2021 January edition

MICE & TOURISM around the World e-Magazine the global monthly online magazine since 1997

vol. 24, issue 1, January 2021

The Old Gates of London Tourism Sector Collapse due to ‘Pandemic’ Yaprak Gurdal’s "OVERSEAS LONELINESS" Air Travel in 2021and Beyond London’s Secret, Charterhouse MEETEX 2021, Zagreb, Croatia

Ms.Yaprak Gurdal

MICE & TOURISM around the World e-Magazine Volume 24, Issue 1, January 2021 edition – Online since 1997

Contents 7-10 The Old Gates of London 12 Tourism Sector Collapse Due To Pandemic

13 Thailand’s special tourist visa 14 London hotel openings in 2021 16-17 From blogging to publishing, now comes her first book: Yaprak Gurdal’s immigration story to Canada.

"OVERSEAS LONELINESS" 20 Air Travel in 2021 and Beyond 21 Chinese cabin crew advised to Wear…

23 Zoox the Self-Driving Robotaxi 24 The Revival of Supersonic Travel 26-29 London’s Secret, Charterhouse

31 MEETEX 2021, Zagreb, Croatia

33 Real In-Person Meetings Gradually Return if a Little Different!

35 Pushing to need and potential for Events 38-40 London’s Shopping Arcades

Message from

Caroline-Artemis Welcome to 2021! A New Year! Let’s hope and pray it will be better, healthier and more prosperous than 2020!

This is the LONDON edition of MICE & TOURISM around the World e-Magazine Not only is it the start of a New Year but also a new beginning for the UK and its capital city and its citizens.

As we embrace our new global status as a sovereign nation after nearly 50 years as part of the European Union, I believe that as we all continue to adapt to our new normal way of life in this Covid-world, that new opportunities and inspirations will be discovered, developed and shared with our close neighbours and the rest of the world, like never before and tog ether we will make the our home planet a better place for us all.

LONDON

In this edition we see the historical delights of the unique London Shopping Arcades, as well as the hidden secret that is Charterhouse and discover the original London Wall and its 7 gates into the Roman city!

We are delighted to invite you on a journey with us into 2021 as we continue to be there for you to share news and views, developments and destination delights from all over the world.

Welcome to a new future‌ welcome to your future through MICE & TOURISM around the World e-Magazine .

Caroline-Artemis Laspas co-founder & editor MICE & TOURISM around the World e-Magazine

The Old Gates of London

by Caroline-Artemis Laspas

Church of St. Botolph, London

Once upon a time, the City of London was a fortified town with a wall and seven gates to access it. The city was established in 50BC by the Romans who called it Londinium.

The wall marked out the city boundary for two miles, and would remain almost unchanged for 1,700 years! It was one continuous structure and was one of the largest construction projects carried out in Roman Britain with the wall height reaching up to 10 meters.

The London Wall was the city’s defensive wall. Today it is the name of a road in the City of London running along part of the course of the old wall.

London Wall

A small part of the original 3rd century Wall can be seen today in Cooper's Row near Tower Hill tube station.

Today, nothing is left of the actual gates, but their names are synonymous to London. Most were destroyed as the city grew and roads were widened and created reaching out into the surrounding areas.

The city was a major Roman trading hub and sitting on the River Thames was a bustling port, until the Romans left in the 5th century.

The cities intricate network of roads, is unlike any city, including one long straight ‘roman road’, and that’s Edgware Road, which leads away from Marble Arch. It is the longest road in the UK! Although the city was originally quite small, it was sophisticated compared to other cities at the time and had an amphitheatre, temples and markets.

Amazingly some of these Roman ruins can still be seen.

The gates around the city were not necessarily that welcoming, often ‘decorated’ with the beheaded heads of traitors! They controlled who came in and out of the city and were used as a tax collection point too. They were also used at times as prisons, of which Newgate was known to be the most famous and feared!

London Tower Hill

Stretching from Tower Hill to Blackfriars the city wall with its 7 gates also had mini pedestrian gates called ‘posterns’. The gates were multi-storey buildings that had one or two archways through the middle for traffic to pass.

The Seven Gates of London were: Aldgate, Bishopsgate, Moorgate, Cripplegate, Aldersgate, Newgate and Ludgate.

Aldgate which means ‘east gate’ led out towards the UK’s Roman provincial capital, Colchester in the East of the country. Like the city’s other gates, it was fortified with portcullises and chains due to concerns about potential attacks by the French!

Aldgate

Bishopsgate would be located in the grounds of the church of St Botolph without Bishopsgate. The road through the gate would have led up towards the city of Cambridge.

Bishopsgate

Moorgate was the last gate to be built and takes its name from the Moorfields, an area of marshy land.

Cripplegate is thought to get its name from the Old English crypel-geat; a cripple was ‘one who can only creep’ or it was necessary to bend down to get under the original low arch. After the area was destroyed in WWII, the Barbican cultural and exhibition centre was built on the original site, but you can still see sections of the old city wall.

Cripplegate

Aldersgate is located close to the Museum of London. There is a plaque noting its location close to the ancient Lord Raglan pub. Parts of the Roman fort can still be seen on Noble Street.

www.bmlinternational.co.uk

Newgate was famously used as a prison but today the ‘Old Bailey’, the main criminal courts are located on the site.

Ludgate was the westernmost gate in London’s city wall. It led to the Romans' main burial site in what is now Fleet Street. It is very close to St. Paul's Cathedral, which is believed to be the site of a Roman temple of the goddess Diana (the Greek Goddess of Artemis).

During the Great Fire of London in 1666, almost all of the City of London inside the wall was destroyed. The seven gates saw many repairs and rebuilding over the years and stood until they were all demolished between 1760 and 1767. All that remains of the wall today are a few sections that can be seen in the grounds of the Museum of London, in the Barbican Estate and around Tower Hill.

So, next time you are in London, make sure you visit these historic pieces of Roman wall!

Europe, Americas, Asia & Africa

COSTA RICA CELEBRATE BICENTENNIAL INDEPENDENCE IN 2021

This year Costa Rica celebrates the bicentennial of its independence and plans are for a full celebration throughout the year and across the country (Covid permitting) with Independence Day on 29th October.

Alajuela, Heredia, San José, Cartago, Ujarraz, Barva or Bagaces are some of the towns preparing to host the Bicentennial celebrations. Official activities will be coordinated according to the evolution of the pandemic.

Throughout 2020 Costa Rica has followed a tourism strategy aimed at continuing to support small and medium-sized tourism companies with collaboration between the public and private sectors to improve the quality of the tourism product and respect health protocols.

Looking to 2021, Costa Rica continues to position itself as a ‘sustainable’ destination for the whole year, with multiple alternatives from well-being, adventure, bird watching, nature and rural tourism, culture, honeymoons, sun and beach, families, MICE or cruises. The opening of the air border is of key importance for the reactivation of employment through the tourist industry, one of the main engines of the national economy.

There are more than 300 Costa Rican companies with the ‘Safe Travels’ seal, granted by the World Travel and Tourism Council to the country, which guarantees compliance with health protocols for tourism activities.

TOURISM SECTOR COLLAPSE DUE TO PANDEMIC In the first 10 months of 2020 international arrivals fell by 72%, with travel restrictions, low consumer confidence and a global fight to contain the COVID-19 virus. Combined, this contributed to the worst year on record in the history of tourism.

Data from UNWTO confirms that destinations welcomed 900 million fewer international tourists between January and October, compared to the same period in 2019. This equates to a loss of UK£688 billion in export revenues from international tourism, over 10 times the loss seen in 2009 due to impact of the global economic crisis.

Even with the rollout of vaccines helping to boost traveller confidence, there is still a long road to recovery. Borders need to be safely opened while tourism jobs and businesses need supporting.

UNWTO figures confirm that international arrivals declined by 70-75% for the whole of 2020. This is the level global tourism was at 30 years ago, with 1 billion fewer arrivals and a loss of some UK£810 billion in international tourism receipts. This has resulted in an economic loss of UK£1.472 trillion in world GDP. Asia and the Pacific saw an 82% decrease in arrivals in the first 10 months of 2020. The Middle East recorded a 73% decline, while Africa saw a 69% drop. International arrivals in both Europe and the Americas declined by 68%.

www.bmlinternational.co.uk

SAUDI ARABIA’S TOURISM AUTHORITY NEW 'ARABIAN WINTER' CAMPAIGN

The Saudi Arabia Tourism Authority has launched a winter campaign called the Saudi ‘Arabian Winter’ season aimed at visitors to discover more than 17 destinations across the Kingdom.

The campaign will provide more than 300 packages and experiences, offered by over 200 private sector establishments. Saudi nationals and non-Saudi residents travelling as families, in groups or as individuals, as well as GCC nationals will have the opportunity to experience these offers to help them explore and discover the Kingdom's geographical and climate diversity.

THAILAND’S SPECIAL TOURIST VISA Visitors from around the world can now apply for the new Special Tourist Visa. Original this visa was designed for travellers coming from countries with a ‘low risk’ of spreading Covid-19. The 90 day stay visa which can be extended twice means a stay of 9 months is possible. Tourists, business travellers, investors and crews of foreign yachts are eligible for the Special Tourist Visa. However, visa holders still need to quarantine for 2 weeks upon arrival; need proof of their long-term accommodation or residence in Thailand (hotel reservation, rental contract or ownership documents); need medical and travel insurance as well as a valid Fit to Fly medical certificate.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES PROMOTES DESERT WINTERS and ENCOURAGES LOCAL TOURISM The UAE has launched a campaign to encourage domestic tourism by promoting its desert winters, as it begins to recover from the impact caused by the coronavirus pandemic. st This is the 1 federal domestic tourism campaign titled ‘World’s Coolest Winter’ and invites the public to explore the hidden gems of the 7 emirates.

Like much of the world, the UAE had been forced to shut down its international tourism sector due to the coronavirus pandemic, but has since begun to reopen with strict coronavirus protocols in place.

Each of the 7 emirates features rich tourist experiences, massive resources and cultural, archaeological and architectural treasures.

OMAN TOURISM BOOST - VISA-FREE, 10-DAY ENTRY TO 103 COUNTRIES Nationals from 103 counties requiring an entry visa for a stay of up to 10 days, will now not require one in a bid to support tourism and offer hope to the struggling economy. Visitors must have a confirmed hotel reservation, health insurance and a return ticket.

The country resumed international flights on 1 October but only citizens and people holding valid existing residency and work visas could enter.

LONDON HOTEL OPENINGS IN 2021

Despite a global pandemic, life does indeed go on and that is the case with several new hotel offerings scheduled to open in London this year.

Beaverbrook Town House, London - Opening Summer 2021 Beaverbrook is partnering with Cadogan Estates to bring the luxury of the award-winning country house hotel to Chelsea for 2021. Following a UK£25million restoration of two Georgian townhouses located on Sloane Street opposite Cadogan Place Gardens, the boutique hotel will offer 14 luxury suites, plus a contemporary Japanese restaurant and bar. It will be Cadogan’s 4th hotel collaboration, alongside 11 Cadogan Gardens, which joined luxury hotel and restaurant collection Relais and Chateaux in 2019, the Belmond Cadogan Hotel and the forthcoming Costes Hotel at One Sloane Square.

The Broadwick Soho, London - Opening Autumn 2021 The Broadwick Soho, is an independent luxury hotel 57 residential-style guestrooms, 9 suites, 1 penthouse, a rooftop cocktail bar with a large terrace with stunning views across the Soho skyline. There will also be a street-level Italian restaurant.

Many of the higher-tier rooms and suites feature private balconies overlooking the streets of the city.

Nobu Hotel London Portman Square Situated in the heart of central London, close to Marylebone’s independent boutiques and the shopping districts of Oxford Street and Regent Street.

Offering spacious living areas and views over the London skyline, to contemporary yet cosy rooms. Each bedroom takes its concept from the traditional English garden within the adjacent Portman Square, drawing on the natural materials, textures and tranquillity of this urban oasis. Finally it also offers a comprehensive range of both traditional and cutting-edge treatments, as well as a state-of-the-art gym, Pilates studio and juice bar.

From blogging to publishing, now comes her first book: Yaprak Gurdal’s immigration story to Canada.

"OVERSEAS LONELINESS"

Yaprak GĂźrdal has been sharing her travel experiences in her blog. Now her first book has arrived on the shelves.

The successful blogger and travel writer wrote her first book during the pandemic, adding one more title to her business card.

"Overseas Loneliness" chronicles her immigration experience and shares some of the trials and tribulations of life in Canada over a period of 12 years. The book includes commentary on her travel across Canada, the USA, and the Caribbean Islands; sowing the seeds of world traveller which she has become today.

Although realising her dreams of being a world traveller, she felt compelled to share some of the hardships endured during her lifetime.

Hearing "life has treated you well" was not completely accurate and so decided to share some of her more intimate life experiences in the book.

Yaprak has stated that the book has been written for anyone considering a move to Canada. She does not wish for anyone to immigrate to the other side of the world with unrealistic expectations just to be disappointed in the end.

With a traveller’s curiosity, she also examines her childhood more closely in an attempt to understand and heal from childhood wounds that ultimately triggered her migration to another country.

She has also announced that all proceeds from the book will be donated to causes supporting children’s education. She is focused on helping to provide a better education for as many children as possible.

The book is now on sale at various online platforms.

AIR TRAVEL IN 2021 AND BEYOND! As we were all pleased to say good bye to 2020, the New Year begins with a very very slow recovery for the aviation industry. 2020 was the worst year in the industry’s history and it will take several years for the sector to regain the figures seen pre-pandemic.

However, this is a chance for positive change and renewal and it has allowed for airlines to adapt on every level in order to survive.

As the world slowly becomes vaccinated, there is hope that borders will open quickly and international business and tourism will be able to resume. But we should all be prepared for new measures and trends when flying in the months and years to come.

We will see the implementation of new innovations from virus-sniffing dogs at airports to new apps that will make vaccination status and test results easier for border officials to read. They will have COVID-19 information and contact-tracing from airlines. This way airline companies can build passengers safety and get flying again.

Business travel is one of the main areas airlines need to get back into the air. Better business class perks are expected like more spacious and private seats, fare classes with added perks, and better loyalty programmes are areas where airlines can gain and win back business travellers.

With the vaccine already being administered across the globe, airlines are confident that this will encourage passengers to get back to flying. Although not compulsory to have, many airlines are only allowing inoculated passengers on-board to reduce the risk.

As we saw just before the pandemic, the aircraft being used was changing and now this will happen with greater speed. No longer are jumbos and double decker aircraft in demand; airlines are looking towards more efficient jets and heading into hybrid operations and new wing designs, but without losing internal space. Smaller planes will be more comfy with wider seats, larger dimmable windows and more spacious overhead lockers.

New destinations; the pandemic saw a large number of special flights to return ex-pats to their native homes. These demographics have given the airline sector an insight into the top routes and a stable sector of passengers which will frequently be making the journey from where the work/live back to their home nation.

With the chaos of cancelled flights as the pandemic progressed, passengers were given more flexibility on how to proceed with their bookings. Hopefully this will be a new norm with change and cancellation fees becoming unnecessary. We may also see changes to the fees on seat selection or baggage fees, which were becoming so complicated and tedious for passengers to navigate.

As a temporary measure, medical care has been available at most international airports, in part to administer Covid tests before flights depart or for arriving passengers. These are expected to stay. In the past, when travelling to various part of the world, you needed to take certain vaccinations and medications before travel, these kinds of services will now be available as a normal service at the airport.

It will be the start of a new industry of travel health and wellness.

RUSSIA CHALLANGING AIRBUS Russia has flown its domestic-made new passenger airliner which it hopes to challenge rival maker Airbus.

The medium-range MC-21 plane took off from Siberia using Russian-built PD-14 turbo-fan engines.

The MC-21 is built by Irkut Corporation, part of United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), and the engines are built by United Engine Corporation, all of which are majority owned by Rostec, Russia’s state aerospace and Defence Company.

The Soviet Union was once well known for its passenger aircraft, but after the fall of communism, the fleets were retired and Boeing and Airbus aircraft replaced them.

There are 2 modifications of the plane, which can seat 130 to 211 passengers, which will be made to order using different engines. To date 175 aircraft have been ordered including state airline Aeroflot ordering 50 planes.

CHINESE CABIN CREW ADVISED TO WEAR NAPPY TO AVOID VISITING THE TOILET ON FLIGHTS The incredible news given to China airline crews from the Civil Aviation Administration China (CAAC) is for them to wear disposable diapers/nappy’s while on board to avoid using the toilets and therefore reducing the risk of catching Covid-19!

This is in case you thought the prospect of sitting with strangers in a metal tube with circulating filtered air was any less of a risk!

With aviation being one of the worst hit sectors by coronavirus, seeing dramatic drops in demand, flights, and with thousands of job losses, it is no surprise that extreme and bizarre measures are being considered.

The recommendation to use nappies and avoid in-flight bathrooms altogether applies on flights to and from countries with infection rates exceeding 500 cases per million people.

China has seen a huge rebound in its economy since the end of its lockdown many months ago and domestic and regional flights are back to pre-health crises levels.

HEATHROW GO AHEAD FOR 3RD RUNWAY After years of talks, arguments, discussions, and court cases, London’s busiest airport has finally got the full go ahead to take the next step and build a 3rd runway. It will now submit planning permission for the project.

A Heathrow Spokesperson said “This is the right result for the country, which will allow Global Britain to become a reality. Only by expanding the UK’s hub airport can we connect all of Britain to all of the growing markets of the world, helping to create hundreds of thousands of jobs in every nation and region of our country. Demand for aviation will recover from Covid, and the additional capacity at an expanded Heathrow will allow Britain as a sovereign nation to compete for trade and win against our rivals in France and Germany. Heathrow has already committed to net zero and this ruling recognises the robust planning process that will require us to prove expansion is compliant with the UK’s climate change obligations, including the Paris Climate Agreement, before construction can begin.

The Government has made decarbonising aviation a central part of its green growth agenda, through wider use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel as well as new technology.

As passenger numbers recover, our immediate focus will be to continue to ensure their safety and to maintain our service levels while we consult with investors, government, airline customers and regulators on our next steps.”

AMERICAN AIRLINES COMPLETES FIRST U.S. 737 MAX FLIGHT The renewed Boeing 737 Max has returned to the skies in the USA after being banned from flying followed fatal air crashes in recent years. Boeing has reassured the aviation industry and the global public that the plane is safe to fly.

LAST BRITISH AIRWAYS 747 ARRIVES IN NEW HOME IN WALES The very last British Airways iconic 747 (‘Queen of the Skies’) made its final journey from Cardiff Airport to its new home at eCube Solutions in the Vale of Glamorgan in South Wales, where it will be preserved to inspire future generations.

ZOOX THE SELF-DRIVING ROBOTAXI Amazon’s self-driving vehicle company, Zoox, is set to launch its first robotaxi.

Zoox with its electric, fully driverless vehicle has been designed for hailing a ride like a taxi. It’s a ‘carriage-style’ car, means up to 4 passengers face each other and there’s no space for a driver or passenger seat, as there is no need for a steering wheel.

Zoox may fit into Amazon’s logistics network, by making delivery cheaper and faster than traditional methods.

The robotaxi has bidirectional driving capabilities and 4-wheel steering, which allows it to change directions without the need to reverse and navigate in compact spaces. It can travel up to 75 miles per hour and can run up to 16 hours on a single charge. It also has an airbag system on all four seats. Passengers will be able to control music, air conditioning, or see their route and ETA. Zoox is testing the vehicle in 3 cities; Las Vegas, Nevada; Foster City, California; and San Francisco, California.

It also plans to launch an app-based ridesharing service with this target markets will be San Francisco and Las Vegas.

WIZZ AIR ABU DHABI TAKES OFF – ATHENS, GREECE IS 1st DESTINATION Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, the newest national airline of the UAE is to fly to Athens, Greece for its inaugural destination on 15 January 2021.

It will also fly from Abu Dhabi to Thessaloniki from 4 February 2021.

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi route network includes Alexandria, Kutaisi, Larnaca, Odesa and Yerevan. These flights will begin once each destination joins the ‘green countries’ list. Further destinations will be launched as the airline adds to its Abu Dhabi-based fleet. With a fleet composed of brand new Airbus A321neo aircraft, the airline will have the lowest environmental footprint among its competitors in the region.

ALITALIA GETS MORE SUPPORT The European Commission has approved UK£66 million of Italian state aid support to compensate Alitalia for further damages due to the health crisis.

This is compensation for damages suffered on 19 routes due to the health crisis outbreak between 16 June and 31 October 2020. Alitalia has a fleet of over 95 planes. In 2019 it served hundreds of destinations all over the world, carrying 20 million passengers from its Rome hub and other Italian airports to many international destinations.

LIFT – THE LAUNCH OF A NEW AIRLINE! A South Africa aviation company ‘Lift’ has launched low-cost domestic flights to the country’s 50 million inhabitants. With a fleet of 3 A320 aircraft it flies between Cape Town, Johannesburg and the wealthy coastal city of George. Despite flying two routes, Lift’s focus is on the Johannesburg-Cape Town route.

Amazingly it’s the 10th or 11th busiest route in the world, which gives plenty of opportunity for the new route. Lift has 150 employees, many are aviation professionals, and its planes are operating regularly with nearly full loads.

THE REVIVAL OF SUPERSONIC TRAVEL In October 2003, the world’s only commercial supersonic aircraft made its last flight over London. Concorde Alpha Foxtrot, the final Concorde to be built and the last to fly is now on display in the Aerospace Bristol museum in the UK.

Forward 20 years and the age of new supersonic passenger jets is on the near horizon.

Boom Supersonic has tested its XB-1 supersonic plane, which will be the first civilian supersonic aircraft since the Soviet Union's Tupolev TU-144 going back to 1968.

The slim body with its pointed nose is reminiscent of Concorde’s shape and will carry creating a sonic boom as it races through the skies at Mach 2.2 speed.

65-88 passengers, while

Tupolev TU-144

Concorde

NASA plans to launch its X-59 by 2022. This aircraft will allow for supersonic flight overland and thereby eliminating or minimising the supersonic boom. It will be flown above several U.S. cities to see how much the boom is heard, allowing for the data to help regulators establish new rules on commercial supersonic air travel over land.

Aerion has produced the AS2 which will be in operation by 2027. It will accommodate 8-10 passengers and is targeting the niche supersonic business travel sector.

It will fly overland at Mach 1.4 speed, while over water reach Mach 2.2.

Boomless Cruise™ technology will ensure a sonic boom never reaches the ground, and the ability to run completely on synthetic fuels, makes the AS2 a revolution.

The aerospace industry is at its lowest point thanks to Covid-19 with many airlines cancelling orders, retiring planes, cancelling routes and reducing vast numbers of staff across all areas of their business. The question is, how many passengers will there be for supersonic flight, if normal aviation companies are struggling now! That depends on how aviation will change post-health crisis and how quickly passengers return. The real market will be to the luxury super-rich sector, which will easily opt for supersonic flight but will also reduce the first class and business sectors from standard aircraft.

Supersonic airliners are the aircraft of dreams! There have been many designs over the years, but they have all had many drawbacks, design challenges, are noisy, have high development costs, expensive construction materials, high fuel consumption , very high emissions, and cost way more than standard aircraft. Not ideal for a sector looking to reduce its carbon footprint and become more eco-friendly.

But, these new aircraft are breaking the mould again with new ideas and fuel options, giving them the green light both for construction and environmentally.

Supersonic travel is about to become real!

LONDON’S SECRET, CHARTERHOUSE

by Geraldine De Compte

With London on our doorstep, a Sunday walk in this city means you will always discover something new.

Having many times explored the West End, Covent Garden, the South Bank and many more delightful corners of London, this weekend walk took us to the Square Mile of the City of London.

On normal days, this area is full of city gents walking the many old streets, home to the prestigious Mansion House, Bank of England and Royal Exchange.

A few weekends out of the first lockdown and London was still very quiet and empty of people, especially for a weekend in July! The benefit however was that you could hear church bells from afar and the birds tweeting loudly in the trees above.

But this was not what amazed us the most on our walk... We entered Charterhouse Square.

Like so many squares across London, huge mature plane trees filled the green park area in the centre of the square, with wild flowers, winding pathways and park benches to enjoy the serenity of this small city garden. A small signpost tells you th that King Henry VIII’s 6 and final wife, Catherine Parr, lived in the square before she became Queen in 1543.

With stunning mansion houses on 2 sides, as well as an amazing Art Deco building of apartments, ‘Florin Court’, on the rd 3 side, which is more famously known as the fictional home th of the TV detective Hercules Poirot. On the 4 side of the square sits ‘Charterhouse’.

The Charterhouse is a former Carthusian monastery. Set in 7 acres on the border of the City of London.

In 1348 the land was used as a burial ground for victims of the Black Death plague. In 1371, the Charterhouse was built and in 1370 Sir Walter Manny founded the Monastery.

st

In 1545 Edward, the 1 Baron North bought the dilapidated monastery and th rebuilt the site as a large house. In 1564, the 4 Duke of Norfolk, Thomas Howard, bought the house and lavishly extended it to become Howard House.

In 1611, Thomas Sutton bought the house and turned it into a charity school and Almshouses; homes for poor or old people and disabled seamen, soldiers or those who lost everything by shipwreck. They were all known as ‘brothers’.

King James I kept his connection with the Charterhouse, st becoming the 1 Royal Governor of Thomas Sutton’s foundation.

Today, the Almshouses are still homes to elderly ‘brothers’, while the school moved to Godalming, Surrey in 1872, but saw prominent pupils during its times.

The residents live in private flats but are free to come and go as they please. Most eat their meals in the historic 16th century Great Hall. After providing much needed homes for people for over 400 years, there are many practices in place, like saying a pray at lunch. Not all residents are practising Christians, but it’s expected that everyone respects the Church of England origins.

The Charterhouse is custodian of a wide range of historic objects, acquired over its 660 year history. Most of the historic pieces, archive and library are on display in the museum. There are over 2000 objects including paintings, drawings and prints; historic silver; social history; historic furniture; an d several library collections, which all tells the story of the Charterhouse.

The Great Hall

Needless to say, with such a heritage and stunning architecture and interiors, the Charterhouse is the ideal venue for various events from weddings to corporate events and dinners.

The Great Hall is a stunning and grand room (capacity for Reception 180, Theatre 120, Seated dinner 100).

The Great Chamber (Reception 180, Theatre 140, Seated dinner 120) is the last surviving Tudor Great Chamber in London.

The Norfolk Cloister (Reception 180, Seated dinner 100) is a stunning 14th century monastery cloister which was later made into a garden gallery. With a stone flag floor and original features including an original doorway leading to one of the Carthusian monk’s cells, makes for a historic and unique venue for corporate events, dinners and wine tastings.

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For smaller events, The Governors’ Room with elegant wood panelling and prints of the Charterhouse on the walls offers capacity for: Reception 50, Theatre 40, Seated 28.

The Charterhouse Chapel accommodates 200 seated. The beautiful chapel is impressive with Jacobean carvings and Charterhouse’s founder Thomas Sutton’s tomb, the chapel is full of historical architectural detail and has excellent acoustics.

The Chapel Cloister (Reception 60, Seated dinner 40) sees a splendid doorway leading into the chapel. The chapel cloisters beautiful stone décor enables one to get a sense of what once was, reliving the rich history.

The Old Library (Reception 120, Seated dinner 50) is a stately room is ideal for meetings. With scars from the Blitz the Old Library highlights the history of the Charterhouse.

Others rooms and areas for venue hire include The Learning Centre, designed to be light and spacious which marries new design with the old. The Masters Court is the original entrance courtyard to the Tudor mansion, a perfect space to host welcome drinks, setting the scene for your memorable event. Outside the Norfolk Cloister is the very pretty and peaceful Norfolk Garden. This intimate garden is designed in the English Garden style.

Washhouse Court is one of the earliest parts of the Charterhouse, this courtyard was originally used for laundry, bakery and kitchen for the monks. The original cobbles and patterned brick walls of the court gives a unique sense of another century.

Although currently closed due to the on-going health crisis, and in particular to protect the vulnerable ‘brothers’ this is a spectacular venue and offers a unique insight into London and the history of the site.

Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions & Venues

MEETEX 2021

is the most important Croatian Meetings Industry B2B gathering, as unique as Croatia itself.

From 16-18 March 2021 the annual event will give buyers the opportunity to stay up-to-date with the market, friends and colleagues, meet new ones, start fresh business, help revive the industry... and all that in a very different way than any B2B Tradeshow before.

MEETEX 2021 PROGRAMME Both Virtual And Live Experience!

Although quite new as a project, MEETEX has after only 2 editions already become the flagship event of the Meetings Industry in Croatia, and challenging times will not stop them. Due to the global COVID-19 crisis, in March 2021 it will not be a physical event, however there is an innovative programme planned.

MEETEX 2021 Working Week in March 2021 – virtual part We are all tired of fixed timings and slots for webinars and online meetings, so this will be a bit different trying to make you feel more relaxed, but still give you the opportunity to do some serious business. You will have more than 100 hours for your free choice of your one-on-one appointments timing!!

ONE-ON-ONE

prescheduled virtual appointments between Croatian suppliers and International Hosted Buyers will be held throughout the week 15-19 March 2021, at any time you prefer, in 30min slots. The appointments platform will offer round-the-clock slots from March 15 at 09:00 CET until March 19 at 21:00 CET. Maybe you want to have an appointment at 6 AM or 10 PM, we don't mind, it is completely up to you. No limits - except in the number of appointments each Exhibitor will choose.

The only slots when you will not be able to schedule One-on-one appointments will be pre-fixed slots for the content MEETEX has prepared for all of you during the ‘official’ meeting days – 16-18 March. And don't be afraid, we will not suffocate you; we are preparing a few captivating speakers, a panel for sharing ideas, Q&A sessions so that you can talk with speakers and maybe even us – organisers, a few inspiring movies about the beauties of Croatia, a few virtual venue tours, and some slots for our sponsors to show you what can they do for you. Please join those slots, and for the most diligent and hardworking ones there will be prizes!

MEETEX 2021 Working week are eligible for what is following in September as a second part of MEETEX 2021.... MEETEX 2021 Live Experience!

All Hosted Buyers participating in

MEETEX 2021 Live Experience is scheduled to happen in September 2021, as a pleasure week on spot in Croatia, because we are all aware that nothing can replace a personal touch and on-site experience. It is planned to be a one week-long FAM TRIP for a larger group of approx. 20 buyers (chosen by Exhibitors in post-MEETEX working week survey) covering 5 most important Croatian Meetings Destination... or it will be a number of shorter trips for smaller groups and for selected destinations.

As this is a live component of MEETEX 2021, it will obviously rely on epidemiological situation in Croatia and generally in Europe as well as on sponsors and supporters. We all want to make sure that Buyers can fully enjoy Croatia – its destinations, venues, local culture & cuisine while traveling with assurance and confidence. Safety, professionalism, and fun will be our priorities.

It’s time to discover Croatia MICE!

REED EXHIBITIONS ANNOUNCES ANNA DYCHEVA-SMIRNOVA AS CEO OF REED EXHIBITIONS UK Reed Exhibitions has appointed Ms. Anna Dycheva-Smirnova as CEO of Russia, Turkey and the Middle East, effective from 1 January 2021.

Dycheva-Smirnova joined Reed Exhibitions as Deputy General Manager of Reed Exhibitions Russia in 2008 and became CEO of Reed Exhibitions Russia in 2017. In 2019, she was named CEO of Reed Exhibitions Turkey and Reed Exhibitions Middle East.

Dycheva-Smirnova said, “I am delighted to be joining such a passionate and knowledgeable team in the UK. In 2020, our industry underwent a tremendous shock right around the world. My first job will be to support our teams in the UK and rebuild our business - integrating our digital expertise into our future events – delivering compelling value for our customers and driving our company back to growth. I cannot wait to get started.”

www.miceandtourismaroundtheworld.com

REAL IN-PERSON MEETINGS GRADUALLY RETURN IF A LITTLE DIFFERENT! In the past year, we have gone from friendly, cosy meetings and events with handshakes to buffet luncheons and goody bags, to QR code menus, hand sanitiser, face masks and seating 2m apart. This is not what the events industry is meant to be like! But as we gradually come to terms with this new norm, the desire to meet face to face is huge and it is possible to do so, when legally allowed and with success. Organising a safe and successful in-person event is possible, but requires a lot of planning, and adapting with active communication with attendees and suppliers and exhibitors.

EDINBURGH SECURES THREE CONFERENCES FOR 2021

MAJOR

The Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) has secured 3 major conferences for 2021.

The British Society of Lifestyle Medicine is set to take place in September 2021, Cleantech Forum Europe in October 2021 and the Society for Endocrinology in November 2021. The EICC has been running online events during the pandemic and has produced economic impact of over UK£720 million since opening its doors in September 1995.

During that time, 3500 events have been held at the venue with total delegate numbers standing at 1,475,892.

MEETINGS MEAN BUSINESS CANADA'S STRATEGIC GOALS FOR 2021 A new year means a fresh start!

Meetings Mean Business Canada (MMBC), along with its partners and stakeholders, advocated tirelessly on behalf of the industry throughout 2020. And while much was achieved during that challenging year, they have already kick-started their goals for 2021.

Not only will they advocate for continued government support for the sector's hardest hit businesses, they will amplify their key messaging on the crucial role that business events play in economic development, revenue generation, sustainability and international growth.

Here are the key objectives they are working toward in 2021: -Continue to advocate at the federal, provincial and municipal levels -Continue its work with coalition partners —Tourism Industry Association of Canada, the Canadian Travel & Tourism Roundtable and the Coalition of Hardest Hit Businesses—to align member voices in the push for federal relief.

-Accelerate provincial government engagement by developing Provincial Leadership Circles to coordinate activities and facilitate communications and information sharing across the country.

-Develop key relationships with government sector leaders as well as sector advocacy groups.

-Lead project-based advocacy initiatives.

-Become the central hub for advocacy information and communications support materials for industry partners.

-Become the central depository for information (e.g., data, stats, case studies), for provincial and federal governments, researchers, etc.

THE BUSINESS TRAVEL CONFERENCE 2021, LONDON, UK The 2021 edition of the Business Travel Conference will take place from 14-15 September in London, UK. The event has been a key fixture in the business travel world since 2007 as the major annual event of The Business Travel Magazine.

A comprehensive learning programme with leading industry speakers and thought provoking keynotes. Meet with and learn from over 60 leading business travel suppliers in the TBTC'21 exhibition – from airlines and hotels to TMCs, technology specialists and more.

IBTM AMERICAS 2021 WILL BE HELD IN AUGUST Reed Exhibitions Mexico, organiser of IBTM Americas, has confirmed that the event scheduled for 19-20 May 2021 will now be held from 18-19 August 2021 at Centro Citibanamex in Mexico City.

This decision has been made based on the country’s predictions about the health conditions that indicate that the second half of the year will be more conducive for holding events.

IBTM Americas has 10 years of history, and is a bridge to connect the leaders of meetings and events industry across the Americas. Its primary purpose is to bring the community together to do business, network and inspire each other, and so the event will also be offering virtual solutions alongside the in-person show in August.

PUSHING TO NEED AND POTENTIAL FOR EVENTS Associated Spanish Event Agencies (AEVEA) wants to make known to society and institutions the strengths of corporate events and MICE since it is one of the industries most affected by the pandemic, and yet one of the least understood and taken into account.

E.V.E.N.T.O.S! We start with the definition: An event is an act of live communication in which an organisation intends to transmit a specific message, to a specific audience, to provoke a response or generate an attitude.

E for Emotions ... Through creativity we seek to excite those attending the event, to impact them and cause the brand message to be engraved in their memory. Emotionalising the event makes it reach the heart, making the messages much more noticeable. According to science "without emotion there is no attention and without attention there is no memory." Neuromarketing techniques (electroencephalogram, eye tracking, galvanic skin response, biometry ...) applied to events help us measure the speed of our brain's reaction to a stimulus, determine if the emotions experienced by our audience are positive or negative, its level of intensity ... In this way we can evaluate the event programme, its speakers, the slogan, the proposed destination, the event website ...

V for Brand Visibility ... Events are a powerful communication and marketing tool with which brands launch their new products, inaugurate, reward, present results to their shareholders and the media, transmit their strategy to their employees, show scientists advance them to groups, promote sports, make a territory known and praise ... All through making experiences that make visible and position brands in the heads of employees, consumers, media, participants ...

E for Engagement… The event generates commitment, involvement, by involving the attendees of an event with the brand that promotes it. The power of face-to-face as an opportunity to capture attention and link people with the brand.

N for Networking ... Create business relationships, business opportunities, share experiences ... the face to face of events is something unbeatable in this field!

T for Transformation… An event can have the objective of motivating, creating a team, transmitting messages, training…, in short, it transforms behaviors and ways of relating, strengthens ties, promotes learning…, which translates into sales.

Or Omnichannel ... The combination of off and on is a binomial of success. Technology helps to work the event before (reaching the audience, focusing on their interests), during (causing face-to-face, two-way interaction) and afterwards, increasing the experience, lengthening it and thus also prolonging the moment of business generation.

S for Security ... If security was already an indispensable value in every event, now there are health protocols that minimise the risk of contagion to the maximum. Access management, capacity control, safety distance, specific measures for catering services, for audiovisuals, specialised personnel to comply with measures and recommendations ... make the organisation of professional events an industry Very safe.

NEW SMART VISA FOR DIGITAL FREELANCERS IN THAILAND Digital freelancers in Thailand can soon apply for the Smart Visa, allowing them to stay for 4 years without a work permit. The Board of Investment, proposal will allow foreign freelancers to apply for the Smart Visa. Up until now many have had to leave and re-enter the country to continue working there on a tourist, education or volunteer visa.

Those already in Thailand on a tourist visa would be able to transfer to a Smart Visa. Applicants would need to have an employment contract with a foreign firm for at least 6 months as well as proof of qualifications and experience.

BOI believes that that new Smart Visa for foreign freelancers will draw in more talent from overseas.

The Smart Visa was launched in February 2018 aimed to enhance Thailand’s attractiveness in drawing science and technology experts, senior executives, investors and start-ups. However, only 514 foreigners have been granted the Smart Visa.

THE 7TH VIRTUAL ATHENS INTERNATIONAL TOURISM EXPO 2020 ENDED WITH GREAT SUCCESS The business world of tourism, from Greece and abroad, gave potential presence at the 7th Virtual Athens International Tourism Expo 2020 sending at the same time a resounding message that the tourism industry will recover immediately.

In the new virtual edition of the Expo, due to the pandemic, the results surpassed expectations; the numbers speak for themselves: They participated: 100 Exhibitors, such as Regions, Municipalities, Hotels, Travel Agencies and Tour Operators, 85 International Buyers and Travel Agents from 45 countries They took place: 1,850 very successful B2B teleconference meetings between Exhibitors, Buyers and on-line visitors from Greece and Abroad.

4,650 on-line business visitors, from Greece and Abroad connected with the exhibition, visited the digital kiosks of Exhibitors, held on camera meetings with Exhibitors and the majority of them attended the Live events.

It is also noteworthy that, despite the adverse conditions prevailing due to the pandemic, after the end of the Exhibition, the majority of Buyers and Exhibitors characterised the Exhibition as extremely successful and with very important meetings which will lead to trade agreements for incoming tourism in Greece for 2021.

The Minister Tourism Mr. Ch. Theocharis inaugurated the exhibition, online, congratulating at the same time the organisation for daring to hold the Athens International Tourism Expo as an online version.

The Live Events of the Exhibition also took place with great success which were attended on line by professional visitors from Greece and abroad.

In Live Events: The Region of Crete with their Speakers Dr. Kyriakos Kotsoglou, Commissioner of Tourism & Mr. Nikos Alexakis, Head, Directorate for Tourism presented the topic "Sense the authentic Crete 365 days".

The Region of Central Greece with their Speakers Mr. Elias Bourma, Deputy Governor of Tourism & Culture & Mrs. Marianna Liaskou, Tourism Officer presented the topic “Region of Central Greece / Tourism-Culture / Gastronomy”.

The Attica Region, which unfortunately due to illness of the Regional Governor Mr. George Patoulis, did not have the opportunity to attend "live", he presented writing the theme “Attica Region: The tourism for the year 2021”.

The Athens Convention & Visitors Bureau with Speaker Mr. Vyronas Myrgiotis, International Account Manager, ACVB, presented the topic: “Forward Thinking Heritage ”.

Finally, the General Secretary of EOT Mr. Dimitris Fraggakis, with his message to Buyers stressed, among other things “2021 will not be a year of automatic return to normalcy. Recovery will take place, but it will be gradual. It is yet too early for predictions for the next season, but the initial messages we receive are encouraging, mainly as a result of the positive evaluation of the country’s efforts to safeguard the brand of Greece as a destination. Our current performance in the containment of the pandemic will largely determine the characteristics of the 2021 season, also in light of the future performance of our competitors. It is key that we persist to implement and abide by the measures advised by the experts.”

The organisation of the Expo warmly thanks the Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Culture who put the Exhibition under their auspices as well as GNTO who, for another year, supported the Exhibition and stood as a helper to her effort. Warm thanks also to all the Exhibitors who, with their dynamics presence and their excellent digital kiosks, really supported, along with Buyers, the incoming tourism in our country in 2021.

The Organisers: LEADERTECH Co, Viantos str. 2, 10442 Athens, Greece, Tel. +30-210-6141164, info@leaderexpo.gr,

www.aite.gr

LONDON’s SHOPPING ARCADES

by Ethan Franckwell

The Royal Arcade, London

Step back in time on a journey of elegance and chic shopping, that you can still experience today in London’s unique and stunning shopping arcades.

BURLINGTON ARCADE Burlington Arcade opened in 1819 selling ‘jewellery and fancy articles of fashionable demand, for the gratification of the public.’ The arcade enabled shoppers to walk along protected from the weather.

There were 51 independent boutiques in its 72 units. At 179m long, the stunning arcade was, and remains one of the longest in Britain.

Today, there are 46 boutiques and the arcade sees 4 million visitors a year. The longest established boutique in the arcade is N.Peal, whose cashmere shop has been trading in the Arcade for 84 years.

Several boutiques are exclusive to the Arcade, like Manolo Blahnik (men’s shoe), which is the only one in the world.

Burlington Arcade is also known for its fragrance houses like Roja Parfums and Penhaligons, and for hand-made leather goods from Strathberry and Kwanpen.

In true traditional style, the Arcade offers a specialist shoe-shine service, delivered outside Church’s shoe boutique.

Another unique feature of the Arcade are its ‘Beadles’ originally recruited as guards from the 10th Hussars. The Beadles still wear Regency inspired uniforms and comprise the oldest and smallest police force in Britain. They ensure the ancient strict rules of the arcade are followed so whistling, running, riding a bicycle or ‘behaving boisterously’ are not allowed.

ROYAL ARCADE The Arcade was constructed in 1879 and connects Old Bond Street with Albemarle Street in Mayfair.

It is the city’s oldest purpose-built shopping arcade.

Originally called The Arcade, it changed to become the Royal Arcade when one of the occupants was granted a Royal Warrant to supply the Royal household. Today, Charbonnel et Walker located in the arcade hold the Royal Warrant as chocolatiers to Her Majesty The Queen.

Its architecture offers a glass roof, richly decorated stucco arches, curved glass window bays and elegant Ionic columns, the ultimate of Victorian design. It has changed little over the past 136 years and retains all its original features. It is therefore a rare opportunity to experience a genuine Victorian arcade is it was intended.

With millions of visitors a year, the arcade is truly magical at Christmas with stunning decorations along its length.

Today, The Royal Arcade continues its longestablished reputation for luxury retail, with the current tenants providing a mix of world renowned brands and unique independent stores.

PRINCE’S ARCADE Princes Arcade forms part of Princes House which was originally built to house the Royal Institute of Painters

Painters in Water Colours. The arcade was opened in 1933 and runs between Piccadilly and Jermyn Street, a few doors along from the iconic Fortnum & Mason department store.

It is home to everything required by gentlemen from ties, cufflinks, waistcoats, shoes, hair and beard care among other boutiques.

Jermyn Street, well known as the original home of menswear, is still one of the most historic streets in London, with a unique collection of independent boutiques and high-end brands. On the doorstep of the royal residences, it has the most Royal Warrants of any single street in the country!

PICCADILLY ARCADE The Piccadilly Arcade in opened in 1910 and quickly gained a reputation for high quality retail outlets, becoming known as the 'street for every gentleman'.

Catering for the many rich and well to do local residents in Mayfair and St James visiting any of the arcades offers a different shopping experience.

The Piccadilly Arcade allows you to conduct elegant shopping within the beauty of London's finest Edwardian arcade. The arcade opens out onto Jermyn Street; the most British shopping street in London.

As you leave the arcade at the Jermyn Street end, a bronze statue of a dapper young man greets you. This is Beau Brummel, an icon of male fashion, looks and style for the time. He had friends in high places and was a close friend of the Prince Regent. Over the years, his name is still associated with style and good looks, and has been used to highlight products for their high quality.

Piccadilly Arcade has always offered traditional quality, luxury and style.

The same is true today as it was in 1910.

LEADENHALL MARKET Although not quite an arcade in the same way, Leadenhall Market deserves to be included as a covered shopping experience.

Built on the site of a Roman Basilica (Courts) and Forum (Market), Leadenhall was the largest market North of the Alps and occupied an area bigger than that of Trafalgar Square.

It dates back to the 14th century and located in the heart of Roman London. It was originally a meat, poultry and game market. After the Great Fire of London in 1666 which destroyed parts of the market, it was rebuilt with the addition of a covered roof. It was then a Beef Market, a Green Yard and a Herb Market.

Extensively restored in 1991, it offers a spectacular Victorian setting with the roof, cobbles and preserved buildings. Leadenhall Market has evolved into a major shopping centre with a delightful shopping experience and home to a number of boutiques, restaurants, cafes, wine bars and an award-winning pub.

The arcade takes on an even more magical feel when dressed for Christmas!

Shopping in London has never been so stunning; forget your high street brands and head for the arcades as well as the one of a kind London offerings of Harrods, Selfridges, Fortnum & Masons and Liberty’s!