All Entries in the "Topics" Category

New IMEX TV, App and social media team set to give new face to IMEX in Frankfurt 2012

The 10th anniversary edition of IMEX in Frankfurt, opening next Tuesday May 22nd at Messe Frankfurt, is set to be the most televised and ‘talked about’ in the show’s 10 year history. The launch of IMEX TV – sponsored by Iguassu Falls, Brazil – today’s release of the updated IMEX App and a variety of new social media services will be a defining element of this year’s show.

GBTA Forecasts Double Digit Percentage Increases in Brazilian Business Travel Spending

Brand new Meetings Industry Survey reveals close to one million foreign delegates visit Denmark

To co-inside with VisitDenmark’s brand new branding platform “Come and join us!” it appears that close to 1 million foreign delegates have already chosen to do so, with more expected to follow…

A new in depth analysis highlights “The Economic Contribution of Meeting Activity in Denmark” and now it’s official; 928,000 commercial[1] foreign delegates visited Denmark in 2010. DKK 3.5 billion was their contribution to the Danish economy and DKK 3,070 was the average daily spending/cost per person. The analysis, based on detailed venue, organiser and delegate surveys, has been conducted by VisitDenmark – the Official Tourism Organisation of Denmark – in corporation with Wonderful Copenhagen CVB, VisitAarhus, VisitEastDenmark and VisitSouthDenmark.

The report worthy of note sheds light on the number of meetings held in Denmark and their significance to the Danish economy on a national, regional and local level. It draws attention to the size of business tourism within the Danish tourism sector; the number of external meetings held, bed nights spent by foreign delegates, their daily spending and much more, and is the result of two years of methodical research and analysis.

Henrik Kahn, Director – VisitDenmark UK/Ireland and Project Owner of the study, explains:

“The tourism industry is a key contributor to economic growth worldwide and the purpose with this study has therefore been twofold: to prove the importance of business tourism to the Danish economy and thereby accomplish further recognition from local, regional and national governments of the meetings sector, and to map the volume, structure and characteristics of meeting activity in Denmark in detail – not least the foreign part of it!”  

“We’ve done our research and are encouraged by the findings in the report. Its entirety and the high number of respondents give credibility and validity to the analysis and sure enough, we will use the knowledge pro-actively in our future strategic plans for the further development and promotion of our professional meetings industry,” Kahn continues.

The Danish study is based on the recommendations from the UNTWO on how to establish national accounts of the meetings sector, in combination with the methodology used in a Canadian Study published in 2008; “The Economic Contribution of Meetings Activity in Canada, the Danish TØBBE-figures and more. It also corresponds with the “Meeting Satellite Account” and takes its point of departure in MPI’s definition of meetings.

The findings in the Danish report are the results of thorough research conducted in 2010-2011 and a second report is scheduled for 2013-2014 in order to trace the latest developments within the Danish meetings industry.

[1] Commercial foreign delegates is defined as delegates attending meetings in hired venues in Denmark.

The key findings in the report are:  

• The Danish tourism industry (leisure & business tourism) created a direct turnover of DKK 74.6 billion (€10.02 billion) in 2010.
• Thereof the Danish meetings industry created a direct turnover of DKK 20.8 billion (approx. €2.79 billion) of which DKK 11.4 billion (approx. €1.53 billion) is costs of meetings and DKK 9.4 billion (approx. €1.26 billion) is spending from delegates, incl. accommodation, transport and shopping.
• Gross Value Added (GVA) amounts to DKK 15 billion (approx. €2.01 billion), or the equivalent to 1.0 per cent of the Danish GVA, when including derived effects.
• Personal and corporate taxes as well as VAT make up for 1.3 per cent of the totals with DKK 7.8 billion (approx. €1.01 billion).
• Some 37,900 jobs are generated due to the direct and derived effects the industry has on the Danish economy, corresponding to 1.4 per cent of total employment in Denmark.
• The total no. of meetings held in Denmark in 2010 was 187.900 with the total no. of delegates being 6.9 million.
• Commercial foreign delegates contributed with DKK 3.5 billion (approx. €470,505,995) or 17 per cent of all meetings activity in Denmark.
• The no. of commercial foreign delegates in Denmark (2010-figures) was 928,000. Thereof, 201,000 delegates stayed overnight equivalent to 460,000 room nights in 2010, generating DKK 1.5 billion (approx. €201,664,126) of the above mentioned DKK 3.5 billion. Some 60 per cent of these overnight stays were in the Capital region.
• The no. of day delegates is higher than expected as is the turnover from these delegates; DKK 2 billion (approx. €268,860,568) of the above mentioned DKK 3.5 (approx. €470,505,995).
• The average total spending and cost per delegate is DKK 3,070 (approx. €412) thereof the day delegate spending is DKK 1,830 (approx.  €246) and the meeting cost DKK 1,240 (approx. €166).

15th ANNIVERSARY PROMOTION

 Fly Around the World for Less with Star Alliance’s 15 Per Cent Off All Economy Class Round the World Fares

FRANKFURT, Germany – May 14^th, 2012 – As part of its 15^th Anniversary celebrations, the Star Alliance network is offering a 15 per cent discount on all Round the World (RTW) Economy Class fares. This special promotion is valid for all RTW tickets in Economy Class sold from May 15^th to May 29^th, 2012. The discount is applicable on the base fare only and not on fees, taxes and surcharges which vary by routing.

15 years after its founding, the Star Alliance network has grown to 25 member airlines offering more than 20,500 daily flights to 1,293 airports in 190 countries, thereby providing globetrotters an unparalleled choice of flight connections and destinations. RTW fares in their current form have to a large extent been made possible by airline alliances, as no single airline is in a position to offer a fare which allows truly global travel.

The Star Alliance network offers four Economy Class RTW fare levels which allow customers to travel distances of up to either 26,000, 29,000, 34,000 or 39,000 miles. The circumference of the Earth measured at the Equator is approximately 24,901 miles and the fare levels offered allow the customer to select the mileage requirement which best suits their personal travel needs. Actual fares vary by market and in general offer better value for money than purchasing individual one-way tickets on separate airlines to cover the same itinerary. Children between the age of two and 11 pay 75% of the applicable adult fare, while infants under two who do not occupy a seat can be taken along for ten per cent of the applicable adult fare.

Customers can build their own routings within the mileage limits of the different fare levels. Travel needs to commence and end in the same country, be one directional either going East or West and include a trans-Atlantic and a trans-Pacific crossing. 24 hour stops must be made in at least three cities and the itinerary may include between two and 12 additional stops (total number of stops are dependent on the actual fare type). Further information can be found at: www.staralliance.com/en/fares/round-the-world-fare/. This page also leads to the Star Alliance Book and Fly tool (www.staralliance.com/en/booking/book-and-fly/#), which allows online booking and ticketing for the RTW fare. As an alternative, customers can also contact any of the 25 Star Alliance member airlines or a travel agency.

In addition to the Economy Class fares, Star Alliance network also offers RTW tickets for travel in First or Business class, which are not part of the special promotion. In total, the Star Alliance network offers 15 different fare products, including three Circle Fares and 11 Regional Airpasses.

Measuring Economic Impact of International Conferences on Malaysia’s Business Tourism Industry

The team from the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre and Taylor’s University School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary Arts

As business tourism continues to gain recognition in Malaysia as a key economic driver, the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (the Centre), the country’s leading convention facility, and Taylor’s University School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary Arts (TCHT) joined hands last year (2011) to conduct a research project titled ‘Micro Impacts and Benefits of Business Tourism Malaysia: A Case Study of Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre’.

The survey, the first of its type to be conducted by a convention centre in the country, looked at three major areas of interest – travel information, delegate spend and delegate experience in relation to attendance at events held at the Centre.

Speaking at a recent gathering to share the findings of the study, Datuk Peter Brokenshire, General Manager, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, said the first-hand information garnered from the delegates provided some useful insights into what needs to be done to develop the industry further and to enhance the Centre’s, Kuala Lumpur’s and Malaysia’s competitiveness regionally and internationally.

“With the results, we also hope to identify supplementary areas and activities that can complement business tourism and in turn, expand the benefits derived from the industry through increased income, investment and employment.”

In thanking TCHT for their collaboration and the meeting planners and delegates for their participation, Brokenshire said the information collated will be invaluable in helping not just the Centre, but industry players, to examine the current facilities and services and where possible, do the necessary to better cater to the needs of conference delegates.

For the Centre per se, it was uplifting to see delegates had high perceptions of its facilities and services. “Given how competitive the market is; locally, regionally and internationally, we are cognisant of the need to stay ahead of the pack. Through this study, we now have more concrete information of what we do well and where we need to do better,” added Brokenshire.

According to Associate Professor Dr. Kashif Hussain, Programme Director, School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary Arts, Taylor’s University, who helmed the project, “Overall, delegates deemed Malaysia to be a desirable location with notable conveniences, such as excellent shopping and entertainment (restaurants and bars) facilities, a rich abundance of cultural diversity, admirable tourist attractions and a very attractive and modern looking city.

“However, some did ‘voice’ their concern over the city’s pollution, traffic and parking conditions, the long wait at customs on arrival at the airport and errant taxi drivers. Despite this, close to 40% (of all delegates) said they would return to Malaysia within the next three years,” said Dr. Hussain.

Other interesting insights from the survey:
35% of delegates were from the US$4,000+ (RM12,200) a month income bracket;
34% spent more than US$500 (RM1,500) on shopping;
30% booked pre- or post-tours;
66% spent less than US$100 (RM300) on local transportation; and
while 40.8% spent less than US$3,200 (RM9,800) during their stay, 13.8% spent US$6,408 (RM19,600) or more.

This further supports the theory that business tourism delegates are higher-yield tourists compared with regular tourists and thus, generate more income for the domestic economy.

Survey respondents comprised more than 900 local and international delegates from over 70 countries from five events held at the Centre in 2011. They were the 5th CINP Asia Pacific Regional Meeting 2011, 70th Institute of Internal Auditors International Conference 2011, SIFE World Cup 2011, Asia Pacific Congress in  Maternal Fetal Medicine (APCMFM) 2011 and the 21st Asia Pacific Cancer Congress 2011.

Destinations Told How To Attract Chinese Tourists at WTM Vision Conference – Shanghai

A hassle-free visa application process is one of the main factors destinations need to consider to increase Chinese outbound visitor arrivals, WTM Vision Conference - Shanghai delegates heard this week.

Destinations are desperate to increase the number of Chinese tourists due to their high spending habits. In the first session, Euromonitor International China Travel and Tourism Analyst Ray Li predicted Chinese tourists will spend $36 billion on shopping when overseas in 2016, which is double the amount they spent in 2011.

Speaking as part of the panel debate on the Chinese inbound and outbound markets, General Manager of MIKI Travel Cecelia Zhou told a packed room of delegates a smooth visa application process is vital for Chinese travellers when deciding their next overseas holiday destination.
Executive President of Jin-Jiang International Travel Ge Wanjun added Chinese people leave booking their holiday until the very last minute so visa application processes need to be made quick, easy and accessible.

Other factors destinations need to consider when trying to attract this increasing market is the ”joint exercise from both the private and public sectors” CEO of TUI Travel China Marcel Schneider commented.

“There is a need to be willing to invest money, HR and time to develop the destination in order to meet the Chinese market’s expectations,” Schneider added.

President and General Manager of Anhui Region in China Li Guoqing explained: “Chinese tourists really need to be educated on outbound destinations, what is there to do? What is there to eat? Where is there to stay? In order to attract a high numbers of Chinese tourists.”

Reed Travel Exhibitions Director World Travel Market Simon Press, who opened WTM Vision Conference – Shanghai, said: “WTM Vision Conference Shanghai offered a fascinating insight to the Chinese tourism industry.

“Chinese tourists are in high demand due to their high in resort spending patterns and delegates heard the secrets to attracting high numbers of visitors from China.

“The event, in association with Chinese Business Network, is a great addition to the Vision portfolio, following on from similarly highly successful events in Moscow, London and Dubai.”

The final event in the 2012 series, WTM Vision Conference – Florence, takes place next Friday (18 May).

Hotels.com Guides Travelers To The Largest, Tallest And Grandest

DALLAS – May, 2012 – Want to come back from summer vacation with a big story to tell? Everyone knows thatHotels.com® is the authority when it comes to helping vacation-goers find the best deal, but this summer the go-to hotel booking site is also helping consumers go big or go home. Whether it’s the largest, tallest or grandest, Hotels.com has a recommendation for the perfect hotel for any wanderluster looking to experience a one-of-a-kind stay this summer.

Size Does Matter

• Biggest Hotel: First World Hotel, Genting Highlands, Malaysia (6,118 rooms). High among the peaks of the Titiwangsa Mountains stands the very colorful First World Hotel. It was officially crowned the biggest hotel in the world by Guinness Book of World Records for its over 6,000 modern guest rooms. It also boasts two towers that overlook a 500,000 square foot entertainment plaza with 11 restaurants, indoor and outdoor amusement parks, a rainforest and loads of shopping – just to name a few things.
• Biggest Suite: Grand Hills Hotel and Spa, Broumana, Lebanon (44,500 square feet). The Royal Residence has three floors of sprawling salons, living, and dining rooms and another three floors of luxurious bedrooms. Other perks include an in-suite wine cellar, garden and several private swimming pools.
• Biggest Lobby: Hyatt Regency, San Francisco, California (9,547,200 cubic feet). For many, this 15-story-high atrium is not just a place to check-in and out, or even an abnormally large lobby – it’s a piece of contemporary art. At the center of the 351-foot-long space is Charles O. Perry’s Eclipse, a 40-foot-high geodesic sphere rising from a reflecting pool into the soaring 170-foot-high space above.

Feel On Top Of the World

• Highest Elevation: Hotel Everest View (HEV), Namche, Nepal (13,000 feet above sea level). For a truly awe-inspiring experience, guests can stay at the HEV among Sherpas of the local villages near the base camp of Mount Everest. Every guest room has a panoramic view of the Majestic Mountain and 24-hour flow of fresh oxygen to help their bodies acclimate to the altitude shock.
• Highest Floors: Ritz Carlton, Hong Kong, China: (102-118 stories). At 1,600 feet above sea level, the Ritz Carlton Hong Kong is considerably closer to land than the HEV, but it’s nothing to shrug at, as it offers breath-taking views of another kind.
• Tallest: Park Hyatt, Shanghai, China (1,614 feet). Situated on the 79^th to 93^rd floors of the Shanghai World Financial Center, the Park Hyatt isn’t located quite as high as the Ritz Carlton, but it is perfect for those that want the thrill of staying in a building that towers over all but two other buildings in the entire world.

Living Large

• Largest Spa Resort: Shun Jing Hot Spring Hotel, Beijing, China (1,052,676 square feet). This Guinness World Record holder is so big it took nearly 10 years to build and for some it may take nearly as long to explore its wonders. From over 90 different Japanese-style baths to napping rooms to a movie theater, guests will be volunteering to stay for 10 years of bliss.
• Largest Pool: San Alfonso del Mar, Algarrobo, Chile (20 acres). Guests in this 66 million gallon man-made paradise never have to feel crowded as they have their choice of 3,323 feet of constantly circulated seawater. This $1.6 billion masterpiece offers a wide array of water activities, including some that you won’t find in any other hotel pool – sail boating anyone?
• Largest Bill: President Wilson Hotel, Geneva, Switzerland ($65,000 per night). The Royal Penthouse Suite offers spectacular views of Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc, but those views have a hefty price tag, the largest in the world by far. This doesn’t come as much of a surprise as Switzerland has consistently placed on the top 20 most expensive countries list, according to the Hotel Price Index™ from Hotels.com. In fact, this year, it placed 17^th, with average prices rising by a notable 16 percent.

The World’s Most Expensive Club Sandwiches!

The Hotels.com® Club Sandwich Index (CSI) examines the cost of a club sandwich in the 10 most popular U.S. cities

DALLAS –  2012 – Paris, often thought of as the world’s most romantic city, has just been deemed the most expensive city in the world to order a club sandwich by Hotels.com®. But if $33 seems like too much to shell out for lunch, stick to the 10 most popular United States destinations – according to the 2011 Hotels.com Hotel Price Index™ (HPI®) – where the most expensive club sandwich can be found in New York City, for an average price of nearly $17.

Why choose the club sandwich? The classic chicken, bacon, egg, lettuce and mayo sandwich, a standard lunch available in hotels worldwide, was used as a universal measure of affordability in the Hotels.com Club Sandwich Index (CSI). The CSI average price has been calculated by taking the real prices paid by guests for a club sandwich within 1,000 five, four and three-star hotels located in popular travel destinations across 26 countries, with 10 U.S. cities measured.

This standard lunch fare is known for its popularity among hotel restaurants worldwide where it has been a staple since the 1800s. Although the exact origin of the club sandwich has not been proven, popular myths point it to an exclusive – wait for it – gambling club – in Saratoga Springs, New York, where it became popular before spreading to the rest of the world.

To help hotel guests and hotels.com users learn how to prepare the perfect club sandwich on their own, John Torode, chef, restaurateur and TV presenter reveals in this video how kitchen skills can result in lunch that tastes just right.

“The CSI is a quirky way for travelers to estimate the cost of living in the destinations they are visiting for their vacations,” said Taylor L. Cole, director public relations and social media, North America at Hotels.com. “Hotels.com customers already know how to snag great hotel deals. The CSI is a fun metric which provides an average cost travelers can use to estimate lunch budgets for daily expenses away from home.”

Within the U.S., it is no surprise that New York City is home to the most expensive club sandwich prices due to the city’s reputation for an expensive cost of living. Although affordable lunch can be found in San Diego, visitors can assume while traveling in the U.S. lunch will set them back around an average of $12 – $14. An interesting regional difference travelers should note is that many restaurants in New Orleans do not serve club sandwiches, but rather the Big Easy favorite, Po’ Boy, which can consist of a variety of seafood or meats and condiments served on French bread.

In London, the top overseas destination for Americans according to the HPI, a club costs an average of $19, making the city ninth on the CSI. The least expensive cities for a club sandwich from all 30 global cities surveyed are New Delhi, India and Mexico City, Mexico, with the average price coming in at just $10.

World’s most misleadingly named airports revealed by Skyscanner

Paris-Vatry Disney is the latest ‘ambiguous’ airport to be added to Ryanair’s list of destinations, Skyscanner reports that it’s far from being the only misleadingly named airport out there.

With both ‘Paris’ and ‘Disney’ in the name, travellers might expect the airport to be located in the vicinity of either the French capital or Euro Disney. However, at 93 miles from Paris’ city centre, and 70 miles from Europe’s ‘Magic Kingdom’, Paris-Vatry Disney sets a new record in misleading airport nomenclature.

Many budget airlines use ‘secondary’ airports because of the lower operational costs compared to more central airports, which allows them to offer cheaper flights. However, some carriers have come under fire for giving airports misleading names, considering they can be miles away from the city they claim to serve.

Munich’s Memmingen airport is 70 miles from central Munich, Oslo Torp is 68 miles from central Oslo, and new easyJet base, London Southend, is 40 miles from the city centre (the same distance as London Stansted is from central London).

Sam Baldwin, Skyscanner Travel Editor, commented:

“Depending on your final destination, regional airports can be very convenient, but travellers wanting to reach city centre locations must factor in the time and transport costs of using a regional airport, and compare them to a more central airport. If you fly to an airport with Paris in its name, you would expect it to be somewhere near Paris, but 93 miles isn’t what most would call close. It’s the equivalent of wanting to fly to London, but actually landing in Northampton.”

Most misleadingly named airports

1. Paris-Vatry (Disney) – 93 miles (150km) from central Paris (and 70 miles (112km) from Disneyland Paris)
2. Munich West (Memmingen) – 70 miles (112km) from central Munich
3. Oslo (Torp) – 68 miles (110km) from central Oslo
4. Frankfurt (Hahn) – 68 miles (110km) from central Frankfurt
5. London (Oxford) – 60 miles (97km) from central London
6. Stockholm  (Skavsta) – 59 miles (95km) from central  Stockholm
7. Barcelona (Girona) – 58 miles (94km) from central  Barcelona
8. Barcelona (Reus) – 58 miles (94km) from central Barcelona
9. Paris (Beauvais ) – 55miles (88km) from central Paris
10. Dusseldorf (Weeze) – 50 miles (80 km) from central Dusseldorf
11. London (Stansted) – 40 miles (64km) from central London
12. London (Southend) – 40 miles (64km) from central London
13. Tokyo (Narita) – 37 miles (60km) from central Tokyo
14. Verona (Brescia) – 33 miles (53km) from central Verona
15. Glasgow (Prestwick) – 32 miles (51km) from central Glasgow

Airports which really do serve their cites

1. Taipei Sungshan Airport – 3 miles (5km) from central Taipei
2. Salt Lake City Airport – 3 miles (5km) from central Salt Lake City
3. San Diego Airport – 3 miles (5km) from central San Diego
4. Tallinn Airport – 3 miles (5km) from central Tallinn
5. Belfast (George Best) – 3 miles (5km) from central Belfast
6. Wellington Airport – 4 miles (7km) from central Wellington
7. Honolulu Airport – 4 miles (7km) from central Honolulu
8. Lisbon Airport – 4 miles (7km) from central Lisbon
9. Bucharest Otopeni Airport – 4 miles (7km) from central Bucharest
10. Mexico City Juarez International – 4 miles (7km) from central Mexico
11. Cagliari Airport – 5 miles (9km) from central Cagliari
12. London City Airport – 6 miles (10km) from central London
13. Warsaw Airport – 6 miles (10km) from central Warsaw
14. Vancouver Airport – 8 miles (13km) from central Vancouver
15. Edinburgh Airport- 8 miles (13km) from central Edinburgh

Egencia Mobile Extends to Additional Platforms

The leading TMC’s mobile application is now available on Android and Mobile Web enabled devices.

Egencia®, the corporate travel arm of Expedia Inc., today launched the next phase of Egencia Mobile, extending their mobile application to Android and Mobile Web devices. Previously developed for the iPhone, Egencia Mobile enables business travellers to easily access flight and destination alerts, check-in online, receive one-click customer support and much more – nearly anywhere in the world, now on virtually any type of mobile device.

“Egencia Mobile further demonstrates Egencia’s continued focus on providing the best-in-class experience for our mobile users by placing more power in their hands, ensuring they can easily view their itineraries and receive pertinent, up-to-date travel information while on the road,” said Rob Greyber, President, Egencia. “The app was designed specifically for business travellers, based on their feedback and catering to their needs by conveniently providing useful travel information quickly and easily on their device of choice.”

Egencia Mobile App Features

Information At Your Fingertips

With Egencia Mobile, flight and destination alerts, online check-in, and customer support are always a touch away to help business travellers travel more efficiently, smartly, and safely.

Flight and Destination Alerts

This unique feature ensures that the traveller is instantly aware of time sensitive issues and crisis scenarios:

• Flight alerts inform travellers about flight delays and cancellations that may affect their trip.

• Destination alerts, covering natural disasters, security issues, weather, etc.

• Alerts are prominently displayed throughout the app so the traveller can easily and quickly view and access their alerts.

Additional Features and Functionalities

• Online Check-in is available today for all major airlines — making check-in one click away.

• Interactive Maps for all trip stages.

• Flight Schedules: Egencia Mobile makes identifying flight options easier than ever. If the traveller misses their flight, they will be able to quickly determine if and when a next flight is available.

• Click-to-Call Egencia Customer Service: the “Contact” tab enables the traveller to call or email customer service with one touch.

Egencia Mobile is currently available in the following countries: UK, US, France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, Sweden, Spain, Italy, Canada, Australia, and India. Languages supported include English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Swedish, Canadian French, and Dutch. Thanks to Egencia’s proprietary technology, all travellers can experience the same benefits and functionality regardless of location.

The app, built for Egencia clients, is accessible / downloadable for free at:

Apple App Store:

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/egencia/id446768364?mt=8

Google Play:

http://play.google.com/store/apps

Mobile Website:

http://mobile.egencia.com

Strong five years tipped for Chinese travel despite slowdown in economic growth

 Shopping, internet booking and low-cost carriers will have the biggest influence on the Chinese travel market over the next five years, reveals exclusive research unveiled tomorrow (Thursday 10 May) at the inaugural WTM Vision Conference – Shanghai.

Senior industry delegates at the event, in association with China Business Network, will be told the strength of the Chinese economy will underpin the travel sector’s growth until 2016.

The Travel Industry Global Overview report, by Euromonitor International, reveals the Chinese economy will be the world’s strongest over the next five years, with GDP growing at around 8% per annum.

For the outbound sector, shopping is named as the Chinese travellers’ activity of choice. The report states by 2016 the Chinese will spend around $36bn while shopping overseas, double the amount recorded in 2011.

The research also tips the Chinese to double spending on accommodation (to $12bn), excursions (to $6bn) and getting around within the destination ($6bn).

The most popular international destinations for Chinese travellers in 2011 were Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.

Reed Travel Exhibition Director World Travel Market Simon Press, who will open the conference, said: “The Chinese outbound travel industry is growing at a phenomenal rate making it one of, if not the, most important market in the world.

“This growth alongside the ever-increasing amount of money the Chinese spend when on holiday, on either shopping or excursions, make the Chinese tourism market one of the most lucrative for destinations.”

Furthermore, Euromonitor International China Analyst Ray Li will say online travel retailing would double in value between 2011 and 2016, driven by a compound annual growth rate over the period of more than 16%. These figures are for intermediaries only and do not include supplier direct bookings.

Low cost carriers will also have a big say in how the market develops over the next five years. The value of low-cost carrier sales will double from 2011’s levels to around $6bn in 2016. This will put pressure on pricing and distribution across the travel sector.

“The growing importance of the Chinese travel industry is why World Travel Market has expanded its WTM Vision Series in to China with WTM Vision Conference – Shanghai,” Press added.

“The WTM Vision series is designed to bring the latest research, statistics and opinion to senior industry leaders to help them run their businesses. The Chinese market is moving at such a fast pace that country’s travel and tourism industry will really benefit from what WTM Vision Conference – Shanghai will bring.”

The 2011 WTM Vision Conference series has taken place in Moscow, London and Dubai (at fellow Reed Travel Exhibitions event Arabian Travel Market). The final event of this year’s series takes place in Florence on May 18.

European Tourism in 2012 – Trends & Prospects (Q1/2012)

Brussels, 4 May 2012.

The European Travel Commission (ETC) has just published its first quarterly report on European Tourism in 2012 - Trends & Prospects. The full report can be downloaded from ETC’s corporate website by clicking here.

The following gives a brief overview of the report for the first quarter of 2012. 

• European travel has exhibited resiliency in the early part of 2012 based on visitor data for the first few

months of the year.

• Air travel demand has also been encouraging, with European airline passenger growth exceeding 5%

through mid-April.

• However, there are signs of mixed performance and slowing throughout Europe.

• While Central and Eastern European destinations have been performing well, quite a number of

Western European destinations have posted declines in hotel occupancy in the first two months of

the year. Overall, a slowdown is evident in hotel occupancy rates in most European sub-regions.

• The global economy is being restrained by a mix of government austerity, household deleveraging,

corporate caution, and high commodity prices.  Meanwhile, data on economic activity indicate that the

Eurozone is in mild recession and concerns are mounting regarding government debt.

• Although only two months of data are available for 2012, relative strength is evident in major European

source markets – implying greater internalising of travel in the region.

• Russia remains a star performer in the early stages of the year. Struggles for the US market are

continuing into this year, while Japan continues its resurgence.

• As a new reference for destination strategy, this report includes a series of market share analyses

for ten of Europe’s largest source markets. These market profiles reveal trends in total outbound travel,

Europe’s share of the market over the past decade, and growth forecasts for each market. For example,

Central and Eastern Europe have gained share of American long haul travel over the past decade, while

Western Europe’s share has declined. However, the opposite shift has been observed for Russian

travellers, with Western Europe destinations gaining share over the past decade.

• Chinese tourist arrivals to Europe reached 4.3 million in 2011, representing 29.7% of the Chinese long

haul outbound market. By 2015, Tourism Economics expects Chinese tourist arrivals to reach 5.7 million,

representing cumulative growth of more than 30% over a four-year period. 

The full report can be downloaded from ETC’s corporate website under the following link:

http://www.etc-corporate.org/market-intelligence/reports-and-studies.html

Virtual Edge Institute (VEI) to Offer Educational Track at America’s Meetings and Events Exhibition (AIBTM)

AIBTM Presents VEI Educational Sessions to Provide Digital Event Strategies 

The Americas Meetings & Events Exhibition (www.aibtm.com) announced today that the Virtual Edge Institute (VEI) will present educational sessions at AIBTM 2012, Reed Travel Exhibitions’ premier provider for the U.S. meetings and events industry.   The three-day networking event, held June 19 – 21 in Baltimore will feature a full day of world-class education, followed by two days of exhibition trade show.

Led by digital event specialist Michael Doyle, Executive Director of the Virtual Edge Institute, the VEI’s track will feature two sessions on June 19 during AIBTM’s Education Day.

This year’s VEI sessions topics are:

·      The Digital Event Landscape:  from Hybrid Extensions to Perpetual Environments (Wednesday, June 20 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. ET)

This is an introductory, interactive session to help event and meeting producers from corporations and associations get up to speed with the latest technology solutions that are available for extending the life and value of physical events. Specific examples will be used as case studies, outlining the business rational as well as tactics and outcomes.

·      Digital Engagement for Onsite and Remote Audiences (Thursday, June 21 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. ET)

If you’ve made the decision to add a digital extension to your programmes, now learn how to make them effective! Engaging an online audience can be challenging but it is also critical for getting the most value out of the meetings experience. Driving engagement and connecting between the online and onsite audience takes the challenge to the next level. This session will examine the strategies for engagement with thoughts from some of the industry’s top engagement strategists.

“We are pleased to announce our partnership with VEI for the educational sessions they will be providing at AIBTM 2012,” said Graeme Barnett, Event Director, Reed Travel Exhibitions, AIBTM (Baltimore) and EIBTM (Barcelona).  “Attendees will leave with a strong understanding of how new technologies are being implemented within the industry in order to extend event programmes and digitally engage different audiences.  These sessions, complimented by AIBTM’s Future Events Experience Area, will help further show the valuable need for the advancement of technology in the meetings industry.”

“We are thrilled to offer an educational track at AIBTM 2012,” added Executive Director of the Virtual Edge Institute, Michael Doyle.  “We look forward to providing corporate, association and government planners with practical methodologies for planning and executing new technologies and strategies.  ”

VEI joins other AIBTM Association partners for AIBTM Education Day, which is comprised of a series of conferences, forums and workshops.  Other partners include the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA), the Society of Incentive Travel Executives (SITE), the Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE), the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and the Meeting Professionals International (MPI).

Multiple concurrent events ensure there are tracks for all types and levels of planners, as well as buyers and industry leaders participating in CEO panels and keynote speaker sessions.  PCMA will deliver Education Powered by PCMA, Executive Edge and a State of the Industry Panel.  ACTE will present an education track dedicated to corporate travel professionals on how to make the most of face time and developing technology to best enhance the corporate travel experience.  ICCA will provide two roundtable sessions focused on how global destinations can penetrate the U.S. market and practical advice for North American planners for global meetings.  Additionally, SITE will deliver invigorating education tailored to the incentive market and host the SITE Young Leaders program focusing on the next generation of motivational leaders. MPI will provide three sessions which will all focus on determining the business value of meetings and events.   AIBTM is also pleased to offer the CEO Summit during the conference.

For more information about ways to attend AIBTM please visit www.aibtm.com/visiting. You can apply for the Hosted Buyer attendance option by filling out the registration form - Hosted Buyer Registration.   Alternatively you can choose the Flexible Choice Option and attend as a Trade Buyer which will permit you access to all education, business and networking opportunities which will take place over the course of the show -Trade Buyer Registration.

AIBTM takes place from 19^th June – 21^st June, 2012.

Join AIBTM on Linked in, Facebook, Twitter and Youtube.

10 best fishing holidays

With Botham on the Fly, Sky Sports’ Tight Lines, and Robson’s Extreme Fishing Challenge on the telly, plus Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, starring Emily Blunt and Ewan McGregor, on at the flicks, we’re hooked on fishing right now. So where are best places on the planet to catch a whopper?

1. Scotland

Scotland is the home of golf, whisky… and salmon. You don’t have to wear top-to-toe tweed and look like an extra from Monarch of the Glen to catch the ‘king of fish’, but it helps. Forget the Yemen and head to the Land of the Brave to fish iconic rivers like the Spey and the Tweed. Take a hip flask of the water of life to keep you warm in your waders.

2. Ireland

Ireland is one of the best countries in Europefor fishing, its rivers and coastal waters full of everything from salmon to bream, trout to pike. And of course, the hospitality is world-famous – there will always be somewhere for you to celebrate landing a whopper.

3. Slovenia

Slovenia is a bit like Scotland: it’s small, it’s got mountains, and its rivers are full of trout. Top of the bucket list for visiting anglers is the marble trout, known, perhaps a little strangely, as ‘the pride of Slovenia’.

4. Iceland

Iceland is the ideal destination for the angler who really wants to get away from it all. Its unique volcanic landscape is a dramatic setting to fish for Atlantic salmon, brown trout and Arctic char under big skies and the midnight sun.

5. South Carolina, USA

If standing all day in a freezing river isn’t your idea of fun, man up a bit: go shark fishing. You’ve got a good chance of a catch at Hilton Head Island in South Carolina, USA – its waters are among the most heavily shark-infested in the world, with a diverse range of from tigers to hammerheads.

6. Northern Territory, Australia

Do a Robson Green and go after Aussie speciality barramundi, a feisty freshwater fish that likes to frolic in mud and puts up quite a fight, making it an enjoyable challenge for the recreational fisherman. Watch out for crocs, however.

7. Vieques, Puerto Rico

Recently made famous in the film version of Hunter S. Thompson’s novel The Rum Diary, the tropical island of Vieques, off the east end of Puerto Rico, is an idyllic place to reel in classic game fish like tarpon and bonefish, without the crowds of more accessible destinations like the Florida Keys.

8. Thailand

Follow in Robson Green’s footsteps and go in search of the legendary giant freshwater stingray in the Mekong, or combine a beach holiday with a spot of sport fishing at the resort of Phuket, whose waters harbour marlin, tuna, wahoo and dorado.

9. Texas, USA

In Texas, bass fishing is as big as a pastime as getting drunk and getting into a fight in the UK. Bag a big, bad bass at Lake Amistad, a massive reservoir in the Rio Grande valley that straddles the border with Mexico.

10. Cuba

Pay your respects to the godfather of big game fishing, Ernest Hemingway, by hunting marlin off Cuba. Hemingway wrote The Old Man and the Sea, the story of an epic battle between an old fisherman and a giant marlin in the Gulf of Mexico. Hemingway is honoured by an annual carnival and fishing tournament near Havana.

Britain’s Best Break: The South West – revealed by Skyscanner

A new poll by Skyscanner has revealed the top UK holiday spots for Brits this summer.

The poll asked over 1000 holidaymakers which part of the UK they would most like to visit this summer. The top choice for Brits is South West England, with 21% of respondents wanting to visit the area. Traditional seaside resorts like Bournemouth and Torquay are popular with families looking for traditional ‘bucket n’ spade’ holidays, while old favourite Cornwall (St Ives, pictured) appeals with its mix of sun, sand, surf and seafood.

The second-most popular destination with holidaymakers was the Highland & Islands of Scotland, which took nearly 15% of the vote. Offering outstanding natural beauty, from lochs and mountains to unspoilt beaches, and outdoor pursuits from mountain biking to skiing, the Highlands & Islands are perfect for getting away from it all and the go-to destination for adrenaline junkies.

With just over 7% of votes, London is in third place, proving that despite warnings of crowds and over-inflated prices this summer, the capital is still a major draw for domestic tourists. The Jubilee and the Olympics will boost numbers considerably, while London boasts world-famous attractions that ensure it will always be a popular destination.

The Channel Islands were voted fourth most popular holiday spot in the UK. Providing a taste of a foreign holiday while still in British territory, the islands offer a mix of British and French influences, beautiful scenery and rich heritage, from yachting favourite Jersey, to car-free Sark.

Skyscanner’s Travel Editor Sam Baldwin comments:

“The UK offers many choices for a great holiday, from building sandcastles in Bournemouth to seeing the sights in London. I spent many happy childhood holidays in Cornwall and Devon, while these days I love to go kayaking and hiking in the Highlands of Scotland.”

Top 10 parts of the UK Brits would most like to visit:

Almost 40% of travellers forge relationships on flights

A new survey of international travellers by Skyscanner has found that 39% of travellers have developed friendships with someone they met on a flight, with 6% even admitting to a romantic liaison with a new acquaintance on-board.

The poll of over 700 flyers found while the majority of these connections were short lived, 5% spent time on holiday together as a direct result of meeting on their flight. Taking their friendship even further, 7% said they continued to stay in touch after their holiday.

Social media also appears to be prolonging these longer-term relationships, with 3% staying in touch on the social network with someone they met on a flight. It is perhaps this point that Dutch national carrier KLM are looking to exploit with their new Facebook app which allows passengers to enter their details and choose who they sit next to on their flight.

Although 57% of people thought the service was ‘weird’ and would not be using it, one in five said they would use the app and an inquisitive 23% also said they would consider using the service.

However, despite the app being dubbed the ‘Mile High app’, the results of the Skyscanner survey actually show that the likelihood of friendship is far greater than that of romance with only 6% admitting to a fling at 30,000 feet and only 2% having a lasting relationship.

Sam Baldwin, Skyscanner’s Travel Editor said: “It’s clear that many travellers want to make more of their travel experience than simply getting from A to B, and our findings show that on-board friendships and romances are now quite common. Part of the fun of travelling is meeting people, and of course this can start on the flight itself!”

New ETC-UNWTO “Study on The Middle East Outbound Travel Market”

3^rd May 2012.  The European Travel Commission (ETC) and the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) have just published a new Study on The Middle East Outbound Travel Market.

The Middle East is one of the smallest, yet fastest-growing, tourist generating regions in the world, with outbound travel quadrupling in the last 20 years. Despite the negative impact of the socio-political unrest in the Middle East on tourism flows, prospects for the sector remain positive. Compiled by ETC/UNWTO, this publication provides an in-depth analysis of the structure and trends of this market, helping destinations and commercial operators plan ahead with greater foresight.

This report (and other saleable publications) can be ordered from the ETC Infoshop:

http://www.etc-corporate.org/market-intelligence/infoshop.html at a cost of € 75.00 (+P&P).

Vilnius Open hosts first IAPCO Seminar in Lithuania

“Vilnius Convention Bureau was proud to host the first IAPCO National Seminar in the country believing that this exceptional training opportunity would provide a substantial amount of practical information and invaluable knowledge to the participants” said Jolanta Beniulienė, Director, Vilnius Convention Bureau.

High ranking presenters from the industry shared their knowledge and expertise with the 50 invited participants who attended the 2½ day training seminar.   Sarah Storie-Pugh, IAPCO;  Patrizia Semprebene Buongiorno, Managing Director, AIM Group International; and Sarah Fitzpatrick, Managing Director, Congrex-UK, combined to form a formidable teaching faculty.

“The IAPCO’s educational programme provided specialist training not only for professional congress organisers and meeting planners, but to all sectors who play a key role in the meeting industry market” continued Jolanta, “The programme was prepared in consultation with the IAPCO Training Academy and I assure you that the participants benefited highly from it”.

MyCEB organises training to boost the business event industry in SE Asia

Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) brought together an impressive ensemble of experienced world-class speakers, namely Mathias Posch, President of the International Conference Services (ICS) Canada, Sarah Storie-Pugh, Administrator, IAPCO, and André Vietor, Managing Director of Viajes Iberia Congresos, Spain, to share their knowledge bringing a wealth of practical experience on a range of hot industry topics particularly in areas that would improve the region’s competitiveness globally in the business tourism market.

The seminar also provided up to 10 hours of continuing education that could be applied towards the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) programme. This is in line with the aim of both IAPCO and MyCEB to encourage conference organizers to acquire international certification.

Zulkefli Hj. Sharif, Chief Executive Officer, MyCEB said, “This was an initiative created by MyCEB together with IAPCO to empower our industry players, especially event planners, with updated knowledge on the global scene of the business events industry. Participants were encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to listen to the dynamic team of experts speaking at this seminar”.

Hotel Rates in Munich Rise Up to 1272% for Champions League Final, Survey Finds

LONDON, May 3, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Chelsea fans who are planning to follow their team to the UEFA Champions League final on May 19 might be in for a shock when looking for a hotel room. With the title game date less than three weeks away, accommodations in the host city of Munich are becoming rather pricey.

To spend the night in the Bavarian capital the day Chelsea goes head to head against Bayern, fans will have to spend close to Euro 500 (GBP 407) for the cheapest available room. That’s the finding of a recent survey conducted by CheapHotels.org, which compared rates across the various hotel-booking sites.

While the vast majority of hotels are sold out on the day of the Champions League final, about a dozen hotels, mainly in the outside districts of Munich, are still listing vacancies. However, because demand far exceeds supply, they’re implementing exorbitant rate hikes.

One case in point is the NH Munchen am Ring. This 3-star accommodation is situated 4 km from Munich’s city centre. Rooms at this establishment regularly go for Euro 84, but come the day of the CL final, they’ll soar to Euro 824. That figure equates to an 880% increase.

The NH Munchen am Ring is not the biggest price gouger, though. That honour goes to the Eurostars Grand Central, a 4-star hotel near Munich Central Station. Normally posting room rates of Euro 111, this accommodation is charging Euro 1523 the night of May 19, or a staggering 1272% more than usual.

Alas, staying anywhere in Munich won’t come cheaply. Indeed, the lowest-priced double room currently available is priced at Euro 499, with single rooms a bit cheaper. There is an affordable workaround for bargain hunters, however. If they are willing to stay in the neighbouring city of Augsburg, which is connected to Munich by direct train, they can secure a double room for around Euro 100 per night and arrive at the final in under an hour. They don’t have to worry about getting stranded if the game runs late either. Trains run until 3:00 in the morning.

For more information about this survey, visit http://www.cheaphotels.org/press/cl-2012.html

Tourism Leaders of the Middle East reiterate confidence in the sector

Ministers of Tourism and leading tourism companies from the Middle East and North Africa reiterated their confidence in the growth of tourism in the region during the first UNWTO/Arabian Travel Market Industry Forum (Dubai, 30 April 2012).

Entitled The Future of Tourism in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA): Ensuring sustainable growth in challenging times, the forum debated short and long term prospects for tourism in the region, stressing the encouraging signs emerging from destinations affected by the political changes of last year as well as the on-going strong expansion plans of tourism infrastructure in the countries of the Gulf.

Participants in the forum reiterated their confidence in the growth of tourism in the region, where the sector has become a key pillar of local economies and employment and a central part of national development policies.

Moderated by John Andrews, Editor for The Economist and one of its most experienced foreign correspondents, the forum counted on the participation of H.R.H. Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdul-Aziz Al-Saud, President and Chairman of the Board of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities, Mounir Fakhry Abdel Nour, Minister of Tourism of Egypt, Ahmed Abdulla Al-Nuaimi, Chairman of Qatar Tourism Authority, Mohammed Rashed, Chief Executive Officer, Hotel and Tourism Sector of the Al Kharafi Group, Gerald Lawless, Executive Chairman of the Jumeirah Group  and Frederic Bardin, Senior Vice President of Emirates Holidays.

UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai said: “Despite recurrent challenges, the story of tourism in the Middle East and North Africa is one of success. The sector has become an economic powerhouse for the region, generating US$60 billion in export earnings and creating millions of jobs. This outstanding performance is the result of strong and committed public tourism policies aimed at diversifying national economies and create much needed jobs, especially for the youth, and strong private sector investment. These conditions remain unaltered”.

Reed Travel Exhibitions Managing Director, Richard Mortimore said: “The launch of this high-level forum could not come at a more opportune moment. It is a sign of the importance of tourism to the region that this high-profile group of ministers and industry leaders have come to share a platform at Arabian Travel Market, the region’s premier travel trade exhibition. It is sure to prove to be as successful and as influential as the well-established UNWTO and WTM Ministers’ Summit has been at fellow Reed Travel Exhibitions event World Travel Market over the past five years.”

The need for the region’s key players to work together in order to achieve a greater share of the global pie, was a key theme of the summit, with the Undersecretary of Oman’s Ministry of Tourism, Maitha Al Mahrouqi, saying: “I don’t see us [Oman] competing with the UAE, we are complementing the UAE.”

“We need to work with other industries to make the whole touristic experience a pleasure,” added Egypt’s Minister of Tourism, Mounir Fakhry Abdel Nour.

While examples of visa facilitation exist in the region – Oman has a joint tourist visa arrangement with Qatar, the panel also flagged the need for the opening up of the visa system within the region. “A common electronic visa platform would actually enhance security – not decrease it – and facilitate smoother travel globally,” said Gerald Lawless, Executive Chairman of the Jumeirah Group.

The UNWTO/Arabian Travel Market Industry Forum brought together ministers as well as travel industry leaders from the region to discuss how to boost demand and foster employment under challenging economic and political conditions. International tourist arrivals in the MENA region rose from 34 million in 2000 to 79 million in 2010, making the region one of the fastest growing tourism destinations worldwide. In 2011, the region lost some seven million tourists, in spite of the good performance of some destinations.

In 2010, international tourist arrivals to the Middle East and North Africa were at 79 million (60 million in the Middle East and 19 million in North Africa). Receipts from international tourism reached US$ 60 billion (US$ 50 billion in the Middle East and US$ 10 billion in North Africa) in 2010. In 2011, due to recent political development, international tourist arrivals to the Middle East were down by 8% to 55 million and to North Africa by 10% to 17 million.

Americas’ Leading Industry Speakers to Appear at AIBTM

Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA), has outlined the content for its education programme at this year’s AIBTM, the Americas Meetings and Events Exhibitions (www.aibtm.com) – a compelling line up of speakers will deliver education “Powered by PCMA” sessions.

Deborah Sexton, President & CEO of PCMA stated: “By partnering with PCMA, AIBTM ensures attendees will get the best of both worlds – innovative education and creative global solutions to enhance their organisation’s face-to-face connections, as well as a show floor featuring over 1,000 global and domestic companies.”

Leading speakers for Tuesday’s Education Programme include Carolyn Pund, CMP, CMM, Senior Global Strategic Meetings Manager, Cisco Systems, Inc. who will share her insight and knowledge when it comes to developing Strategic Meetings Management Programs (SMMP) in the session “SMMP Beyond Theory: Foundational Elements of Partnerships and Policy”. This hour-long session will demonstrate the value of policy and partnerships and describe the roles of internal and external partnerships and their fundamental importance to the overall success of a Corporate SMM program.

Brendan McLoughlin, Chief Marketing Officer, Learner’s Digest International will deliver a structured seminar “Medical Societies: Enduring Content Expands Reach and Generates Non-Dues Revenue” which will explore a strategic planning approach to identify opportunities for generating additional value from your meetings and a roadmap on how to implement them. Medical meeting case studies and group exercises will make the session creatively stimulating and immediately actionable.

“Delivering Meetings that Meet Your Organization’s Strategic Plan” will be a panel debate moderated by Gregg H. Talley, FASAE, CAE, President & CEO, Talley Management Group. In this session association CEOs will partner with their meeting professionals for a vibrant discussion of successes and challenges, and the meeting planner’s advancement to strategic thinker and the impact on moving up the organisational ladder.

The PCMA Chesapeake Chapter will present “Creating a New Trade Show Floor Experience” with Melinda Kendall, Vice President, Freeman. This interactive session will explore new approaches to developing unique selling propositions for interactive, theme-based show floors and launching bold new expo plans – connecting exhibitors and attendees while generating new exhibitor and sponsorship revenue.

Additionally, PCMA has partnered with Wharton School of Business, one of the world’s leading business schools, to deliver a full day, invitation-only PCMA Executive Edge. Jim Austin, a former senior executive at Baxter Healthcare with expertise in business strategy and organisational change, will provide meeting professionals the strategic perspective and personal confidence in their decision-making to maximize their capability of handling scenario planning, with deliberate contribution, impact and influence.

Erica Keogan, Global Education Content Manager, IBTM Global Events Portfolio, Reed Travel Exhibitions commented: “These sessions will be driven by some of America’s most thought provoking speakers; designed by PCMA, around key topics and trends that are priorities for the industry now and in the future.”

The content for AIBTM’s America Meetings Week and AIBTM’s Professional Education Programme for 2012, will be delivered in conjunction with other leading industry associations including SITE, ACTE, ICCA and MPI. For further information and for a full Education Programme outline please visit http://www.aibtm.com/Education-Program/ 

For more information about ways to attend AIBTM please visit www.aibtm.com/visiting. You can apply for the Hosted Buyer attendance option by filling out the registration form -http://www.reedexpovip.com/profile/web/index.cfm?PKWebId=0x381a09c.    Alternatively you can chose the Flexible Choice Option and attend as a Trade Buyer which will permit you access to all education, business and networking opportunities which will take place over the course of the show - https://www.compusystems.com/servlet/ar?evt_uid=745&campaigncode=CampGE

AIBTM takes place from 19^th June – 21^st June, 2012.

Turkey is at risk of losing title of most popular destination for Siberians

Increased number of flights to Thailand, Crete, Vietnam and Majorca.

Tour operators have agreed with airlines to decline the number of flights twice from Novosibirsk to Turkey in the summer program of flights. The title of the most popular resort for Siberians gradually moves to Thailand, the Chairman of the Board of Novosibirsk Association of Tour Operators, Igor Solovyev said.

“Number of flights to Turkey has been reduced. From my point of view, this shows that the market is finally becoming more balanced and tour operators are beginning to bring demand and supply into correlation to make it beneficial to all parties,” – he said.

In summer 2011 we had 20-22 flights from Novosibirsk to Antalya per week. This year, according to current data, there will be only about 12-13 flights. “But the holy place is never empty. The number of flights to Thailand has increased. Previously only one airline was flying there, and now three companies have began to fly to this destination. In addition, we’ve got an increase in number of flights to Crete and first summer flights to Vietnam. We also plan to launch direct flights from Novosibirsk to Majorca, “- Solovyev said.

Chairman of the Regional Committee of Foreign Economic Cooperation, Dmitry Mikitchenko called redirection of tourist flow from Turkey to Thailand logical due to last actions of Turkish party towards Russians and other visitors.

Solovyev said that tour costs this year increased by about 10% for all destinations compared to last year. He believes that price dumping should not affect the tourist industry. The expert also informed that S7 Airlines, the basic airline of the Tolmachevo Airport in Novosibirsk, gradually leaves the West Siberian market. www.atorus.ru

IMEX America expands its ‘Smart Monday’ pre-show educational day in response to market demand

Following the successful launch of global meetings, incentive travel and events industry trade show, IMEX America, last October in Las Vegas, organizers have announced developments to the format and content of ‘Smart Monday’, its pre-show, one-day educational event (Monday Oct. 08).

The free, pre-show day of professional education has been developed to become Smart Monday, “Powered by MPI”.  Meeting Professionals International (MPI) is IMEX America’s strategic partner and premier educational provider. This new name demonstrates MPI’s crucial role in providing the majority of content on Monday, Oct. 08 while also signalling the combined involvement and educational contribution of other important and influential associations including: ASAE, ACTE, ISES, ICCA, PCMA, Site and IAEE, who will be holding a CEM Program on the day.

Smart Monday, ”Powered by MPI”, will include a morning keynote and all day sessions which will cover topics including strategic meetings management, social media, leadership, sustainability, personal development, incentive travel, technology trends and international meetings management.

Carina Bauer, CEO of organizers, the IMEX Group explains: “We had such a positive response to Smart Monday last year with over 1,200 people attending which has really inspired us in our planning for this year’s event. This year, Smart Monday, “Powered by MPI”, really does offer exceptional value and diversity of education and there will be something for everyone, regardless of job title or association membership.

“MPI’s 12 educational sessions are a key part of the day – the backbone if you like – but we are also emphasizing the incredible scope and quality of all the education and networking on offer by other participating associations.   Last year industry professionals were delighted – and perhaps a little surprised – when they realised how strong the education program was.  Now that the concept is well established and we have proven there is strong demand, we are really excited to be planning for 2012 and taking steps to develop it even further,” states Bauer.

Alongside innovative and inspiring education from MPI (which will be open to members and non-members), Smart Monday, “Powered by MPI”, will offer specialist education sessions from many other associations. All of it will be provided free of charge to both buyers and suppliers regardless of their association membership or status.

Association Day becomes part of Smart Monday, “Powered by MPI”
The IMEX America Association Day, which provides education dedicated specifically to the challenges and issues facing association meeting executives, also becomes core to Smart Monday, “Powered by MPI”.  Association Day is a key part of the specialist offering which IMEX America provides for association planners – whether attending as hosted buyers, or as buyer attendees. This unique event offers a specialist ‘conference within a conference’ on Monday exclusively for association planners and gives them an opportunity to network with and learn from each other in a private environment, with topics dedicated to their needs. Suppliers can meet these planners at the Association Evening which is being sponsored by IMEX America’s Headquarters Hotel – The Venetian®| The Palazzo®.

Several other large, co-located events are set to attract industry professionals throughout the week, including MPI’s Foundation Rendezvous on Wednesday Oct. 10 and Site Nite North America, which will round off Smart Monday, “Powered by MPI”, on Oct. 08.

Buyers and suppliers can pre-register their interest in IMEX America here. Registration will be opening in May. Room bookings at IMEX America’s Headquarters Hotel – The Venetian®| The Palazzo® are also now open.

Tourism and the media join forces to support the sector in challenging times

Leading media representatives met with tourism players in Egypt to explore how to develop more effective relations, particularly in times of crisis (Marsa Alam, Egypt, 26-27 April 2012).

“What drives tourism is the perception the traveler has of a destination. Fair reporting of both the negative and the positive will play a vital role in the recovery of Egyptian tourism,” said Egypt’s tourism minister, Mounir Fakhry Abdel-Nour, as he opened the Conference.

The two-day meeting, Partnering with the Media in Challenging Times, is the second in UNWTO’s series of conferences on the relationship between tourism and the media. Organized in collaboration with the Egyptian Tourism Authority (ETA), and with CNN as media partner, the conferences aim to increase awareness of tourism among the mainstream media and forge closer relations between the two.

Stressing the potential role of the media in communicating tourism’s contribution to development, UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai, said he was greatly encouraged that participants had come together to explore opportunities for strengthened outreach.

“A staggering one billion tourists will travel abroad in 2012. Tourism has become a truly global socio-economic phenomenon which is not yet fully reflected in the media,” said Mr. Rifai. “We believe that to maximize the potential of tourism as a true driver of development and wellbeing for all we need to bring tourism administrations, the private sector and the media closer together.”

Tony Blair, Quartet Representative to the Middle East, highlighted the role of the media in addressing misperceptions in a special message to the Conference. “Tourism is undoubtedly a bright spot and a vital contributor to the process of economic development,” he said. “But one of the misperceptions we have to deal with is that places, such as Palestine, are dangerous, when in fact the numbers simply do not bear this out.”

Sessions at the Conference provided participants with practical tools for more efficient media relations, ranging from how to plan the appropriate social media strategy to response protocol in times of crises.

Tourism is a mainstay of the Egyptian economy, representing 30% of the country’s exports and employing 16 million people. While international tourist arrivals were down in 2011, at 9.5 million compared to 14 million in 2010, Egypt remained the second most visited country in the Middle East. Results for the first few months of 2012 show encouraging results, “excellent news for both the economy and the strengthening of the political processes underway,” said Mr. Rifai.

Middle East’s leading brands compete in Dubai for ultimate travel accolade

The Middle East’s most successful travel brands are set to be acknowledged at a glittering gala ceremony hosted by World Travel Awards (WTA) at Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa on Monday 30 April 2012.

The likes of Jumeirah, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Armani Hotel Dubai, Qatar Airways, Emirates Palace and Rotana Hotels are among those in the running for top honours.

Lebanese singing sensation Carole Samaha will headline the show, with the critically-acclaimed comedian Wonho Chung also set to perform. Ece Vahapoğlu of Al Jazeera Turkey will anchor proceedings.

More than 500 of the most important decision-makers in the region’s travel and tourism sector, as well as a host of international media, are set to attend what will be the most important night of the year for Arabian travel.

The WTA awards programme, hailed as the ‘Oscars of the travel industry’ by the global media, highlights and rewards those travel brands that have made the greatest contribution to the industry over the past year.

After a fierce round of voting featuring more than 2,000 organisations, the nominees have been whittled down to the elite few.

Categories to watch include “Middle East’s Leading Destination” with Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia in contention. Competition for “Middle East’s Leading Hotel” is expected to be fierce, with Emirates Palace (Abu Dhabi), Burj Al Arab (Dubai), Six Senses Zighy Bay (Oman) and the Ritz-Carlton Doha (Qatar) among those going head-to-head.

Graham E. Cooke, President & Founder, WTA, underlines the core strengths of the Middle East nominees.

He says: “Travel and tourism in the Middle East is rebounding strongly following the political and economic challenges of 2011. The winners at our ceremony will be those organisations that have made the greatest contribution to this recovery.”

“I am delighted that we will be returning to Dubai for what promises to be the most exciting and competitive Middle East Ceremony yet. The emirate is a hotbed of fresh ideas being put into practice, as exemplified by our host, Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa,” he adds.

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa is the flagship resort of Jebel Ali International Hotels, and consists of two five-star properties, Palm Tree Court & Spa, which has recently undergone a full refurbishment, and Jebel Ali Hotel, which offers views over the Arabian Gulf and a championship-standard nine-hole golf course.

David Thomson, Regional General Manager of Jebel Ali International Hotels expresses his pleasure at hosting the event, saying: “We are delighted that the leaders of the Middle East travel industry will celebrate their achievements at Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa this Monday. The awards are an accurate representation of excellence and it is a true honour to be nominated alongside other leading hotel groups.”

The evening coincides with Arabian Hotel Investment Conference (28-30 April) and Arabian Travel Market (30 April – 3 May), which are both taking place in Dubai.

Other regional heats in WTA’s Grand Tour 2012 will be taking place in the Algarve (Portugal), Nairobi (Kenya), Singapore and Turks & Caicos. The winners of these regional heats will progress to the Grand Final, which will take place at The Oberoi, Gurgaon, New Delhi, India on 12 December 2012.

7 of the world’s top shipwrecks

With Titanic Belfast drawing the crowds and Titanic 3D on the silver screen, see some amazing shipwrecks for real. We show you where to get wrecked with 7 of the world’s best.

1. The Titanic, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Celebrate the centenary year of the launching of the legendary liner by visiting the £100 million Titanic Belfast exhibition which opened on 31 March. Discover the story of the most famous ship in history in the place where it was built, from its birth in boomtown Belfast to its resting place on the seabed.

2. The Mary Rose, Portsmouth,England

The Mary Rose, somewhat bizarrely, sank accidently while doing battle with the dastardly French fleet in 1545. Dramatically raised from the depths in 1982, the Rose went on display in Portsmouth, but it is currently under wraps. You’ll be able to see her again later this year when a new Mary Rose museum opens. Apparently you can meet the crew - presumably not the original crew?

3. The Eduard Bohlen, Namibia

The 1600km-long Namib Desert in southern Africa is the world’s oldest desert. Fascinating! It’s also a pretty weird place. One of its weirdest features is the wreck of the Eduard Bohlen, which thanks to shifting sands now lies in dunes a quarter of a mile inland. In 1909 it ran aground in the thick fog that has been the cause of many shipwrecks, hence the appropriate name of this part of the world – the Skeleton Coast.

4. USS Arizona, Hawaii, USA

For fans of military history, and Ben Affleck’s finest hour but for Armageddon, a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbour, Oahu, Hawaii, is a must. Built on the water over the wreck of the battleship USS Arizona, scuppered in the Japanese attack on December 7, 1941, the site is a poignant memorial to that fateful day in history.

5. Shipwreck Bay, Greece

It’s got several names – Navagio, Shipwreck Bay or Smugglers’ Cove (which sounds like a pirate ship-themed kids’ adventure playground in Disneyland… and actually, it is), but whatever it’s called, it’s a proper stunning beach on the island of Zakynthos. The beach boasts an unusual feature – the wreck of a drug smugglers’ boat abandoned when they fled the Greek navy. Fans of Greek drug boats should also check da wreck at Laconia in the Peloponnese.

6. Zenobia, Larnaca, Cyprus

Some might say that the only way to get completely wrecked is to go diving – as in scuba diving. The Zenobia is up there in any wreck divers’ top 10. Close to Larnaca in Cyprus, it’s easily accessible. Why not combine it with a family holiday? The kids can splash about in the shallows while you explore the Zenobia, which sank on her first voyage in 1980 with 104 articulated lorries on board.

7. Moynaq, Uzbekistan

There’s not just one wreck, but many in Moynaq – the name of a once-thriving fishing port on the Aral Sea in Uzbekistan. What was once the fourth-largest inland sea, shrank by 90% when two rivers that fed the sea were diverted for irrigation and the water evaporated, leaving boats quite literally, high and dry.

Skyscanner reveals the perfect seat – 6A

With easyJet now trialling bookable seats, a new poll by Skyscanner reveals which seat most passengers are actually vying for.

The poll of over 1000 airline passengers questioned respondents on their seat preferences (aside from extra legroom seats) including which section and whether they chose window, middle or aisle seats.  The poll also delved deeper to find out if choices were influenced by lucky numbers as well as odd or even row numbers.  Combining these responses Skyscanner can reveal that the most sought after seat on a standard aircraft is seat 6A.

This survey supports previous studies which have found that the front six rows of the plane are the most popular, taking 45% of the votes, a fact easyJet are obviously aware of as booking seats in this section of the aircraft is actually £8 instead of the standard £3 charged to pre-book seats in any other section.

Perhaps more surprising was the number of passengers who prefer the window seat – almost 60% – compared to just 40% who opt for the aisle, with less than 1% choosing the middle seat.

The ‘worst’ seat?

At the other end of the scale, the survey found that the seat no-one wanted was 31E, a middle seat towards the back of the aircraft.

Skyscanner’s Travel Editor, Sam Baldwin comments, “There is always a great rush to get on board and get that favoured seat and I think it is really interesting that there are so many differing opinions on this.

“Anecdotally some passengers seem to opt for the middle section near the wings where they are less likely to feel turbulence while others want to be near the front for ease of getting off the plane, less engine noise or even to get a better choice of food available.  The window seems a popular choice for those looking to sleep, especially for long haul flights, while those who take more trips to the toilet prefer to aisle so as not to disturb fellow passengers and the aisle is also popular for tall passengers looking to stretch their legs.  Frequent fliers have also reported that the left hand side of the plane is best as the windows are off centre, allowing for wall space to lean on”.

“I just hope that the low cost carriers don’t find out that there is such demand for seat 6A and start charging a premium for it!”

Middle East Tourism Ministers to gather at high level forum to discuss how to move the sector forward

What: UNWTO & ATM Industry Forum, Future of Tourism in the Middle East and North Africa: Ensuring sustainable growth in challenging times,
When: Monday, 30 April 2012 (15.00)
Where: Arabian Travel Market, Al Multaqua Ballroom, Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre.

Tourism ministers and travel industry leaders from across the Middle East will meet at the UNWTO & Arabian Travel Market Industry Forum in a first-of-its-kind event to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing tourism in region the years ahead.

Topics on the agenda include how to sustain and boost tourism demand, foster employment and future plans for investment in infrastructure around the Middle East. The forum is to be moderated by John Andrews, a consultant editor for The Economist and one of its most experienced foreign correspondents.
The event will be opened by UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai and by Reed Travel Exhibitions Managing Director, Reed Richard Mortimore.

Confirmed public sector speakers the UNWTO & Arabian Travel Market Industry Forum, entitled The Future of Tourism in the Middle East and North Africa: Ensuring sustainable growth in challenging times, include:
· His Excellency Mr. Mounir Abdel Nour, Minister of Tourism, Egypt
· His Excellency Mr. Nayef H. Al-Fayez, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Jordan
· His Excellency Mr. Ahmed bin Nasser bin Hamad Al Mehrzi, Minister of Tourism, Oman
· His Excellency Mr. Ahmed Abdulla Al-Nuaimi, Qatar

Alongside tourism ministers from across the region, chief executives of major companies will also take part in the forum. Among those joining ministers will be Mohammed Rashed, Chief Executive Officer, Hotel and Tourism Sector of the Al Kharafi Group; Gerald Lawless, Executive Chairman of the Jumeirah Group Dubai as well as Frederic Bardin, Senior Vice President of Emirates Holidays.

The forum, which takes place on Monday 30th April 2012 at Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, is a sister event to the successful UNWTO & World Travel Market Ministers’ Summit, which has been run for the past five years. The Ministers’ Summit regularly attracts up to 100 tourism ministers and aides to London to discuss the most important issues affecting the tourism sector around the world.

Emirates says “Hello Tomorrow” at Arabian Travel Market

DUBAI, U.A.E., 26 April 2012:  Emirates – the Official Airline of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) – will be calling all ‘Globalistas’ at the exhibition this year, with a spectacular showcase of its new “Hello Tomorrow” global brand platform and the introduction of exciting interactive and digital features to its iconic Emirates Globe stand.

When the annual travel exhibition gets underway on Monday, 30 April, visitors to the Emirates stand will be wowed by a striking visual display manifesting the spirit of ‘Globalistas’ – individuals who are living and championing the global lifestyle enabled by Emirates.  The 3min showcase will be played out continuously throughout the exhibition across 30 screens wrapping the colossal 9.2m structure at Emirates stand # UAE1210, located in Hall 3.

The vibrant display, which explores different themes synonymous with a global lifestyle such as travel, culture and language, has been produced in celebration of Emirates’ 19th year at ATM and the recent launch of the company’s global “Hello Tomorrow” brand platform.

“Hello Tomorrow” seeks to position Emirates as the enabler of global connectivity and meaningful experiences, as the company continues its evolution from a travel brand to a global lifestyle brand.

In addition to this stunning showcase, regular guests at ATM will also notice a range of new interactive features that have been introduced to the Globe this year. Digital displays will replace traditional brochure stands on the outer edges of the platform, inviting visitors to search and vote for their favourite Emirates destinations through an interactive world map.

The 40in displays will also link straight to the new Emirates Facebook page, which, since its launch in late March, has already nearly 400,000 fans and currently ranks as the number one airline on the social networking site in the MENA region.

“Since our last appearance at ATM, Emirates has made great strides towards achieving our vision for the future growth of the airline and we look forward to sharing these with the industry”, said Thierry Antinori, Executive Vice President, Passenger Sales Worldwide, Emirates airline. “Our new “Hello Tomorrow” brand platform takes centre stage on Emirates Globe this year, following its successful launch around the world and its significance in positioning Emirates as the enabler of global connectivity and meaningful experiences.

“Every year, ATM brings together key industry figures from six continents and this remains a fantastic platform for us to showcase our plans and ambitions, as well as reaffirm our commitment to the regional travel industry.”

Emirates, which now flies to 123 destinations in 73 countries, has significantly expanded its global reach since its previous year at ATM through the launch of 11 new destinations – Geneva, Copenhagen, St Petersburg, Baghdad, Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Dublin, Lusaka, Harare, Dallas and, most recently, Seattle.

In addition, four other route launches – Ho Chi Minh City, Barcelona, Lisbon and Washington – are in the pipeline between now and September 2012, and the Emirates rapidly growing fleet is expected to reach 175 aircraft by the end of May 2012.

In addition to our destinations, visitors to Emirates stand will also be able to find out the latest information on the company’s initiatives and businesses  including Skywards, Emirates’ frequent flyer programme; Emirates Holidays, the tour-operating arm of the airline; Arabian Adventures, the leading destination management company in the Middle East; and Congress Solutions International, which is a full-service professional congress organiser.

Barbican staff don running shoes for charity

Team run Virgin London Marathon in aid of Lord Mayor’s Appeal. 

Seven Barbican employees donned their running shoes in aid of charity at the weekend. The runners participated in the Virgin London Marathon as a part of the City of London team, alongside 18 colleagues, to raise money for a number of charitable causes.

Lee Dobson, Nick Haslam and George Sampson were all running in the 26.2 mile course for the third time. Both Lee and Nick produced personal bests (3:32.11 and 3:58.13 respectively) while George completed in 5:19.15. Running the marathon for the first time were; Emma Barrow (5:07.54), Sarah Wall (5:47.45), Pip Swindall (6:27.05) and Ben Yates (6:27.05).

The City of London team were running to raise money for the Lord Mayor’s Appeal. Charities supported by the 2012 appeal are Barts and The London Charity on behalf of the Trauma Unit at The Royal London Hospital, the Rowing Foundation, London Youth Rowing, Fields in Trust and Futures for Kids.

Following the marathon, Lord Mayor David Wootton, thanked the team for their charitable efforts. He said: “I would like to extend my heartiest congratulations to you for taking part in this year’s London Marathon and flying the flag for the City of London. I know from speaking with many of you at Mansion House last month just how much commitment and personal sacrifice is involved. I do hope you agree that it was all worth it. My particular thanks for all your efforts in raising money for a number of worthy causes, both in London and beyond. Specifically I would like to thank you for all the money you have raised for my own Lord Mayor’s Appeal. I can assure you that this money is very much appreciated and will be put to good use.”

Next month Lee Dobson will be participating in a cycle ride from the Guildhall, in London, to Cambridge to raise further funds for the Mayor’s Appeal. The City of London Cycle Challenge, on Saturday May 19th, will cover the distance of 68.4 miles to honour The Lord Mayor. The event will raise money to support the ‘Fit for the Future’ appeal which promotes better health opportunities for all, including those from some of the UK’s most deprived areas.

Fierce competition predicted if companies are to beat a stagnant market

Travel firms are preparing for a fierce battle in a bid to secure growth over the next five years; it was predicted at WTM Vision Conference –London. 

Euromonitor International Head of Travel and Tourism Research Caroline Bremner told senior industry delegates, at the event organised by Reed Travel Exhibition’s event World Travel Market, that growth in the travel sector would be flat for the next five years. 

She said this would be part of a global trend which will see a combination of price pressure and falling and stagnating incomes combine to depress growth in the sector. 

Instead, Expedia Managing Director UK and Ireland Andy Washington said if companies wanted to continue to grow, they would have to do so at each others’ expense. 

He added the online travel agency saw double digit growth last year and he is intent on filing similar results for 2012. 

He said: “For Expedia we look for growth across the global markets and we intend to do that. 

“10% growth should continue online and it is going to be from taking market share of competitors by being better, smarter and fulfilling the consumers’ demands.” 

Tui Travel UK and Ireland Managing Director David Burling said the “most dramatic” growth the operator has recently seen has been in the all-inclusive sector, largely thanks to families. 

While refusing to predict figures for this year he said the operator would continue to focus on investing in technology and product exclusivity. 

He added: “The key thing for us is the quality of our business.” 

easyJet Director UK Market Paul Simmons admitted growth would be reduced compared to last year, but still predicted the airline would see a single-digit increase. 

He said: “The trading environment is difficult but not impossible; we need to make sure people are stimulated and want to travel.” 

The Hoseasons Group Managing Director Geoff Cowley said the challenge for the UK market would be to continue re-educating UK travellers on the improvements made in the domestic market as well as benefit from the feel-good factor generated by both the Olympics and the Diamond Jubilee. 

He added: “Part of the challenge now is to continue educating the customers about how the quality of the accommodation has improved.” 

Reed Travel Exhibitions Director World Travel Market Simon Press said: “It was great to hear not only the in-depth analysis that Euromonitor International provided but also the conversations it triggered. 

“With growth predicted to flatline for the next five years, travel companies will not only have to compete but innovate if they are to grow successfully. 

“I was also delighted to see so many senior industry delegates attend WTM Vision Conference – London and see them so involved in the event too.”

HBAA in a Boat, the full crew line up revealed

David Taylor Head of Meetings & Events (UK&I Managed Estate) IHG, and Ricky Kapoor, Commercial Director of Hotel World Plus are the latest faces to join HBAA’s fundraising event raising money for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).

On 2nd May, seven participants will board an RNLI training boat at the port of Poole and be left floating in the middle of the sea until a target figure is reached in donations. The crew will hold tightly to their life jackets and mobile phones while appealing to their industry contacts, work colleagues, friends and family to help them make it back to the shore.

David Taylor, Intercontinental Hotel Group said; “I am pleased to support and be involved in the HBAA fundraising initiative as I join other industry colleagues adrift in the Channel with the only hope of rescue being the amount of money we can raise for a great cause. If we raise enough, we can look forward to being rescued. If not, it could be a long day, especially if Ricky is feeling the cold!
“With our luck, it will be wet, cold and windy and that’s a walk in the park for what the RNLI have to deal with. RNLI receives no government funding, and is entirely reliant on charitable donations. So help us make it back to the warmth of a warm bar and a welcome hot chocolate. Your donations and support will be very welcome and will help support a charity which gives selfless courage and dedication of brave lifeboat crews, for those in distress at sea.”

Ricky Kapoor, commercial director of Hotel World Plus commented; “I am delighted to join my HBAA colleagues supporting the RNLI on what will be an eventful day out in trying to raise as much money as we can. The RNLI charity is such a worthy cause and I think it is also very important in raising the awareness of the hard work that RNLI do in saving lives at sea.”

For regular updates on the ‘HBAA in a Boat’ funds raised for the RNLI, follow the event’s official hashtag #HBAAinaboat.
The HBAA welcomes donations on the association’s fundraising page www.virginmoneygiving.com/hbaa

Traffic surges 15.4 per cent at Dubai International in March

Airport registers third consecutive month with more than 4.5 million passengers

Dubai, UAE -  April 25, 2012 – Passenger traffic at Dubai International, the world’s fourth busiest hub for international passengers and freight, continued its double-digit growth for the third consecutive month according to the monthly traffic report for March issued by Dubai Airports on Wednesday.

Passenger traffic in March reached 4,848,320, an increase of 15.4 per cent compared to 4,201,708 during the corresponding month in 2011. March is the third consecutive month for Dubai International with passenger numbers exceeding the 4.5 million mark, propelling traffic in the first quarter to 14,261,606, a surge of 16.1 per cent over the same period last year.

Buoyed by traffic growth in the region following the increasing liberalisation of the Saudi Arabian aviation sector, the AGCC continued to top the list of regions with the largest increase in total passenger numbers (+174,537 passengers), followed by Western Europe (+109,364), and Africa (+90,057). Contraction on Middle Eastern routes continued in March (-23,030 passengers) owing to instability in certain parts of the region. South America has remained the strongest market in terms of percentage passenger growth* (+90.9 per cent) as a result of new Emirates services to Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires, followed by Russia and CIS (+47.4 per cent), and Australasia (+40.7 per cent). Traffic to and from Africa also rose dramatically (+25.7 per cent) due to the addition of Harare and Lusaka to Emirates’ route network.

During the month under review, Dubai International recorded a total of 29,276 aircraft movements, up 5.8 per cent compared to 27,674 in March 2011. The year to date movements increased 7.9 per cent to reach 86,014, compared to 79,705 recorded during the first quarter in 2011.

Dubai International handled 186,417 tonnes of cargo in March 2012 compared to 185,921 tonnes in March 2011, up 0.3 per cent. Cargo volumes during the first quarter rose slightly with freight volumes reaching 517,440 tonnes, an increase of 1.1 per cent compared to 512,057 tonnes during the corresponding period in 2011.

“New routes and additional frequencies are building on the magnetic attraction of Dubai’s hub as a premier leisure and business destination and a convenient connecting point for global travellers,” said Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports. “As growth continues to pick up in almost all markets, both traditional and new, the outlook for the second quarter is similarly positive.”

Tourism can stimulate trade and development, agrees UN Conference

Participants at a major United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD XIII) have underscored the role of tourism as a vital service sector, contributing to GDP and employment in developed and developing countries alike (Doha, Qatar, 21-26 April 2012).

The theme of UNCTAD XIII, Development-Centered Globalization: Towards Inclusive and Sustainable Growth and Development, focuses on how the global economy can spread its benefits more inclusively and sustainably, creating jobs and raising living standards for poor people and nations.

Currently ranking among the top three export sectors for nearly half of the world’s least developed countries (LDCs), tourism has emerged as one of the economic sectors best able to address these concerns. With tourism growth rates in developing countries currently outperforming those in developed countries, tourism today is one of the most promising and viable options for global development.

“It is encouraging to see that the contribution of tourism to development, poverty reduction and economic growth is increasingly recognized. This can only be achieved by better policy coherence between and among the various ministries and government departments that provide the enabling environment for tourism to flourish,” said UNCTAD Secretary-General, Supachai Panitchpakdi.

At two separate events UN officials, high-level policy-makers, representatives of the tourism private sector and other stakeholders, gathered on the sidelines of UNCTAD XIII to deliberate on the critical role of tourism in national development strategies.

The Global Services Forum – organized to discuss developments in the services sector, which currently accounts for 50% of the GDP of developing countries – pointed to the many growth and employment opportunities of tourism as a major internationally traded service.

“Tourism has its place in the green growth agenda, as an important economic sector for many developed and developing countries and an extremely promising development perspective for the coming decades, contributing to a sustainable planet, a growing economy and a better life for all,” said UNWTO Executive Director for Competitiveness, External Relations and Partnerships, Márcio Favilla.

An event organized by the Steering Committee on Tourism for Development (SCTD), Towards Inclusive and Sustainable Growth and Development: What Can the Tourism Sector Contribute, convened countries at different stages of tourism development – including the Secretary of State of the Ministry of Commerce of Cambodia and the Ministers of Tourism of Lesotho and Paraguay – to present the policies and measures needed by developing countries to spur internationally competitive tourism strategies in the framework of the promotion of service exports.

“The implementation of support measures in sustainable tourism at the level of policy makers, institutions and enterprises, particularly in the services sector, will be crucial for the beneficial integration of developing countries and LDCs in the world economy,” said Mr. Favilla.

The event was also an opportunity to draw attention to what UNWTO and other member organizations of the SCTD are doing to assist developing countries in maximizing tourism’s development impact.

New Webinar Feature: Video Clip Playback

ReadyTalk, a provider of audio, web conferencing and webinar services, announced the availability of a new feature – video clip playback, enabling customers to play short pre-recorded video clips during live webinars.

Incorporating video clips into webinars increases engagement and makes communication with the audience more effective. It allows companies to highlight previously developed videos, such as product demos and customer testimonials, during a webinar or training session.

“We often use video segments for employee training, but our previous solutions were not ideal. In the past one of our options was to mail DVDs to all of our remote employees, which was costly and slow. Additionally, other conferencing services required participants to join our meetings up to an hour early in order to completely download the video and presentation for playback, which wasn’t efficient for presenters or employees,” said Marcos Morales, Regional Trainer for PSAV. “With ReadyTalk we can maintain a continuous presentation flow and present slides and video clips without changing interfaces or tabs. It’s not only seamless, but effortless for presenters as well as an extremely effective way for us to communicate and deliver content.”

ReadyTalk’s video clip playback feature includes:

A one-step upload process that takes the headache out of sharing video clips

Ability to upload many standard audio and video file types

Media management library for storing up to 10 files

Smooth and reliable video playback for attendees on any platform

Insert videos alongside slides and polls for seamless content flow

Participants experience the video in real-time with no downloads

When recording the session, video is captured just as it is presented during the webinar including any pauses and voice-overs from the presenter

“The upload-and-convert strategy ReadyTalk uses ensures smooth, uniform and reliable playback on all supported platforms with minimal buffering, which maintains the viewing experience,” said Paul Carollo, product marketing manager, ReadyTalk. “The ability to repurpose existing video assets, such as a commercial or customer testimonial, improves the ROI on that content while providing an engaging audience experience.”

Video clip playback is free and available for all ReadyTalk web conferencing or webinar customers.

To learn more about ReadyTalk’s audio and web conferencing offerings, including professional services and support for webinars, please visit www.readytalk.com , or on Twitter and Facebook.

USA Jobs, Greater Seattle Area: Sr. Database Developer (Data Warehouse)

Advertising and Public Relations Manager

Jobs UAE: Business Planning & Development Manager

Jobs UK: Director – Global Advertising Promotion Products

Carlson Wagonlit Travel – Flexible in Europe or in the USA (United Kingdom)

Job Description 

This position is a key role within the global supplier product marketing team, responsible for setting advertising strategy, creating new revenue streams, and driving new initiatives. The Director – Advertising and Promotion Products will own the products, vehicles, delivery mechanisms, pricing, and strategies on a global level. In addition this role spans beyond supplier marketing and bridges additional advertising opportunities as identified or developed.

This role reports to the Vice President within global supplier product marketing and implements globally, regionally and/or locally.

Main responsibilities
-Drive the development of CWT’s advertising and promotion programs
-Manage the Advertising Sales team
-Work closely with global supplier product marketing team leadership to ensure the right marketing vehicles are in place or to create new marketing vehicles
-Identify new advertising opportunities and associated business cases
-Owns the process of creating new advertising concepts/products
-Manages advertising budget and ensures projects get done on time and within budget
-Development of ROI and measurement tools to ensure effectiveness of each marketing or advertising tool/campaign
-Establish design of marketing and advertising practices at a global level,
setting goals and objectives to support marketing efforts through advertising, promotions, incentives and unique product initiatives,
creating new advertising concepts/products that can be applied within CWT,
creating and maintaining the benchmarking tools necessary for post campaign/initiative follow up.

-Leads the team in ensuring the right marketing tools/products are available to meet the needs of the supplier marketing plans today and into the future
-Creates marketing products that suppliers would view as unique points of differentiation – thus setting CWT on a stage far different than other TMC’s
-Creation of new advertising vehicles (supplier revenue generating vehicles)
-Development of new market segments to drive business to (valuable segments supplier want to reach)
-Champion advertising across the organization

Candidate profile
English fluent: written and oral
-Abilities to deal within a highly multicultural environment
-Excellent written and verbal communication skills to create solution value proposition, sales presentations, influence business investment and key marketing messages
-Strong knowledge of Microsoft tools, including excel. Strong skill set in development of powerpoint/visio required.
-Solution Driven
-Strong commercial acumen in and business leadership qualities including ability to formulate business cases based on NPV/ROI to the company
-Demonstrated track record of analyzing market trends for purposes of making sound recommendations with the necessary data support/rationale.
-Excellent relationship building skills with a good understanding of different cultures and how to work with them to deliver results, in a global organization.
-Must be able to travel 25%-40% of the time including global travel
-Strong knowledge of airline/travel industry
-Bachelor Degree in Marketing / Business / or its equivalent or equivalent experience in a similar capacity
-Advertising agency experience helpful
-Experience in a strategic role

More info at: www.carlsonwagonlit.com

Jobs UK: Director – Global Product Sales Support – Carlson Wagonlit Travel – Flexible in Europe or in the USA (United Kingdom)

Job Description 

The main objective of this position is to be the main contact for new product sales and enhanced product sales in EMEA for both existing clients and prospects.

Main responsibilities
-Products Sales Support
-Lead and drive support with GPS client sales and support, including product demonstration and optimization for all core and enhanced products.
-Focus on enhanced product selling opportunities within region – identification of target market & clients, liaise with local countries on upsell opportunities
-Ensure revenue targets and goals are being met within EMEA through tracking and commitments for target clients and within countries
-Lead product knowledge strategies for sales and program managers (Discover – Sell – Use) within the region for global products
-Regional product penetration and buy-in
-Provide strategic and tactical direction to ensure in-market alignment and support of product sales.
-Lead effort on identifying sales opportunities, increasing sales and product penetration through innovative marketing, sales support and training of internal teams within EMEA.
-Act as a strategic product resource for global, regional and local program management

Candidate profile 

-English a must; written and oral
-Second language/multi-lingual preferred
-Abilities to deal within a multicultural environment Strong customer relation and presentation skills a must – ability to articulate technical information in a business related manner
-Word, Excel, PowerPoint
-Proven ability to interface with clients and sales teams and articulate clear messages with success
-Strong understanding of travel industry
-Bachelor degree or equivalent work experience
-Significant client facing experience a must Product management experience a plus
-Experience in corporate travel business

More info at: http://www.carlsonwagonlit.com

Two new participants on board for HBAA’s ‘Boss in a Boat’ initiative

Angie Mason, director of Absolute Corporate Events, and Rajesh Vohra, sales and marketing director, Sarova Hotels, will make a splash on the 2nd May in the port of Poole to help the HBAA’s Chairman, Chris Peacock, Brendon Smith from etc.venues and Trinity Conferences’ MD, Jacki Kavannagh, to push the boat out for the association’s chosen charity for 2012, the RNLI.

The brave crew will be left adrift facing rough waters, winds and an unpredictable climate. To return safe and sound to land they will be sending SOS, SMS, a variety of messages and making calls from their mobile phones until they reach their target amount for the RNLI.

Rajesh Vohra, sales & marketing director, Sarova Hotels Limited, commented: “I was delighted to receive an invitation from Chris Peacock to join him in his novel method of raising money for the RNLI. As a renowned British Institution I was surprised to learn that they operate purely from donations by the British public and receive no Governmental support. I look forward to being rescued from waters off the south coast, having raised a significant amount of money for this very worthy cause.”

Angie Mason, director of Absolute Corporate Events, said: “Anyone who knows me also knows about my hate/hate relationship with water… so not only is this a rather tough personal challenge but more importantly a fantastic opportunity to support our Chairman’s chosen charity – the RNLI – a most worthy cause. Rumours that pictures of me with wet hair are being sold on ebay after the event have been greatly exaggerated!”

The HBAA’s Chairman, Chris Peacock, said: “We are all excited and terrified in equal measure, but we know that with a little help from our industry peers and friends we will be buoyed. It is great to see Absolute Corporate Events and Sarova Hotels getting on board supporting this initiative. To support them and the rest of the crew we appreciate any donations made at www.virginmoneygiving.com/hbaa.”

To keep up to date with announcements of other crew members who will be cast out to sea on 2nd May and for regular updates on funds raised for the RNLI, follow the event’s official hashtag #HBAAinaboat.

The HBAA welcomes donations on the association’s fundraising page www.virginmoneygiving.com/hbaa

Hotel Manager – Jumeirah Emirates Towers

Sales Manager – Europe – Jumeirah Grand Hotel via Veneto, Rome

Director of Sales – Guoman & Thistle hotels

Liberty Living – Head of Marketing