July 2017 by TTG MENA

T H E B U S I N E S S O F S E L L I N G T R AV E L

On Location INDIA Elevating its appeal to the world

Update MED ESCAPES Taking note of travel trends

CAN-DO ATTITUDE Positivity abounds in Lebanon, as tourism stakeholders work hand in hand to further boost the industry's reach

JULY 2017

ISSUE 308

Spotlight BALKANS Tourism entities share their updates

Interview CEO, SalamAir, Franรงois Bouteiller

CONTENTS > YOUR GUIDE 04

NEWS & CALENDAR

INTERVIEW

COME

TOGETHER hroughout the Holy Month of Ramadan, the

TTG MENA team was really impressed to

DESTINATION LEBANON

see the huge number of travel and tourism entities conducting various initiatives to

give back to their communities and thank those who

UPDATE MED ESCAPES

work hard. It was lovely to see people hosting special Iftar

evenings, organising charity events and distributing

ON LOCATION INDIA

delicious Iftar meals to labourers, taxi drivers and the less fortunate. Ramadan truly is a time for unity

and positive vibes, and seeing such kindness really

SPOTLIGHT BALKANS

A LETTER FROM... Wishing you a fabulous July!

restores your faith in humanity following trying times and endless days of terrible news spanning the

globe.

SUMMER PROMOTIONS

We need to keep this momentum going, and always consider those who need a helping hand or a

simple reassuring smile to brighten their day.

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

I hope that you all had a blessed Eid and enjoyed the company of your friends and family over these

special holidays.

SOCIAL HUB

July 2017

ttgmena.com

Tatiana Tsierkezou

TTG MENA Editor

NEWS

Exhibition

POSITIVE TURNAROUND

Calendar

SUSTAIN GROWTH, MAXIMISE PROFIT HMH – Hospitality Management Holding has witnessed notable year-on-year growth at its UAE properties, which have exceeded expectations with an outstanding year-todate performance. Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel recorded a 23 per cent growth in

AUGUST 2-5 The Hotel Show Philippines, Manila, Philippines www.thehotelshowphilippines.com

Royal Jordanian (RJ) reported positive operational results between January and April this year, having transported 45,000 more passengers than the corresponding period in 2016. The number of passengers travelling with the airline in the first four months amounted to 1.13 million. The seat factor also rose from 64 per cent to 70 per cent in 2017. The airline’s on-time performance went up to 81.4 per cent from 77 per cent in 2016. President and CEO, RJ, Captain Suleiman Obeidat attributed the overwhelmingly successful numbers to the unwavering dedication of the RJ team. He expressed gratitude and appreciation to all RJ employees for the positive turnaround in the operational results.

extremely positive trends, with certain markets performing

NOVEMBER 6-8 World Travel Market London, UK • www. london.wtm.com NOVEMBER 7-9 AccessAbilities Expo, Dubai, UAE www.accessabilitiesexpo.com NOVEMBER 26 Middle East Hozpitality Excellence Awards, Dubai, UAE www.hozpitalityexcellenceawards.com

including 86 suites. In addition to this,

Nordic and Baltic States, which helped boost the numbers. In addition, the GCC market remains very strong with very successful school holiday periods.” He added: “In terms of the future, to sustain our growth in a highly competitive environment, it is absolutely essential on our business.”

A PROMINENT EMIRATE grew notably, totaling 130,000.

Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture

and three-bedroom

Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) recorded

serviced residences

impressive figures from January

destination continue unabated and we

will be operated on an

to April, with the emirate having

are encouraged by our latest hotel guest

extended-stay basis.

welcomed 1.6 million guests during

arrival results which continue to show

the specified period.

strong progress,” said director general,

first-rate facilities

This impressive number marks

“Efforts to stimulate interest in our

TCA Abu Dhabi, HE Saif Saeed Ghobash. “As we expand our year-round

comprising various

a seven per cent jump on the

dining concepts,

corresponding period in 2016,

programme of events and develop new

ranging from an Asian

with April building on the strong

cultural and family attractions, we expect

specialty restaurant to

performance of the first three

even greater traction in enticing more

a French lobby café; the

months of 2017.

people to explore the emirate.”

SoSpa and gymnasium;

Key feeder markets – China, India,

China has maintained its position as

outdoor pools; 10

UK, USA, Germany and Saudi Arabia

the largest overseas source market with

meeting rooms; a

– showed significant growth, whilst

131,253 guest arrivals, followed by India

1,115m2 ballroom; and a

domestic hotel guest numbers also

with 104,436 and the UK with 86,529.

youth club. “We are delighted to work with MKM Commercial Holdings, one of our longstanding partners, to develop this impressive project that will

ofitel Hotels & Resorts has unveiled plans

undoubtedly become

for a brand-new property in Dubai, which is

a future flagship for

slated to be the largest Sofitel property in

Sofitel in the region,”

Developed in collaboration with development

of the wholesale market from the CIS Europe, including the

97 studio, one-, two-

The hotel will feature

the Middle East region to date.

better than expected. There has been a very strong return

to have a stronger grip TTG MENA will be available at these shows

luxury guest rooms,

revenue year-on-year. HMH, Ferghal Purcell, who said: “We have been witnessing

SEPTEMBER 19-21 OTDYKH International Russian Travel Market, Moscow, Russia www.tourismexpo.ru/en/

2019. It will boast 501

BRAND FLAGSHIP IN DUBAI

Deira averaged between a five to 10 per cent increase in Delighted with the progress was chief commercial officer,

SEPTEMBER 18-20 The Hotel Show Dubai, UAE www.thehotelshow.com

•

revenue, while Coral Beach Resort Sharjah and Coral Dubai

stated chief operating officer, luxury brands,

partner MKM Commercial Holdings, Sofitel Dubai

AccorHotels Middle

Wafi will be joining a portfolio of 14 hotels in early

East, Sami Nasser.

4 July 2017

ttgmena.com

NEWS

SUPERB GOLF IN OMAN

HOTEL CHECK RODA AL MUROOJ HOTEL, DUBAI

By Helen Moss

making facilities – a must for a business traveller like myself. The significantly comfortable double bed was a perfect fit, and was where I spent most of my evenings after a hardworking day of meetings. The most memorable features of my room were the exquisite bathroom amenities, which

Jebel Sifa in Oman has partnered with Troon

consisted of sweet-smelling

International – an expert in golf management and

hand creams and lavish

development – to manage the recently completed

shower gels. I simply couldn’t

9-hole Harradine golf course.

resist taking some with me back home to Cyprus.

Troon will deliver elevated customer service to

The staff was brilliant,

all golfers visiting the course, which is scheduled

always punctual and happy to

to inaugurate this September.

help with any of my questions

The 9-hole par 36 championship golf course grants stunning views of the Al Hajjar Mountains

and concerns. And the best

and the Arabian Sea, and presents golfers with a

part about the Roda Al Murooj

range of unique twists and turns around the man-

Hotel – its ever so convenient

made environment and local flora and fauna. Five

orking in the travel industry, I find

and a cold towelette immediately

location! Getting to some

tee locations at each hole will be available, with

myself visiting Dubai very frequently

upon my arrival.

of Dubai’s most prominent

the option to use second pin flags to play as an

and have therefore stayed at a

My stay in the Classic Room was a

shopping malls and business

number of hotels. My experience at the Roda

comfortable one to say the least, as

centres was a breeze, making

President, Troon International, Mark Chapelski

Al Murooj Hotel was a refreshing one – quite

the room was of a generous size and

the overall guest experience

said: “Golf in Jebel Sifah offers an experience to

literally so, as I was greeted with fresh juice

boasted top notch tea and coffee

seamless and joyful.

18-hole par 72.

rival the very best exclusive golf destinations.”

TTG staff and correspondents assess services used by them. We report the results, which are based on a one-time experience only and view services from a customer perspective.

6 July 2017

ttgmena.com

INTERVIEW

ENHANCING OMAN’S AVIATION INDUSTRY In today’s environment, there’s nothing wrong with a business traveller flying with a lowcost carrier.

With additional aeroplanes that came in, we now offer a double-daily route to Dubai. We have also introduced flights to Jeddah, Madinah in Saudi Arabia and Sialkot, Bhutan and Karachi in Pakistan. Over the month of Ramadan we increased our frequencies to Saudi Arabia and also introduced flights to and from Ta’if. We’re very excited and we’ve been gearing up gradually and increasing the aircraft utilisation and the number of destinations in staged phases. : Who does SalamAir appeal to? In today’s environment, there’s nothing wrong with a business traveller flying with a low-cost carrier. It used to not be the case. But now, on our Salalah route, probably about 30 per cent of passengers are government bodies, SMEs, business travellers etcetera. Again, the way we structure our airline and our schedule, we offer good business timings. For example, our Dubai flights leave at 08:00; you can go to your meeting and at 16:00 you can fly back. It’s convenient, and that’s what business travellers want. The same goes for the Salalah route, or even Jeddah. If you have the right timings, then business travellers are interested. If you look at the reasons for booking, obviously price is one, but for business travellers it’s also the timing. The schedule is very much planned with the business traveller in mind. : In terms of SalamAir’s future, can you share any juicy information? The particularity in this part of the world is based on

Sharing all with Tatiana Tsierkezou, CEO, SalamAir, François Bouteiller speaks of Oman’s very first low-cost carrier’s journey so far

cycles. It’s not only the effect of seasonality. We have Ramadan, Khareef, Hajj and the Eid Holidays – all of that is concentrated in the summer time. There’s a lot of shifting and changing in order to cater to demand during these periods. So as a consequence, we introduced Ta’if during the Ramadan season, and then at the end of Ramadan Khareef comes in, and from Salalah

: I want you to tell me about SalamAir and its ethos. How has it all been since its launch?

taken by foreign carriers. So, with these two

we will serve the Dubai market, the Kuwait market and

elements came the creation of an airline.

the Riyadh market.

ASAAS, our mother company, has decided SalamAir is a project that has been in discussion for a number of years. Oman has Oman Air, but

we may actually keep them. This is something that we are

to take on this project. In August we constituted the airline and we

competition is always healthy and the government

became completely independent in November

has invested a significant amount of money into

last year. And on the 29th of January came our

Oman’s infrastructure and hotels. That being said,

first flight. Our objective was to launch quickly

significant investments were made to cope with the

and efficiently.

increased demand but there was nothing to deal with

We’ll see if these destinations work well, and if they do,

We started with our Muscat-Salalah route

working on. : Will SalamAir just concentrate on this side of the region? If you look from Muscat and Salalah, our radius spans

the number of passengers to and from Oman, and

and we had very good load factors from the

approximately three hours’ flight time. Turkey, Egypt,

even domestically between Muscat and Salalah. This

beginning. We had our first full flight after

East Africa, the GCC and Arabic Peninsula, Pakistan, the

is one of the issues that the country was facing, and

three days of operations, and we’re still

Indian Subcontinent and Iran and Iraq are within our

domestically speaking, this is a major problem.

doing very well. We then increased our daily

radius of destinations. We’ll actually open Dhakka in the

If you look at different regions of the world, low-

frequency to three flights a day, and now it

future as well, which is a stretch for us, but there is a big

cost carriers cater to about 25–40 per cent of their

stands at four flights a day. We’re really able

Bangladeshi community in Oman, so we want to make

capacity. In Oman that’s about 12 per cent, and this is

to cover good timings throughout the day.

sure we don’t leave it alone.

8 July 2017

ttgmena.com

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DESTINATION LEBANON

CAN-DO ATTITUDE Lebanon’s ambitious get-up-and-go mindset is pushing its tourism industry to new and exciting heights. Tatiana Tsierkezou investigates

lthough 2016 was somewhat of a

sight on the nature of the country’s tourism

strenuous year for Lebanon’s tour-

industry was CEO and founder, Amber Con-

ism industry, movers and shakers are

sulting (a hospitality consulting firm), Ralph

ception. This suggests that 2017, which started on a rather

expressing feelings of optimism and

ket wishing to uncover Lebanon and its touristic magic. “[This] is a good sign for the change in the traveller’s per-

Nader: “The market in Lebanon is very cycli-

positive note, can be a good year in terms of new tourist

are stronger than ever before, following a suc-

cal. It can go down quickly and then pick up

affluence to the destination, mainly those coming for dis-

cessful 2017 so far.

just as quickly.”

covery,” he added.

Supporting the positivity that can be felt

Meanwhile, reflecting on a challenging

Putting the age of visitors and reasons for travelling

among tourism players are statistics released by

2016 was general manager, Le Gray, Beirut,

aside, where are visitors to Lebanon coming from? Answer-

Ernst & Young, whose recent survey highlighted

Georges Ojeil: “We must say that business

ing this question, director of sales and marketing, Monroe

that hotel occupancy in the capital city, Beirut,

travel was not at its peak during 2016, how-

Hotel Beirut, Roy Bou Gharios shared some fascinating sta-

stood at 63.4 per cent from January-April 2017,

ever, it was noticeable that travellers came

tistics with TTG.

up from the 54.8 per cent recorded in the cor-

to attend the summer cultural festivals,

responding period last year.

which reached an unprecedented number

Asia reported the highest year-on-year increase of 34.5 per

last year. We also noticed a high touristic

cent and reached 41,910 in the first four months of 2017.

reportedly welcomed a total of 503,805 dur-

activity during the months of January and

Tourist arrivals from Arab countries reported a year-on-

ing the first four months of 2017, representing

September during PHOTOMED, the festival

year increase of 22 per cent and reached 179,828 visitors.”

an impressive 17.5 per cent jump on the corre-

of Mediterranean photography, and Beirut

sponding period in 2016.

Art Fair, the contemporary art show cover-

16.3 per cent, reaching 18,361, while tourists from Europe

ing the Middle East and Africa region.”

increased by 13.8 per cent and stood at 163,002. As for the

As for tourists visiting the county, Lebanon

With industry statistics speaking for themselves, TTG embarked on a journey to uncover

Ojeil further explained to TTG that Le

“In terms of tourist arrivals by nationality, tourists from

Gharios added that tourists from Oceania increased by

number of American and African tourists, a year-on-year

the thoughts and feelings of Lebanon’s travel

Gray, Beirut witnessed and welcomed

increase of 10.6 per cent and 7.6 per cent respectively was

and tourism industry. The first to share his in-

heightened interest from the Millennial mar-

recorded, reaching 69,950 and 30,568.

10 July 2017

ttgmena.com

DESTINATION LEBANON CHALLENGE ACCEPTED

Lebanon has brushed the dust off its shoulders and is picking up the slack from last year.

It comes as no surprise that Lebanon, a destination overflowing with culture and charm, has faced a number of trials and tribulations over recent years, however, travel and tourism entities are tackling these head on as a united front. “Lebanon in general has mostly faced political challenges. We learned to push harder,

Travel Market in Dubai to meet

visit more companies, create more aware-

with travel agencies and ex-

ness and show people that Lebanon is not

pose the hotel to international

from last year,” remarked Abou Nafeh of The Smallville Hotel. “Our hotel is fol-

the ‘scary’ country that the media portrays

buyers.”

lowing suit and enjoying the resurgence of Gulf visitors. This is a rather positive

it to be. It is a charming, breath-taking and sparkling country,” declared general manager, Staybridge Suites Beirut, Ihab Kanawati.

positivity abounds in vibrant Lebanon, with further success anticipated. “Lebanon has brushed the dust off its shoulders and is picking up the slack

year for us, and this is what is exciting me most. This opens up a world of pos-

THE NEED TO SUCCEED

Echoing Kanawati’s sentiment was manag-

sibilities.” Concluding TTG’s investigation was Nader, who said: “2017 is exciting in a sense that the country has recovered to a good level of political stability and

ing director, Sandy Tours (a sister company of

Complementing the industry’s

security. Investors are still cautious but we believe if the situation continues to

Cleopatra Tours), Dr. Rabih El Khatib: “Media

infallible attitude towards pro-

have a positive outlook, projects that were on hold will be revived. The new gov-

and false information about the country’s se-

moting the country’s fantastic

ernment understood that tourism is our best assets and is keen to develop the

curity have been the challenges we have faced

portfolio, Lebanon’s Govern-

sector further with some interesting initiatives like the rural tourism plan. As

in Lebanon. We tried to solve this through

ment recently unveiled a new

consultants for the hospitality sector, we already feel 2017 will be a better year

promoting the correct image of Lebanon. We

tourism-related initiative: The

than 2016 as we are receiving a lot of solicitations.”

are trying to adapt to online [promotion] in

Religious Cultural Tourism

the form of blogs and forums, to help individu-

Project.

Following a difficult tourism climate, Lebanon is again climbing the global

als uncover the experiences of other visitors

Launched by Saad Hariri,

who have already been to Lebanon, and gain

the Lebanese Prime Minister,

advice and recommendations.”

in May of this year, the project

Also speaking to TTG about challenges was

religious sites possessed by the

ville Hotel, Elizabeth Abou Nafeh: “Last year

country. Sharing insight on this excit-

It was rather sluggish, and coupled with the

ing new initiative was Nader of

presidential crisis we went through, tourism in

Amber Consulting: “The first

the country dwindled.

phase [of this project] includes

“This year however, the tourism industry

an English database of religious

as a whole has picked up the pace. We thank-

sites, simplified maps for sug-

fully have a president now and our relation-

gested routes, a website, a

ship with the GCC countries has drastically

book, a promotional movie and

improved. Therefore, Lebanon is experiencing

a study on religious tourism.”

a resurgence in the number of tourists, espe-

Nader further revealed that

cially from GCC countries. Hotels are bustling

the development of rural tour-

with visitors and many new and wonderful fes-

ism is still a focus for the coun-

tivals are taking place.”

try, while, regarding specific

Meanwhile, shedding light on a different

projects, one of the largest de-

type of challenge faced, was Ojeil of Le Gray,

velopments in the country, the

Beirut: “Challenges were mainly caused by

20,000m2 La Siesta in Khalde,

the price war that prevailed in the local mar-

officially opened its doors to

ket. The decrease in leisure travel in general

the public last month.

resulted in a decrease in the average rates,

“La Siesta is a beach resort

because corporate rates are lower. Addition-

with eco-friendly features

ally, hotels with high room inventories needed

and abundant green spaces. It

to drop the rate in favour of volume. This cre-

includes beautiful chalets for

ated a trend to which all hotels had to align.”

seasonal or yearly rental, a

And with Lebanon’s tourism industry having

ballroom for all kinds of events,

dramatically U-turned this year, how are mov-

Mediterraneo, an exquisite fish

ers and shakers uniting to raise awareness of

and Mediterranean restaurant,

this beautiful country’s tourism portfolio?

and a rooftop restaurant serv-

“This year, more exhibitions, fairs and

network.

works to promote the 3,000

director of sales and marketing, The Smallwasn’t a very fruitful year regarding tourism.

ranks thanks to its determined approach and its strong-willed support

ing Shisha and oriental delights.

events have been organised in Lebanon and

This project is the only substan-

this increased the touristic activities in the

tial beach resort project in the

country,” shared Kanawati. “Recently, Stay-

country for this year,” he told

bridge Suites Beirut attended the Visit Leba-

TTG exclusively.

non Exhibition, which was organised by the

And while developments roll

Ministry of Tourism, as well as the Arabian

out, spirits are lifted, and thus, July 2017

ttgmena.com

DESTINATION LEBANON

UPPING ITS GAME

EXCITING EVOLUTION Lebanon’s Le Gray, Beirut

facilities will impress Le

is currently in the final

Gray’s loyal clientele and

stages of a game-changing

attract new guests with

extension project, which is

additional spaces.”

set to boost its popularity among the MICE market

property will include The

and business and leisure

Boardroom, a meeting

travellers.

venue for 20 people;

Speaking to TTG about

onroe Hotel

Gharios.

New additions at the

The Muse Room, a

the project was general

multi-function venue

manager, Le Gray, Beirut,

for business meetings

Georges Ojeil: “The new

and social gatherings;

AN IMPRESSIVE FACELIFT

Highlighting other

The Screening Room,

notable updates at the

a 52-seat mini cinema

The Smallville Hotel in Lebanon’s capital city recently

refurbishment project of

hotel, Gharios told TTG

with state-of-the-art

upgraded its F&B facilities as well as its rooms.

its rooms and suites, to

that Monroe Hotel Beirut

audio-visual equipment

ensure that its product

re-opened its pool with

and comfortable seating;

The Smallville Hotel, Elizabeth Abou Nafeh: “All of our

remains fresh and enticing

a totally new concept

The Atrium, an exhibition

outlets have been updated and given a little extra oomph.

to travellers.

surrounding it at the

and art venue; and The

“Another interesting and noteworthy development

Beirut recently completed a

Sharing all with TTG was director of sales and marketing,

end of June; a pool bar

Grand Salon, a 400m

definitely has to be our new designer floor. We have picked

wooden furniture and

overlooking Zeitouna Bay

banquet facility. Upon

a floor and designated a designer to each room. In that

changed the carpets, linen

and the Mediterranean

completion of the project,

room, their creative processes are allowed to run wild. Each

and duvets,” explained the

Sea. Adding to this, a gym

the hotel will also boast a

room has embodied a distinct character different from the

hotel’s director of sales

officially opened on the

reinvented lobby lounge

other. It truly is a unique experience,” concluded

and marketing, Roy Bou

same level.

and 16 new guestrooms.

Abou Nafeh.

“We touched up all

12 July 2017

ttgmena.com

UPDATE MEDITERRANEAN ESCAPES

EXPANDING HORIZONS A popular summer tourism destination thanks to its sun, sea and sand appeal, the Mediterranean is branching out to cater to new market trends. By Emily Millett

to buy a product, but rather live an experience. It’s time for a more authentic experience beyond the traditional way of travelling,” Akritidou added.

GET ACTIVE On the back of the increase in experiential travel, industry insiders across the Mediterranean, are also witnessing an influx of visitors looking to get active on their travels. “We have noticed an increase in active travel requests – people nowadays want to stay fit on vacation and we are responding accordingly. We have purchased our own

rystal waters, golden sandy beaches and stunning weather all

tourist routes, into people’s homes; for

bikes as well as minivans for bike support

characterise tourism in the Mediterranean. However, encapsulating

cooking lessons; to local specialty making

and bike transportation; we have trained

multiple destinations and responding to shifting tourism trends, the

presentations; to abandoned villages;

guides to guide the biking and hiking

region is evolving its offering and expanding its horizons.

horseback riding with participants of local

routes; and we have a number of other

equestrian tournaments; [and transport

activities in our offer, of course on a

they depend on many things, such as value for money, safety and the general

them] deep into local culture for a better

private basis,” Jakoliš shared.

offer,” PR manager, Global PR, Croatian National Tourist Board, Luci Jerkovic

understanding and immersion into the

explained to TTG.

region they are visiting.”

“Tourism trends in the Mediterranean are not the same in all destinations and

Perhaps this trend is due to the region lending itself to active adventures and

“For example, Croatia’s main product is still viewed as ‘sun and sea’ but we

Meanwhile, in the Northern Greek

fitness activities, with a landscape that is

have also noticed a new trend through market research and that is the increase

Mediterranean escape of Halkidiki, the

ideal for hiking, cycling, horse-riding and

of different travel motives such as city break tourism, nautical tourism and

local tourism organisation is currently

all types of water sports.

wellness and spa.”

working on repositioning the area on

Speaking to TTG about the

the tourism map, with a new strategy

action-packed potential of the

leading travel agency in Croatia), Nikolina Frklic, these devolvement’s are

to promote Halkidiki as the hidden secret

Mediterranean island of Cyprus,

stimulating the arrival of new players on the scene.

of Greece.

hotel manager, Alion Beach

According to head of marketing and corporate communications, Atlas (a

“New destinations are managing to position themselves as

“In order to meet the new challenges

Hotel, Panicos Michael said: “Cyprus is

alternative destinations, for example, Calabria, following the summer holidays

following our new strategy, we are

seeing more active holiday vacationists as

sales growth in the Mediterranean. The demand for the Adriatic is also

presenting Halkidiki through the senses

well as eco-tourism. The Mediterranean

recording excellent trends,” Frklic told TTG.

and not just beautiful photographs of

is a versatile area and the trends differ

exotic beaches,” marketing manager,

depending on the area. Hotels that cater

Halkidiki Tourism Organisation,

for adults only are also becoming more

Tania Akritidou told TTG. “Our goal is to

and more popular, as people need to be

Over the past few years, the global tourism industry has been shifting in tune

promote Halkidiki as a holistic experience

able to completely unwind from their

to the current major trend for experiential tourism and authenticity. In the

beyond ‘sun and sea’.

stressful work.”

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

Mediterranean things are no different, with hotels focusing on how to provide genuine experiences that one might not find in a typical guide book.

“In the past few years, tourists

Also in Cyprus, Z&X Holiday Villas is

started seeking new destinations and

gearing up for a productive summer of

authentic experiences. They look for

active holiday makers visiting the island,

the Mediterranean, is a turn towards experiential tourism,” vice president of

sustainable destinations, they want to

with an extended portfolio and a newly

Vedema and Mystique, Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts, Santorini, Kalia

taste local products while interacting

renovated villa in Argaka, Paphos.

Konstantinidou told TTG. “Guests are looking for experiences. They are not only

with locals. They no longer want

“A powerful trend we are noticing in tourism generally and not only in

“We see a lot of active and adventure

looking for a nicely decorated room or a fine restaurant anymore. They want

holiday makers this year,” business

unique experiences that they can share with friends and family, and that they

strategy and operations executive, Z&X

will not experience anywhere else.” Speaking to TTG about how Croatia is responding to this move, sales manager, Calvados Club Luxury & Experiential Travel DMC, Croatia, Dolores Jakoliš said: “We have been incorporating authentic and off-the-beaten-track experiences into our programmes recently as part of a sustainable development vision of our company. We take our clients far from the

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UPDATE MEDITERRANEAN ESCAPES

News

Tourism trends in the Mediterranean are not the same in all destinations.

GRAND REOPENING The Phoenicia Malta recently reopened as part of the CampbellGray Hotels portfolio, following a large-scale 15-month restoration refurbishment. Located in the island’s capital, Valletta, the hotel is now a member of Speaking to TTG exclusively about the project was director of sales and

The Leading Hotels of the World. The newly renovated property

marketing, The Phoenicia Malta, Rob Bruno: “In December we will unveil

boasts 136 reimagined guest rooms

our brand-new Health Club and Spa with eight treatment rooms, a state of

and a new outdoor infinity pool. The

the art gym and an indoor pool.”

Grand Ballroom was also refurbished

In June, Malta played host to the Presidency of the European Union,

and The Phoenicia’s classic façade

which according to Bruno, raised a lot of awareness and stimulated

was restored.

interest in the island.

Holiday Villas, Anna Maria Chrysanthou told TTG. “They are into excursions, jeep safaris, water sports and village road tripping.”

UPGRADED FACILITIES

CITY CULTURE And although the Mediterranean is often thought of as an active sea and water sports region, a recent push in the popularity of urban city breaks in the area is helping to keep tourism figures on a constant rise. “Zagreb Tourist Board is supporting the development of new tourism products, but also, we are continuing to improve our existing products such as specialised city tours, festivals and events that are recognised all over Europe

St Raphael Resort and Marina in Limassol, Cyprus, is

EXPANDED FOOTPRINT IN GREECE

gearing up for the summer season following the recent unveiling of newly upgraded facilities. “We have done a lot of work at the hotel this past season and are now ready to launch our two new Presidential Suites on the top floor of the hotel as well as four luxury

in order to increase the awareness of Zagreb’s

Imperial Rooms,” said managing director, St Raphael

tourism offering within our main tourism

Resort and Marina, Limassol, Farah Shammas. “These

markets,” noted CEO, Zagreb Tourist Board,

six new units are brand new and have every luxury and

Martina Bienefeld.

comfort as well as amazing views over our private marina.

“Through collaboration with airline companies,

“We are now looking forward to a busy summer period

such as Emirates Airline, Monarch and Turkish

and come November 2017, we will be closing our doors for a

Airlines, we want to create a partnership that

short four-month period in order to completely renovate all

can contribute to the visibility and further

our front sea facing Marina View Rooms and

promotion of the city as well as city's new

Admiral Suites,” Shammas concluded.

events. One of the key indicators in our business strategy is collaboration and creating a synergy with stakeholders in order to establish quality destination management and ensure sustainability and further tourism growth in Zagreb.” And finally, moving back to Cyprus, to the vibrant, urban Mediterranean escape of

GROUP-WIDE GROWTH

Loutraki.

Louis Hotels grew

Blu, which is situated in the

ollowing the opening of Wyndham Grand Athens in 2016, Wyndham Hotel Group and Zeus International recently announced the opening of

two additional hotels in Greece, in the seaside town of The old Poseidon Resort Hotel has been renovated

exponentially in 2016 and

Pernera area. This great

Limassol, the city’s newly built, luxury marina is

and separated into two resorts, creating the upscale

is set to continue to grow

location offers unobstructed

currently playing a significant role in attracting

Wyndham Loutraki Poseidon Resort, featuring 107 suites,

this year by investing

views of the crystal-clear

visitors and tourists to the area, as marketing

including some with private pools or Jacuzzis, as well as

in the huge tourism

waters of the Mediterranean

and PR manager, Limassol Marina, Sophia

the midscale Ramada Loutraki Poseidon Resort, with a

potential of Cyprus and

and is designed for relaxed

Paraskeva told TTG: “We are still attracting more

total of 196 bungalows and suites.

Greece.

holidays by the beach,” said

than 3,000 visitors daily at the Marina, a number

The two hotels collectively feature five restaurants

General manager

which increases to over 4,000 over the weekend.

and bars, four indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, fitness

sales and marketing,

This brings a steady influx of people to our

centre and a variety of sports facilities, including three

Louis Hotels, Popi Tanta

home to a total of 50 suites

dining, shopping and cultural facilities. We know

tennis courts, a basketball court, mini golf, a playground

exclusively spoke to TTG

offering stunning views.

that a large number of these visitors are coming

for children and a wide variety of water sports.

about the plans for the

to us from other cities and from our hotels, which

Additionally, the resort offers nine conference rooms

rest of 2017: “We are

that Louis Hotels’ Amada

is very encouraging. All the positive development

with a total capacity of 650 people and a stunning open-

continuing on our upward

Colossos Resort in Rhodes

going on in Limassol particularly is also helping

air amphitheater on the beach which can accommodate

path by launching a new

is undergoing a $56 million

to boost visits from nationalities with an affinity

up to 900 people, making it an incredibly desirable

hotel in Protaras, Cyprus,

renovation, before its launch

for the island!”

destination for events.

named Louis Infinity

date in July 2017.

July 2017

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Tanta. The adults-only hotel is

Tanta additionally shared

ON LOCATION INDIA new category of visa – the medical visa or the ‘M visa’, which aims to boost medical tourism in the country. The country witnessed a notable 10.7 per cent increase in its Foreign Tourist Arrivals in 2016, and, as explained by Oakwood India’s Garivala, many companies have invested in the tourism and hospitality sector. “Every month we get to see new start-ups providing travel services and new blogs emerging to inform travellers

BLOSSOMING POWERHOUSE

who are exploring their passion for all things Indian,” Garivala added. Increased air connectivity, a plethora of national and international events, as well as the avid promotion of niche tourism have built upon India’s strengths and are attracting domestic and international visitors to the destination. And while medical tourism is

As India focuses on its tourism strengths and embraces new, game-changing initiatives, the eclectic destination’s seemingly infinite offering continues to flourish. Aleksandra Wood writes

emerging as the key reason for travel to India, the frequency of MENA travellers is ever increasing. Shangri-La Hotel, Bengaluru has remained dedicated to catering to the upsurge in MENA tourists, as explained the hotel’s director of sales and marketing, Rajan Malhotra. “MENA is a very important market

ndia has long been recognised as a travel haven for its peace-loving nature and its 5,000 years of

wellness tourism sector in the next five years. Executive director, Kairali Ayurvedic Group, Abhilash Ramesh

for our company as it makes up a fifth of India’s outbound tourists. We have

cultural history. This unrivalled destination is the

shed light on the wellness movement: “What’s trending now

dedicated individuals who can speak

birthplace of four religions and represents the

is Ayurveda, yoga and meditation, which is part of medical

Arabic and all of our communication is

and wellness tourism. We have seen massive growth due to

translated and made available in Arabic

world’s largest democracy.

wider acceptance in quality and effective treatments that India

for their convenience. Since a lot of

and religions, revel in the heavenly beaches,

provides. Yoga is now officially promoted by our government

medical tourism comes from MENA,

mountains, flora and fauna, or live it up at one of the

and has helped put India on the world map for wellness. Both

we have worked with many hospitals

country’s extraordinary festivals, India is ready to

Yoga and Ayurveda are the DNA of all other products and

to ensure that they can assume their

embrace even the most discerning traveller.

services associated.”

medical routines with ease,” Malhotra

Whether visiting to discover a rainbow of cultures

“From the Himalayas to the desert of Rajasthan,

He continued: “There are many natural health resorts that

declared. While the steady growth in

from the natural beauty of Kerala to the cultural

help the tourist to detox and indulge in nature’s serenity, helping

intensity of Varanasi, India offers something for

them to relax whilst taking full care of their health. These cannot

international arrivals continues, the

everyone,” noted director of operations, Oakwood

be replicated or lost to any other destination in the world. Hence,

increase in demand for bespoke and

India, Hoshang Garivala.

they are at the helm of driving traction to India tourism.”

unique travel experiences, the evolution

“India is famous for being one of the most

India’s Ministry of Tourism is closely monitoring this new

of niche tourism and the development

ancient civilization centres of the world, renowned

trend, actively working to identify, diversify, develop and

of industry-related technology keep

worldwide for its many gods and their rich history

promote the niche products that the country offers.

India on its toes. “Our incredible legacy of history,

and influence on life, even in modern times.” Eager to elevate its portfolio, the destination’s tourism entities are working hand in hand to

INVESTING IN INDIA

tradition and craftsmanship has helped strengthen the country’s position

adopt significant changes to complement India’s

Meanwhile, the country’s Government has also taken interest

as one of the most preferred tourist

untouchable heritage.

in investing in the fruiful tourism industry, putting its best foot

destinations,” said general manager,

forward in terms of campaigns, promotions and advertising.

the Taj Mahal Hotel, Satyajeet Krishnan.

SPOTLIGHT ON ‘NICHE TOURISM’

“There has been a positive change in the perception of the

“Visitors to India want to soak in

benefits of tourism in the minds of planners, policy makers and

the true spirit of India’s legendary

Perhaps the ever-most prominent focus for India’s

the State Government in India. Some new international and

hospitality and its royal heritage, and

tourism industry is the evolution of cruise tourism

domestic 360 degree campaigns by ‘Incredible India’ added a

I personally believe that this shall only

and ecotourism, medical tourism, and most

push in the marketing platform,” revealed general manager,

enhance and evolve in the near future.”

importantly, wellness tourism.

Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla, Ranjan Banerjee.

The country has made a name for itself as one

“After the effective and improved visa process to travel to

With positive changes lighting the

of the leading wellness destinations globally, and,

India in 2014, there is a rise in foreign visitors. Once the policy

way, the destination is inevitably set

according to a study conducted by SRI International,

gets extended to more than 100 nationalities in the coming year,

to further thrive, enticing travellers

India is set to be the fastest growing nation in the

there will be a positive change in the tourist arrival numbers.”

the world over to take a peek into the

In addition to this, the Indian Government has introduced a

16 July 2017

ttgmena.com

mystical land of incredible India.

6-8 Nov 2017

Discover the world WTM London 2016 attracted more than

5,000 exhibitors

Travel partners

Official Media Partner

* Source: Independent research by Fusion Communications, January 2017 **ABC audited figures, February 2017 World Travel Market, WTM, RELX Group and the RE symbol are trademarks of Reed Elsevier Properties SA, used under license.

Meet the world's travel buyers in

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SPOTLIGHT BALKANS With its diverse range of charms, the Balkans region readies itself for a successful tourism season ahead

A PROMISING START Having recently opened its doors for business, co-founder, Bosnian Holidays, Abdullah J. Al Kulaib speaks to Natalie Hami about how the company plans to promote the unique destination to the MENA market

: Which tourism segments will you be focusing on this

We recently offered special Eid packages and are also promoting winter packages tailored for GCC

year and why?

tourists, to give them an unforgettable experience

Bosnia & Herzegovina is an ideal family friendly destination.

Our focus is on families and couples living in the GCC. Bosnia

with value for money. The packages include everything

and Herzegovina is an ideal family friendly destination with

from fruit picking trips to honeymoons in Bosnia and

breathtaking nature featuring mountains, forests and rivers. It

Herzegovina. We can arrange all types of holiday

also has amazing food that is halal and suitable for GCC tourists.

accommodation needs for GCC tourists such as family villas and five-star hotels at competitive rates.

: Tell us about which feeder markets you’ll be working on for the rest of the year. How will you be attracting them?

this year? Due to its unique mix of western and eastern culture, Bosnia and Herzegovina can cater to Middle Eastern tourists by offering

Our approach during our first year is to build

them some familiar cultural elements that make them feel at

awareness and familiarity of our brand in the GCC via

home in a European setting.

social media, as well as establish a network of strategic

Our focus is the GCC market, as we offer dedicated services

FOCUS ON MENA

partnerships with local travel agencies in the GCC

in Bosnia tailored to visitors from the six states. These include

markets, so that they can then plug into our distinctive

Arabic speaking tour guides and drivers.

offers.

MAGICAL SETTING Sarajevo will soon be

Center project, consisting of

welcoming a new addition

a shopping mall and office

to its luxury hospitality

tower. Swissôtel Sarajevo

landscape with the

will enjoy a commanding

opening of Swissôtel

downtown commercial and

Sarajevo, scheduled for

residential location, close to

2018.

top attractions and Sarajevo

Swissôtel has

International Airport.

entered into a franchise

Guests will enjoy all-glass

agreement with Al Shiddi

views of the town and

s tourism in Greece continues to grow, Amalia

International for the

mountains, and completing

Hotels has revealed that for 2017 visitors to the

development of the new

the guest experience will

properties are expected to rise by 15 per cent

218-room property, which

be a private executive club,

compared to 2016, with leisure groups from the US and

will be situated next to

three dining outlets, the

Germany leading the way.

the Bosnian Parliament.

brand’s signature Pürovel

The property will stand

Spa & Sport and 500m2 of

explained that the group is focusing on the Middle East

within the expansive

indoor meeting space with

market this year with special promotions.

mixed-use Sarajevo City

function areas.

Director of sales, Amalia Hotels, Nikos Lianoudakis

: What strategy will you be implementing

20 July 2017

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SUMMER PROMOTIONS

With summer now in full swing, TTG uncovers the most tempting seasonal promotions within the REGION.

Summer Daycation package

European Summer 2017 in Bodrum

Those wishing to relieve themselves of Dubai’s summer heat can opt for Jumeirah Zabeel Saray’s Summer Daycation package, valid until August 31. Hotel guests and visitors can avail of beach and pool access, a spa treatment and leisure experiences from sunrise to sunset. Talise Ottoman Spa will offer a 45-minute Turkish hammam experience or 45-minute Sultan’s Massage treatment, and guests can also enjoy the spa’s many facilities. An international set lunch at Sultan’s Lounge Private Dining Room is also included in the package and children will also gain access Sinbad’s Kids Club.

The luxurious Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay Bodrum in Turkey is promoting its European Summer 2017 offer, granting a 15 per cent discount on the flexible daily rate when booking a three-night stay or more before September 30, 2017. Travellers opting for this generous offer can also enjoy a mouth-watering buffet breakfast at Olives Restaurant as well as access to the blissful Sanitas Spa. Those wishing to redeem this offer must book three days prior to arrival.

Romance Package

Discover Asia

A ‘Day of Fun’

Best Western Hotels & Resorts has shed light on its new ‘Discover Asia’ promotion. Throughout 2017, travellers booking two consecutive nights at any

Available until December 30 and perfect for couples, The

participating Best Western hotel in Asia will benefit

Dubai’s Atlantis, The Palm has shed light on a thrilling

Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal is promoting its

from a complimentary third night, inclusive of in-

marine and waterpark summer ‘Day of Fun’ for families.

special Romance Package.

room Wifi. Some participating hotels may also offer

Love birds can stay in a luxurious one-bedroom villa for a romantic getaway in serene surroundings. Included in the

daily breakfast.

The tempting summer promotion is made up of four unique packages including: Aquaventure admission, The Lost

Guests will be granted the option to experience

Chambers admission and a meal deal; Aquaventure admission,

package is access to the private beach or pool cabana; a

many highly sought-after Asian destinations,

The Lost Chambers admission, a dolphin encounter (shallow

daily buffet breakfast for two at Giornotte restaurant; early

including Bangkok and Phuket in Thailand; Bali and

water activity) and a meal deal; Aquaventure admission, The

check-in and late check-out; romantic room décor; personal

Malang in Indonesia; Boracay and Puerto Princesa

Lost Chambers admission, a dolphin adventure (deep water

butler services; a platter of strawberries dipped in chocolate

in Palawan, both in the Philippines; Inle Lake in

activity) and a Meal Deal; and Aquaventure admission, Lost

upon arrival; and more.

Myanmar; and Tokyo and Okinawa in Japan.

Chambers admission, sea lion discovery and a meal deal.

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opened its arms to Pasquale Baiguera, who has assumed the position of general manager. Baiguera joins the team with more than three decades of hospitality experience, spanning the Middle East, Denmark, Finland and Italy. His most recent position was that of general manager at Mövenpick Hotel Beirut in Lebanon, where he served for three years.

CORPORATE VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

Representing The Rezidor

Rotana has appointed De-

Hotel Group’s first Saudi

clan Hurley as its new corpo-

female general manager,

rate vice president of sales.

Maram Kokandi has been

Hurley joins Rotana from

named the general manager

The Ritz-Carlton, where he

of the Park Inn by Radisson

served as vice president –

Jeddah Madinah Road in

international sales office for

Saudi Arabia, which is sched-

the Europe, Middle East and

uled to inaugurate later on in

Asia Pacific region.

the year. Kokandi studied hospitality management in the UK and has held a number of hospitality positions in Saudi Arabia.

24 July 2017

In his new capacity, he will lead the development and execution of strategies and will take charge of Rotana’s sales offices across the globe.

ttgmena.com

KABALAN FRANGIEH

ROYAL TULIP ACHRAFIEH

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain has

GENERAL MANAGER

ROTANA

GENERAL MANAGER

DECLAN HURLEY

MARAM KOKANDI

PARK INN BY RADISSON JEDDAH MADINAH ROAD

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN

PASQUALE BAIGUERA

GENERAL MANAGER Lebanon’s Royal Tulip Achrafieh has embraced Kabalan Frangieh as general manager. Frangieh has held various positions with InterContinental Hotels Group, Millennium and Copthorne and Al Habtoor Group in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Eritrea and Qatar. He is experienced in hotel openings and previously served as the general manager of Copthorne Hotel Doha and Kingsgate Hotel Doha.

ibar

SOCIAL HUB

SOCIAL MEDIA HIGHLIGHTS: THE HOLY MONTH

This Ramadan, messages of positivity and unity flooded our social media platforms, with various travel and tourism entities launching initiatives and projects dedicated to the Holy Month. Here are some of our top picks… ExperienceEgypt @ExperienceEgypt Lentil Soup is one of the most famous ways that Egyptians start with to break their fast in Ramadan.

Mövenpick Al Mamzar @MovenpickMamzar Mövenpick Hotel Apartments Al Mamzar distributes Iftar meal boxes to our dear Dubai taxi drivers today! #Ramadan #movenpick #Iftar #dubai The St. Regis Doha @StRegisDoha May your family grow closer and stronger this #Ramadan. Ramadan Kareem! #stregisdoha #ramadanmomentsdoha