Travel Trade Europe, 25 November 2015, Issue 26

25 NOVEMBER 2015

ISSUE 26

BOOMING TOURISM FIGURES FOR BRITAIN LOCALLY DEEMED AS THE DESTINATION OF FUN AND QUALITY NIGHTLIFE, THE CYPRIOT CITY OF LIMASSOL IS SEEKING TO BUILD A NEW IMAGE AND BOAST A FRESH FACE.

08 SOCIAL MEDIA TRANSFORMS DESTINATION BRANDING

21 IN THIS ISSUE MARKET UPDATE

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PERFORMANCE

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CRUISING

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TOURISM BOARDS

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SHORT BREAK: LIMASSOL

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ACCOMMODATION

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AIR

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RENDEZVOUS

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TRAVEL CHANNELS

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WHO’S MOVED

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PHOTO ALBUM

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NEWS & EVENTS

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SHORT BREAK: Limassol

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MARKET UPDATE TRAVEL TRADE PUBLICATIONS MANAGING EDITOR Mary Kammitsi mary@traveltradeweekly.travel ASSISTANT EDITOR Maria Kazeli SENIOR JOURNALIST Rita Kasziba

Ryanair Profits Rise 37 Percent Ryanair recorded net earnings of EUR1.09 billion for the first half of the year, up 37 percent, as traffic rose 13 percent to 58 million passengers with an average load factor of 93 percent.

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CONTRIBUTOR Ana Mladenovic

PRESS Maria Demetriadou Pauline Shahabian Inna Armeanu

evenue for the six-month period reached EUR3.54 billion, a year-on-year increase of 14 percent, while average fares grew two percent as unit costs fell six percent.

This winter, Ryanair will open four new bases and 119 routes.

As David O’Leary, CEO, Ryanair, revealed, the company has raised the outlook for the financial year to 105 million customers and by 2024, the Irish airline plans to carry 180 million passengers per annum.

Successful September in Vienna

DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou

Vienna Airport handled some 2.3 million passengers in September, signalling a 4.3 percent increase over the same month in 2014.

WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis

Vienna Airport

DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi

HEADQUARTERS T.T.W. Travel Trade Weekly LTD P.O. Box 25255, Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +357 22 021607, Fax: +357 22 103670

WEBSITE www.traveltradeeurope.travel

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he airfield further reported a 1.2 percent surge in the number of transfer travellers while local volume was also up 5.7 percent.

Demand for services to Western Europe improved 4.4 percent, whereas figures to Eastern Europe climbed 2.4 percent, the largest growth was, however, reported on Middle Eastern routes, up 8.6 percent.

On the other hand, passenger numbers to the Far East and Africa dropped.

EMAILS info@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel

EXCHANGE RATES

Accurate as of

25/11/2015 COUNTRY

2

CURRENCY

1EUR=

US (USD)

Dollar

1.08

UK (GBP)

Pound

0.70

Switzerland (CHF)

Franc

1.08

Japan (JPY)

Yen

130.29

Upward Trend Continues for Austrian Austrian Airlines carried more than 1.1 million passengers in September, corresponding to a year-on-year increase of 2.2 percent.

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he growth was mainly driven by a 3.1 percent rise in European flight traffic, featuring two new destinations within the route network compared to September 2014.

For the third quarter of the year, the Austrian carrier reported a 2.4 percent rise in customer volume, having served 3.4 million travellers with a load factor of 84.8 percent.

During the period between January and September, the airline transported 8.4 million passengers, down 3.5 percent due to cutbacks in operations mostly to Eastern European destinations.

25 NOVEMBER 2015

HOTEL PERFORMANCE NEWS

Rome Hotels Under Pressure

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otels in Rome reported strong occupancy levels at 84.9 percent allowing hoteliers to effectively yield achieved average room rate (ARR), by 4.6 percent, to EUR221.95.

As a result, RevPAR increased 4.7 percent year-on-year to EUR188.52.

The Italian capital has never been the most profitable of European hotel markets, due in part to high labour costs, recorded at 38.6 percent of total revenue between January and September, but falling revenues across other departments and a rising cost base contributed to a year-on-year GOPPAR decline of seven percent for the month. As a result, hoteliers recorded a profit conversion of just 34.6 percent of total revenue.

Warsaw Hotels Profit as Capital Hosts Major Conference

EUROPEAN HOTELS BANK ON AUTUMN EVENTS Sport competitions and congresses drove demand for accommodation across the continent in September, with occupancy levels in Berlin exceeding 90 percent, as data collected by HotStats revealed.

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ccommodation establishments in Warsaw witnessed their highest monthly occupancy at 91 percent in the last three years as the biennial 2,000-strong four-day EUROMAT Congress and Exhibition filled the city and helped drive a 1.8 percentage point surge in room occupancy and a 10.4 percent increase in ARR to EUR107.56.

The high volume of demand and premium rates resulted in improvements across a number of costs, including labour, which decreased by 1.3 percentage points to 20.7 percent of total revenue from 21.9 percent during the same period in 2014.

Hotels in Warsaw are typically highly profitable, and gross operating profit conversion hit 48.9 percent of total revenue for the month of September.

Over 90 Percent Occupancy in Berlin

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eptember is typically a good month for hoteliers in the German capital as major sporting events propel demand and this year the sector was able to break through the 90 percent occupancy mark. The greatest margin of growth was achieved in best available rate, up five percent; individual leisure, up 4.5 percent; and group leisure, up 20 percent.

Overall, September will undoubtedly be noted by Berlin hoteliers as the strongest month of performance so far this year, with a 3.2 percent increase recorded in total revenue per available room (TRevPAR) to EUR215.06, which contributed to a 2.6 percent rise in gross operating profit per available room (GOPPAR) to EUR94.93, equivalent to a profit conversion of 44.1 percent.

25 NOVEMBER 2015

Warsaw

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NEWS CRUISING Carnival Dedicates Ships to Chinese Market

Quantum of the Seas

Royal Caribbean to Expand Fleet

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oyal Caribbean International has entered into an agreement with shipbuilding company, Meyer Werft for a fifth Quantum-class vessel for delivery in autumn 2020.

Michael Bayley, president, Royal Caribbean International, enthused, “At Royal Caribbean we are focussed on continuously improving efficiency and sustainability, and the fifth Quantum-class vessel will be clear evidence of this. Of equal importance is our ability to consistently surpass guest expectations, and we are harnessing the power of the latest technology to do so on this ship.”

Celestyal Remains Committed to Turkish Homeport

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arnival Cruise Line has announced an initial commitment of two vessels to the Chinese segment, starting with Carnival Miracle in spring 2017 followed by Carnival Splendor in 2018, both of which will be based in the Asian country year-round.

The ships will offer memorable, high-quality vacations featuring service and hospitality in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

Christine Duffy, president, Carnival Cruise Line, noted, “[Carnival Cruise Line] attracts more than 4.5 million guests a year, and as the family cruise leader, we also carry more than 700,000 children each year. Multi-generational families also choose to vacation with Carnival more than any other cruise brand. We look forward to bringing our one-of-a-kind, exceptionally popular cruise experience to the Chinese market.”

Norwegian Epic Ready to Re-set Sail

Celestyal Odyssey

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Norwegian Epic

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elestyal Cruises will extend its homeporting programme in Turkey, which commenced this year with embarkation from Istanbul, Izmir and Kusadassi, for another two years.

A new ship, Celestyal Nefeli, formerly known as Gemini, will replace Celestyal Odyssey, whose charter agreement concluded at the end of October.

The vessel, which can accommodate 1.074 passengers, will be delivered to the company in February 2016 and refurbished prior to the new cruise season at which time it will sail the cruise line’s popular itineraries. It is considered to be the ideal size for docking in smaller harbours throughout the Eastern Mediterranean, and areas which are keen on developing their cruising segment.

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orwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Epic welcomed guests following a three-week dry docking during which the ship received significant enhancements, including entertainment, dining and technical additions and more.

The new features come as the vessel readies for the winter and summer season sailing the Mediterranean from Barcelona, followed by its return to the US and its new base, Port Canaveral in autumn 2016.

Andy Stuart, president, Norwegian Cruise Line, noted, “We continue to heavily invest in our current fleet, to ensure that guests have a consistent experience across all Norwegian ships and the freedom and flexibility to create their ideal cruise vacation.”

25 NOVEMBER 2015

NEWS Enterprise Holdings to Deliver Singular Standards

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ow. .

ings Hold own e s i rpr tes Ente ts affilia more i e t d a ars an oper on c and .7 milli s?

1 ck than and tru

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n a bid to measure and drive service excellence, Enterprise Holdings introduced its customer satisfaction standard, Service Quality Index (SQi), to all its European franchise partners.

The initiative’s adoption will provide a single measurement for all three of the company’s brands; Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car. It will further allow every branch to benchmark its service against a company-wide global norm.

Greg Stubblefield, executive vice president, Enterprise Holdings, noted, “The rollout of SQi to our European partners will ensure that customers receive Enterprise’s renowned customer service regardless of where they pick up the vehicle. It is vital for our customers to know that they are going to receive the same attention to quality and service wherever they may be.”

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n light of the continent’s decreasing competitiveness, Visit Europe and European Tourism Association (ETOA) held a joint conference on Europe as a destination in London, focussing on key markets such as China, Russia and the US. Chaired by Tony Travers, director, London School of Economics, the event highlighted various factors that range from difficulties with the high taxation of tourism exports, challenging entry requirements, transport capacity and tourism regulations which date back to the 1970s.

With Russia being the largest external provider of visitors to Europe, the conference aimed to examine the impact of the current visa regime and prospects for change. The increase in visitors from China has been one of the most heralded phenomena in European tourism, thus, the emphasis on the market and its spending habits. Likewise, Europe’s changing perception in the US was also discussed.

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Tony Travers

Boosting Europe’s Competitiveness

25 NOVEMBER 2015

AIRPORTS NEWS Stansted Airport Marks New Milestone

Heathrow Airport

HeathrowLures to Contribute to Scottish Slovenia More Foreign TouristsProsperity

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eathrow Airport’s grand expansion project is set to greatly benefit Scotland.

According to a report by the airfield, the country will gain from the creation of over 16,000 jobs, lower air fares for passengers, new domestic connections to drive trade, as well as inward investment and exports to global markets.

In addition, new figures from independent research company, Quod show that the enhancement scheme will boost the Scottish manufacturing industry which will be spurred on by the addition of up to 7,000 new positions. As well as being an export segment which will profit significantly from improved trade links, the associated sector will benefit directly as the airport sources materials and services to build the new runway and terminal facilities.

25 NOVEMBER 2015

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ondon Stansted Airport has topped 22 million passengers in a year for the first time in over six years, as the total number of travellers passing through the terminal increased 15.8 percent in the past 12 months.

In September, the airfield handled nine percent more passengers than in the corresponding timeframe in 2014, as it served over two million customers for the fifth consecutive month. The period also saw the highest-ever average load factor for any September with 87.8 percent of all seats occupied on each flight.

Cargo tonnage rose 7.3 percentage points lifting the total to over 235,000 tonnes in the rolling12 months, up 9.5 percent year-on-year.

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NEWS TOURISM BOARDS Belarusians Welcomed in Tajikistan

Booming Tourism Figures for Britain

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London

37-strong Belarusian delegation headed to Dushanbe for the Days of Belarusian Culture event.

The programme included the screening of two Belarusian films as well as five animation pictures. Tajikistan also featured performances of the Belarusian State Dance Ensemble and a photo exhibition about the hosted country.

Furthermore, ties between Belarus and Indonesia have strengthened as the Asian country announced visa-free entry for up to 30 days for tourists from the Eastern European market, accessible through specially designed checkpoints at airports, ports and border-crossing locations.

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reat Britain welcomed three percent more visitors during the first six months of the year, who had spent two percent more during their stay than in the same period

Belarus

in 2014.

All in all, their contribution to the national economy amounted to GBP9.5 billion (EUR13.27 billion).

Arrivals significantly surged from China, the GCC and the US, rising 28, two and three percent, respectively to reach 90,000; 282,000; and 1.4 million guests.

Leisure visits stood at 6.5 million, while business visits surged 11 percent to 4.4 million.

Patricia Yates, director of strategy and communications, said, “It is heartening to see the growth in visitor spend and numbers […] as we continue to compete in an environment of shifting exchange rates.”

Tourism Ireland Ups Marketing Initiatives

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DER Touristik Takes the Lead in Regional Tourism

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Belfast

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ER Touristik, the travel division of REWE Group, has reorganised itself to assume a leading role in the European travel market As the Frankfurt-based travel group announced, the European Union and Switzerland’s competition authorities have approved, without conditions, the acquisition of the entire European tour operator and travel sales business of Swiss tourism group Kuoni Travel Holding.

With the agreement, the company will have a combined revenue of EUR7 billion and 7.7 million customers across 14 countries in the region.

The transaction covers all tour operators, specialists, travel agencies and online portals in the markets of Switzerland, the UK, Benelux as well as Scandinavia.

ourism Ireland engaged in a range of promotional activities in October in a bid to boost visits to Northern Ire-

land.

Working closely with airlines and airports to build demand for flights, the authority joined forces with Aer Lingus to enhance routes to Cork Airport, and in doing so highlighted the colourful towns, lush landscapes and deserted beaches of the city.

Furthermore, leading travel agents from across the US took part in a fact-finding trip where they also visited Belfast’s top attractions.

Additionally, 11 French group travel organisers toured the country as guests of the tourism body and gained first-hand experience in some of the locations’ many things to do and see.

25 NOVEMBER 2015

LIMASSOL SHORT BREAK

Cosmopolitan Vibe LOCALLY DEEMED AS THE CITY OF FUN AND QUALITY NIGHTLIFE, THE CYPRIOT CITY OF LIMASSOL IS SEEKING TO BUILD A NEW IMAGE AND BOAST A FRESH FACE TO DOMESTIC AS WELL AS INTERNATIONAL VISITORS.  Maria Kazeli writes

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imassol as a destination was significantly upgraded in the last decade providing a magnificent combination of old and modern. Areas such as the Medieval Castle square, Saripolou street, the two marinas, the seaside Prokymea park, the seaside walking and cycling paths are only a few of the must-visit places that add value to any tourist’s experience, any time of the year,” emphasised Maria Stylianou Michaelidou, manager, Limassol Tourism Board.

Tourism stakeholders in the Cypriot coastal destination have taken strides to improve Limassol’s image and perception concerning its overall potential.

As Chris Aristidou, general manager, Elias Beach Hotel, noted, over the past 15 years, the city had lost some of its tourist appeal due to various develop25 NOVEMBER 2015

LIMASSOL IN BRIEF Country: Cyprus Currency: Euro (EUR) Language: Greek Population: 239,700 Calling Code: +357 Capital Time Zone: GMT +2:00

ments aimed at enhancing infrastructure, however, Limassol has now turned into a beautiful destination and it is up to local authorities and tour operators to concentrate on promoting this cosmopolitan city, he claimed.

And this is indeed a main concern for Limassol Tourism Board, with Stylianou Michaelidou underlining, “Our immediate priorities at the moment include very intensive efforts to ensure European Union funding through projects that directly upgrade the tourist product of Limassol. We are

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SHORT BREAK LIMASSOL

also planning a campaign for the local market for weekends in Limassol in autumn and winter, [focussing] mainly on gastronomy and nightlife.”

The tourism body also lays great emphasis on special interest segments, such as sports tourism, weddings and honeymoons, as well as conferences and incentives travel.

“We have been working closely with athletic event organisers to attract European and international championships to Limassol. These events are mainly taking place off season, therefore, serving as an injection for the tourist industry,” explained Stylianou Michaelidou, adding that individuals visiting the island to participate in these tournaments as competitors or spectators become prospective holiday-makers. In addition they also communicate their experiences through social media to thousands of people, which serves as a very powerful tool to increase awareness of the city.

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LIMASSOL AS A DESTINATION WAS SIGNIFICANTLY UPGRADED IN THE LAST DECADE

THE RUSSIAN FACTOR It is no secret that Limassol is a preferred destination and a popular hotspot among Russian expatriates and travellers. Despite the decrease in arrivals, as Stylianou Michaelidou admitted, the Russian and Ukrainian markets remain significant for the city.

This decline was felt not only in the hospitality sector, but also in the broader tourism industry.

Nicole Efstathiou, public relations

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and sales manager, Fasouri Watermania Waterpark, revealed that the attraction received fewer clients from tour operators precisely due to the Russian market’s recession. However, this year has been successful for the water park as the local market grew 44 percent.

Overreliance on the all-important

Russian segment makes it difficult to predict the annual outlook, added Vassos Kilanis, general manager, Mediterranean Beach Hotel.

In October 2014, the optimistic sentiment collapsed following the unfortunate incidents in Ukraine and the dramatic drop of the Rouble’s value against

the Euro, he suggested.

“This year again, we have recently come across the bankruptcy of Transaero that supported Cyprus as a destination with many flights to both Larnaca and Paphos airports. In parallel [the airline’s] direct connection with the biggest Russian tour operator for Cyprus, Biblio Globus, creates further issues. Biblio Globus was bringing more than 70 percent of all Russian tourists to Cyprus and due to this unexpected situation, things are becoming more difficult,” Kilanis analysed.

Despite the unpredictability aspect, Spyros Spyrou, head of tourism sector, Limassol Chamber of Commerce & Industry, advised that the city has not experienced a sharp decline in Russian visitors and this is probably due to the fact that travellers who choose Limassol are more affluent compared to the ones who opt for other areas of Cyprus, thus, they are affected the least when it comes to travel and tourism.

25 NOVEMBER 2015

LIMASSOL SHORT BREAK CONNECTING THE DOTS A challenge tourism professionals are urging to address is air connectivity, which as Stylianou Michaelidou mentioned, is the primary obstacle that needs to be dealt with at national level for any region to be able to attract more visitors.

Kilanis elaborated, “One of the major issues and difficulties that we face as a destination is the number of flights, especially during winter. Whatever we do or whatever ideas will be implemented in winter so to fight seasonality, if flights and air connectivity are not improved we cannot talk about overcoming this problem.”

CHANGE AHEAD As a whole, Limassol receives around 12 – 13 percent of total arrivals to Cyprus and this is primarily because of the lower number of beds available compared to other regions, Stylianou Michaelidou observed.

Spyrou also identified that com-

25 NOVEMBER 2015

pared to Ayia Napa, Protaras or Paphos, Limassol boasts a lower room count.

“Given the small capacity, Limassol cannot grow considerably in arrivals unless new hotels open up. Therefore, this is

the first and main prerequisite. The next question is what kind of hotels and what kind of tourism do we want in Limassol.

Ideally we would prefer to attract investors that would continue to invest for

the upper part of the tourism market, as I believe this is the clientele Limassol appeals to the most,” he reiterated.

Stylianou Michaelidou confirmed that the private sector is working on this, investing in upgrades and developments.

“New hotels are at the planning stage, existing properties are undergoing significant renovations, new restaurants are opening and generally there is a vibrant interest in developing tourist projects in the area.”

One such venture is Limassol Marina. Having opened in June 2014, the destination is now visited by an average of 2,000 to 3,000 people per day during the week with the figure touching 5,000 over weekends. This was disclosed by Sophia Paraskeva, marketing and public relations manager, Limassol Marina, who commented that the management was confident in the product long before its completion, and expectations were more than vindicated.

“We were always optimistic about the traffic we could generate and the

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SHORT BREAK LIMASSOL impact this development would have on Limassol as a whole. Nevertheless, it was hard to envisage this level of response until it became a tangible reality,” she stressed.

Paraskeva took pride in the fact that

tourism offering.

She professed, “It has raised the bar and is enticing investments in the area, international property buyers, yacht owners, captains, crew and tourists from all corners of the

WORDS TO ACTIONS

the popular hotspot has changed the image of both Limassol as well as Cyprus as it continues to attract various reputed businesses further improving the calibre of the Mediterranean island’s

world. [...] The benefits have been immeasurable. We have a new point of reference, a development that exhibits the best of what we are capable of and can offer here in Cyprus.”

ception has to change.

“We need to sharpen Limassol’s image and create an identity for Limassol, which could easily be communicated and understood. The upgrading of the

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The pending issue spotted by Jochen Niemann, general manager, Londa Beach Hotel, is that the city is not wellknown as a holiday resort and this per-

city needs to continue, especially the tourist area where the majority of our hotels are. In order to attract more visitors, we need to create demand, something similar to what Dubai is doing but of course on a smaller scale by adding

more landmarks,” he explained.

Along the same lines, Stephanie Lambouri, marketing and public relations manager, Ajax Hotel, noted that Limassol, and Cyprus in general, has to put forward its values and attractions mainly through more targeted marketing strategies, in order to attract tourists. “[We need] more promotion to nearby destinations, more exposure, less talking and more actions. We have to spend and invest our money more wisely. Also we have to be open to any new ideas and develop a long-term powerful strategy, in order to beat the competition from other countries.”

In addition, Spyrou called for aligned marketing and brand management, adding that this is something that Limassolians have started working on, having adopted the slogan Energetic Limassol to show that the city is a place full of energy and happy, welcoming people.

Stylianou Michaelidou concluded, “We believe in our tourist product, and we are confident that it differentiates Limassol from other regions on the island, not only because of the new developments but also because of the distinct cosmopolitan atmosphere of the destination.”  25 NOVEMBER 2015

ACCOMMODATION NEWS IHG Reinforces Presence in Germany

New Radisson Blu Hotel Announced in Moscow

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nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has signed four Holiday Inn Express hotels in Germany in four key cities.

The newly-constructed 163-room Holiday Inn Express Wuppertal – Hauptbahnhof will open in 2017; Holiday Inn Express Hannover City - Hauptbahnhof and Holiday Inn Express Frankfurt City – Westend will also launch in 2017 with a total of 289 units; and the 158key Holiday Inn Express Trier is slated for a 2018 debut.

Martin Bowen, associate vice president, development, Germany, IHG, noted, “Holiday Inn Express is one of the largest and fastest growing brands in the industry and it is going from strength to strength in Germany.”

he Russian capital is preparing to welcome a new addition to its upper-upscale hotel portfolio, with Radisson Blu Olympiysky Hotel, Moscow due to open in early 2017.

The property will be located north of the city centre, by the Olympic sports arenas, and is envisaged as a part of a 75,000m2 multifunctional development.

Besides 379 rooms, it will offer a restaurant, bar, panorama floor, 1,750m2 of meeting and events space and a 1,050m2 spa and leisure facility.

Guests will be able to walk up to the Russian Army Theatre, Nikulin Circus and the Moscow Cathedral Mosque, and the city’s three airports are all within a radius of 50km.

Six Senses Debuts in Renowned Winter Destination

Hotel de la Paix

The Ritz-Carlton Adds Historic Swiss Hotel

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he Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has penned a deal with the Manz family in Switzerland to add boutique property Hotel de la Paix in Geneva as a partner hotel to the company’s portfolio, effective from December 16.

Nestled on the banks of Lake Geneva, the establishment is up for a relaunch in late 2016 as The Ritz Carlton, Hotel de la Paix Geneva. Dating back to 1865, the hotel hosted the international arbitration tribunal for the Alabama Claims, and has welcomed numerous celebrities including Princess Grace Kelly of Monaco.

“It is an honour to bring The RitzCarlton experience to Switzerland and to partner with the highly regarded Manz family,” said Herve Humler, president, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company.

25 NOVEMBER 2015

Radisson Blu Olympiysky Hotel, Moscow

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ix Senses Hotels Resorts Spas will mark its first residential project in Europe with the December opening of Six Senses Residences Courchevel, in the French Alps.

Located in the heart of the world-renowned ski resort, the property features 53 apartments, a Six Senses Spa and exclusive private ski-in-ski-out concierge service.

The establishment boasts one- to three-bedroom apartments and up to five-bedroom duplex penthouse suites with private treatment rooms. Its 10 penthouses cover 100m2 and offer panoramic mountain views, up to five bedrooms, specially configured wine cellars and triple aspect balconies.

Six Senses Residences Courchevel

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NEWS ACCOMMODATION Slovenia Lures More Foreign Tourists Kempinski Adds Historic Venetian Property

Cheval Residences Plans Regional Expansion

San Clemente Palace Hotel

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empinski has assumed the management of San Clemente Palace Hotel, in Venice.

Located just 10 minutes by boat from the famous St Mark’s Square, the property is ideally situated for exploring the European city.

After the winter season, the historic 190-room hotel will reopen its doors as San Clemente Palace Kempinski Venice on March 24, 2016.

The establishment has an impressive heritage and modern Venetian design and is set among a centuries-old park, antique courtyards and monastery buildings. It features three restaurants, three bars, heated swimming pool, a tennis court, gym, driving range and six convention rooms accommodating up to 400 people.

heval Residences Group, London’s luxury serviced apartment specialist is poised to adapt its existing business model from the UK to a wider remit, in particular the GCC. The company that runs eight addresses in the UK capital, participated in the recently-held Serviced Apartment Summit MEA in Dubai as platinum sponsor to highlight the growth of the serviced hotel apartment sector in comparison to regular hotel rooms in the Middle East and Africa.

As Mohammed Al Marzooqi, managing director, Cheval Property Management, noted, with over 30 years of experience, the firm is in a prime position to expand its brand internationally and is looking forward to developing key contacts within the region.

25 NOVEMBER 2015

AIR NEWS Lufthansa to fly to San Jose

Brussels Airlines Deepens African Reach

B L San Jose

ufthansa will introduce nonstop services between Frankfurt and San Jose, California on April 29, 2016, launching Europe’s first nonstop itinerary to Silicon Valley.

The route will be served five times per week with an Airbus A340-300 aircraft, offering passengers a choice of seats across three classes.

The San Jose metropolitan region is home to around 3.3 million people and lies in the heart of Silicon Valley, the major site of high-tech start-ups and corporations, as well as several leading companies in the biotech, pharmaceuticals and medical sectors.

It is also an attractive tourist destination, being close to Big Sur, Yosemite National Park, Lake Tahoe and other key attractions. In addition, San Francisco is just 70km away.

Aer Lingus Takes Off from Liverpool

russels Airlines has added yet another destination to its network with the launch of four weekly services to Accra, Ghana.

“Business and leisure travel to Ghana is increasing,” confirmed Bernard Gustin, CEO, Brussels Airlines. “This is why Accra definitely deserves a place in the growing network of Brussels Airlines. With our direct flights we also respond to the large demand of the Ghanaian diaspora in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, the UK and the US.” In addition, the Belgian carrier has also doubled frequency on its Lomé, Togo route to four weekly flights.

Austrian Airlines Spreads Wings to Colombo

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25 NOVEMBER 2015

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Colombo

er Lingus has returned to Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LJLA) with the arrival of its first service from Dublin.

The airline now operates 15 flights per week between Liverpool and the Irish capital on a 174-seat Airbus A320 aircraft with flight times throughout working days. In addition, passengers can also take advantage of convenient connections to North American destinations, including New York, New Jersey, Boston, Chicago, Washington, Orlando, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Hartford, Connecticut and Toronto.

As Keith Butler, chief commercial officer, Aer Lingus, pinpointed, the carrier now also has access to what he described as the fastest growing transatlantic gateway in Europe.

ustrian Airlines launched once weekly nonstop flights from Vienna to Colombo, Sri Lanka, the carrier’s third destination in the Indian Ocean after the Maldives and Mauritius.

The destination will only be offered during the winter season as it is primarily aimed at leisure travellers.

“We are the only European airline in the German-speaking region of Europe which flies directly to Colombo. For this reason, we also hope to attract passengers from Germany and Switzerland”, explained Andreas Otto, chief commercial officer, Austrian Airlines.

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NEWS AIR Thessaloniki to Welcome S7

New Long-haul Cabins in Air France Fleet

New seats in Air France’s premium economy class

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ir France introduced its new long-haul cabins on five additional routes from Paris-Charles de Gaulle, including Buenos Aires, Montevideo, Boston, Bangalore and Osaka.

These cabins are available aboard Boeing 777-200 aircraft, which also feature completely redesigned seats in premium economy and economy class.

By March 2016, the company will have a longhaul fleet of 30 aircraft serving 28 destinations worldwide.

7 Airlines is to further expand its presence in Greece with the addition of a new Moscow – Thessaloniki service.

Effective May 1, 2016, the Russian carrier will offer three weekly frequencies between the cities on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.

As Igor Veretennikov, group director, strategy, S7 Airlines, noted, the summer timetable also includes flights to Athens.

“Now our passengers can conveniently travel to north Greece, including to popular Halkidiki resorts.

In the summer 2016 schedule we will offer several new flight destinations,” added Veretennikov.

Flybe Boosts Presence in Birmingham with Rotterdam Flights

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irBaltic has introduced a number of new winter holiday destinations, including Verona and Salzburg, to its route map.

The additional itineraries complement the Latvian carrier’s existing flights to the Alps, the High Tatras and the Caucasus.

To meet demand, the airline has also doubled the number of seats on the Riga – Berlin route, while at the same time shortening the travel time. The link between Stockholm and the Baltic capitals have also been further strengthened with up to five daily frequencies.

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Rotterdam

Verona

airBaltic Improves Winter Services

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lybe will launch a twice-daily year-round service between Birmingham and Rotterdam The Hague Airport on September 5,

2016.

William Pearson, director, aviation development Birmingham Airport, commented, “As our largest carrier, we are extremely pleased to see Flybe adding Rotterdam to its route network from Birmingham, particularly with a doubledaily service to allow business travellers to return on the same day.”

Flybe is hailed as the largest scheduled airline for Birmingham Airport as per the number of air traffic movements.

25 NOVEMBER 2015

RENDEZVOUS TRAVEL TRADE EUROPE: How important is medical tourism for Turkey?

DIDEM ÖZYIĞIT: Medical tourism is a key tourism sector as Turkey has become a hub in the Mediterranean and Middle East regions. [The country] is like a rising star which has recently welcomed large numbers of arrivals, especially from the Gulf region, Iraq, Syria, Libya and Morocco.

Q & A with

making phase as well as through [liaisons] with clinics in Turkey, Middle East, India and Dubai.

They first say that Turkey is prompt to respond to questions, [and] friendly correspondences and professionalism [are also on top].

The other differences are that Turkey offers American and European standard medical care plus five-star quality hotels with concierge services. During their hospital stay, our patients feel as if they were in a hotel [...]. They trust our processes and Turkish hospitals are very good at infection control in general. We choose our hospitals according to infection control processes [...].

Turkey has very affordable prices compared to [many] countries when taking into consideration the services with the quality of standards.

I am proud to say that [having been] in this business for years, we have improved in serving interna-

Didem Özyiğit

GENERAL MANAGER, HARMONIA SURGICAL TOURISM, ISTANBUL

TRAVEL TRADE EUROPE: Who comes to Turkey for medical reasons and what kind of treatments are popular?

DIDEM ÖZYIĞIT: When we talk about Turkey as a whole, the country attracts visitors from Europe, the Gulf region, Africa and the Middle East thanks to its thermal waters, advanced medical facilities and affordable prices. We are in a strategic location serving all the world with different attractions in medical tourism as well. The most important factor is to use all sources to promote our country overseas as well as to those who have not yet discovered Turkey’s medical tourism sector.

The most popular treatments include hair transplantation, eye laser surgeries, cosmetic dentistry and aesthetic surgeries. However, for the Middle East, Turkey has been a great attraction for reconstructive surgeries, heart bypasses, kidney and heart transplantations.

TRAVEL TRADE EUROPE: How do you promote Turkey's medical tourism potential to your key target markets?

DIDEM ÖZYIĞIT: We, as Harmonia, are targeting Europeans, Americans and Canadians as well as English-speaking expatriates in the Gulf region, Middle East and Africa. We have had a good number of patients in the past years.

Most of them are loyal and come back every one or two years with their treatment plans to us. Having been a boutique service provider in the medical tourism field for several years, we do not want to change our business style and do not aim to have huge number of patients and expand our business in size. Instead, we try to improve our business quality every day to expand our business through word of mouth.

25 NOVEMBER 2015

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MEDICAL TOURISM IS A KEY TOURISM SECTOR WITH GLOBAL MEDICAL TOURISM ON THE RISE, TURKEY’S STATUS IS ALSO GROWING IN THE FIELD. DIDEM ÖZYIĞIT, GENERAL MANAGER, HARMONIA SURGICAL TOURISM, ISTANBUL, DISCUSSES THE REASONS BEHIND THE PHENOMENON

tional patients from all around the world with Turkish Airlines now flying directly to almost everywhere in the world. This in turn has increased demand for our country, [turning it into] one of the easiest locations to come for surgery.

So far, we have achieved most of what we aimed for so far.

TRAVEL TRADE EUROPE: Why should someone choose Turkey for their treatment or medical intervention?

DIDEM ÖZYIĞIT: Turkey has a specific atmosphere when we compare it to the Middle East or the UAE, and this opinion is based on patient reviews.

I receive many patient reviews comparing countries during the decision-

Istanbul

17

NEWS AIR Austrian Airlines Ups Iranian Network

Lufthansa to Link Munich and Tehran

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L

ufthansa revealed plans to fly once again from Munich to Tehran, effective from April 14, 2016.

The German airline will operate three weekly flights to the Iranian capital using an Airbus A330-300 aircraft. The new route will complement the carrier’s existing operation to the Middle Eastern destination from Frankfurt and Austrian Airlines’ services from Vienna.

“Following the reduction of sanctions and the reactivation of economic ties related to these, we expect a strong increase in demand for business travel.

For cultural travellers, Iran will become increasingly interesting as well,” said Thomas Klühr, board member, Lufthansa.

The route between Munich and Tehran was previously offered between April 2004 and the summer of 2006.

Tehran

ustrian Airlines is expanding its operation to Iran, offering one additional daily flight to Tehran from March 11, 2016.

Austria’s national carrier will be departing from Vienna up to two times a day for the Iranian capital, and deliver a day itinerary to the existing night route.

“We are receiving clear signals of a revival in economic relations between Austria and Iran from the business community and political decision makers,” noted Andreas Otto, chief commercial officer, Austrian Airlines.

Eurowings Adds to Vienna Operations

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urowings introduced a number of routes from Vienna Airport.

Newly launched destinations include Barcelona, London Stansted Airports and Palma de Mallorca.

Emulating Germanwings’ model, the low-cost carrier has recently begun services to European destinations with plans to commence flights to long-haul locations in the future. Eurowings comprises Lufthansa’s new point-to-point brand.

Biarritz

Air France Resumes Popular Domestic Route

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tarting March 27, 2016, Air France will relaunch services between Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Biarritz.

The route, which will be operated by Embraer 170 aircraft with 76 seats, will add yet another option to the six daily frequencies offered by HOP! Air France between Biarritz and Paris Orly International Airport in summer 2016.

During the winter season, Air France and HOP! Air France are operating 473 weekly flights from southwest France, including 61 weekly frequencies from Biarritz.

25 NOVEMBER 2015

AGENTS NEWS TUI: Stronger as One

T

he past 12 months have been an extraordinary time for son, driven by more affluent consumers. industry according the Association of British The summer wasbranding hailed aswill very challenging, yet the UI Group unveiledUK’s its travel international one- of to Dutch subsidiary Arke, which delivered the first period unified enable us to offer our cusTravelwill Agent annualmarket research among report indicated variousa incidents uncertainties did Anot Brand campaign which see (ABTA)’s all its major roll-out asUK 130customers travel agencies merged with a thattomers consistentand holiday experience. unified aimed at providing clear picture their holidaydesign. habits. deter Britons from taking European tour operators unifiedaunder a TUI ofnew company globalholidays. brand will also significantly enhance our members strong late market was revealed which master brand by 2017. Positive signs were witnessed with the Erikorganisation’s Friemuth, chief marketing A officer, TUI booking competitiveness in also the important onlinesugsegment reporting increasedwith year-on-year andcommented, a strong summer sea- angests a positive outlook 2016.

The initiative officially commenced the shift sales Group, “Creating internationally andfor help us modernise our brand.”

T

Overseas Weddings Gain Momentum

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estination wedding website, MarryAboad recorded 30 percent more visitors until October than in the corresponding period in 2014.

MarryAbroad promotes venues and planners worldwide to engaged couples, who are then free to make direct enquiries. In recent months, interest in members’ products and services have escalated, with a total of 600 enquiries delivered this year - a record-breaking amount of leads for the company in its nine-year history, and 30 more than in 2014.

The original info-site has also witnessed an increase of 28 percent in total page views.

25 NOVEMBER 2015

19

TRAVEL TALK

OLIVIER JANKOVEC Director general, Airports Council International Europe

This makes for a mostly positive scenario for passenger traffic

Aviation tax […] puts Germany at a competitive disadvantage

“Domestic consumption is now the main driver for economic growth in Europe, on the back of continued low oil prices. This is particularly the case in the Eurozone, where GDP growth is steady – although still weak.

This makes for a mostly positive scenario for passenger traffic in the months ahead. However, shrinking exports remains a risk due to the weakness of emerging economies – meaning freight traffic is unlikely to improve from what has been a flat year so far.”

“Aviation tax must be abolished, it puts Germany at a competitive disadvantage. Now, the 8,000 jobs at airberlin are being threatened further by the actions of the authorities in attempting to withdraw our ability to codeshare with our long-standing partner Etihad Airways. airberlin is appealing to the federal government to [...] to approve the codeshare flights operated by airberlin. The government must ultimately arrive at a permanent solution in its discussions with the UAE, and not – at airberlin’s expense.”

STEFAN PICHLER CEO, airberlin

Dealing with significant challenges is never a one man show

We do not offer below three-star on our package holidays

DANIEL REILLY CEO, JetsGo Holidays

“The whole team at JetsGo Holidays is looking forward to commencing our new holidays to Mallorca from Manchester Airport [in summer 2016]. We offer a range of three- to five-star accommodation in all of the main resorts on the island from self-catering apartments to luxury allinclusive resorts. We do not offer below three-star on our package holidays to ensure a higher standard for customers. With our transparent pricing and friendly service, we hope passengers enjoy their holidays as much as we do putting them together.”

YIANNIS PARASCHIS CEO, Athens International Airport

“I feel deeply honoured with the [Airport Chief Executive of the Year] distinction [from the Centre of Asia Pacific Aviation], [..].

It emphasises that, even going through the most severe conditions, a company governed efficiently and driven, at the same time, by the firm commitment of a highly capable and dedicated team of professionals, may achieve fantastic results. […]

Dealing with significant challenges is never a one man show. This recognition belongs to the Athens International Airport and the total of 13,000 employees […]”.

TRAVEL TALK IS YOUR SPACE – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories.

We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, frustrations and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel

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25 NOVEMBER 2015

TRAVEL CHANNELS

Social Media Transforms Destination Branding Over 60 tourism ministers and leaders from Facebook, Expedia, Melia Hotels, Eurostar and the World Travel & Tourism Council met in London to discuss how market changes and consumer empowerment has fully shifted destination branding.

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articipants recalled that the current social media landscape requires countries and cities to invest further in understanding and engaging visitors via social media.

“Today, consumers have access to more information, more choices, and more opportunities to voice their opinions and can be the whistle-blowers for unethical practices or the biggest ambassadors for destinations and service providers,” stressed Taleb Rifai, secretary general, World Tourism Organization, adding that as branding becomes an ever more complex challenge, it requires adjusted structures, policies and strategies.

The Ritz-Carlton Berlin Recognised for Sustainability

Swiss International Air Lines to Fly Olympic Teams

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wiss International Air Lines is further expanding its involvement in sports as the company was named the official airline partner of the Swiss Olympic and Paralympic teams.

One particular highlight of the partnership will be 2016’s Olympic Summer Games in Rio de Janeiro, for which the carrier will be offering special flights.

Under the agreement, the airline will support both teams in their air travel to and from major sporting events abroad, including the summer games in Brazil, operating two special itineraries, one before and one after the programme.

UNWTO and EBRD Partner for Inclusive Tourism

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he Ritz-Carlton, Berlin has successfully combined sustainability and social commitment with luxurious comfort and personal service.

From the property’s own honey bees and a hotel-run organic acre to a range of different recycling and energy-saving measures, the five-star superior establishment demonstrates its high level of commitment to sustainable practices.

Among the hotel’s initiatives are green food, recycling for a cause and energy saving.

For its exemplary initiatives, the property was certified for the fifth time running in accordance with the high standards of the European Eco-Management and Audit Scheme in October.

The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin

25 NOVEMBER 2015

Taleb Rifai

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orld Tourism Organization (UNWTO) joined forces with the European Bank of Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to foster inclusive and sustainable tourism.

The deal provides for the inclusion of youth in the sector through training and employment, resource and energy efficiency, and capacity building.

“The tourism sector is making a fundamental contribution to the current economic recovery and can play a leading role in advancing inclusive development […]. By partnering with [EBRD], we will be able to create opportunities to generate more and better employment opportunities while supporting the transition of the sector to a more sustainable path” said Taleb Rifai, secretary general, UNWTO.

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WHO’S MOVED

CHRIS MOTTERSHEAD

CHRIS SILCOCK

22

Mottershead has valuable international experience with the company

Gilberto Lopez Meyer has been named senior vice president for safety and flight operations at the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Based in Montreal, his immediate priorities will be to continue the push towards predictive safety analysis with the Global Aviation Data Management initiative, enhance IATA’s auditing programmes and to support the International Civil Aviation Organization’s efforts in improving aircraft tracking capabilities.

Lopez Meyer is joining IATA from the Mexican Civil Aviation Authority which he has twice led as director general.

He started his career as a pilot at Mexicana Airlines and also has strong experience in airport operations.

Chris Silcock has been chosen as executive vice president and chief commercial officer at Hilton Worldwide.

Based at the company’s headquarters in McLean, US, Silcock will lead the global commercial team and oversee sales, revenue management, regional marketing and e-commerce, as well as reservations and customer care.

Silcock, who has been with Hilton Worldwide for nearly two decades, most recently served as head of sales and revenue management. Prior to that, he was also involved in online and regional marketing and has held a number of regional revenue and project roles across the business, as well as several positions at properties. Silcock began his career with Hilton Worldwide as a catering and banquet waiter at Hilton Watford.

Adam Jupp has been appointed to the newly created role of head of external affairs at Manchester Airport.

Jupp will oversee the work of the press office, public affairs and community teams.

He joins the team from Manchester Evening News, where he was employed as associate editor, spearheading the business and what is on content of the publication in print and online as well as in Greater Manchester Business Week.

Prior to arriving in the Northwest, Jupp was chief reporter at NCJ Media, working across the Newcastle Chronicle, Journal and Sunday Sun. He led a series of key campaigns for the newspapers, including one which called for the scrapping of air passenger duty, in partnership with Newcastle Airport.

Chris Mottershead continues as the new managing director of Thomas Cook UK & Ireland.

He joined the UK business in April this year as business development director and was named commercial director in July. His pedigree in international travel has seen him hold a variety of senior roles in the travel industry, including managing director of TUI Russia & CIS, CEO of First Choice Canada, managing director of TUI UK and president and CEO of North American Leisure Group at Airtours.

GILBERTO LOPEZ MEYER

ADAM JUPP

25 NOVEMBER 2015

PHOTO ALBUM

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British business tourism buyers celebrate Halloween in Londonderry

FC Barcelona players and their family members at PortAventura

Brussels Airport introduced a new easy way to serve thirsty passengers

The Baden wine region and the German Wine Institute crowned the area's new German Wine Queen

25 NOVEMBER 2015

23

NEWS & EVENTS ETC Addresses Regional Challenges

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n the occasion of the 90th general meeting of the European Travel Commission (ETC) and in the presence of members from national tourism organisations, support to European institutions was expressed for protecting the values of the region: solidarity, inclusiveness, freedom of mobility and tolerance.

The meeting addressed concerns regarding challenging situations such as the current humanitarian refugee crisis, armed conflicts and the destruction of cultural heritage with the aim to form a common voice of unity.

EVENTS INTERNATIONAL LUXURY TRAVEL MARKET Cannes, France November 30 – December 3 www.iltm.com Hailed as the ultimate global meeting for those involved in luxury travel.

Santas Walk for Charity in Edinburgh

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dinburgh will host the charity event Santa Fun Run & Walk on December 13, with participants dressed as Santas and Santa’s little helpers walking 2.5km to aid children’s charity and even organiser, When You Wish Upon a Star.

Some 3,500 participants aged between just a few

months to 96-year-old are expected.

Manuela Calchini, regional partnerships director, VisitScotland, enthused, “Edinburgh is a spectacular place to visit during the winter festival and the Santa Fun Run & Walk in the beautiful West Princes Street Gardens adds to the colourful activities on show.”

4TH GLOBAL SUMMIT ON CITY TOURISM

Latvia at TT Warsaw 2015

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or the first time ever, the Latvian tourism industry will be represented at TT Warsaw, between November 26 – 28.

The Latvian Tourism Development Agency’s stand will host the teams of the country’s four provinces.

Anita Priedīte, tourism market expert, Latvian Tourism Development Agency, underlined that even though Poland has never been one of the organisation’s priorities, the number of Poles travelling to Latvia is gradually increasing.

Valencia Transforms Into Sports Haven

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alencia welcomed athletes and sports fans from across the globe to a number of high-profile events throughout October and November.

Among the activities was the 25th annual half marathon which attracted nearly 13,000 runners, and the star-studded Open 500 tournament which featured some of the world’s highest-ranking tennis players. The sporting festival will also present the Trinidad Alfonso Valencia Marathon which boasts two segments; a 10km run and a 40km challenge, with over 24,000 participants.

Riga: World Choir Centre of 2017

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he Latvian capital will welcome the third European Choir Games along with the Grand Prix of Nations between July 16 – 23, 2017. The song festival is expected to gather over 200 choirs representing 8,000 singers globally, marking the second time for the country to stage the event.

Günter Titsch, president, INTERKULTUR, the organiser of the contest, noted, ”Following the 2014 World Choir Games in Riga, countless choirs from all over the world cherish kind memories of the beauty and hospitality of the city.”

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Marrakech, Morocco December 14 – 15 www.unwto.org International experts in city tourism, representatives of local authorities, municipalities and international and regional associations will discuss challenges and create a platform of exchange of ideas.

THE ADVENTURE TRAVEL SHOW London, UK January 23 – 24, 2016 www.adventureshow.com Inspiring itineraries and off the beaten track experiences will take centre stage at the programme.

3RD ANNUAL AFRICA HOTEL EXPANSION SUMMIT Lagos, Nigeria January 28 – 29, 2016 africa.hotelandresortsummit.com For the third consecutive year, Noppen is organising the Africa Hotel Expansion Summit, bringing together hotel chains, developers and architects with hospitality institutions.

25 NOVEMBER 2015

Travel Trade Luxury is a worldwide luxury travel trade publication.

Travel Trade Luxury is brought out monthly. It is published both in digital and printed format.

Its digital readership is based on the 150,000 readers which the Travel Trade Publications platform enjoys. Readers include agents specialising in individual luxury travel, group luxury travel, travel counsellors and advisors, luxury travel DMCs and all other luxury products and services.

Travel Trade Luxury is also distributed to the major travel trade exhibitions and specialised luxury shows and events.

Travel Trade Luxury contains informative current news on luxury destinations and products.

It also includes specialised luxury destination reports with in-depth analyses of issues related to the luxury segment.