Archive for September, 2010

British Airways Announces Continual Growth of its London Gatwick Network

CRAWLEY, England, September 30, 2010 /PRNewswire/ — British Airways has opened up its Gatwick gateway with a growing route network that has firmly established it as the airport’s leading long haul carrier.

As the airline celebrates the first anniversary of the popular thrice-weekly Sharm el Sheikh service, it is getting ready to launch a new twice-weekly service to Cancun ( http://www.britishairways.com/travel/holidays-in-cancun/public/en_gb) in November.

With other new routes launched in the past year, including Male, in the Maldives, Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic and Montego Bay in Jamaica, British Airways will operate flights to 25 domestic and European destinations and 16 long haul destinations from Gatwick this winter.

The most popular long haul destinations for families are Orlando and Tampa in Florida. This follows the recent announcement of the increased frequency of flights to Tampa, starting on March 27, 2011. Other hotspots for holidays include the Dominican Republic, holidays in the Maldives (http://www.britishairways.com/travel/holidays-in-maldives/public/en_gb) and Cancun. With increased frequency to St Kitts, Grenada, Barbados and Bermuda in summer 2010 and further increases to flights to Barbados, Antigua, St Lucia and Cancun, British Airways officially now offers more seats to the Caribbean from the UK than any other carrier.

With its substantial short haul programme British Airways has established itself as a favourite for city breaks in Europe, offering Euro Traveller, the Economy cabin for short haul flights, and Club Europe, BA’s Business Class cabin. Popular choices from Gatwick include flights to Amsterdam, Rome and Faro. For the summer months, holidays in Dubrovnik (http://www.britishairways.com/travel/dubrovnik/public/en_gb) are also an option.

Flights to Sharm el Sheikh and other new long haul routes are operated by Boeing 777 aircraft with a three-class configuration: World Traveller, World Traveller Plus and Club World.

British Airways continues an excellent punctuality performance at Gatwick Airport with the airport achieving the best monthly punctuality figures British Airways has ever recorded in March.

In June, British Airways was the most punctual major carrier at Gatwick, with 87 per cent of short haul and domestic flights departing on time and 86 per cent of international flights on time. Sharm el Sheikh was the second most punctual route from Gatwick during the summer.

Now Executive Club iPhone users on short haul flights can also use the new Mobile Boarding Passes on their phones – introduced at Gatwick earlier this month – which can be scanned at check-in to speed up and enhance the boarding process.

In addition, customers using Android and Blackberry devices will now be able to benefit from a version of the British Airways App.

The airport experience is further enhanced as British Airways’ customers will benefit from the GBP900 million investment by Gatwick Airport to upgrade and modernise the North and South Terminals.

Alan Peever, British Airways general manager Gatwick said: “In a year when we have seen record punctuality, even in extreme operating conditions, passengers have more reasons than ever to fly with British Airways from Gatwick.

“Not only do we offer excellent punctuality and customer service, we now have an excellent route network, with plenty of choice and a flexible schedule allowing passengers to connect from many parts of the UK.”

Green Globe University Announces New Sustainability Training for Travel and Tourism Professionals

ICS SIGNS ASSOCIATION MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT WITH ISDE

International Conference Services Ltd. (ICS), a conference and association management company headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, is excited to announce that effective October 1, 2010, ICS will assume general management operations on behalf of the International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus (ISDE).

After answering an open request for proposal, ICS emerged as the top competitor against an international collection of PCOs and AMCs. After two formal presentations to the ISDE Executive and a quick rally of contractual negotiations, it was decided that ICS will also assist with the planning and execution of the 14th and 15th World Congress of the ISDE to be held in 2014 and 2016 respectively.

Initial goals of the partnership include revisiting the branding and membership strategy for ISDE. Currently, efforts at increasing membership are focused on broadening representation among a variety of specialties interested in esophageal diseases. Notable developments include on-line journal access, young investigator awards, and support services for lay people.

The management partnership with ICS is designed to grow overall membership and financial stability, enabling the ISDE to expand their educational and research opportunities.

The ISDE is committed to representing physicians of all specialties working with diseases of the esophagus and is devoted to involving young physicians in the workings of the society. A new benefit for physicians in training is a substantially reduced entry-level membership fee that includes electronic access to Diseases of the Esophagus, the premier journal devoted to esophageal disorders.

Mark Ferguson, MD, ISDE President

ICS is proud to be working with an association that shares the core values of ICS, boasts an excellent management team and has an excellent potential for growth.

Mathias Posch, ICS President

The ISDE was founded in 1979 by Professor Komei Nakayama in Tokyo in order to contribute to the field of Diseases of the Esophagus internationally, drawing upon the expertise that had been built up in this field both in Japan and in other countries. Please visit www.isde.net for information on the society and membership.

Established in 1976, ICS has a great track record in organizing events both small and large in its headquarters city of Vancouver, Canada and around the world. Beyond financial goals, ICS core values are ideas & innovation, community involvement, green initiatives and boutique-style service. To find out how “We’re redefining conference management” visit: www.icsevents.com

A Webinar on Learning Transformation by Tata Interactive in Partnership With Maersk Line

MUMBAI, India, September 30, 2010 /PRNewswire/ — Global learning leader, Tata Interactive Systems (TIS) to partner with shipping major Maersk Line, to conduct a Webinar on “Enabling Business Success through Learning Transformation” at Maersk.

In the current business context of urgency of talent creation and effectiveness of the Learning & Development function, it has become increasingly critical for organizations to review their learning approach to better meet the challenges they face in their endeavors.

Tata Interactive Systems has enabled organizational initiatives at several leading global companies in the Logistics, Aviation, Transportation, and Hospitality space over its 20-year-long history as a global pioneer in learning solutions. TIS has had a long-standing relationship with shipping majors such as Maersk Line, and the two leaders in their respective fields have collaborated on business-critical initiatives with TIS lending its extensive learning expertise to develop innovative solutions for Maersk Line.

Following on the success of the last Webinar on “Getting Serious: Games for Corporate Training” early this year, which saw nearly 400 senior executives participate and exchange ideas and strategies, Tata Interactive Systems announced plans to host the next Webinar in partnership with leading shipping company, Maersk Line.

According to Saurabh Mittal, Head – Logistics, Aviation, Transportation, and Hospitality at TIS, “Tata Interactive Systems innovative learning solutions have played a key role in enabling key corporate initiatives at more than 60 Fortune 500 companies… this Webinar is a forum for us to share our experience as a global leader with other corporations.

“Maersk Line focuses a great deal on people development, which stems from the importance of people to the success of our business. This focus has been the trigger for our learning transformation initiatives. Through this Webinar, we aim to share the ups and downs of our journey with other organizations.”

The webinar will be held on 12 October 2010 at 7 pm CET (10 am PT). More information about the event as well as registration details are available at http://www.trainingindustry.com/webinars/learning-transformation-enabling-business-success.aspx.

Solaris Tallinn to host European Film Awards 2010

This December, shortly after turning just a year old, the Nordic’s most modern multifunctional event hall Solaris Tallinn will have the honour of hosting the prestigious European Film Awards 2010.

Hundreds of film industry professionals all over Europe, including highly recognised European filmmakers and film stars will be strolling the red carpet of the European Film Awards 2010 ceremony on 4^th of December, taking place on in the high-tech conference centre and performance hall in Tallinn, Estonia. The annual highlight event of the European film society and widely anticipated television show will be broadcast across 50 countries and covered by close to 300 journalists across Europe, as the European Film Academy presents its acknowledgements for the best works in European cinema in 2010.

According to Peeter Rebane, the producer of the European Film Awards 2010 in Tallinn, the opportunity of hosting and co-organising an event of such international prominence is a great chance to promote Tallinn as an event destination and as European Capital of Culture in 2011. “We are extremely excited about the European Film Awards ceremony taking place in Tallinn, as it will be the first high profile international society event to ever take place in Estonia, and the next major television show here since the Eurovision Song Contest in 2002,” said Rebane. “Solaris Tallinn is the perfect venue for staging an event of this scale, and not only in terms of Estonia.

Having operated for only a year, it is equipped with the latest and best video, light and sound solutions, unlike in any other performance hall in the Nordic region. Beside providing excellent technical precision and capacity, the spectacular hall has proven perfect for demanding social functions, making sure to leave a memorable impression on both the guests of the evening, and the people in front of the TV-screens,” he added.

In addition to instantly becoming the priority venue in Tallinn for a wide range of events and performances, Solaris Tallinn was the first to introduce the world-class possibilities for hosting major international conferences and meetings in Tallinn. Opened in October 2009, the state-of-the-art Solaris Tallinn conference centre is the largest modern meeting facility in Estonia, accommodating up to 1830 delegates and offering every convenience for contemporary conferencing, including having the best of Tallinn – sights of the Medieval Old Town, best hotels and restaurants – close at hand.

European Film Awards are biennially taking place in Berlin and every other year elsewhere. The ceremony in Tallinn at Solaris Tallinn in December 2010 will start off the European Capital of Culture event programme in Tallinn in 2011.

The launch and marketing of Solaris Tallinn was co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund. The project was supported by the tourism marketing support program of Enterprise Estonia, the mission of which is to promote knowledge about Estonia as a travel destination on international target markets.

Finland Convention Bureau’s activities to transfer to Finnish Tourist Board

The activities of Finland Convention Bureau (FCB), the national organisation that promotes Finland as a destination for international congresses and corporate events, will transfer to the Finnish Tourist Board as of 1 January 2011. The decision was taken at a statutory meeting of FCB in Helsinki.

The aim is to clarify FCB’s activities in accordance with the wishes of its members. The new arrangement also complies with the model adopted by most European countries, whose national convention bureaus are backed up by a national organisation similar to the Finnish Tourist Board.

Conventions are a significant source of income

According to the Finnish Tourist Board, activities that support the meetings industry will continue to be an important focus area for promoting Finland. Over the past twenty years Finland has established a position as one of the top 20 congress destinations in the world. Each year international association meetings generate over 100 million euros of tourism income for Finland. One of the first national convention bureaus in Europe, FCB has successfully marketed Finland since 1974.

In line with international practice, Finland Convention Bureau will continue as the marketing name under which meetings industry operations will be concentrated. FCB will also continue to operate as an association whose board will also serve as the meetings industry marketing committee within the Finnish Tourist Board. FCB will administrate the association’s resources and organising activities such as training and networking events.

FCB’s four full-time employees will transfer to the Finnish Tourist Board as long-service employees on 1 January 2011. Further decisions about human resources and key positions within the Finnish Tourist Board will be taken in early 2011.

26-29 October XV International conference and exhibition “Infotrans” (St. Petersburg).

Business Dialogue company with the CNews Magazine support holds anniversary conference and exhibition on information technology in rail transport “Infotrans 2010″. General partner is Russian Railways company.

During the conference an exhibition of industry developments “Infotrans-2010″will be organized, which will showcase the latest information and telecommunication technologies, systems, management of goods and passengers, an IT solutions to ensure transport safety, an advanced navigation and communication for the transport industry, dispatch systems and motion control, used for rail transport.

The conference will work 3 days, its work will be attended by over 500 professionals.

For further details and reports from previous events, visit the forum’s website at www.intransforum.ru.

Holidaymakers on the Money With Thomas Cook’s Foreign Exchange Services

PETERBOROUGH, England, September 30, 2010 /PRNewswire/ — Following significant popularity and take-up of Thomas Cook’s recently launched foreign exchange mobile app and website (whatstherate.co.uk), the travel expert who offers foreign money services as well as holidays (http://www.thomascook.com/) worldwide, has listened to customer feedback and is already producing an upgraded version.

In just two days, the app hit the number one spot on the iPhone App Store’s free finance apps chart and peaked at 58 in the overall chart of all free apps. Since its launch on 9th September, more than 25,000 people have downloaded the free app.

The success of the app follows news that another of Thomas Cook’s foreign exchange products, the Cash Passport(TM) prepaid currency card, has also seen a successful summer with more than 100,000 Cash Passport cards being sold from just May to August. This means that Thomas Cook outsold its nearest travel rival over the summer by nearly three to one, selling nearly three Cash Passport cards every minute of the working day. Exclusive rates for currency loaded on to the Cash Passport are available if pre-ordered through the app.

Melanie Whitehouse, Thomas Cook’s Financial Services Director, UK & Ireland, said, “This summer has been a turning point for the way our customers use currency and travel technology and we’re absolutely thrilled with the popularity of both our foreign exchange mobile app and our Cash Passport prepaid currency card.

“The take-up of our app has demonstrated that there’s clearly a demand for the useful functions on it, which help travellers to make sure they get the best rates on their foreign exchange. By listening to what our customers are telling us about the app, we’re improving it to make it even easier to use.

“When it comes to prepaid currency cards, as the world’s biggest selling retailer of the Cash Passport, our customers know and trust us to provide them with convenient foreign exchange options that can be used abroad safely and securely.”

Thomas Cook’s mobile app and website compare Euro and US Dollar rates against the Post Office and M&S, and can be used to reserve currency, Cash Passport MasterCard(R) prepaid currency cards and travellers cheques at exclusive rates to all travellers going on holidays abroad.

Exchange rate trends for the past 14 days on over 80 currencies can be checked and a RateWatch can be set so users receive an automatic email alert if the exchange rate on the chosen currency hits the upper or lower limit that has been pre-selected.

Thomas Cook’s Cash Passport is accepted like other payment cards at shops, restaurants, hotels and millions of ATMs worldwide that display the MasterCard(R) Acceptance Mark. It is available in seven currencies (Euros, US, Australian, New Zealand and Canadian Dollars, South African Rand and British Pounds) and can be loaded and topped-up with currency in store, via internet banking or by phone.

An Additional Cash Passport card is available, which can be used by couples travelling abroad for added spending flexibility. It is also ideal for teenagers going on school or college trips – they take the Additional Card loaded with spending money on their trip, whilst the parent keeps the main Card at home to top-up if needed. For more information visit http://www.thomascookmoney.com

Hungary attracts the tourists by low prices

Hungary expects a great increase of tourist flow from Russia. The demand becomes even and the market recovers after crisis. Besides, it’s rather easy to apply for Hungarian visa. And finally, Hungary can be called one of the most inexpensive European destinations.

Heading for the increase of number of foreign tourists, the Embassy of Hungary in Russia made some concessions to the process of visa issuance. For example, the Embassy has a practice of issuance multiply visas for the valid period from 6 months up to one year. In fact to get Hungarian visa is rather simple, the number of refusals amounts just to 0.6% of all the issued visas. About 48-50 thousand visas were issued in 2008 and about 42 thousand in 2009. Now the Embassy has already noted the increase of tourist flow from Russia for 20-25% in comparison with last year. source: atorus.ru

Moscow city authorities dream of foreign tourists

Moscow city authorities developed a new concept of tourism in Moscow for 2011-2020 with the increase of number of the tourists from 5 million in 2011 up to 10 million by 2020. Such information was received from Grigoriy Antyufeev, the Head of Committee for Tourism of Moscow city.

According to Mr. Antyufeev, more than20 hotels were placed in operation in 2009. Now the financing has been restored, so the rates of the development of infrastructure will be increased. It’s planning that the realization of the new concept will allow the city to receive revenues up to 10 billion USD per year. At the same time one shouldn’t expect a dramatic fall of the prices for the hotels. “The price policy will be changed, but I don’t think, that dramatic drop in prices can happen”, said Grigoriy Antyufeev.

“Theforecastisoverstated. There is no any reason to estimate such increase of number of foreign tourists in Moscow”, said Konstantin Radushkevich, General Director of Reisebureau Welt. “Undoubtedly, the infrastructure of Moscow is ready for so many tourists, but it’s hard to talk about concrete numbers”. Besides, according to the expert, some measures should be taken on a federal level. “The most important event in this case may be a visa abolition agreement between Russia and EU”, noted Konstantin Radushkevich. source: atorus.ru

The tourist flow to Bulgaria increased by 31%

Russian market in Bulgaria took the 3rd place in August 2010 with the increase of 28% in comparison with August 2009, leaving behind the markets of Czech Republic, Poland and Greece. Such data was received by ATOR Analytical Service. Russia showed the best dynamics of growth among TOP 6 countries with the increase of tourist visits to Bulgaria for more than 1/3 (32.5%).

The peak of summer season was reached in August. The number of the visits with tourist purposes increased by 6% in August in comparison with July amounting 993 thousand tourists.

German market takes the first place in number of tourist visits during the first 8 months of the year with the share of 14% (464 thousand people), then goes Romanian market with the share of 13% (432 thousand people), the third place takes Greece with the share of 11.9% (395 thousand people and the fourth one takes the Russians with the share of 8.2% (270.5 thousand people).

In general, 330 thousand Russians visited Bulgaria during the first 8 months of 2010 (+31% in comparison with the same period of 2009). source: www.atorus.ru

World Travel Market 2010 to generate more travel industry business than ever before

Survey of Meridian Club reveals members are poised to sign more contracts worth a greater amount than in 2009

World Travel Market 2010, the premier global event for the travel industry, is poised to be the catalyst for even more travel industry business deals than ever before, reveals a poll of Meridian Club Members – WTM’s senior buyers network.

World Travel Market 2009 led to a massive £1,139 million of travel industry deals, with almost two-thirds (64%) of the Meridian Club members polled stating they expect to conduct a greater amount of business (in monetary value) at WTM  2010 than they did at WTM 2009.

More than a third (34%) expect to conduct about the same amount of business at this year’s WTM as they did at last year’s, with only 2% expect to conduct less business at WTM 2010.

WTM 2010 will be the biggest-ever World Travel Market due to the £165 million expansion of host venue ExCeL, London. The event has a number of new features to attract new exhibitors including the WTM Sports Pavilion and the first exhibition floor WTM Technology Presentation Theatre.

Six out of ten Meridian Club members expect to sign more business deals with a greater number of exhibitors at WTM 2010 than they did at WTM 2009.

Three out of ten Meridian Club Members expect to conduct between 11% and 25% more business (in monetary value) this year than they did in 2009. A further 35% expect to conduct up to 10% more business than in 2009.

To help facilitate business between exhibitors and buyers there will be a Meridian Club lounge in both exhibition halls for the first time.

Furthermore, The Meet The Meridian Club Buyers (Speed Networking) has also been expanded for 2010 with a new UK & Ireland and Technology and Online Travel session.

World Travel Market Exhibition Director Simon Press said: “World Travel Market is all about facilitating business between exhibitors and the industry’s senior buyers in the WTM Meridian Club.

“I am delighted Meridian Club members are telling us they expect to conduct a greater number of business deals leading to larger monetary value than ever before.”

World Travel Market polled 187 Meridian Club members.

August delivers boost to London attractions

London attractions experienced a boost in August as the number of visitors during the month increased by 7.5% over the same period in 2009.

The Visit London Attraction Monitor, which samples 34 attractions both free and paid, revealed the growth, which has followed on from solid performances in the months prior, with gains of 6.3% in June, and 3.4% in July.

The marked rise over the three months has resulted in an overall increase during the last quarter of 5.7% ahead of 2009 figures, the highest three–monthly rise since November 2009.

Commenting on the positive figures, Sally Chatterjee, CEO, Visit London said, “The latest figures from the Attraction Monitor illustrate how the diversity of London’s attractions and the capital’s ability to reinvent itself continues to attract visitors year on year. The positive trend of the last two quarters stands us in good stead as we look forward to the coming months.’

London’s free attractions reaped the benefits of the strong month, with attendances nearly 13% higher than in 2009, while smaller attractions continued to deliver characteristically impressive performances, with the sector showing a dramatic 24% increase over 2009 figures – their highest increase yet.

The overall attendances to London attractions during August can be seen as increasingly impressive in the context of a cool month which saw heavier than average rainfall.

The quarter three figures demonstrate the continuation of a positive trend which begun in quarter two, which reported growth in attraction attendances following a slow start to the year.

Nominate your favourite London experiences!

London is full of incredible things to see and do; whether it’s browsing through a museum, exploring the capital’s markets or enjoying the vibrant nightlife. From today, Visit London is giving you the chance to nominate your favourite London experiences for the BT Visit London Awards 2010.

Nominations are open until Sunday 10th October and the shortlist will be announced on Wednesday 13th October – so make sure you put forward your favourites in the following four categories:

Evening Standard’s Best Family Fun

Evening Standard’s Best London for Free Experience

Magic 105.4’s Best West End Show

Magic 105.4’s Best Gastronomic Experience

Voting takes places on the Visit London website and everyone who enters will have the opportunity to win one of five fabulous prizes
http://awards.visitlondon.com/peoples_choice/vlnominations

Now in their 7th year, the BT Visit London Awards celebrate the best of tourism in the capital and in addition to the popular People’s Choice Awards, there are 11 judged categories including Best Tourism Experience, Consumer Event of the Year and Sustainable Tourism Award.

As the nominations opened, Sally Chatterjee, CEO, Visit London commented, “We hope everyone puts forward their favourite London experiences for the 2010 People’s Choice Awards.  We know that Londoners and visitors alike have really strong opinions on what they like to do and we look forward to seeing which London experiences make it onto the shortlist.”

The winners of all the awards, including the People’s Choice Awards, will be announced at a glittering ceremony on Wednesday 8th December at the Bloomsbury Big Top in Coram Fields.

Visit London takes home Best UK City at the Group Leisure Awards 2010

Visit London, the official visitor organisation for the capital, took to the stage this week at the Group Leisure Awards 2010 as London was announced as Best UK City. The capital beat out other nominated cities Birmingham, Manchester and York to take home the top prize at the ceremony which took place in Birmingham on Wednesday 22nd September.

The Group Leisure Awards, now in their 13th year, give group travel organisers the opportunity to have their opinions heard and every category is voted for by readers of Group Leisure magazine and groupleisure.com

The Best UK City accolade follows on the back of Visit London’s success at the 2009 Awards, where visitlondon.com was announced as the winner of the Best Travel Website for Groups.

The award comes as Visit London continues work on the next stage of the highly successful ongoing campaign, Only in London, which seeks to highlight all of the truly unique attractions, sights and experiences that can only be found in the capital.

Predominantly voted for by industry members, the win reflects Visit London’s close relationship with the travel trade in promoting the capital and offering a range of invaluable resources to assist Group Travel Organisers when planning their London itineraries.

Sally Chatterjee, Visit London CEO commented:
‘Visit London is proud to accept the Group Leisure Award for Best UK City. Incomparably diverse and constantly evolving, London offers travel organisers endless choice when planning a trip to the capital. This accolade recognises the world-class attractions, events, hospitality and visitor services on offer, illustrating why London remains the most visited international city in the World.’

Womacks Casino in Cripple Creek, CO, Renamed ‘Century Casino’

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado, September 29, 2010 /PRNewswire/ — Century Casinos, Inc. (Nasdaq Capital Market(R) and Vienna Stock Exchange: CNTY) announced today that its Womacks Casino in Cripple Creek, Colorado, has been rebranded and now operates as “Century Casino Cripple Creek.”

“Womacks Casino, the Company’s original casino, has opened almost two decades ago. As we have added three more North American based casinos (Central City, Colorado and Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta, Canada) under the Century Casino brand during the last five years, it is only right that the first casino in the Century family line also carries the Century Casino brand name,” said Co CEOs Erwin Haitzmann and Peter Hoetzinger.

The casino has undergone a non-intrusive interior upgrade with a new carpet, new logo and signage throughout the property, providing for a revitalized interior appearance of the casino and player’s club areas.

UK TOURISM AND LEISURE COMMITTEE VOTES NEW CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR

Caroline Brown, Shearings Holidays Commercial Director is the new chair of ABTA’s UK Tourism and Leisure Committee. Caroline replaces Zena Calderbank, Hoseasons Head of Sales who has been the Chair for the past two years.

Caroline Brown said: “I am delighted to be appointed chair of UKTLG. I am greatly looking forward to working with fellow professionals throughout the industry to shape and develop the future of UK travel and tourism.”

Graham Balmforth, Superbreak National Sales Manager is now the committee’s vice chair replacing Bill Maxwell.

Graham Balmforth said: “I am delighted to be supporting Caroline in looking at ways in which the ABTA UK Tourism & Leisure Committee can continue to raise the awareness of the UK domestic market to the trade.”

The committee consists of the leading domestic tour operators, National Tourist Boards and retailers and aims to promote UK product to the travel trade.

Members of the ABTA UK Tourism and Leisure Committee are ABTA, Shearings Holidays, Superbreak, The Hoseasons Group, Pontins, Premier Holidays, Preston Holidays, Red Funnel, Bourne Leisure, Tourism Ireland, Visit England, Visit Scotland, Wales Tourist Board, Thomas Cook, CTTG, Advantage Travel Centres and TUI.

LEADING CRUISE EXPERT TO TALK AT THE TRAVEL CONVENTION IN MALTA

ABTA is delighted to announce that leading American cruise expert Bob Sharak will be talking at the opening session of the Cruise Forum at the Travel Convention in Malta. Mr Sharak of Cruise Lines International Association [CLIA], will discuss the evolution of and new innovations in the American cruise market, especially the role of travel agents and the impact of social media on traditional distribution channels.

Bob Sharak, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Distribution, CLIA said: “Whether here in North America, the UK, Europe or across the globe, travel agents are the key partners to the cruise industry helping to fill our ships.  I am delighted to be invited to join The Travel Convention in Malta to share our North American cruise perspective and to learn new insights from ABTA professionals.”

The CLIA has nearly 16,000 travel agency members and 24 major cruise line members, which collectively represent 97 percent of the cruise capacity marketed in North America.

Mr Sharak’s talk at the opening cruise forum session is entitled “An Innovative View From Across the Pond”

8th Annual Global Reserves Summit

European Transport Conference 2010

The demands on Europe’s transport systems continue to both increase and change annually with new factors challenging the industry every year. The economy and environment have provided recent issues our industry has had to respond to, while continuing to maintain the current environment whilst preparing for the future.

The Conference is unique in Europe, attracting around 500 transport practitioners and researchers to a meeting place, where they can find in-depth presentations on policy issues, best practice and research findings across a broad spectrum of transport modes.

The European Transport Conference, now in its 38th year, moves to its new home of Glasgow in 2010 and the Association for European Transport is grateful for the financial support of Transport Scotland and staff for their assistance in compiling aspects of the technical and social programme.

TUI AG issues invitation to conference on conservation of biodiversity on Mallorca

Why is biodiversity important? How does the loss of biodiversity impact on tourism and what can we do against it? – on 29 and 30 September 2010 some 25 international representatives from travel operators, travel agencies and conservation organisations will be dealing with these issues at Robinson Club Cala Serena. In conjunction with the Global Nature Fund (GNF) TUI AG´s Environmental Management unit has invited top ranking travel industry managers to Mallorca to discuss measures to conserve biodiversity and to develop feasible concepts for the industry. The workshop will be held within the European „Business & Biodiversity“ campaigne by GNF.

“The conservation of biodiversity represents a crucial challenge for the future. Together with our partners as well as with our competitors we wish to work towards anchoring the conservation of biodiversity in our business activities and practices. ”We will only be successful if countries and companies manage to pull in the same direction and act in an overarching manner,” says Mila Dahle, head of Group Environmental Management/Sustainable Development at TUI AG, to elucidate the thrust of the event.

TUI and the GNF are counting on clarity at the conference: many examples of practice are intended to heighten awareness for the diversity of nature. Subsequently, the travel industry representatives will work on measures to conserve biodiversity along the value chain and discuss opportunities for anchoring the relevant environmental standards at the corporate level. Presentations by experts from the German Agency for Technical Cooperation (GTZ), the International Union for Conservation of Nature as well as the GNF are designed to show the participants what kind of support they can count on for putting their plans into practice. In addition TUI will provide insights into its work on the Balearics: the programme includes an excursion to the TUI Forest as well as a guided tour by one of Robinson´s environmental managers around TUI Environmental Champion award winner Club Cala Serena.

WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS BACKS INDIA

World Travel Awards has confirmed it will go ahead with its planned Asia and Australasia Gala Ceremony in Delhi on October 14th. Despite sensational stories emanating from build up to the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games, the World Travel Awards Asia & Australasia Gala Ceremony in Delhi will take place on October 14th – offering a significant boost to regional industry. The Claridges, Surajkund, Delhi is set to host the 17th staging of the World Travel Awards.

This will be only the second time the event has visited India. World Travel Awards president and founder, Graham Cooke argues global media coverage of the Commonwealth Games preparations has been wildly disproportionate:

“India maintains a fantastic, world-leading, tourism product,” he explained.

“Millions of visitors from around the world visit India each year to take in everything from the Taj Mahal to the beaches of Goa.”

Mr Peter J. Leitgeb, President & CEO, The Claridges Hotels & Resorts, adds: “As one of the fastest growing economies, India today is on the radar screen of everyone and a key player in the world economy. No one can afford to ignore it.”

“The business climate and the economy in India is very bullish, especially so the hospitality industry. The industry has enjoyed an amazing run in this part of the world in the last five years.”

“The country itself has so much to offer to a visitor. It is fascinating to see the amazing diversity of the country and its vibrant and colourful culture.”

“I take this opportunity to thank the organising committee of the WTA for choosing The Claridges, Surajkund as the venue for World Travel Awards 2010 Asia & Australasia Ceremony, a much awaited annual event that truly recognises excellence in the world’s travel and tourism industry.”

Cooke continues, “The destination will grow to become one of the most important on the map over the next decade, despite misplaced perceptions over the Commonwealth Games.

We wholeheartedly support India and their continuous effort in developing the country, its economy and tourism. Through our event, we are firmly committed to placing a positive spotlight on the incredible destination that is India.”

World Travel Awards Asia and Australasia Gala Ceremony is in partnership with World Mobi, The Claridges, Surajkund, Air India, BBC World, Breaking Travel News, eTurbo News, TravTalk, Travel & Leisure China and Travel & Leisure Golf China.

Makuhari, Japan to Host ICCEES 2015 World Congress

As a result of the diligent efforts of the Chiba Convention Bureau, the International Council for Central and Eastern European Studies (ICCEES) has chosen Chiba’s Makuhari area as the site of its 9th World Congress in 2015.

MyCEB STRENGTHENS ITS TEAM

- MyCEB Announces Key Appointments Across All Business Units

Kuala Lumpur, 28 September 2010 – The Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) has recently strengthened its team with key appointments across all business units, to support its commitment to further develop Malaysia’s profile as the preferred business events destination globally.

Joining MyCEB’s team of professionals are:

Sales Manager, Corporate & Incentives

Ms Annie Tay has an established background of eight years in the business events industry including her last appointment with the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. With her forte in sales and yield management, Ms Tay will be focusing on the management and implementation of sales programmes to secure corporate and incentive meetings for Malaysia.

Sales Manager, Associations

Appointed as the Sales Manager for associations market, Ms Yushiza Mohd Yusof will concentrate on sales promotions, convention bidding and securing international associations meetings for Malaysia. A highly dynamic and committed professional, Ms Yushiza brings with her significant experience in business events and association management, including the past 10 years with an international professional conference organiser.

Industry Services Manager

Ms Shazalina Ghazalli will be responsible for spearheading initiatives such as the Industry Partners Programme to enhance MyCEB’s relationship with industry players. Her key emphasis will be on maximising collaborative marketing and sales efforts with the industry. Prior to this, Ms Shazalina was involved in promoting Malaysia for business events and tourism under Tourism Malaysia.

Marketing Services Manager

Mr Mohd Adli Shafri’s role will focus on the development and management of MyCEB’s sales and marketing tools, which includes web development, e-marketing and marketing collateral. Joining from Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Mr Mohd Adli specialises in marketing management for the business events industry.

Event Services Manager

The Event Services Manager will be responsible for the management and implementation of MyCEB’s event support programme. This includes providing meeting planners with local knowledge and expertise and coordinate on-site support for business events.

Mr Roslan Rahim and Ms Putri Sharizad Tengku Mustapha, each with more than 15 years of experience in destination marketing and business events have been appointed as Event Services Managers for MyCEB.

Mr Roslan will be supporting confirmed events from the ASEAN countries, India and Middle East whereas Ms Putri Sharizad will be servicing events from Europe, USA, Australia and New Zealand plus China.

Public Relations Manager

Appointed as the Public Relations Manager for MyCEB, Ms Phang Wei Yin’s role will focus on the development and management of MyCEB’s media and publicity programmes to position Malaysia as a premier meetings destination globally. Ms Phang’s professional background includes over four years of experience in marketing and communications for the business events industry.

2nd Annual International Conference on Fine and Performing Arts

The Athens Institute for Education and Research (ATINER) organizes its 2^nd Annual International Conference on Fine Arts in Athens, Greece, 6-9 June 2011.

The aim of the conference is to bring together scholars, researchers and students from all areas of Fine Arts (such as Animation, Architecture, Art History, Art Education, Book Arts, Ceramics, Community Arts, Fashion Design, Fiber, Furniture/Woodworking, Glass, Graphic Design, Illustration, Industrial Design, Interior Design, Jewellery/Metal Arts, Media Arts, Painting/Drawing, Photography, Printmaking, Sculpture, Fiber Arts, Visual Studies, Writing and Literature, etc) and Performing Arts (such as music, drama, dance, etc). Panel organizers are encouraged to submit their proposals by inviting other scholars that do research in the area.

The registration fee of €250 (euro), covers access to all sessions, two lunches, coffee breaks, and conference material. Special arrangements will be made with a local luxury hotel for a limited number of rooms at a special conference rate. In addition, a number of special events will be organized: a Greek night of entertainment, a special one-day cruise in the Greek islands and a half-day tour around the wider area of Athens (Attica).

Please submit an abstract of no more than 300 words (using email only to:atiner@atiner.gr) by 15^th of November 2010 addresses to: Dr. Stephen Andrew Arbury, Academic Member of ATINER and Professor, Radford University, USA. Abstracts should include: Title of Paper, Full Name (s), Affiliation, Current Position, an email address and at least 3 keywords that best describe the subject of your submission. Decisions are reached within 4 weeks. If you want to participate without presenting a paper, i.e. chair a session, review papers to be included in the conference proceedings or books, contribute to the editing of a book, or any other contribution, please send an email to Dr. Gregory T. Papanikos, (gtp@atiner.gr) Director, ATINER.

The Athens Institute for Education and Research (ATINER) was established in 1995 as an independent academic organization with the mission to become a forum, where academics and researchers – from all over the world – could meet in Athens and exchange ideas on their research and discuss the future developments of their discipline. Since 1995, ATINER has organized more than 100 international conferences and has published over 80 books. Academically, the Institute consists of four research divisions and nineteen research units. Each research unit organizes at least an annual conference and undertakes various small and large research projects.

The role of European Heritage and cultural itineraries in the renewed European tourism policy

The 2010 European Tourism Day celebrated yesterday 27 September 2010, “The role of European Heritage and cultural itineraries in the renewed European tourism policy”. It is being held on the occasion of World Tourism Day. At a conference in Brussels, a number of ministers and policy-makers present some cross-European cultural itineraries which could be further developed into a comprehensive tourism offer, helping to combat the tourist concentration in few sites, seasonality, and to strengthen EU citizenship through the discovering of our common heritage.

Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe

The Cultural Routes programme was launched by the Council of Europe in 1987. The initial concept was to demonstrate in a visible way, by means of a journey through space and time, how the heritage of the different countries of Europe represented a shared cultural heritage.

For more information: http://www.coe.int/t/dc/files/Events/itineraires/default_en.asp

European Heritage Label

In order to strengthen the European citizens’ sense of belonging to the European Union and to promote the European identity, the European Commission has adopted on 9 March 2010 a proposal to establish a European Heritage Label. The new European Heritage Label would designate those sites which have played a key role in the history and the building of the European Union integration. To date, a total of 64 sites have obtained the Label.

For more information:

http://ec.europa.eu/culture/our-programmes-and-actions/doc2519_en.htm

Iron Curtain Trail

The European cycling route “Iron Curtain Trail” invites people to retrace this important part of Europe’s history. For almost half a century, Europe was divided into East and West by the “Iron Curtain”, a border stretching from the Barents Sea to the Black Sea.

More than 7000 km of routes through 20 countries, along the length of the former border of the Warsaw Pact, combine European culture, history and sustainable tourism.

In 2005, the “Iron Curtain Trail” has been recognised by the European Parliament as a model project for sustainable tourism, as an example of soft mobility and a symbol of the reunification of Europe.

For more information: http://www.ironcurtaintrail.eu/en/index.html

Odyssea

The Odyssea project is a platform which connects the main harbours of the Mediterranean providing information and services of the ports in the network, but also tourism services and site to visit in the neighbourhoods.

For more information: http://www.odyssea.eu/odyssea2010/index.php

The Phoenician Route

The Phoenician Route links up the main maritime routes travelled by Phoenicians from the 12th century BC. Through these routes, the Phoenicians gave rise to a great civilization, contributing to the creation of a Mediterranean cultural “koine” (“community”).

This Itinerary passes through 18 countries of 3 continents and through over 80 towns of Phoenician origin, with the aim to promote the Mediterranean cultural and the historical heritage.

For more information: www.phoeniciansroute.eu

The route of the Olive tree

Based around the theme of the olive tree, a unifying element for the Mediterranean area and symbol of peace, friendship and wellbeing, the Olive Tree Route is a “bridge” between the olive oil producing countries: from Messina to Greece and the Mediterranean area. Numerous events are organised with the aim to promote the intercultural dialogue among peoples and the history and culture surrounding this precious tree.

For more information: http://www.olivetreeroute.gr/

The Via Francigena

The “Via Francigena” is a historical pilgrimage route, from Canterbury to Rome, taken by thousands of pilgrims during past centuries.

The route follows the path that Sigeric, Archbishop of Canterbury, took to get to Rome in order to meet Pope John XV and receive the investiture pallium. History has it that Sigeric wrote down a diary during his journey, making possible to retrace the key stops on it and contributing to the creation of one of the most important pilgrimage routes, considered one of three pilgrimages on which all sins could be forgiven.

For more information: www.associazioneviafrancigena.com

Saint Martin of Tours

St. Martin of Tours is known worldwide for having shared his cloak with a beggar. His gesture is the universal symbol of sharing. The cultural itinerary dedicated to St. Martin of Tours (more than 450 km of paths including Germany, Spain, Italy, France, Switzerland and Luxembourg) links up the European towns and cities which shared in Saint Martin’s life with the aim to promote the extraordinary and immense tangible and intangible heritage related to him.

For more information: www.saintmartindetours.eu

The Al-Andalus Route

“Al-Andalus” is the name to the territory occupied by the Moors in Southern Spain from the early 8th to the late 15th century. They played an important role in the history of Spain: during this long period, they contributed in developing philosophy, sciences and arts. These routes, which include the cities of Almeria, Malaga, Cadiz, Seville, Cordoba, Jaen and Granada, aim at contributing to the debate on the historical importance of interreligious dialogue in forging European civilisation.

For more information: www.legadoandalusi.es

The Saint James’ Ways

The Way of St James, the pilgrimage to the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia (in north-western of Spain) where the apostle Saint James the Great is said to be laid to rest, is a collection of more than 100 medieval pilgrimage routes which cover all Europe.

It has been one of the most important Christian pilgrimages since it was considered one of three pilgrimages on which all sins could be forgiven. During their pilgrimage, pilgrims had the opportunity to discover new customs, languages and ways of life, so that they could return home enriched with a breadth of knowledge rare at that time. The Santiago routes are a symbol of the cultural cooperation in Europe.

For more information: http://www.chemindecompostelle.com/

The European Thermal Route

The cultural route starts where the European thermal culture is born: in Greece. From here, it crosses numerous cultural, geographical areas and countries, from southern and eastern Europe to central and Western Europe. Baden-Baden, Bath, Budapest, Karlovy Vary, Spa and Vichy are some of the biggest thermal European towns. They are all characterized by the presence of the available natural and cultural resources.

For more information:

www.culture-routes.lu/php/fo_index.php?lng=en&dest=bd_pa_det&rub=91

St. Olav Ways

Not long after the Saint King, Olav Haraldsson, fell in battle at Stiklestad in 1030, the Christ’s Church in Nidaros became a popular goal for people seeking to redeem their souls at his shrine.

The St. Olav Ways consists of a network of more than 5000 km in Scandinavia that interconnects many places related to St. Olav. Churches, monasteries and chapels are a part of the St. Olav Roads.

For more information: http://www.pilgrimagepublications.com/st_olaf_way.htm

Renewable Energy Business Leaders to Convene at European Future Energy Forum

The foremost renewable energy gathering in Europe has announced a star line up of experts to appear in London, Oct. 19/21, 2010. A world-class debate will take place for three days, with how to fund the future of energy as the leading issue.

The forum will kick-off on Tuesday 19 October with keynote presentations from international leaders from around the world including Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, CEO, Masdar, Christine Lins, Secretary-General, EREC (European Renewable Energy Council), Chris Huhne, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, UK, Lykke Friis, Minister for Climate and Energy, Denmark, Pedro Marin, Secretary of State for Energy, Spain, and Carlos Zorrinho, Vice Minister for Energy and Innovation, Portugal; before engaging in a debate including government ministers, industry leaders and key influencers such as Kumi Naidoo, Executive Director, Greenpeace International

This fast-paced and exciting debate chaired by Steve Sedgwick, CNBC Anchor will ask ‘Where is the money coming from to fund the new energy revolution?’ What kind of regulatory environment is truly commercially relevant? How can government and industry work together to develop the low carbon energy supply we need? How do we identify sources for the new energy needs of the world’s fastest growing economies? What are the environmental and cost implications?’

A dedicated renewable and alternative energy conference stream will then run on both days 2 and 3 of the Forum to cover the specific challenges facing off-shore wind, nuclear, biomass, solar PV, Solar CSP, wave and tidal energy.

Twenty-nine industry experts from the international renewable industry community will present and discuss solutions and case studies, while other streams include infrastructure, finance, clean transport and green cities.

Confirmed speaker Jeremy Leggett, Chairman, Solarcentury says:

“Energy-security drivers from renewables deployment are stronger than ever before in 2010: with peak oil looming according to the UK`s Industry Taskforce on Peak Oil and Energy Security, and with the lights threatening to go out not far in the future according to the UK`s gas and electricity regulator Ofgem, the UK is the perfect place to hold a global renewables conference.  And with a new government in London promising to be the greenest ever, the time is right to dream big”

Wind energy looks to be hotly debated with industry heavy-weights showcasing the advancements that have been made both in the UK and across Europe. Plenary speaker, Matthew Chinn, Managing Director Energy Sector UK and Sector Lead NW Europe, Siemens says:

“Wind power represents the greatest opportunity for the UK to meet its targets by 2020. We have already established ourselves as the UK’s largest provider of wind turbines and offshore grid connections with our technology generating more than 40% of the UK`s wind energy, which amounts to over 2GW of electricity generation.”

Another highly anticipated plenary speaker, Thomas Dalsgaard, Vice President, DONG Energy, commented:

“The UK is one of DONG Energy’s primary markets for offshore wind. We have invested £ 2.6 bn. in offshore wind projects, and with our 20 years’ experience in building offshore wind power we are helping shape Britain’s renewable energy future. One third of the 1GW generated off the coasts of the UK today have been deployed by DONG Energy, and our new offshore wind power projects at London Array, Walney and Lincs will lead to an expansion of more than 650 MW.”

As the last major meeting of ministers and business leaders before this years UN climate negotiations in Cancun, the forum presents the most current technological advances and the business climate that exists to achieve drastic emissions reductions.

According to Steve Sawyer, Secretary General, Global Wind Energy Council, who will be speaking about the challenges and opportunities session on Oct 20th:

“As Europe considers moving towards a 30% emissions reduction target in the run-up to COP 16 in Cancun, this timely conference highlights the key role that offshore wind energy can and must play in order for Europe to meet its energy security, economic development and emission reduction objectives”

Alongside the conference, EFEF 2010 will feature a prestigious exhibition that will accommodate thousands of visitors and offer up to 200 of the region’s leading renewable energy suppliers, space to demonstrate solutions and business opportunities for the environmental technology market.

The exhibition hall is also the meeting place for round table sessions, networking lunches, refreshment breaks and private business meetings. There are limited stands still available. Seewww.EuropeanFutureEnergyForum.com <http://www.europeanfutureenergyforum.com/> for further details and the full conference programme or contact the team oninfo@EuropeanFutureEnergyForum.com

Star Clippers: autumn break in the Aegean

Tall ship specialist Star Clippers is offering a new short autumn break in the Aegean, combining a night in a luxury Athens hotel with three nights’ cruising the Greek islands on the graceful, four-masted square-rigger, Star Clipper.

Departing September 28, 2010, the holiday begins with a night in the five-star boutique hotel, St George Lycabettus, close to Athens’ chic Kolonaki district of shops and bars, within easy reach of the Acropolis.

Star Clipper sets sail from Piraeus, the port for Athens, on September 29, calling at the dramatic, volcanic island of Santorini, where the whitewashed cube-houses and blue-domed churches of Fira, the capital, are sprinkled across jet-black cliffs, towering over a deep blue sea. The second port is beautiful Mykonos, famous for its shopping, nightlife and long, sandy beaches. As well as plenty of opportunity to explore each destination, there will be time to relax on deck, enjoy a cocktail in the al fresco Tropical Bar and appreciate the beauty of a tall ship powered by 3,365 square metres of sail. The ship returns to Athens on October 2.

Fares for this special voyage start at just £799 per person, including full board and entertainment on the ship, one night in Athens, return flights from the UK and transfers.

For more information and bookings, visit: starclippers.co.uk

Meeting: Lymphomas Therapeutic Developments

At October 9th 2010 in Petros M. Nomikos Convference Center will take place under the auspices of the Greek Society of Haematology, a Meeting entitledLymphomas Therapeutic Developments – hard questions, recent answers, new challenges.

The subject is targeted. Issues of art therapy for some diseases that are the focus of development will be developed and discussed. Old and difficult problems, recent answers, new directions, new dilemmas and challenges that lead to new searches will come to the table of great and experienced colleagues in order to synchronize our steps, creating an environment for joint efforts and to strengthen the desire to create Greek lymphomas Group .

One other important factor that influenced the subject matter is the in the same place on 7 and October 8, International Conference organized by the International Working Group Ig CLL Group in collaboration with the Department of lymphoproliferative disease and our under the auspices of the Greek Society of Haematology. The issue is relevant, Antigens and Lymphomas, speakers international personalities. It focuses mainly on the epidemiology and pathophysiology of a variety lymphoproliferative diseases. It is an opportunity for those wishing to attend both events, which are related and constitute a single entity. www.vitacongress.gr

Future Music Forum : Barcelona 2010

ICON welcomes you to the Future Music Forum 2010. This upcoming two-day gathering is the 3rd edition in Icon Events successful series of Digital Media/Marketing events. The main theme of the FMF is how music is shared, consumed and how to economically benefit in today’s digital age. Ultimately how musicians and music industry professionals alike can monitize social media.

With the music industry ecosystem growing at a phenomenal pace we aim to provide a professional yet relaxed platform to explore, engage and discuss these topics with a carefully selected group of music futurists, digital copyright enthusiasts, music and technology entrepreneurs and digital music consumption analysts. “We believe that the future starts with healthy discussion and interaction between both poles of the industry.

We have endeavored to invite a healthy mix of established music companies & organisations with the new music industry innovators from the Radio, Online and Mobile Communities., with Barcelona Ciudad as the idyllic backdrop, a city with a thriving music scene. We believe the FMF will add to the ambiance of music appreciation and innovation felt throughout the city.

The future’s already here, join the Forum and book your place now!”

Popular Show Mamma Mia Theatre Breaks at Prince of Wales Theatre London

ABBA’s musical magic Mamma Mia is an enthralling experience for all the theatre lovers. The mesmerizing show of Mamma Mia is the story of a young would-be-bride, Sophie and her single mother, Donna. The brilliant classic is wooing the audience to the Prince of Wales Theatre from over a decade.

Magic of Catherine Johnson’s Mamma Mia is simply inescapable. Sophie is curious to know about the real identity of her father. She invites three men from her mother?s past and for her surprise they arrive at the eve of her wedding. Brilliant direction of Phyllida Lloyd is beautifully interwoven with the outstanding choreography by Antony Van Laast.

Enjoy some of the sensational musical numbers of Mamma Mia at Prince of Wales Theatre, such as Dancing Queen, Super Trouper, Take a Chance on Me and Mamma Mia. Prince of Wales has finely configured the sets of Mamma Mia and is a complete visual delight for all the viewers.

Year 1884 marked the foundation of a theatre on the site of Prince of Wales Theatre. C J Phipps was the architect of the original building. The old Prince Theatre was a three-tier auditorium featured Moorish style with white, cream and golden shades. Curtains and upholstery have strong earthy colors. Year 1937 marked the demolition of older theatre and giving way to the latest one.

For the house revue shows, architect Robert Cromie was commissioned specifically to construct the theater accordingly. Some of the major changes done are large stalls bar accompanied with dance floor.

During 50s, theater featured a lot of variety. But, with the showcasing of The World of Suzie Wong, things started changing, as it enjoyed some great innings. Some of the popular shows of Prince of Wales Theatre are Funny Girl, Sweet Charity, Promises, Aspects of Love and Mamma Mia!

The opulent Prince of Wales Theatre is finely equipped with some world class services, such as air conditioner and infra-red sound amplification. The theatre is positioned at the 31 Coventry Street at a nearby distance to Piccadilly Circus.

If you want to enjoy the show at fullest then you must book online advance official Mamma Mia Tickets. For an enjoyable experience, you can also opt for Premium quality Mamma Mia Tickets and Cheap Mamma Mia Tickets! So, enjoy the exciting musical voyage by booking advance Mamma Mia Show Tickets.

HotelMap adopted by major London venues

HotelMap’s reputation as the sought after hotel booking service for event organisers is resonating across London, as the Business Design Centre and Madame Tussauds are the latest venues to adopt the HotelMap service.

These venues which draw hundreds of thousands of delegates each year join HotelMap and strengthen the organisation’s growing demand for business from prominent London venues.

The Business Design Centre hosts over 300 exhibitions and events a year; Madame Tussauds is also high on the party planners’ list due to its unique and changing installations.

HotelMap has become recognised as the most progressive booking service in the hotel booking sector and connects live to London’s hotels thus minimising the time taken for business and leisure travellers to choose one of the most important aspects of their time in the capital – accommodation.

Kate Simpson, Conference Manager at The Business Design Centre said, “HotelMap was an obvious choice for us. Their unique map is amazing and our users have already found it quick and simple to navigate. The HotelMap team has been instrumental and has gone out of its way finding solutions to assist our clients. Here at the Business Design Centre we continually strive to improve our customer experience and I believe HotelMap will become a fantastic tool and partner for many years to come.”

Similar to other venues already using HotelMap, the system will help the two venues increase their scope for events and leisure use through the venue’s ability to offer a market leading accommodation booking service for hotels in the local and wider area.

Michael Aldridge, General Manager of Events at Madame Tussauds said, “HotelMap, looks great and is simple to integrate into your website.  With no effort it’s a new revenue stream for the event division of Merlin Entertainments, which is always welcome.”

Offering real-time live availability at London’s hotels, a bespoke HotelMap is created specific to The Business Design Centre and Madame Tussauds. Creating a HotelMap takes just a few minutes and connects delegates instantly with the reservation system of each local hotel, guaranteed lowest rates and to book with and pay the hotel directly.

HotelMap’s Steven Potter said, “This is great news that two more great London venues have taken on the coolest hotel booking service in town. We will continue to innovate and evolve an even more interesting service by working closely with these organisations and their delegates”

Live music under the stars in the heart of Los Angeles.

The Greek Theatre, Los Angeles’ premiere outdoor theatre, is nestled in the picturesque tree-enclosed setting of Griffith Park. This award-winning theatre is one of Los Angeles’ most historic entertainment venues and has played host to some of the biggest names in entertainment, from pop to classical, reggae to rock. The legendary Greek Theatre offers entertainment to every segment of the population. Recent seasons have featured performances by a wide variety of artists such as The Who, Sting, Alicia Keys, Pearl Jam, Jose Carreras, the Dave Matthews Band, Tina Turner, Elton John, Santana, The White Stripes, the Gipsy Kings, Jack Johnson, the Russian National Ballet, Paul Simon with a special guest appearance by Sir Paul McCartney, just to name a few.

This 5,801-seat venue offers an intimate concert setting, with state-of-the-art acoustics combined with excellent site lines. The Greek Theatre offers top quality entertainment under the stars in the heart of Los Angeles.

The Greek Theatre is owned by the City of Los Angeles, and is managed, operated and promoted by Nederlander-Greek Inc. During Nederlander’s tenure at the Greek Theatre, it has become a world-renowned, award-winning amphitheatre hosting thousands of events, making it one of the cultural icons of the city. The Greek Theatre has been named North America’s Best Small Outdoor Venue multiple times, which was awarded by Pollstar Magazine, the industries leading trade publication.

Moscow – Nice train in 50 hours

A ceremony was held at Moscow’s Belorussky Station to mark the launch of Moscow – Nice train №17/18. The train was seen off on its maiden journey by Federal Passenger Company General Director Mikhail Akulov, SNCF Europe and Asia Department Director Frédéric Pardé, and other officials.

“We place huge significance on developing international services, and are continually expanding our route network. This new train, which will link Moscow and Nice, is a result of successful work with our European colleagues. The train is departing on its first journey at 90% of capacity, which is a clear success. The train will pass through the territories of five countries, with a journey time of around 50 hours. By the end of 2011, we aim to cut the journey time to 36 hours”, Mikhail Akulov said.

Moscow – Nice train № 17/18 departed Thursday 23rd at 16:17 from the Belorussky Station in Moscow, on the following route: Moscow – Vyazma – Smolensk – Orsha – Minsk – Brest – Terespol – Warsaw – Katowice – Zebrzydowice – Bohumin – Břeclav – Vienna – Linz – Innsbruck – Bolzano – Verona – Milan – Genoa – San Remo – Bordighera – Ventimiglia – Menton – Nice.

The train arrived in Nice on Saturday 25 September at 19:12 (local time).

The train has three deluxe carriages, six first-class carriages, and one second-class carriage. Between Moscow and Brest, the train has two restaurant carriages of the Federal Passenger Company’s Moscow subsidiary, and on the Warsaw – Nice – Warsaw part of the journey, the train has two restaurant carriages of the PKP Intercity company (Poland).

The restaurant carriages offer Russian and European cuisine, with menus provided in Russian and English. Restaurant staff speak Russian, Polish, and English.

Tickets are sold at standardized rates between any two stations and countries on the route.

Ticket prices for the whole Moscow – Nice journey range from 306 euros for second-class, up to 1200 euros for a deluxe-class compartment occupied by a single passenger. A flexible pricing system is in place for children up to 12, young people up to 26, and passengers over 60, as well as for groups of six or more passengers and travelling couples.

The ticket cost includes hand luggage of up to 35 kg for each adult ticket, and 15 kg per ticket for children under 12. Passengers of all ticket classes may bring small dogs and birds if they purchase all tickets in their compartment.

Carriage attendants serving on the Moscow – Nice train were selected on a competitive basis. They underwent a special program with training in French and English language proficiency, psychology, ethics, and passenger service culture.

MSC CRUISES ADDS UNITED ARAB EMIRATES TO ITS WINTER ROUTES FOR 2011-12

MSC Cruises is pleased to announce the United Arab Emirates as a new destination for its 2011-12 winter collection.

The elegant MSC Lirica will be based in Abu Dhabi and Dubai for her busy 2011-2012 winter season. The itinerary includes a full schedule of nineteen 8 day-7 night cruises from Abu Dhabi, with departures every Sunday from October 30^th through to March 4^th 2012 and from Dubai, with departures every Friday, from October 28^th to March 9^th 2012.

The luxurious 59,000-ton MSC Lirica, which has capacity for a total of 2069 guests in 780 cabins will call at the port of Muscat in the Sultanate of Oman, Al Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates, the island Kingdom of Bahrain and include two unforgettable nights in Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.

MSC Cruises UK and Ireland Managing Director, Giulio Libutti comments, “MSC Cruises is experiencing an unprecedented growth in the UK and Irish markets at present and we welcome the expansion of being able to offer more choice to our passengers by cruising to the United Arab Emirates. We see this as an exciting cruise destination and predict a high demand of sales.”

October 14^th 2011 MSC Lirica will depart from Genoa, Italy, for a 17 day-16 night maiden cruise to Abu Dhabi, to start her first ever cruise season in the United Arab Emirates. Her southbound course will take her from the Mediterranean Sea with calls in Naples, Italy, and Port Said, Egypt, through the Suez Canal to Aqaba in Jordan, Salalah and Muscat in Oman and finally to Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.

Arabia will say farewell to MSC Lirica five months later, on March 9^th from Dubai, or on March 11^th 2012 from Abu Dhabi, when she starts her northbound return cruise to Genoa in Italy. Scheduled stops are Al Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates, Muscat and Salalah in Oman, Safaga in Egypt, Aqaba in Jordan, Port Sokhna in Egypt, through the Suez Canal to Port Said and finally to Naples and Genoa.

Ports of call during the Arabian itinerary include:

• Abu Dhabi is a cosmopolitan metropolis rich in splendours, from the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest in the world with its 800 domes and 1,000 columns, to the Heritage Village, Emirates Palace and Al Ain archaeological site with its palace museum. Guests can head into the desert to enjoy the thrill of a roller coaster ride through sand dunes or stay in the city for some of the finest, most sophisticated shopping on the planet.

• Dubai defies definition as an ultramodern city steeped in tradition, flanking the coast with  a natural creek on the edge of the Arabian Desert. Guests will delight in its worlds within worlds, discovering Ajman’s famous museum and souk, taking a leisurely tour of the city in a traditional Dhow after dinner, traversing the desert’s golden dunes in a 4×4 or bathing in the natural pools at Hatta.

• Bahrain means “two seas” in Arabic, referring to the freshwater springs of this magically unique archipelago of 32 islands, famed for its pearls since the Persian Empire. Guests can prepare themselves to be inspired by the prehistoric Royal Tombs and pottery at A’ali, alongside modern achievements that include the International Motor Racing Circuit and the 15-mile King Fahd Causeway to Saudi Arabia.

• Al Fujairah is a jewel of history and nature, set in majestic hillsides and wadis inhabited since the Iron Age. Visitors marvel at its atmospheric old city and 17th century fortress, Al Bithna Oasis with its prehistoric tomb, and the exquisite village of Masafi in the Hajar Mountains. Sun-seekers will find their own paradise in its scenic secluded beaches.

• Muscat has been renowned as one of the world’s greatest ports since Ancient Rome. Guests can journey through time in the breathtaking Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts, the bustling souk, the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Mosque and the Beit Al Zubair museum. Then they can treat themselves to the timeless natural fragrances of the exclusive Amouage perfumery.

Abu Dhabi signs three-year deal as World Travel Market’s Premier

Abu Dhabi has signed a three-year deal to be the Premier Partner of World Travel Market, the premier global event for the travel industry, up to and including WTM 2012.

Abu Dhabi plans to use its Partner status to promote its expanding leisure travel proposition, which includes this October’s opening of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the world’s first Ferrari Theme Park.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi opens on October 28 2010, less than two weeks before WTM 2010 opens on November 8, making the travel industry’s premier global event key in the promotion of the park’s exciting and unique attractions.

World Travel Market, which celebrated its 30^th event last year, attracts more than 46,000 participants to London every year to negotiate deals and discover the latest trends and opinions. WTM 2009 generated more than £1,139 million deals for its 5,121 exhibitors.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi has more than 20 rides lying beneath its iconic 200,000 m2 Ferrari red roof including the world’s fastest roller coaster Formula Rossa, which powers to 240 kmph in less than five seconds, and the G-Force, a thrilling tower ride that will shoot thrill-seeker through the park’s red roof 62 metres in the air and then back to earth experiencing the same G-force of a Ferrari

The theme park also charts the history and heritage of arguably the world’s most famous and iconic car manufacturer.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is to be a key plank in Abu Dhabi’s campaign to build its inbound leisure business, now accounting for around 30% of all hotel guests.

Abu Dhabi recorded a 16% rise in hotel guests in the first half of 2010 compared to the previous year, according to Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) figures.

An impressive 936,579 guests stayed in Abu Dhabi’s 116 hotels and apartments  from January to June this year, with guest nights rising 11% for the same period in 2009 to 2.47 million.

Abu Dhabi is set to meet its 2010 target of a 10% annual increase in hotel guests, taking the total number of arrivals to 1.65 million.

The UK was the most productive overseas market with an 18% rise on 2009 to 60,994 visitors.

Significantly, Abu Dhabi is building its traditionally slower summer months with hotel guests in June 2010 rising 17% on June 2010.

ADTA Director General His Excellency Mubarak Al Muhairi said the authority is aiming to achieve a more evenly balanced business and leisure tourism profile by 2010.

“Our leisure proposition is growing with new attractions, tours and services emirate-wide and, in conjunction with our expanding stakeholder base, we will be pushing this aspect strongly at World Travel Market 2010.”

World Travel Market Exhibition Director Simon Press said: “I am delighted Abu Dhabi is the Premier Partner for the next three World Travel Markets.

“Abu Dhabi is becoming a significant leisure tourism destination which will be further cemented by the opening of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the world’s largest indoor theme park.

“World Travel Market is the perfect vehicle for Abu Dhabi to promote its complete leisure tourism proposition to the global travel and tourism industry over the next three years.”

EIBTM TO FUND PROJECT MEETING ARCHITECTURE

Reed Travel Exhibitions announces today that EIBTM has entered into a partnership to be a Gold sponsor for ‘Project Meeting Architecture’.

Project Meeting Architecture is being created to enhance the overall effectiveness of meetings by globally creating Meeting Architecture, a discipline focused on designing and implementing the content of meetings based on objectives and measuring the outcome.  The discipline will form the basis of educational programmes for professionals and students.

Project Meeting Architecture will research, shape or create and promote educational components and resources that will advance the education options for future Meeting Architects.  To do so, Project Meeting Architecture will conduct research, publish and create educational programmes about the tools to be deployed before, during or after a meeting in order to improve the learning, networking and motivational objectives of meetings.  Project Meeting Architecture will work together with representatives from relevant sciences, the meetings industry, and other existing professions that support Meeting Architecture principles and project.

EIBTM has provided the seed funding to set up Project Meeting Architecture and part of this sponsorship will see the first annual board meeting taking place during EIBTM in Barcelona.  At the same time, Meeting Architecture will, for the third year running, be part of the education programme.

“Meeting Architecture is best described as the task of designing the content and format of meetings, in order to achieve the desired participant behaviour/response and thereby enhancing ROI. By supporting the Meeting Architecture 2011 Project, we will see what is an extremely well thought out concept become a practical and very valuable working tool, for both academia and industry alike”, says Graeme Barnett, EIBTM Event Director.

Members of the Committee created for PMA include: Marge Anderson As. Dir.  Energy Center Wisconsin, USA   Terri Breining, CMP, CMM, CEO Breining Group San Diego, CA, USA   Tyra Hilliard Associate Professor Univ. Alabama, USA   Elling Hamso, CEO Event ROI Institute Sandnes, Norway   Christian Mutschlechner, CEO Vienna CVB Vienna, Austria   Roger Tondeur, President, MCI Geneva, Suisse   Maarten Vanneste, CEO Abbit Turnhout, Belgium

The term Meeting Architecture was first used in the book “Meeting Architecture, a manifesto” by Maarten Vanneste in 2008 and further developed into The Meeting Architecture Manifesto through a collaborative effort by 40 meetings industry opinion leaders in Europe and USA, more information can be found on www.meetingarchitecture.org.

‘NIGHT OF THE YEAR’ FOR EUROPE’S TOURISM INDUSTRY

Europe’s top destinations and leading travel companies will gather under one roof on Friday 1 October at the Rixos Premium Belek, Antalya, Turkey.

All will be hoping to walk away with the most sought-after achievement in the travel and tourism industry – the World Travel Awards Europe Gala Ceremony trophies.

The awards, described by the Wall Street Journal as the ‘Oscars’ of the global travel and tourism industry, has helped improve quality, value and customer service over the past 17 years.

Nominees include some of the most respected and successful travel names in the business including Europcar, TAP Portugal, Turkish Airlines, Hilton Hotels, Lufthansa, Hertz, Mardan Palace, Tui Travel, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, and The Rocco Forte Collection.

The evening, attended by the region’s major company CEO’s, tourist board chiefs, association leaders and Government Ministers is set to be a spectacular affair.

Entertainment for the evening comes in the form of the world-famous ‘Fire of Anatolia’ dance act. This stunning cast of 45 dancers step, stomp and swirl to traditional folk music from the Black Sea to the Balkans. Traditional Turkish dancing with a collaboration of ballet and modern dance, the performance is backed by swirling Turkish music and drumming. Fire of Anatolia also holds the Guiness World Record for the fastest dance performance with 241 steps per minute.

Hosting the event is Seda Akgul, a familiar face on Turkish TV including TV8. Other entertainment on the night includes The Magic Drifters.

European nominees are among 5,000 nominated companies across more than a 1,000 categories, including airlines, cruise companies, destinations, resorts and hotels in 162 countries.

The highly contended title for Europe’s Leading Airline sees Air France, Alitalia, British Airways, Iberia, KLM, Lufthansa, SAS Scandinavian Airlines, Swiss International Airlines, TAP Portugal and Turkish Airlines fighting it out for the coveted title.

Meanwhile, competition is rife among the countries up for Europe’s Leading Destination. The contenders are Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin, Crete, Dublin, Dubrovnik, Istanbul, Lisbon, London, Pafos, Paris, Prague, Rome, Tallinn, Venice, Vienna and Vilnuis. Italy has the highest odds being the only country to have two destinations nominated.

Going head to head for the title of Europe’s Leading Marketing Campaign are: Expedia.com, “Where you book matters”; Spanish Institute of Tourism, “Spain, a country to share”; STA Travel, iPhone campaign; The Hans Brinker Budget Hotel Amsterdam, “The Worst Hotel in the World”; Thomas Cook, 2010 Marketing Campaign; Visit London, “Only in London”; Visit Denmark & Expedia, Joint Campaign and Yorkshire.com, “Welcome to Yorkshire”.

But it’s the struggle between hotels, large and small, that are likely to see the fiercest competition.

Battling it out for the highly sought after title of Europe’s Leading Hotel are Aquapura Douro Valley, Portugal; Castel Monastero, Italy; Ciragan Palace Kempinski, Istanbul, Turkey; Donbass Palace Hotel, Ukraine; Dubrovnik Palace Hotel Conference Centre & Spa, Croatia; Grand Hotel Lienz, Austria; Hotel Le Bristol Paris, France; Hotel Ritz Paris, France; Lešić Dimitri Palace, Croatia; The Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt, Ireland and White Pod, Switzerland.

Leading the way in hotel sustainability, the following nominees are all eager to gain the coveted title of Europe’s Leading Green Hotel: Apex City of London, England; AquaCity Poprad, Slovakia; Ariston Hotel, Italy; Bedruthan Steps Hotel, England; Chateau Mcely, Czech Republic; Choupana Hills Resort & Spa, Madeira; Hotel FOX, Denmark; Ice Hotel, Sweden; Kolarbyn Eco-Lodge, Sweden; Radisson SAS Hotel, Edinburgh, Scotland and Strattons, England.

In addition to overall Europe categories, there are awards for 57 countries including: Andorra, Belgium, England, France, Greece, Iceland, Monaco, Poland, Slovakia, Turkey and more.

Travel industry professionals throughout the world have been voting online for their preferred companies and organisations during the past four months. Voting has now closed and votes counted ready for the big night.

Consumers increasingly use the list of winners as a reliable guide and means of reassurance when choosing their holiday. Companies and destinations that finish up on the winners podium, receive extensive commercial benefits and global profile.

For a full list of nominees for Europe log on to http://www.worldtravelawards.com/nominees.

Rixos Premium Belek, the leading resort hotel in Belek’s Ileribasi district will be hosting the event. Main sponsors include Turkish Airlines and World Mobi.

Winners of the Europe Gala Ceremony go through to the final of the World Travel Awards in London on Sunday 7th November, immediately prior to World Travel Market.

World Generic Medicines Congress Americas 2010

The 3rd annual World Generic Medicines Congress Americas 2010 follows the 2008 and 2009 events in Washington DC which attracted a record number of generics manufacturers from North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East & Africa.

If you are in the generic medicines industry then you need to be at this conference meeting the experts that are shaping the future of this market. Hear from Sandoz, Dr Reddy’s Laboratories, Hospira, Mylan, Genentech, Biogen Idec, Alvogen & more…

Get Charged Up with SPI 10! October 12-14, 2010 · Los Angeles Convention Center

Solar Power International (SPI), previously called Solar Power Conference and Expo, was created in 2004 when the Solar Electric Power Association (SEPA) and the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) joined together in partnership to fill an obvious void: North America was missing a business-to-business solar conference and expo.

With an industry growth rate of more than 40% per year, there was a need for a single event where industry could come together with potential customers, policymakers, investors, and other parties necessary for continued rapid growth. It didn’t take long for the event to establish itself as the premiere solar event in the US, growing from 1,100 attendees to over 24,000 in just six years!

Like the number of event attendees, the number of exhibitors has increased significantly over the years as well. More than 1,000 companies will exhibit at SPI 10, including cell and module manufacturers, inverter and other component manufacturers, material and equipment manufacturers, installers, integrators and investors. Search the exhibitor list.

RSA Conference Europe 2010 is nearly here!

Get the knowledge and the solutions you need to protect your organization. Join world experts in London as we share 3-days of keynotes, educational sessions and security insight.

Insightful. Engaging. Interactive.

In information security, you’re trained to expect the unexpected. Changes occur in a nanosecond. Stay on top by staying one step ahead — attend RSA® Conference Europe 2010! Join us for the most comprehensive forum in information security. Come and learn about the latest trends and technologies, get access to new best practices, and gain insight into the practical and pragmatic perspectives on the most critical business issues facing you today. Connect and collaborate. Build your professional network. And mingle with the industry’s best and brightest.

• Engage with world-class experts – Choose from more than 100 sessions that match your information and learning needs.
• Gain the latest industry perspective – Discover emerging trends through world-class keynote addresses.
• Connect and collaborate – Join your colleagues at popular RSA Conference Europe networking events, in discussion groups, at the Welcome Reception and much more.
• Hands-on information and demonstrations – Discover and evaluate products and services offered by our sponsors.

Attend RSA Conference Europe and you’ll return to the office armed with the knowledge you need to remain on the forefront of the information security business.

RSA Conference Europe 2010 will be held at:

Hilton London Metropole Hotel
225 Edgware Road
London W2 1JU

Hilton London Metropole

The Hilton London Metropole is in the heart of London and is just a 5–minute walk from Paddington Station and a 20–minute train ride from Heathrow airport (using the Heathrow Express train). With 1,000 bedrooms on-site plus comprehensive conference facilities, you’ll be able to take advantage of everything being under one roof.

A Superlative Event

The NHA Hydrogen Conference and Expo is the largest hydrogen conference in the U.S. and the longest running annual hydrogen conference in the world.

This event will be your best opportunity of the year to learn about breakthroughs, progress on commercialization challenges and network over a few days with the brightest minds and business leaders in the industry.

Conference and Expo Fast Facts

• 1,000+ attendees
• 150+ speakers
• 100+ exhibitors
• 40+ conference sessions
• Several Dynamic, executive keynote addresses
• Many side events, including the popular Ride and Drive and tours

Plan now to join at the Gaylord National Hotel and Conference Center, in the greater Washington, DC area, on February 13-16, 2011.

US and international exhibitors make AIBTM A top priority for 2011

US destinations, Convention Bureaux and Hoteliers are making AIBTM (21 – 23 June 2011, Baltimore MD, USA) a top priority, marking it in their 2011 event calendars as the industry show at which to exhibit.  With over nine months to go until AIBTM opens its doors, 50% of the show floor has already been sold. With over 60 main stand holders contracted for booths up to 2,500 square feet (230 square metres), sales are gathering momentum.

This early in the sales cycle, we have signed contracts from Convention Bureaux Telluride, St. Louis, Seattle, Visit Florida, Denver, Chicago, Fort Worth, Houston, Boston, Miami, Las Vegas, New York City, Phoenix, Denver, Atlantic City and Orlando/Orange County.

According to Steve Knight, AIBTM’s Project Manager: “The response from exhibitors has been phenomenal. In addition to American exhibitors, we have strong international representation with companies from Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and South America. Exhibitors recognise the massive business potential that exists in talking directly to over 2,000 global Hosted Buyers coming from all sectors of the industry including corporate, agency, incentive and association backgrounds, plus an additional 1,000 event and meeting planners will be joining us from all over the US.”

Over and above the US bookings, booth space has also been contracted for international hotel groups, cruise lines and a multitude of European destinations.   Global hotel chains such as Fairmont-Raffles-Swisshotel and Resorts, Intercontinental Hotels Group and Carlson Hotel Group are joining Royal Caribbean International, Silversea Cruises, Sol Melia and Sofitel Luxury Hotels.  International destinations include Austria, Ireland, Hong Kong, Meet Taiwan, Argentina, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Panama, Austria, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Belgium.

Jorge Franz, VP of International Group Sales, Greater Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau comments: “Houston has been actively targeting international MICE in Europe, Asia Pacific and Latin America. AIBTM will definitely be a good addition to our global portfolio to capitalise on unique opportunities that are emerging from the new business cycle.”

Steve Knight continues: “The feedback that we are receiving has highlighted the need for a US-centric meetings event that puts business and education at its core. With Reed Travel Exhibitions’ reputation of organising the industry’s leading international events, EIBTM in Barcelona, as well as CIBTM in Beijing and GIBTM in Abu Dhabi, exhibitors are guaranteed to meet buyers and planners that are eager to do business.”

“The [EIBTM] hosted buyer program is invaluable… With scheduled appointments, networking and educational components that truly define the purpose of our profession, the importance of hosting and organising face-to-face conferences. Expanding the program into the US will increase participation and upgrade the professionalism of the industry by increasing the perspective of a much broader and diverse audience”, comments Thomas Morano, Vice President, Meetings & Conferences, American Financial Services Association.

Mike Fegley, Vice President of InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) said: “The EIBTM show in Europe has held an excellent reputation for many years and we are confident that AIBTM in the US will be a stellar industry event, as well.”

For further information please visit www.aibtm.com.

PCMA to co-locate 2011 International Summit at IMEX America

PCMA to Deliver Signature Education in Conjunction with IMEX America in 2011

The Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) has today announced further details of its Industry Partnership with IMEX America. The powerful new partnership will mean that PCMA’s 2011 International Summit will be co-located alongside IMEX America when it takes place in October 2011 in Las Vegas.

PCMA will aim to attract 150 top association and corporate meeting planners to next year’s International Summit, October 13-14, all of whom will attend IMEX America, October 11-13, as part of the trade show’s unique hosted buyer program.  As the majority are directors or higher in their organizations, their participation is likely to be a strong attraction for exhibitors.  Approximately 50 PCMA supplier members are also expected to attend.  PCMA will provide its signature education, allowing attendees to take part in sessions that address issues relating to conducting business in a global marketplace and have the chance to share best practice, fresh ideas and to learn from their peers and colleagues.

The power of the IMEX hosted buyer program is evident through research conducted amongst buyers following IMEX’s show in Frankfurt in May of this year.  The research showed that hosted buyers placed orders worth $450 million USD with exhibitors during the exhibition and expected to place over $2.2 billion USD of business with IMEX exhibitors in the following 12 months.

The IMEX America hosted buyer program will follow exactly the same model as Frankfurt, with a focus on attracting only the best buyers in the industry. The model will give buyers the freedom to make their own appointments with exhibitors of their own choosing on their booths. Each buyer will take full control of the timing and content of their appointments and have exclusive access to personal diaries and planning tools using the IMEX online diary and appointment system.

As Ray Bloom, Chairman of the IMEX Group, explains: “The profile of the PCMA International Summit delegates fits precisely with the type of buyers we are committed to hosting to IMEX America. These PCMA members all plan and organise meetings and conventions internationally and so are influential buyers of products and services both inside and outside the US.  IMEX America will deliver the largest hosted buyer program in North America, with 80 per cent of buyers from the US planning both US and international meetings, and 20 per cent from other world markets.  Being so closely involved with such a dynamic association as PCMA will give us a big advantage in fulfilling this promise.”

PCMA President and CEO, Deborah Sexton said, “PCMA members play an important and influential role in the international marketplace and the co-location of PCMA’s International Summit with IMEX America will provide attendees with new and cutting-edge solutions to the challenges they face in conducting business globally, while offering a unique opportunity to network, make appointments, and conduct business with exhibitors and attendees from around the globe. The co-location of the PCMA International Summit and IMEX America creates one of the most powerful hosted-buyer events in North America.”

UNWTO Sets Recommendations on Tourism and Biodiversity Ahead of World Tourism Day

Defining the critical role of the tourism sector in protecting biodiversity and setting out clear recommendations on how to maximize this contribution is the aim of two new UNWTO reports. These recommendations come ahead of World Tourism Day 2010, (WTD), celebrated on 27 September under the theme ‘Tourism and Biodiversity’.

Tourism and Biodiversity: Achieving Goals towards Sustainability, underlines the relationship between sustainable tourism and biodiversity, and assesses how tourism can contribute to achieve the international targets for the protection of biodiversity, including the Convention on Biological Diversity’s (CBD) 2010 and post-2010 biodiversity goals. The report also considers the implications for tourism of the recommendations from The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) study, part of the United Nation’s Green Economy Initiative.

The UNWTO report sets out ten recommendations for governments, international organizations, the tourism sector and NGOs on integrating biodiversity conservation in tourism development. Key among these are implementing best practices for avoiding and minimizing negative impacts of tourism on biodiversity; applying the CBD Guidelines on Biodiversity and Tourism Development and the findings of TEEB to the sustainable management and development of tourism; and promoting investment in ecological infrastructure.

The Practical Guide for the Development of Biodiversity-Based Tourism Products offers practical guidelines to local tour operators and product developers on how to develop sustainable biodiversity-based tourism products. Practical recommendations, including attending training programmes and monitoring the capacity of natural areas in order not to damage habitats and species, will help tourism stakeholders to not only position themselves competitively in international markets, but to also maximize tourism’s benefits for local communities, while maintaining local biodiversity.   

The two reports will be presented in Guangzhou, China, host of World Tourism Day 2010, and set the scene for the High Level Dialogue on Tourism, Biodiversity and Sustainable Development which marks the World Tourism Day official celebrations.

In a special message on the occasion of World Tourism Day, UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, has commended the tourism community for its “growing recognition of the importance of conserving the diversity of life on Earth” and further highlights how the sector can contribute to protecting biodiversity through “integrating simple measures such as managing tour groups to minimize disturbance to wildlife or buying supplies only from sustainable sources”. The full message can be viewed at: http://www.unwto.org/worldtourismday/about/about.php?lang=E&op=7

Skål International General Secretariat Awarded Green Globe Certification