resort, whereaction, relaxation and pampering servicecombine for an unsurpassed vacationexperience.

On this resort’s 7,000 acres you can play polo,go shooting, play tennis, golf on the numberone courses in the tropics, go on trail ridesthrough the Dominican countryside, go sailing(or even learn to sail), deep sea fishing andmore.

At this unique destination enjoy a top qualitysporting vacation amid a selection of world-class dining, accommodations and culturalfacilities. If you would like to learn a new sport– you can; enhance existing skills – noproblem, all this and more is possible at Casade Campo.

For golfers, Casa de Campo is paradise found.Recognized as the “World’s Leading GolfResort” at 2010 World Travel Awards, Casa deCampo is also the new home of the only JimMcLean Golf School in the Caribbean andthree Pete Dye designed resort coursesincluding the Teeth of the Dog – the numberone ranked course in the Caribbean with sevenholes right on the Caribbean Sea. But there ismore beyond the golf greens for sportsenthusiasts.

Casa de Campo also offers: La Terraza TennisCentre; Equestrian Centre; Polo; ShootingCentre; Beaches – the resort’s private MinitasBeach and three island beaches; Fishing;Sailing; Kayaking.

Beyond the confines of the resort, excursionsfor guests include: ziplining, cave adventures,4-wheel buggie explorations, scuba diving andmore.

For the resorts’ non-sporting guests, Casa deCampo also features: The Cygalle Healing Spa;Shopping – over 50 boutique shopsthroughout the resort; Culture – the Altos deChavon village; and movie theatres at theMarina.

There are also Volunteer Vacations – throughthe resort’s support of two charities, guestsmay take a half day, or full day to “give back”during their vacation.

Guests also have a choice of accommodations:choose from one of the luxurious new Elitehotel rooms and Elite suites or a spectacularvilla home.

Re-fueling in between sports adventures is atreat with six spectacular resort restaurantsincluding the renowned Beach Club by Le Cirqueand the new La Caña Restaurant by Il Circo. Youwill also find 14 other independent restaurantsthroughout the resort in which to dine.

Getting to Casa de Campo is easy via theresort’s own international airport just 8-minutes from check in, featuring new flightsbeginning 5 April on American Airlines fromMiami with connecting flights from London(Heathrow), Paris and Madrid. Other nearbyairports include: Punta Cana, with lift fromBritish Airways, about a 75-minute transfer,and the Las Americas International Airport inSanto Domingo with non-stop flights fromthroughout Europe, a 60 minute transfer away.

To find out more about Casa de Campo at ITBBerlin visit Hall 3.1/109

Also visit www.casadecampo.com.do or call+1-809-523-8396.



BTN: You were voted “World’s Leading GolfResort” and “Caribbean’s Leading GolfResort” at World Travel Awards 2010. Why doyou think you won in such a tough category?

CS: The quality golf experience found at Casade Campo can be found nowhere else. Thisyear, our renowned Teeth of the Dog courseturns 40 years old – and if you ask any golferwho has played the course, they can’t believe it.This course – like each of our three Pete Dyedesigned resort courses – Teeth of the Dog,Dye Fore and Links – are maintained in topcondition year round. And when you combinetheir unique challenge, the spectacular beautyof each and the value of the golf experience atour resort you can understand why Casa deCampo was voted “World’s Leading GolfResort” and “Caribbean’s Leading Golf Resort”by World Travel Awards.

BTN: How does Sport Tourism fit into youroverall strategy?

CS: Sports Tourism is valuable component ofour overall strategy. For nowhere else can youfind the great variety and high quality sports ata single destination: 63 holes of golf on the bestcourses in the Caribbean; Tennis on 13-har trucourts – 10 floodlit; equestrian centre withEnglish and Western trail riding, jumping,dressage; polo; 245-acres shooting centre withtrap, skeet, sporting clays and another 20,000acres for hunting; sailing and sailing school,deep sea fishing, and kayaking

BTN: How do you envisage 2011 up forCasa de Campo?

CS: In late 2010, we completed a two-year $40million hotel transformation featuring all newguestrooms, new main area with a new lobby,pool pavilion, fitness centre and a totally newmain kitchen featuring the latest equipment.And since the first of this year, we additionallyopened two new restaurants at the Altos deChavon artists village: the chic OneBurger andDa Ginos Trastevere. 2011 is shaping up to be avery exciting year!

BTN: What are you hoping to achieve atthis year’s ITB?

CS: In addition to our new hotel rooms andmain area, in late 2010 Casa de Campo joinedThe Leading Hotels of the World. At ITB thisyear, we hope to expose attendees to the allnew luxury vacation found in the DominicanRepublic at Casa de Campo!

BTN: And which aspects of the resort areyou most proud of?

CS: This is a tough question as there is somuch I am proud of. First, the personaldedication and full support given by the ownersof Casa de Campo to the employees andfacilities of Casa de Campo to optimize ourguests’ experiences.

BTN: Which markets offer you the greatestgrowth potential?

CS: The luxury markets throughout Europe,China, India, the Middle East and in theAmericas: the US, Brazil, and Venezuela.

BTN: What in the way of plans,development or initiatives are currentlyunderway at your resort?

CS: Our Altos de Chavon artists’ village willcontinue to be a source of growth and evolutionas we continue to explore the culture within theDominican Republic for our guests to enjoy; oursports – especially our golf, will continue toreceive investment funds; and guest servicingthroughout Casa de Campo will also receive acontinuous flow if attention.

BTN: How would you like the resort toevolve?

CS: Casa de Campo is fortunate to have a richhistory of nearly 40 years of providing luxuryvacation experiences in the Caribbean. Overthe years, we have been able to observe trendsas they come and go, so as we look towards thefuture, we have found no reason to deviate fromour strategic plan that we have been followingfor decades: to continue to provide our guests:families, couples, wedding parties, groups andincentives – with a high quality, high valueluxury vacation experience in the Caribbean. Inour guests’ life story of vacation experiences wewould like Casa de Campo to stand out as thegrandest chapter.

BTN: What are the key issues that needaddressing for the Caribbean to evolve as aregion?

CS: Air lift has been and continues to be one ofthe primary challenges for hoteliers throughoutthe region

www.casadecampo.com.do


BTN Spotlight:Claudio Silvestri,President & CEO,Premier Resortsand Hotels, themanagementcompany for Casa de Campo

Casa de Campo CEO Dr. ClaudioSilvestre with John Lynch,

Director, Jamaica Tourist Boardand Graham Cooke, President

and founder, World Travel Awards



Spa-ing it up in the Caribbean

Travellers can find a range of treatmentsavailable, from a Swedish or hot stonesmassage through to aromatherapy. Inaddition, many hotels offer a range ofrelaxation classes including meditation, yoga,Tai Chi and Pilates, and sometimes a range ofcomplementary therapies – for instance Reikiand acupuncture.

The recently opened CuisinArt Resort & Spain Anguilla is truly eco-friendly, using theXeriscape principles of conserving water andenergy through creative landscaping.

A hydropanic farm and organic garden onproperty grow many of the vegetables, flowersand herbs used by both the chefs and thetherapists in the Venus Spa, for treatmentssuch as the Hydroponic Cucumber and AloeWrap.

The Viceroy Resorts & Residences in Anguillaaddresses whole-person health throughcurated wellness experiences founded on thefundamental principles of balance, breath andbeauty. Featuring individual and couple'streatment rooms, salon services and anoutdoor swimming pool. Meditation, cooking,

and healthy lifestyle classes andpresentations add additional dimension to thewellness experience.

The US$11 million Parrat Cay is a modern andluxurious hotel in Turks and Caicos that ispopular with A-listers – including Bruce Willisand Eva Longoria.

The COMO Shambala Retreat offers anoutdoor women only Jacuzzi and one-on-onePilates instruction. An Abhyanga packagecombines massage, Swedana (herbal steam)and Ubtan (a body mud mask) whichenhances circulation and releases impuritiesthrough the skin.

Amanyara, also in the Turks and CaicosIslands, recently announced the debut of theSerenity Villa, a 13,000-square foot wellnessfacility featuring luxurious treatments alongwith yoga and Pilates classes. A wide range ofbeauty services are also offered.

In other news, the property has rolled out newPool Pavilions – each featuring a 12-metre(40-foot) infinity-edged swimming pool.

Centuries-old healing traditions are put intopractise at the Fern Tree Spa at Half MoonResort in Montego Bay. From a massage withheated sea shells and a sugar and allspicebody exfoliation to a “Jamaican Bush Bath”steeped in the local healing herb known as“cerasee”, the spa on the sandy crescentdotted with fragrant gardens is relaxation.

Red Lane Spa is a sanctuary for mind, bodyand soul that reinterprets classic Europeanspa rituals with a distinctive Caribbean flair.Spa treatments utilise botanical products andcustom formulations. Red Lane Spas can befound in Sandals properties in Jamaica,Antigua, St Lucia and Bahamas.

The KiYara Spa at Jamaica Inn is a tropicalCaribbean Spa, nestled in the coral cliffs ofCutlass Bay, just outside of Ocho Rios.

The treatments highlight their philosophy of"In Balance, with Nature" and are drawn fromthe plants of the island, which are sourcedboth from local organic farmers and wild-gathered, by environmentally-sustainablemethods. Their signature treatments, theKiYara Tropical Body Beauty Rituals, are based

Known for its white sandy beaches, remote hideaways and luxurious spas, the Caribbeanspans 2,500 miles with more than 7,000 islands, reefs, and cays.

Most leading hotels in the Caribbean now offer full service spa operations which are led byleading spa companies including Shambhala, Aveda, Molton Brown and ESPA. Here BreakingTravel News checks out the latest developments.

Parrat Cay, Turks and Caicos



on local, herbal traditions, using plantsavailable on the island and consist of threesteps: a Scrub, Masque and Finishing.

Perched 3,100 feet above sea level in the BlueMountains, Strawberry Hill Hotel &Spa combines rich Jamaican heritage, withhealthy conscious living. The Strawberry HillLiving Spa, one of the highlights of theproperty, specialises in stress relief andorganic healing based on the five elementspracticed in Ayurvedic philosophies.

Five treatment rooms include a specialisedhydrotherapy room, a plunge pool, a saunaand a deck for yoga and other outdooractivities. The property's high altitudecaptures the seasonal mountain mists thatcreate an ideal climate for lush plant growthand truly healthful living. Treatments rangefrom a personalised elemental massage to arefreshing lemon grass wrap.

The Sugar Ridge resort in Antigua recentlylaunched a wellness programme designed forthose in need of a health kick. Catering for alllevels of fitness, the retreat offers dailyactivities, specialist treatments and healthyeating cookery classes.

The Meliá Buenavista All Inclusive RoyalService and Spa recently opened in Cuba,offering a secluded spa experience completewith chalet-style accommodation, full butlerservice and a private pool jacuzzi.

Almond Resorts are re-launching their spas as‘Praana spa’ across all Barbados resorts, andwill be the first authentic destination spas tobe introduced on the island.

After major renovations, Hotel Guanahani andSpa in St Barts reopened in December. A newluxury suite, ‘The Admiral Suite’ is a villa stylewith a private beach and lagoon views.

World Travel Awards

The 2011 Caribbean & The Americas WorldTravel Awards will be hosted on 11 May at theluxury Sandals Royal Caribbean, Montego Bay.Visit www.worldtravelawards.com


Key features include information onaccommodation, restaurants, attractions,entertainment, nightlife, shopping, andtransport. City.Mobi guides include userreviews and traveller utilities such as atranslation guide, currency converter, newsand local weather guide.

Visit the Caribbean Tourism Organisation atITB Berlin in Hall 3.1/201.


Red Lane Spa, Sandals Resorts, Jamaica CuisinArt Resort & Spa, Anguilla

Red Lane Spa, SandalsResorts, Jamaica

Red Lane Spa, SandalsResorts, Jamaica




L U X U R YI N C L U D E D

Q

Designed exclusively for couples, Sandals gives you e

S A I N T L U C I A A N T I G U A B A H A M A S

S


Q UA L I T Y I N C LU S I O N S T H A N A N Y OT H E R R E S O R T S O N T H E P L A N E T

Scattered across the dreamlike tropical islands of Jamaica, Antigua, Saint Lucia and the Bahamas are 13 Luxury Included® Sandals resorts, each offering MORE luxury, quality and choice than any other resorts on the planet. Designed exclusively for couples, Sandals gives you everything you’d expect from a luxury resort, the only difference is everything is INCLUDED! Savour gourmet dishes in up to 14 speciality restaurants per resort, each with different ambiance and all with top chefs that specialise in each cuisine. Taste premium brand liquors at up to 10 bars per resort, including four varietals of Beringer® wine – the oldest and most respected winery in Napa Valley, California.Enjoy more exciting choices on land and sea, from unlimited golf with complimentary greens fees* to scuba diving with top-of-the-line equipment and motorised water sports*.Alternatively, relax with a massage treatment at the serence Red Lane® Spa^. When it comes to luxury accommodations, enjoy far more choices than anywhere else, with up to 26 different room categories per resort. Unwind in unique and creatively designed suites and be pampered by your personal Butler, trained by the Guild of Professional English Butlers.

It’s the Sandals Luxury Included® Difference that makes all

the difference in the world.

J A M A I C A S A I N T L U C I A A N T I G U A B A H A M A S

Sie finden Sandals und Beaches Resorts in der Karibikhalle 3.1. am Jamaika Stand 208. Wir freuen uns auf Ihren Besuch!

Please visit Sandals and Beaches Resorts in the Caribbean Hall 3.1. at the Jamaica booth 208. We are looking forward to meeting you!

*at selected resorts ^at cost 15 YEARS RUNNING

WORLD’S LEADINGALL INCLUSIVE

RESORTS



Each year the World Travel Awards celebratesthe career of an outstanding individual fromwithin the industry – a personality whoseachievements have led the industry.

Winners in the 2010 Awards programmeinclude “World Travel Personality of the Year”for HRH Prince Khalid Al-Faisal bin Abdul AzizAl-Saud and “Middle East Travel Personality ofthe Year” which went to His Highness PrinceBandar Bin Saud Bin Khalid.

“Woman of the Year” award went to RegineSixt of Sixt car rental.

Other renowned faces who have previouslywon this covered award include Sir RichardBranson, chairman, Virgin Atlantic, Gordon“Butch” Stewart, founder and chairman ofSandals, Akbar Al Baker, chief executive ofQatar Airways and Beaches Resorts, senatorthe honourable Allen M. Chastanet, ministerfor tourism & civil aviation for the governmentof St Lucia.

CEO of Johannesburg Tourism Company,Lindiwe Kwele, is a past winner of AfricanTravel Personality of the Year. Under herleadership, she has used tourism a catalystfor social betterment, as well as creating ayear-round calendar of exciting social eventsand activities.

His Royal Highness Prince Khalid Al-Faisal bin Abdul Aziz Al-Saud wonWorld’s Leading Travel Personality atWTA 2010.

On presenting the award, Graham Cooke,president and founder, World Travel Awards,said: “As the World Travel Awards, our goal isto seek out those whose vision, courage anddedication is making tourism a force for goodand a force for change.

“HRH Prince Khalid Al Faisal is the veryembodiment of these qualities and we arehonoured that he is the recipient of the ‘WorldTravel Awards 2010 Personality of the Year’.”

HRH Prince Khalid Al-Faisal bin Abdul Aziz Al-Saud was born in 1940 – the son of His lateMajesty King Faisal of Saudi Arabia. In May2007 Prince Khalid Al-Faisal was appointedGovernor of Makkah Province in westernSaudi Arabia.

His region includes Islam’s holiest city,Makkah, and Saudi Arabia’s principalcommercial hub, main seaport and theKingdom’s second largest city, Jeddah. PrinceKhalid Al-Faisal holds the additional rank ofMinister within the Royal Government ofSaudi Arabia.

The leading personalitiesof travel and tourism willbe keeping a close eye onthe soon-to-be-announcedshortlist for the 2011World Travel Awards TravelPersonality of the Year.

A History of the TravelPersonality of the Year Award

His Royal Highness Prince Bandar Bin Saud Bin Khalidvoted Middle East Personality of the Year



His Royal Highness continues to work hard tocreate the right conditions and atmosphere forartists, poets, writers, composers andmusicians to flourish. In 2008 Prince Khalid Al-Faisal established the Cultural Council ofMakkah which brought together the leadingfigures of the region. Among activitiesannounced by the new council are a ten-yearstrategy for the development of the region andan annual prize for excellence in six categories- including two prizes for culture and the arts.

From 1971-2007 His Royal Highness served asGovernor of Asir Province in south-westernSaudi Arabia – a spectacular region whichinspired Prince Khalid Al-Faisal both as anartist, a poet and a patron of the arts.

Among many projects previously founded byhim are the Literary Club of Abha, the AbhaSinging Festival, the Abha Prize for culturalexcellence, and the Al-Miftaha Visual ArtsVillage situated in the ancient quarter of Abha.

In 1999 Prince Khalid Al-Faisal launchedPainting & Patronage and is the ManagingDirector of the King Faisal Foundation. Prior tohis appointment as Governor of Asir Province,His Royal Highness served as Director Generalof the Presidency of Youth Welfare.

Prince Khalid Al-Faisal has a degree in PoliticalEconomy from the University of Oxford in theUnited Kingdom.

His Highness Prince Bandar Bin SaudBin Khalid voted 2010 Middle EastTravel Personality of the Year

Born and raised in the Kingdom of SaudiArabia, His Highness Prince Bandar travelledto the United States to study law anddiplomacy at Harvard University.

Now, as Chairman of Al Khozama ManagementCompany, he is widely credited for setting anew benchmark for excellence in SaudiArabian hospitality, exemplified by suchdevelopments as the ground-breaking AlFaisaliah Centre in Riyadh.

He is also a founding member, as well asmanaging director, of the world-famous KingFaisal Foundation – the charitable organisationthat aims to ensure the spirit of the late KingFaisal’s altruistic ambitions live on.

His particular interest within the Foundationlies in elevating the standards of hospitalitywithin his Kingdom, as well as ensuring thatthe travel and tourism industry serves as acatalyst for social betterment.

Winner of the 2010 Woman of the YearAward, Regine Sixt, Founder, Sixt

Regine Sixt is one of the most prolificentrepreneurs in travel and tourism. Born andraised in Germany, she began her career at alocal car rental company based in Munich.

With her husband Erich Sixt, the CEO of SixtAG, she has helped build the company into aglobal mega-brand, operating more than230,000 cars across 3,500 locations and 105countries.

Regine Sixt is the driving force behind the Sixtexpansion throughout the world. She directseverything from the corporate identity to theperformance at the airports.

In 2000, she launched her own children’scharity – Drying Little Tears. She supports andfinances various projects for children. Theseinclude a kindergarten in the townships ofCape Town, an orphanage for kids whoseparents died of Aids in Gabon, a school inJerusalem and a children’s hospital in Ecuador.

Among many prestigious awards she hasreceived over the years, she has just beenhonoured as the “Citizen of the World Award”of Israel, becoming the first German and thefirst woman ever to do so.

She also serves at many global advisoryboards including ABTA, ASTA, USTOA, TravelIndustry Club and Skal.

To find out the latest news from World TravelAwards, visit www.worldtravelawards.com.

Regine Sixt wins Woman of the Year 2010Lindiwe Kwele, CEO, Joburg Tourism Company –

a former winner of African Travel Personality of the Year



Home to the African Big Five - leopard, lion,elephant, black and white rhino, and buffalo -as well as numerous other species includingCape mountain zebra, cheetah, spotted hyena,hippos and a unique population of Nilecrocodiles, Shambala is also the home of anabundance of birdlife and wide variety of insectspecies.

Zulu Camp, for example, at Shambala offersguests unforgettable accommodation in themost breathtaking bushveld setting.

A river runs through the camp which has beendesigned along the lines of a traditional Africanvillage. Each of the exclusive sevenhoneycomb-shaped thatched chalets are builtwith natural materials and separated fromeach other by the streams from the nearbyriver.

No wonder the property was recognised by theWorld Travel Awards as the Africa's LeadingLuxury Lodge in 2010.

But there is more.

Each chalet at Zulu Camp is decorated in chicAfro-French Provincial style with double beddressed in the finest linens, French armoireand full length mirror, with direct dial satellitephone.

The luxurious bathroom with bath and showerleads out to the refreshing, private outdoorshower. All chalets have a private deckoverlooking the surrounding bushveld.

Shambala also boasts a very spacious, private,luxury chalet. The well-appointed bedroomfeaturing a dressing room and bathroomleading out to the romantic outdoor shower.The doors from the bathroom open out onto a wooden deck with amazing views of thesurrounding bush.

Main Lodge

The main lodge at Zulu Camp is adjacent tothe chalets. Within this space is housed abistro area and bar, as well as an open lapa ortraditional gathering place.

Thelodge overlooks the banks of the riverwhere guests can also enjoy a quiet moment ofrelaxation in the lounge area or choose fromthe selection of fine wines from the winemenu.

At Shambala, guests are invited to do whateverthey want to do, whenever they wish to; be itan early morning game drive, followed by aleisurely breakfast or a refreshing dip in theplunge pool.

On cooler days guests can enjoy the cosyfireplace in the comfortable lounge setting orspend an evening by the campfire in the openlapa area.

The Shambala Spa is situated in a secludedbushveld clearing near the riverside. Walkingdown a private stone pathway, guests aregreeted in the reception area and nail barfurnished by comfortable armchairs.

A walkway leads through to a large double ortwo single treatment suites. The Spa deckoverlooks the river bed and the sound of thewater adds to the tranquility of the surrounds.The Spa offers all the traditional spatreatments as well as specialised signaturetreatments for relaxing, revitalising andrejuvenating the senses.

Guests to Shambala are treated to uniqueexperiences of the bushveld and close-upgame viewing of the Big Five and numerousother species of wildlife by qualified,experienced game rangers and guides. Theseinclude elephant safaris, bush picnics, asundowner cruise on the Douw Steyn Dam orstar-gazing under the African Skies.

Just two hours’ drive from Johannesburg andcompletely malaria-free, Shambala GameReserve truly lives up to its meaning of“Paradise on Earth.”

Shambala Private GameReserve covers almost12,000 hectares ofnatural landscape in thepicturesque centralregion of the Waterbergmountain range in SouthAfrica's LimpopoProvince. Here BreakingTravel News calls in tosee what separates thismajestic resort from itscompetition.

ShambalaReservecelebratesWTA Victory




A grand hotel with high aspirations

The new five-star Grand Hotel Lienz has set aprecedent for elegance, flair and class inAustria. A gleaming gem in East Tyrol, thisnewly-built property mixes the best ofmodern and traditional, and sits in a glorioussetting, framed by Austria’s tallest mountain,the Grossglockner, and the Lienz Dolomites.

Guests can enjoy the exclusive atmosphere ofthis five-star hotel with gourmet cuisine,medical wellness of the highest level, as wellas a spacious spa oasis for the soul, and notforgetting top service.

The chic and stylish decor, elegant andspacious suites provide the highest ofcomfort with their lavish furnishings andfacilities. The Grand Hotel Lienz offers theperfect starting point for golf, ski, nature andculture.

The carefully-planned interior design of the72 Junior Suites and four individually-designed Royal Suites create a luxuriousoasis of tranquillity for you to relax in. Thisgrandeur is defined in every part of the hotel,and lends a special stately elegance,ambience and flair. All of the suites offerbeautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

The Executive Chef Christian Flaschbergereand Sous-chef Thomas Ebner are both highlydecorated, and renowned for producinggourmet specialties with a Mediterraneanflair including some well-known Austriandishes.

Spacious romantic terraces along the RiverIsel, a sleek fireside parlour and an elegantlounge offer the perfect atmosphere for everytime of day and preference, and the perfectoffer for every food lover!

The extensive wine cellar houses a uniqueselection of wines from around the world andoffers the perfect bottle to accompany ourculinary highlights.

Spa

The spa area is over 1,400m² and offers anindoor and outdoor pool, steam bath, saunas,relaxation room and several specialtreatment rooms. The spacious spa, andMedical Centre offers everything you need tobring body and soul into complete relaxation.

The spa utilizes world leading products suchas Cellcosmet, St.Barths and the hotel’s ownbrand from the region.

Medical Wellness

The Medical Wellness Centre at Grand HotelLienz enables guests to enjoy a maximum ofwellbeing and health improvement whileenjoying a vacation surrounded by luxury.

Under the management of accreditedspecialist Univ. Prof. Dr. Peter Lechleitner,guests will be counselled and cared for so as toexploit their full potential and activate reservesfor the improvement of wellbeing througheffective exercise, nutrition and relaxationprogrammes.

The centre’s strength is in its combination ofthe latest scientific medicine andcomplimentary medicine as well as medicalchecks ups, stress tests, targeted therapiesand individual health advice. Also offered arenumerous professional treatments from theareas of traditional Chinese medicine, beauty,health, nutrition, fitness and “well-aging”.

Medically cared for, you can benefit from thequality and professionalism of the qualifiedpersonnel in an exclusive and atmospherictreatment rooms; enjoy improving your healthat the highest level. Warm colourscorresponding to elements of traditionalChinese medicine and original pieces of

Set in the heart of Austrian Alps, Grandhotel Lienz is leadingthe way in wellness, as well as offering guests sumptuoushospitality in a glorious mountain setting.


artwork lead you away from the sterileambiance of a classic doctors practice andserve as the perfect environment to benefityour wellbeing.

New approaches to wellness

Grandhotel Lienz is presenting a new conceptin health and wellness centres in hotels –SymbioMed, incorporating the symbiosis ofthe different medical branches. Bycomplimenting conventional medicine with thelatest medical advances, the centre is gainingrecognition around the world as vacationersflock here for both basic and extendedphysical checkups at rates generally far belowthose in the US.

Travellers may also seek diagnosis,recuperation, sports examinations, weight lossprogrammes, heart checkups, nutritionprogrammes, homeopathy and traditionalChinese medicine, all at reasonable rates.Further programmes for stopping smoking,skin care, and anti-aging are available. Inaddition to services at the medical centre,guests at the Grandhotel Lienz enjoy a luxurysuite overlooking the River Isel and themountains, extraordinary facilities, including aspa where natural treatments are highlighted,and the many nearby activities.

Diagnosis processes and practices atGrandhotel Lienz are closely allied with thehospital of Lienz, five minutes away. Anyfurther examinations are made with state-of-the-art machines, and there are no longwaiting times. Nor is there a need to stayovernight at the hospital so the patients returnto the hotel. Every guest receives a doctor’sletter with all results and recommendations toensure a smooth and speedy communicationwith a primary physician back home.

Austria’s greenest hotel

Grandhotel Lienz has been built to meet alleco-tourism standards and is the greenesthotel in Austria. Created by Heinz Simonitsch,who was previously managing director of thelegendary Half Moon Club in Jamaica, the firsthotel in the Caribbean to become anenvironmentally friendly hotel, GrandhotelLienz is a paradigm in energy conservation.

The River Isel running past the hotel is a glacialfeed and keeps the rooms cool in summer butthere is an air exchange system in the bar,restaurant, and conference room. Allspecifications of efficient energy were carefullyexamined before the relevant equipment wasordered and no gas or oil are used for energywithin the hotel.

Waterworks generate the electricity. Hot wateris produced through a central plant whichserves most of the town and uses woodchips. In addition, solar water heaters on theroof heat the indoor and outdoor swimmingpool. Further energy is gained through a very

efficient heat exchange from the largestunderground lake in Austria.

The water in East Tyrol, where GrandhotelLienz is located, is chlorine-free and verysafe. The hotel serves still or sparkling tapwater in carafes, reducing the use of plasticbottles.

Simonitsch explained: “Because of myexperience in making Half Moon anenvironmentally friendly hotel, I knew howimportant energy conservation is. The extracosts in the beginning are minimal witheventual savings enormous. Also, our clientswant it and we are proud to let them know weare doing our part to prevent further GlobalWarming.

The hotel contains 76 suites with landscapedterraces, indoor/outdoor swimming pool, lobbybar with open fireplace and a conferencecenter with up-to-the-minute communicationsfacilities. The hotel’s restaurant featuresinternational and health-oriented menus.

www.grandhotel-lienz.com




Thai luxury hospitalitybrand Anantara Hotels,Resorts & Spas isexpanding its portfolioacross Asia, the IndianOcean and the Middle Eastto encompass 50properties within the nextfour years, including ninenew resorts this year.

The group boasts seven resorts in Thailand,two in the Maldives, one in Bali, two recentadditions in the Middle East (12 in total), andenthusiastically anticipates the debut of ninenew resorts in China, Bali, Thailand, UAE andVietnam by the end of 2011. Such growthreflects a 75 percent expansion of the portfolioin existing and new markets.

“We’ve come a long way since our first resortopening in 2001,” said Mr. Peter Carmichael,Senior Vice President, Anantara. “Now in ourtenth anniversary year we will open ninestunning new resorts that offer guests luxuryand tranquility in surroundings that areculturally and environmentally uplifting. As wecontinue to expand, our initial goal of providinga unique and authentic destination experiencefor all our guests will always remain the same.”

Openings in 2011

Anantara Kihavah, Maldives

Anantara Kihavah Villas, Maldives offers theultimate in privacy and luxury. Each of the 78spacious over-water and beach suites are setwithin the lush tropical nature of the islandwith private infinity pools, high ceilings, timberinteriors and terrazzo floors. The resort boastsfive dining options including an underwaterdining experience showcasing the idylliclocation of the dazzling Indian Ocean. Guestscan also enjoy the signature Anantara Spajourney and enjoy a wide range of uniqueMaldivian cultural experiences. The resortlaunched in March 2011.

Anantara Bangkok Sathorn,Thailand

Anantara Bangkok Sathorn, Thailand is theluxury brands first city hotel and opened itsdoors in March 2011. Twin towers of 37 floorsrise prominently amidst Bangkok's city skyline,offering distinctive short and long term staysin the financial district. The hotels living spacecomes in a chic choice of 40 square metrestudio rooms to a 121 square metre twobedroom suites each benefiting from balconiesopening onto city or river views.

Anantara Mui Ne, Vietnam

Anantara Mui Ne Resort & Spa, Vietnam, islocated 200 kilometres northeast of Ho ChiMinh City on the South China Sea coast, in theprovince of Binh Thuan. Anantara Mui NeResort & Spa is named after Mui Ne fishingvillage, in which it occupies an enviable centralshoreline position and is surrounded by thevillage’s famously long and beautiful beaches,stunning mountains and desert-like sanddunes. The resort’s traditional Vietnamesearchitecture showcases 90 rooms, suites andpool villas designed in contemporary harmonywith local culture creating a luxurious newgateway to the distinctive cultural charms ofsoutheastern Vietnam. Anantara is enteringexotic new territory with the opening of its firstVietnamese property in the autumn of 2011.

Anantara to open ninenew resorts in 2011

Overwater Pool Villa by night, Kihavah, Maldives Massage room, Xishuangbanna, China


Deluxe Room living area, Sathorn, Thailand Massage sala, Mui Ne, Vietnam


Anantara Xishuangbanna, China

Anantara Xishuangbanna Resort & Spa, Chinais located in the midst of the HengduanMountains, Xishuangbanna in Yunnan province,an idyllic mountainous setting fringingnorthern Laos. The resort is set on the banksof the Luosuo River and will feature 103 roomswith Dai characteristics, including 80 deluxerooms and 23 pool villas. The region is home tothe indigenous Dai people who are renownedfor their folklore and colourful festivals such asthe water splashing celebration. The resort isset to open in September 2011.

Anantara Bali Uluwatu, Bali

Anantara Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa is set toopen in Bali, the island of a thousand temples,and the island of paradise. The resort willfeature 77 spacious suites and threeinternational dining options in a contemporaryand comfortable setting. Perched high on alimestone cliff on Bali's south-western tip, eachof the suites at Anantara Uluwatu offersunobstructed views of the ocean and theinfamous Balinese sunset. The warmth of localculture and the indigenous natural elementsgive a unique welcome that is always longed byholiday seekers.

Al Sahel Villas, Abu Dhabi

Al Sahel Villas by Anantara, Sir Bani Yas Island,Abu Dhabi will be a unique addition to thedestination of Abu Dhabi. Thirty luxury villas,each with private plunge pools, will be set inthe heart of the Arabian Wildlife Park.Overlooking the rugged landscape and salt-dome hilltops, the property will be surroundedby a lush grass savannah, affording guests’uninterrupted views of grazing sand gazelles,as well as Arabia’s elusive mountain gazelleand Oryx.

Al Yamm Villas, Abu Dhabi

Al Yamm Villas by Anantara, Sir Bani YasIsland, Abu Dhabi will offer tranquil sea facingvillas on the beautiful eastern shores of SirBani Yas Island, surrounded by natural sandybeaches and crystal clear waters. Thespacious villas will also edge a peacefullagoon rich with high mangroves, treatingguests to stunning views of the elegantflamingos that favour this verdant sanctuary.Al Sahael and Al Yamm will welcome guestsas of November 2011.

Anantara Bangkok Riverside,Thailand

Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa,Thailand located on the Chao Phraya River inBangkok offers an idyllic, quiet tropical retreat,yet is conveniently connected to the city’svibrant cosmopolitan and cultural attractionscreating a true destination experience forAnantara guests. The resort includes 413 rooms,including 94 suites, 10 bars and restaurants, fullyequipped meeting and conference rooms, Spaand tropical grounds. Anantara’s first city resortis set to open in November 2011.

Anantara Rasananda, Thailand

Anantara Rasananda Resort & Spa, PhanganIsland, Thailand. The resort is situated on thenorth east coast of Koh Phangan in SouthernThailand and offers guests 64 luxurious villasand suites all with their own private plungepool. Set on a perfect powdery white sandbeach against the backdrop of the tropicalrainforest, Anantara Rasananda Resort & Spawill offer the perfect retreat for absolutebarefoot luxury. Anantara Rasananda willdebut in November 2011.

Visit Anantara Resorts at ITB Berlin, Hall26B/212

Ocean suite with terrace pool, Rasanda, Thailand Dining by Design, Al Sahel Villas, Abu Dhabi



As the oft cited gateway between East andWest, Turkey has been a county of greatsignificance to travellers for centuries. Millionsvisit each year, with Turkey drawing frominnumerable overseas markets to become oneof the fastest growing destinations in the world.

The country is seen as a modern nation with acaptivating blend of antiquity andcontemporary.

While Istanbul relinquished its status asEuropean Capital of Culture – which it held in2010 – it remains one of the most attractivetourist destinations in the MENA region, notleast because of its relative affordability toEuropean visitors.

Countless excuses are on offer for a visit.Turkey was the site of the first humansettlement; the seat of the Byzantine, Romanand Ottoman Empires; the birthplace of Homerand the last home of the Virgin Mary, just toname a few.

The stable, secular democracy operating in thecountry also casts Turkey into stark relief whencompared to its neighbours in early 2011, whilea brief spat with Israel in 2010 also did little todull visitor interest.

Today Turkey, with its spectacular coastline,majestic mountains, cosmopolitan cities andquaint villages is one of the world’s mostfascinating destinations.

Here we examine recent developments inTurkey, and assess what the future holds.

Accommodation in Turkey

Visitors to Turkey are spoilt for choice when itcomes to accommodation.

Hotel Les Ottomans, for example, isconsidered the “World's Leading All SuiteHotel & Spa by the World Travel Awards”.

The mansion was converted to one of themost luxurious and exclusive hotels in Turkeyby the refined taste of its proprietress,remaining faithful to its original design on theoutside.

It was restructured inside as a journey fromits origins in the past to the present andpresented as a mixture of love and lavishbeauty which mankind constantly seek for. Areal treat for visitors to Istanbul.

Turkey tourism welcomes 2011 at ITB Berlin

Home to the vibrantcultural capital of Istanbul,Turkey is emerging as thedestination of choice ofdiscerning Europeantravellers. European Unionmembership remains arealistic, if distant,prospect, ensuring thecountry will grow further inthe coming years.

Breaking Travel News looksat the secrets of itssuccess.



Over on the coast of Antalya, Mardan Palaceopened in 2009 and has already staked itsclaim to be the best hotel in the county.

Some 546 rooms - including two Royal Suiteswith private pools – are situated amidarchitecture created by internationallyacclaimed designers to reflect the distinctivelandmarks of Istanbul. The main Hotelresembles the Dolmabahce Palace, while thebridges across the main pool are based onoriginal designs of the Da Vinci Bridge.

The “World's Leading Design Hotel” – theAdam & Eve Hotel – is also situated in Belek,Antalya, providing a luxurious getaway fordiscerning travellers.

For the all inclusive traveller, Rixos Hotelsmaintains a series of top qualities across thecountry, with the Rixos Premium Belek pickingup the title of Mediterranean's Leading Hotel atthe World Travel Awards last year.

For other top destinations in Turkey visit theMinistry of Tourism in Hall 3.2/201.

Turkish Airlines

Outside of its world class hotels, Turkey alsomaintains another key advantage over regionalrivals - national flag-carrier Turkish Airlines.

Recognised by tourism insiders as one of thestrongest airlines in the world, the carrier haslaunched new flights to Accra, Bologna, Dar esSalaam, Sochi - home of the 2014 WinterOlympics – and Washington in the last yearalone, building on its already extensive routenetwork.

A new codeshare agreement with US Airwayswill also boost the carrier in 2011, whilesponsorship deals with Premier Leaguefootball club Manchester United FC and FCBarcelona – the first of its kind - will raise itsinternational profile.

Presently flying to over 130 internationaldestinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, and theAmericas, as well as 41 domestic destinations,

Turkish Airlines offers one of the mostcomprehensive networks of any majorinternational carrier.

More information at Hall 3.2/201.

European Membership

In a wider sense, however, challenges remainfor Turkey as an international touristdestination.

While the European Union may offer baubles –such as the title of European Capital of Culturefor Istanbul in 2010 – it has been markedlymore reticent in offering Turkey access to thegreatest prize of all – membership.

Although negotiations have been ongoing for adecade or more – indeed Turkey was afounding member of the European EconomicCommunity in 1959 and has since movedcloser through the Ankara Agreement –disagreements over the future of Cyprus, thehistory of Armenia, political transparency, andthe environment have all delayed accession.

However, the potential benefits for the tourismindustry in the country are huge.

European visitors represent the biggest sectorfor Turkey, and their activities offer hugepotential to support economic growth andemployment in what is still a relativelydeveloping country. There is also theadvantage of stronger social ties between theEU and neighbouring Turkey, with ascensionoffering a very real opportunity to build asocial, cultural and economic bridge betweenthe Christian West and Muslim East.

Despite this, the process is likely to be longand arduous.

While there is a gathering consensus in favourof Turkey’s eventual membership of theEuropean Union – with France and Germanynotably bucking the trend - EuropeanCommission president José Manuel Barrosohas stated the accession process could take atleast until 2021 – at the earliest.

City.Mobi

With the country going from strength tostrength, City.Mobi has recently launchedIstanbul.Mobi. This definitive guide providesvisitors will all they need to know about thisincredible destination, from entertainmentinfo to booking hotels and airport transfers.



World Travel Awards

Whatever the outcome of the ongoingnegotiations with Brussels, Turkey is alreadyfêted among members of the travel andtourism community, having being selected ashost of the World Travel Awards (WTA)European Gala Ceremony later this year.

Taking place on September 9th, the city ofAntalya – the tourism capital of Turkey – willhost the elite of the world’s travel industry, allof whom will be eager to discover who willwalk away with the coveted prizes.

For more information on the most prestigious prizes in the industry visitworldtravelawards.com



Welcome to the most luxurious resort in the Mediterranean where the finest Turkish Hospitality is delivered withpassion and commitment. The Mardan Palace Antalya marks a long return to the days of experiential

luxury, paying homage to the elegance of an enchanting past. An awe inspiring worldwhere the royal splendor of illustrious empires meets today’s modern luxuries.

A place recreating the extraordinary palatial architecture of ancient Ottoman days combinedwith a great passion for service and quality are the prime ingredients to tailor-make oriental fairytales.

World’s Leading Luxury Hotel World’s Leading Royal SuiteWorld’s Leading Hotel Spa


Mardan Palace, the new grand palatial splendour for the modern luxury traveller in Antalya on the Turkish Riviera.Home to the destination’s first real sumptuous resort located on 180.000m² highlighting 560 elegantly decorated

rooms & suites, 25 different restaurant/bar concepts brought from around the world, various meeting andconference facilities, the gigantic 7.500m² spa and one of the biggest swimming pools of the world

complementing various recreational facilities. Additionally 4 international aquariums,a traditional amphitheatre, tremendous water trick fountains and a unique

swim reef are just some special amenities to be featured.

The highest expectations of today’s international luxury traveler will be exceeded.

A luxury Destination is Born again.

Kundu Köyü Oteller Mevkii, Lara 07110, Antalya • Tel: +90(242) 310 4100 • Fax: +90(242) 310 4200

www.mardanpalace.com



As the most mature tourist destination in theworld it is no surprise to discover Europe haslagged behind global rivals as it continues torecover from the slowdown in trade which hasdominated the past two years.

Asia, and in particular China, has dominatedthe news agenda for the past year, in a trendwhich looks set to continue over the comingdecade. But Europe has quietly beenrebuilding, with visitors numbers up three percent to 471 million in 2010 according to theUnited Nations World Tourism Organisation(UNTWO).

This comes despite disruption caused by theeruption of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano earlylast year, snow chaos in the run up to thefestive season and the continued economicuncertainty affecting the euro zone.

Of particular note has been the favourableexchange rates recorded in many Europeandestinations, with arrivals from Russia andJapan growing strongly throughout the year asa result.

“The recovery in international tourism is goodnews, especially for those developing countriesthat rely on the sector for much-neededrevenue and jobs,” said UNWTO secretary-general, Taleb Rifai.

“The challenge now will be to consolidate thisgrowth over the coming years amid a stilluncertain global economic environment”.

Usual Suspects

In many respects the usual suspects continueto dominate the European tourism sector, withsix of the world's top ten tourism destinationsby arrivals and seven by receipts located there.

France, Spain, Italy, UK, Turkey and Germanywere all among the top destinations in terms ofvisitor numbers last year, while Austria joinsthe elite when measured by tourism receipts.

However, emerging destinations – includingBaltic states Latvia and Estonia – haverecorded double digit growth in visitornumbers last year, according to the EuropeanTravel Commission (ETC).

With these destinations in the news City.Mobihas recently launched Tallinn.City.Mobi. Thisdefinitive guide provides all you need to knowabout this incredible destination, fromentertainment info to booking hotels andairport transfers.

City.Mobi offers the most comprehensivemobile travel guides available, with over 800cities in 200 countries listed. Each is

developed by the City.Mobi team to combineinto a single global travel directory.


“We begin 2011 looking back at astrengthening recovery,” explained EuropeanTravel Commission president Petra Hedorfer.

“With a full year of data now available for 2010we observe visitor growth for the vast majorityof destinations.

“However, we remain in the recovery processwith visitor levels still below our 2008 peak.”

Turkey has been another success story, withvisitor numbers rocketing as the countrycomes of age as a tourism destination. To findthe secret of Turkey’s success, head over tothe stand in Hall 3.2/201.

Istanbul – recognised by the World TravelAwards as “Europe's Leading Destination” –was also celebrating its roll as EuropeanCapital of Culture during 2010.

Europe remains attractive to visitors from around the world

European travel industry back onsong despite setbacksEurope has been slower than many regions to recover from the global downturn, buta robust market and a developed offering have seen the continent regain momentumin 2011. Here Breaking Travel News takes a look at what the future might hold.



Aviation

Aviation has also been quick to consolidatemeagre gains made in 2009.

The International Air Transport Association(IATA) reveals European carriers saw year-on-year passenger demand increase 5.1 per centin 2010 - double the capacity increase of 2.6per cent.

International Airlines Group – created by themerger of British Airways and Iberia of Spain –was the story of the year, with initial resultssuggesting a positive start for the newEuropean super-carrier.

Turkish Airlines made headlines, pulling off anaudacious sponsorship deal with ManchesterUnited FC and walking away with the covetedWorld Travel Award for Europe's Leading AirlineBusiness Class in late 2010.

KLM, however, continued to dominate thescene. Martinair was incorporated into thecarrier is it continued to expand, withpassengers numbers and cargo loads alsoincreasing. More information can be found inHall 9/102.

Challenges Ahead

While the general narrative has been one ofrecovery, a number of significant challengersare still on the horizon for the Europeantourism sector.

Not least is a tendency towards introducing orincreasing taxation on travel as a means ofbalancing public accounts among Europeangovernments over the past 12 months.

In Great Britain for example significantincreases to Air Passenger Duty have hitaviation at a time when a recovery should betop of the agenda.

A government policy ruling out theconstruction of further runways in the south-east of the country has proved a furtherobstacle at Heathrow continues to creak underexcessive demand.

“While we fully understand the need for fiscalconsolidation, UNWTO will continue to alertgovernments to the fact that these taxesseriously affect tourism’s proven capacity tostimulate job creation and economic growth,impacting negatively on their own economiesand on the development possibilities ofemerging economies,” added Rifai.

The serious financial crisis which hascontinued to affect the peripheral countries ofthe European Union - such as Greece, Portugal,Spain and Ireland – are also a matter forconcern.

Inter-European travel comprises a major partof arrivals for destinations on the continent,and with sceptical consumers sitting on theirwallets any further deterioration in theeconomic picture could hit business hard.

Brighter 2011

That said, operators are reporting strongincreases in booking numbers for 2011, with TUITravel – Europe's Leading Tour Operator,according to World Travel Awards – seeingrobust trading head of the key summer season.

Cruise operators across Europe are also seeingholidaymakers return, with Copenhagen inDenmark emerging as the destination of choicefor many.

Looking forward, the economic recovery is morefirmly entrenched and there are some positivesigns going forward.

On the positive side, solid profits have leftcorporations with significant cash whichtypically indicates a coming boost in hiring andinvestment. Meanwhile, future indices are solidand emerging market economies remain strong.

However, the prospects for the global economyare clouded with some uncertainty by thecontinuing European sovereign debt crisis and atenuous consumer outlook.

Notwithstanding these risks, the ETC baselineforecast scenario anticipates overnight visitorgrowth to Europe of a further 3 percent in 2011and 4 percent in 2012.

City.Mobi

For the latest news and information on theEuropean tourism sector head over to City.Mobion your mobile to check out the latestheadlines.

Beach holidays in Spain continue to be popular with European travellers



It’s been a couple oftough years for Europeanaviation, as the region’slegacy carriers continueto shrug off therecessionary flu.

But one of the few legacy carriers to buck theEuropean malaise has been Turkish Airlines.Riding on the back of Turkey’s growingpopularity as a tourism destination, thenational carrier has consistently chalked uprising profits and market share despite a toughmarket elsewhere.

The airline has played a pivotal role inIstanbul’s emergence as a business andcultural hub. This was reflected at the 2010World Travel Awards when the national carrierwas voted “Europe’s Leading Airline BusinessClass”, following a year in which it grew marketshare and continued to upgrade its fleetdespite a backdrop of one of the harshestdownturns in aviation history.

New European frontiers

On 27 March Turkish Airlines starts operatingits first flight to Valencia, Spain. The flights willtake place on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday andSunday every week.

Turkish Airlines also will start the Istanbul-Malaga (Spain) route three times a week onWednesday, Friday and Sunday and the firstflight will be operated on 27 April 2011. Withthe start of flights to Valencia and Malaga,Turkish Airlines passengers will have theopportunity to travel directly to fourdestinations in Spain after its current servicesto Barcelona and Madrid.

The airline will continue to expand its networkwith the launch of Istanbul-Toulouse (France)flights. The flights are set to begin on 16 Apriland will take place three times a week onMonday, Wednesday and Saturday. The servicesto Toulouse will be increased to four times aweek by July 3. Toulouse is the fourth flightdestination in France after Lyon, Nice and Paris.

With the addition of its new services, TurkishAirlines will operate flights to 175 destinationsworldwide.

Commercial success

Turkish Airlines has rapidly expanded its U.S.presence in recent years. This month it began itsfirst non-stop flights to the West Coast, with thefour flights per week from Los Angeles’ LAXAirport to Atatürk Airport in Istanbul.

The airline has also teamed up with legendarybasketball star Kobe Bryant to front its newcommercial campaign. The commercial is nowrunning in the U.S., the Far East, and will beaired in more than 80 countries worldwide later.

Kobe Bryant was recently named TurkishAirlines’ global brand ambassador and willappear in advertisements as the face of thecompany over the next two years.

The narrative focuses on Kobe’s interactionwith Turkish Airlines’ famed “Flying Chef”

Tennis star Caroline Wozniacki

Turkish Airlines – Europe’s



aboard a long-haul flight. In a competitiveexchange, Kobe and the chef dare each otherto switch roles – Kobe as chef and chef asbasketball player. The result is a light-heartedcompetition in which both realize the skillrequired of each other’s professions.

The commercial is one component of a largercampaign which will include billboards, printand online components.

Kobe Bryant has been named Most ValuablePlayer of the NBA finals for the past two years,and has won five NBA championships in hiscareer. He has twice been the scoringchampion of the NBA and was part of the goldmedal winning USA Basketball Men’s NationalTeam at the 2008 Olympics. Bryant rankednumber fourteen on Forbes Magazine’s“Celebrity 100,” which lists the world’s richestand most powerful celebrities.

Famous sporting face

Kobe Bryant follows another sportingsuperstar who has recently joined the TurkishAirlines stable. World number one tennisplayer, Caroline Wozniacki was chosen as thenew face of Turkish Airlines Business Class.

The Danish tennis star of Polish origin isrepresenting Turkish Airlines on commercials

and public relations activities for the next threeyears.

The 20-year-old also holds the title of bestyoung player in world tennis ranking, and wasranked by the International Tennis Federationas the world champion. Expected to receivethe grand slam award in 2011, she has won 12championship so far. Wozniacki was alsonamed as the best tennis player in 2008 byWomen’s Tennis Association (WTA).

Wozniacki is introducing Turkish Airlines' newBusiness Class. TV commercials are beingbroadcast across Europe.

Turkish Airlines adds new “ComfortClass”

Last year Turkish Airlines added a new class onits flights, in addition to the economy andbusiness offerings, and opening doors for newprivileges in the sky.

Passengers are now able to experiencecomfort in “Comfort Class” at inexpensiverates. The new class is situated between theEconomy Class and Business Class. Itspurpose is to combine the convenience ofBusiness Class with the reasonable purchasingrates of Economy Class.

Turkish Airlines introduced the “ComfortClass” on trunk routes to Beijing, Shanghai,Narita, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Sao Paulo andToronto on its the new B777 aircraft. And as the airline’s new B777s join the fleetthe Comfort Class is being rolled out on theflights to New York, Chicago, Washington D.C.and Los Angeles as well.

One of the privileges of Comfort Class is thatthe knee space and sitting space are kept at amaximum range. The seat pitch measures in at116cm and seat width at 49cm.

Having their own individual display screenswith the 10.6“ in-arm screens embedded oneach seats the passengers can watch as manyfilms, serials, documentaries and cartoons asthey wish while they can access the entirevisual archives instantly. Passengers who wantto rest their legs will have the apparatus of legrest stowed beneath the seas.

These newly designed seats let passengersaccess their files by simply using theirpersonal USB devices or iPods.

To find out more about Turkish Airlines at ITBvisit Hall 3.2/201. Also visit www.thy.com

Turkish Airlines ambassador Kobe Bryant Turkish Airlines - Europe's Leading Airline

new aviation superstar




World Travel AwardsEurope Gala Ceremony 2 011Cornelia Diamond Golf Resort & Spa, Antalya, Turkey2 September 2011





[email protected]


Global Media Partner Media Partners Event Sponsor



Financial Times

“The travel industry’s most high-profile award ceremony” The Independent




Turkey taps into the all-inclusive luxury market

Travel agents and hoteliers first began toreport the rise in demand for all-inclusives in2008 and the trend has continued into 2011.Offering the ability to control a budget andknow from the outset of a trip all of itsexpenses has become increasingly appealingto many travellers.

A recent study by market research firm Mintelrevealed UK travellers feel positive abouttaking an all-inclusive break. Sales have grownby 32 per cent over the past five years and all-inclusives now account for 20-25 per cent ofall package holidays sold in the UK.

Glenn McCool, Hayes & Jarvis’s product andcontracts manager for the Indian Ocean,commented: “We’ve seen a big increase indemand for all-inclusive accommodation in theIndian Ocean over the past year, leaving B&Bresorts in the Maldives that chargehandsomely for other meals struggling tocompete.”

All inclusive as a concept – which is thought tohave originated in Jamaica in 1978 - has sinceflourished in the region, with well known hotelgroups such as Sandals Hotels & Resortsproviding rich holiday experiences for theirguests who can enjoy activities, meals andalcohol on tap.

Adding to this has been the recent rise ofexperiential travel whereby travellersincreasingly demand a more active holidayrather than just lying on the beach. This is amarket all-inclusive operators have been ableto tap into.

Away from the Beach

But all-inclusive holidays are no longerconfined to beach resorts.

Responding to customer demand, the all-inclusive sector has diversified. Luxurytravellers, budget travellers, families, grouptravellers and honeymooners can all enjoy all-inclusive experiences right across the globe –even in Antarctica.

A number of high end resorts now offer gueststhe opportunity to stay on a premium all-inclusive basis, meaning they are able to enjoythe luxury of a five star holiday, without havingto compromise on service or standards, but allat a set rate.

The Cornelia Diamond Golf Resort & Spa,located in Antalya in Belek, is one suchproperty, providing activities to ensure guestshave a ‘fascinating holiday experience’ on anoptional all-inclusive basis.

The property, which has been named ‘Europe’sLeading Spa Resort’, ‘Europe’s Leading GolfResort’, ‘Turkey’s Leading Golf Resort’, and‘Europe’s Leading Luxury Resort’ by the WorldTravel Awards, boasts original architecturerestored ‘retro’ style by architect TuncarCavdara.

Services guests can enjoy include a sportscentre and the recently renovated CrassulaECO Spa, which offers a range of naturalbeauty therapies, holistic therapies, andorganic massage treatments.

The property also has a golf club and NickFaldo designed golfing range. Business

travellers can utilise the conference centre.The all-inclusive rates can be integratedaccording to the guest’s needs.

For example, with a dedicated honeymoonservice, newly weds can enjoy a specialhoneymoon all-inclusive package withadditional treats such as champagne, flowersin their room and a heart shaped cake. Tomaximize guest experience, rooms areconstantly undergoing upgrades, and havemost recently been fitted with new state of theart LCD televisions, wallpaper andshowercabins.

In other news, this year’s International GolfTravel Market is being held in Belek for the firsttime and will be hosted at the Cornelia.Described by travellers on Tripadvisor as‘fantastic’ and ‘a real Turkish delight’, this hotelis doing something right.

Rixos Hotels

Another hotel group in Turkey that is appealingto guests looking for an all-inclusiveexperience with a difference is Rixos Hotels,who aim to respond to guests desires throughtheir ‘Art of the Holiday’ concept.

Rixos is now bringing its premium all-inclusiveoffering to Turkey’s capital city, Istanbul, withthe planned openings of the Elysium SuitesTaksim and Residences Bomonty.

The hotel group, which was recently named‘Mediterranean's Leading Hotel’, have signed a20 year operating agreement for threehistorical buildings, previously known as theRoyal hotel, owned by Orjin Grup.

In the aftermath of the financialcrisis, the all-inclusive sector hasflourished, evolved and expandedas travellers from all over the worldreap the benefits of this costefficient holiday segment.

Rixos has led the way in Turkish all-inclusive holidays



The complex – which was built in 1876 and isknown as one of the oldest hotels in Istanbul -comprises three blocks with a total of 140rooms. It is set in an area of 1,500sqm andconsists of approximately 12,000sqm indoorspace.

However, the number of rooms is expected toincrease after the architectural design work iscompleted. Rixos plan to re-open the hotel bythe end of 2011.

Rixos Hotels Vice President, Başak Erel,commented: “As one of the first hotels inIstanbul, Royal Hotel has a unique and ahistorical background.

“We are very happy as Rixos Hotels, that ourfirst hotel project in Istanbul is being launchedin such a historical setting. This hotel project isan extension to the Rixos Elysium SuitesTaksim and Rixos Residences Bomonty,already operating in Istanbul.”

City.Mobi

With the Istanbul from strength to strength,City.Mobi has recently launched Istanbul.mobi– this definitive guide provides all you need toknow about the mysterious Middle East, fromentertainment info to booking hotels andairport transfers.



Visit Rixos Hotels at ITB Berlin in Hall 3.2,stand 201

Visit Cornelia Hotels at ITB Berlin in Hall 3.1stand 122


Cornelia Diamond Golf Resort & Spa has been recognised by WTA as the leading golf resort in Europe

All-inclusive holidays in Turkey have seen a spike in interest over the past three years


Having won hosting rights tothe 2018 World Cup, Russia isinvesting billions to bring itsinfrastructure up to Fifastandards. However thepossible legacy gains areunlimited, as BTN finds out.

Eastern Europe has never hosted the WorldCup, but the decision by the FIFA ExecutiveCommittee to award hosting rights to Russiafor the 2018 tournament has been heralded asthe region’s greatest accomplishment indecades.

Russia represents an exciting new horizon forFifa – a football “white spot” with millions ofnew hearts and minds, and the potential tocreate a great legacy after the World Cup,including great new stadiums.

Russia’s economy is also large and growing,and its football market is developing rapidly.Hosting the 2018 World Cup marks not only anew football territory but also an untappedtourism destination.

For years, the need to obtain a visa, lack ofaffordable and quality hotels, and poortransport infrastructure has hindered Russia’sinbound tourism market.

However with the 2018 World Cup now in thebag, Russia has a once-in-a-generationopportunity and benchmark to create a lastinglegacy from the World Cup.

For starters, president Dmitry Medvedev haspromised to scrap visas for holders of WorldCup tickets, which could also pave the way forsmoothing entry restrictions for internationalvisitors in the future.

Russia’s tourism ministry said it wouldpromote Intourist, the country’s biggest touroperator acquired by Thomas Cook in a $45mdeal in December, as exclusive manager of theevent.

As part of its bid strategy, the Russiangovernment also promised that football fanswould be able to travel for free between hostcities – the distance between the westernmost host (Kaliningrad) and the most eastern(Yekaterinburg) is 2,500 kilometres.

This makes it essential that Russia’sdilapidated transport infrastructure, whichremains largely unchanged from the Sovietera, is upgraded.

Hotels too need upgrading and building. Manyexisting properties are outdated and overpriced.So as well as renovating, new hotels must bebuilt to address the bed shortage.

The language barrier – and different alphabet– will prove a challenge for fans so English-

based mobile guides such as city.mobi will beessential.

During the South Africa World Cup, city.mobiprovided detailed information aboutaccommodation, attractions, dining, cityguides, and transport information tailored forusers on the go, and includes host citiesDurban (durban.city.mobi), Port Elizabeth(portelizabeth.city.mobi), Bloemfontein(bloemfontein.mobi), Johannesburg(joburg.city.mobi), Pretoria (pretoria.mobi),Nelspruit (http://nelspruit.city.mobi), Polokwane (polokwane.city.mobi), andRustenburg (rustenburg.city.mobi).

At Fifa 2018, city.mobi will be providing similarservices for key host cities Moscow(moscow.mobi), St Peterburg(stpetersburg.mobi) and Novgorad(novgorad.mobi).

Infrastructure

The World Cup will be played in 16 stadiums in13 cities – all these will need to be eitherrenovated or built from new. This will cost $3.8billion, according to an official forecast.

Some estimates suggest that at least twicethat amount could be needed to upgrade mostairports, develop high-speed rail services andbuild roads and hotels.


Catherine Palace near St Petersburg

Russia rises for its greatest sporting challenge


Olympic experience

Russia’s progress in preparation for the 2014Winter Olympics in Sochi will not have goneunnoticed by the Fifa Exco.

Since it was awarded the games in 2007,Russia has made impressive infrastructureimprovements as it takes on what has beendubbed “the most expensive and challengingproject in its history”.

Telman Ismailov, chairman of Russia’sbiggest property developer AST, is buildingalmost 10 percent of the hotel space neededfor the Olympics in Sochi.

Plans include Russia’s largest hotel complex.The project will cost Ismailov’s AST Groupmore than $1 billion. The 24.6 hectareSodruzhestvo complex will have 5,500rooms. The group will also build a 150-roomhotel in the Imeretinskaya valley near Sochion a 0.98 hectare site.

Ismailov is also the owner of Turkey’s MardanPalace, voted “World’s Leading Luxury Hotel”at the 2010 World Travel Awards, Europe’smost expensive resort, costing $1.65 billion tobuild.

Other Russian oligarchs have been tapped bythe government to fund the Olympics, andVladimir Putin has said they should also helpfoot the bill for the World Cup. Roman Abramovich, the billionaire metalstycoon and owner of Chelsea football club,said he was ready to become a partner to theauthorities in preparing for the World Cup.

To implement all the projects, thegovernment will also need to invest vastamounts of its money and effort. As with the2014 Winter Olympics, full state guaranteeswill be given to the World Cup project.

Like South Africa, Russia’s eventual financialsuccess – or failure – in organising andhosting the tournament might be evidentonly years after it is over.

Sport Tourism

The World Cup 2018 prize for Russia isexpected to deliver a windfall in travel andtourism receipts. Sport Tourism is the travel industry’s fastest growing sector,contributing an astonishing 14 percent ofoverall travel and tourism receipts in 2010,according to WSDE Sport Tourism Expo, theonly global exhibition and business forumdedicated to showcasing the full spectrum ofSport Tourism related products and services.

At a time when some traditional tourismtrends are in decline, Sport Tourismcontinues to flourish and is set to growexponentially in the next decade.

Yet the complex mechanics of Sport Tourismhave not yet been fully understood orrealised. The annual WSDE Sport TourismExpo aims to present the future businessdeals and source new contacts and markets,but also to gain invaluable insights from theadvanced knowledge of market leaders.

WSDE Sport Tourism Expo will take place inBangkok, capital city and business hub ofThailand from 27-29 September 2011.

To find out more about WSDE SportTourism Expo visit sporttourismexpo.com



Miss World 2009 Ksenia Sukhinova fromRussia uses city.mobi to find everythingfrom hotels to restaurants

Moscow will play host to the final of World Cup 2018




World Travel AwardsAfrica & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2 011Royal Savoy, Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt16 September 2011





[email protected]


Global Media Partner Event Sponsor



Financial Times





The Savoy Hotel and Resorts Group International is widely represented in Egypt’sfamous holiday destination, Sharm El Sheikh. A true paradise for those who love natureand water sports, there are no less than four different choices of accommodation tosuit the varying needs of guests from the vibrant and fun Sierra Hotel to the exclusiveSavoy Villas, and a further two hotels currently under construction.

Savoy Sharm El Sheikh brings a new

The Savoy Sharm El Sheikh is just a short drivefrom Sharm El Sheikh International Airportand Na’ama Bay. The first of the hotels to bebuilt, it is a perfect retreat for those seeking toexplore the majestic deserts of the SouthSinai, the wonders of the Red Sea or those whosimply want to kick back, relax and enjoy theall year round sunny climate.

Truly an amazing location and excitingdestination, the Savoy Sharm El Sheikh hoteltailors to every individual taste, and is spreadover 200,000 sq m2 of serene surroundings.Laying at the heart of the spectacular WhiteKnight Beach, it is located within the world-famous national park of Ras Mohammed,South Sinai, Egypt.

Stunning in architectural design, the hotelitself boasts impeccable style. From its marblefloors to high ceilings, decadent interiorsthrough to simplistic colour themes, the SavoySharm El Sheikh is all about sophistication.Combining luxury in a superb location with anair of relaxation and ‘at-home’ experience, thehotel is unrivalled in the services it provides.With a grand total of 406 superiorly designedrooms, ranging from single, double and triplerooms to the lavish Royal Suite, your everyneed is catered for.

Superbly furnished with the cool elegance ofmarble and wood, all 406 of the Savoy SharmEl Sheikh Hotel rooms promote a simplistic yet

inviting feel that encapsulates the Savoy’ssumptuous signature look. All rooms comewith a view (garden, pool or sea).

There are nine exclusive Savoy Villas, and eachone is decorated to a different theme. Forthose who wish for all the comforts of a fineprivate home, coupled with the benefits ofimpeccable Savoy service, the Savoy Villas arean excellent option in Sharm El Sheikh

Be an exclusive guest at one of the award-winning Royal Savoy properties which existwithin the grounds of the prestigious SavoySharm El Sheikh. Offering outstanding views,impeccable service and the added advantagesof a five-star hotel, the Royal Savoy Villas caterfor each and every individual taste.

Inspired by Africa, each villa carries its ownunique character and design. A heavenlydestination offering an exclusive experience

Meetings

The perfect venue for conferences, events andincentives, the Savoy Sharm El Sheikh hasideal facilities to host successful corporatefunctions, conventions, drinks parties or galadinners. A variety of rooms complete withstate-of-the-art equipment are available onrequest and our specialized banquet team ison hand to help choose ideal locations

Wining & Dining

An array of bars and lounges and restaurantssituated around the grounds of the SavoySharm El Sheikh offer guests an exquisiteculinary experience or alternatively the optionto relax and enjoy a drink from our carefullyselected beverage menus featuring importsfrom around the world.

The Royal Savoy, the Savoy’s exclusiveBoutique hotel that sits very comfortably atnumber 1 on TripAdvisor, invites its VIP gueststo enjoy individual attention and the exclusiveprivileges of ultimate luxury.

The Royal Savoy Lounge is designed forrelaxing, light dining, socializing orentertaining. It is where guests can enjoy avariety of food and beverages all-day long aswell as continental breakfast, afternoon tea orcocktails and canapés in the evening.

Situated within idyllic grounds, embraced bylush tropical foliage and diamond waterfalls,The Royal Savoy offers unparalleled service,guaranteed privacy and peace. Designed tocater for those who prefer to stay in a moreintimate and secluded location, this select clubwing enjoys a private lounge and an outdoorsun terrace with two magnificent, adjoiningswimming pools. An exclusive beach area,reserved solely for the Royal Savoy clientele,overlooks the spectacular sands of WhiteKnight Beach.



From the generous comfort of a standard roomto the spacious opulence of the suites all theaccommodation at the Royal Savoy offerssophistication and the height of luxury.Aesthetically and elegantly furnished withattention to the finest detail, the mark of everyroom is the exceptional combination of styleand function. Marbled bathrooms, four-posterbeds and expansive balconies are just a few ofthe indulgences awaiting Royal Savoy guests.Breathtaking views of the picturesque hotelgardens or the majestic Red Sea and TiranIsland are a standard feature of every room.

Sixteen newly-opened honeymoon suites havebeen designed to provide a unique, romanticambience, enhanced by indirect, discreetlighting from the ceiling. Near the bed is a two-person Jacuzzi. The large marble bathroomincludes a bidet, two hand-basins, a bigbathroom mirror and a connecting door to thebedroom. International, European and local TVprogrammes are available on plasma screenTV sets. The honeymoon suites include all theamenities of the Royal Savoy rooms.

A high standard of service and consideration ofindividual needs, gives The Royal Savoy itsunique edge. Professional and efficient ServiceStaff treat every wish, however small, as apriority. Clients can expect private limousinepick-up and a personally assigned butlerservice for the duration of their stay.

Royal Savoy guests are welcome to entertainbusiness associates and friends in the privatelounge area where they can enjoy a variety ofcomplimentary food and drink around theclock. A comprehensive list of importedbeverages perfectly complements animpressive menu, offering authenticallycooked, international cuisine with the exclusivechoice of in-room dining. In addition, anextensive array of superb dining locations isset within the grounds of The Savoy.

With easy access to major tourist destinationssuch as St. Katharine’s Monastery and MountSinai, The Royal Savoy is the perfect base forthose keen to explore South Sinai’s majesticdeserts. Alternatively, guests can takeadvantage of this excellent opportunity todiscover the underwater wonders of the RedSea or simply to unwind and relax in theidyllic, all year round, Sinai summer.

Bordered by swaying palm trees and relaxingsunloungers, it adds to the sociable appeal,enjoyment and fun that the Sierra Sharm ElSheikh Hotel promotes.

There are lots of great entertainment andsports activities to hand.

Priding itself on high standards, the SierraSharm El Sheikh offers fabulous food anddrink with excellent all-round service.

The Sierra Sharm El Sheikh hotel is theperfect destination for those who want toexplore the Red Sea in a more vibrantatmosphere

Superb shopping at Soho Square

In between the elegant Savoy and VibrantSierra is Sharm entertainment hub, SohoSquare, the Red Sea’s pedestrianised squaremile of restaurants and bars, shopping andclubs is conveniently situated for all SavoyGroup guests. Every member of the family iscatered for at Soho Square.

Restaurants offer cuisine from all over theworld, they range from French fine cuisine toIndian, Chinese, Thai, Midddle East andInternational. You’ll find everything you needto make your beach holiday Funtastic, as wellas plenty of arts, crafts, jewellery andaccessories to pack for the journey home in

the newly constructed Hakuna Matata marketstyle shopping area.

Other shops offer all the glorious colour andvariety of the Egyptian souk, with carpets,aromatic oils, traditional jewellery and shishawater pipes

Watch out for Hotels coming soon are thefamily orientated Sky hotel and the hip Sohohotel.

To find out more about The Savoy Sharm ElSheikh at ITB Berlin visit Hall 23.A/101

www.savoy-sharm.com.

w level of luxury








The primary focus of NamibiaWildlife Resorts is tourismdevelopment in the primeprotected areas of Namibia, its national parks, whilstmeeting the principals ofenvironmental sustainability.

This crucial strategic position comes withgreat environmental responsibilities. The teamat NWR have successfully turned round agovernment-owned tourism company that washeavily laden in debt; its service andinfrastructure had deteriorated so much that it was hindering the tourism potential of thisgreat nation.

Now NWR is a profitable, sustainable business,boasting some of the finest camps not just inNamibia but throughout the world. Thecompany was also voted “Namibia’s LeadingTourism Brand” at 2010 World Travel Awards.

An eye for the future

NWR has made great strides over the past twoyears in implementing a turnaround strategy,aimed at aligning NWR facilities with themarket demand of the increasinglyenvironmentally discerning visitor. But NWRsees this as only the first step in itsdevelopment path and is geared to maintainthe momentum to achieve ever increasingheights.

The company has just completed thecomprehensive upgrade of Ai-Ais, adding valueto tourism in the south of the country.

No ordinary tourism company

NWR is no ordinary tourism establishment. Itoffers its guests a memorable journey acrossNamibia, taking them from the remote andmystic rugged landscape of the SkeletonCoast Park to the wide open plains of EtoshaNationals Park and the exotic woodlands ofPope Falls.

All camps are situated in the heart ofNamibia’s National Parks. NWR operatestourist accommodation to suit individual taste,comfort and preference

Eco-Collection

NWR has introduced exclusive products thatoffer ultimate relaxation, superior service andcomfort all within the confines of the mostpristine wilderness areas of Namibia. SossusDune Lodge, the Namibia’s crown jewel,situated inside the Namib Naukluft Park andOnkoshi Camp, on the edge of the Etosha Paninside Etosha National Park are our premierCamps.

Classic collection

The NWR Classic collection includes favouriteestablishments inside the Parks including thenewly renovated /Ai-/Ais Hot Springs Spa atthe end of the Fish River Canyon, the majesticWaterberg Camp as well as Halalai, Namutoni

Namibia Wildlife Resorts strikesa sustainable tourism balance



and Okaukuejo camps inside EtoshaNational Park.

Adventure and Campingcollection

There is a variety to choose fromdepending on what type of retreat youare looking for. For a desert retreat,there is Sesriem Campsite and for themore adventurous travellers yearning totackle mountains and tough dirt tracksthere is Naukluft Campsite – bothinside the vast Namib Naukluft Park.Terrace Bay Camp and Torra Bay Campoffer great fishing and coastal getawayswhile you can never go wrong with acamping outing inside Etosha NationalPark.

Pioneering new camp

Last year construction began on a newlodge inside Namibia’s flagship NationalPark, Etosha. The new product,Dolomite Camp, situated in theecologically significant western part ofEtosha, an area previously closed off totourism. This becomes NWR’s fifthestablishment inside Etosha and 19thoverall – excluding the Camps underthe Public Private Partnerships. Nestledin the dolomite outcrops of the pristinewestern Etosha National Park, DolomiteCamp offers an intimate experience ofone of the most scenic areas of thePark, and where previously endangeredspecies like Black Rhino have beensuccessfully bred.

This highly anticipated product, whichis expected to increase tourism trafficin and around western Etosha,Damaraland and the Great KuneneRegion, will be the 3rd new tourismfacility built by NWR since theimplementation of the TurnaroundStrategy. The NWR Board andmanagement, and the Ministry ofEnvironment and Tourism haveundertaken a process ofcomprehensive planning to determinethe land-use possibility, tourism valueand ecological viability of erecting aCamp in this part of the Park. Particularattention has been paid on ensuringthat the building approach follows orclosely mirrors the previous eco-friendly design approaches adopted atSossus Dune Lodge and Onkoshi Camp.

To find out more about NamibiaWildlife Resorts at ITB Berlin visit Hall20./114 or go to www.nwr.com.na.

To find out more about World TravelAwards visit worldtravelawards.com

Barefoot luxury at Onkoshi

Sossus Dune Lodge, Namibia Wildlife Resorts

Watching sundown,Onkoshi, NamibiaWildlife Resorts



World Travel AwardsAsia & Australasia Gala Ceremony 2 011Dusit Thani, Bangkok, Thailand 28 September 2011





[email protected]


Global Media Partner Event PartnersMedia Partner Destination Partner



Financial Times




Set right in the heart of Bangkok we are the only fully integrated 5-star hotel, convention venue and one of the largest shopping and lifestyle centres in Southeast Asia. Here you will find everything that you need, from sumptuous accommodation to hi-tech meeting facilities and unrivalled shopping experience. Centara Grand has nine exciting restaurants and bars including Fifty Five and Red Sky, two unforgettable rooftop venues with views across the city skyline. To keep you feeling and looking good there is an outdoor swimming pool, flood-lit tennis courts, fitness centre and SPA Cenvaree dedicated to easing stress and renewing energy levels.

State-of-the-art in every way, Bangkok Convention Centre has everything for hosting events, from a boardroom for 20 persons to an auditorium for 5,000, and is supported by a large and highly experienced team of professionals that will handle an event of any kind and stature.

Early Bird promotion!Centara Grand at CentralWorld offers a complimentary 1 hour welcome reception at Red Sky Bar for every booking of 15 rooms or more made before 15 April for completed stays up to and including 30 June, 2011.

Please contact us at: T +66 (0) 2100 1234 Ext. 6109 E [email protected] www.centarahotelsresorts.com

EVERYTHING YOU NEED IN THE HEART OF BANGKOK


E [email protected]


Caribbean spotlight:Josef Forstmayr,President, CHTA

What are you hoping to achieve at thisyear’s ITB?

We will continue our efforts to promote theCaribbean as the most desirable warmweather destination in the Westernhemisphere. We will need stronger airliftsupport from Europe, hence the need tostimulate the German and other European touroperators to help lobby for direct airconnections from continental Europe.

How is your Tourism in Key campaignprogressing?

The CHTA’s advocacy campaign of “Tourism isKey” is progressing very well. We have justconcluded a most successful advocacy eventin Antigua with the full support of the mediaand the government there. We have alsoreceived support in our efforts to promotebetter, low cost regional airline connections.Hopefully, within the next six months, we willhave several new connections between theEastern Caribbean and their fellow LesserAntilles as well as Jamaica.

Caribbean Marketplace 2011 washosted in Jamaica. What was youroverall impression of how the eventwas received?

Jamaica was a very definite draw to pull in thehighest number of suppliers and buyers for the

past three years! The convention was judgedto be highly successful by most participants.Jamaica and the many improvements in itsphysical infrastructure (new airports, newhotels and attractions and improved roadwaysystems) showed extremely well. All wereimpressed with the high level ofprofessionalism and the warmth of theJamaican hospitality.

How do you think the new Montego BayConvention Centre will help Jamaica,as well the Caribbean, as a businesstourism destination?

The new Montego Bay Convention Centre willoffer a great opportunity to make Montego Bayand Jamaica the perfect venue for medium tolarge conferences. This beautiful facility,coupled with Jamaica’s great regional andinternational air access and tourism facilitieswill make Jamaica and Montego Bay theepicentre of national, regional andinternational convention business.

How do you envisage 2011 shaping upfor Caribbean travel and tourism?

The Caribbean is presently experiencing a verygood winter season. Many of our destinationsare gaining back ground lost during the mostrecent recession. There is also a solid sense ofoptimism. We hope that this trend will continuethrough the summer season. Overall, new

product and better airlift will ensure that theregion’s tourism arrival will continue to grow.

Which areas of the industry presentthe best opportunity for growth?

We see a solid growth for family travel, thegood value all inclusive, as well as the luxuryend of the industry. Sports, soft adventure andcultural experiences will continue to providethe attractions for our visitors to choose theregion over the competition.

Which nation within Europe offer themost potential for growth?

Naturally, the major markets in the Europe, theUK, Germany, Italy and Spain continue toprovide the greatest opportunity for furthergrowth. The emergence of the newer membersof the European Union as well as Russia willprovide us with new and exciting markets. Ourregion must review the existing visa regimesfor any country which could be considered forgrowth. There will be limited growth as long asrestrictive visa requirements remain in place.

Tell us some of the things you’velearned as president of CHTA.

One of the most wonderful experiences for mewas that our industry, both in the privatesector and the public sector, is totally united.

Tourism is the economic lifeblood of theCaribbean, a message promoted by CHTA in its“Tourism Is Key” advocacy campaign. BTN talks toJosef Forstmayr, President of the CHTA, as well asManaging Director of Round Hill Hotel and Villas.

Josef Forstmayr



All the persons I have the pleasure to lead orassociate with are truly passionate andcommitted to do what is necessary to continueto grow tourism for the benefit of ourCaribbean people.

Why do you think the Caribbeannations are among the most travel andtourism dependent in the world?

The United Nations World TourismOrganisation established that out of 10countries most dependent on tourism, sevenare in the Caribbean. It is our job therefore tolead the advocacy efforts with our policymakers as well as our nationals to ensure thatthis vital industry continues to receive thesupport it deserves.

To find out more about Jamaica at ITB Berlinvisit Hall 3.1/208

To find out about CHTA visitcaribbeanhotelassociation.com

www.roundhill.com

Round Hill was voted World’s Leading Villa at2010 World Travel Awards

Round Hill Aerial View

Understated elegance at Round Hill



World Travel AwardsGrand Tour 2011

Middle East Gala CeremonyArmani Hotel

Dubai, UAE • 2 May 2011

Caribbean & The Americas Gala CeremonySandals Royal Caribbean

Montego Bay, Jamaica • 11 May 2011

Europe Gala CeremonyCornelia Diamond Golf Resort & SpaAntalya, Turkey • 2 September 2011

Africa & Indian Ocean Gala CeremonyRoyal Savoy

Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt • 16 September 2011

Asia & Australasia Gala CeremonyDusit Thani

Bangkok, Thailand • 28 September 2011

Grand Final Gala CeremonyNovember 2011

[email protected]


2012Caribbean & Central America Gala CeremonyNassau, Bahamas • 14 January 2012

Europe Gala CeremonyBerlin, Germany • 6 March 2012

North America Gala CeremonyLos Angeles, USA • 21 April 2012

Middle East Gala CeremonyDubai, UAE • 30 April 2012

Africa & Indian Ocean Gala CeremonyDurban, South Africa • 8 May 2012

South America Gala CeremonyRio de Janeiro, Brazil • 18 October 2012

Asia & Australasia Gala CeremonyNew Delhi, India • 28 October 2012


2013 (20th Anniversary Year)

Caribbean & Central America Gala CeremonyMontego Bay, Jamaica • 15 January 2013

Europe Gala CeremonyBerlin, Germany •March 2013

Middle East Gala CeremonyDubai, UAE •May 2013

Africa & Indian Ocean Gala CeremonySharm el Sheikh, Egypt • May 2013

North America Gala CeremonyLas Vegas, USA • 8 June 2013

Asia & Australasia Gala CeremonyShanghai, China • 13 June 2013

South America Gala CeremonyRio de Janeiro, Brazil • 20 October 2013


2014Caribbean & Central America Gala CeremonySan Juan, Puerto Rico • January 2014

Europe Gala CeremonyBerlin, Germany • March 2014

Middle East Gala CeremonyDubai, UAE • May 2014

North America Gala CeremonyOrlando, USA • May 2014

Africa & Indian Ocean Gala CeremonyDurban, South Africa • May 2014

Asia & Australasia Gala CeremonySingapore • October 2014

South America Gala CeremonyRio de Janeiro, Brazil • October 2014


World Travel AwardsGrand Tours 2012-2014

W

[email protected]




Exciting things are happeningin China’s luxury hospitalitymarket with a raft of newopening scheduled for thisyear, as BTN find out.

The World Expo held in Shanghai last year wasthe biggest and most successful the world hasever seen.

By the end of the expo on October 31, morethan 73 million people had visited – a recordattendance – and 250 countries andinternational organizations had taken part.

On October 16 the expo set a single-dayrecord of having more than 1.03 millionvisitors enter the exhibition on that day.

More than £30 billion was spent on preparingfor the event – more than the cost of cleaningup Beijing for the Olympics in 2008.

Six new underground lines were openedbetween 2008 and 2010 and four thousandnew taxis were added in the month before theevent opened.

The city’s excellence was recognised at lastyear’s World Travel Awards, where it secured aclutch of awards including “Asia’s LeadingCruise Port” and “Asia’s Leading Meetings &Conference Destination”.

Shanghai.City.Mobi

With the city going from strength to strength,City.Mobi has recently launchedShanghai.City.Mobi – this definitive guide

provides you need to know about this incredibledestination, from entertainment info to bookinghotels and airport transfers.

City.Mobi offers the most comprehensivemobile travel guides available, with over 800cities in 200 countries listed. This also includesBeijing.City, plus a host of other cities acrossChina. Each is developed by the City.Mobi teamto combine into a single global travel directory.

Key features include information onaccommodation, restaurants, attractions,entertainment, nightlife, shopping, andtransport. City.Mobi guides include userreviews and traveller utilities such as atranslation guide, currency converter, news andlocal weather guide.

New openings

A total of seven new hotels opened in themonths preceding the fair: The Fairmont PeaceHotel on the Bund, Intercontinental ShanghaiExpo, Shanghai Renaissance Putuo, SheratonShanghai Hong Kou, Waldorf Astoria Shanghai,Conrad Shanghai and the Ritz-CarltonShanghai, a sister hotel to the winner of China’sLeading Luxury Hotel at last year’s World TravelAwards, the Portman Ritz-Carlton Shanghai.

The Portman Ritz-Carlton was nominated forthree further awards at the WTAs: “Asia’sLeading Luxury Hotel”, “China’s LeadingConference Hotel” and “China’s Leading Hotel”,which it won in 2008.

The hotel is situated on the Nanjing Xi Lu onthe Bund side of the river, and has 610 guestrooms and suites, six restaurants and loungesserving Chinese, Italian, Japanese and Western

cuisine and a Spa with a health club swimmingpool, gym, squash and racquetball courts.

A number of other hotels were also recognisedat the WTAs including 88 Xintiandi, which won“China’s Leading Boutique Hotel”, for thefourth year in a row.

The hotel has just 53 rooms and is located inthe heart of the French Concession, one ofShanghai’s most evocative and tranquildistricts and has lake, park and city views; aswell as a fitness centre.

The Swissotel Grand secured the accolade of“China’s Leading Business Hotel” and wasnominated in a further two categories: “Asia’sLeading City Hotel” and “Asia’s Leading Hotel”.It has previously won two awards in 2008:“China’s Leading City Hotel” and “China’sLeading New Hotel”.

The hotel is located next to City Plaza andJing'an Temple, a few steps to the city terminaland the Metro Stations in the heart ofShanghai.

It has 467 rooms in a modern andcontemporary design, four restaurants andbars, a health club and spa and extensiveconference and banqueting facilities.

It edged out some of Shanghai’s leading luxuryand business brands Four Seasons, Le RoyalMeridien, Park Hyatt and the St Regis tosecure the award.



China SpotlightChina with a Swiss twist - Swissôtel Grand, Shanghai






China is the key country for luxury hotelexpansion in Asia this year and this is set tocontinue over the next few years.

As Europe’s economy continues to struggleleading hotel groups are targeting China, withits growing middle class, increased airlift anddisposable income.

Seventeen new hotels from six of the world’sleading luxury chains are opening in China inthe next 18 months alone.

Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas will beopening seven new resorts in 2011 – three ofwhich will be in Asia.

The new resorts, two in China and one in Bali,will take the group’s total to 50 propertieswithin the next five years.

Anantara currently has 12 properties, includingseven in Thailand, two of which have received anomination in this year’s World Travel Awardsas Asia’s Leading Luxury Resort: AnantaraPhuket and Anantara Resort Hua Hin.

The new resorts this year are: Anantara SanyaResort & Spa, on the Luhuitou Peninsula andXiaodonghai, on the southernmost point ofHainan Island in south China.

The luxury boutique property will comprise of 128guestrooms and 20 pool villas flanked by twobeaches, Xiaodonghai Bay and Luhuitou Bay, anda coastline that stretches more than 1km.

Anantara Xishuangbanna Resort & Spa islocated in the heart of the HengduanMountains, Xishuangbanna in Yunnanprovince, an idyllic mountainous settingfringing northern Laos. The resort is set on thebanks of the Luosuo River and will feature 103guestrooms, including 80 deluxe rooms and 23pool villas.

Anantara Uluwatu Resort & Spa will open onBali’s south-western tip later this year. Theresort will feature 77 spacious suites all withocean views, and three restaurants.

“We’ve come a long way since our first resortopening in 2001,” said Peter Carmichael,Senior Vice President, Anantara. “As we moveinto our tenth anniversary year we will openseven stunning new resorts that will offerguests luxury and tranquillity in surroundingsthat are culturally and environmentallyuplifting.”

The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group currentlyhas three properties under development in theFar East, two of which are in China and one inTaiwan.

The 401-room Guangzhou hotel will bedesigned as an elegant, contemporaryproperty, which will include 70 servicedapartments and six dining and cocktail venuesand spacious meeting facilities.

The hotel will form part of the 450,000 squaremetre Taikoo Hui mixed-use complex, currently

under construction in the Tianhe CentralBusiness District.

The Shanghai hotel will be located in the heartof the Lujiazui Central Financial District andwill form part of ‘Harbour City’ a 25 hectaremixed use development.

It will include 362 spacious rooms and 210serviced apartments. All accommodation willfeature outstanding views of the city skylineand the Huangpu River. There will be threeeclectic restaurants, a lobby lounge and bar,and a Spa which will include a 25 metre indoorswimming pool and fitness centre.

The Taipei hotel will be developed in the heartof the city and will have 300 rooms, fourrestaurants, two bars and a 20,000 squarefoot spa with fitness centre and outdoorswimming pool.

Mandarin Oriental has been nominated in thisyear’s WTAs as Asia’s Leading Hotel Brand andAsia’s Leading Resort Brand.

In addition, the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kongis in the running for Asia’s Leading BusinessHotel, Asia’s Leading Hotel and Asia’s LeadingSuite.

Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts has predictedthat 2011 will be a “challenging year”, due tothe continuing unstable situation in Thailandand the weak economy in Europe.


Asia expands luxury offerings

Amanipur Pool Suites


The group added: “However, we are tapping intonew growth markets for our guest mix like Chinato compensate for the weaker European market.”

It will be opening five new resorts in the next 12months, including three in China: in Macau,Shanghai and Angsana Hangzhou.

The group also expects to launch an estimated11 spas under management, and has signedthree new hotel management contracts in thepast few months in China.

Banyan Tree and Angsana Tengchong, Yunnan,in the Tengchong Yumagu Hot SpringInternational Tourist Resort; Banyan Tree andAngsana Beibei, Chongqing, near the JialingRiver and Jinyun Mountain; and Angsana HongEn Si, Chongqing, China, in the Jiangbei district,near the Jialing River and Chongqing’s largestcentral forest park, Hong En Si Park.

The group will take over the management of theSheraton Grande Laguna Phuket at the end ofJune from Starwood and will launch a flagshipAngsana Resort.

A new Aman Spa has opened on the privateisland retreat of Amanpulo, in the Philippines,situated on a slope above the treetops withviews of the Sulu Sea, and has been nominatedas Asia’s Leading Luxury Villa in the WTAs.Amansara in Cambodia has created two new offroad biking tours and in Bhutan AmankoraGangtey has launched a rhododendron hikethrough an old growth rhododendron forest.

A number of other Aman hotels have beennominated for awards at the WTAs, includingAmanusa Bali for the World’s Leading GolfResort and World’s Leading Luxury Golf Resort;Amanpuri, Thailand, for Asia’s Leading Hotel;Amantaka, Luang Prabang, as Asia’s LeadingNew Resort and Amandari, Bali and Amanpurifor Asia’s Leading Spa Resort.

Thailand-based Dusit opened its first property inChina last year, Dusit Thani Sanya, on HainanIsland, known as the Hawaii of the East. Thehotel, which opened in December, has 160rooms, 22 villas and one suite, all overlookingthe South China Sea. It will also have meetingfacilities, a gym and a spa.

Dusit has been nominated as Asia’s LeadingHotel Brand at the WTAs, and the Dusit ThaniLaguna Phuket has secured a clutch ofnominations including Thailand’s Leading BeachResort, Spa Resort, Golf Resort and LeadingResort.

Shangri-La marked its first foray into a businessbrand with the opening of its first Kerry Hotel inShanghai on 18 February this year.

The 31-storey hotel towers over the KerryParkside complex and includes 574 rooms and suites.

“Kerry Hotels will appeal to the businesstraveller who prefers a vibrant and relaxedenvironment without compromising on serviceor quality.

“The hotels are contemporary in style andprovide a seamless link between business,entertainment and recreation,” said Greg Dogan,president and chief executive officer of Shangri-La International Hotel Management Ltd.

The group will opening a number of new hotelsthis year and next, including nine in Asia.

They include seven hotels in China: Manzhouli,Haikou, two in Macau, Yangzhou, Shanghai andLhasa; and one in Iskandar, Malaysia.

The chain has been nominated for a number ofawards at the WTAs, including China’s LeadingBusiness Hotel, China’s Leading Hotel for theShangri-La China World Hotel; Hong Kong’sLeading Hotel, Indonesia’s Leading Hotel andMalaysia’s Leading Hotel and Leading Resort.

Have you got what it takes to be a world-class travel brand?


You can find out about other luxury Asianhotels whilst you’re on the move at ITB. Go toCity.Mobi on your mobile where you can viewall hotels by country.

Loy Nam pool bar by night

Aman Spa Treatment Room

Mandarin Oriental Shanghai







Focus

Dubai Cruise Terminal inexpansion drive

Dubai Cruise Terminal is set for expansion justten years after it was launched as the sectorcontinues to develop.

The property – based at Port Rashid – canpresently handle up to 7,000 passengerssimultaneously, carried on three vessels.However, following the renovations, theterminal will be able to accommodate fivevessels at once, with a welcome offered to8,000 passengers.

“Dubai is the ideal hub for cruise liners to dotheir operations mainly because of ourstrategic location,” said Hamad M. Bin Mejren,executive director at the Department ofTourism and Commerce Marketing in Dubai.

“We have one of the best airports with acapacity of over 60 million passengers; we haveover 130 airlines serving the airports with directaccess to over 200 cities all over the world.

“The port is very convenient for cruiseoperations because it is located right in the city.”

Last year Dubai Cruise Terminal handled390,000 passengers, with visitor numbersexpected to rise to 625,000 by 2015.

TUI Cruises, a joint venture between TUI andRoyal Caribbean Cruises, recently became thelatest cruise line to offer services in the Gulffrom Dubai.

“In comparison to the rest of the Arabian Gulf,Dubai has the most experience in handlingcruise ships, which is why we’ve chosen Dubaias a location,” said Richard J. Vogel, CEO of TUICruises.

Costa Cruises and Royal CaribbeanInternational also call at the port.

Jumeirah reveals Aviation ClubHotel

Jumeirah has revealed plans to open acontemporary style hotel that projectsunderstated luxury. It will have 293guestrooms, 2 restaurants, 2 bars and 2lounges, as well as a spa and health club, andconference and banqueting facilities.

The hotel sits within the grounds of TheAviation Club, the internationally acclaimedsports and leisure complex, home to theDubai Tennis Championships and the award-winning Irish Village.

Colm McLoughlin, managing director of DubaiDuty Free, said: “We are delighted to sign themanagement agreement with Jumeirah Groupwho have a great deal of experience inoperating some of the most iconic hotels inDubai and have expanded considerably inrecent years.

“We are confident that the new hotel will be avalued addition to the business and leisurefacilities in Dubai and compliment thesuccessful Aviation Club.”

The hotel’s proximity to the airport and thewide range of sporting and leisure activities inthe vicinity is expected to make this latestHotel in Dubai popular with high-end businessand leisure travellers, as well as localresidents.

Gerald Lawless, executive chairman ofJumeirah Group, commented: “We arehonoured to have been invited by Dubai DutyFree to operate this exceptional luxurybusiness hotel.

“It gives Jumeirah additional presence in theheart of Dubai and we look forward todelivering our promise of STAY DIFFERENT atthe property when it opens.”

The Dubai central hotel is currently underdevelopment and is expected to open during2011. Jumeirah Group expects to open at leastsix other hotels in 2011, including JumeirahZabeel Saray in Dubai, Jumeirah Etihad Towersin Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Himalayas HotelShanghai, Jumeirah Dhevanafushi andJumeirah Vitavelli in the Maldives, JumeirahFrankfurt as well as potential openings inAzerbaijan and Kuwait.

City.Mobi

With the Dubai going from strength to strength,City.Mobi has recently launcheddubai.city.mobi – this definitive guide providesall you need to know about the mysteriousMiddle East, from entertainment info tobooking hotels and airport transfers.

City.Mobi offers the most comprehensivemobile travel guides available, with over 800cities in 200 countries listed. Each is developedby the City.Mobi team to combine into a singleglobal travel directory.

Key features include information onaccommodation, restaurants, attractions,entertainment, nightlife, shopping, andtransport. City.Mobi guides include userreviews and traveller utilities such as atranslation guide, currency converter, news andlocal weather guide.

Dubai will be exhibiting in Hall 22.A/103.



Developmentsin tourismhotspot Dubai


Mauritius, which is best known for its azurewaters, white beaches and luxury spas, wasrecently named “World Leading IslandDestination” at the World Travel Awards for thesecond year in succession. Fending offcompetition from other island nominees in thecategory including Bali, Barbados, Maldives,Seychelles, Sicily and St Lucia.

According to a recent survey by brandconsultancy Futurebrand, Mauritius is one ofthe hottest destinations in 2011. The surveyasked over 3,000 people worldwide about theirperceptions of destinations in five categories,including tourism, with Mauritius beating thelikes of Australia, New Zealand and Rio deJaneiro as the most trusted, offering excellentvalue-for-money in these times of austeritywhilst also being the ultimate exotic getaway.

BA passengers were in agreement as theynamed Mauritius as a top ten destination for2011. Willie Walsh, BA, CEO commented: We’veseen destinations in the Caribbean and IndianOcean becoming even more popular withleisure travellers looking for sun andrelaxation.”

Increased Airlift

Its popularity is reflected in national carrier AirMauritius increasing capacity on its route

network by 15 percent in 2010. UK servicesincreased from three per week to five, with sixflights per week during the Christmas period.

Donald Payen, commercial andcommunications executive vice-president forAir Mauritius, said: “We are working towards anon-stop daily frequency out of Heathrow. Wewould like to see that happen in the next threeyears, but really the sooner the better.”Meanwhile BA has changed its timetable to givecustomers an extra day in the sun.

Silla Maizey, director of Gatwick, said: “We havea strong premium leisure strategy for Gatwick– we want it to be a hub for great high-endholiday destinations. Moving the Mauritiusflight here helps us to strengthen this positionas it will now sit alongside destinations such asthe Maldives and the Caribbean.

Hotspots In Mauritius

Mauritius is a fascinating, world-in-one-islandslice of paradise that combines tropical luxurywith barefoot extravagance.

Unlike other destinations that also boastcobalt-blue seas, sandy beaches and luxuryhotels, it offers an incredible array of activitiesbeyond sunbathing and swimming.

The island is home to historic sights, culturaldiversity, geographic variation and almostlimitless adventure activities. But perhaps itssingle biggest asset is the relaxed charm of i tswarm and welcoming people.

Mauritius is a fusion of Asia, Africa, France andBritain, and blessed with the world’s mostbreathtaking island locations.

Unsurprisingly, Mauritius is perfect territory forhoneymooners, with palm-fringed beaches,crystal clear water, coral reef-sheltered lagoons– plus an incredible array of luxury hotels.

The stunning coast rings a less-explored butequally spectacular interior – forestedmountains and gorges, bright tropical flowersand palm trees, meadows and arable land, allinterspersed with emerald-green jagged peaks.This includes Black River Gorges NationalPark’s dramatic virgin forests.

The southern interior rises sharply to theisland’s highest peak, Mount Piton (828m). Thevillage of Chamarel is surrounded by lushcoffee and pineapple plantations, and is bestknown for its barren volcanic landscape.

Here the Black River waterfall falls into a steepgorge, whilst the enchanted forest is inhabitedby endangered birds, rare plant species andmonkeys.

Delicious Mauritius



With world-class beaches, Mauritiusboasts 177km of coastline, the majorityof which features beaches of dazzlingbeauty. The coral reef means that muchof the shoreline is protected bytranslucent, calm lagoons, with theopportunity for snorkelling, diving andwatersports out by the reef.

Hotels are clustered along the west,north and east coasts; the south isquieter and more rugged.

One of the most stunning spots is theoverwhelmingly romantic Le Mornepeninsula, in the south-west. There arefew more striking sights than this basaltrock bathed in the orange glow of thesetting sun.

Top Stays

The new Trou Aux Biches re-opened inNovember after a top-to-toerefurbishment costing €100 million. Thearchitecture reflects tropical elegance,modernity and comfort in acontemporary 5-star plus village-styleresort that is the most luxuriouslyauthentic in Mauritius.

It was also awarded “Indian Ocean’sLeading Beach Destination” at WorldTravel Awards 2010 Indian OceanCeremony.

The legendary hotel for couples andhoneymooners, is set in a palm-shadedgrove, on the island’s North-west coast,Trou aux Biches has earned areputation for true Mauritius hospitality,warmth, friendliness and the higheststandards of service.

With Mauritius going from strength tostrength, City.Mobi has recentlylaunched portlouis.mobi - this definitiveguide to the largest city in Mauritius andmain port, which borders the IndianOcean, provides you need to knowabout this incredible destination, fromentertainment info to booking hotelsand airport transfers.

City.Mobi offers the mostcomprehensive mobile travel guidesavailable, with over 800 cities in 200countries listed. This also includesBeijing.City, plus a host of other citiesacross China. Mobi Each is developedby the City.Mobi team to combine into asingle global travel directory.

Key features include information onaccommodation, restaurants,attractions, entertainment, nightlife,shopping, and transport. City.Mobiguides include user reviews andtraveller utilities such as a translationguide, currency converter, news andlocal weather guide.

For information about Mauritiusvisit www.tourism-mauritius.muMauritius Tourism PromotionAuthority will be exhibiting at ITBBerlin Hall 20/128.

To find out more about World Travel Awards visitwww.worldtravelawards.com



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Ice Bar . ice cream parlor .

Dancing Fountain . Kids Play Zone. Kids Arcade. Conference . Centre . Duty Free Shop

S

Attention to each intricate detail is our treasured tradition.Heartfelt dedication and devotion, together with gracious andwarm hospitality, is our gift to you.

Using the gifts of heaven to create heaven on earth.

The Magic of Dusit

Magic is… experiencing divine perfection.

Visit our stand at Hall 26bWebsite: dusitthanibangkok.dusit.com www.facebook.com/dusitthani

… Magic is experiencing divine perfection.… experiencing divine perfection.


warm hospitality, is our gift to you.Heartfelt dedication and devotion, together with gracious andAttention to each intricate detail is our treasured tradition.






Heartfelt dedication and devotion, together with gracious andAttention to each intricate detail is our treasured tradition.

The Magic of Dusit


Website: dusitthanibangkok.dusit.comVisit our stand at Hall 26b

The Magic of Dusit


Website: dusitthanibangkok.dusit.comVisit our stand at Hall 26b


Website: dusitthanibangkok.dusit.com


www.face www.facebook.com/dusitthaniWebsite: dusitthanibangkok.dusit.com www.facebook.com/dusitthani


. 15 Restaurants . 5 Stylish Bars . Queen Vic Pub . 5 cafes . Pangaea Nightclub . Ice Bar . ice cream parlor . Over 60 Shops . Live Entertainment on the stage . Ice Rink . Bowling Alley. Historical Cinema

. Dancing Fountain . Kids Play Zone. Kids Arcade. Conference . Centre . Duty Free Shop

SOHO Square is egypt’s latest shopping and entertainment centre and the largest in the Red Sea region conveniently situated near the 5 star savoy hotel. By day it’s a hub for shopping, ice skating and bowling activities and a pleasant place to have a light meal and rest awhile over a drink. At night SOHO Square comes alive, a square mile of fine restaurants, bars and the Pan-

gaea Nightclub where you can dance the night away.

SOHO SQUARE, SHARM EL SHEIKH: Tel.: (+20-69) 360 2752 . Fax: (+20-69) 360 2753. [email protected] Hotline: (+2) 0100 109 109 (AVIALABLE 24 HOURS)

INDEPTH TOURISM MARKETING: Tel.: (+44) 1844 261 271 . Fax: (+44) 1844 217 744. [email protected] www.soho-sharm.com

EGYPT







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Documents

BTN 9th March 2011