/ttc-206-WTM-2011-web-ingles

International Tourism Publication founded in 1996 Year XI • No. 206 • November 2011 • Europe Edition • www.traveltradecaribbean.com • ISSN 1724 - 5370 Poste italiane Spa - Sped. in Abb. Post. D.L. 353/2003 Conv. in L. 27/02/2004, no. 46 Art. 1 comma 1, DCB Milano - Prezzo per copia EURO 0,25

Expected Increase in Number of British Visitors to Cuba Interview with Her Excellency Mrs. Dianna Melrose, Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Cuba.

THE UK HAS BEEN CUBA’S second tourist market since 2005. Statistics for January to August 2011 show that the number of British visitors to the island registered a 7.7% growth as compared to the same period previous

year. Her Excellency Mrs. Dianna Melrose, Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Cuba, granted an interview to TTC, on the occasion the World Travel Market, to refer to this market.

2

Travel and Tourism is one of the pillars for the economy of Trinidad and Tobago Interview to the Hon. Dr. Jennifer Jones-Kernahan, Ambassador of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago in Cuba.

12 Investments in Mexican Caribbean

6

Turks and Caicos.

A Tonic in Blue

10

Varadero Novelties

14

Common Policy on Tourism in Eastern Caribbean

TTC Catalogue Summary 2012

18

THE ORGANIZATION of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) announced the establishment of a common tourism policy for its member countries. The project covers joint plans for safety, transportation, development of products, customs and immigration procedures, and environmental and cultural sustainability.

Last August 1, the free circulation between the bloc’s member states started being implemented, except for Monserrat. Starting that date, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts-Nevis, St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines allow the citizens of the OECS to enter their territories without a visa. ■

Three from Dominican Republic

Grenada.

New Air Connections in the Caribbean

Nautical activities and nature tourism will be boosted at WTM Fair.

19 22

Cuba Expects a Successful Winter Season THIS INTERVIEW given to TTC by José Manuel Bisbé, marketing director of the Cuban Ministry of Tourism, is about the forecasts, projections and strategies regarding the Cuban tourist product.

4

2

TRAVEL TRADE CARIBBEAN • YEAR XI • NO. 206 • NOVEMBER 2011

Expected Increase in Number of British Visitors to Cuba

In your opinion, what are the perspectives in terms of the flow of British tourists to Cuba?

With Virgin Atlantic adding a third weekly flight to Havana from November, we believe that the numbers of holidaymakers will continue to rise.

It would be interesting to know about the incidence of British tourism on the tourist flows to the Caribbean.

Detailed and accurate statistics are not readily available. The website www.onecaribbean.org publishes figures of international arrivals to the Caribbean and the Yucatán.

Other aspects you wish to speak about to TTC’s readers.

With so many tourists visiting every year, providing a first-class consular service to British nationals is one of my top priorities. ■

Interview with Her Excellency Mrs. Dianna Melrose, Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Cuba.

Your Excellency, what is your opinion on the fact that since 2005 the United Kingdom has been Cuba’s second tourist market?

Cuba is seen as a holiday destination with sun, sea, sand, friendly people and a unique and interesting history and culture. It is competitively priced compared to the rest of the Caribbean and Yucatán peninsula, and with direct flights from the UK, it is easy to see why there are so many British visitors.

What are the British’s main motives for traveling to the island?

For a combination of sun, salsa, culture and history. All-inclusive packages are very popular.

St. Lucia Makes Debut in Health Tourism

T

Town of Sufriere, home of the Soufriere Foundation.

he first Health and Wellbeing retreat of the Eastern Caribbean island of St. Lucia will open on November 17 in the town of Soufriere, with the backing of the Soufriere Foundation and the St. Lucia Tourism Board. The director of tourism of St. Lucia, Louis Lewis, affirmed that the incursion into the new market niche was a strategic action following international trends.

Soufriere, to the south of the island, is the venue of the famous Pitons peaks, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and which feature one of the few volcanoes in the world whose crater can be reached by car, where therapeutic thermal baths await visitors. ■

Tourism Grows in Costa Rica THE MOST RECENT data from the Costa Rican Institute of Tourism indicate that during the first half of 2011 a total of 1.2 million tourists visited Costa Rica, a figure that surpasses by 6.5% the 1.12 million registered in the same period in 2010.

Minister of Tourism Allan Flores highlighted that one of the points in favor have been the new flights by airlines like Jet Blue, Air Berlin and Delta, without forgetting the natural and cultural wealth of the country. The minister recognized that there are still many things to be improved in the field of sustainability and the attraction of other market niches like that of congresses and conventions, for which a large convention center will be built in the future on the outskirts of San José. Tourism is one of Costa Rica’s principal economic activities, and every year the country is visited by close to 2.1 million tourists, which generates some two billion dollars. ■

Address Via Galileo Galilei, 47 20092 Cinisello Balsamo, Mi • Tel. 02 36649575 • Fax 02 36649576 • E-mail redazione.italia@traveltradecaribbean.com / commerciale.it@gmail.com • Printer Officina Grafica S.R.L. Via Della Meccanica, 8 Vigano Di Gaggiano 20083, Mi Honorary President Renzo Druetto • Principal Director Giuseppe Ferraris • Director Alfredo Rodríguez - director@traveltradecaribbean.com • Editorial Staff for Italy Tiziana Settanni - redazione.italia@traveltradecaribbean.com / ttc.italia@gmail.com / Tel.: +39 02 36540545 • Editorial Staff for Cuba Josefina Pichardo - redaccion@traveltradecaribbean.com • Digital News Services Frank Martín • Collaboration and Marketing Jesús Rodríguez - jrd@traveltradecaribbean.com / Ana Cecilia Herrera - anac@traveltradecaribbean.com / Maria E. Leyva - mariae.leyva@traveltradecaribbean.com / Orlando Ojeda - orlando.ojeda@traveltradecaribbean.com • E-mail italia@traveltradecaribbean.com • Web www.traveltradecaribbean.com • News Office for the Caribbean La Habana, Cuba / ttc.cuba@traveltradecaribbean.com • Contact and Information info@traveltradecaribbean.com Registered at the Milan Court under the number 166. 13/03/2002. Publicity 45%. Property of Travel Trade Caribbean S.R.L. Registry date at the Chamber of Commerce: 08/01/2001.

Registered in ROC Italia (registry of communications operators). Distributed through postal subscription. Cost of copy: 0.25 USD. Partial or total reproduction of the articles is forbidden without the express authorization of their authors, who have legal rights over them and are responsible for their contents.

4

TRAVEL TRADE CARIBBEAN • YEAR XI • NO. 206 • NOVEMBER 2011

Cuba Expects a Successful Winter Season Bisbé, have the forecasts for 2011 been fulfilled in relation to the recovery of the principal traditional issuing markets and the operations of some emerging markets?

A total of 2,064,229 tourist arrivals had been registered by the close of September, which represents an 8.4% growth as compared to the same period last year. This year we reached the two million visitors 32 days ahead of the date for 2010. To date, except in the case of Italy that closes with 99.5%, an important group of markets are reporting increases, especially Canada, France, Argentina and Russia.

It is important to point out that while we have worked to maintain and increase the quota of the traditional markets, actions have also been carried out in developing markets like Eastern Europe, Venezuela, Brazil, Colombia, Peru and Chile, which has had a positive influence on their performance, although work should continue in order to achieve better results. We also maintain the commitment in other more stable markets like Holland, the Nordic Countries, Portugal, Belgium, Switzerland, among others.

Which are the key projections the Cuban tourist sector has set itself for the 2011-2012 season?

For the winter season we have previewed increases or the start of air operations from several markets, among them Canada, Russia, Scandinavia, Mexico, Finland, Brazil and others. Important airlines like Cubana, Air France, Virgin Atlantic, Sunwing, West Jet, Air Transat, Copa, TACA and others are increasing the amount of frequencies.

Negotiations are also under way for air operations from Brazil and Central America, as well as a growth in visitors from Asian markets like China and South Korea.

For the next season we are estimating an 8 to 10% growth in the arrival of visitors to our country.

For some time Cuba has been drawing out a strategy to improve the quality of services; it would

Constantly raising the quality of our services is a permanent task for each one of the institutions that provide services to our visitors.

be interesting to know your opinion on the results achieved in that sense.

The quality continues being raised; our clients’ levels of satisfaction are high. We are working a great deal in the training of personnel, in the improvement of our product and in the creation of a tourist culture among our population. Each season is a new challenge and this is why we are intensely preparing for it; constantly raising the quality of our services is a permanent task for each one of the institutions that provide services to our visitors.

Are there plans for a growth in cruise operations for the next season?

For reasons alien to us this season we won’t have operations that were present the previous year like that of TUI’s Thomson Dreams and the Gemini, which achieved very high levels of satisfaction last year, and this implies a decrease of capacities in cruise ship operations. However, a better marketing of the Adriana cruise ship is expected, in addition to the traditional punctual stopovers by other ships and work is underway to concretize new operations.

What novelties will Cuba present at the World Travel Market?

Out destination is being strengthened with the new incorporation of high-standard rooms in Varadero, Cayo Santa María and Cayo Coco. The royal plants, the E hotels and other products designed for the most demanding clients are being positioned more in the different markets.

We have worked a lot this year in the updating of the hotel product, and the remodeling and repair of rooms. The non-hotel product is being increased and new options will be offered to our visitors.

We are going to give a big boost at the Fair to specialized tourism and nature tourism. For this we are expanding the reach our Ecotur travel agency, which is considerably expanding its catalogue of products with new incorporations we are sure will be of interest to the British market.

We have also worked a great deal to improve our offer of nautical activities: scuba diving, life on board, fishing and other modalities.

Our patrimonial cities are increasingly recovering their heritage and some of them, like Gibara, in Holguín, have joined the ones traditionally best known, like Trinidad, Camagüey, Santiago de Cuba, Remedios and, of course, Old Havana.

A group of important investments have been made in several of our airports.

Varadero’s air terminal is practically new and this will speed up the attention given to the passengers of our principal destination.

Measures are being taken to increase the available capacities for domestic air transportation.

Would you like to add any other aspect?

We have strongly prepared for the next winter season and we are sure it will be a success. Once again we will show Cuba as it is Authentic, we will transmit to our clients our joie de vivre and our hospitality and they will want to come back for more. Cuba will continue being a destination of health, peace and safety. ■

6

TRAVEL TRADE CARIBBEAN • YEAR XI • NO. 206 • NOVEMBER 2011

Experience the 50th Anniversary of the Bianca C in Grenada

F

or nearly 50 years, the “Titanic of the Caribbean”, the Bianca C, has rested on the ocean floor in Grenada’s coastal waters. October 24th, 2011 marked the 50th anniversary of the sinking of this massive ship. This once majestic cruise liner is iconic amongst the diving community and is considered one of the top 10 wreck sites in the world.

At 600ft, the Bianca C remains the largest and most impressive shipwreck in the Caribbean.

“October 24th will mark 50 years on Grenada’s ocean floor”, said director of tourism for the Grenada Board of Tourism, Simon Stiell. “When the Bianca C sank in 1961, our community rallied together to assist in rescue efforts. This year we’ll be paying tribute to those who helped get the crew and passengers to safety”.

have helped regenerate marine life in the area. In honor of the Bianca C, a replica of the “Christ of the Deep” statue was placed amongst those at the Underwater Sculpture Park. Costa Line gave the statue as a gift to the Government and people of Grenada in recognition of all that was done to rescue and host passengers and crew.

Grenada’s Underwater Sculpture Park.

A number of events took place in Grenada to commemorate the sinking. The community had the opportunity to view treasures retrieved from the Bianca C, along with photos and stories of those who assisted in the rescue efforts 50 years ago.

One of the top dive destinations in the Caribbean, Grenada is home to the world’s first Underwater Sculpture Park, found at Molinere Bay. Originally designed

by Jason de Caires Taylor, divers and snorkelers can float amongst dozens of beautiful sculptures that

ABOUT GRENADA BOARD OF TOURISM The Grenada Board of Tourism’s objective is to market and promote Grenada as a preferred year round Caribbean tourist destination, while providing technical and managerial support to the travel trade, industry partners and airlines. ■ www.grenadagrenadines.com Source: Grenada @ LMA

INVESTMENTS IN MEXICAN CARIBBEAN RIVIERA MAYA WILL HAVE 1,000 MORE HOTEL ROOMS AT THE CLOSE OF 2011 By the close of 2011 the Riviera Maya’s hotel plant will have 40,000 rooms with the start of operations of two new hotels and a Convention Center of the Paradisus chain, in addition to the recent opening of the City Express Hotel with more than 300 rooms.

MORE THAN 360 M PESOS INVESTED IN MARINA COZUMEL The National Fund for the Promotion of Tourism invested more than 360 million pesos during the last five years in Marina Cozu-

Cozumel Beach.

mel, in Quintana Roo, a project that will give a boost to the tourist offer in the Mexican Caribbean and will optimize Cozumel island’s maritime connections by establishing a corridor for cruise passengers landing there.

The investment makes it possible for the nautical complex to offer capacity to accommodate up to 333 vessels. Seventy-five lots are being considered for sale on 24 hectares, on which more than 1,600 lodgment units, commercial and recreational areas, public marina, commercial marina, seaside drive, streets for pedestrians and cyclists, and public spaces will be developed.

TRAVEL TRADE CARIBBEAN • YEAR XI • NO. 206 • NOVEMBER 2011

Cueto at WTM 2010.

Five Guinness Records for World’s Longest Cigar

W

ith more than half a century as a cigar maker, José Castelar “Cueto” has won five Guinness Records for the World’s Longest Cigar:

▶ 2001 – 11.04 meters ▶ 2003 – 14.86 meters ▶ 2005 – 20.41 meters ▶ 2008 – 45.38 meters ▶ 2011 – 81.80 meters The Morro-Cabaña Park’s La Triada shop, where the Cuban cigar maker works, has on exhibit in glass display cases his first records, and the last one is exhibited in eight parts, 10 meters each: a collection that per se is an attraction for tourists.

To make these cigars, Cueto uses leafs brought from tobacco plantations from Vuelta Abajo, Pinar del Río, where the best tobacco in the world is grown, a similar raw material used when making a traditional cigar. It has taken him approximately a week of continuous work to make each one of these prizewinning pieces.

This humble sexagenarian, who comes from a family of farmers, began making cigars at the age of 16 and has worked in prestigious Cuban factories where renowned brands like La Corona and Romeo y Julieta are produced. Today he proudly exhibits the certificates for his feats and his name, in golden letters, on the pages of the book of Guinness World Records. ■

Spread along 12 display cases of the Havana Morro-Cabaña Park fairgrounds, the cigar presented by Cueto at FITCuba 2011; it broke and certified the new Guinness Record for the World’s Longest Cigar.

7

8

TRAVEL TRADE CARIBBEAN • YEAR XI • NO. 206 • NOVEMBER 2011

The Best Meliá Cuba has to Offer

Interview with Silvano Stupar, Contracting Director of Meliá Hotels International’s Cuba Division.

How is Meliá’s plant in Cuba made up?

Ever since the opening of Sol Palmeras in Varadero, more than 20 years ago, we have been on an ascending path and today we have 25 hotels, which add up to more than 10,400 rooms. They are all four and five stars, stand out for their wide repertoire of services and are located in Cuba’s principal tourist regions.

Hence we have achieved an association between the Meliá brand and the Cuba destination, with which we are adding a new value, which tour operators and international visitors recognize.

Meliá has made public its intention of boosting the island’s culture by combining it with the sun and beach product, could you expand on this concept?

Cuba has an impressive amount of natural beauties. Other Caribbean destinations also have this. However, none of them has a cultural and patrimonial wealth like Cuba’s, which stands out in such diverse manifestations as music, cinema, theater, dance, literature, sports and visual arts. Cuba has cities with a unique charm and atmosphere, like Havana and Santiago de Cuba, also venues of important continental and international events.

Culture is unquestionably one of the country’s major attractions, an element that differentiates and distinguishes it in its geographical surroundings. This is why we have conceived, integrated and represented Cuban culture in our offer. This is reflected in the architecture, design, decoration, gastronomy and recreational options of our hotels, where the service and attention provided by the workers reveal the hospitality of the Cuban people.

What actions have you carried out to achieve this purpose?

We want our guests to enjoy the cultural and patrimonial values of the country in general and especially that of the different regions where we are present. Our hotels constantly have on display the works of outstanding Cuban contemporary visual artists. Moreover, the most authentic representatives of the best national music perform in our Habana Café, Turquino and Santiago Café party rooms. We are also closely collaborating with institutions like EGREM, the country’s most important recording studios, and the Paradiso agency to promote and market the Cuban cultural options. The national tour operators and travel agencies also offer a gamut of options to tour the island and combine cities and beaches, so that our guests can take advantage of the best Cuba has to offer: its natural and cultural heritage, and the people’s hospitality and joie de vivre.

What novelties is Meliá Cuba presenting at WTM 2011?

The United Kingdom is the second issuer of visitors for our hotels. That’s why it is so important to attend the WTM. Our participation in this tourist fair, one of the world’s principal shows, gives us the opportunity to have direct contact with tour operators, travel agencies, airlines and the specialized press to better perceive the interests and needs of the British market. This year we are presenting our proposal for families, adults only, weddings, honeymoons, scuba diving, couples, spa, golf, business and incentives. We are especially promoting our deluxe offer, represented by the Royal Service, present in the high-spectrum hotels like Paradisus and Meliá, in the city as well as in Varadero, Holguín and Cuba’s exclusive keys.

The Royal Service is conceived for those seeking to always stay at the highest level, to feel the exclusiveness and be surrounded by a superior comfort. Special rooms, very personalized attention, VIP amenities, private restaurant/bar, exclusive beach and swimming pool, beach and pool concierge service, pillow menu, and an elegant and refined environment distinguish the Royal Service, which we are sure will be well received by British travelers. ■

On the left side, Vincent Vanderpool, Bahamas’ Minister of Tourism and Aviation.

Bahamas leads Caribbean cruise business opportunities THE BAHAMAS Minister of Tourism and Aviation, Vincent Vanderpool, said the islands offers more opportunity to extract expenditure from cruise passengers than any other destination in the region. “When we look at the number of cruise visitors who come into the port of Nassau now, there is no other destination in this region that even comes close to what we estimate this year is going to be 2.4 million cruise passengers who come here in the port of Nassau,” he said.

Vanderpool pointed out that increased numbers alone are not the objective. Due to the implementation of the Cruise Ship Overnighting Act by Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham, cruise ships are not only bringing more people but their passengers are encouraged to spend more time on land. This is good for Bahamian businesses, he added. According to the Minister “Cruise passengers spend more time on land in the port of Nassau than any place else in this entire region.” ■

9

TRAVEL TRADE CARIBBEAN • YEAR XI • NO. 206 • NOVEMBER 2011

N

estled between Mexico and Guatemala on the Caribbean coast of Central America, Belize is one of the few remaining unspoiled places on earth: Spectacular natural attractions and a fascinating past – with glorious Maya civilizations, English buccaneers and mahogany cutters, African slaves and Spanish conquistadors.

Particularly, the Fort George Area, a peninsula ringed by Marine Parade Boulevard and Fort

Fort George Tourism Zone in Belize City

Street, is one of the most pleasant in Belize City. The Baron Bliss Memorial and Fort George Lighthouse stand guard over it all. The sea breeze can be pleasant, and you can glimpse cayes and ships offshore. Once you round the point, the road becomes Marine Parade and runs past the modern Radisson Fort George Hotel and Ma-

The Islazul Hotel Group, present throughout the Cuban archipelago, is becoming reasserted as one of the hotel chains with the widest coverage and diversity throughout Cuba.

rina – located on the Caribbean coast – and Memorial Park.

BELIZE TOURISM BOARD (BTB) The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) is a statutory body within the Ministry of Tourism, which represents a strategic partnership between government and the private sector. ■

www.islazul.cu

New hotels in Varadero

CLUB KAREY With a beautiful view of the 1.5 km long Varadero Canal, the majority of its houses have direct access to the beach. It has 130 rooms with AC, satellite TV, telephone, safety deposit box (additional cost) and refrigerator; two restaurants, one main buffet and other a la carte, specializing in international cuisine, a snack bar, beach restaurant, lobby bar and discotheque. It also has a gym, swimming pool for adults, massages, souvenir shop, taxi service, post office, pharmacy and money exchange.

CLUB TROPICAL Located by the beach shore, in the center of the city of Varadero, it operates under the All-Inclusive modality. Its 143 rooms, with AC and different facilities, are distributed in three blocks of rooms. Its facilities include two restaurants, lobby bar, snack bar, beach bar, a swimming pool that includes an area for children, nighttime and day entertainment, children’s mini club, non-motorized nautical sports, gym, money exchange, Internet, excursion sales desk, taxis, car and motorbike rental and crafts shop.

New hotels in Havana HOTEL PASEO HABANA Located a few steps away from Paseo Avenue, in El Vedado, this hotel is central and at the same time private. It has 30 rooms with AC, private bathroom, satellite TV, telephone and safety deposit box. Four of the rooms are designed for the handicapped. It also has a restaurant, cafeteria, shop, cybercafé and meeting room.

HOTEL SAN ALEJANDRO: Located on Avenida 31, with 79 spacious and welcoming rooms, it is very near to places like Tropicana Cabaret, the Havana Convention Center, the San Alejandro Academy of Fine Arts and the National Aquarium. Its facilities include a restaurant, cafeteria, shop, beauty parlor, games room and meeting room.

HOTEL TULIPÁN It is in the heart of the neighborhood of Nuevo Vedado and is excellent for relaxing and resting because of its welcoming atmosphere and spacious gardens. With 326 rooms, it also has a restaurant, cafeteria, shop, party rooms and meeting room.

HOTEL BELLA HABANA AEROPUERTO Also located in Nuevo Vedado, along Avenida Boyeros, this hotel has 84 rooms, a restaurant, cafeteria, shop, beauty parlor, post office and meeting room.

10

TRAVEL TRADE CARIBBEAN • YEAR XI • NO. 206 • NOVEMBER 2011

Grace Bay.

Turks and Caicos.

A Tonic in Blue T

he fallout from world-wide economic troubles has left most of us feeling anxious, stressed and grumpier than usual.

That's why choosing a holiday destination is more important than ever. The Turks & Caicos Islands offer a sun-drenched atmosphere of picturesque beaches, sparkling seas, superb food and lodging and a community known for their warm welcome and relaxed, peaceful lifestyle. Sounds like a tonic for the blues?

The beaches that line the TCI's 40 islands and cays are of fine ivory sand that some compare to sugar… in endlessly unbroken swathes.

In most places, your footsteps are likely to be the first, and even on Providenciales' acclaimed Grace Bay Beach, a "crowd" is rarely more than a few visitors passing by. Sunny days are the norm with heat and humidity moderated by constant tradewinds.

STARTING OCTOBER 2011 the printed edition of TTC will be available on line. People who read our news from our webpage and weekly e-bulletin will have free access to all the information and ads directly from their PC, just click on the access instructions and you will be able to navigate through our pages.

This is a new service that easily approaches more readers

Yet what makes the biggest impression is the stunning color of the surrounding sea. Some call it turquoise, other aquamarine; all testify to its crystal clarity and sparkle. There's no excuse not to get wet, be it swimming or snorkeling over colorful coral reefs or scuba-diving on breathtaking walls. Many beaches boast wide shallows, perfect for kids to frolick in and the gentle waves are sand-castle friendly. Sailing, windsurfing, parasailing, jet skiing and fishing trips are other chances to enjoy the sea. Of course, the oceanfront upscale resorts all make it easy to simply enjoy the view from a comfortable lounger, with beverage and towel service at hand.

Complementing the sun's luxuriant warmth is the friendly welcome you'll receive from TCI's congenial local populace. With tourism a relatively new development here, resorts are typically state of the art, with every first-class

amenity you'd expect. Yet the people retain a genuine desire to share their culture with visitors. So don't be surprised when your taxi driver recommends a favorite spot for conch salad, or your concierge encourages you to visit the out-island where she grew up.

Speaking of amenities, in TCI you'll find superb restaurants, with highly trained chefs elevating regional ingredients, especially seafood, to gourmet levels. You'll also find worldclass spas, several shopping plazas, a championship golf course, tennis courts, fitness centers and a lively casino. Private villa rentals are available across the Islands, for a truly "home away from home" experience.

In fact, everything about TCI makes it easy to feel at home: English is the native language and the US dollar standard currency. Being a British Overseas Dependent Territory ensures political stability, while a highly developed infrastructure and top-rate telecommunications keep life running smoothly. In late 2011, an extended runway opened at TCI's gateway airport on Providenciales to accommodate larger aircraft from Europe; most major international carriers service the country. ■ For more information, visit: www.turksandcaicostourism.com.

TTC On Line to TTC’s printed versions, dedicated to the direct distribution to the sector’s professionals at the world’s most important tourism fairs.

As a novelty, in 2012 each edition of TTC will come out in Italian, Spanish and English, so the readers for whom we write our in-

formation will have the possibility of reading it in their preferred language. Thus we are increasing our potential readers to close to 50,000 contacts, with weekly repletion, throughout the world.

Never before has news from the Caribbean been so close to read-

ers. Navigate through our pages and get updates on the most recent Caribbean product and the issuing markets to the area.

Cordial greetings

12

Interview with the Hon. Dr. Jennifer Jones-Kernahan, Ambassador of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago in Cuba.

Hon. Ambassador, due to the fact that TTC refers to the subject of Tourism in the Caribbean generally it would be interesting for us to know your point of view regarding the importance of this sector, with respect to the Economy of Trinidad and Tobago.

The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is committed to tourism development as the sector continues to positively contribute to the country’s economic diversification and the sustainable development of the people of Trinidad and Tobago. Travel and Tourism is one of the main pillars of the Government’s drive to diversify and strengthen the economy of Trinidad and Tobago away from dependence on the energy sector.

Tourism also contributes approximately 10.8 per cent of the total economic output in Trinidad and Tobago, with roughly 32,000 jobs being directly attributable to the sector.

On average, Trinidad and Tobago receives approximately TTD3.2 billion in export receipts per annum from an average of 440,000 visitors. A further TTD1 billion is generated from domestic tourism. The growth potential of this sector makes it an ideal vehicle for poverty reduction through the sustainable development of a diversified, knowledge based economy built on the native genius of the people of Trinidad and Tobago and the country’s ecological and cultural diversity.

Could you specify the larger tourist markets contributing to the arrival of tourist to Trinidad and Tobago, as well as the Airline connections moving the highest volume of visitors?

The larger tourist markets contributing to tourist arrivals to Trinidad and Tobago are the US (46%), Canada (12%) and UK (9%). The UK however is of greater significance to Tobago accounting for 49% of arrivals to the island. The airline moving the highest volume of visitors to Trinidad would be the locally based carrier Caribbean Airlines, whilst for Tobago, British Airways, Monarch and Virgin Airlines (in that order) bring the majority of the UK visitors to the island due to the direct connection between London, Gatwick and Tobago.

Which are the principal attributes and touristic destinations of your country?

The National Tourism Policy of Trinidad and Tobago, identifies three distinct selling propositions for Trinidad and Tobago cultural diversity; a developed yet idyllic island get-away in the island of Tobago and a dual experience of two unique islands in one nation.

Trinidad, as the more cosmopolitan and developed of the twin-islands is a hub for business tourism in the Southern Caribbean, while Tobago with its beaches, laid back lifestyle, pristine forest and coral reefs, is a haven for leisure tourism.

TRAVEL TRADE CARIBBEAN • YEAR XI • NO. 206 • NOVEMBER 2011

Travel and Tourism is one of the pillars

Dr. Jennifer Jones-Kernahan, Ambassador of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago in Cuba.

The most cosmopolitan of the Caribbean islands, Trinidad’s ethnic diversity reflects Trinbagonians’ ancestral heritage from India, Africa, the Middle East, Portugal, England, China, and the Caribs and Arawaks (the first inhabitants of the island). Every aspect of life in this twin-island nation reflects this story – from its hypnotising music – Soca, Calypso, Chutney and steelpan to festivals like Divali, the Hindu festival of light, Ramleela, a community enactment of the exploits of Lord Rama (an incarnation of God in human form) as he appeared on earth many thousands of years ago which climaxes with the burning of a large effigy of Rawan, and Emancipation Day which includes colourful parades in observance of the emancipation of slaves of African origin.

The birthplace of the steelpan, Trinidad is also world famous for its interactive Carnival – an annual, two-day, street party, where thousands of people party for hours on end, dressed in beautiful costumes, and dancing to the island’s indigenous music.

With pristine beaches, tropical rainforests, and a simple lifestyle, Tobago’s natural beauty is a backdrop to every activity. Bird watching, fishing, nature tours, mountain biking, snorkelling, and golfing are popular with tourists.

Home of the Western Hemisphere’s oldest, protected rainforest, Main Ridge Forest, Toba-

go is a nature lover’s delight with the coconut trees taller than the resorts. Serenity seekers can visit its many bird sanctuaries, dive locations, and coral reefs, such as protected Buccoo Reef and enjoy world class drift diving at Speyside, home to the largest brain coral in the Hemisphere.

Cultural events, like the Tobago Jazz Festival, the Tobago Heritage Festival, the Tobago Culinary Festival, and the Tobago Underwater Carnival also fill the island’s social calendar.

And if, as locals would say, “yuh like yuh belly”, dine at any of the charming, small eateries, or open-air restaurants to sample local specialities like curry crab and boiled dumplings.

Trinidad and Tobago is also fast becoming a magnet for major international conventions and meetings. First encountered by the explorer Christopher Columbus in 1498, Trinidad and Tobago has a long history of international trade that has culminated in the 21st century with its pre-eminence as a regional financial and manufacturing centre. With the development of exceptional event facilities in its thriving capital city, Port of Spain, a succession of global conferences have already benefitted from this nation’s fusion of high-tech services, superb climate and scenery.

The country has also merited a reputation as a key destination for international meetings, by hosting such notable events as the Fifth Summit of the Americas and the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2009 and the FIFA Under 17 Women’s World Cup in 2010.

How do you see Trinidad and Tobago in the context of Caribbean Integration?

Trinidad and Tobago has always been a focal point of economic, and socio cultural inte-

13

TRAVEL TRADE CARIBBEAN • YEAR XI • NO. 206 • NOVEMBER 2011

for the economy of Trinidad and Tobago

Pigeon Point.

gration of multilingual peoples of the Caribbean, (including a migrant population from Venezuela, who worked on the cocoa plantations): because of its geographic location, and the fact of its vast economic potential based on its climate, biological diversity, fertile land, as well as petroleum resources.

The immediate post Emancipation period in Trinidad and Tobago, after 1933, was a period of active immigration into Trinidad and Tobago, by Planters and indentured labourers, imported from China, and India, as well labour imported from other Caribbean islands in order to maintain the economic viability of

Tobago’s natural beauty is a backdrop to every activity.

the Plantation System of production. The discovery of oil in the early twentieth century in the oil fields in the south of Trinidad triggered another wave of immigration from other Caribbean islands.

Trinidad and Tobago has therefore developed into a multicultural, multiracial society.

Historically, many of our people, including our cultural and political icons, have parentage from, or were born in other islands. An outstanding example is our National Labour hero Tubal Uriah ‘Buzz’ Butler, who was born in the island of Grenada.

Trinidad is recognised as the most industrialized of the English speaking countries of the region: and also as an important economic and trade centre; home to the regional headquarters of major international financial institutions such as PriceWaterhouseCoopers, Ernst and Young, KPMG, as well as international Agencies such as the Inter American Development Bank, and the United Nations Development Program.

Trinidad and Tobago has always been a strong protagonist and supporter of regional cultural, labour, academic, commercial, economic, and political institutions; playing a determinant role in the development of CARICOM, the Caribbean Common Market. The Island’s commitment to the wider Caribbean Integration process was courageously demonstrated, in 1972, when Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Guyana and Jamaica jointly established diplomatic relations with the sovereign and independent Republic of Cuba.

A major instrument of the wider regional integration process; Cuba- CARICOM is a legacy of the political vision of the leaders of the region, with respect to the need to deepen, widen and advance the integration process. Trinidad and Tobago, will host at the Hilton Hotel, on the 7th and 8th of December 2011, the third Summit of Cuba- CARICOM, where issues pertinent to regional integration will be discussed. ■

First Cuban Township to Reach Half a Millennium THE FORMER TOWNSHIP of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción de Baracoa, the first founded in Cuba, last August 15 celebrated the 500th anniversary of its foundation (1511). It is the most marketed tourist area in the province of Guantánamo, a destination that this year has increased by 14% the number of visitors. France, Germany, Holland and the United Kingdom are its principal issuing markets.

Venue of the first town hall and first cathedral, Baracoa is today an ideal spot for nature and historic cultural and patrimonial tourism.

Just its access by land is in itself an attraction for visitors, through La Farola, a viaduct that winds the

mountains at more than 600 meters above sea level, with 11 hanging bridges, considered one of the Seven Wonders of civil engineering in Cuba.

Baracoa conserves clear evidence of the colonial system of fortresses and the only Vine Cross

The Porto Santo hotel.

of the 29 placed by Christopher Columbus during his trips to the New World is preserved in its parish church. Its product portfolio is being expanded with new nature tourism options, especially in the Alejandro de Humboldt National Park – in the Ojito de Agua sector.

As a whole, the six lodgments managed by the Gaviota Tourism Group have 189 rooms: the Porto Santo, El Castillo and La Rusa hotels; Villa Maguana and La Habanera and 1511 hostels – the latter, located in the historic center, was inaugurated in the framework of the festivities for Baracoa’s 500 years. The city has the Gustavo Rizo national airport for small and medium-sized aircraft. ■

14

The interview given to TTC by Amado Acosta, delegate of the Ministry of Tourism in the province of Matanzas, is about Varadero, which receives every year a million foreign tourists and is going through a thriving season.

“V

aradero has 49 hotels comprising 18,752 rooms-36% belong to Gaviota, 29% to Gran Caribe, 25% to Cubanacán and 10% to Islazul.

Of these rooms, 87% are four and five stars and 94% operate under the all-inclusive regimen,” Acosta began thus his presentation of the famous beach resort.

Thirteen prestigious international chains are present in Varadero: Sol Meliá, Iberostar, Barceló, Hoteles C, Accor, SuperClubs, Blau, Be Live (Globalia), BlueBay, Occidental, Sandals, Sirenis and RIU. They manage more than 60% of the destination’s hotel rooms.

“From the non-hotel point of view,” he continued, “Caracol operates 151 shops and commercial centers (98 in hotels); and Palmares is the owner of restaurants (specializing in Cuban, Italian, Chinese or seafood cuisine), nightspots (cabarets, party rooms, discotheques), a dolphin aquarium featuring shows – which will be expanded and improved – and the only 18-hole golf course in Cuba, the Varadero Golf Club. We

TRAVEL TRADE CARIBBEAN • YEAR XI • NO. 206 • NOVEMBER 2011

Varadero Novelties have two international marinas, Marlin (divided into Dársena and Chapelín) and Gaviota, which is currently being expanded [it will increase to 1,200 the mooring capacity]; both offer fishing and outing yachts, excursions on catamaran and other nautical activities, in addition to managing the hotels’ nautical points.”

Varadero also has halls for events in several hotels, in addition to the Plaza América Convention Center that has multipurpose halls for fairs and meetings of diverse formats and a room for plenary meetings with a capacity for 500 persons.

“It is very important for Varadero to have its own international airport, located just 28 km away, whose operational capacity has doubled after a strong investment process and can now cater to up to 1,800 passengers during peak hours [it can process every year up to two million persons] and with an operational time of between 18 and 20 minutes; which is why it will face the peak season with better conditions.” More than 70% of the tourists who visit the province arrive in or depart from this terminal.

When referring to its visitors and the access routes, the executive highlighted Canada as the principal market (in 2010 it represented 40% of the overnight stays), with whose main cities – Toronto, Montreal, Edmonton, Quebec and Calgary – Varadero has connections with charter flights that considerably increase during the

Varadero Golf Club.

winter season. “Although the operations with Canada decrease in the summer, there is a tendency to grow during that season, stability is being achieved… the second market is the United Kingdom, which contributed 8.8% in 2010, followed by Germany, countries with which Varadero also has air connections; moreover, many passengers enter through Havana given its proximity.”

He added that operations with Russia have greatly increased in recent times, and specific efforts are being dedicated to this market; this is also the case with Argentina. There are direct flights from both countries, which are showing an upward tendency.

“Another important aspect,” he said, “are the optional tours, a modality to get to know Cuba, for which Varadero is favored because of its geographical location, close to other destinations: Havana (the optional most sold), Trinidad-Santa Clara-Cienfuegos and, within the province, Ciénaga de Zapata, Matanzas and Cárdenas, plus the optional tours of Varadero’s product portfolio, among which the most outstanding are the nautical activities, Varadero Dolphin Aquarium, the cultural optional tours and the City Tour.”

In terms of development, Acosta mentioned that the RIU Varadero and El Patriarca (with some 400 rooms) hotels and the already mentioned expansion of the Marina Gaviota are at different stages of the investment process.

“Our principal challenge for the future is to continue raising the satisfaction of the clients who visit us, by offering higher quality and more professional services, as a complement to the recognized prestige of the destination that has among its fortes, in addition to its natural and cultural resources, citizens’ safety and tranquility in our country,” he concluded. ■

16

TRAVEL TRADE CARIBBEAN • YEAR XI • NO. 206 • NOVEMBER 2011

LABIOFAM and Africa Struggle against Malaria

New El Salvador-Cuba Route with Avianca-Taca

■ Yusvaldineis Moreno Sánchez

M

alaria kills more than two million persons every year, more than 90% in the African continent. It is impossible to eradicate it without controlling the agent that transmits it. The LABIOFAM Business Group has dedicated more than 10 years to this noble and arduous task with excellent results. The biolarvicides and technology of LABIOFAM have the advantage that they do not affect the environment, are harmless to persons and specific for mosquitoes, over which they act when they are most defenseless, the larval stage.

Bactivec® is an effective biolarvicide for the control of dengue, malaria and other mosquito-transmitted diseases.

Programs are being developed at present on a national scale in Angola, Zambia and Ghana; on a local scale in Tanzania, Nigeria and Burkina Faso; and in the implementation stage in Malawi, Guinea Bissau, Equatorial Guinea and Benin. More than 300 LABIOFAM specialists are working in these countries as a whole with national specialists.

In almost all the breeding grounds treated with Bactivec and Griselesf microbial larvicides there has been an average larval reduction of 99.8% and 99.6%, respectively, 72 hours after the treatment. Since 2008 until June 2010, a notable decrease in the disease has been confirmed. ■

AVIANCA-TACA inaugurated, as it had announced, a new direct route between El Salvador and Cuba with three weekly flights, in addition to the three it operates from Costa Rica and the six from Peru, for a total of 12 weekly flights and with plans to continue increasing the frequencies.

This flight offers immediate connections to passengers who arrive to El Salvador’s Connection Center during the morning hours, on A 319 aircraft with capacity for 120 passengers. It operates from San Salvador to Havana on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday; and from Havana to San Salvador on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. ■

CELAC Summit to be Held in December

THE FOUNDATIONAL summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) will be held in Caracas next December 2-3, Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez Frías announced to the media.

The Venezuelan president affirmed that 33 heads of state and government of Latin America and the Caribbean had confirmed their presence in the meeting. The Summit will serve to consolidate the regional body, a

forum that will rightfully bring together all the Latin American and Caribbean nations.

Initially previewed for last July 5, it had to be postponed because of President Chávez’s illness. ■

Catalogue Summary EDITORIAL STAFF IN ITALY redazione.italia@traveltradecaribbean.com ttc.italia@gmail.com / +39 02 36540545

2012

MARKETING FOR THE CARIBBEAN marketing@traveltradecaribbean.com Tel.: +53 5 236 5591

TTC, Travel Trade Caribbean

PRINTED NEWSPAPER

It is distributed in the world’s principal tourism fairs in Italian, English, Spanish and French. It also presents every year the Special Edition for FIHAV in Havana, one of the region’s most important fairs. It is also sent, in the digital version –in Spanish, Italian and English– through an extensive mailing list.

Both distribution channels, printed and digital, add up to more than 50,000 impacts per edition.

2012 EDITIONS First semester

Second semester

January

Fitur, Madrid, Spain

September Top Resa, Paris, France

February

BIT, Milan, Italy

October

TTG Incontri, Rimini, Italy

March

ITB, Berlin, Germany

November

FIHAV, Havana, Cuba

March

MAP, Paris, France

November

WTM, London, U.K.

April

BMT, Naples, Italy

May

FITCUBA, Santa María Cay, Cuba

MAIN FORMATS FOR PRINTED INSERTION

ONE PAGE

HALF PAGE

QUARTER PAGE

Caribbean Operators Book A detailed list of the insular Caribbean’s tour-

QUARTER HORIZONTAL

FRONT-PAGE MASTHEAD

1/8 HORIZONTAL

BANNER

HORIZONTAL MODULE

TTC News News Bulletin

ist entities, with updated data and email addresses. In Spanish, Italian and English, the COB can also be found in digital format by visiting:www.caribbeanoperatorsbook.com

Weekly news supplement in Spanish, Italian and English that makes known, through the web, the latest and most important news about the area’s tourist sector. It is sent through a mailing list of 40,000 addresses.

TTC website

TTC NewsLetter

In Spanish, Italian and English it features a summary of the printed newspaper and other sections of interest. It contains an archive of historical information from the printed editions and e-bulletins.

ELECTRONIC BULLETIN

www.traveltradecaribbean.com

Made on request, to publish punctual and useful news of institutional interest. It is sent through 40,000 addresses in Cuba, Italy, Spain and the United States, among the most representative.

19

TRAVEL TRADE CARIBBEAN • YEAR XI • NO. 206 • NOVEMBER 2011

THREE FROM DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

TOURISM FROM EUROPE STILL ALIVE French executive director of the Dominican Chamber of Commerce, Henri Hebrard, said during the First Summit of European Tourism that the Dominican Republic is one of the Caribbean countries best positioned to attract new tourists from Europe, who are seeking not just sun and beach but also culture tourism, plus content and gastronomy. He said that “European tourism is still alive…. I believe we have excellent arguments to continue selling the products that the Europeans are precisely seeking: culture, history, gastronomy, agricultural products, and the coffee and sugar routes.”

4.3 MILLION TOURISTS EXPECTED THIS YEAR Minister of Tourism Francisco Javier García affirmed that in 2011 the tourist sector will surpass the 3.3% growth registered in 2010, when it received 4,125,000 tourists.

For 2011, 4.3 million tourist arrivals are expected. According to data provided by the Ministry, the country received 3,354,417 tourists from January to August 2011, 94,403 more than the same period last year.

In 2010, the tourist industry generated USD4.2 billion and this year higher incomes are expected.

NEW FLIGHTS FROM RUSSIA ANNOUNCED Starting November, 31 new charter flights from Russia will arrive in the Dominican Republic, with departures from Ekaterimburg and Novosibirsk to Punta Cana. Coordinated by the PEGAS tour operator, they will join those managed

by Aeroflot, “which guarantees the growth of this market that has had one of the best performances of the year” [52% growth until August], Deputy Minister of Tourism Magaly Toribio announced.

Starting 2012 Russians will be flying directly to Puerto Plata and that in the upcoming months there will be an increase in flights from Europe, Miami and Puerto Rico to Puerto Plata. ■

20

TRAVEL TRADE CARIBBEAN • YEAR XI • NO. 206 • NOVEMBER 2011

The Caribbean is Also Gourmet ■ Yamir Pelegrino Rodríguez

I

would like to start this gourmet tour through our famous Caribbean Sea, again interpreting the code that led me to speak about this subject, perhaps a bit forgotten and even badly exploited in these lands of an unpredictable sea, with sun and beaches. It turns out that I’ve just come back from a very interesting seminar where the subject of the Caribbean’s tourist development was strongly debated… and there the integration, sustainability and increase of sales in this beautiful area came to the fore. We spoke about how to reach guests more and better, especially U.S. visitors, because of their proximity and facility to fly to the Caribbean; we spoke about “comfort,” better conditions and how to attract segments of markets seeking new experiences. This part included the conjured subjects, like incredible beaches, virgin spots, catchy dances, views that are ancestral stained-glass windows, autochthonous foods and an incredible display of activities to attract tourists to these lands.

But here I began to verify and substantiate everything guests miss out on, how the true information that tourists get is unreal, why a destination with so much gourmet tradition and history doesn’t also sell its attributes that many yearn for and even envy in many parts of the world.

In my opinion, one of the great attractions of the Mediterranean Sea, in addition to its beaches, with their majestic sea and beautiful sites, is its (gourmet) gastronomic memory. Me must not forget that we get from there the major wines, olive oil, cheeses, cured hams, vinegars and many other products that make up the much used, demanded and promoted Mediterranean diet, which I think is excellent in terms of nutrition as well as aesthetically. It’s really impossible for guests to turn their back on this package, since it duly combines sun, beach, history, gastronomy and good taste, a real delicacy, its gourmet products and their history come to round off the good tourist offer, which soon

creates habits with these products or delicatessens, which they consume during their everlasting vacations. And I ask myself, and the Caribbean doesn’t have gourmet products? Why aren’t we capable of selling our endemic products?

In short, we do not use on tourists these marked and almost enigmatic advantages, daughters of mother nature… and I begin by saying that in this privileged area we not only have the climate, land, geography and above all its people, but also some gourmet products on a par with the noble Europeans and those from other parts of the world.

We have the best black tobacco in the world and its direct offspring, the cigar. These lands are chosen to produce this elite product; that jewel of Vuelta Abajo is cultivated in Cuba, born from the humble hands of the tobacco growers in that area with a stamp of distinction, since it is the only one with denomination of origin of the planet earth, the one everybody wants to take to their lips, in the best style of Winston Churchill. We can add to this that here we can find the elixir for U.S. visitors who come seeking their forbidden fruit, which is called the Havana cigar, and who want to devour it after so much accu-

YAMIR PELEGRINO RODRÍGUEZ AN EXPERT in the world of gourmets, sommeliers and combinations, he is a twotime winner of the Gourmand, Cookbooks & Wines Awards – called the Nobel Prize for Gastronomy Literature – with the books Mi Pasión Gourmet and Cono100do el vino. A Master cigar sommelier, Master Wine (from the UK Wine and Spirit Education Trust and London Metropolitan universities) and Master Sommelier (from the International Sommeliers and the Italian Sommeliers associations). The French University of Bordeaux granted him the titles of Commander and Brotherhood of Wine. He has received a great many recognitions, participated in numerous international juries and collaborated as a columnist of articles about gourmet cooking, Havana cigars and wines for the specialized press of many countries.

mulated enthusiasm, not counting that we can find incredible tobacco in the Dominican Republic, Honduras and Nicaragua, a sign that this Caribbean territory is the chosen one for its planting, production and manufacturing.

Let’s say that its perfect combination is that subtle and heady Rum…. Yes, the Caribbean is also sugarcane, light rums with a marked quality and sparking agricultural rums, the children of the small islands of the Lesser Antilles. It is said that the ferments found in the atmosphere guarantee the total concentration of this hard and also artistic liquid, crazed over by corsairs and consummate artists. The super demanded Angostura Bitters, a remedy for more than one hangover after a day of much drinking and an inseparable friend of the world’s most renowned cocktails also comes from here. This is precisely another of our gourmet products, our rich and varied cocktails. Suffice it to say that the 12 cocktails most fancied in the world are those from this area, not counting bee honey, shoots of exotic flowers, vegetables and barks, our fruits, hard to find in other parts of the world, coffee, cacao, the coconut trees with their magic shade and an endless number of such rare vegetables that are truly legends to be explored by our guests.

Thus it becomes difficult for me to think that only the Mediterranean uses the media to exploit the natural jewels born of its geography, the famous Mare Nostrum is not the only one that can boast having the best and most demanded gourmet products. Starting today it’s our turn to highlight these incredible and unrepeatable gourmet details, perceptible and memorable in each of our guests’ stories. A balance should be made, but always betting on a fantastic destination that has as its mark of identity and added values the autochthonous, the exotic, what everyone would like to have.

We have more than enough sun, beaches and beautiful people, but we should also boast of this other Caribbean, the one that makes you fall in love with it forever….

Our Gourmet Caribbean. ■

22

TRAVEL TRADE CARIBBEAN • YEAR XI • NO. 206 • NOVEMBER 2011

© ROZA | DREAMSTIME.COM

NEW AIR CONNECTIONS IN THE CARIBBEAN

VIRGIN ATLANTIC ANNOUNCES MORE FLIGHTS TO THE CARIBBEAN With the start of the winter season, Virgin Atlantic will increase its transportation capacity to the Caribbean with more flights to Barbados, Cuba, Tobago and Grenada. It will add a second weekly flight between Manchester and Barbados, a third weekly service between London-Gatwick and Havana, and a second weekly flight to Tobago as well as to Grenada.

The company will offer a 14% increase in capacity on its Boeing 747 on Premium Economy class, with which it guarantees the movement of a greater number of higher purchasing power clients to the Caribbean destinations.

AIR EUROPA OPENS MADRID-PUERTO PLATA ROUTE Air Europa began a new flight from Madrid-Barajas to Puerto Plata, the Dominican Republic, a route that will have a weekly frequency and will be operated by a Boeing 767 with capacity for 263 passengers, 18 of them in the Business class.

MORE CONNECTIONS FROM DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TO GERMANY, AUSTRIA AND SWITZERLAND Starting November there will be an increase in the number of weekly flights connecting the issuing markets of Germany, Austria and Switzerland with the tourist destinations of La Romana, Punta Cana and Puerto Plata.

Condor will fly the Vienna-Punta Cana route on Wednesday on an aircraft with capacity for 270 passengers; it will be the only direct connection between Austria and the Dominican Republic. Meanwhile, every Sunday a link between the city of Basel-Mulhouse and Punta Cana, in charge of Arkefly, will be added to the weekly Zurich-Puerto Plata flight (Thursday).

FLIGHTS FROM RUSSIA TO MEXICO INCREASE In response to the great demand Cancun has for Russians, since late October the Aero-

flot and Transat Aero airlines increased the frequency between Sheremetyevo, in Moscow, and Cancun international airports: flights every day on board Aeroflot’s Airbus 330.200, seating 241 passengers, 34 of them in first class.

Meanwhile, Transat Aero, an airline that already had a direct frequency from Moscow to Cancun, will expand to two weekly flights and an additional one on January 2012.

COPA AIRLINES FLIES FROM PANAMA TO MONTEGO BAY Jamaica’s Tourism Office and Copa Airlines announced the new service between the Hub of the Americas, in Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport – PTY – and Jamaica’s Sangster International Airport – MBJ – in Montego Bay, which will be available starting November 1 and will connect 58 cities from North, Central and South America with the Jamaican city through the Panamanian air terminal.

The flights will depart from PTY on Tuesday and Sunday at 9:06 a.m. and will arrive in MBJ at 11:03 a.m.; while the return trips are programmed for Tuesday and Sunday, departing from MBJ at 12:39 p.m. and arriving in PTY at 2:30 p.m. In addition to the expansion to Montego Bay, Copa Airlines has a regular

Jamaica’s Sangster International Airport (MBJ) Montego Bay.

service from its connections center in Panama to Jamaica’s Norman Manley International Airport, in Kingston.

MEXICO-PANAMA ROUTES AND FREQUENCIES EXPANDED Panama and Mexico expanded air frequencies and incorporated Monterrey, Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos as new destinations in addition to Mexico City, Cancun and Guadalajara. According to the signed bilateral agreement, the weekly frequencies between Panama City and Mexico will be increased from 21 to 28, and from 21 to 35 to Cancun; meanwhile, there will be seven weekly flights to Guadalajara and to the three new destinations.

VENEZUELAN AIRLINE OPENS ROUTES TO COLOMBIA AND THE CARIBBEAN Venezuela’s Conviasa airline opened the second frequency on Caracas-Bogotá flights, with departure from the Simon Bolívar Airport at 20:20 local time and the return flight at 22.20 Colombian time. It also covers new routes to Trinidad and Tobago, Ecuador, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada and Dominica.

VENEZUELA AND CURAÇAO INAUGURATE TOURIST FLIGHTS Venezuela and Curacao gave a boost to their relations with the inauguration of the first Caracas-Willemstad air route. The Caribbean country’s Insel Air Company will be in charge of the 35-minute trips between the Maiquetía Simón Bolívar and Hato international airports, with a daily frequency from Monday to Thursday.

CHILE ADDS DAILY FLIGHT TO PUNTA CANA Chile’s LAN airline added a daily flight to Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic. The flights will run regularly, with departures from the airport of Santiago, Chile, to the airport of Punta Cana and vice versa. ■