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JUNE 2014
ISSUE 16
Arrivals Drop in March The influx of tourists arriving to Cyprus in March plummeted 16.3 percent year-on-year to 77,533, as per data released by The Statistical Service of Cyprus.
Qatar Airways has launched direct nonstop services between Larnaka International Airport and Doha International Airport.
06 Le Méridien Limassol Spa & Resort to Undergo Major Renovation Le Méridien Limassol Spa & Resort’s management has revealed plans to undertake an extensive multimillion Euro renovation project.
15 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE
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NICOSIA NEWS
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GENERAL NEWS
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TOURISM BOARDS
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NAUTICAL NEWS
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AIR
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NEWS & EVENTS
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
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RENDEZVOUS
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TRAVEL TALK
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RENDEZVOUS
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Qatar Airways Arrives in Cyprus
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MARKET UPDATE
TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel COPY EDITOR
European Tour Operators Online Bookings to Reach EUR10.1 Billion As Europe’s economy continues to recover from the financial crisis, tour operator bookings make slow but steady increases as PhoCusWright’s latest European Online Travel Overview shows.
Emily Millett SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba
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JOURNALIST Maria Kazeli PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670 WEBSITE www.traveltradecyprus.travel EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradecyprus.travel PRINTED IN CYPRUS Cyprint Plc P.O. Box 58300, CY-3732, Limassol, Cyprus Tel: +357 25 720035, Fax: +357 25 720123 Email: info@cyprint.com.cy
ccording to the report, despite the setbacks regarding mobile and online penetration and the competition from online travel agents, booking tours remains a common choice among European customers, tour operators however are pushed to make significant changes in flexibility and web offerings in order to stay relevant. “Changes in consumer behaviour and preference pose a problem for wholesale operators,” explained Luke Bujarski, director, research, PhoCusWright. “Europeans are moving towards flexible travel, and are booking directly with suppliers or online travel agents. Consumers want the convenience of booking tours online, just like they have with lodging and air.” The tour operator industry has relatively low online booking numbers in comparison to other segments, nevertheless, some companies are responding by spending less on traditional brick-and-mortar operations, and are rather choosing to bulk up their online and mobile presence to tap into Europe’s increasingly tech-savvy traveller.
Based on the overview, while in 2013 European tour operator online bookings reached EUR9.2 billion, by 2015 it is projected to rise to EUR10.1 billion. Although this figure shows modest growth, it demonstrates that the tour operator segment is still a major competitor in the European market.
EXCHANGE RATES
Austrian Airlines: Upward Trend in Capacity Utilisation Accurate as of
28/05/2014 COUNTRY
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US (USD)
1.36
UK (GBP)
0.81
Switzerland (CHF)
1.22
Japan (JPY)
138.79
PICTURE OF THE MONTH
Austrian Airlines
Austrian Airlines carried more than 2.2 million travellers in the first quarter of the year, marking a 2.3 percent year-on-year decline. While capacity increased by 0.4 percent, revenue passenger kilometres rose 0.7 percent, leading to a 0.2 percentage point growth in load factor to 74.2 percent. Looking behind the numbers, Karsten Benz, chief commercial officer, Austrian Airlines, said, “The trouble spots in the Middle East, Russia and the Ukraine tended to dampen demand. For this reason we correspondingly adjusted our capacities. The improved capacity utilisation on our longhaul routes once again showed that we are on the right path with our expansion in North America.” During the three-month period, about 354,300 travellers were carried on intercontinental flights, down 0.4 percent; capacity utilisation however improved 0.7 percentage points to 77.7 percent.
JUNE 2014
MONTHLY NEWS
Nicosia
A. G. Leventis Gallery Inaugurated
The Nicosia Municipality in collaboration with the Cyprus Exploration Space Organisation (CSEO) held the First Nicosia Space Week between April 7 – 13. The event concluded with a visit by Russian cosmonaut Alexander Volkov, and a competition organised between CSEO and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Entitled NASA Space Apps 2014, the contest was held in Nicosia after the capital was selected to be among the top 25 European host cities in collaboration with the USbased space agency. Constantinos Yiorkadjis, mayor, Nicosia, said that the municipality supports the event acknowledging the significance of opening up new perspectives for the city. “The need to invest in research and innovation in our country, to create opportunities, to create new quality jobs, especially for people with high-level academic and other training, are the subjects of everyday conversations,” he concluded.
Constantinos Yiorkadjis, mayor, Nicosia (second for the left)
A. G. Leventis Gallery in Nicosia has been officially revealed to the public. “This huge opening to culture fills a significant gap […] bringing all the positive results that accompany such an institution to the community of Cyprus. The gallery will actively contribute and enrich the intellectual life of our country, while it will also attract the interest not only of the Cypriot public, but of visitors and researchers from abroad as well,” remarked Nicos Anastasiades, president, Cyprus. The modern building that houses the facility is a model of bioclimatic architecture and hosts three separate collections of art, antique furniture and porcelain. Collaborations with the National Gallery of Athens, the Louvre Museum and the Courtauld Institute of Art, London have already been signed.
New Sports Centre in Strovolos A new sporting facility in Nicosia has been inaugurated at a ceremony officiated by Nicos Anastasiades, president, Cyprus. The launch of Costas Papaellinas Athletic Centre is part of a private initiative by the Papaellinas family, the founding member of the Keravnos Strovolou basketball team with the support of Cyprus Sport Organisation. “The sports centre [...] benefits hundreds of children and young people in the wider area of Strovolos. It is a source for a healthy life and involves our youth during a difficult time for the country,” commented Anastasiades. The facility houses the club, a refurbished closed hall, an openair basketball court, three futsal fields and four tennis courts.
JUNE 2014
Nicosia Bids to Host Casino Project Philips de Marlier - Still Life with a Basket of Flowers on a Ledge
Space Week Held in Nicosia
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Nicosia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) has proposed the creation of a regional committee to support the capital’s candidacy to be the host city for the upcoming casino resort. According to Costas Georgallis, president, NCCI, the working group should involve the municipalities of Nicosia, NCCI, Nicosia Tourism Board, as well as industry stakeholders. Expressing his view that Nicosia would benefit from the casino in order to gain comparative advantages as it currently enjoys only 5.6 percent of the total tourist arrivals to Cyprus, Georgallis added that
NCCI meeting with Nicosia Mayors
the capital’s status as a business and administrative centre makes it an ideal place for such a facility, providing an additional attraction to the thousands of entrepreneurs arriving annually.
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MONTHLY NEWS
Pafos International Airport
Nicosia Linked with Paphos’ Airport
Kapnos Airport Shuttle, the public transport company offering a scheduled shuttle network between Nicosia and Larnaka International Airport, is now also connecting the Cypriot capital with Pafos International Airport. According to the relevant announcement, the new Kapnos Paphos Airport service aims to provide fast, economical and convenient transportation between Nicosia and Paphos’ airport. In a bid to better serve the travelling public, the company has established a desk at Pafos International Airport, while in the same framework, staff have gone through special training on road safety education, professional conduct and appearance. Kapnos Airport Shuttle will additionally provide families or groups of more than five passengers with free transport from their homes to the Nicosia station and vice versa. The same option will be available to passengers residing in hotels in the capital.
Tourism Revenue Remains Steady On the basis of the data released from the Statistical Service of Cyprus’ passenger survey, revenue from tourism reached EUR30.7 million in January compared to EUR30.9 million in the corresponding month of 2013, recording a decrease of 0.5 percent. During the month under review, the total number of overall arrivals reached 40,675, marking a lower result that the 42,286 catalogued during the same period in 2013. However the average length of stay registered by guests on the island witnessed growth with the end result coming out at 11.3 days. Expenditure per person also increased as compared to 2013, with travellers spending an average EUR755.7 each during their stay. Finnish and Austrian tourists proved to be the most generous in January splurging EUR2,833 and EUR1,744 per person respectively, while Danish visitors where the most tight fisted parting with just EUR345 per person.
Larnaca Popular with Arab Visitors
Larnaca
Larnaca is proving popular amongst guests from the Middle East, with recent statistics from Larnaka Tourism Board indicating that the area attracts a higher percentage than the total average share of arrivals in Cyprus from countries such as Lebanon and Iran. “Middle East countries as well as Egypt are priority markets for Larnaca,” commented Nana Asmeni Pavlou, officer, Larnaka Tourism Board. “Flight connections to and from Larnaka International Airport are rather frequent and all-year-round from specific destinations in the Middle East. These are increasingly becoming key markets for Larnaca. Additionally, Larnaca offers a multidimensional experience and its product is appealing to Middle Eastern travellers,” she added. According to Pavlou, the coastal region is ideal for shortbreaks, business stopovers, civil wedding trips and tourists looking for water sports, cultural sites, shopping and nightlife. Around 11 percent of the total visitors to Cyprus currently choose to stay in Larnaca.
JUNE 2014
MONTHLY NEWS UAE Arrivals Increase 27 Percent Middle Eastern interest in Cyprus is growing, with the number of Arab visitors rising by 2.14 percent in 2013, and the UAE emerging as the top market, boasting a surge of 27 percent according to Vassilis Theocharides, director, Middle East and Arabian Gulf Office, Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO). This trend is expected to continue following Qatar Airways’ launch of scheduled flights between Larnaca and Doha in April.
Cyprus’ Tourism Credentials Highlighted in Dubai Nicos Anastasiades, president, Cyprus, has singled out tourism as one of the main areas of cooperation between the island and the UAE. Speaking at the UAECyprus Business forum, organised by Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry in partnership with the Ministry of Energy, Commerce, Industry and Tourism, Cyprus, and the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Anastadiades remarked on the longstanding friendly relations between the two nations, and reinforced the government’s keenness to enhance cooperation and explore further business and investment opportunities. As Anastasiades explained, the government is working closely with Cyprus Tourism Organisation’s regional office in Dubai, to further strengthen partnerships. In his speech, H.E. Hisham Al Shirawi, second vice chairman, Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, stated that Dubai and Cyprus have a lot of similarities, especially in the area of tourism, and urged Cypriot businesses to benefit from Dubai’s strategic location to reach out to their trading partners in the region.
JUNE 2014
“We were very successful in creating awareness of Cyprus, [...] especially in the Gulf countries. We have had very successful results from our special interest marketing including weddings and MICE,” Theocharides commented. In a bid to further boost arrivals from the Middle East, CTO’s regional office plans to continue promoting these niche segments.
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MONTHLY NEWS
Arrivals Drop in March
Outbound Travel Continues Upward Trend Residents of the island continue to take an increasing number of overseas trips, as the latest figures released by The Statistical Service of Cyprus show. During March, 80,656 residents returned to the country from abroad compared to 75,892 in the corresponding period in 2013, marking a 6.3 percent increase. The most popular destination proved to be Greece with 23,906 trips, up 13.6 percent year-on-year, followed by the UK with 22,601 journeys, down five percent. While travel to Egypt, Russia and Lebanon dropped 14.2 percent, 5.8 percent and 7.1 percent respectively, there was a 1.2 percent rise in demand to Israel. In terms of the purpose of the journey, the majority, 62.5 percent travelled for holiday, while 27.1 percent undertook the trip for business and 7.3 percent for studies.
CTO Supports Upgrade of Hotel and Catering Business
Ayiou Andreas Street, Limassol
Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) has launched four grants in a bid to improve Cyprus’ tourism product and the quality of service in resorts and hotels. Three of the funding plans cover part of the costs to improve, upgrade and modernise properties as well as offer better facilities to people with disabilities. Through the fourth grant hotel enterprises are being sponsored to create, upgrade and complete specialised equipment and infrastructure for disabled guests. Marios Hannides, director general, CTO, emphasised the necessity and importance of developing and modernising the services offered in the tourism industry and urged businesses to take advantage of CTO’s grants.
The influx of tourists arriving to Cyprus in March plummeted 16.3 percent year-on-year to 77,533, as per data released by The Statistical Service of Cyprus. According to the report, the largest decrease was recorded from the German market with figures falling 41.5 percent from 11,113 to 6,495. Likewise, arrivals from the UK dropped 22.5 percent to 30,368 and from Greece 12.6 percent to 7,038. On the other hand, visitor numbers from Russia rose 5.8 percent to 8,134. Despite the dip in arrivals, the UK stll remained Cyprus’ main feeder market, followed by Russia, Greece and Germany. During the period between January and March, the island welcomed a total of 163,436 tourists compared to 177,233 visitors in the first quarter of 2013, marking a year-on-year decrease of 7.8 percent. JUNE 2014
Tourism Boards
MONTHLY NEWS
Geri and Tseri Promoted SELAS Mapping Services has undertaken the mapping of two more areas of the island previously unchartered by the company, namely the municipalities of Geri and Tseri. The project included the collection and creation of a geographical database of the localities with all of the points of interest featured such as historic and cultural sites, church-
Optimising Tourist Spend in Paphos In partnership with the Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO) and Cyprus Sustainable Tourism Initiative (CSTI), the Travel Foundation has proposed the development and implementation of new initiatives aimed at stimulating greater tourist spend within the local economy of Paphos. The new project, which builds on the three organisations’ partnership established in 2010, is expected to increase customer satisfaction, encourage repeat visits, bring about community benefits and ensure the long-term sustainability of Paphos as a holiday destination. The next phase of the programme will see the development of a local label scheme, enabling tourists to identify and locate businesses in the coastal city which offer Cypriot products and experiences. The scheme will also be supported by the promotion of authentic Cypriot culture within hotels through an ambassador programme. While the project will initially only operate in the Paphos region, it is expected to be rolled out across Cyprus in the longer term.
JUNE 2014
es and various services available within the regions such as banks, medical centres, public buildings, schools and post offices. This extensive compilation of data enabled the production of both digital and printed maps which are set to meet the needs of the municipalities, and assist visitors to the areas.
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MONTHLY NEWS
Tourism Boards
Discover Paphos on an Electric Bike Pafos Regional Board of Tourism has welcomed Bikin'Cyprus Event Management’s decision to offer guided electric bike tours in the Paphos region. The tourist service aims to provide visitors with an environmentally friendly alternative form of transportation to explore the province and surrounding rural areas with. Lasting around six hours, the tour includes the Paphos harbour, Peyia and Coral Bay, the wine villages of Laona and Neo Chorio, the Baths of Aphrodite and Arodes. During the journey, tourists can visit archaeological and historical sites, get to know the countryside, villages and vineyards of Paphos, as well as the Lara coastline.
Russian Agents in Paphos Hoteliers from the Paphos region collaborated recently with the Pafos Regional Board of Tourism, Cyprus Tourism Organisation and additional tourism professionals to host a group of Russian tour operators, in a bid to promote the area and encourage the inclusion of the coastal city in tour packages. During the hospitality event, the Eastern European group had the chance to experience the district’s hotel and tourism infrastructure, visit various landmarks in the region and taste the local gastronomical delicacies. The group of tour operators was reportedly thrilled with the destination and the entire hospitality experience. Following the joint efforts of all those involved in organising the trip, the visitors have assured that they will work to strengthen actions to further promote Paphos in the Russian market.
Russian Agents Enjoying a Traditional Meal
Paphos’ Tourist Website Available in French
French Website
The official tourist website of Paphos is now also available in French following a steep surge in visitor numbers to the online platform. For the past 12 months ending March 31, the page received more than 130,000 hits of which 80 percent were new visitors. Aiming to act as a promotional tool, offering a well-organised presentation of the area, the website contains specific information on the district, accompanied by rich photographic material. All of the region’s numerous archaeological sites, activities, natural attractions, sporting opportunities, cultural events and accommodation options are accessible on the site, organised under one comprehensive umbrella.
Upgrading Tourist Experience in Paphos Aiming to further enhance the product, Pafos Regional Board of Tourism has compiled a list of ongoing projects and initiatives for this year. The actions which are expected to lead to the penetration of new markets include creating culinary tours and launching a gastronomic website, as well as reviewing the existing wine routes in the region. Organised sunset tours and 30 new biking routes are also due to be established, while diving tourism will be boosted with the development of an artificial reef and marine park. Additional areas to be improved include archaeological sites, mountain climbing tourism and accessibility to rural areas.
Paphos’ Mosaics
JUNE 2014
Nautical
Limassol Marina to Open to Public
MONTHLY NEWS
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Limassol Port to Private Owner
Limassol Marina Commercial Area Rendering
Following the approval of a relevant bill by parliament, the government of Cyprus has plans to license out some of the commercial operations at Limassol Port. A statement publicised by the Ministry of Communications and Works notified all interested parties about the competition. Via the bidding procedure, the government seeks to select consultants who will provide expert advice and consultative support. Applicants must have previous experience working with privatisations, partial privatisations, infrastructure public–private partnerships or land license agreements. The selected consultants will assist the government in navigating the process of licensing part of the trade operations of the country’s main port, including cargo-handling, to a competent operator, for the benefit of the Cyprus Ports Authority and the Cypriot government.
CSC Holds 25th Annual Meeting Following the recent release of Dioni Residences at Limassol Marina, the waterfront development is to open its gates to the public this June, with the launch of its commercial offering featuring shopping and dining areas, a fitness and spa club, a cultural centre and car park. Announcing the news, Sophia Paraskeva, marketing and public relations executive officer, Limassol Marina, said that residential sales are going extremely well and contracts in excess of EUR120 million have already been signed for the luxury apartments and villas. “We are pleased to see that Limassol is still a preferred destination for travel and sailing. Either way, this will drive traffic to the marina and the commercial area of the project from June, boosting local business and improving the calibre of our tourism,” Paraskeva said. CSC Annual Meeting
Larnaca Needs a Commercial Port Larnaka Tourism Board has taken a stand regarding the development of the city’s port and marina, clearly supporting the need for a purely commercial rather than an industrial harbour. Dinos Lefkaritis, chairman, Larnaka Tourism Board, commented, “The board is in favour of an integrated development of the port and the marina, which will be orientated to the tourist/passenger dimension. We share and support the efforts of the mayor and the city council to implement the project as designed and agreed long ago.” There are alternative solutions for an industrial port to be created in adjacent areas outside the city of Larnaca, Lefkaritis added, noting that the centre of town, where thousands of people live and visit, is not the proper area to create a trading hub.
JUNE 2014
Having successfully completed its 25th year of operations, the Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC)’s annual meeting was addressed by Nicos Anastasiades, president, Cyprus. In his speech, Anastasiades referred to the importance of establishing a maritime state secretariat which is one of the government’s priorities, in order to further protect and develop the sector. “Cyprus can be developed into an important energy centre in the Eastern Mediterranean,” said Anastasiades, adding that new nautical and energy projects can be developed, and related governmental policies will certainly consider this new perspective. Lauding the chamber’s achievements over the years, Anastasiades said that in the 25 years of its existence CSC has become a very important professional organisation which directly and actively participates in Cyprus’ maritime affairs.
MONTHLY NEWS
Cyprus’ Airports Contribute EUR500 Million to the Economy According to Wes Porter, CEO, Hermes Airports, Cyprus’ airports are of significant economic benefit to the country. Speaking at the inauguration of Qatar Airways’ new Doha – Larnaca route, Porter said that Larnaka International Airport and Pafos International Airport contribute some EUR500 million to the economy annually, including EUR125 million in government revenues. “The two airports of Cyprus create and sustain about 12,700 jobs. The economic impact study which we concluded recently shows that the airports’ contribution corresponds to about three percent of Cyprus’ GDP,” highlighted Porter, adding that as the operator of the two hubs, Hermes Airports is committed to running the facilities in an efficient manner and also to strengthening their role as major financial engines to the Cypriot economy.
Air
Qatar Airways Arrives in Cyprus
Qatar Airways
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Qatar Airways has launched direct nonstop services between Larnaka International Airport and Doha International Airport. The new route will be operated four times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, by an Airbus A320 fitted with 12 seats in business and 132 seats in economy class. Expressing delight at the inauguration of the service, Marwan Koleilat, chief commercial officer, Qatar Airways, said, “Cyprus is a fantastic destination and Qatar Airways is thrilled to be providing this new scheduled service to Larnaca. “Scheduled flights between Cyprus and Qatar have long been an aspiration for the airline and we believe travellers will truly appreciate our five-star services, together with the enhanced network of flights to more than 135 destinations around the world,” Koleilat added. Wes Porter, CEO, Hermes Airports, described the launch of the route as an important milestone not only for Hermes Airports but also for Cyprus, which is set to further expand bilateral relations between the countries.
UIA
Airtrans Aviation and UIA Sign Agreement
Airtrans Aviation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Airtrans Group which is celebrating 30 years of presence in Cyprus as an efficient, economical and global one-stop air and ocean network, announced a new agreement with Ukraine International Airlines (UIA) for cargo ground handling services at Larnaka International Airport. The deal comes less than a year after the carrier started its operations at Larnaca’s airport, appointing Airtrans Aviation as its cargo general sales agent. A key feature of the collaboration with UIA will be the high degree of customer focus and innovation that Airtrans Aviation intends to bring to the operation. UIA was founded in 1992 and its fleet consists of 19 mediumranged Boeing 737s. The airline operates flights to 40 capitals and key cities in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the CIS. With the introduction of its summer schedule the airline flies to Larnaca on a daily basis.
JUNE 2014
Air
MONTHLY NEWS
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Ryanair: 92 Percent On-time Performance Corresponding to Ryanair’s endeavours to set the benchmark in consumer relations, the low cost carrier has released its March customer service statistics. As Maria Macken, sales and marketing manager, UK, Ireland and Malta, Ryanair, revealed, during the month under review, the airline carried some 5.2 million passengers on 35,000 flights, 92 percent of which landed right on time, marking a three percent improvement over the corresponding period in 2013. During March, the carrier received less than one complaint per 2,000 customers, and less than one person per 2,000 passengers expressed dissatisfaction over baggage handling. To keep these customer service figures high, over 99 percent of all grievances were answered within seven days, and the airline continues to introduce additional perks.
Etihad Airways Goes Daily to Larnaca Etihad Airways has increased its operations between Abu Dhabi and Larnaca. The UAE-based airline announced an increase in its frequency on the route from three to five flights per week, while during the peak period between July 1 and September 30, the carrier will offer daily services between the UAE capital and the coastal city. All flights to and from Larnaca are being operated by a two-class Airbus A320 aircraft configured to carry 16 guests in business and 120 in economy class.
easyJet Links Larnaca and Basel easyJet has launched regular scheduled services between Larnaka International Airport and Basel. Using an Airbus A319 aircraft, the airline offers twice weekly flights between Larnaca and the Swiss city. “We have experienced continued growth, significantly contributing to the Cypriot tourism industry,� commented Stefanos Vakirtzis, regional ground operations manager, easyJet, saying that passenger numbers are to surpass 670,000 this year, up 14 percent compared to the same period in 2013.
JUNE 2014
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MONTHLY NEWS
Air
Air Travel Services Deal Signed with Abu Dhabi
Nicos Anastasiades (left) and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan
A bilateral agreement for cooperation in the air travel services sector as well as memoranda of understanding concerning the energy, tourism, education and science sectors were signed in Abu Dhabi during an official visit by Nicos Anastasiades, president, Cyprus. The endorsements occurred in the context of a meeting in the UAE capital with Anastasiades and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, crown prince, Abu Dhabi and were authorised by George Lakkotrypis, minister of energy, commerce, industry and tourism, Cyprus. The new deal on air travel services, which is a revised agreement of 1999 aligned with relevant European Union provisions, allows for the granting of rights within the framework of the fifth freedom for Emirates for several destinations within Europe. Meanwhile, the newly signed memorandum on tourism outlines a framework for the planning and development of the sectors, building on the exchange of technical expertise and the promotion of the two countries’ tourist product.
BA Adds Flights from Cyprus to London British Airways (BA) has increased operations between Cyprus and the UK, offering a total of 17 weekly services from the island to two London airports. Following the resumption of the Paphos – London Gatwick route at the end of March, the airline then proceeded with an enhancement in frequency between Larnaca and the same UK airport from three to five weekly flights. “During peak season, BA confirms its commitment to Cyprus with a boost in the number of flights to the island and its offer of greater choice to both incoming and outgoing travellers,” pinpointed Freddie Stier, commercial director, Cyprus and Greece, BA.
Ryanair: Highest Rated Airline in the World Ryanair Holding received a BBB+ rating from Standard & Poor’s Financial Services, making it the highest rated airline in the world. According to Howard Millar, deputy CEO, Ryanair, the score reflects the fundamental strength of the company’s business model which has delivered a track record of high levels of profitability and cash generation, and a strong balance sheet with low amounts of leverage. “The successful achievement of this BBB+ rating is part of our plan to access the capital markets to finance the purchase of our 175 Boeing 737800 order […]. The BBB+ rating will enable us to achieve lower cost financing to ensure that we continue to have the lowest costs and the lowest fares in Europe,” added Millar.
JUNE 2014
Events
Living Cyprus at Hermes Airports
MONTHLY NEWS
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EVENTS Nireas Volkswagen Triathlon Desalination Plant, Larnaca, June 1, 2014 (www.cytrifed.org) Junior and adult athletes and teams will fight for the trophies in swimming, biking and running.
The month of April saw Larnaka International Airport launch the Living Cyprus initiative, presenting tourists with examples of the cultural heritage of the country, in a bid to promote traditions and encourage return stays. Scenes from the island’s countryside were set up in the departures area, while a traditional tavern offered popular flavours and dishes. Travellers could also enjoy Cypriot music and dance and learn about local arts and crafts. Co-organised by Hermes Airports, CTC-ARI, the company responsible for the duty-free shops, and Cyprus Airports Food and Beverage, the managing group behind the cafes and restaurants, the project aimed to support the promotion of Cyprus as a year-round destination.
Troodos Sports & Fun Festival Troodos, Cyprus, June 7 -15, 2014 (www.cyclingcy.com) The festival is open to all, young and older people who love adventure and outdoor activities. The programme includes sports competitions, exhibitions of traditional and sport products, workshops, games for children and more.
Nissi Beach Resort Holds Seminar Nissi Beach Resort in Ayia Napa continued its efforts to educate its staff, after offering all employees the opportunity to take part in a special wine seminar. The session entitled ‘Knowing and Tasting Wine’ focused on how to provide professional service and care to guests, information regarding the various types of Cypriot wines available, how to combine food and wine, how to serve the beverage and a great deal of additional useful background information relevant to the subject. The trainers at the dedicated tutorial were Michael Demosthenous, tourism consultant, Elpis Tourism & Hospitality Seminars, and sommelier Yiorgos Kassianos. The whole initiative was sponsored by the Cyprus’ Human Resource Development Authority.
Volkswagen Aquathlon Pareklisia, Limassol, June 15, 2014 (www.cytrifed.org) Kids and adults are both welcome to join the competition which will include running, swimming and running again. Zenobia Week Zenobia Wreck, Larnaca, June 23 – 30, 2014 (www.zenobiaweek.com) A week filled with activities such as free dive contest, underwater photographic competition, seminars and free cruises. Cyprus Ultra Marathon Mountains, Limassol, July 12, 2014 (www.cyprusultra.com) Hailed as one of the world’s toughest running races with extreme u p hills and down hills with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees. So far, only one athlete has ever finished the 217km race.
First Sculpture Symposium in Ayia Napa
Ayia Napa Sculpture Park
JUNE 2014
Ayia Napa Municipality officially inaugurated the town’s new Sculpture Park with an event held between April 23 – May 11. The symposium, which hosted various creative professionals including painters, art restorers, and poets, included exhibitions featuring works of Cypriot, Greek and Russian artists, as well as lectures on how culture in the form of spiritual growth can promote art in the area of Famagusta. Moreover the public was able to attend celebrations commemorating 400 years since the death of El Greco, which included a speech by professor Robin Sinclair Cormack, a British classicist and art historian, specialising in Byzantine art.
FIVB U21 Beach Volleyball World Championships Finikoudes Beach, Larnaca, July 23 – 27, 2014 (www.larnakabeachvolley.com) One of the top beach volleyball events in the world, organised by International Volleyball Federation.
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MONTHLY NEWS
Accommodation
Thanos Hotels Remains Strong
Semeli Hotel to Attract Middle Eastern Guests
Annabelle, Paphos
Poised to welcome the Middle Eastern segment, the management at Semeli Hotel in Nicosia are working to further promote the property in the region. This was suggested by Nicolas Nicolaou, general manager, Semeli Hotel, who added, “The Middle East is definitely one of our main source markets not so much because of the high levels of accommodation overnight compared to other destinations but more certainly as a growing market and main target
Thanos Hotels’ figures for 2013 show that the company managed to maintain the same levels as those recorded in 2012, Sophia Liveras Atallah, sales manager, Thanos Hotels, revealed. Commenting on the properties’ ability to cater to all segments, Liveras Atallah said, “We are very suited for small and large family units. If privacy is a factor, then Anassa is the best option. Located […] on the secluded cove beach of the Akamas peninsula, there are rooms with private terraces, pools and even separate residences.” With regards to the Middle Eastern market, Liveras Atallah explained that the hotels are able to cater for any cuisine, and can provide halal meals.
Louis Phaethon Beach to Remain under Louis Following the circulation of recent rumours concerning a multimillion dollar investment project in Paphos which involves the Church of Cyprus and a Hungarian businessman, Louis has denied any involvement in the scheme. More specifically the hospitality company clarified that the four-star Louis Phaethon Beach, located in Geroskipou area, as well as the land around the hotel, have been leased to Louis Hotels since 2000 with a right to renew this contract until 2056. In the relevant statement, the company mentions that neither Louis, nor its subsidiary Louis Hotels, are officially informed of the intentioned venture, and as such they are not in any case willing to terminate the management agreement for the Paphos property before its expiry date.
St Raphael Resort Predicts a Good Year Ahead The management at St Raphael Resort is hopeful that this year will see an improvement over 2013’s figures, despite international problems and difficulties in various countries around the globe. “2013 started as our best year yet, only to be affected in mid-March by the Cyprus banking crisis. Saying that, the situation was not as bad as the international news presented it to be and all the hotels and tourist outlets on the island were operating normally. [...] However, by summer, tourist confidence had grown again, and we were happy to welcome our guests and have a busy year as usual,” said Farah Shammas, business development director, St Raphael Resort.
Semeli Hotel
for us. There is definitely a huge market there and we need to find ways to attract more guests coming to Cyprus.” Reaching an average occupancy level of 50 percent in 2013, is it hoped that catering to the specific needs of the Middle Eastern client will help increase arrivals in the coming years. The five-floor hotel offers 58 elegant, spacious units, including 50 double rooms, six deluxe rooms and two suites. Four fully soundproof conference units with a full range of audiovisual equipment are also available.
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Accommodation
MONTHLY NEWS
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Le Méridien Limassol Spa & Resort to Undergo Major Renovation
Le Méridien Limassol Spa & Resort
Le Méridien Limassol Spa & Resort’s management has revealed plans to undertake an extensive multi-million Euro renovation project slated for completion before the end of April 2015. Due to be carried out during the low-peak winter season starting in November, the seaside resort will be closed for over six months. During this period, all 235 rooms and seven suites of the main building as well as all the public areas will undergo major overhauls and improvements. Keeping in line with the Le Méridien brand’s five-star elegance and sophistication, the enhancements will include modern decor elements and stylish features reminiscent of a luxurious resort. Besides the rooms and suites, the property’s main lobby and front entrance, health club, gym and restaurants will also receive a facelift in the hopes that the changes will help to further consolidate the resort’s reputation.
Columbia Beach Resort Receives Four WTA Nods Columbia Beach Resort has been nominated for four awards at this year’s World Travel Awards (WTA). The five-star hotel in Pissouri Bay has already been honoured by WTA five times and will now compete in categories including Europe’s Leading All Suite Hotel, Mediterranean’s Leading Spa Resort, Cyprus’ Leading Resort and Cyprus’ Leading Spa Resort. “We are delighted that our success as a first-class resort is being recognised in so many differing categories, by the WTA this year,” commented Anthea Vikis, marketing manager, Cyprus, Columbia Hotels & Resorts. “It is an especially great honour to be nominated for Europe’s Leading All Suite Hotel, as this is a brand new nomination for us and it would be fantastic to add this to our previous wins.” This year, the ceremony will be held in August in Athens.
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Aqua Sol Hotels Claims Sun Hall Hotel Aqua Sol Hotels has proclaimed that it has the management rights for Sun Hall Hotel in Larnaca on the basis of a written lease with the owning company, Sun Hall. According to the announcement, Aqua Sol Hotels is the official operator of the unit and will continue to carry out this role, exercising its legal rights which result from the relevant contract. Therefore any news or claims that suggest a difference of terms, or that Sun Hall Hotel is to be handed over to the Church of Cyprus, are not valid.
Sun Hall Hotel
Cyprus’ Hotels Take on New Sustainability Standards In a world-first development, mandatory sustainability standards for hotel establishments have been approved by Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO), meaning that every hospitality unit operating on the island must take action to protect the environment and support the local community. The new minimum criteria are part of a wider programme of reforms from CTO, the Cyprus Sustainable Tourism Initiative and The Travel Foundation, aiming to make the Mediterranean hotspot a leading destination for sustainable tourism. Lefkos Phylactides, director of tourism, CTO, remarked, “These minimum standards are not just good business sense; they will help us protect the very things that draw people to Cyprus: our landscapes, our culture and heritage, and our welcoming people.”
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TRAVEL CHANNELS
Cyprus to Welcome Solar Park The cabinet recently approved the construction of two projects using innovative technologies in renewable energy sources.
A
important for the country. They will be both built by 2016 and will generate expected growth in green energy and also create green jobs and in this way we can fight and youth unemployment,” Kouyialis added. The two solar thermal parks will be based in Agios Ioannis Malountas and Alassa, Limassol and are deemed very important for the NER300 programme, a financing instrument managed jointly by the European Commission for the installation of innovative renewable energy technology in the European Union.
ccording to Nikos Kouyialis, minister of agriculture, natural resources and environment, Cyprus, the first project is a solar thermal park which is valued at around EUR175 million, while the other initiative concerns the development of a smart grid to manage energy from renewable sources and is expected to cost EUR46 million. “These projects will be financed by the European Union and private investments and I believe that they are very
European Passenger Traffic Soars European airport trade body, Airports Council International (ACI) Europe has released its latest traffic results for the month of February across its network of airports. The report includes 189 airports representing approximately 88 percent of European air traveller traffic, and shows that passenger volumes at these hubs rose 5.3 percent compared to the same period in 2013. With almost all national markets reporting healthy growth, including those most affected by the recent Sovereign debt and economic crises, airports within the European Union (EU) witnessed a 4.1 percent rise. Meanwhile, at non-EU airports, traffic was up 9.6 percent, with Iceland, Turkey, Ukraine, Moldova and Israel growing well above average. Correspondingly aircraft movements for the continent jumped 2.5 percent, reflecting a moderate yet uneven increase in airline capacity being put into the market. Air freight traffic also followed an upward trend, posting a 3.1 percent year-on-year growth for the same period.
New EU Rules on Airport Noise The European Parliament has implemented a new regulation on the establishment of rules and procedures with regards to the introduction of noise-related operating restrictions. The new legislation will require the adoption of new measures to be preceded by a comprehensive noise assessment. Based on the European Commission’s data, air traffic noise affects some 2.5 million citizens in Europe, and as Siim Kallas, vice president, transport, European Commission, explained, the new principles will make it easier to find solutions that will satisfy those living close to airports without losing sight of the important economic impact that airports have on economies.
Global Leisure Bookings and Rates Boosted According to Pegasus Solutions, a processor of electronic hotel transactions, global online bookings for leisure travel rose 4.6 percent and rates climbed four percent in February. Increased consumer confidence and willingness to spend contributed to leisure travel growth in the month under review. Bookings in February show March arrivals decreased by six percent from 2013, rising by 8.2 percent over April 2013. Stays will be booked at higher rates worldwide, increasing at an expected monthly average of five percent for arrivals from March through to June. Global corporate bookings in February grew 1.5 percent over 2013, a slight jump from January’s improvement of one percent. “The hotels that benefitted most from February’s incremental demand were those that were able to ‘look-up’ from their on-site tasks long enough to increase rates accordingly for the Friday the 14th weekend,” commented on the findings David Millili, CEO, Pegasus Solutions.
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Q & A with Christina Michael Seeking to improve the landscape of aviation education in Cyprus, Airtravel Aviation Academy was founded in November 2013, and here Christina Michael, marketing director and public relations, Airtravel Aviation Academy, speaks about the faculty’s vision.
Travel Trade Cyprus: Tell us a bit about the academy and its main objectives, especially since it is the first International Air Transport Association (IATA)-certified aviation academy to open in Cyprus. Christina Michael: Airtravel Aviation Academy was founded with the aim to provide everybody, both financially and practically, with the opportunity to receive a worldwide recognised diploma. Our goal is to train our students to the highest standards and equip them with the knowledge, training and necessary skills to ensure their successful entry into their future careers. With these training programmes, Airtravel Aviation Academy in conjunction with IATA and Harvard ManageMentor, [an online learning and performance support resource] are all contributing to the next generation of aviation and travel professionals worldwide. The IATA/Harvard ManageMentor courses offered at the facility include leadership and management training programmes specialising in aviation, travel and tourism or cargo.
At our academy, our instructors are of the highest calibre carrying many years of experience in their various fields, which include aviation, travel agencies, logistics and airport operations. They are IATA- and Harvard-approved, and their goal is to professionally train our students with high standards and equip them with the knowledge, train-
Christina Michael Marketing director and public relations, Airtravel Aviation Academy
Travel Trade Cyprus: Airtravel Aviation Academy is in close collaboration with Greek-based Airline Training Center. Tell us about this cooperation. Christina Michael: Our cooperation with the Greek Airline Training Center has the aim to exchange students between Greece and Cyprus, as both academies are IATA-certified training centres.
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Christina Michael: We already offer courses which have started, and at this moment we cater only to Cypriots students, but in the future we aim to have international students at our academy. Our courses mainly include training for working in an airport – ground handling, cargo security, dangerous goods regulations (DGR), and customer service; for an airline – cabin crew, ticketing, customer service, cargo, DGR; for travel agencies – reservations, ticketing, marketing, business plan; general logistics for cargo management; and safety and security. Travel Trade Cyprus: In your opinion, what are the main benefits students can gain from studying at the academy?
Travel Trade Cyprus: What urged you to establish the academy and what were the main obstacles you faced during the process? How is the facility expected to boost the local tourism industry? Christina Michael: The understanding of educational practices on international standards and industry regulations ensures the courses meet identified challenges in the workplace. As the only professional training centre in Cyprus and the Middle East that is recognised by IATA, we have the potential to train hundreds of aviation professionals and businesses each year, with the commitment towards a career growth for a workforce that keeps our industry safe and sustainable.
interest from students up to this point? Are you mainly focusing on the Cypriot market or are you planning on targeting international students as well?
ing and necessary skills to ensure them entry successfully into their prospective careers. Travel Trade Cyprus: Has there been sufficient
Christina Michael: With these training programmes, Airtravel Aviation Academy, in conjunction with IATA and Harvard, are all contributing to the next generation of aviation and travel personnel worldwide. Our students, armed with the worldwide, recognised qualifications of IATA, could also choose to further their studies by pursuing the Harvard qualification on leadership and management. Whether the student is expert or inexperienced, our academy is the only internationally approved training academy, which guarantees success for a professional career.
travel talk is your space
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TRAVEL TALK SALLI FELTON
WES PORTER
Acting CEO, The Travel Foundation.
CEO, Hermes Airports.
“It has been fantastic to support Cyprus. Their commitment to implementing minimum sustainability standards [in all hospitality units across the island] has created a national framework that will ensure sustainability is business as usual rather than an optional extra. This step change will see Cyprus leading the way where other destinations are sure to follow.”
This step change will see Cyprus leading the way where other destinations are sure to follow
“During the month of April, travellers [had] the opportunity to experience unique moments from the rich cultural heritage of the island right here at Larnaka International Airport. We here at Hermes Airports support every effort aimed at developing the tourist product of Cyprus and by extension the economy of the country. We are committed to actively participating in the greater effort made by Cypriots to achieve the recovery of the country’s economy.”
PETER BAUMGARTNER
PAMBOS MICHAEL
Chief commercial officer, Etihad Airways.
General manager, Coral Beach Hotel & Resort, Paphos.
“The increases in frequency and capacity [between Abu Dhabi and Larnaca and Athens] demonstrate our commitment to build a global, connected network. In the case of Athens, our new flights will offer guests the choice of two different departure times to and from Abu Dhabi, and in the case of Larnaca, the additional flights will provide more choice and flexibility, as well as better connectivity over Abu Dhabi. The additional services will also support the growth of business and leisure traffic over Abu Dhabi, and offer travellers greater choice of destinations [...].”
“[Soviet cosmonaut] Alexander Volkov [who recently spent his holiday at Coral Beach Hotel & Resort in Paphos] is not only a legend but he has also become a very good friend. He will soon be returning to Cyprus as he informed us, where he will continue to enjoy the beautiful weather and the clear atmosphere we have, and where he is able to see and contemplate the universe with which he has connected his entire life.”
TRAVEL TALK IS YOUR SPACE – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, frustrations and observations to editorial@traveltradecyprus.travel JUNE 2014
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Q & A with Ahmed Janahi Bahrain’s national carrier, Gulf Air remains committed to strengthening its presence in Cyprus and considers the country as one of its key markets according to Ahmed Janahi, acting chief commercial officer, Gulf Air, who explains below exactly why that is.
Travel Trade Cyprus: What made Gulf Air include Cyprus in its global network back in 1976, and what keeps making the island an attractive destination for the airline? Ahmed Janahi: In its role as Bahrain’s national carrier providing direct air links between Bahrain and Cyprus, Gulf Air has been instrumental in the success of the tourism, trade and business relationship between the two economies. Importantly, Cyprus is a popular holiday destination with several attractions that appeal to Bahrainbased and regional travellers. The strong two-way flow of tourism traffic that we have seen consistently between Bahrain and Cyprus is a testament to what they both have to offer in terms of seasonal and yearlong tourism. The airline also provides excellent connectivity for passengers travelling from Cyprus to the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent and Asia catering to travellers that wish to visit the region on holiday or for business.
into their desired position. [...] For our economy class passengers, Gulf Air took their feedback onboard and tailored a product offering that features economy class seats with a 10cm recline, a 46cm seat-width and an adjustable head and foot rest allowing greater passenger comfort. The seats are fitted with 23cm seat back TV monitors that
Ahmed Janahi Acting chief commercial officer, Gulf Air
Travel Trade Cyprus: Gulf Air also opened new offices in Nicosia in 2013. How is this expected to help extend the airline’s market reach within the country?
Travel Trade Cyprus: Have passenger numbers on the Larnaca – Bahrain route increased in the first quarter of this year? Ahmed Janahi: We have witnessed a promising growth in passenger numbers on the Larnaca – Bahrain route in the first quarter of the year compared to 2013 – which we hope to build upon going forward. Travel Trade Cyprus: In November 2013 Gulf Air introduced its luxurious Airbus A320-ER on the Larnaca – Bahrain route. Which other offerings can Cyprus-bound passengers onboard Gulf Air enjoy? Ahmed Janahi: Gulf Air’s Airbus A320-ER is designed specifically for Gulf Air and integrates features based on feedback from customers. Accordingly, it is the only aircraft in its class, in the region, featuring fully-flatbed seats in the premium cabin. The configuration of the new Falcon Gold cabin also allows for more space between seats than the airline’s previous business class product, allowing passengers to sit back, relax and enjoy more personal space in a 22 inch wide armchair that converts easily
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As such, Gulf Air has embarked on an aggressive and proactive re-fleeting and product enhancement strategy over the past three years. Today the airline’s fleet is one of the youngest in the region with an average age of 5.7 years. The Airbus A320-ER aircraft which services Gulf Air’s Larnaca route is an example of this enhancement strategy and passenger feedback to date has been overwhelmingly positive. In terms of its network, Gulf Air has recently commenced operations to five new destinations: Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai, Mashhad and Tehran in Iran, Sialkot in Pakistan and Thiruvananthapuram in India, increasing its reach and connecting its passengers to a wider network.
are ideal for enjoying the airline’s extensive in-flight entertainment options. Beyond that, in our efforts to ensure that our passengers enjoy every aspect of their journey with Gulf Air our dedicated Gulf Air Falcon Gold Lounge in Bahrain International Airport caters to onward-bound travellers giving them the opportunity to relax, have a meal, catch-up on business emails, or spend quality time at in the allocated family room, before their flight. Travel Trade Cyprus: What does the carrier have in store for its devoted passengers taking off from and to Cyprus? Ahmed Janahi: One of the key components of Gulf Air’s new business strategy is to focus on improving the airline’s products and services both in the air and on the ground to meet the wpassengers’ evolving travel needs.
Ahmed Janahi: The opening of Gulf Air’s office in Nicosia is a reflection of Gulf Air’s focus on, and commitment to, serving the marketplace and airline customers in Cyprus. This office is dedicated to catering to the travel needs of Gulf Air passengers in Cyprus, who represent one of the airline’s important market segments. The modern and fully-equipped sales office, centrally and conveniently located in Nicosia, offers a spacious waiting lounge, complimentary Wi-Fi service and a number of helpdesks to easily and efficiently serve walk-in customers. [...]The airline operates one the largest networks in the Middle East, with double daily flights to over 10 regional capitals, from its hub at Bahrain International Airport. Accordingly, Gulf Air provides excellent connectivity for passengers travelling from Cyprus to the Middle East in addition to various destinations within the airline’s Indian subcontinent and Asia network. The airline offers passengers a variety of comforts, alongside its trademark Arabian hospitality, with a range of signature family and business-friendly products and services. Over the next few years, the airline will continue to deliver on its promise of improving all aspects of its product and service offering while proactively leveraging opportunities to strengthen its network through identifying niche opportunities that will better serve passengers.