World Travel Market - 2018

WTM 2018 WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS HEADED TO PORTUGAL FOR GRAND FINAL 2018

More than 300 executives from the airline, hotel, car rental and spa industries will gather for the World Travel Awards Grand Final on December 1st. Winners from the 25th annual Grand Tour - which has taken in stops in Jamaica, South Africa, Ecuador and Greece among others - will attend to see who has been crowned the best in the world.

World Travel Awards president Graham Cooke said: “As we continue to celebrate our

Silver Jubilee, it is a pleasure to reveal we will be heading to Portugal for our Grand Final this year. Tourism on the Iberian Peninsula has undergone a dramatic surge in recent years and I can think of no better place to welcome the elite of the hospitality industry.�

World Travel Awards was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry. Today, the brand

is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of quality, with winners setting the benchmark to which all others aspire. Each year, World Travel Awards covers the globe with a series of regional gala ceremonies staged to recognise and celebrate individual and collective success within each key geographical region.

World Travel Awards gala ceremonies are widely regarded as the best networking opportunities in the travel

industry, attended by government and industry leaders, luminaries and international print and broadcast media.

As part of the Grand Tour 2018, World Travel Awards has also hosted ceremonies in Ras Al Khaimah in United Arab Emirates and Hong Kong.

MORE INFORMATION

Find out more about the World Travel Awards on the official website at www. worldtravelawards.com.

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World Travel Market London will this year be held at ExCeL London between November 5-7th.

World Travel Market London is the leading global event for the travel industry, generating more than £2.9 billion of business contracts between attendees. Now in its 38th year, this show attracts a global audience that shape the travel industry. Over three days, the travel industry comes together as almost 5,000 exhibiting destinations, technology and private sector companies to find and network with 51,000 travel professionals, key industry buyers, journalists, digital influencers, students and tourism ministers.

This vibrant event offers the opportunity to discover the world under one roof, and be inspired by industry leaders discussing trends, issues and innovations in the travel industry.

NEWS

Invitees, Ministers, Speakers and International Press only.

• Tuesday, November 7th, 10:00-18:00 • Admission to registered Exhibitors, Exhibitor Invitees, WTM Buyers’ Club members, Travel Trade professionals, Ministers, Speakers and International Press.

• Wednesday, November 8th, 10:00-18:00

FEATURES OF THE SHOW

The exhibition floor at World Travel Market London is divided geographically and by sector to encourage networking opportunities between attendees with relevant business interests. Exhibitor stands are grouped by geographical area, with a global village for international exhibitors.

There are also dedicated feature areas for companies specialising in travel technology, wellness & spa, and luxury travel.

Exhibitors invite you to experience their culture with on-stand presentations featuring dance, costumes, cuisine and arts. From 17:00, some exhibitors choose to host networking events which offer unique cultural showcases.

Learn about travel trends, issues and innovations with seminars held by industry leaders. Seminars take place across four stages on the exhibition

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floor, and upstairs in the south gallery rooms and platinum suites.

NEW THIS YEAR

The new World Travel Market Agency Pavilion will be launched at in London this year to represent marketing, PR, digital influencer, social media SEO and PPC agencies that are looking to sell their expertise to the global travel and tourism industry. The Agency Pavilion will be located near the International Media Centre ME580 the heart of the action at WTM London.

And in each zone a wealth of new discoveries awaits.

You’ll find the 2018 programme has nearly doubled in size, with each Inspiration Zone offering a wealth of new content and talking points.

Admission to registered Exhibitors, Exhibitor Invitees, WTM Buyers’ Club members, Travel Trade professionals, Ministers, Speakers, International Press & Students.

WTM LONDON OPENING TIMES

• Monday, November 6th, 10:00-19:00 • Admission to registered Exhibitors, Exhibitor

World Travel Market is also this year bringing Inspiration Zones to the show this year. Imagine a conference that opens up the whole world for you to explore, revealing undiscovered experiences and ideas. This year you’ll find the show floor transformed into regionally themed Inspiration Zones.

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NEWS

HEADLINES

With so much happening here at World Travel Market, it can be difficult to keep up. Here Breaking Travel News brings you the latest headlines

SINGAPORE AIRLINES

Singapore Airlines has launched the world’s longest commercial flight, between Singapore and New York. Operated by the all-new Airbus A350900ULR, daily operations have now begun. Designed with the customers’ well-being in mind, sleep strategies and specific cabin lighting settings to enhance cabin ambience for rest and relaxation were also introduced. The aircraft is designed with higher ceilings, larger windows and an extra wide body to help reduce jetlag and ensure that customers feel well rested and relaxed upon arrival.

Customers can also experience high-speed in-flight Wi-Fi service on Singapore Airlines’ new A350900ULR aircraft. Equipped with Panasonic Avionics’ new satellite modem that operates with its third-generation satellite network,

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the service is capable of delivering higher-speed Internet to customers.

Currently available on A350-900ULR aircraft in Singapore Airlines’ fleet, this service will be progressively introduced on other aircraft that are equipped with Panasonic Avionics’ Internet and mobile in-flight connectivity.

“Singapore Airlines is proud to introduce the world’s longest commercial flights with the new A350-900ULR and we are even more excited to be providing customers with improved connectivity between Singapore and the United States. This demonstrates our commitment to putting our customers’ needs at the forefront of all that we do,” said Singapore Airlines chief executive, Goh Choon Phong.

HAINAN AIRLINES

Radisson Hotel Group has announced a new

strategic partnership with Hainan Airlines. Hainan is owned by HNA Group, a China-based conglomerate which is also a majority owner of Radisson Hotel Group. These two global companies will now deepen their relationship even further with an extensive strategic cooperation that covers several areas, including a loyalty program partnership, and coordinated marketing and social media campaigns.

To kick off this partnership, members of Radisson Rewards, the global rewards program from Radisson Hotel Group, will be able to redeem their points for flights with Hainan Airlines and nine other leading carriers under the Fortune Wings Club frequent flyer program. Radisson Rewards members will now be able to exchange Radisson Rewards points for Fortune Wings points.

This partnership will be promoted via both companies’ marketing and social media channels, including WeChat and Weibo.

“As a member of HNA’s family of brands, Radisson Hotel Group joins an extensive global network of like-minded companies, and brings its products

and services to key feeder markets like China. We are delighted to offer our loyal guests the chance to experience the five-star service of Hainan Airlines and its sister carriers through this rewarding new partnership. We also look forward to opening our global hotel network to Fortune Wings Club members,” said Eric De Neef, global chief commercial officer, Radisson Hotel Group.

The partnership will see ten Radisson Rewards points equivalent to one Fortune Wings point, with the minimum redemption being 2,000 Radisson Rewards points, which converts to 200 Fortune Wings points.

“We are happy to deepen our relationship with Radisson Hotel Group through this new global partnership,” commented Wang Zhen, chief executive officer, HiApp, HNA Aviation & Tourism Group.

“Our two companies share many common values, including our commitment to providing world-class service. “We look forward to sharing the benefits of our expanded global network with all of our esteemed customers, wherever in the world they travel.”

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NEWS

HEADLINES

Here Breaking Travel News brings you the latest headlines from around World Travel Market SANDALS RESORTS

Sandals Resorts is now offering couples to chance to jet off to the Caribbean for a last-minute weekend break in the sunshine, with the all-new Sandals Weekenders. With Sandals Weekenders, couples can enjoy unlimited luxury with Sandals Resorts’ Luxury-Included offering, in a limited time of just three nights. Guests will now be able to experience the very best of the Caribbean in a perfect weekend escape.

Currently offering weekend breaks to Antigua and Barbados due to the shorter flight durations and easy airport transfers, couples will have the choice of Sandals Grande Antigua, Sandals Royal Barbados or Sandals Barbados. Guests can experience unlimited luxury including 11 restaurants and six bars at Sandals Grande Antigua, and 17 restaurants and five bars across sister properties Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados.

Sandals Grande Antigua can be found on the beautiful island of Antigua on what is known as the best of the destination’s 365 beaches. This resort has been named as the world’s most romantic

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resort and the world’s leading honeymoon resort nine times in the prestigious World Travel Awards over the last two decades.

Millionaire Butler Suites and Skypool Suites, along with an extensive Crystal Lagoon Pool Complex with Swim-Up Suites.

The brand’s newest property, Sandals Royal Barbados, will also participate and is located on Dover Beach in the renowned St. Lawrence Gap, it became the second Sandals resort to open on the picturesque and exclusive island. All 222 rooms are butler and concierge suites and include Sandals’ signature Rondovals,

For guests in select top category suites, Sandals Royal Barbados also introduces the additional pampering of chauffeured Rolls-Royce airport transfers.

SAXON HOTEL, VILLAS & SPA

Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa has unveiled the new 400sqm Nelson Mandela

Platinum Suite during the centenary year of the late president and philanthropist. The stylish new suite is a fitting tribute to the statesman who was closely connected with Saxon owners, the Steyn family, as well as being a regular hotel guest. Mandela also completed his bestselling autobiography Long Walk to Freedom at the Saxon following his release from prison.

Johannesburg artist Dean Simon, whose pencil sketches adorn the walls

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NEWS

of the Saxon including several well-known pieces of the late former president, was tasked with the complete redesign and renovation of the existing Nelson Mandela Suite.

Taking inspiration from Madiba’s Xhosa heritage, Simon has created a striking new suite featuring bespoke pieces of art and furniture, with an authentically African look and feel taking the guest on a journey through Mandela’s

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life, from his days as a young militant through to a wiser and more mature statesman. In keeping with the distinctly African theme, dark wood features heavily along with animal skin rugs, authentic cooper lamps and geometric African patterns running through the soft furnishings. The architraves and doors feature traditional carving with images of crocodiles, lizards and birds: symbols of protection and good luck.

On launching the new Nelson Mandela Platinum Suite, Saxon managing director, George Cohen, commented: “It has always been an honour for us at the Saxon to have had this connection with Madiba, and we are delighted to be able to acknowledge this with the design of the new Mandela Suite.”

renovation programme throughout the Saxon, which included the new Saxon Spa in 2016, the hotel suites in 2017 as well as Grei Restaurant in 2018. The renovations at the property – recognised as the World’s Leading Boutique Hotel by the World Travel Awards - will continue into next year.

The launch of the new-look Nelson Mandela Platinum Suite is part of an ongoing

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AEROFLOT EXPANDS GLOBAL REACH FOR 2018 WINTER SEASON Recognised with the title of World’s Leading Airline Brand at the World Travel Awards, we here take a look at all the latest headlines from Russian flag-carrier Aeroflot Aeroflot has launched its winter flight schedule for the upcoming season, with departures to a number of new European and Asian destinations. Sunseekers will enjoy a new five-timesper-week service to Colombo, the commercial and cultural capital of Sri Lanka, as well as three weekly flights to the capital of Bali,

Denpasar (flights will be operated by Aeroflot subsidiary Rossiya Airlines).

In Europe, Aeroflot is also launching new daily flights to Ljubljana, Gothenburg and Dublin.

Under the new winter flight schedule, Aeroflot will increase frequencies to pop-

ular leisure destinations including Dubai, Bangkok and Phuket. Flights to Dubai will operate four times per day, with one flight per day flying from Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport to the modern Al Maktoum International Airport, which is easily accessible from the most popular resorts and busiest commercial centres of the city. On the Moscow-Bangkok route, Aeroflot will now offer three daily flights, while the number of weekly flights on the Moscow-Phuket route will increase from seven to ten.

Additional flight frequencies and the new destinations further expand transit opportunities for travellers flying between Europe and Asia. In recent years Aeroflot has established a reputation as a top choice for transit passengers, offering customers convenient connections through the

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company’s Moscow hub.

Moscow’s geographical location and the seamless connectivity through modern facilities at Sheremetyevo Airport mean that journeys between different continents can be two hours or even shorter than via other major hubs. At the same time, Aeroflot offers its passengers topclass service and some of the most affordable fares globally.

Vitaly Saveliev, chief executive of Aeroflot, said: “Today Aeroflot ranks as a leading global carrier and we continue to expand our international route network. This winter we will open new routes as well as increasing flight frequencies to popular destinations.”

He added: “We are pleased to offer travellers new international destinations as well as additional flights to popular tourist destina-

F E AT U R E

tions, thus expanding travel options with Aeroflot for both business and leisure travellers.”

finalists by an expert jury that included members of Aeroflot’s Management Board.

NEW LIVERY

Ekaterina Lesik took first place in the competition with a white and blue design in stylised traditional Russian patterns.

An Airbus 321 was painted according to the design of the competition winner.

The aircraft bears the name of the celebrated theatre director Yuri Lyubimov.

Earlier this year, Aeroflot presented an aircraft decked out in the company’s 95th anniversary celebration livery at Sheremetyevo airport. In the summer of 2017 Aeroflot announced a competition to design an aircraft livery.

Members of the public were given the opportunity to create their own livery design and upload it to the contest website.

The next step was online voting, which narrowed the field to ten finalists.

Then the winner was chosen from among the

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major European airline group. It operates one of the youngest fleets globally. The extensive route network embraces 152 destinations in 55 countries. Aeroflot’s fleet the youngest industrywide comprises modern Airbus, Boeing and Sukhoi Superjet 100 aircraft. It ensures

time-saving Europe-Asia transit service via its Sheremetyevo hub. Integrating a blend of top-industry standards and traditional hospitality Aeroflot provides superb service and comfort, which is evidenced by numerous international awards and positive customer reviews.

The aircraft performed its first flights in its festive livery on the Moscow-Yerevan route.

AEROFLOT

Aeroflot is Russia’s largest airline and a

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Aeroflot’s 250-strong fleet whose average age stands at mere four years - is the youngest of any airline worldwide that operates more than 100 aircraft. In addition to the safety and reliability the youngest fleet guarantees latest cabin design, state-of-theart onboard equipment, immaculate cleanliness as well as superior environmental credentials.

Aeroflot, together with subsidiaries and partners, serves over 300 destinations in over 60 countries.

The expansive network includes 53 points in Russia, 18 points in CIS, 55 points in Europe and 14 points in Asia.

Aeroflot’s premium-level long-haul product is based on Boeing 777 and Airbus 330 fleet featuring 62/60inch pitch full-flat seats.

Aeroflot Comfort Class offering comprises varied inflight entertainment, personalised service and splendid on-board catering with haute-cuisine dishes, exquisite wines and signature cocktails, a

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la carte menu, real china/ glassware, Salvatore Ferragamo amenity kit.

The Aeroflot business class catering conjures up restaurant visit experiences. And maintains true premium-class standards even on short- and medium-haul intra-European flights, featuring wide seats, spacious aisles and exclusive catering.

In premium economy the Comfort Class-branded option is offered on Boeing B777s equipped with enhanced comfort seats, USB-ports, sockets and Thales multimedia system integrated.

Aeroflot’s economy class offering features lucrative fares and value for money as certified by global rankings and passenger reviews. The economy class cabin is designed with ergonomic principles in mind, featuring reclining seats with an up to 32inch pitch (depending on aircraft type) and providing adequate legroom and reasonable privacy.

F E AT U R E

TECHNOLOGY

Aeroflot is one of the world’s leading airlines in the digital arena, leveraging the latest tech across both its frontline service and daily operations.

Heavy investment in tech allows Aeroflot to have

new in-seat widescreen monitors containing multichannel video/audio programs in wide-body fleet cabins, and the B737 business class cabins are similarly equipped, with economy class passengers on these aircraft able

to access information and entertainment content with their mobile devices connecting via inflight Wi-Fi. In addition, on many medium-haul flights, business class passengers are offered premier tablets.

Aeroflot’s modern fleet is Wi-Fi enabled with the Lufthansa BoardConnect streaming service and the program is being extended to include mid-haul aircraft.

press tickets. Aeroflot now offers clients both IOS and Android-based mobile apps with similar functionality to desktop. In the base airport passengers can use self-service kiosks to check-in.

MORE INFORMATION

Aeroflot is Russia’s flagship carrier and a proud member of the SkyTeam global airline alliance.

Please find out more on the official website at www.aeroflot.com.

The nine-language corporate website has been the biggest online store in Russia since 2014. It allows passengers not only to book and pay tickets, but also reserve accommodation, rent a car, make an insurance and medical policy and buy Aeroex-

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ART AT CHANGI AIRPORT, SINGAPORE Recognised as the World’s Leading Airport for the past eight years by the World Travel Awards, Changi Airport is always looking for new ways to wow passengers. Here we take a tour of some of the fantastic art works on offer at this one of a kind location

The centrepiece of Terminal 4 at Changi Airport, Singapore, is Petalclouds, a grand-scale kinetic sculpture. It consists of six structures suspended 200 metres across the Central Galleria and it can be seen from the departure check-in hall, transit area and arrival hall. Petalclouds is a complex amal-

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gamation of art, music and science and delivers an enthralling and magical experience to its audience.

The piece moves gracefully to classic music specially composed by BAFTA award-winning composer, Ólafur Arnalds.

Made of 1,216 bronze droplets, the two Kinetic

Rain sculptures in Terminal 1 are a cornerstone of Changi Airport’s collection of art installations and displays. Measuring 9.8 by 4 metres, each sculpture can form 16 different shapes ranging from abstract art forms to recognisable patterns including an aeroplane, a hot air balloon, a kite and

even a dragon. The design element in each shape shows the movement of flight through slow, fluid movements. Each droplet weighs 180 grams and is made of lightweight aluminium with a hollow centre. The droplets are specially coated with polished copper to prevent the surface from oxidisa-

F E AT U R E calm amidst a burst of colour and activity. The seeds of the dandelions floating across the Crystal Garden represent passengers on their onward journeys, spreading out to different corners of the world, as seeds would travel.

tion or rust. Depending on the shape of the art form, the droplets travel a maximum distance of 7.3 metres from the ceiling to the lowest point of the pattern.

Inspired by Peranakan shophouses nestled around Singapore, this Heritage Zone houses familiar traditional brands Bee Cheng Hiang, Bengawan Solo, Curry Times, Eu Yan Sang and Heavenly Wang, with heritage-themed facades, interior design and furnishings to invoke a sense of nostalgia. A 6-minute performance of the Peranakan Love Story is another highlight of the zone, where an unlikely romance blossoms between 2 passionate musician-neighbours living next to each other, set in 1930s Singapore.

spheres of artisan dandelion glass sculptures in varying sizes. It comprises of 1,735 Bohemian glass components hand blown with different finishes, giving the sculpture richness and texture.

Finally, China-based artist Han Meilin’s colossal 900 kilogramme Coming Home sculpture follows a theme that is intrinsically Confucian yet universal – the importance of family.

The sculpture represents a family nucleus through three varieties of metal: steel for the father, bronze for the mother and gold

for the child perched on the patriarch’s shoulder. The chief designer for “fuwa” – the Beijing Olympic mascots - Han surrounds the family with a flock of birds, articulating the notion of returning and being homeward bound. The sculpture is appropriately located within the South Arrival Immigration Hall.

MORE INFORMATION

Find out more about Changi Airport, Singapore, at www.changiairport.com or follow @ChangiAirport on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Embracing the philosophy that nature soothes, the Crystal Garden also gently integrates nature into the Central Piazza, presenting travellers with an interesting juxtaposition of poetic

The Crystal Garden is brought to life by tiered garden beds incorporating a curated selection of flowering plants and 12

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BREAKING TRAVEL NEWS INTERVIEW:

MARTIN GAUSS, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, AIRBALTIC

airBaltic has been revitalised in recent years, returning from the point of bankruptcy to become one of the fastest growing carriers in eastern Europe. Here Breaking Travel News talks with Martin Gauss, chief executive of the carrier, about its recent success and the challenges that are ahead

Breaking Travel News: airBaltic concluded the first half of 2018 with a total revenue of â‚Ź181 million, a 19 per cent increase over the same period last year.

What has changed?

Martin Gauss: As more of the Airbus A220-300 aircraft are joining our fleet, we can expand the scope

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of operations by offering more tickets on sale to a wider variety of destinations. During the first six months of 2018, our seat capacity increased by 18 per cent, much in line with the increase in the total revenue of the company.

Already 2017 was a record year for airBaltic, as we carried 3.5 million pas-

sengers and total revenue increased by 22 per cent.

This year we are continuing our sustainable growth path and targeting carrying four million passengers. We announced an order of up to 60 additional Airbus A220-300 aircraft this May. This order serves as a backbone of

our new business plan Destination 2025, which relies on expansion of routes from all three Baltic countries – Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania.

BTN: The figures complete a remarkable turnaround at the airline. How important has ownership by the Latvian government

INTERVIEW

been in the revitalisation of the carrier?

MG: Latvian government fully understands the role airBaltic has in connecting Latvia to the world. airBaltic plays an important role in ensuring air connectivity to Latvia, opening new opportunities for economic development of the country and the region. As a result, the impact of aviation industry on Latvian gross domestic product reaches 2.6 per cent. Latvian state has been a shareholder of airBaltic under various governments, and has consequently supported company’s development.

Considering airBaltic’s role in the connectivity of Lat-

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via and the Baltic states, Latvian government is interested in seeing further development of the company.

BTN: With the growth of Wizz Air out of Hungary, the continued success of easyJet and Ryanair, and the ambitions of LOT Poland, a revitalised Aeroflot and Finnair, you operate in a competitive geographical area. Can your rate of growth continue?

MG: We stand out from the competition, as we are a hybrid airline offering the best from traditional

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and ultra-low-cost carriers.

In essence, it means that we offer full business class service as well as affordable basic economy tickets on our flights. With small turnaround times at our home base in Riga, we will often offer the fastest connections, for example, for travel between Europe and our destinations in Russia and the CIS. Competition in the European aviation sector has been fierce for a very long time, yet that did not stop us from reaching our aims in the past and it will not stand in the way in the

future. Competition may, of course, influence specific plans on frequencies and capacities on certain routes, but it is only one among many factors that influence our decision-making process.

BTN: As the preeminent employer of what is now known as the A220, will the acquisition of the Bombardier CSeries by Airbus have any material impact on the operations of airBaltic?

MG: With the Airbus involvement in the programme, airBaltic is glad

to have another very strong partner by its side. As the owner of the controlling stake in the programme, Airbus with its vast experience and resources clearly has a central role in further enhancing the maintenance support strategy. So far, airBaltic has received eleven of its Airbus A220-300 orders. Aircraft has performed beyond company’s expectations, delivering better overall performance, fuel efficiency and convenience for both staff and the passengers.

The fuel economy of Airbus A220-300 has reached 22 per cent.

INTERVIEW

BTN: You have signed a number of codeshare partnerships this year, with Air Malta and TAP Portugal among others. What do these relationships offer to passengers at airBaltic?

MG: One of our business aims is to connect Baltics with one stop to almost any destination in the world. Our codeshare and interline partners allow our passengers to make easy, convenient and affordable reservations to destinations currently not served by airBaltic. By signing new codeshare partnerships with Air Malta and TAP Air Portugal this year,

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we now have 21 different codeshare partners.

For example, our latest partnership with TAP Air Portugal has further improved the connectivity between Baltics and such regions as Portugal, Brazil and Africa.

BTN: airBaltic has been open in its search for new pilots – is there a shortage coming in this sector?

MG: As airBaltic is continuing its growth and plans to increase the size of its fleet over the upcoming years, the company is looking for more pilots to join it. Considering the

growth of the company and the changing pilot industry, this year airBaltic has further improved its pilot remuneration system, making employment at the company even more attractive. In addition, airBaltic has launched its own Pilot Academy, whose first class of students has already completed theoretical training and have started practical flight training with state-of-theart Diamond Aircraft.

MORE INFORMATION

airBaltic serves over 70 destinations from Riga, Tallinn and Vilnius, offering the largest variety of

destinations and convenient connections via Riga to its network spanning Europe, Scandinavia, the CIS and the Middle East.

For summer 2019, airBaltic has introduced three new destinations from Tallinn to Malaga, Brussels and Copenhagen. In addition, next summer airBaltic will launch a new direct route connecting Riga and Stuttgart.

Find out more on the official website at www. airbaltic.com.

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BREAKING TRAVEL NEWS INTERVIEW:

RALPH RADTKE, GENERAL MANAGER, ÇIRAĞAN PALACE KEMPINSKI

Ralph Radtke, general manager of the iconic Çırağan Palace Kempinski in Istanbul, here sits down with Breaking Travel News editor Chris O’Toole to discuss the hotel, the hospitality market in Turkey and reflect on his legacy after 45 years at the top of the industry Ralph Radtke is not a man short of confidence. During our hour-long chat at Çırağan Palace Kempinski in Istanbul he compares himself, favourably, to British wartime leader Winston Churchill, and declares he could have been chancellor of Germany had that been his ambition. But such a larger than life charter is the perfect leader for a property such as Çırağan Palace – perhaps the most famous hotel in all of Turkey. With a history stretching back centuries, it is an icon in its own right, and a jewel in the Kempinski portfolio. “Çırağan Palace Kempinski is the most known hotel in Turkey, it has a place in the history of the country,” explains Radtke. “Three sultans lived here, and their stories are intertwined by the hotel – their affairs, intrigues, it was all here. This is a hotel with a turnover of US$100 million

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a year, it is not a small place, we have a team of 800 or more – we are not a small chateau where the manager cooks in the kitchen!”

Now in position for more than seven years, an unusually long tenure at this rarefied level of the hospitality sector, Radtke had in fact been trying to leave the industry before his appointment.

“I quit the hotel business, after a long time with Accor, where I was senior vice president for Sofitel in northern, central and eastern Europe, Turkey and Israel,” he tells me over coffee. “I was there, managing a portfolio of 15 hotels with a total turnover of €150 million, from 2007 until the summer of 2011, but I travelled too much. It was a great deal of work and I could not sleep in my bed when I came home – I said to my wife, ‘we have

to change the bed’. But I realised, I missed the Sofitel bed, I was so used to it, that I preferred it to my own home - this is when I knew I had to change. I took some time out, but visited Istanbul with my wife, who is Turkish, and we stayed here at Çırağan Palace Kempinski – we took a suite. In August

that year, the president of Kempinski contacted me and tried to convince me to join the hotel.

He adds: “I said, no, I am not interested – but my wife convinced me, and I started in October 2011 – so I was unable to quit the business.”

INTERVIEW

It took a hotel of the stature of Çırağan Palace to change his mind. The only Ottoman imperial palace on the Bosporus that once hosted sultans, the location has a heritage that dates to the 17th century. The building had different formations until the 19th century, including a waterside summer villa and a marble palace. In 1871, sultan Abdülaziz redesigned the palace with famous architects of the Balyan family, veterans of palace design in the Ottoman Empire. For the

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construction of the palace, the finest marbles, porphyries, mother-of-pearl and other valuable materials were brought from all over the world.

In 1909, Çırağan Palace was selected as the site for a significant meeting of the Turkish parliament, and shortly after the conclusion of the meeting, the palace interiors were destroyed by a fire. From 1930 on, the Besiktas Football Team even used the garden of the palace as their football stadi-

um. The building stayed unkempt after the fire, and finally in 1991, after a complete restoration and with the addition of a modern hotel building including elegant rooms, restaurants and meeting venues, the property reopened.

ICON OF ISTANBUL

Since its opening, Çırağan Palace continues to be a symbol of luxury.

“Here in Istanbul we have two Four Seasons, Raffles, Fairmont, St. Regis and

Shangri-La as well as a Mandarin Oriental and Peninsula under construction,” explains Radtke. “But we are strong, Çırağan Palace is a brand in its own right, outside of Kempinski, we could open a Çırağan Palace in New York or in London or wherever – when I say I am from the Çırağan Palace, people know the hotel.”

With its 313 rooms, including 20 suites in the hotel and 11 in the historical palace, the hotel reflects a harmonious blend of the

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heritage, haute couture service and Turkish hospitality. During their time at the hotel, guests can enjoy a rich variety of restaurants and feel themselves in an oasis in the city centre. There are also extensive leisure facilities including an infinity pool, sumptuous spa and verdant gardens.

delicacies. Flamboyant flowers, laced plates, cutleries, napkins, glasses, and the special embroidered uniforms of the staff complete the experience.

again in January – without our team we would be nowhere. But the exchange rate has made the destination more attractive, so that helps us.”

But, with Turkey currently undergoing a period of political turmoil, it has not all been plain sailing for Radtke and his team.

For those really looking to celebrate, Çırağan Palace Kempinski also offers the Sultans’ Dinner.

Drawing on the history of the property, and framed by antique candelabras, jardinière, 19th century carafes and an imperial silver coffee set, it offers a rich banquet of royal

“It is not the easiest time for sure, the Turkish lira is falling, so that is a problem – but also living in Turkey, for the local people, is getting more expensive, this builds pressure. We gave a five per cent salary increase to our staff, to recognise their contribution, and we will look

He adds: “What is more important though, are travel warnings, with the United States issuing warnings, it means travellers cannot get insurance, so they do not come. The Americans are an important market for us, followed by the UK and then Germany, but this is changing, under political pressure. We have seen, over time, more Middle Eastern guests: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Qatar and

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Bahrain have all grown for us. But we have a good balance, we seek not to put all our eggs in one basket. We have also been developing the Indian, Chinese and South American markets, a process that has been going on for a number of years, to prepare for this, a long-term project.”

Since its opening, Çırağan Palace Kempinski has been the only hotel in Istanbul reachable in three ways - by limousine, yacht or helicopter - and has seen countless eminent figures come through its doors, including government delegates, royal families and celebrities.

INTERVIEW

It has also been recognised as the best in the business, with voters at the World Travel Awards honouring the hotel with the prize for World’s Leading Heritage Hotel for the past three years.

“Awards are always nice, it is first of all recognition for the team here, a motivation for them to continue what they are doing,” adds Radtke. “On the other side, it is security for the guests, who know they are getting the best.

We promote the awards, although not in an aggressive way; we want to share our happiness with guests.

These awards are for all

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of Turkey, the hotel is so well known, these titles are good for the country. Çırağan Palace is a timeless place, and these awards recognise this.”

On a personal note, Radtke, who turns 66 at the end of the year, has officially retired in Germany.

But, a man of boundless energy, he appears to have some years left in him yet in a job he clearly relishes.

“These iconic hotels, people want to see the general manager, to share the stories of the place, they want the staff to stay in place, so they can remember them and know their

preferences,” he explains.

“It is part of my job, people want to see you, we are like actors – when I come to work it is like a theatre play, the hotel is my stage.

In the evening, when I go home, the curtain closes, and the play is over.”

With a man as compelling as Radtke in place, there are likely to be a few more dramatic scenes at the palace before this show comes to a close.

Kempinski Istanbul offers the glamour of a genuine Ottoman palace in a city where east meets west, Europe meets Asia and history meets the contemporary.

Find out more on the official website at www. kempinski.com.

MORE INFORMATION

Located on the shores of the magnificent Bosporus, facing the Asian continent and overlooking the ancient city, Çırağan Palace

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EUROPCAR PUTS OATH IN DRIVING SEAT TO RUN UK BRAND CAMPAIGN Europcar is investing in a new campaign to promote its leisure brand in the UK

Working with Oath - which owns media brands such as HuffPost, Yahoo and Tumblr - the campaign will focus on lifestyle stories, which speak to our customers’ experiences.

These will be told through a lively video as well as dynamic branded editorial content on HuffPost UK.

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The campaign is live now until December 23rd.

‘Siblings Reunited’, created

by Oath’s branded content unit RYOT Studio, is live on HuffPost UK as well as being distributed to third party premium publishers via Oath Ad Platforms’ video distribution network. The

video features two sisters reminiscing about family getaways while heading away on a weekend trip, the destination of which is a mystery to one of the pair until arrival (cue a lot of excited laughter.) The benefits of Europcar’s services, from delivery and collection to driving

a car fitted with the latest tech, will be highlighted throughout.

Jose Blanco, sales and marketing director, Europcar Mobility Group in the UK, said: “We are excited to be launching our new brand campaign with Oath.

The campaign is very

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four major brands being: Europcar, the European leader in vehicles rental services, Goldcar, the most important low-cost car rental company in Europe, InterRent, a ‘mid-tier’ brand focused on leisure and Ubeeqo, one of the European leaders in car sharing for both businesses and end-customers market.

relatable to consumers and showcases Europcar’s customer-centric focus.

We’re confident that the campaign will help to raise Europcar UK’s brand awareness and improve visibility of its services for leisure customers.”

Europcar Mobility Group is a major player in mobility markets and listed on Euronext Paris.

of its employees and this commitment fuels the continuous development of new services.

Anna Watkins, UK managing director, Oath, said: “Our team has worked with Europcar to produce great branded content in their authentic voice, built on our insights and uses our

unique combination of art and science to reach millions of consumers across Oath’s trusted media brands and premium publishing partners.”

MORE INFORMATION

Europcar Mobility Group operates through multi brands meeting every customer specific needs. Its

Europcar Mobility Group delivers its mobility solutions worldwide solutions through an extensive network in 133 countries (including 16 wholly owned subsidiaries in Europe, two in Australia and New Zealand, franchises and partners).

Further details can be found at www.europcar-mobility-group.com or head over to Stands CR350 of TP280 here at World Travel Market 2018.

The mission of Europcar Mobility Group is to be the preferred mobility service company by offering alternative attractive solutions to vehicle ownership, with a wide range of mobility-related services: cars rental, vans and trucks rental, chauffeur services, car sharing, scooter sharing and peer-to-peer car sharing.

Customers’ satisfaction is at the heart of the group’s mission and all

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BREAKING TRAVEL NEWS INVESTIGATES:

INTERCONTINENTAL PHU QUOC LONG BEACH RESORT Thoughtfully designed for families, couples and individuals alike, InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort has recently joined the hospitality scene in Vietnam. Here Breaking Travel News takes a tour

Located on the pristine Phu Quoc Island, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve off the southwest coast of the country, InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort recently became the 1,000th InterContinental Hotels Group property to open within the Europe, Middle East, Asia and Africa region. One of the most captivating features of the resort is its position on Long Beach, one of Vietnam’s most stunning white-sand beaches, enjoying glorious sunset views. It is an easy

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15-minute drive from Phu Quoc International Airport, and only 20 minutes from the cultural attractions of Duong Dong town.

Thoughtfully designed for families, couples and individuals alike, as well as both leisure travellers and meeting delegates, InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort features an exclusive beachfront, six restaurants and bars, 459 luxuriously appointed rooms, suites, and villas, as well as stateof-the-art meeting facili-

ties. As the same time, it seamlessly combines the sophisticated and cosmopolitan essence of the InterContinental heritage with the heartfelt rustic charm of the resort’s surrounding local area and culture. Resort guests are offered exclusive access to a secluded stretch of Long Beach, the perfect location to swim in shimmering waters, soak up the sun, and experience ocean sunsets.

In each of the elegant rooms, suites, and villas,

the deep bathtubs, walk-in rain showers, floor-toceiling windows and spacious balconies ensure a luxurious and inviting space for the ultimate escape in comfort and relaxation. When it comes to dining, InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort offers a tempting array of contemporary and stylish experiences, including the highest bar in Phu Quoc, INK 360, boasting breath-taking panoramic ocean and mountain views. Created by award-winning Australian designer Ashley Sutton, the bar is the perfect venue for a welcome toast or celebratory drinks, where guests can sip on a signature cocktail while watching a magnificent sunset and nibbling on tapas-style seafood, caviar and oysters.

Additional dining venues include Lava, a fine-dining seafood and specialty imported meats restaurant using the freshest

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produce cooked on charcoal grills and lava stone enhanced with a selection of locally produced aromatic peppers such as black, white, red and Tay Giang. Sora & Umi serves authentic Japanese and Vietnamese cuisine with the focus on the restaurant’s numerous live cooking stations, including robatayaki, teppanyaki and sushi. By the pool, Ombra serves home-made Italian cuisine and gelato alongside fresh juices and healthy bites.

namese Delicacies, Mediterranean and Healthy.

Guests can indulge in serene spa treatments at the award winning Harnn Heritage Spa, designed by Vietnamese architect Vo Trong Nghia, and inspired

by traditional Asian medicine and naturopathy. In addition to full-body wellness and relaxation treatments, the resort offers holistic and adventurous activities including Yoga, Pilates, and water sports, as well as bespoke cultur-

al experiences including local produce tours to the island’s renowned pepper and pearl farms, hiking in nature, and night markets.

The resort’s Conference Centre features over 2,000 sqm of indoor event ven-

Beachfront restaurant Sea Shack serves comfort food, tapas, barbecue and grilled dishes such as the signature lobster roll, while beers and ciders are served in the Library area stocked with books about food, cocktails, Vietnamese culture, art, interior design and travel. Mercado is the place for coffee, tea and pastries, as well as themed picnic baskets including Traditional Viet-

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ues, offering privacy while being conveniently located in the main resort complex. The 870 sqm Grand Ballroom hosts up to 600 guests for banquets, a purpose-built auditorium seats 130 delegates, and multiple break out rooms all offer state of the art audio-visual equipment.

felt service, the resort promises to offer truly memorable experiences for all our guests. The island itself is a hidden gem, and the opening of InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort helps to put the destination on the map for discerning international travellers.”

“We are absolutely thrilled to bring the glamour of the InterContinental life

As if that were not enough, the InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort

to Phu Quoc,” said Piero Bellizzi, general manager of InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort.

“With exceptional facilities for families, couples and business travellers, underpinned by genuine, heart-

also recently announced that its Sky Tower, which offers some of the most spacious and luxurious accommodation in Phu Quoc, is now accepting reservations. The tower is a spectacular building and

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architectural presence in the skyline of the island’s popular Long Beach.

Located in the centre of the resort’s complex, it is home to one-, two- and three-bedroom suites, along with the striking INK 360 sky bar at its summit. The Sky Tower features some of the most premium accommodation on offer at InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort, making it ideal for

a combination of contemporary and locally inspired décor, making it ideal for those seeking luxury apartment living whilst in Phu Quoc.

luxury travellers – families and groups of friends.

levels of the Sky Tower, at an Emerald Collection Suite, the latter of which also offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and a complimentary spa treatment each day throughout the stay. A private haven of

Ranging from 64 to 179 square metres, each suite features one, two or three bedrooms, a living room, large balcony, kitchen, and

Guests can choose to stay in one of the Sky Tower’s Pearl Suites or experience the elevated service at Club InterContinental with a stay in one of the Club InterContinental Tower Suites, or at the highest

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unprecedented luxury for seasoned travellers, a stay at Club InterContinental accommodation includes access to the Club InterContinental Lounge with an exclusive swimming pool and daily breakfast, afternoon tea and evening cocktails and canapés.

The views from the Sky Tower are unparalleled, with gorgeous vistas spanning across verdant mountains or the sparkling ocean. Upon arriving at the exclusive reception and lounge, guests of the Sky Tower are greeted with a traditional welcome drink inspired by the local sim wine. All guests in the Sky Tower can enjoy

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exclusive access to the Pearl Lounge throughout their stay, a sanctuary of calm and an ideal venue to enjoy relaxed conversation, exquisite dining and breath-taking ocean views.

Phu Quoc Island, the largest island in Vietnam, is off the coast of Kien Giang Province in the south. Known as the Pearl or Emerald Island with pristine beaches, it is 574 square kilometres in size with a population of approximately 103,000 people.

WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS

InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort has been nominated for the ti-

tle of World’s Leading New Family Resort, World’s Leading New MICE Resort and World’s Leading New Luxury Resort by the World Travel Awards.

The winners will be revealed at the annual Grand Final, this year taking place at the Pátio da Galé in Lisbon, capital of Portugal, on December 1st.

a gateway to the glamour of the InterContinental Life. As a brand, it aims to embody global sophistication through superior, understated service and exceptional amenities.

For more information, visit the official website at www.intercontinental.com.

MORE INFORMATION

The InterContinental Hotels & Resorts brand makes travel alluring, with insights from over 70 years of experience. With 194 hotels and resorts around the world in more than 60 locations, each of its properties provides

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PORT ROYAL: JAMAICA’S NEWEST CRUISE PORT DEVELOPMENT Rich in history, folklore and bucket-list appeal, Port Royal is one of the iconic harbours in the Caribbean, because it has the only sunken city in the entire western Hemisphere

Located near Kingston, along the south coast of Jamaica, Port Royal was first used by the Taino people as a fishing camp.

After the invasion of the British in 1655, they realised its strategic importance and began to put in fortifications. During the 17th century it was the de facto capital of Jamaica as well as a convenient spot for buccaneers and pirates to discharge looted treasure.

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The town itself is a heritage site which offers a premier sightseeing experience and access to archaeological treasures.

Under the direction of the Jamaica National Heritage Trust, a sunken pirate ship has been identified and thousands of artefacts recovered, with plans for a new museum to showcase them. UNESCO designation is also pending for the Underwater City of Port Royal.

CRUISE DESTINATION

Port Royal is being positioned as Jamaica’s newest cruise port destination. It is designated as the fifth port of call under the Cruise Jamaica brand and the Port Authority of Jamaica is feverishly implementing development plans for the new cruise port town, as it expects to welcome cruise ships to the Port Royal in early 2019.

It is largely a coastal town situated in a fragile environment, which inspired the use of a floating pier technology called SeaWalk, which is also used at some ports in northern Europe that are designated as heritage sites and have similar environmental concerns. The SeaWalk is a three-segment pier capable of accommodating more than 2,000 passengers per hour disembarking from a single ship.

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It was selected because its unique design allows it to be installed without the need for dredging or the driving of piles. This means that the mangroves and archaeological assets in the sunken city, deposited underwater after the massive 1692 earthquake would be protected. Therefore, the SeaWalk technology is ideal, as it allows cruise vessels to berth in the

breakingtravelnews.com

300-year-old harbour without impacting its fragile environment, while it gives cruise passengers the opportunity to explore Port Royal and its environs.

The creation of this new cruise gateway to the ancient city of Port Royal and by extension Kingston should generate significant buzz within the sector as the Caribbean’s newest and most

sought-after attraction.

Similarly to other ports, where visitors travel to neighbouring towns on port tours, the same is being contemplated for Port Royal especially in light of its close proximity to Kingston, which can be accessed by car or water taxi within thirty minutes.

The scope of opportunities for cruise passengers is tremendous as Kingston offers a number of renowned attractions such as the National Gallery of Jamaica, Bob Marley Museum, Tuff Gong Studious, Emancipation Park, the Historic Devon House and tours of the Blue Mountain Coffee plantations.

River Falls in just an hour and a half, which is less time than it takes to drive between Ocho Rios and Montego Bay.

Additionally, Jamaica’s newly completed northsouth highway extends the opportunities beyond Kingston to Ocho Rios, as passengers arriving at Port Royal will be able to reach north coast attractions such as Dunn’s

Find out more at www. portjam.com or visit the Jamaica Tourist Board at Stand CA120 here at World Travel Market 2018.

Undoubtedly an enviable asset, with its unique offerings and incomparable mystique, Port Royal stands to distinguish itself among other cruise ports and resort towns in the region which will surely boost Jamaica’s stature as the preferred Caribbean and North-American cruise destination.

MORE INFORMATION

Port Royal is expecting to welcome its first guests in 2019.

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WINNERS OF WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS CARIBBEAN & NORTH AMERICA GALA CEREMONY 2018 REVEALED IN JAMAICA The finest travel brands in the Caribbean and North America have been unveiled at a star-studded gala ceremony in Jamaica

The who’s who of the travel industry gathered for the World Travel Awards Caribbean & North America Gala Ceremony 2018 at Sandals Montego Bay to find out who among them would be crowned best of the best.

Winners at the red-carpet reception included the

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paradise nation of Turks & Caicos, voted Caribbean’s Leading Beach Destination, while Jamaica’s captivating mix of beaches, culture, music and luxury hospitality was acknowledged with it picking up the title of Caribbean’s Leading Destination. Miami was also in celebratory mood as it was named

North America’s Leading Honeymoon Destination.

Hundreds of the leading travel industries figureheads from across the Caribbean and North America attended the ceremony at Sandals Montego Bay, the flagship resort of Sandals Resorts International.

Graham Cooke, founder, World Travel Awards, said: “Sandals Montego Bay has proved a magnificent host of what has been an amazing night of travel triumph, and a highlight of our 25th anniversary. We have had the privilege of recognising many of the leading hotels, airlines and hospitality providers

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from destinations across the Caribbean and North America and my congratulations to each of them.”

In the aviation sector, Caribbean Airlines picked up the award for Caribbean’s Leading Airline. Delta Air Lines also enjoyed a share of the honours, collecting North America’s Leading Airline and United States Leading Airline to The Caribbean. Meanwhile, Sangster International Airport, Jamaica, was heralded Caribbean’s Leading Airport.

Hospitality winners included GoldenEye (Caribbean’s Leading Boutique Resort), Round Hill Hotels & Villas (Caribbean’s Leading Villa Resort), Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa (Caribbean’s Leading New Resort), Meliá Braco Village (Caribbean’s Leading Luxury Resort), as well as Sandals Resorts International (Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Brand).

North American winners included JW Marriott Essex House New York (North America’s Leading

Hotel), Hilton Hotels & Resorts (North America’s Leading Hotel Brand) and InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown (North America’s Leading New Hotel).

The ceremony marked the fifth leg of the WTA Grand Tour 2018 – a series of regional events to acknowledge the world’s outstanding travel brands.

and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry. Today, the World Travel Awards brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of quality, with winners setting the benchmark to which all others aspire.

Find out more at www. worldtravelawards.com.

MORE INFORMATION

World Travel Awards was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward

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LATIN AMERICA’S LEADING TRAVEL BRANDS REVEALED IN GUAYAQUIL, ECUADOR The finest travel brands in South and Central America have been unveiled at the World Travel Awards Latin America Ceremony 2018 in Guayaquil, Ecuador America and my congratulations to each of them.”

A rapidly-emerging tourism hotspot, Guayaquil is best known for its gleaming riverside development, the Malecón 2000, which incorporates gardens, shopping centres, restaurants, a landmark museum, the first iMAX theatre in South America, and several of the city’s finest monuments.

Winners at the red-carpet gala evening included the ancient Incan city of Quito, which fended off stiff competition to be named South America’s Leading Destination. Meanwhile, Mazatlán, Mexico, with its tropical neoclassical architecture and paradise beach, was named Mexico & Central America’s Leading Destination.

Hundreds of the leading figures of South and Central’s travel and tourism industries attended the

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red-carpet ceremony, which was staged at Guayaquil’s historic Palacio de Cristal.

Graham Cooke, founder, World Travel Awards, said: “Guayaquil has proved an incredible host of what has been an amazing night of travel triumph, and a highlight of our 25th anniversary. We have had the privilege of recognising many of the leading hotels, airlines and hospitality providers from destinations across Latin

In the aviation sector, Avianca picked up the award for South America’s Leading Airline Brand and Aeromexico was voted Mexico & Central America’s Leading Airline Brand.

Delta Air Lines proved a multiple winner, collecting United States’ Leading Airline to South America, United States’ Leading Airline to Central America and United States’ Leading Airline to Mexico. Meanwhile Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport was heralded South Amer-

ica’s Leading Airport.

Hospitality winners included Swissotel Quito (South America’s Leading Hotel and South America’s Leading Conference Hotel); Wyndham Guayaquil (South America’s Leading City Hotel) and Mashpi Lodge, Ecuador (South America’s Leading Eco-Lodge).

Destination winners included Peru (South America’s Leading Culinary Destination and South America’s Leading Cultural Destination); Bolivia (South America’s Leading Green Destination); Guayaquil (South America’s Leading Business Travel Destination and South America’s Leading Festival & Event Destination); Cartagena de Indias, Colombia (South America’s Leading Honeymoon Destination); Chile (South America’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination) and Atacama Desert, Chile (South

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America’s Most Romantic Destination).

A special award for Latin America’s Travel Personality was presented to

Gloria Gallardo Zavala, president of the Municipal and Public Tourism Company, Civic Promotion and International Relations of Guayaquil, for her

outstanding contribution to Guayaquil’s tourism industry and her role in transforming the city into the most visited tourism destination in Ecuador.

The evening marked the fourth leg of the WTA Grand Tour 2018 – a series of regional events to acknowledge the world’s outstanding travel brands.

MORE INFORMATION

World Travel Awards was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry. Today, the World Travel Awards brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of quality, with winners setting the benchmark to which all others aspire.

Find out more at www. worldtravelawards.com.

breakingtravelnews.com

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BREAKING TRAVEL NEWS INTERVIEW:

ANDREW O’BRIAN, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, QUIPORT Following World Travel Awards’ successful return to Ecuador for the Latin America Gala Ceremony 2018, Quiport chief executive Andrew O’Brian speaks to Breaking Travel News about the location’s victory at the event and the role the airport has played in the development of tourism in the city

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INTERVIEW Breaking Travel News: Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito, capital of Ecuador, has been recognised by the World Travel Awards as South America’s Leading Airport. How does it feel to have won?

Andrew O’Brian: To be honest it causes a range of feelings. On one hand, we are very proud that our work has received the most important award in the travel industry, but on the other hand we know that this brings great responsibility to evolve and innovate. Our activity is very dynamic and constantly changing so we cannot be complacent.

It is very important to keep growing and provide new and improved services to our passengers.

In fact, this is the vision given by our shareholders (Odinsa from Colombia, Grupo CCR from Brazil and Houston Airport System Development Corporation from USA). This is the fifth year the airport has taken the prestigious honour.

BTN: As the awards are voted for by members of the public and the travel trade, are they useful in your marketing and advertising for the airport?

AB: Absolutely. The exposure we get during and after the awards ceremony is invaluable. Airlines, our strategic partners in the industry, ask themselves what is happening at Quito Airport and this destina-

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tion which are consistently ranked as leaders in South America? This opens a lot of doors and generates interest.

Our airport has seen sustained growth in connectivity and an increase in passenger traffic; there is no doubt that the fact that we have won this award year after year has been one of the keys to this impressive performance.

BTN: Mariscal Sucre Airport expanded its international VIP lounge lately. How has that been received by guests? Are there any further developments planned?

AB: We can proudly say that Mariscal Sucre Airport has the best International VIP Lounge in Latin America. I say this based on the responses to passenger satisfaction surveys that we carry out from time to time, social media feedback and ratings given by passengers in surveys by airlines such as KLM. The International VIP Lounge was designed by Adriana Hoyos Design Studio, one of the most prestigious and well-known interior designers in the region, which allowed us to create an aesthetic and functional features to meet all the needs of our passengers who visit the lounge.

We are working with Adriana Hoyos Design Studio to renew the image of the Domestic VIP lounge and the Public Departures Hall at the airport.

BTN: Airports Council International showcased its Airport Excellence Programme in Quito. What can you tell us about that?

BTN: Gol Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes recently became the latest carrier to add. What other new routes are on the horizon?

AB: Being a greenfield airport, from the start of the project we have cared about the potential environmental impacts and we have an environmental development plan to mitigate the impacts and protect native species in the area. Under the plan, our most important measures include the wastewater treatment plant, waste management plan and the carbon footprint reduction program via our participation in the ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation program, supported by ICAO and the World Bank.

AB: Since the airport started operating in 2013 we have seen a significant increase in connectivity, a trend which has continued. Thanks to the highly professional work of our Route Development team, together with local and national authorities’ efforts to promote tourism, we are showing the world what Quito and Ecuador have to offer.

For this reason, when ACI proposed the APEX in Environment initiative, we offered to host the launch at our airport as we believe that we have a lot to offer, but we also wish to learn more about the best practices that are implemented at other airports.

We are very proud to be pioneers of APEX in Environment.

The results are very promising.

In addition to the start of operations by GOL on December 27th, with three weekly flights between Sao Paulo–Quito, Joon by Air France has announced the launch of direct flights between Paris–Quito as of May 2019, with three weekly flights served by Airbus 340-300 with a capacity of 270 seats.

MORE INFORMATION

Corporación Quiport is the concessionaire of Mariscal Sucre International Airport.

Find out more at www. quiport.com/en.

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BREAKING TRAVEL NEWS INVESTIGATES:

ROME CAVALIERI, A WALDORF ASTORIA RESORT Nestled in a lush 15-acre private Mediterranean park on the outskirts of the city, Rome Cavalieri is considered the World’s Leading Luxury City Resort by voters at the World Travel Awards. Here Breaking Travel News editor Chris O’Toole visits to take a tour of the exquisite property

Hidden like a gilded secret in the forest, the Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, is <i>the</i> place to catch a glimpse of Italian high society. Arriving for a two-night stay, the hotel is in full flow. An elegant wedding sees dozens of sharp, black-suited men fill the lobby in an

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exhibition of Italian style, while the bride ghosts past in a plume of exquisite perfume. A firework display later in the evening will bookend the celebration, with all present invited to join the party in the lush 15-acre private Mediterranean park that surrounds the property.

As guests of the exclusive Imperial Club we are whisked to one side for a private check-in, with sparkling wine helping to melt away memories of the journey. Before heading upstairs there is just a moment to take in the lobby, one of the most attractive areas of the Rome Cavalieri. Home to some of the private collection of paintings, tapestries, period furniture, statues and artefacts that are a theme of the property, the space has the feel of a lively museum. To one side, three of Giovanni Battista Tiepolo’s most important masterpieces take pride of place, while there are countless other objects from the private collection of the hotel’s owners.

Upstairs, in the top end suites, walls are decorated with unique pieces of artwork and furnishings, including original Karl Lagerfeld sofas, rare 18th century antiques, and

Andy Warhol and Robert Indiana paintings. Even the landings on each floor are home to exquisite antique clocks – though each tells a different time – while visitors are also urged to keep their eyes peeled for costumes worn by legendary ballet dancer, Rudolf Nureyev.

Shown to our room, it is the views over the city that are the real star here.

Perched atop Monte Mario, Rome Cavalieri is at once part of the Italian capital and, at the same time, completely aloof.

Guests can use the hotel as a retreat in its own right, spending days in splendid seclusion, or as a base to explore one of the most important historic cities in Europe.

At 50 m², our Imperial room is spacious, with royal blue carpeting, feather-soft bed, and a comfortable seating area. Colour coordinated flowers sit

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on the desk while, in an unusual flourish, a large, mirrored sound-proof door swings shut to seal the room completely from the outside world. A special mention, too, for the Salvatore Ferragamo toiletries – including lip balm, under-eye cream, and a facial mist – branded by my travelling companion as the best she has ever seen. Outside there is a large balcony with views over Rome and the resort, while below a pride of male lion statues stalks through the grass and parakeets dance through the surrounding trees.

RENOVATIONS

Rome Cavalieri last year completed renovations to its Petronius suite, making it one of the most luxurious in Rome. However, the historic nature of the property – which was originally planned as a hospital before opening as a hotel in 1963 – means the renovations could not alter too much.

As general manager Alessandro Cabella told Breaking Travel News: “The hotel is well known for housing the largest private European art collection, with more than 1,000 pieces of art displayed around the property. We are unique for this and it does not allow us to change the character of the property too much.

We want to leverage this unique attribute, to deliver

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a different experience to any other hotel in Rome.”

Rome Cavalieri also recently completed renovations of the exclusive Imperial Club. The newly decorated space boasts a fresh look with brand new décor including new carpeting, curtains and furniture.

A refurbished buffet corner presents food and beverage displays aligned to monthly themes, offering guests a range of delightful dishes and cocktails throughout the day, from breakfast and light afternoon snacks to early evening hors d’oeuvres and after dinner drinks.

Guests can also indulge in an artistically lavish afternoon tea, featuring an Imperial tea tasting, cakes and homemade gelato, and the extraordinary sight of celebrated ballet dancer Rudolf Nureyev’s bejewelled costumes on private display. A private balcony provides a unique vantage point above Rome, allowing guests to soak up breath-taking city views as they enjoy the amenities.

During our time there, the lounge offered a welcoming family atmosphere, a world away from the stuffy club feel that can dominate these environments.

FINE DINING

Of course, a property of this nature would not be complete without a range

of fine-dining options. On the top floor, La Pergola Restaurant & Bar means Rome Cavalieri is able to boast it is the only hotel in Italy to offer a Michelin-rated three-star restaurant. Under the direction of celebrated chef Heinz Beck, the restaurant is home to a €260 tasting menu - including rabbit tortellini, duck foie gras powder and oysters – served against panoramic views of the city.

Downstairs, L’Uliveto sits by the outdoor pool. Hotel restaurants are notoriously quiet, but during our visit the place was filled with the sounds of laughing families, courting couples and celebrating groups.

The location serves a full menu of Mediterranean and international dishes, while a live piano player creates an exuberant mood – a highlight of any visit.

On the lower levels of the hotel, the Cavalieri Grand Spa Club is seen as the most luxurious facility of its kind in Rome. Spread over 2,500m² of pampering, relaxation and wellness space, it offers ten treatment rooms.

Guests can indulge in a wide range of spa services, from La Prairie facials to Ayurvedic massages, as well as two saunas, a whirlpool and an amethyst Turkish bath. There are three outdoor swimming pools, as well as a glass-

domed indoor pool, featuring a cascading waterfall, hydro-massage pool, Japanese stone walk and an impressive wood-burning fireplace.

“Here you can relax like an emperor,” my guide says.

A personal favourite was the 3.5-metre-deep Olympic-sized outdoor pool, where guests can relax in the dazzling sunshine.

Here one can taste La Dolce Vita, with Rome Cavalieri home the best the Eternal City can offer.

MORE INFORMATION

Rome Cavalieri is considered the World’s Leading Luxury City Resort by voters at the World Travel Awards. The property is part of the Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts portfolio, a collection of nearly 30 iconic properties that create a unique sense of place with a relentless commitment to personal service and culinary expertise in landmark locations around the world.

Unified by their inspirational environments and True Waldorf Service, Waldorf Astoria hotels deliver graceful service from the moment a guest books through checkout. Waldorf Astoria is a part of Hilton, a leading global hospitality company.

Find out more at www. hilton.com.

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Tel. +34 968 17 5577 reservas@lamangaclub.com lamangaclub.com

golf at La Manga club

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f you love golf and dream of playing on beautiful, top quality courses in an ideal, year-round climate, La Manga Club, in Murcia, Spain is the perfect golf destination.

With a choice of three superb, 18-hole championship courses, each with its own unique style and terrain, a Par 47 course and first-rate practice facilities, there is something to challenge you, whatever your age and whatever your level.

If you want to learn how to play golf or improve your skills, La Manga Club is just the right place as well.

Our golf academy provides group and private tuition of the highest standards for all levels, from complete beginners to the most experienced players, as well as special junior golf academy courses for children

and teens.

Over its 40 years of history, the resort has hosted many top-level international golf tournaments and tour qualifying schools including five Spanish Opens; the European Ladies Team Championship; Spanish PGA, Seniors’, Ladies’ and Junior Championships; Ladies European Tour Q-School; and the World Corporate Golf Challenge, as well as countless corporate, celebrity and charity golf events.

Whether you are fine-tuning your technique, organizing a golf clinic or simply coming to enjoy your favorite sport, La Manga Club offers a truly diverse and unique golfing experience. Look no further for your next golf holiday, golfing break or corporate golf event!

the la manga club courses Each of La Manga Club’s three 18-hole championship courses has been designed to offer you a unique challenge, playing over different terrain in varied but always beautiful and tranquil surroundings, all no more than a “short putt” from your accommodation. And if you want to work on your short game, the picturesque 18-hole Par 47 course is just the place.

south Course

18 holes, par 73 Designer: Robert D. Putman / Arnold Palmer

Originally designed by Robert Putman in 1971 and subsequently remodelled in 1992 by Arnold Palmer, La Manga Club's South Course was completely refurbished in 2004.

The Championship course at La Manga Club, the South, is probably one of the fairest tests of golf one can find. At 6,499 metres from the White Tees, whilst being accepted as a top-calibre championship course, also provides a thorough test both for the scratch player and right across the handicap range.

Located in the centre of the valley, with wide palm-fringed fairways and water hazards that come into play on 15 of the 18 holes, the South Course holds few hidden dangers.

north Course

18 holes, par 71 Designer: Robert D. Putman

An undulating championship course sprawling between palm trees, lakes and 'barrancas'. These natural storm gullies feature on all three golf courses and add an extra dimension to the game.

Slightly shorter than the South, with tighter fairways and larger greens, the North Course offers a different, yet no less challenging, round of golf. A feature of the greens, all built to USGA specification, is the amount of movement incorporated in them, none more so than the short Par 3, 2nd, which has three distinct plateaux - a great test of putting. Relying on precision rather than length, an added challenge is provided by the wide variety of water hazards and 'barrancas' that snake their way through the course.

west Course

18 holes, par 72 Designer: Dave Thomas

Set amid serene pine woodlands, the West Course's design closely follows the natural contours of the undulating land. Its distinct character makes it a good alternative to the other, more classical championship courses.

It is a deceiving course, with frequent changes in elevation with which to contend. The tight front nine demands accurate driving to avoid the 'barrancas' (natural storm gullies) while the back nine, up amongst the hills, is more open but nonetheless challenging.

La Manga Club. 30389, Cartagena - Murcia â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Spain. www.lamangaclub.com

L

a Manga Club, the award winning luxury sports and leisure resort, is located in Murcia, Spain, on the sunny south-eastern Costa Cálida, or “warm coast”, under three hours’ flight from most cities in Europe to the nearby Alicante and Murcia San Javier airports.

The warm, sunny weather of this Mediterranean resort makes it ideal for sports, luxury golf breaks, tennis holidays, short breaks and family holidays at any time of year.

You’ll find luxury five-star facilities and lots of different leisure options, including golf, tennis, swimming, fitness, squash, paddle tennis, cricket, football, rugby, pitch & putt, crazy golf, road and mountain biking, jogging and walking routes.

You could also relax in our luxury Wellness Centre or on the beach, explore the beautiful unspoilt countryside or soak up the local culture, architecture, fiestas, festivals and history in the nearby cities of Cartagena and Murcia, both of which also offer excellent shopping.

La Manga Club offers you a wide choice of deluxe accommodation to suit your needs: The luxury 5 star Hotel La Manga Club Príncipe Felipe is located right next to two of the resort’s three 18-hole championship golf courses. The superbly comfortable 4-star serviced Panoramic Rooms or self-catering, townhouses and apartments at Las Lomas Village, very close to the Wellness Centre, are specially designed to offer you the convenience of self-catering or a convivial atmosphere for sports groups or groups of friends or family. Or you could choose to rent a holiday villa or apartment in one of the resort’s village-style communities.

Complemented by world-class sports facilities, including 3 golf courses, 28 tennis courts and 8 professional football pitches, our conference and meetings facilities make La Manga Club the perfect venue for conferences, incentives, corporate events and sports training camps.

Afterwards, La Manga Club offers a wide range of top quality cuisine in its many restaurants – the choice includes Spanish, Mediterranean, Asian, Indian, tapas and seafood restaurants amongst others – or enjoy the nightlife in the bars on resort.

Near La Manga Club, the Mediterranean and Mar Menor Sea are perfect for water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, parasailing, kite surfing, water skiing and more. The nearby marine reserve is one of the best scuba diving sites in Spain. Nature lovers are sure to enjoy the neighbouring Calblanque Natural Park with its beautiful scenery, mountains, beaches, dunes and wide variety of plants, wildlife and birds – a real treat for ornithology enthusiasts.

La Manga Club also provides you the best environment for spending time together as a family, taking part in the many events and activities, making new friends at our junior academies, or enjoying some quality time with just the two of you while your children are having fun at the Junior Club.

You will also find an unparalleled setting for the most special occasions and celebrations: bespoke weddings, renewals of vows, anniversaries or birthdays.

La Manga Club

La Manga Club. 30389, Cartagena - Murcia â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Spain. www.lamangaclub.com

WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS HONOURS LEADERS IN MIDDLE EASTERN TOURISM IN RAS AL KHAIMAH Ras al Khaimah has welcomed the World Travel Awards Middle East Gala Ceremony for the first time, with the best of regional hospitality recognised at the event

The ceremony marked the start of the WTA Grand Tour 2018. The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert, was among the big winners, taking the title of Middle East’s Leading Luxury Desert Resort. Voters also honoured Ras al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, which was recognised as

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the Middle East’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination. On a special night for the northern most emirate, the newly opened ToroVerde zipline was presented with the title of Middle East’s Leading Adventure Tourist Attraction.

As World Travel Awards

celebrates its silver jubilee, the organisation gave the prestigious title of Middle East’s Leading Travel Personality to Nasser Al Nowais, chairman of the board of directors, Rotana Hotel Management Corporation.

The event took place at the Waldorf Astoria Ras

al Khaimah, which was itself revealed as Ras Al Khaimah’s Leading Resort.

World Travel Awards founder, Graham Cooke, said: “What an evening it has been here in Ras al Khaimah at the Waldorf Astoria. We have had the privilege to recognise many of the best hotels,

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airlines and hospitality providers from many destinations across the Middle East and my sincere congratulations to each of them.”

He added: “Our winners this evening will now move forward to the Grand Final 2018, which is this year taking place in Lisbon, capital of Portugal, in December.”

In the hospitality sector, The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah, took the title of Middle East’s Leading Luxury Villa Resort. In aviation, Oman Air was honoured with trophies for both Middle East’s Leading Airline - Business Class: and Middle East’s Leading Airline - Economy Class.

Dubai-based Emirates took the title of Middle East’s Leading Airline.

United Arab Emirates flag-carrier Etihad Airways took the titles of Middle

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East’s Leading Airline Website and Middle East’s Leading Airline Rewards Programme for Etihad Guest.

A natural complement to the bright lights and skyscrapers of Dubai just 45 minutes’ drive away, Ras al Khaimah offers authentic and nature-based adventure and culture, with year-round sunshine, spectacular landscapes, 64 kilometres of sandy beaches, enticing desert adventures, adventure sports activities in the mountains and first-class places to stay.

wide. Choosing Ras Al Khaimah to be the host of this event is testimony of our growing appeal within the MICE sector and we look forward to the guests experiencing our authentic Arabian hospitality and diverse tourism offer.”

World Travel Awards was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry. Today, the World Travel Awards brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of quality, with winners setting the benchmark to which all others aspire.

Find out more at www. worldtravelawards.com.

Haitham Mattar, chief executive, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: “It has been a great honour to welcome the prestigious World Travel Awards Gala Ceremony for the first time to Ras Al Khaimah, an event that brings together travel industry leaders world-

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EUROPE’S FINEST TRAVEL BRANDS REVEALED AT WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS IN ATHENS

Europe’s finest travel brands have been unveiled at the World Travel Awards Europe Gala Ceremony 2018 in Athens, Greece

Winners at the red-carpet gala evening included Hilton Hotels & Resorts (winner of Europe’s Leading Hotel Brand), Madrid (Europe’s Leading Meetings & Convention Destination), Zurich Airport (Europe’s Leading Airport) and Norwegian Cruise Line (Europe’s Leading Cruise Line). Portugal beat off stiff competition to be named Europe’s Leading Destination, while Turismo

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de Portugal was voted Europe’s Leading Tourist Board. Meanwhile the intriguing beauty of Madeira was acknowledged as it was named Europe’s Leading Island Destination.

Hundreds of the leading figures of Europe’s travel and tourism industry attended the ceremony, which was staged at the historic Zappeion Megaron Hall.

Graham Cooke, founder, World Travel Awards, said: “What an evening it has been here in the incredible city of Athens, Greece. We have had the privilege of recognising many of the leading hotels, airlines and hospitality providers from destinations across Europe and my congratulations to each of them.”

He added: “It has been an honour to partner with Ho-

telBrain, under the auspices of the Greek Ministry of Tourism, City of Athens and Greek National Tourism Organisation – and we thank everyone here in Athens for their support in bringing World Travel Awards to their amazing city.”

In the aviation sector, Aeroflot – Russian Airlines proved a multiple winner, collecting awards for Europe’s Leading Airline

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Brand, Europe’s Leading Airline – Business Class and Europe’s Leading Airline to Asia, following a year in which the flag carrier conducted a significant fleet expansion programme as part of its global development pro-

gramme. TAP Air Portugal, which is also investing heavily in fleet and service upgrades, was named Europe’s Leading Airline to Africa. Lufthansa was voted Europe’s Leading Airline and Swiss International Air Lines named

Europe’s Leading Airline – Economy Class.

Greece’s resurgent tourism economy was recognised with the Greek National Tourism Organisation winning Europe’s Leading National Tourism

Strategy & Campaign, while Lesante Blu Exclusive Beach Resort was named Europe’s Leading New Resort. The Convention Centre Dublin – voted Europe’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre – was also celebrating, as was Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul. The former Ottoman Palace, now transformed into an opulent hotel, was presented with the trophy for Europe’s Leading Hotel.

MORE INFORMATION

World Travel Awards was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry. Today, the World Travel Awards brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of quality, with winners setting the benchmark to which all others aspire.

Find out more at www. worldtravelawards.com.

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ASIA AND AUSTRALASIA’S LEADING TRAVEL BRANDS REVEALED IN HONG KONG Asia and Australasia’s finest travel brands have been unveiled at the World Travel Awards Asia & Australasia Gala Ceremony 2018 in Hong Kong olis of Hong Kong. We have had the privilege of recognising many of the leading hotels, airlines and hospitality providers from destinations across Asia and Australasia and my congratulations to each of them.”

In the aviation sector, Hainan Airlines proved a multiple winner, collecting awards for Asia’s Leading Airline Brand, Asia’s Leading Airline – Business Class and Asia’s Leading Cabin Crew. Meanwhile Cathay Pacific was named Asia’s Leading Airline, Singapore Changi Airport collected Asia’s Leading Airport, and Air New Zealand was voted Australasia’s Leading Airline.

Winners at the red-carpet gala evening included Vietnam, which fended off stiff competition to be named Asia’s Leading Destination. Meanwhile Sydney, with its iconic cityscapes and beautiful beaches, was named

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Australasia’s Leading Destination.

Hundreds of the leading figures from Asia and Australasia’s travel and tourism industries attended the red-carpet ceremony, which was staged

at the newly-refurbished InterContinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong.

Graham Cooke, founder of World Travel Awards, said: “What an incredible evening it has been here in the enchanting metrop-

Hospitality winners included Korea’s Conrad Seoul, which picked up Asia’s Leading Lifestyle Hotel and Asia’s Leading Luxury City Hotel. InterContinental Hotels & Resorts was also victorious, collecting

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Asia’s Leading Hotel Brand and Australasia’s Leading Hotel Brand. The Ascott won Asia’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand while Frasers Hospitality was voted Australasia’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand.

and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry. Today, the World Travel Awards brand is recognised

globally as the ultimate hallmark of quality, with winners setting the benchmark to which all others aspire.

Find out more at www. worldtravelawards.com.

Vietravel was recognised by voters as Asia’s Leading Tour Operator for the third consecutive year, while Abercrombie & Kent China was named Asia’s Leading Travel Agency.

The evening marked the third leg of the WTA Grand Tour 2018 – a series of regional events to acknowledge the world’s outstanding travel brands.

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World Travel Awards was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward

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WINNERS OF WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN GALA CEREMONY 2018 REVEALED The finest travel brands in Africa and the Indian Ocean have been unveiled at a star-studded gala ceremony in Durban, South Africa The elite of the travel industry assembled for the World Travel Awards Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2018 at the Durban International Convention Centre to find out who amongst them would be crowned best of the best.

Winners at the red-carpet reception included South Africa, voted Africa’s Leading Destination.

Durban, which is enjoying a renaissance thanks to a series of landmark development projects, was named Africa’s Leading City Destination, while Cape Town’s captivating mix of cultures, cuisines and landscapes was acknowledged as it picked up Africa’s Leading Festival & Event Destination.

In the Indian Ocean categories, Mauritius cement-

ed its reputation as the definitive romantic island by being named Indian Ocean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination, while the paradise archipelago of the Maldives was heralded Indian Ocean’s Leading Destination.

Hundreds of the leading travel industries figureheads from across Africa and the Indian Ocean attended the ceremony

at the Durban ICC, the state-of-the-art events and entertainment venue, which was opened by the late Nelson Mandela in 1997.

Graham Cooke, founder of World Travel Awards, said: “The Durban ICC has reinforced its standing as a world-class entertainment venue on what has been a magnificent evening of travel industry triumph, as well as a highlight of our 25th anniversary. We have had the privilege of recognising the leading hotels, airlines and hospitality providers from across Africa and the Indian Ocean and my congratulations to each of them.”

In the aviation sector, Ethiopian Airlines was voted Africa’s Leading Airline, while Kenya Airlines picked up Africa’s Leading Airline – Business Class and Africa’s Leading Airline – Economy Class.

Africa’s Leading Airport went to Cape Town International Airport. Mean-

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while in the Indian Ocean, Air Mauritius claimed a lion’s share of the honours, winning Indian Ocean’s Leading Airline, Indian Ocean’s Leading Airline – Business Class, Indian Ocean’s Leading Airline Brand, and Indian Ocean’s Airport Lounge (The Amédée Maingard Lounge @ Mauritius International Airport).

Hospitality winners included Hilton Hotels & Resorts (Africa’s Leading Hotel Brand), Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa (Africa’s Leading Boutique Hotel), Thanda Island, Tanzania (Africa’s Leading Luxury Island), Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort (Africa’s Leading New Resort), Hilton Durban (South Africa’s Leading Business Hotel), Legend Golf Resort & Spa, South Africa (Africa’s Leading Sports Resort), and Transcorp Hilton Abuja (Africa’s Leading Business Hotel).

Other highlights included awards for South Africa

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Tourism (Africa’s Leading Tourist Board), Durban ICC (Africa’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre), Durban (Africa’s Leading Meetings & Conference Destination) and Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (Indian Ocean’s Leading Tourist Board).

The ceremony marked the sixth leg of the WTA Grand Tour 2018 – a series of regional events to acknowledge the world’s outstanding travel brands.

MORE INFORMATION

World Travel Awards was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry. Today, the World Travel Awards brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of quality, with winners setting the benchmark to which all others aspire.

Find out more at www. worldtravelawards.com.

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CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF TRAVEL EXCELLENCE

GRAND FINAL GALA CEREMONY Saturday 1st December 2018 Pátio da Galé, Lisbon, Portugal

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wtravelawards

worldtravelawards

The latest spa tourism news on the most significant developments in the wellness and spa tourism industry.

Find stunning photos, videos and interactive discussions with our group members.

www.spatravelnews.com

‘‘ Our reward.

Tom & Anna

Free rentals, discount vouchers and more rewards for your loyalty.

More information on www.europcar.com/privilege

‘‘

The chance to escape for the weekend.