March 2012 edition

any

Founded in 1997.

March 2012

● An Interview With Mrs. Mara Armanini.

● Exhibitions News…ITE Hong Kong, China.

● Asian World...The 'Millionaire's Tour' Of Myanmar.

● Middle East & North Africa News...Tourism Boosts Dubai Economy.

● Aviation News...Aegean Carried 6.5 Million Passengers In 2011.

● Tourism News...Rent The Acropolis For The Day.

● Germany News… A Good Start For 2012.

● Islands of the World…Gangga Island, Indonesia.

17-19 April, 2012, Shanghai, China

TATW Monthly 2012 © Aveiro, Portugal. www.tourismaroundtheworld.co.uk

2 www.tour ismaroundtheworld.co.uk

an interview with...

Mrs. Mara Armanini

Managing Director Mrs. Mara Armanini reflects on the development of VENTOTESO di AURA srl and its special travel services and specialization. This interview was conducted during the ATF Show 2012, held in Manado, Indonesia, by Dimitri Laspas - publisher of TOURISM AROUND THE WORLD Monthly. Clearly and briefly Mrs. Mara Armanini talks to Dimitri Laspas about her achievements, her company, country and her favourite destinations.

Where is your favourite holiday destination? Asia,

because of the food, gentle people and excellent landscape.

What is your greatest achievement in life? Opening

my company.

Which philosopher(s) in the world do you most respect? I respect all the mentalities and philosophy.

How did you get into this industry? I started to work in

the tourism industry when I was very young as a teenager.

What is the best thing about your job? Always getting

to know new people, cultures and travelling.

What makes your company successful? A very

personalised service and knowing all the hotels, resorts and destinations personally.

How strong is the meetings portfolio in your company? At the moment we have enough of a meetings portfolio; it’s not very big but for the time being, we are satisfied.

What is your main market? Considering that I have a lot

repeat clients, my market is almost all the world.

How do you see the current status of the M.I.C.E industry in Italy and how do you see its future? At the

moment the M.I.C.E. sector in Italy is a bit weak because of the big crisis we have.

What do you personally think could be done to improve Italy position as a M.I.C.E destination in Europe and/or the world? We must have an excellent

professionalism, knowledge and flexibility.

How do you see the future of Italy tourism in attracting Chinese and Middle Eastern F.I.T and Business Travellers? The Chinese market is a very

difficult market because of the very different habits and language they have. Italy is ready to welcome Chinese clients as well as those from the Middle East.

Can you tell us more about Milan and the region of Lombardy concerning the tourism facilities and hospitality? Lombardy has a lot of different places to

spend a holiday or to organise a M.I.C.E. event, we have the lakes to the mountains where one can do a lot of team building and or relaxing experiences. How can you describe Milan as a leisure and business tourism destination? Milan is a great

destination for all ages, it’s the ideal location for business, leisure and shopping for all pockets and in 2015 we have a great event the World EXPO. ■

BML International-UK

a marketing & consulting company in tourism, m.i.c.e and exhibitions.

www.bmlinternational.co.uk


part of Laspas Associates

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4 www.tourismaroundtheworld.co.uk

The World Of Aviation

AEGEAN CARRIED 6.5 MILLION PASSENGERS IN 2011 AEGEAN Airlines

has confirmed that 2011 passenger figures with international network traffic

exceeding domestic for the first time in its history.

More specifically, international network passengers rose by 15%, reaching 3.52 million out of total 6.5 million passengers carried in 2011. The main feature of 2011 performance was the significant increase in activity achieved not only out of Athens Airport, the airlines base, but also rose despite the decline in total international arrivals in Athens, but mainly out of the country’s regional airports. Aegean operated a total of 102 international routes, flying out of 6 airports in Greece (Athens, Heraklion, Rhodes, Kos, Thessaloniki and Corfu). Markets like UK, Belgium, France, Israel and Russia registered particularly high growth rates. As a result of the company’s strategic investment of operating direct international flights from/to regional airports, growth in international passengers reached 37% from/to Rhodes, 23% from/to Heraklion and 10% from/to Thessaloniki, reaching a total of 1.1 million international passengers.

AIRASIA CONSIDERS BUDGET SERVICE IN GULF Malaysia's AirAsia is considering setting up a low-cost carrier to serve the Gulf region, almost 2 years after its long-haul division AirAsia X axed its Kuala Lumpur to Abu Dhabi service. The key is to create really low fares, which until now the Gulf has not seen. The airline had already opened discussions with unnamed potential partners to set up such a budget carrier.

BOEING AND JAKARTA-BASED LION AIR Boeing

and Jakarta-based Lion Air has finalised a firm order for 201 737 MAXs and 29 Next-Generation 737-900ERs (extended range). The agreement also includes purchase rights for an additional 150 airplanes. It will be the 1st airline in Asia to fly the 737 MAX and to be the global launch customer of the 737 MAX 9. With orders for 230 airplanes valued at EU€16.90 (UK£14.10) billion at list prices, this deal is the largest

commercial airplane order ever in Boeing's history by both dollar value and total number of airplanes. The 737 MAX is

a new engine variant of the world's best selling airplane and builds on the strengths of today's Next-Generation 737. The 737 MAX incorporates the latest-technology CFM International LEAP-1B engines to deliver the highest efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort in the single-aisle market. Airlines operating the 737 MAX will see a 10-12% fuel burn improvement over today's most fuel efficient single-aisle airplanes and a 7% operating cost per seat advantage over tomorrow's competition. To date, the 737 MAX has orders and commitments for more than 1,000 airplanes from 15 customers and the Next-Generation 737 family has won orders for more than 6,600 airplanes. Lion Air, Indonesia's largest private airline, currently operates or has on order a total of 178 Next-Generation 737s.

LUFTHANSA TO RESUME FLIGHTS TO TRIPOLI From February, the Libyan capital will be served three times a week on Mondays, Thursday and Sundays - from Frankfurt. Operated by an Airbus A319, the flight will take just 3 hours. Last year Lufthansa temporarily suspended flights to and from Libya because of the political unrest in the country.

JETSTAR FLIES TO NEW ZEALAND Jetstar, the

discount brand of Australian airline Qantas Airways, boosted its share of New Zealand's domestic market, even as its parent company reported an 82% slump in first-half earnings. Jetstar raised its share of New Zealand's domestic routes to 19.9% from 14.9% a year earlier. That captures the changing dynamic in the market, after Virgin Airline's Pacific Blue quit New Zealand's domestic routes in October 2010. National carrier Air New Zealand controls about 80% of the market. Jetstar was the biggest contributor to underlying pre-tax earnings with EU€120, (UK£99.80) million in the period, some 53% of the EU€225 (UK£188) million.

ROYAL JORDANIAN SUSPENDS SERVICE TO 5 DESTINATIONS The carrier will initially suspend service to

Brussels, Munich and Al Ain in March and April, and to 2 other destinations in the Gulf at a later date. To further reduce costs the carrier is also cutting back on frequencies to Rome, Vienna, Zurich, Geneva, Amsterdam, Colombo and Khartoum. The decision was based on the assessment of the performance and economic feasibility of these destinations. The airline will cancel more flights during the year based on the amount of bookings to certain destinations and will keep tight control on all aspects of capital expenditure.

global news for tourism, m.i.c.e & exhibitions


Hong Kong Internat ional A i rport , China

The World Of Aviation

QATAR AIRWAYS HAS OPENED ITS NEW PREMIUM LOUNGE AT LONDON HEATHROW

The new lounge reflects the

importance of extending Qatar Airways award-winning service beyond the signature Premium Terminal in Doha. London has long been one of its best-performing routes, so Heathrow was an obvious choice for the first Premium Lounge outside Doha. With the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympic Games taking place this summer, the international spotlight will be on the British capital and the airlines looks forward to the increase in capacity and welcoming more premium travellers on its high demand services to London. The lounge is the latest development in its expanding global network and will enable both loyal customers and those travelling with the airlines for the 1st time, to take full advantage of the high levels of service provided. The Premium Lounge is located at London Heathrow Terminal 4. Qatar Airways operates the award-winning Premium Terminal at Doha International Airport, exclusively for use by passengers travelling in First or Business Class. Following a landmark year in 2011, which saw Qatar Airways introduce 15 new destinations to its network and win the coveted Skytrax Airline of the Year Award, the airline’s new Heathrow lounge is set to become the benchmark for international airport lounges. Designed to resemble a boutique hotel or private member’s club rather than a conventional airport lounge, the Lounge has been created to provide the ultimate in luxury and 5*service. The lounge also includes private shower facilities, with heated floors and mirrors, hotel-style towels and luxury brand toiletries and amenities. Customers can stay connected with free Wi-Fi throughout the lounge, discreet power sockets at every seat and a business centre that includes PCs and printers. The new lounge could not have come at a better time, with the soon to be launched 5th daily flight from Heathrow and the introduction of several exciting new business and leisure destinations in recent months, including Chongqing, Kolkata, as well as the upcoming destinations of Perth, Kigali and Zanzibar.

HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT NAMED WORLD'S BEST AIRPORT AT 2011 AWARDS In a 9

month customer survey that attracted more than 11.38 million participants, Hong Kong International Airport has been named as the Worlds Best Airport by air travellers across the globe. The top ten airports were: 1-Hong Kong International Airport (3rd in 2010), 2-Singapore Changi Airport (1), 3-Incheon International Airport (2), 4-Munich Airport (4), 5-Beijing Capital International Airport (8), 6-Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (7), 7-Zurich Airport (6), 8-Auckland International Airport (9), 9-Kuala Lumpur

International Airport (5), 10-Copenhagen Airport (15). This is the 8th time that HKIA has achieved this success. The ratings for HKIA show some considerable improvements during the last year, particularly in security and immigration processing that served to enhance customer satisfaction levels. Fast and easy access to downtown Hong Kong combined with the bright and airy terminal ambiance, superb shopping facilities to place HKIA in top position. As the winner of Best Airport Dining Award, the food and beverage outlets clearly played their part in this year’s success for HKIA. This year’s survey result yet again points to something of an elite three airports that presently dominate customer satisfaction ratings, and in recent years Skytrax have seen HKIA, Changi and Incheon fighting it out to secure the award of Worlds Best Airport. Incheon scored notable success and recognition of its high quality standards, winning the Staff Service Excellence Award amongst Asian Airports and ranked Best in the World for Terminal Cleanliness standards. Munich Airport ranked 4th in the world and is the repeat winner of the Best Airport Europe title. Beijing Capital International Airport continued its quest of improvement in the customer ratings, moving up to 5th from 8th in 2010. Now ranked as the 2nd largest airport in the world for passenger traffic, BCIA secured the award as Best Airport China in 2011. Elsewhere in China it was the island of Hainan which scored a success, with Haikou Meilan Airport being named winner of the Best Regional Airport in China award. BCIA scored further successes, picking up the award for Best Airport Washrooms. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport secured 6th place in the overall ranking table, as well as taking the award for Best Airport in Western Europe and also achieving top-3 finishes in the International Transit Airport category and Leisure Amenities section. Zurich Airport achieved success in the Best Baggage Delivery award for the 2nd year running, building on the success of 2010. Zurich Airport continues to be a favourite with passengers travelling in Europe achieving a 7th place finish the ranking table for airports across the globe. Auckland International Airport proved a repeat winner as Best Airport Australia/Pacific in 2011.Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) maintained its place in the world’s top-10 airports with a 9th place finish, and a win in the Best Immigration Service category. Copenhagen Airport enters the Top 10 ranking in 2011, from 15th position in 2010. ■



The Independence Square, Qui to, Ecuador

M.I.C.E Capitals of the World

WHY QUITO Quito, the

Capital of Ecuador in South America is unique with an invaluable treasure, magnificent architecture and splendid chur-ches, convents and museums that house amazing works of art. Its intense night life which

specially vibrates in ‘La Mariscal’, heart of the modern city its gastronomy, the quality of its services and its infrastructure make Quito a hot destination. Located on the slopes of the Pichincha volcano, at 2,800m of elevation, it offers never-ending possibilities for sports and adventure close to the city centre. On top of that, the city is in easy reach to all tourist destinations in Ecuador.

The historic downtown area has the amazing baroque church, a grand building built with earth and stone, altars covered with gold leaf, while outside the narrow streets is where history is alive. With dance, live music and the dynamism of the travellers coming from all latitudes. A cosmopolitan neighbourhood offering a chance to stroll, to party, to shop and to enjoy. For centuries, Quito sprawled its way through the ravines of the Pichincha volcano, scattering lookout points on the slopes of the mountain. These bountiful spaces allow you to enjoy and contemplate the unparallel panoramic views of the city and the Avenue of the Volcanoes. Down in the city you can wander in the colourful markets, visit old churches and joyful plazas that greet the festivities and rituals marked by the strength of tradition of the nation. Further a field you will find peaceful rural parishes. Pre-Colombian traces, art galleries, museums, gardens, strolls full of innocence, bohemian retreats, historic places, handicrafts, countryside sanctuaries. The neighbourhoods in Quito seduce novice and experienced travellers alike. If you are not yet convinced to visit Quito, then here are 10 reasons why you should make it your next leisure, business or M.I.C.E destination.

1. Quito has the most valuable, extensive and preserved urban heritage collection of South America.

Quito's old city occupies 400 hectares. Streets that go up and down in fanciful routes to accommodate its orthogonal trace to a varied topography. Local neighbourhoods offer authentic colonial and republican flavours. Hundreds of buildings which keep cultural treasures cover a huge diversity of styles and periods, since the middle 16th century until the early decades of 20th century.

2. Quito exhibits the most amazing expression of religious art of South America. In the city itself the

American baroque style developed and reached its splendour. Historically devote of the Catholic cult, it owns near 30 churches, monasteries, and convents that keep an

invaluable artistic heritage of delicate richness. Quito has witnessed the technical refinement of the “Escuela Quiteña Del Arte” (Quito’s Art School) over 400 years old.

3. Quito opened the path. The World’s Heritage list which

increases every year, includes today 226 cities located in 78 different countries. Everything started in 1978 when Quito and Kracovia were the 1st cities in the world to be declared by UNESCO as World Heritage Site.

4. Quito has regained its Cultural Heritage. Quito took

action to preserve its cultural heritage 40 years ago. Among other achievements, Quito is the only Latin-American heritage city that has solved the informal commerce issue without the use of coercion and force but through social inclusion. This has become the paradigm of Latin American recovery, putting in value to public spaces.

The Virgin, Paneci l lo Hi l l , Qui to

5. Quito is the Latin-American city that invests the most in its cultural heritage. Since 2001, Quito has invested over

EU€166 (UK£139) million. In this period about a thousand interventions of building and art works restoration, publications, academic activities and Quito’s heritage diffusion have been developed. Last year´s investment reached EU€45, (UK£38) million.

6. Quito connects with the World. Quito's airport is served

with modern features, in which important airlines of America and Europe operate with connections to various destinations of those continents. A high technology telecommunication network allows the direct contact with any part of the world.

→ to page 10…


M.I.C.E Capitals of the World

←from page…9

7. Quito is a great host. The

Ecuadorian capital has about 6,000 seats in 5 star hotels, internationally recognised standards for its service and efficiency. Eating well is one of

the city’s passions. An excellent local gastronomy, famous in Latin-America, joins up to an amazing variety of restaurants, offering the best cuisine from all 5 continents.

8. Quito has suitable spaces. In Quito, around 30 major

international encounters are made every year. The city provides wide and comfortable spaces, designed to take both work groups and plenary sessions of hundreds of participants. Also, Quito counts with all the support services for conventions no matter how specialised they are.

9. In 2009 Quito commemorated 200 years of its 1st action towards independence. A festive city that was open

to offer the best of it. An opportunity that showed how much they did every day to protect and preserve their heritage. An environment in which it was possible to see almost unchanged, many of the places where historic events took place.

10. Quito is living Heritage! Quito's people lives intensely

their traditions and daily express their unique and diverse culture. A mixture of customs whose origins are remote pre-Hispanic practices with others, clearly rooted in Spain, the full force of Equinoctial culture, located just at the point where the world is divided into two hemispheres. Quito is ready and waiting for you whether on holiday or for business or events. The Quito Conventions Bureau is also on hand to advise and help organise your next best event. www.quitoconventions.com.ec / www.quito.com.ec■


a marketing & consulting company in tourism, m.i.c.e and exhibitions.

www.bmlinternational.co.uk


part of Laspas Associates

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Sul tanate of Oman, W adi Dayqah Dam.

Middle East

& North

Africa News

YEMEN SETS SIGHTS ON TOURISM AS IT AIMS TO CLEAN UP IMAGE Yemen is

counting on its wealth of historical sites and attractive deals for foreign investors to

kick-start its young tourism sector. The new plan is to help repair the negative image of the country and to attract investments from the GCC region and other countries around the world. Once this negative image is corrected, Yemen's tourism will pick up, just like Oman, which has similar natural resources as Yemen. The Yemeni government must also work to improve the country's infrastructure, which would provide a springboard for investors to start projects. The situation is improving but the message needs to get out to the people around the world that Yemen is safe and there are a lot of opportunities for them to benefit from. Yemen is hoping to attract 1.5 million tourists by 2015 as part of its plan, by targeting emerging markets such as China and other East Asia countries.

TOURISM BOOSTS DUBAI ECONOMY The growth of

Dubai's economy is expected to rise to 4.5% this year, helped by its key pillars of tourism, transport and logistics. Sound management of the emirate's debts was also helping to underpin the economy and the Government would continue to support state-linked companies to meet their needs. Despite all of the challenges the emirate has faced in 2009 and the start of 2010 it has succeeded in encouraging the economy and promoting economic sectors. There is a steady optimism about Dubai's outlook and its ability to meet its debt repayments this year. Growth of 2.4% is expected as Dubai shows resilience to the uncertainty of the global economic climate. In 2011, GDP reached 3%, up from 2.5% the year before. Dubai is striving to recover after the global recession brought to a halt nearly a decade of rapid debt-fuelled economic development. At its peak, yearly growth averaged nearly 18% from 2000-2006. The emirate is hoping that the 3 ‘Ts’ of trade, tourism and transport will provide new growth. Non-oil trade expanded by 24% in the 1st half of last year, and its ports, malls and hotels are busy. But Dubai is still facing a challenge getting to grips with a maturing debt pile estimated at EU€10.60, (UK£8.80) billion this year. Investor confidence was lifted by the repayment of this year's first maturity, EU€378, (UK£315) million owed by the Dubai Holding conglomerate. In an effort to address its debt, it has started a EU€19, (UK£16) billion restructuring of Dubai World's debts. If required, the emirate would increase the size of the Dubai Financial Support Fund, the specially created fund set up to support Dubai World and other state-linked firms.

WORLD'S 2ND TALLEST HOTEL REACHES FOR DUBAI The tallest dedicated hotel building in the world is

set to open later this year in Dubai. The JW Marriott Marquis will consist of 2 towers, both 355m tall, just 26m short of New York’s Empire State Building. It will also be will be the 1st of the Marquis brand of JW Marriotts, the brand which is reserved only for the most iconic properties within the Marriott International portfolio, to be built outside of North America. While dwarfed by the Burj Khalifa, currently Dubai’s and the world’s tallest manmade structure at 830m, it will be the tallest building entirely dedicated to a hotel and will

become the world’s 12th tallest manmade structure once it opens phase 1 in the 4th quarter of 2012. Phase 2 will open in 2014. More than 1,600 guest rooms will be available come 2014, with luxurious presidential suites occupying the 69th and 70th floors. But it will not be the world’s highest hotel. That prize goes to the Ritz-Carlton in Hong Kong, which occupies the top floors of the 488m tall International Commerce Center. The JW Marriott Marquis Dubai will hope to tap into the M.I.C.E. market, a market that in the United States is worth approx

EU€80, (UK£67) billion, according to JW Marriott. The hotel will fill a long identified gap in the market where groups, meetings and conventions of up to 1,000 people can meet, sleep and dine under one roof …Until now Dubai has not had a single location of this size to accommodate this type of group. The hotel will cover 82 floors and will include 1,608 rooms, 2 ballrooms, 24 meeting rooms, 9 restaurants, 5 lounges and entertainment venues and a 1,500sq.m Saray Spa. The Vault Lounge, on the 71st and 72nd floors, will give panoramic views of the city. ■



Gangga Is land, Indonesia

Islands Of

The Worlds

GANGGA ISLAND

A PARADISE FOR DIVERS AND NATURE LOVERS. By

Pamela McCourt Francescone The island of Gangga was named after a prince who, in the mists of time, founded his kingdom on this exotic tropical island in the Celebes Sea,

straddling the Equator and close to the North Sulawesi coast in Indonesia.

What makes Gangga unique is the fact that the surrounded waters have the highest bio-diversity in the world. These pristine depths, with colourful gardens of coral teem with tropical fish, barracuda, turtles and sharks, and are a true paradise for divers. But the island is also a haven of tranquillity for travellers seeking uncontaminated nature, deserted white beaches and a place in which to unwind and relax.

All of which - and more - can be found in the Gangga Island Resort which is just 15 minutes by boat from Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi. This charming resort hotel is a gem set between two oceans, the Pacific and the Indian Ocean, on the southernmost tip of the island. Sitting in tropical gardens, it fronts a long white beach, sparkling blue waters scattered with nearby islands, while low hills, thick with lush tropical vegetation, provide a stunning and natural backdrop.

Gangga Resort , Gangga Is land, Indonesia.

The 30 comfortable and charming rooms are in 15 bungalows, some located under the palms that fringe the kilometre-long beach, others in the gardens and around the large salt-water pool. Each of the bungalows has a private deck with views of the sea or of the surrounding islands, charming bedrooms, spacious bathrooms with showers and

hot water, air conditioning and fans, satellite TV, minibars and tea and coffee-making facilities. From the resort it is possible to enjoy excursions to fishing villages on the island and snorkelling and diving near Gangga and also in the Bunaken National Marine Park, where many of the most spectacular dive sites are to be found.

The staff is smiling and friendly and their aim is to make every day a special one for their guests. The treatments in the spa are inspired by the traditions of the local Minahasa families, and the products used are based on natural extracts which induce physical and spiritual wellbeing and alleviate muscular stress. A relaxing remedy for guests who have spent the day out on diving excursions, but also a perfect way to unwind from the stresses of everyday life and for physical and spiritual wellbeing.

Managers Gaspare and Hanna, who have long years of experience in the hotel business in Denmark and Switzerland, have a well-equipped PADI diving centre - where many of the staff are locals who have been trained as instructors - that caters for divers of all levels, including experts. But they also have a warm welcome for honeymoon couples and beachcombers seeking that perfect paradise in which to be in total symbiosis with the sky, the sea and silence. [email protected] ■



St. Nicolas Chapel , Mykonos Is land, Greece.

Tourism

News

RENT THE ACROPOLIS FOR THE DAY Due to Greece’s ongoing

economic woes, the country has decided to rent out its most prized archaeological sites, including the Acropolis, for commercial ventures.

Greece’s ministry of culture announced that the sites would be available for private hire for as little as EU€1,200, (UK£1,015 a day. It is unclear what constitutes a commercial venture; some reports have stated even demonstrators will be allowed to hire the sites as long as they have the cash. Greece’s historical sites have notoriously been very difficult to gain private access to and have been under the responsibility of the Central Council of Archaeology. However the current economic climate has forced Greece to re-think its stance on the national treasures to generate extra income for the struggling country.

THE RITZ-CARLTON HOTEL ANNOUNCES 1ST HOTEL IN AUSTRIA The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company,

L.L.C., a leader in luxury hospitality, has announced plans to continue its global expansion with the brand’s 1st hotel in the capital city of Vienna. The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna is owned by an investor represented by Verny Capital. Earlier this year, they also completed the acquisition of The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow. The 202-room hotel is located on Schubertring, the historic and famous site of numerous monumental buildings built during 1860-1890. Home of the Vienna State Opera and the Museum of Fine Arts, Vienna is well known for its essential role as a leading European Classical Music Centre. The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna is located in two 19th century palaces which are listed as culturally protected properties in Austria. The location is among the most desirable locations in the city for a luxury hotel. The Ringstrasse, as it is known, encircles the old city of Vienna. Constructed in the late 19th century this prime location, combined with the exemplary service for which The Ritz-Carlton is known, will produce memorable stays for all guests when it opens in the 2nd quarter of 2012. Additional growth in the region for Ritz-Carlton sees them continue to explore other opportunities and destinations in Europe. With the region’s strong travel and tourism industry, we see expansion in Europe, with the right hotels in the right locations, to be an essential part of our future strategy.

POSITIVE RESULTS FOR BELIZE TOURISM The Belize

Tourism Board announced the official statistics in the tourism arrivals for Belize in 2011. The tourism sector has seen an upward trend in tourist arrivals to its our shores. The numbers in tourism are showing a 12% increase in overall arrivals including cruise and overnight arrivals. BTB stated that while the statistics show a slight slip in the overnight sector, improvement is being seen in the cruise sector with the exception of 2008. In addition, 2011 is only the second time

that the overnight arrivals have exceeded 250,000 arrivals making it a record setting year from January to December.

REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES The new services for

Seven Seas Mariner begin on 2nd April; for Seven Seas Voyager on 16th April and for Seven Seas Navigator on 30 May. Clients will receive an upgraded pre-cruise hotel package; priority online reservations on free, unlimited shore excursions; priority online reservations in the specialty restaurants Prime 7 and Signatures; 15 minutes of free phone calls and 60 minutes of free Internet access per suite; 25% off on premium wine and liquor purchases; 10% off pre-or post-cruise hotel or land packages; and 10% off Regent Choice shore excursions. Clients in the posh quarters are

also eligible for suite upgrades at the time of sailing, when available with preference by booking date. Suite perks include use of binoculars, a coffee brewer and a cashmere blanket. Additionally, Regent voyages continue to include a complimentary luxury hotel package with pre-cruise accommodations, including breakfast, airport-hotel and hotel-ship transfers, roundtrip air, open bars, free and unlimited shore excursions, gratuities and taxes.

SURPLUS VACATIONS In 2012 Americans are planning

to give back 226 million unused vacation days causing nearly 50 million of us to become vacation deprived. Financial worries and lack of planning are the main reasons given for not going away. Regardless of the excuse, travel companies are trying to encourage travel by making it easy and possible, with experts on hand to take care of planning, arranging and coordinating all-in-one vacation packages to every corner of the world. All the travellers need to do is go! Once on vacation, a full range of services is available once on-site such as transportation between destinations, a personal concierge arranging sightseeing and excursions in cities worldwide. Now there is no reason to stop taking than now to walk the cobblestone streets of Italy, ride an elephant in Asia and have a pint to celebrate 2012 in a genuine pub in Ireland.



Thames River, Mi l lennium Bridge, London, UK

Tourism

News

2012 SHOWS SLOW IN M.I.C.E. It

seems that Business Travel is expected to be strangled by the 'cost factor' and Olympics this year as companies were looking for ways to avoid the costs of travel. Several

companies are using Skype, video conferencing and email instead of face-to-face meetings and more consolidation within the sector, especially with airlines and organising events. The buying power of many European companies are getting tighter and things look to get tougher in the years to come, unless the old-continent and the UK economic factors will ameliorate and will result with an increase of purchase power. But it seems the ‘good old days’ are a bit far for the time being. London with its Olympic Year sees many companies looking to reduce their events as many suppliers (event organisers) are taking advantage due to the global event that is taking place this summer in the UK’s Capital. From the other hand, Heathrow airport, in an effort to remain a hub airport, is falling way behind rival European Airports and other countries in Asia and Latin America, due to better airport facilities and better international air links. There is a vital need to finalise the 3rd runway and to upgrade all terminals of Heathrow, to place London on the map as the world’s business capital.

PARTNERSHIP TO BOOST ANGLESEY TOURISM Isle

of Anglesey Council is working with tourism industry partners to create a more long-term tourism strategy for the island. The council and partners such as Tourism Partnership North Wales and Welsh Government’s Visit Wales have linked up

The Light House, Is le of Ang lesey, W ales, UK

with Anglesey Tourism Association and private tourism businesses to create a formal partnership for better communication and collaboration, The Anglesey Destination Partnership. One of the first activities being carried out is an in-depth survey of tourism business on the island. The survey asks questions about the nature of tourism businesses on Anglesey and the barriers to further growth. It asks tourism businesses to outline any training or consultancy needs and

seeks to gain opinions on the likely impact of planned developments on the island, including wind turbines. Tourism is already worth EU€275, (UK£233) million to the local economy, and employs over 4,000 people on the island.

CHIBA M.I.C.E. GUIDE FOR MEETING PLANNERS The

Chiba Convention Bureau and International Center(CCB-IC) has released a new CHIBA M.I.C.E. GUIDE for Meeting Planners. This comprehensive guidebook provides not only information about M.I.C.E. in Chiba Prefecture but also about the best support in Japan, offered by the CCB-IC, and the subsidy systems available. CCB-IC released the 1st Meeting Planners Guide in 2008 which was separated by area into 4 books (Makuhari/Chiba, Narita, Kisarazu, and Urayasu). For convenience, the new version combines a wide range of information about the 4 areas into one book. Also, it provides updated sections about M.I.C.E. facilities, accommodation, transportation, attractions, the new Chiba M.I.C.E. Subsidy System, CCB-IC’s support services, and other useful information. The guide also sports an easy to use and attractive new design. The CHIBA M.I.C.E. GUIDE for Meeting Planners will help make your next M.I.C.E. event diverse, affordable, and a great success!

St. REGIS OPENS IN ITALY Starwood Hotels & Resorts

revealed the 1st St. Regis hotel in Florence, Italy last weekend, after a 10-month restoration and conversion project. The hotel, formerly known as the Grand Hotel Florence, under Starwood’s The Luxury Collection portfolio, has been restored to its original historical grandeur. The property was originally designed in 1432 by the architect of the Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore, Filippo Brunelleschi, and was considered to be the first luxury hotel in Florence. Today the hotel features 81 luxurious guest rooms and 19 suites - including a designer suite by the creative director of Bottega Veneta, Tomas Maier. All rooms and suites reflect Florence’s rich history. Most suites are decorated with hand-carved gold leaf plaques and most rooms include themed paintings, furniture and crystal chandeliers. To further honour Florentine culture, every guest room is named after a famous artist, benefactor or nobility from the area. The restoration also includes products and design elements including Florentine and Tuscan hand-painted landscapes in every room. Starwood also brings to The St. Regis Florence the first Iridium Spa Suites in Europe. The 3 spacious Iridium Spa Suites feature white and grey Florentine marble accented with gold and silver walls and custom designed mosaics. Starwood Hotels & Resorts, strategy is to strengthen its brand portfolio in Europe, Africa and the Middle East, by investing more than EU€74.50, (UK£63.10) million to renovate and restore some of its most magnificent hotels. 14 www.tour ismaroundtheworld.co.uk

The Histor ic Quarter, W arsaw Poland

Tourism

News

GREECE MORE ATTRACTIVE THAN EVER Greece has improved

as a holiday destination, according to some reports which suggests that the hardship the country is experiencing does not seem to bother most of

European tourists, who continue to opt for Greece when it comes to vacations. Several travel agents across the old-continent argue that Greece offers the ideal holiday environment for European tourists, stressing that the problems observed are limited to Athens, which only attracts a small part of tourism to Greece compared to the islands and the rest of the mainland. The same tour operators certify that anyone choosing Greece for vacations during this period will enjoy even better service as everyone in Greece realises that tourism is now the country’s best export product and they are determined to safeguard it with their lives. They do however add that there has been no change to last year’s prices, which means the cost of vacationing in Greece is the same as in 2011.

CRUISE INDUSTRY ADOPTS NEW SAFETY POLICY Cruise lines are now required to conduct passenger safety drills before leaving port, under a rule announced by 3 cruise industry associations. The new policy is the 1st to come out of an internal cruise industry review announced in response to the Costa Concordia disaster. At least 16 people died and 16 are still missing following the ship's collision with rocks close to the shore of the Italian island of Giglio. Holding muster drills before leaving port goes beyond the existing legal requirement that passengers participate in the safety drills within 24 hours of embarking. CLIA the largest cruise industry organisation in North America, according to its website the European Cruise Council and the UK-based Passenger Shipping Association all have adopted the new policy, effective immediately. Passengers who arrive after drills are held will receive prompt individual or group safety briefings.

EVERYTHING IS NEW AT RADISSON FARIA LIMA Set

in a privileged location, the Radisson Faria Lima hotel has started 2012 with an extensive retrofit for apartments and common areas. Visiting Sao Paulo and staying at the Faria Lima is a guarantee of a good schedule without wasting time with huge transfers. It is possible to discover a universe of luxury, culture and leisure few steps away from there. Different services are dominant on the exclusive Royal Floor and on the exquisite Premium floors. The comfort includes from the breakfast served in the apartment to the menu of special and different pillows, and also amenities L’occitane, shoe-polishing service, one free clothing-ironing, footbath services in small ofuro, bathrobes and flip-flops to be used inside the apartments. A few blocks away, Iguatemi Shopping, one of the most sophisticated in Brazil, features designer stores. There are also great cinemas and the food

court with excellent cafés and restaurants. For the shopping in an open-air luxury shopping mall, the tip is to visit Rua João Cachoeira (João Cachoeira Street). The Museu da Casa Brasileira (Brazilian Home Museum) is a collection of the history of decoration, while Fundação Cultural Ema Gordon Klabin (Ema Gordon Klabin Culture Foundation) holds a collection of over 1,500 items, among them Portinari and Tarsila do Amaral paintings, tapestries, ceramics and art objects from many eras, such as Pre-Columbian and Classical Antiquity. Nearby the Museu Brasileiro da Escultura (Brazilian Sculpture Museum) and Museu da Imagem e do Som (Sound and Image Museum - MIS) are also worth visiting. After taking a walk and appreciating the cultural life of the city, the tip is to enjoy the good things Rua Amaury offers, with several brand restaurants. From the traditional Brazillian culinary to exquisite international dishes, there are colors and flavors for every taste.

MEXICO ATTRACTS MORE TOURISTS Despite the

warning that announced by the U.S. State Department few weeks ago, due to the increase violence in Mexico, the Mexican Ministry of Tourism, reported 22.67 million international travellers visited Mexico in 2011, an increase of 2% over 2010 totals, and a 5.7% increase over 2009 figures.

Cancun, Mexico.

The 2011 numbers also represent a 0.2% increase over 2008 totals, making 2011 Mexico's best year for international tourism. The record tourism numbers were generated primarily by growth in non-North American markets, including Brazil (with visitor arrivals up 66%), Russia (up 55%), China (up 30%), Colombia (up 23.2%), Italy (up 13%), Australia (up 13%), the United Kingdom (up 11.6%) and France (up 10%). Mexico also increased its market share in the US from 14.1 to 15%, and the country remains the most popular international destination for U.S. tourists. ■



Singapore

ASIAN

WORLD

TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND ORGANISES FAM TRIP TO BOOST HEALTH & WELLNESS VISITORS FROM QATAR The Tourism Authority of

Thailand (TAT) has joined forces with the Royal Thai Embassy in Qatar to invite a group of tour operators and media from Qatar to survey medical tourism facilities in Thailand. The group includes representatives from the Gulf country’s leading travel agencies. The group attended a special briefing on “Medical Tourism in Thailand” by Dr Med Prapa Wongphaet, Chairman of the Committee on Health Service Business, and on “Spa and Wellness in Thailand” by Mr Apichai Jearadisak, Advisor to the Federation of Thai Spa. They also had a chance to meet with representatives of the TAT, Thai Spa Association and Thai Private Hospital Association. They visited Bangkok Hospital, Bumrungrad Hospital and S Medical Spa. They also toured various popular spots of Bangkok and also took a river cruise to Ayutthaya province, thus allowing them to see the post-flood recovery work in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the richest countries in the world, Qatar was the source of 20,280 visitors (by nationality) for Thailand in 2011, up from 16,017 in 2010. Citizens of Qatar can obtain visa-free entry into Thailand. As of February 2012, there are 21 direct scheduled flights per week between Thailand and Qatar being operated by Qatar Airways. The Middle East in general and GCC countries in particular, are very important sources of visitor arrivals for Thailand. Both local citizens and expatriates in these countries have high purchasing power, long average length of stay and enjoy the monsoon season. Thailand also has a good image in the Gulf countries for its good quality of products, excellent service standards and the warm traditional hospitality of the Thai people. Thailand boasts some of the world’s best health and wellness centres offering high standards of both preventive and curative treatment. A pioneer in the field of medical tourism in Asia, Thailand receives more than a million foreign patients annually seeking treatment at 956 public and 309 private hospitals,16 of which are JCI accredited (as of 2011), with another 17 awaiting accreditation.

SRI LANKA SEAPLANE SERVICE IMPROVES ACCESS Sri Lanka is full of fabulous luxury boutique hotels, gorgeous natural scenery, delicious cuisine and friendly, charming people. However, once your flight lands, it's not very easy to get around. Roads are narrow and windy, the driving crazy and maps are confusing and often incorrect. It can also be time-consuming, with the average drive time from Colombo Airport to the tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya at about 6 hours. It is now possible to get to your final destination much quicker, with a new fleet of seaplanes operating flights to

popular destinations such as Kandy, Kog-gala, Nuwara Eliya, and Dikwella on a daily basis, and to Bentota 3 times a week. Plans to extend the service to Jafna and surfing hotspot Arugam Bay on the east coast are currently in

Fort Gal le, Sr i Lanka

development as well. Sri Lanka, which has only recently opened up as a tourist destination after the end of a 25 year civil war has seen remarkable growth in the luxury tourism sector, with luxury boutique properties finding their way onto its picturesque shores and lush mountains over the past few years, and big-name properties set to open in the coming years, including Anantara in Bentota, and Shangri-La hotels in Hambantota (2013) and Colombo (2014).

EUROPE TOURISM MARKET CONTINUES TO RISE Recently the Tourism Bureaus of 35 countries in Europe, together with the European Tourist Board Association and the European Commission in Beijing launched the ‘Destination Europe’ promotion, which marks the European countries consensus that within the next few years, China will become the one of the most important markets for Europe. The European Tourism Alliance confirmed that a total of 3.8 million Chinese people travelled to Europe, accounting for 24% of all outbound trips. Figures for this year are expected to increase hugely making China a huge market potential, hence the European Tourist Board Association decided to focus on China to become one of the most important market in the new strategy. With more Chinese travellers, its is now the second and third cities of China which pose a grow market, while the port cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou as the core of this spending habits are gradually radiating to the surrounding cities. Europe tourist arrivals in 2010 compared with 2009, achieved a 90% growth. Tianjin, Dalian, Changchun, Harbin, Shijiazhuang and other places saw the number of visitors also significantly increase. In addition, in the process of rising enthusiasm of Chinese tourists to Europe, tourism product diversification requirements have become even more intense, making the destinations even more attractive to Chinese tourists. 16 www.tour ismaroundtheworld.co.uk

Open Air Restaurant, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

ASIAN

WORLD

SUNTEC SEES RECORD YEAR & UPCOMING MODERNISATION Suntec Singapore International Convention & Exhibition Centre ended 2011 with a new record. The venue successfully executed and delivered

an unprecedented total of 1,600 events and welcomed 7.1 million guests through its doors; marking a 5% increase in number of events held and a 4% increase in visitorship as compared to the same period in 2010. The venue also recorded high total occupancy rates ranging between 90%-98% for the months of June, July, October and November 2011. In the last quarter of 2011, Suntec Singapore announced a €EU109, (UK£90) million modernisation programme for the venue that will commence in mid-2012.

THE VENETIAN MACAO OFFERS ENTERTAINMENT AND MEETING PACKAGE The Venetian Macao-Resort-

Hotel has launched a superb-value Entertainment and Meeting Package; ensuring delegates have an unforgettable experience during their event. From now until end of May 2012, meeting groups who book the Entertainment and Meeting Package with a minimum of 20 people and 10 suite nights at the hotel can enjoy a complimentary 30-minute StreetmosphereTM performance during their event.

The Venet ian Macao Resort , Macao, China.

The special Entertainment and Meeting package is valid for meetings held by 31 December 2012. The premium meeting facilities of The Venetian Macao are supported by its wealth of expertise and experience in the meetings industry, along with unrivalled entertainment options, including its 150-strong team of entertainers. Streetmosphere performers, including opera singers, magicians, jugglers, singing gondoliers and more, entertain guests at any moment throughout the day from opening ceremonies to coffee breaks to gala dinners.

THE 'MILLIONAIRE'S TOUR' OF MYANMAR With the

emergence of Myanmar onto the global tourism map, more and more companies want to take their share of the expected increase in tourism. Among these is Khiri Travel, which has just launched a ‘Millionaire's Tour’ of Central Myanmar. The 4-

day, 3-night trip from Bangkok includes travel in a 6x-seat Cessna Citation CJ3 private jet. The trip is for high-end clients who want to be treated like millionaires and have an active holiday of cultural insights. For a group of 6, the trip costs EU€6,330, (UK£5,360) per person. If 4 passengers travel, the fee is EU€8,452, (UK£7,156) per head. If it's just 2 passengers, the fee is EU€16,383 (UK£13,871) per person. Prices include visa on arrival, transfers, deluxe accommodation and most meals. The trip itinerary features guided bike rides in Bagan, a trip to Inle Lake, and interactions with elephants. Khiri is not the 1st to cater to luxury travellers looking for adventure in Myanmar. Some excellent travel companies from the region also offer unique high-end tours of Myanmar, including balloon safaris over Bagan and luxury river cruises on the Irawaddy river. Myanmar's tourism industry is definitely ready for growth. The Pacific Asia Travel Association reported that the country attracted just 400,000 international visitors in 2011, despite being Southeast Asia's 2nd largest country after Indonesia. Neighboring Thailand brought in more than 16 million visitors in 2011 as a comparison.

6 UNUSUAL EUROPEAN DESTINATIONS SOUGHT BY CHINESE TOURISTS Nearly 4 million Chinese

travelled to Europe in 2011, and the number is expected to grow over the next few years. A pattern is emerging of some interesting destinations being targeted by Chinese tourists including; Marx's birthplace in Trier, Germany; this historic city is the birthplace of Karl Marx, founder of Marxism. Marx still enjoys heroic status in China and Chinese tourist groups have been a common sight in Trier for the past decade. Legends of communism city, Montargis, France; wealthy Chinese tourists flock to this small city to pay homage to their former communist leaders. Poetic tree in Cambridge, England; more precisely, it is a certain willow tree at King's College. The tree was mentioned by Chinese New Moon poet Xu Zhimo in his poem ‘On Leaving Cambridge,’ written when he was about to leave the university after 2 years’ study in 1920s. A stone carved with the 1st and last lines of the poem in Chinese was placed in King’s College in 2008. Other cities pinpointed by Chinese tourists include Bonn, Germany, where Chinese trace the life of the greatest musician in their hearts, Ludwig van Beethoven; and Verona in Italy, which many Chinese regard as the most romantic city as it is the ‘hometown’ of Romeo and Juliet. ■



Berl in, Germany

Germany

News

WORLD-CLASS MEDICAL TOURISM IN GERMANY Luxury

hotel Kameha Grand Bonn has teamed up with the University Hospital Bonn in Germany to offer patients a place to prepare for and

recover from selected medical treatments while being able to take full advantage of the 5 star facilities of the hotel. The award-winning lifestyle hotel, part of Leading Hotels of the World, is renowned for its excellent customer service and hopes to capitalise on the huge demand for tourism. Germany is one of the world leaders in medical tourism due to its advanced medical technology and the number of hospitals per capita, which exceeds that of USA by more double, resulting in shorter waiting lists.

The Kameha Grand Bonn has created a safe, inviting and visually beautiful environment that includes several themed-suites, an ESPA-run spa and a heated infinity pool to help relax patients both before and after surgery. The hotel is located in the former German capital Bonn, nestled between the Siebengebirge Mountains and the River Rhine. It has excellent transport links and is only a short distance from the University Hospital Bonn.

A GOOD START FOR 2012 Airline ticket sales and

package holiday bookings were the main growth trends last month, the monthly survey by the TATS organisation showed. The 14.2% sales rise in the strongest booking month came on top of good comparative figures for January 2011. Revenues from airline ticket sales soared by 21%. This reflects better demand for business travel, above all. Leisure travel sales increased by nearly 4%. This is likely to reflect higher bookings for smaller tour operators since both TUI Travel and Thomas Cook have lower bookings for the summer according to their recent results.

GERMAN TOUR OPERATOR CLOSER COOPERATION WITH TURKISH HOTELIERS German tour operator FTI is

seeking closer cooperation with hoteliers in Turkey to secure its strong growth in the destination. FTI told an audience of some 400 hoteliers, business partners and officials in Antalya, that it is open for partnerships such as joint ventures or the development of joint hotel concepts. In Turkey, the company wants to go in a new direction. Talks are already taking place for 2-5 projects that could be set up this year

FTI has grown strongly in Turkey in recent years and has increased volumes fivefold within just 5 years. In 2011, the company’s Turkey customer numbers increased by 15% to 575,000. This would make it the 3rd largest German tour operator to Turkey behind Thomas Cook/Öger Tours and TUI. The winter season plays a strong role with about 35% of FTI’s Turkey revenues generated between November and April. This makes FTI into the biggest tour operator for Turkey holidays in the winter season. This winter FTI has generated double-digit growth for Turkey. The event was held to celebrate Meeting Point’s acquisition of a majority stake in IQ Travel last December.

VIETNAM’S BIGGEST LUXURY TOUR OPERATOR TO ATTRACT LUXURY GERMAN TRAVELLERSThe

Luxury Travel Company has revamped its website for Germany (www.luxurytravels.de ), has launched brochures and attends ITB Berlin 2012 in their campaign to attract luxury German travellers to Vietnam. Luxury Travel Ltd is a long established Asian specialist in luxury privately guided and fully bespoke holidays in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Thailand. According to recent figures for 2012, 39% of German tourists want sun and beach for their vacation, 31% want a relaxing holiday, 22% like nature trips as their preferred types of holidays, 22% travel with family, 16% like adventure, 14% like active holidays, 8% want fun and 8% like winter holidays and 4% like winter and warm for their vacation. Vietnam has all of these to offer to German tourists. Vietnam in particular increasingly is being recognised as a destination for high-end global tourists, especially those coming from Western European countries with direct flights, from France, the UK, and Germany. For German tourists, Vietnam is a magnet due to the history link and strategic partnership between the two countries. Vietnam now has world class hotels and resorts, beaches and cuisine, in addition to its natural beauty, rich history and traditional culture. The country receives 100,000 German tourists yearly, and the number of tourists increases year after year. Today’s German luxury travellers want to be entertained and stimulated, rather than simply pampered, and Vietnam offers a magical mix of tropical beaches, post-colonial charm, a string of world heritage sites, stunning inland scenery, a world-renowned cuisine and a home-grown flair for hospitality. Upscale tours today must offer ‘off -the-beaten-track’ experiences, yet with efficiency, seamless travel, value for money and a return on personal values. Many may even opt for staying in less luxurious hotels on short trips which offer a slice of local culture, a splash of adventure, and authentic experiences. The new slogan of Vietnam tourism ‘Timeless Charm,’ was created with an aim to attract long haul travellers from Germany and elsewhere, who wish to experience its defining characteristics: Thrills, nature, heritage, festival, pristine, enjoyment, scenery and essence. ■ 18 www.tour ismaroundtheworld.co.uk

German Travel Show, London, UK

Exhibitions

News

THE 7TH M.I.C.E. TRAVEL EXPO (14-17 JUN 2012) HONG KONG, CHINA The

synergistic co-location since 2006 resulted in four times more corporate & M.I.C.E.

visitors! Of the 3000 corporate & M.I.C.E. visitors of ITE & M.I.C.E., 11% came from banking, finance and insurance; 14% from training, education and professional services; and 13% from PR, advertising agencies and the event industries etc. Respectively, 86% seek destination info, 55% looking for venue, and 25% for special offers, reflecting outbound M.I.C.E. often involve choice of destinations before venues.

The co-location means much more on offer to visitors. In ITE & M.I.C.E. are around 40 official / theme pavilions, some 650 exhibitors from some 55 countries and regions with over 80% of the exhibitors from outside Hong Kong. Besides M.I.C.E. are themes like Cruise, Wellness & Medical Tourism, Honeymooning and Overseas Wedding, and various deluxe travel products. The second trade day is designated M.I.C.E./Corporate Travel Day with related seminars drawing over 1000 pre-registrations.

ITE & M.I.C.E. is supported by both tourism and event industry associations. For latest outbound info of Hong Kong and mainland China, exhibiting and Business Matching to meet hosted buyers, visiting and joining Hosted Buyer Program, please contact organizer, TKS, at [email protected] or visit the Expo’s website: www.itehk.com for more details.

30 YEARS ANNIVERSARY OF GSAR MARKETING The Madrid based international tourism and travel marketing and communication company, GSAR Marketing, is celebrating its 30th anniversary. GSAR Marketing was founded in 1982 as a spinoff of Convenco Incentive Solutions, Spain’s 1st incentive travel house and events agency, in business since 1974. With accounts such as: American Airlines, Braniff, Frontier Airlines, Copa, TACA, Othon Hoteis, Pacific Hotels, Saddlebrook Resort and more, the company has arranged and produced workshops, road shows, seminars and fam tours in 67 cities of 50 countries in Europe, North Africa and the Americas. GSAR has also produces B2B travel trade markets since 1996: MITM Euromed and MITM Americas aimed at the M.I.C.E market sector and CULTOUR aimed at the heritage and cultural travel sector; a total of 35 editions to date. As of 2012, GSAR Marketing continues to be active in the business, representing, marketing and P.R. tourism

offices, convention and visitors bureaus, airlines, hotels and travel and tourism companies and entities in general.

IMPRESSIVE TOURNOUT AT 20th ANNIVERSARY AIME At the 20th anniversary edition of Asia-Pacific Incentives

& Meetings Expo (AIME) 2012 the event saw more quality Hosted Buyers taking part in Pre Scheduled Appointments (PSAs) with exhibitors than in 2011. 500 Hosted Buyers from 27 countries attended AIME, which is an increase of 16.5% compared to 2011. Furthermore, 779 exhibitors were present at the show and pre-audited figures show that an impressive 3,384 visitors attended over the 2 days. 51% of Hosted Buyers and 206 exhibitors were attending AIME for the first time, with these groups conducting 12,903 PSAs, a 15.8% increase from 2011. Over 2,000 attendees were at the Official Welcome Reception on the Monday night at the Melbourne Pavilion in Flemington, hosted by the Melbourne Convention + Visitors Bureau (MCVB), which certainly set the tone for the whole show. In addition, the IBTM Global Industry Research preliminary findings for Asia-Pacific were announced at the Business Events Forum, revealing that 83% of buyers in the region are choosing to stay within Asia-Pacific to hold their events and meetings, which supports the idea that the area is holding strong in the industry. AIME 2013 will be from 19-20 March.

FULLY SOLD IT&CM CHINA 2012 PRESENTS A 30% LARGER SHOWCASE Booth sales for IT&CM

China 2012 have concluded with the event boasting a 30% larger M.I.C.E exhibition showcase. More than 300 international and Chinese exhibiting companies will fill exhibition space amounting to over 6,000sqm. The larger

exhibition showcase has been attributed primarily to new participants. Some 50 new international and domestic exhibiting companies, covering over 25% of the total IT&CM China 2012 showcase, will offer buyers fresh procurement opportunities. First-time exhibitors include: 10 corporate brands: Esplanade Hotel Fremantle, Nagaworld Hotel, ClubMed, HNA Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels Group, Shangri-La Hotels, Xiamen C&D International Travel Service, The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas, Bali, Taipei World Trade Centre and Dusit International. Five destinations: Ningbo Tourism Administration, Government of Dubai, Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Jeju Convention & Visitor Bureau, Switzerland Tourism and Geneva Convention Bureau and Turkish Embassy Culture and Information Section.



BTL Show 2012, Lisbon, Portugal .

Exhibitions

News

Making its debut at IT&CM China 2012 in a big way is global hotel brand Inter-Continental Hotels Group (IHG). In addition to its 120sqm space - the largest corporate booth

at the event, the chain is also offering its InterContinental Shanghai Expo property as one of the Official Hotels of IT&CM China 2012.

The luxury hotel will also be the host venue for 2 networking events for buyers and media - a luncheon hosted by Meetings and Exhibitions Hong Kong - a division of Hong Kong Tourism Board and a dinner hosted by Seoul Tourism Organisation. The event also sees an increase in returning exhibitors’ booth sizes on both, the domestic and international front. While China’s own

Sanya Tourism Bureau have affirmed their confidence in the event with a 20% increase in their destination pavilion, other returning destinations such as Seoul are also seeing the value of investing in a dedicated pavilion of their own. For the 1st time Seoul is participating at IT&CM China 2012 with a dedicated 84sqm pavilion. They have previously exhibited within the Korea pavilion. In addition, other returning exhibitors include Anantara Resorts and Spa, Asian Trail, China Eastern, CITS & American Express, Furama Hotel Dalian, Gloria Hotels & Resorts, Grand Metro Park Hotels, Hangzhou Tourism Promotion Center, Meetings and Exhibitions Hong Kong - a division of Hong Kong Tourism Board, Info Salons, Japan National Tourism Organisation, JinJiang International Hotel Management, Kempinski Hotels, Korea Tourism Organisation, Langham Hotels International, Marco Polo Hotels, Macau Government Tourist Office, Master Card Asia Pacific, Melia Hotels International, Millennium & Copthorne Hotels, Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau, Silversea Cruises, Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau and Wuzhen Tourism.

The confidence of both new and returning exhibitors to IT&CM China 2012 reaffirms IT&CM China as the leading international M.I.C.E event in China - a choice business platform for both international and Chinese industry players to seek outbound, inbound and domestic opportunities. CITS’ coming on board as co-organiser has been a big draw for local and international participation alike.

The show’s expansion in terms of numbers and its global footprint is mirrored in its buyer delegation, as IT&CM China 2012 draws participating interest from a host of new countries. International Buyer registrations have crossed the 400 mark, with representation from first-time participating countries, Czech Republic, Denmark and Morocco.

Remarked Mr. Darren Ng, Managing Director of TTG Asia Media, “IT&CM China 2012 marks a lot of firsts for us. It is the first year of our strategic alliance with CITS, a partnership we are very excited about. We look forward to working with them and long-time partners MP International to make this event truly world class. This is also the first year that the event will be held at Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Center. We are confident that these new elements will go a long way to elevate the event for all participants and stakeholders.”

With a new venue, IT&CM China 2012 will be supported by a fresh line-up of 4 official hotels; Gran Melia Shanghai, InterContinental Shanghai Expo, Marriott Shanghai Luwan and Sheraton Shanghai Hotel and Residences, Pudong, all conveniently located at close proximity to the exhibition venue and will serve as the accommodation for all hosted buyers and media.

In addition, IT&CM China’s strategic alliances with leading international and local M.I.C.E organisations - such as Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration (SMTA), Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE), Australian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE), Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) and International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) - to deliver educational and networking content, will contribute to a compelling programme. IT&CM China is proud to once again be a part of the Shanghai Business Events Week’s stellar line-up of industry business, education and networking events that will take place from 16 to 19 April 2012.

IT&CM China 2012 can also count on its international and domestic affiliation with 36 reputed M.I.C.E publications that promote the event for a whole year including pre-, on-site and post-event publicity, thus providing the show’s participants with invaluable exposure. In addition to these media affiliates, more than 100 international and local media are expected to attend, providing coverage on IT&CM China 2012. ■



March 2012 edition

Documents

Transcript of March 2012 edition