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Middle East and North Africa Edition

MARCH 26, 2011 ISSUE 72

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1212LUXURY JW MARRIOTTHOTEL TO OPEN IN PERUMarriott International has announcedplans to open a luxury JW Marriott Hotelin Cusco. The design of the 153-roomhotel planned to open in 2012.

In This Issue

NASAIR DEBUTS IN TURKEYNasair has stepped up its internationalexpansion with the introduction of threenew destinations in Turkey: Istanbul,Antakya and Adana.

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Princess CruisesUnveils the New Royal Princess

On March 15, the newest addition to Princess Cruiseswas officially revealed along with details of its distinctivefeatures, with the vessels debut expected in spring 2013.

March 26, Issue 72

The latest statistics, released byOman’s Ministry of Tourism andPort Sultan Qaboos, demonstratethat the number of cruise shipvisits to Muscat increased from

78 to 94 in the current season, with the number ofpassengers reaching a record of 213,100, whichrepresents an increase of 72 percent over 2009.During the last years, Muscat has rapidly gainedpopularity. Salem Al Mamari, director general oftourism promotion, Ministry of Tourism,commented on the performance. “The results are very pleasing, especiallyconsidering that passenger arrivals to Muscat in2007 were just 44,885. We are seeing somewelcome recognition in Oman as a preferred cruisedestination. More companies are including Muscatin world itineraries, as well Salalah and Khasab asdistinctive regional destinations in their own right.

The other welcome trend is thedecision by a number ofcompanies to deploy their larger

vessels to our region.”The Ministry has announced its ambition towelcome 300,000 ship passengers in Muscat by2015, and also aims to present an eco-friendlycruise vessel, based in Oman.“We are seeing Oman, and especially Muscat,recognised as offering cruise ships as anauthentic experience, with the visual quality ofa Muscat stop over among the most beautiful inthe world. Experiences like these are welcomedby cruise ship itinerary planners wanting to offersomething special. Also, Musandam/Khasab,with its sheltered waters and mirror-likereflections, and the vitality of sub-tropicalSalalah, are emerging cruise destinations withtheir own natural beauty,” he added.Oman has already surpassed its air passenger recordwith 2.08 million travellers passing through theterminals of Muscat International Airport in 2010,representing an increase of 13 percent compared to2009, according to the recently issued figures of theInternational Air Transport Association.

MARCH 26, 20112

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY

Managing EditorMary Kammitsi

mary@traveltradeweekly.travelJournalistsRita Kasziba

Duncan MacRaeMarianna Keen

Design & LayoutElina Pericleous

Sales & MarketingDimitris Thomaidis

DirectorsAndreas Constantinides

Mary Kammitsi

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Nicosia 1308 CyprusTel: +35722820888Fax: +35722318958

Websitewww.traveltradeweekly.travel

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editorial@traveltradeweekly.travelsales@traveltradeweekly.travel

COUNTRY CURRENCY 1USD=UAE (AED) Dirham 3.67Egypt (EGP) Pound 5.95Saudi Arabia (SAR) Riyal 3.75Lebanon (LBP) Pound 1502.5Bahrain (BHD) Dinar 0.37Jordan ( JOD) Dinar 0.71Syria (SYP) Pound 46.60Kuwait (KWD) Dinar 0.28Qatar (QAR) Riyal 3.64Oman (OMR) Rial 0.38Tunisia (TND) Dinar 1.38Morocco (MAD) Dirham 7.97Iran (IRR) Riyal 10,38Yemen (YER) Rial 215.00Algeria (DZD) Dinar 71.91Libya (LYD) Dinar 1.21

MENA Exchange RatesAccurate as of 24/3/2011Currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar

According to the latest figures from OAG Aviation, the Middle East and AsiaPacific remain the major drivers for global airline growth, with continuouslyincreased capacity and frequency. OAG, a UBM Aviation Company, reported a year-on-year growth of five percentin worldwide scheduled flights in February, with a total of 285.7 million seatsglobally. The number of flights offered rose by four percent, with 2.3 milliondepartures recorded during a month. According to the report, every regional market witnessed a year-on-year increase inFebruary, except Central and South America, which recorded a decline of threepercent in capacity. The two fastest growing markets remain Middle East and AsiaPacific in terms of the frequency of services. The total number of flights offered toand from the Middle East increased to 49,014, representing an increase of 13percent, while services to and from Asia Pacific rose to13 percent to a total of 55,965. The major Middle Eastern airlines are expected to continue their strongperformance. Peter von Moltke, CEO, UBM Aviation, commented on the airlines. “Medium to long haul carriers continue to build their presence in Europeanmarkets, with the objective of securing greater shares of the longer haul markets,which traditionally deliver higher yields. Carriers such as Emirates, Etihad andQatar Airways will continue to increase flights and open new markets as theirdevelopment progresses, and increased frequencies to a number of Europeandestinations are expected by these airlines throughout the year.”

Oman Surpasses Passenger RecordsMuscat, the capital city of Oman, is set to welcome a record number of ship passengersin the current 2010-11 season after also surpassing its air passenger figures in 2010.

Middle East Drives Air Travel Growth

MARCH 26, 20114

Princess Cruises Unveils theNew Royal PrincessOn March 15, the newest addition to Princess Cruises was officiallyrevealed along with details of its distinctive features, with the vesselsdebut expected in spring 2013.

The Royal Princess is thethird ship of its namesaketo be produced by PrincessCruises, however thisinnovative addition to the

fleet offers a unique signature. It will be thefirst of two new-generation ships forPrincess, which is being built by Fincantieriat their Monfalcone Italy shipyard. Theprototype design diverges from the line’sclassic style of vessels.The 141,000 ton, 3,600 passenger ship, willinclude a novel over-water SeaWalk. Theglass-bottomed walkway on the starboardside of Royal Princess’ top-deck will extend

more than 28 feet beyond the vessel’s edge. Three pools will feature on the RoyalPrincess, and along the pool side at night, anoutdoor dance club and water and lightshow will take place. Alan Buckelew, president and CEO, PrincessCruises, commented on the newly designedvessel. “We’re taking the best features of ournewest vessels that have been such customerpleasers, and taking them to the next level.” Royal Princess will include 260,000ft2 ofindoor public space, offering a multitude ofdining and entertainment options throughday and night as well as other features to berevealed in the coming months.

Jersey’s annual Battle of Flowers eventcould this year feature a float devoted toAbu Dhabi and its key attractions.The Channel Island of Jersey, which hasan economic focus on finance andtourism, is seeking to procure two-waytourism links with Abu Dhabi.Senator Philip Ozouf, deputy chiefminister and minister for treasury andresources, Jersey, outlined the plan toinclude an Abu Dhabi float in the annualflower spectacular during a meeting withHis Excellency Sheikh Sultan BinTahnoon Al Nahyan, chairman, AbuDhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA). Themeeting took place alongside the officialopening of the Jersey Financerepresentative office in Abu Dhabi.

Jersey’s Battle of theFlowers Could ShowcaseAbu Dhabi Float

MARCH 26, 20116

Cruise Lines Take the Stage at GIBTMFour of the world’s leading cruise lines, will for the firsttime participate in the Gulf Incentive, Business Travel andMeetings Exhibition (GIBTM) in Abu Dhabi this year.

The high profile event, which promotesnetworking and partnership creation throughoutthe travel industry, will be held March 28-30 atthe Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre(ADNEC).

Cruise lines to take part, this year include Costa Cruises, SilverseaCruises, MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean International. According to Lloyd Kenyon, exhibition manager, GIBTM, theparticipation of four of the world’s most respected cruise lineoperators demonstrates that cruises are being recognised bycorporate bookers as a newly popular travel option. Kenyon stresses the important corporate role cruise operationshave attracted for themselves – forming a sector of employeeincentive travel. “You can think of cruise ships as floating conference centres,complete with state of the art auditoriums and meeting rooms. Acruise can actually save a great deal compared to the costs of a hoteland then, by laying on entertainment and other extras becausealmost everything is included in the one price. It is no surprise thatin the wake of the financial downturn, cruise tourism has emergedas one of the strongest growth areas in Dubai’s hospitality sector,”added Kenyon.Abu Dhabi’s ambition to become an international cruise hub hasreceived a boost following the decision. This is further enhancedby a signing between ADTA and MSC Cruises of a landmark co-operation agreement that will see MSC Cruises deploy one of itstop vessels to Abu Dhabi on a homeport basis from October.

MITT Awards Abu Dhabi ‘Best Attractions Destination’Abu Dhabi was awarded ‘Best Attractions Destination’ at thisyear’s MITT travel fair in Moscow held 16-19 March,outclassing competition from 185 other participatingdestinations.Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), along with 20stakeholders of the organisation, created a highly popularpavilion at the show, which was held at the Expocentre inRussia’s capital city.The stand showcased the headline Ferrari World Abu Dhabitheme park on Yas Island as well as two new beach resorts byAbu Dhabi National Hotels – Park Saadiyat Beach and Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal. Mubarak Al Nuaimi, international promotions manager,ADTA, commented on the Abu Dhabi’s positive contributionto the Moscow event. “Luxury beach resorts are vital to theproduct mix in Russia.”Close coordination between hotels, destination managementcompanies, airlines and other public and private sector travelrelated organisations, has aided Abu Dhabi in becoming an awardwinning luxury travel destination.

MARCH 26, 20118

- Accommodation

Rotana Embraces NewGoogle Agreement Rotana has become the first hotel management company in theMiddle East and Africa to sign the Google agreement of TrustInternational.

The collaboration will enable Rotana to display its room ratesand availability in real-time, in search listings on Google Mapsand related Google Place pages. This will be operated with apay-per-click advertising module connected with the Rotanabooking engine, which is powered by Trust International.

The your Voyager system, which is available in the Americas, Europe and Asia,enables the hotels to display the pricing information of their own website nextto the prices of advertisers, such as online travel agencies, and drive potentialbookers directly to the hotel’s own booking engine. Richard Wiegmann, managing director, Trust International, commented thathoteliers were already delighted with the program. “The response by hoteliers to the program that we jointly developed withGoogle has been outstanding. Since announcing the beta in February, everysingle hotelier we’ve presented it to has jumped at the unprecedentedopportunity this provides to them.”

Hyatt Terminates ManagementAgreement for Grand Hyatt CairoUnresolved contractual disputes with the hotelowner have lead to Hyatt International LLC exitingthe Grand Hyatt Cairo.Hyatt and the hotel’s owner, a Saudi EgyptianTouristic Development Company, have allegedlybeen attempting to resolve the issue for severalweeks via a series of communications, however noresolution has been reached.Gebhard Rainer, managing director, HyattInternational (Europe, Africa and Middle East)LLC, voiced his disappointment regarding thesituation but indicated that it will not affect Hyatt’sperformance in Egypt. “It is unfortunate that the contractual disputes havenot been resolved, forcing us to exit this property,but this does not diminish how important Egypt isand will remain to the Hyatt brand. We willcontinue to operate two Hyatt hotels in Egypt, andare interested in pursuing new developmentopportunities there.” 

MARCH 26, 201110

- Accommodation

Kempinski Soon to Open Luxury Hotel and Residences Palm JumeirahKempinski has announced that it is putting the finaltouches on its first beach property in Dubai, which isscheduled to open July 1.

The Hotel and Residences, developed by EPGHotels and Resorts on the man-made island ofPalm Jumeirah, will operate as a five star all suitehotel. Accommodation on offer includes 244spacious suites, penthouses and villas, some

with the extra luxury of an outdoor private pool or jacuzzi.The classical, elegant European-inspired interior style of theHotel and Residences was designed by award winning firm GAJ,and custom made furniture throughout the hotel wasmanufactured by the Italian design company Francesco Molon.The elegant hotel is complemented with 5 acres of landscapedgardens, a 500 metre private beach and a swimming pool. Thereis also a gym and kid’s playground.A variety of restaurants and bars throughout the hotel offer arange of international cuisines, including Brunello, which servesMediterranean cuisine with an Italian twist. Shopping venues arealso featured on the premises.The Kempinski Hotel and Residences not only caters for theleisure visitor, but also the business traveller, offering a fully-equipped boardroom and a meeting room.Beat Peter, general manager, Kempinski Hotel and ResidencesPalm Jumeirah, remarked on the vision of extravagance that thenew hotel anticipates achieving. “A range of tailor made serviceswill be available such as personal butler, personal chef, the Palaceceremony and many more – all aimed at creating an atmosphereof luxury, relaxation and comfort.”

Kempinski Hotel andResidences Palm Jumeirah

11MARCH 26, 2011

- Air Travel

Bahrain-based airline Gulf Air hastemporarily stopped flights betweenBahrain and Iran and Iraq as unrest inthe Gulf state escalates.The airline stated that it plans torecommence the flights in April and, in

the meantime, all other flights areoperating as normal.Bahrain declared a three-month state ofemergency earlier this month assoldiers from Saudi Arabia and otherGulf states entered the country in a bid

to quash protestors calling fordemocracy.The Gulf Air sales offices in Manamaand Seef Mall will remain open from8am until 6 pm in order to deal withcustomers’ queries.

Etihad Reveals Plans for Malé FlightsUAE-based airline Etihad Airways has revealed that it will launch flights to the Maldives on November 1,subject to government approval.

Gulf Air Suspends Iran and Iraq Flights

The airline plans tooperate a daily returnservice from Abu Dhabito Malé InternationalAirport with a seating

capacity of 1,904 each week. James Hogan, CEO, Etihad Airways,describes Malé as a gateway to theMaldives, a premium leisure destination,adding that the commencement of the

services in November was perfectly timedto coincide with the start of the busynorthern winter period.“Given the strong increase in visitationnumbers we are seeing in the market, thetime is right to launch services to thispopular holiday destination.”Etihad Airways expects the services toappeal to UAE leisure travellers, as well ascustomers from its major European

markets, particularly with the strongconnectivity options on offer.“Etihad’s schedule, which offers an attractiveafternoon arrival and evening departure, hasbeen carefully designed to offer customersmaximum leisure time at their destination.In fact, European travellers can takeadvantage of our overnight flights in bothdirections, offering them a full extra day inthe Maldives,” Hogan added.

MARCH 26, 201112

- Air Travel

Nasair Debuts in TurkeyNasair has launched three new destinations in Turkey: Istanbul,Antakya and Adana.

Jazeera Airways is to enhance its operationswith the introduction of seasonal flights toIstanbul and additional services to threeother destinations ahead of summer. The carrier’s summer schedule, effectiveMarch 27, will offer seasonal flights toIstanbul, two times a week between April andOctober. It will also include additionalservices to three other popular destinations,Damascus, Dubai and Jeddah.The Kuwaiti based airline will increase thefrequency of its Dubai route to four dailyflights on Thursdays and Saturdays and withthe launch of two additional services willoffer 12 flights a week to Damascus.Furthermore, the carrier also expands itsoperation to Jeddah with daily services,except Friday. Starting on March 27, Jazeera Airways’ newschedule will offer passengers more choiceand flexibility ahead of the summer season.

Jazeera Intensifies Summer Schedule

W ith theintroduction ofthe newdestinations,Nasair became

the first carrier to offer scheduled flightsfrom Saudi Arabia to Antakya andAdana. The new flights bring the number ofNasair’s international destinations to 21cities, Turki Al Jawini, director of sales,nasair, said. “We at Nasair are very proudof our achievements to date and arecommitted to the ongoing development ofservices for our customers and furtherexpansion of our network.”The airline will operate 11 scheduledweekly flights between Saudi Arabia andTurkey.

“The Turkish air travel market is one ofthe largest in the region. To betterservice travellers between the twocountries, we have introduced fourdirect flights between Jeddah andIstanbul each week, three weekly directflights between Jeddah and Adana, aswell as twice weekly direct servicesbetween Antakya and Jeddah andAntakya and Riyadh,” added Al Jawani. “Nasair operates more than 500scheduled flights every week to 21international and six domesticdestinations with the youngest and mostfuel efficient fleet in the region. We willshortly be announcing moreinternational routes and improved smartservices to make direct booking withNasair even easier,” said Al Jawini.

MARCH 26, 201114

- International

Nanjing, China, Gets First Westin HotelStarwood Hotels & Resorts has accelerated its growth inChina with the opening of its first Westin property in Nanjing.The hotel, set in the Nanjing International Centre, is thecompany’s 11th hotel in China. Plans for further hotels in thecountry will take Starwood Hotels & Resorts’ Chinese portfoliofrom 70 properties to more than 114 by the end of 2012.Nancy London, vice president and global leader, WestinHotels, commented that Westin Nanjing is a terrific additionto the company’s fast-growing portfolio in China, givingWestin a foothold in one of the country’s most vital economicand cultural centres.“Fueled by the success of its distinctive wellness positioning,Westin is well on its way to establishing itself as aninternational market leader with unprecedented opportunitiesfor growth in the world’s most rapidly developing economies.”Overlooking Xuanwu Lake, The Westin Nanjing is located inthe Hunan Road central business district in the heart ofdowntown Nanjing. Richard Deutl, general manager, Westin Nanjing, noted thathe expects the Westin brand to contribute to the increasingimportance of Nanjing as a tourism and business destination.

Luxury JW Marriott Hotelto Open Cusco, Peru

Marriott International has announced plansto open a luxury JW Marriott Hotel inCusco. The design of the 153-room hotel,planned to open in 2012, will be heavilyinfluenced by a nearby colonial church and

ancient Inca artifacts found on the site. The property will be operated under a management agreementwith Inversiones La Rioja, S.A., owners of JW Marriott HotelLima. Alfonso Brazzini, chairman, board of Inversiones La Rioja, SA,was proud that the project will honour the history and the cultureof the Inca people and the heritage of their country.“This project will surely be one of the most unique in the world,utilising the latest engineering and technology to preserve thepast and create a hotel environment for today. We are gratefulfor the collaboration between Inversiones La Rioja and thenational and international institutions that provide protectionto human heritage.”

The Elaf Group forTravel, Tourism andHotels has successfullyrepresented SaudiArabia in a series of

specialised exhibitions, seminars andworkshops around the world.The group attended the secondedition of Hajj & Umrah ServicesExhibition in Jakarta, Indonesia,which attracted more than 85international companies, and thesecond Hajj and Umrah Exhibition,held in Malaysia recently, at which250 companies participated.Ziyad Bin Mahfouz, CEO, Elaf Group,noted that the exhibitions help SaudiArabia to develop strategic partnerships

with travel agencies.“It also facilitated exchange ofexperiences and best practices withindustry experts and specialists with theunderlining goal of developing Hajj andUmrah services,” Bin Mahfouz added.

MARCH 26, 201116

Riyadh Hotel Boosts Local EmploymentCorp Executive Hotel Deira, in Riyadh, hasachieved nearly 60 percent Saudisation, with 41of its 70 staff members being Saudi nationals.Akram Shaar, general manager, Corp ExecutiveHotel Deira, praised the work of the company’sHR department for managing to attract and trainSaudi staff.“This level of commitment is already contributingto the strong launch of our property, with guestsshowing their appreciation of a real feeling ofSaudi hospitality – and we also welcome theopportunity to provide opportunities in thethriving hospitality industry to those locals whowish to pursue a career in this arena,” said Shaar. Corp Executive Hotels, a division of HMH(Hospitality Management Holdings), launchedin 2010 and currently has properties in Dubai,Doha and Riyadh, with plans for an additionalfour hotels throughout Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia Well Represented at Global Events

It also facilitatedexchange of experiences

and best practices

Jakarta exhibtion 2011

Manu MadanManu Madan has been appointed asgeneral manager at City SeasonsHotel Muscat. In his new role he hasbeen tasked to lead the opening ofCity Seasons Group’s first property inOman. Madan, who brings 23 yearsof experience in the hospitalityindustry, has previously also helped at

the launch of City Seasons Hotel Dubai. Madan began his careerin the Middle East in 1988 as sales executive for MetropolitanHotel before being promoted to director of sales and later toexecutive assistant manager and group director of businessdevelopment. In 2004 he took on his first general managerposition at the same hotel, followed by the same role at CitySeasons Hotel Dubai and Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, Dubai.

17MARCH 26, 2011

Allan FedererAllan Federer has been promotedto general manager at Ritz-Carlton, Dubai. In his new role hewill lead a team of 267 employees,and will spearhead the sales andmarketing operations to generatemaximum revenue. Furthermore,he will be in charge to prepare thehotel for its continued growthwith the implementation of theexpansion project. Federer, hasover 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry and heldfive general manager positions in the last 10 years at Ritz-Carlton. Most recently he led the opening operations atRitz-Carlton, Dove Mountains, and directed the hotel toseveral achievements after launching it.

Ameen Al-DarawshehAmeen Al-Darawsheh has joinedSheraton Deira Hotel as director ofsales and marketing. Al-Darawshehbrings more than 10 years of experiencein hospitality management to theStarwood property. Prior to taking onhis new role, he led the conventioncentre as director of convention sales

for Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel and also expandedhis experience in various food and beverage positions. In his newrole, Al-Darawsheh will be in charge to explore new markets andopportunities in order to increase the local market share, buildmarketing strategies and take the property a step further.

Eliza SiqueiraEliza Siqueira has been appointed as director of rooms atGrand Millenium Al Wahda. In her new role she has beentasked with directing and supporting the management ofhousekeeping, front office and concierge operations of thehotel. Siqueira will be also responsible for establishing goals,measurements and action plans for room operations and willbe in charge to provide the training, support and

accountability required toteam members. Prior to taking on a newrole, she held the operationmanager’s role at Al JawharaHotel & Apartments inDubai. Previously sheworked as general managerat Queenstown LuxuryHotel & Spa in NewZealand and as director ofrooms at Four Seasons inNew York and Miami.

Allan Federer

ManuMadan

Eliza Siqueira

Ameen Al-Darawsheh

MARCH 26, 201118

Travel Talk is your space – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hearfrom you, so send your comments, questions, frustrations and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel

Samir HamadehGeneral Manager, Alpha Tours"We also have to be careful tothe sensitivity of tourism trendsin general and the geopoliticalknowledge of tourists fromEurope and elsewhere, as theseturbulent situations can alsohave a negative feel towards thearea, so we do hope all thesesituations come to a peacefulend in the near future."

Selim El ZyrPresident and CEO, Rotana“We are constantly developing innovative ways toenhance our brand value by anticipating travel trendsand guest preferences, rather than just following them.This is one of the great strengths of Rotana."

We areconstantlydevelopinginnovative

ways toenhance

our brandvalue

We do hope all these situations come to apeaceful end in the near future

Selim El Zyr

Samir Hamadeh

MARCH 26, 201120

Name: Leo FewtrellPosition: General ManagerCompany: Dubai Travel & Tour Agents GroupLocation: Dubai, UAE

Agent’s Insight

Emirates Holidays Embraces Trends Emirates Holidays, the tour-operating arm of Emirates airline,has published its latest brochure, A World of Choice, and will bepresented at a three-day travel event and exhibition in Dubai. The new catalogue, which features 130 destinations in 37 countries,including the recently introduced new destinations of the airlines,caters to all types of holiday makers. Frederic Bardin, senior vicepresident, Emirates Holidays, comments on the brochure.“With every A World of Choice brochure, we aim to reflectcurrent trends and shifts in holiday travel, and of course, furtherelevate the well-researched, bespoke holiday offerings we areknown for. Although the past two years have seen a markedimprovement for the travel industry, people are generally lookingfor more value for their money when considering holiday now.”Emirates Holidays will celebrate the launch of the 2011-2012 issuewith a three-day travel event and exhibition at the Event Centre,InterContinental Dubai Festival City between April 29 and May 1.

Who are you?  I have been in the Gulf since 1979, and have worked for airlinesand travel agencies. I am now a partner of Gulfreps, a marketingand representation company in the GCC and I am also the generalmanager of Dubai Travel & Tour Agents Group formed underthe auspices of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry. What is your favourite thing about working in the travelindustry? I enjoy the long hours and the interaction with different culturesand age groups. I like being able to use my experience to assistpeople and provide training facilities and opportunities. When is the best time to visit the UAE?  When you come from England as I do; anytime is a good time. Ifthe sun is shining it must be a good day as opposed to Manchesterwhen you look out of the window at 10.00 a.m. at the grey cloudsand pouring rain in summer and know that this is the best it willbe all day. But obviously, for most people the current climate isbeautiful and November through to April is very temperate.Where would you like to travel to for your next holiday?  So many places; however I love Queensland and the GoldCoast of Australia where my family have enjoyed several visitsover the years. The mix and proximity of the beaches and therainforest make it a wonderful exciting place for all ages. Why should people come to you for travel advice? DTTAG agencies are recognised by the Chamber of Commerceand accountable for their actions and activities. Consumers whohave any complaints or questions can take up their issues with theirExecutive Committee who will consider and action accordingly.

The massive earthquakeoff the coast of HonshuIsland on March 11 andsubsequent tsunami thathit the country was

devastating, and damage to the Fukishimanuclear power plant sparked fears ofradiation leaks.Numerous governments around theworld urged their citizens not to travel tothe country until it was clearly safe to doso. The fact that damage to the nation’sinfrastructure, including airports inNarita, Haneda and Sendai, was extensivehas not helped matters.A string of airlines either stopped flights toJapan or temporarily scaled back

operations to the country over safety fears,while they monitored the situation closely.Air China was one airline to temporarilycut back flights to Japan. Its reason fordoing so was more to do with fears overpotential aftershocks, rather thanconcerns over radiation leaks.Other airlines to cut back services includedNippon Airways, British Airways, VirginAtlantic and Taiwan’s EVA Airways. Jetstar,the budget offshoot of Qantas Airways, hasalso cut flights to Japan but blamed the cutson a fall in demand from Japanesecustomers. America’s Delta Airlines hasalso slashed its Japan capacity citing notjust the earthquake as a major reason, butalso high fuel costs.

Egypt Air, meanwhile, announced that itssuspended Japan service, which was toresume on March 27, would remain out ofaction. The airline claims, however, thatthis decision had been taken prior to theoccurrence of the earthquake.Even though some airlines have resumednormal service, many of their stocks havedropped sharply.Bill Carlderwood, CEO, Pacific Air TravelAssociation, admitted that Asia’s traveltrade would be negatively affected forquite some time but predicted a swift andpowerful recovery.Outbound travel, in particular, would beimpacted in the short-term and touristswould be put off travelling to Japan for thetime being. “Japan is a very importantmarket for Asia. Something like in excessof 10 million Japanese travelled overseasto other parts of Asia last year.” saidCarlderwood. “You would think this outbound travelwould be affected but it’s likely that otherAsian countries will pick up the slack. Chinais an extremely strong market, as is India.We predict an average annual growth ofseven percent over the next three years inthe region. That’s very healthy and the bestgrowth rate in the world. Tourism in Asiawill drive global tourism but the growth inAsia will also be dependent on inter-regional growth,” added Carlderwood. “The earthquake, tsunami and fears overpotential radiation are all factors as to whytourists will be staying away but it isalways amazing how low cost carriers areable to stimulate business in thesescenarios.”It is vital that accurate information isreleased to the public as quickly aspossible regarding the situation in Japanso that travellers can make informeddecisions about where they wish to travel.

Tsunami Creates Uncertainty in Japanese TourismJapan’s popular annual blossom festival began this month but, unsurprisingly, the mood is a sombre one andtourists are staying away.

MARCH 26, 201122

Japan is a very

importantmarket

for Asia.Something

like in excess of10 millionJapanesetravelledoverseas to otherparts ofAsia last

year

Travel Trade Weekly: WyndhamHotel Group recently announced thefirst Wyndham Grand property in theMiddle East. Can you tell us aboutthis and why Doha was chosen? Eric A. Danziger: The Middle East andits major cities, including Doha, are veryimportant for our growth. As the world’slargest hotel company, we are committedto developing great properties andproviding outstanding service in toptravel markets around the world. TheMiddle East represents great businessopportunities and unique leisure travelexperiences, and we are helping topromote this by opening properties suchas the luxury, 246-room Wyndham GrandRegency Doha.This hotel will be the first Wyndham Grandproperty in the Middle East when it opensthis spring. The opening of this hotel is veryexciting for the brand and our company, asit both expands our presence in the regionand represents growth in our managed-hotel portfolio. The Wyndham GrandRegency Doha hotel will be managed byWyndham Hotel Management Inc. and isowned by the esteemed Doha-basedRegency Group Holding, which is theowner of our proposed Planet Hollywoodhotel in Doha as well as the Ramada EncoreDoha, our first Ramada Encore in theQatari capital. Upon reflagging, the Wyndham GrandRegency Doha will join the WyndhamGrand Collection, an ensemble ofdistinguished hotels within the WyndhamHotels and Resorts brand that represent one-of-a-kind experiences in key destinationswith refined accommodations, attentiveservice and relaxed surroundings. The hotel is located 15 km from DohaInternational Airport, centrally located in

the Qatari capital’s Al Sadd area near theExhibition Centre and Cornichewaterfront promenade. It will featurethree on-site restaurants and a café,wireless internet throughout, a businesscentre, meeting facilities including five 50m2 rooms, the Angsana Spa, a gym,swimming pool and a ‘fat-burning studio’with a chamber designed to speed up thebody’s metabolism.  The property willalso offer VIP limousine service as well ascomplimentary valet parking andconcierge service for all guests.

Travel Trade Weekly: As youmentioned, Wyndham also plans tolaunch the first Planet Hollywoodhotel in the Middle East. Could youtell us about the property?Eric A. Danziger: Bringing the PlanetHollywood brand to Doha, one of theworld’s most dynamic tourist andbusiness destinations, is incrediblyexciting for Wyndham Hotel Group andPlanet Hollywood Hotels, as it marks theinaugural expansion of the brand in theregion. It is also the first property we haveannounced since our two great companiessigned a license agreement in September2010 granting Wyndham Hotel Groupexclusive rights to franchise PlanetHollywood branded hotels and providemanagement services globally. As you know, Planet Hollywood is aworld-renowned, entertainment-basedbrand that is ideally suited to travellers anddevelopers seeking unique experiences,distinctive dining and outstanding service,and we’re so pleased to bring this uniqueexperience to the Middle East.The proposed Planet Hollywood HotelEntertainment City will be located nearQatar’s widely known theme park and will

feature approximately 300 guest rooms, arestaurant and café, a lounge, meetingfacilities, fitness center, a spa and pool.The owner, Regency Group Holding,expects the hotel to open in 2014. Theproperty will be managed by WyndhamHotel Management, Inc. or one of itssister companies.

Travel Trade Weekly: Any futureprojects planned for the Middle East? Eric A. Danziger: There are anabundance of opportunities to grow ourcompany’s presence in the Middle East.We currently have over 30 hotels openand operating in the region under theRamada and Days Inn brands and we’rethrilled to add the recently-announcedRamada Encore Doha, Wyndham GrandRegency Doha and the proposed PlanetHollywood hotel to our growingportfolio. We continue to look foropportunities to introduce and build ourbrands in the region and provide travellerswith more lodging options.

23MARCH 26, 2011

Q&A with Eric A. DanzigerAfter the successful opening of Ramada Encore Doha, Wyndham is poised to debut the first Wyndham Grandand Planet Hollywood hotels in the Middle East. Eric A. Danziger, president and CEO, Wyndham HotelGroup, talks about the new properties and the group’s strategic direction.

Eric A. Danziger

MARCH 26, 2011224

EventsChina Outbound Travel and Tourism MarketBeijing, China, April 13-15, 2011 (www.cottm.com)Dedicated business to business event targeting the growingmarket for outbound travel from China.

Arabian Travel MarketDubai, UAE, May 2-5, 2011 (www.arabiantravelmarket.com)The Middle East’s largest travel and tourism exhibition.

Bahrain International Travel ExpoManama, Bahrain, May 12-14, 2011 (www.meembahrain.com)Travel expo for travel professionals in Bahrain and the Middle East.

IndabaDurban, South Africa, May 7-10, 2011(www.indaba-southafrica.co.za)Showcases the widest variety of Southern Africa's best tourismproducts.

The Hotel ShowDubai, UAE, May 17-19, 2011(www.thehotelshow.com)Hospitality event for the MENA, GCC & emerging markets.

International Pow Wow 2011San Francisco, USA, May 21-25, 2011(www.ustravel.org/events/international-pow-wow)An international marketplace and the largest generator of VisitUSA.

IMEXFrankfurt, Germany, May 24-26, 2011(www.imex-frankfurt.com)Worldwide exhibition for incentive travel, meetings & events.

AIBTMBaltimore, USA, June 21-23, 2011(www.aibtm.com)US event for the business travel and meetings industry.

Saudi Travel and Tourism Investment Market to Attract Global VisitorsKey industry players are expected tomeet at the annual flagship Saudi Traveland Tourism Investment Market(STTIM), scheduled to run from March27-31 at the Riyadh InternationalExhibition Centre.Backed by the Saudi Commission ofAntiquities, the exhibition aims to procurepositive attention on the Saudi tourismindustry, providing the opportunity forindustry professionals to gain knowledgeinto the Saudi tourism industry, which isconsidered one of the most importanttrade markets in the region.The event will also instigate network andinfluence information sharing on a marketand global scale. One aim of STTIM is toattract investments and to exchange

valuable travel and tourism informationand experience.Successful industry players, from varioussegments and from throughout the world,will speak at the event, informingdelegates of their opinions and feedbackregarding the current market. Workshopswill also be held to maximise theinformation sharing experience.In order to attract visitors and furtherpromote the region, hotels throughoutRiyadh will endorse their facilities.

The Park Hyatt Jeddah Marina, Club andSpa, will offer a place to stay just minutesaway from the central business district. Itwill entice visitors not just with its high-end business facilities, but based on theRed Sea, reminds clients of the natureSaudi Arabia has to offer.A focus of activities at STTIM will lie inraising the profile of the Saudi nation as amajor travel destination, with allhospitality leaders and business mogulswelcome in discussions.

Park Hyatt Jeddah