27 JANUARY 2018 ISSUE 429

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03 WEEKLY NEWS Crystal Lagoons to Target Oman

directoryoffers.traveltradedaily.com MARSEILIA GROUP AND AMLAK LE GRAND 06 FINANCE SIGN MOU 08 OPENS MARKET UPDATE www.traveltradeweekly.travel

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MANAGING EDITOR GLOBAL ECONOMY TO GROW Mary Kammitsi [email protected] The global economy is set to grow by almost four percent this year in purchasing PRESS Efi Rousi Maria Angelica Constantinou power parity terms adding an extra USD5 trillion to global output at current values, Athena Karsera Yiazou according to new projections in PwC’s Global Economy Watch. CONTRIBUTOR Dominique Christou

DESIGN & LAYOUT Elena Stylianou

WEB & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Savvas Kammitsis

DIRECTORS Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi

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

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WORLDWIDE REPRESENTATIVES Representative for North, South & Central America, and the Caribbean: Neil Strickland GlobeTM Tel: +19542969515, [email protected] he main engines of the global economy, the US, emerging Asia and the Eurozone, are expected to contribute almost 70 percent of economic growth this year compared to their post-2000 average of around 60 percent. Representative for Indian subcontinent: Faredoon Kuka Growth in the Eurozone is predicted to be above two percent this year, as PwC expects the peripheral econo- RMA Media mies to outpace the core for the fifth consecutive year. The Netherlands is expected to lead the way with eco- Tel: +912229253735, [email protected] T nomic growth at around 2.5 percent, while the UK growth is predicted to be 1.4 percent this year. Representative for UK & Ireland and Scandinavia: David Simpson Simpson Media Tel: +447900885456, [email protected] PASSENGERS INCREASE IN MIDDLE EAST AIRPORTS

MENA EXCHANGE RATES In October 2017, passenger traffic at Asia-Pacific and Middle Eastern as of 25.1.2018 airports increased by 8.1 percent and 3.3 percent respectively com- COUNTRY CURRENCY USD1= pared to the same period in 2016.

Bahrain (BHD) Dinar 0.37 (JOD) Dinar 0.71 Oman (OMR) Rial 0.39 n the Middle East, passenger traffic Qatar (QAR) Rial 3.64 continued to show mixed results in Oc- (SAR) Riyal 3.75 tober 2017. Passenger traffic growth UAE (AED) Dirham 3.67 at was at 6.9 percent increase, Algeria (DZD) Dinar 113.61 I its strongest since April 2017. Doha saw (EGP) Pound 17.69 14.3 percent decrease while Muscat and Iran (IRR) Rial 36,547.26 Kuwait were the bright spots in the Mid- Iraq (IQD) Dinar 1,183.81 Kuwait (KWD) Dinar 0.30 dle East during October 2017 reporting Lebanon (LBP) Pound 1,511.01 growth of 19.4 percent and 17.2 percent Libya (LYD) Dinar 1.33 respectively. Morocco (MAD) Dirham 9.15 In terms of air freight, Asia-Pacific and Syria (SYP) Pound 515.01 Middle East grew 2.6 percent and 1.3 per- Tunisia (TND) Dinar 2.39 cent respectively in October 2017. Yemen (YER) Rial 250.32

2 27 JANUARY 2018 www.traveltradeweekly.travel WEEKLY NEWS

Oman

Crystal Lagoons to Target Oman

CRYSTAL LAGOONS HAS IDENTIFIED OMAN’S HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM MARKET, WHICH IS EXPECTED TO SEE

INVESTMENT OF UPWARDS he technology has already proven to be a major success in the GCC, par- OF USD1.7 BILLION BY 2026, ticularly in Oman, where Alargan Towell Investment Company has started ACCORDING TO work on a 50 ha multi-million-dollar, mixed-use development. Crystal La- goons will build a 40 ha lagoon as part of the project; the centrepiece to TRAVEL AND TOURISM three hotels, serviced apartments, a mixed-use souk and a host of other COUNCIL. Tamenities. Carlos Salas, regional director, Middle East, Crystal Lagoons, said, “Developing Oman’s tourism industry is a top priority for the government, investment is likely to see a number of recognised hospitality brands coming into the market.”

Dubai Safari Welcomes UAE Dignitaries Maritime Advisory Council First Stage Completed

he Au- thority has completed the T first term of the Maritime Advisory Council which formed the initial stage for the develop- ment of an integrated framework for activating the partnership be- tween the government and pri- vate sectors. The partnership involves are- as that affect the competitiveness, attractiveness and comprehen- siveness of the maritime sector as Dubai evolves into one of the world's best maritime capitals. The two-year initial phase of hard work and close coordina- Lootah along with other members at Dubai Safari team tion among maritime stakehold- ers, has led to the creation of new ussain Nasser Lootah, director general, Dubai Municipality, along with other members of the Dubai Safari team features of the Maritime Advisory welcomed the UAE dignitaries and VIPs to Dubai Safari. As part of the visit, Lootah hosted a tour of the 119 ha Council which is emerging as one H park, including stops at the Arabian Village, African Village as well as the open Safari Village, in addition to what of the most important strategic is hailed to be UAE’s largest walk-through aviary, which is home to more than 25 species of birds. initiatives under the umbrella of “It was our honour to host them and give them a tour of the various villages and activities that make Dubai Safari the Dubai Maritime sector strat- a must-visit experience for both UAE residents as well as visitors from around the world. We are delighted by their egy. positive response and extend our deepest gratitude for their constant support and guidance,” said Lootah.

27 JANUARY 2018 3 AIRPORTS www.traveltradeweekly.travel

JCDecaux Partners with Dubai Airports

ubai Duty Free, Dubai Airports and JCDecaux an- nounced a partnership introducing a new Drive- D to-Store, data driven advertising offer at Dubai International Airport on January 01. This collaboration aims at building a new eco-sys- tem based on advertising, airport and travel retail data in order to deliver an optimised advertising schedul- ing system and boost campaign efficiency. Data is cur- rently changing the selling process and becomes a key element in defining the value of the media proposition. The advertising offer will enhance the impact and the efficiency of the existing media proposition at Dubai International Airport. Through a new data eco- system, the right advertising message will be displayed at the right time, in the right location to the right audi- Dubai Duty Free ence.

Bahrain Air- port Company Dubai Airports Awarded Five Stars Celebrates Jet

Airways .H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed sessment process conducted under the aegis Anniversary Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, crown prince, of the prime minister’s office. H Dubai, unveiled classification plates “We are honoured to receive this recogni- rating the Al Majlis VIP Service and Terminal tion for the quality of the service we provide 3 at Dubai International as five-star service to millions of customers that travel though ahrain Airport Company, facilities under the Global Star Rating Pro- our facilities each year. This acknowledge- operator and managing gramme. ment will go a long way in encouraging em- B body of Bahrain Interna- Launched in 2012, the programme as- ployees of Dubai Airports and our stakehold- tional Airport, celebrated the sesses and measures the performance of er to ensure the consistent delivery of quality 10th anniversary of its part- each department’s service centre on a scale customer service across the airport,” said Al nership with Jet Airways. A of two to seven stars, through an official as- Maktoum. ceremony was held at Bahrain International Airport to mark the occasion, which was at- tended by senior officials from Bahrain Airport Company and Jet Airways. “Our partnership with Jet Airways has been one of our most fruitful, helping us rein- force the Kingdom’s position as a hub for airlines in the re- gion. It has also played an im- portant role in strengthening bilateral relations between Bahrain and India. We are con- fident that our continued as- sociation with Jet Airways will bring many more successes in the future,” said Ayman Zainal, chief operating officer, Bahrain Airport Company.

Dubai International Airport

4 27 JANUARY 2018 www.traveltradeweekly.travel TECHNOLOGY

Knowcross Partners Klook Launches Visa and Dynamics with INTEREL to Mobile Pass for Airport Unveil Wallet Card Enhance Guest Experience Express Train

nowcross has announced the integration isa and Dynamics unveiled the Dynamics of its guest request management system look has announced the rollout of a Wallet Card, a connected payment card, K with INTEREL, the guest room manage- QR-code enabled Mobile Pass for Hong V at the Consumer Electronics Show, which ment systems provider for the hospitality indus- K Kong Airport Express. The new feature began on January 09 and ran until January 12. try. will further bridge the ever present gap be- The Visa-branded version of the Wallet Card With this integration, guest requests made tween online and offline, offering travellers is the same size and shape as a normal Visa from the INTEREL glass switches in the room can a more convenient way to access Hong Kong credit or debit card, yet it incorporates multiple be processed identically to requests made from Airport Express. This marks a new milestone in features and technologies not previously found a guest mobile app, or a phone call or e-mail. Klook’s efforts in making Hong Kong a smart in a single payment card. All inbound requests are then fed into KNOW city through technological innovation in tour- Features of the Wallet Card range from the Service for tracking, resulting in higher quality ism. capacity to access multiple cards –whether service delivery, faster response rate, increased With the Klook mobile application, travel- contactless or magnetic stripe-base, to a pro- operational efficiency and lowered costs. lers to Hong Kong can access the gates direct- grammable on-card display that enables ac- The INTEREL system also enables guests to ly with the Mobile Pass, skipping the queue at count information, such as alerts or coupons, make requests for make up room, butler servic- the counters. The Mobile Pass, which is made to be sent to the cardholder via an embedded es and more at the touch of a button. With the available for offline access on the application, antenna. Wallet Card includes a cell phone chip integration with Knowcross, such requests will is aimed at improving Hong Kong Airport Ex- and cell phone antenna so data can be trans- now flow directly into the hotels existing opera- press’s operational efficiency while ensuring ferred between Wallet Card and a consumer’s tional workflows via KNOW Service, enabling in- travellers the most seamless and fastest expe- bank anywhere in the world and at any time of creased staff efficiency and an improved guest rience to and from the airport. the day. experience.

27 JANUARY 2018 5 WEEKLY NEWS www.traveltradeweekly.travel

Marseilia Group and Amlak Finance Sign MoU

arseilia Group announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding M (MoU) with Amlak Finance, for the de- velopment of a comprehensive urban project on a land plot owned by Amlak Finance at Nasr City in . The project is located on Al Nasr Street and in front of Al Ahly club and will extend over 42,676 m2. The project will be a compre- hensive urban development and will include a residential and an administration building, a shopping mall designed in accordance with international standards, and a fully serviced and equipped hotel, in addition to areas dedi- cated to social activities. The MoU was signed by Yasser Ragab, chairman, Marseilia Group, Arif Alharmi, CEO, Amlak Finance, and Hisham Okasha, chair- man, National bank of Egypt, at the headquar- Marseilia Group and Amlak Finance agreement ters of the National Bank of Egypt in Cairo.

Arabian Travel Market 2017 Green Key Certified Target by Emaar Hospi- tality Group

maar Hospitality Group and Rove Hotels, a joint venture E of Meraas Holding and Emaar Properties, have joined hands with Emirates Green Building Council (GBC) to secure the Green Key certi- fication for all its operational hotels and leisure assets in Dubai. Emirates GBC is the UAE’s nation- al operator Green Key certification, a standard of excellence in the field of Russian Visitors to GCC to Increase environmental sustainability and sus- tainable operation. Initially, Emaar Hospital- ity Group and Rove Hotels aim to he number of Russian tourists travelling to the by Russia’s decision to cut oil production, which has have 15 hospitality and leisure as- GCC in 2020 is expected to be 38 percent high- supported an oil price recovery to over USD60 per bar- sets in Dubai Green Key certified. T er than the arrival figures recorded for 2016, ac- rel, while forecasts for this year put oil at an average of These will include all operational cording to data published by Arabian Travel Market, USD57 per barrel, a 5.6 percent increase over 2017. hotels under the three lifestyle ho- which will take place this year at Dubai World Trade Russian visitors to the exhibition increased 17 tel brands under Emaar Hospitality Centre from April 22 – 25. percent year-on-year between 2016 and 2017, and Group and Emaar Leisure Group as- Looking at the economic drivers, the value of the 9.4 percent of total visitors last year were interested in sets, such as Golf Russian rouble is stable and firming gradually, helped doing business with Russia. Club and Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, in addition to all Rove hotels. Grand Millennium Business Hotel

6 27 JANUARY 2018

ACCOMMODATION www.traveltradeweekly.travel

Nakheel and AccorHotels Sign Management Agreement

aster developer Nakheel, and Ac- corHotels have signed a manage- Le Grand Amman M ment agreement for ibis Dubai Jumeirah Village Circle, further strength- Opens ening their partnership for Dubai hospital- ity projects. The agreement, inked by Ali Rashid Lootah, chairman, Nakheel, and Olivier Granet, chief operating officer, Middle East AccorHotels announced and Africa, AccorHotels, is the third col- the rebranding of a laboration between the two companies. The 252-room ibis Dubai Jumeirah Vil- landmark hotel in lage Circle, expected to open in 2021, will Jordan to Le Grand provide an 11,706 m2 economy hospitality Amman. offering, with an all-day restaurant, cafe, fitness centre, meeting room and car park.

he property consists of 298-rooms and 67 serviced apartments and is located in close proximity to the upcoming Abdali Downtown Project. The hotel also features two specialty restaurants, an all-day dining restau- T rant, a lobby lounge and bar, along with a pool bar. Guests can enjoy the spa or focus on wellness through the health club, indoor and outdoor pools. Business travellers also have access to eight meeting rooms in addition to the largest ballroom in Amman for large-scale events and family occasions. Sami Nasser, chief operating officer, luxury brands, Middle East, AccorHotels, said, ibis Dubai Jumeirah Village Circle “This opening signifies the strategic expansion of our luxury portfolio in Jordan.”

Sheraton Grand Hotel, Dubai Launches Soul Wellness & Spa

heraton Grand Hotel, Dubai has introduced the Soul Wellness & Spa, a new holistic concept S that aims to balance mind, body and soul. The venue decor focuses on earthy elements in- cluding verdant greens and the warm hues of bark, echoing the scent of Arabian sandalwood. To boost the therapeutic effect, each treatment is followed by a complimentary 10-minute guided meditation ex- perience designed to increase creativity and relaxa- tion. “Healthy food and drinks prepared by Sheraton chefs are being served at the venue, with refresh- ments included in some treatment packages,” said Nikolina Jungic, spa consultant, Soul Wellness & Spa. “We also have a selection of self-development and mindfulness books for clients to browse and read in their own time. By investing in your mind, you will Sheraton Grand Hotel, Dubai leave our spa not only rejuvenated but also inspired.”

8 27 JANUARY 2018 www.traveltradeweekly.travel ACCOMMODATION

Nakheel and RIU Sign Contract Mövenpick to Open Basra Property

From left: Akeel Ibraheem Al-Khalidy, chairman, committee on economic development and investment, Basra Council, and Olivier Chavy, CEO, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts

övenpick Hotels & Resorts will open a new property in Basra early this year, namely the 152-key five-star Mövenpick Hotel Basra. M The property will be strategically located in the centre of Basra, within the commercial district of Al Baradi'yah and 25km west of Basra In- ternational Airport. The address will feature rooms and suites, dining venues and facilities that target corporate guests, investors and local companies operating in Basra. Rendering of RIU Hotel Deira Islands Amenities will include one all-day dining outlet and one specialty res- taurant; an executive lounge; a meetings and events area featuring a 700 m2 akheel and RIU Hotels & Resorts have signed a contract worth USD104,8 ballroom, a swimming pool, gym, spa, and beauty salon; and a retail area. million for the construction of their 800-room, joint venture beachfront N resort and water park at Deira Islands in Dubai. Set for delivery in 2019, the resort will be built by Bin Ladin Contracting Group Dubai, which was chosen from a shortlist of 10 contractors who bid for the project. Construction will be completed by 2020. Under the joint venture, Nakheel and RIU Hotels & Resorts will deliver a new hospitality concept for Dubai, offering mid-scale, family-orientated, all-inclusive beachfront accommodation. The resort, RIU’s first in the Middle East, will be one of Dubai’s biggest in terms of hotel rooms.

Al Hamra Makes Donation to the UAE

he hospitality division of Ras own business philosophy of how Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Group, a responsible corporate citizen T celebrated the dawning of a should support the less fortunate new year by launching its first cor- in society.” porate social responsibility (CSR) initiative of this year. The company has donated a variety of household goods to three major charities namely the Emirates Red Crescent, Rahmath Charitable Trust and Dar Al Ber Society. Benoy Kurien, general manag- er, Al Hamra Group, said, “Through- out the year we will be supporting a number of initiatives at both a Barry Ebrahimy, head, commercial, local and national level. This is in Al Hamra Real Estate Development, line with not just our CSR strategy, and Ibrahim Al Shamsi, director, but it is very much a part of our Emirates Red Crescent, reprectively

27 JANUARY 2018 9 AIR www.traveltradeweekly.travel

Valencia Oman Air's Air Algerie to Record-Breaking Operate Valencia Engine Change

Route man Air has been praised by GE Aviation for its record-breaking O Boeing 787 engine change after Responding to the procedure was completed in just 20 tourists’ interests, hours. The success was acknowledged at Air Algérie has the Dubai Airshow, where Ali Redha announced a Valencia Mohammed Al Lawatiya, executive vice schedule for this year. president, engineering and mainte- nown for its arts and sciences, with futuristic struc- nance, Oman Air was presented with a The airline intends to tures including a planetarium, an oceanarium and commendation. operate the Valencia an interactive museum, Valencia is a growing des- Improvement has also been service twice a week, K tination. achieved on the B737 fleet, previously Meeting the requirements of today’s challenging mar- requiring the heavy maintenance (C- from June 17 to ket, Air Algérie features the latest advanced design, said to check) approximately every 24 months. September 13 with a be very cost-efficient, reliable and capable single-aisle air- The team with Boeing’s support has planes. Along with facilitating an improved passenger ex- managed to escalate the heavy mainte- Boeing B737-600. perience, the airline’s addition to the carrier’s flight frequen- nance interval to 36 months and for the cies and destinations aims to elevate the quality of services A-check maintenance to 120 days. across the Air Algérie’s expanding network.

10 27 JANUARY 2018 www.traveltradeweekly.travel AIR

Boeing and Turkish Airlines Announce New Order

oeing and Turkish Airlines announced that the carrier ordered three more B B777 Freighters in December 2017. The new order came weeks after the carrier took delivery of two of the large cargo jets as part of its plan to further ex- pand its freight business. Royal Jordanian Adds Seven Global Cities The B777 Freighter is said to be the world's longest-range twin-engine freight- er and is based on the B777-200LR passen- oyal Jordanian expanded its codeshare agree- Royal Jordanian’s Amman - Istanbul flights. ger airplane. The airplane's range capabil- ments with Turkish Airlines and Malaysia Air- The codeshare expansion with Malaysia Airlines gives ity translates into significant savings for R lines, giving its guests the option to travel to Royal Jordanian passengers access to four new destina- airlines; fewer stops and associated land- more destinations. tions; Langkawi, Penang, Sydney and Melbourne, all sold ing fees, less congestion at transfer hubs, The expansion of the codeshare agreement with in connection with Royal Jordanian’s Kuala Lumpur flight. lower cargo handling costs and shorter Turkish Airlines, which has been in place since 2015, Stefan Pichler, president, Royal Jordanian, said, cargo delivery times. added three new cities to Royal Jordanian passen- “Codeshare agreements with global airlines [...] of- "These freighter orders will surely con- gers' list of potential destinations, namely, Milan, So- fer an improved passenger experience and enhance tribute to our significant target for estab- fia and Sarajevo, which are sold in connection with competitiveness.” lishing a young and efficient cargo fleet," said İlker Aycı, chairman, board and execu- tive committee, Turkish Airlines.

27 JANUARY 2018 11 AIR www.traveltradeweekly.travel

Oman Air to Issue License Through MPL Qatar Airways Qsuite Comes to Washington D.C.

atar Airways’ Qsuite has officially landed at Washington Dulles International Airport, the second US destination to offer the new business class product. Q Qsuite features the industry’s first-ever double bed in business class, as well as privacy panels that stow away, allowing passengers in adjoining seats to create their own private room. Qsuite was first introduced on flights to London’s Heathrow Airport and Paris- Charles de Gaulle Airport and made its US debut at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport in December 2017. Akbar Al Baker, group CEO, Qatar Airways, commented, “[…]We are thrilled to kick off the new year by extending the outstanding offerings of Qsuite to our dedicated business and leisure travellers in the Washington, D.C. area.”

man Air has taken the initiative to em- brace the Multi-Crew Pilot License Pro- O gramme (MPL) in close coordination with the Public Authority for Civil Aviation (PACA) to issue the first Omani Pilot License. The programme is designed and custom- ised for Oman Air training in accordance with PACA rules and regulations pertaining to the approved Pilot Training. Oman Air achieved an important milestone in 2016 when the state- of-the-art Oman Air Flight Training Centre was inaugurated. There are currently over 20 cadets enrolled in the MPL programme, distributed in various batches on a full scholarship abroad. The ca- Qatar Airways’ Qsuite dets were assessed in accordance with Oman Air selection criteria that included theoretical and practical competency-based assessment.

SaudiGulf Announces International Operations

audiGulf Airlines has announced it will launch its international opera- S tions in March. These will begin with two daily flights from to Dubai, followed by four destinations in , namely , , Peshawar, and , from its hub in . Samer Majali, CEO, SaudiGulf Airlines, said, “After the successful launch of Sau- diGulf Airlines which brought a new level of service to passengers travelling domes- tically between Riyadh, Dammam, and , in Saudi Arabia, with up to ap- proximately 200 weekly flights and a one million seat capacity to date, SaudiGulf Air- lines is now ready to take this performance to an international stage.”

12 27 JANUARY 2018 www.traveltradeweekly.travel AMERICAS INTERNATIONAL

Airbnb Expects Columbus Princess Cruises Debuts Upgraded Growth Star Princess

irbnb’s Travel Trends report for this year has identified tar Princess has returned to service following a two-week multi- Columbus, Ohio as one of the hottest growth markets million-dollar renovation. worldwide for users of the home-sharing service. Resuming a season of 15-day Hawaiian Island cruises Ohio's capital city is expected to see a booking roundtrip from Los Angeles and Vancouver through April before surge of 254 percent for the first three months of summer cruising in Alaska, Star Princess guests will enjoy up- Athis year, compared with the same period of 2017. In the US, Sdated offerings. that places Columbus just behind Indianapolis at 256 percent. Combining the science of sleep with design, the Princess Luxury Bed has Globally, Columbus ranks sixth place for growth, and with been added to the cruise’ amenities as well as other general refurnishing up- the Winter Olympics approaching, Gangneung, Korea is in first grades of carpet and upholstery which can be found throughout Star Princess. place with 2,175 percent growth. Other features include the enhancements to the shops, offering an up- Columbus was also the top Ohio market for Airbnb in 2017, graded shopping experience, the development of Lotus Spa & Fitness Cent- a year that saw the number of people renting the service’s er, a new casino and a newly developed menu for Sabatini's Italian Trattoria. rooms and houses surge by 96 percent.

New Zipline at Grand Canyon West Memphis Cook Convention

Center to Undergo Renovation rand Canyon West continues to add new experiences for its guests with the latest addition of a pair of ziplines that will let adventurers soar nearly 304,8 m above the floor of a side canyon located amid the West Rim’s matchless scenery. The zipline at Grand Canyon West, which opened on Janu- Gary 02, consists of two quad ziplines, each with four steel cables running side-by-side in parallel formation, to allow groups to soar above the floor at speeds approaching 80 km per hour. The first of the two lines measures about 335 m in length, while the second line, set at a steeper grade, propels guests on a 640 m long downhill adventure of a lifetime, complete with views of nearby Quartermaster Can- yon and rushing scenery above and below.

Memphis Cook Convention Center Carnival Corporation Brands to he city of Memphis has officially filed a USD175 mil- Launch New Ships lion construction permit for a ground up transforma- tion of the Memphis Cook Convention Center that will kick-off in the first quarter of this year, and wrap arnival Corporation has announced it will launch four new up construction in the fourth quarter of 2019. Jim cruise ships this year, across four of its 10 leading global TStrickland, mayor, Memphis, announced plans for the project, brands - AIDA Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America pending the city council’s approval, to coincide with the city’s Line and Seabourn. bicentennial year as part of the Bicentennial Gateway. The new ships are part of Carnival Corporation's ongoing Architectural firm Looney Ricks Kiss and tvsdesign have col- Cfleet enhancement strategy with 18 new ships scheduled for delivery be- laborated to develop a design plan that utilises and enhances tween 2018 and 2022 – creating excitement in the vacation market and the existing facility. Their vision is to expand the footprint of the continuing to exceed guest expectations while accelerating demand for building with outdoor terraces and glass enclosed concourses, cruising, the fastest growing segment in the vacation industry. pre-function and meetings spaces that embrace the river and "On top of the three new ships we launched in 2017, we look forward to skyline views, while adding valuable square footage that in- the delivery of four more spectacular ships that will help us continue provid- cludes additional breakout meeting rooms, allowing more ing extraordinary cruise vacations at an exceptional value for our guests," meeting and convention opportunities. said Roger Frizzell, chief communications officer, Carnival Corporation.

27 JANUARY 2018 13 INTERNATIONAL AMERICAS www.traveltradeweekly.travel

Home2 Suites by Hilton Springfield avid Hotels New North Debuts Property in Oklahoma

nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) celebrated its new midscale brand, avid hotels in Oklahoma. Projected to open by the end of the third quarter of 2018, the avid hotel Oklahoma City Quail Springs will be a four-story, new-build Ihotel with 87 guest rooms, and will be owned and operated by Oklahoma-based Champion Hotels. Elie Maalouf, CEO, US, IHG, said, “avid hotels extends IHG’s leadership in the mainstream hotel market. The brand’s appeal to owners and develop- ers clearly demonstrates IHG is trusted to identify Home2 Suites by Hilton Springfield North and deliver a new midscale hotel brand that is right for guests and owners. avid hotels is scaling rapidly, ome2 Suites by Hilton has opened Home2 Suites by Hilton Spring- and is scheduled to open its first hotel by the end of field North, bringing the brand one step closer to its 200th property summer, months ahead of original projections.” milestone. Designed for travellers wanting to maintain their normal routine, the hotel features 99 suites and a range of value, tech-focused and Heco-conscious amenities. The property offers all-suite accommodations with fully equipped kitchens and modular furniture. Amongst other facilities, it also features complimentary Internet, communal spaces, a combined laundry and fitness area, business centre, indoor saline pool, fire pit, grill area and outdoor walking trails. Guests also have convenient access to Route 66 Car Museum, Dickerson Park Construction on newest hotel brand Zoo, and the largest Bass Pro Shop.

United Airlines Opera- Kimpton Hotels Announces Adapted tional Performance Indianapolis Hotel

nited Airlines reported the opera- impton Hotels & Restaurants has an- tional results for November, 2017 nounced its first property in Indian- the airline’s consolidated traffic apolis; an adaptive reuse of a historical increased by 5.1 percent and con- downtown building opening in early solidated capacity increased 5.1 2020. Upercent as well compared to November 2016, KThe project turns the notable Odd Fellows while consolidated load factor was flat com- building into a 130-room hotel with a signature pared to the month under review in 2016. restaurant, more than 460 m² of meeting space, For the month of November,2017, United and what is hailed as the city’s first ever rooftop bar. Airlines had the fewest cancelations of any Mike DeFrino, CEO, Kimpton Hotels & Restau- month in the company's history and set a new rants, commented, “Adding to the adaptive reuse record with its best ever on-time arrival rate. projects in our portfolio is a great way to showcase Additionally, the airline achieved an all-time our way of honouring the character of a historic company record for on-time departures. The building while transforming it into a stylish new company now expects fourth quarter consoli- hotel and restaurant.” dated passenger unit revenue to be down two The hotel’s location is in the heart of downtown percent to flat compared to the fourth quarter Indianapolis and a short walk to major sporting Indianapolis of 2016. venues as well as the Indiana Convention Center.

14 27 JANUARY 2018 www.traveltradeweekly.travel ASIA PACIFIC INTERNATIONAL

AIDA Fleet First as AIDAcara Docks Thailand Exceeds Down Under Visitor Arrival Target

IDAcara has become the first the Great Barrier Reef and Cairns, where u-Chen Wang was named Thailand’s ship in the AIDA fleet to dock guests celebrated a real Australian Christ- Luckiest Visitor for being the 34 mil- at Sydney Harbour. mas with Santa Claus and didgeridoo lionth visitor to the country this year. This first docking during players. Upon her arrival, senior executives her world cruise , which, over of the Tourism Authority of Thailand A116 days, will take the ship to 41 ports Y(TAT) welcomed and rewarded her with two econo- in 23 countries on five continents, was my class return tickets from her original destination streamed live on the AIDA Facebook page to Thailand, and a voucher for a five-night accommo- on December 19 and 20, 2017. dation in Thailand as well as the Thailand’s Luckiest Before the world cruise ship with Visitor accolade that included a signed certificate around 1,100 guests on board docked, from TAT. Tommy Möller , captain, AIDAcara, sailed Tanes Petsuwan, deputy governor, marketing past the famous shell-shaped Opera communications, TAT, said that 2017 had been an House. AIDAcara then made her way to exceptionally good year for Thailand, which was the White Bay Cruise terminal with a view ready to welcome the New Year with a range of excit- of the city's skyline. ing tourism events and activities under the action- AIDA Cara Leaving Sydney, AIDAcara headed for packed Amazing Thailand Tourism Year 2018.

Sydney Airport Awards News GSTC Recognises Korean and Books Portfolio Ecotourism Standard Body

ydney Airport has awarded its news and books portfolio in departures at the Tinal erm2 Domestic terminal to Lagardere Travel Retail as part of the sig- nificant investment to enhance the airport experi- ence. SLagardere Travel Retail will now operate 100 percent of the category in Terminal 2 departures by delivering a selection of brands that showcase great authors, compelling news publica- tions and travel essentials, enhancing value and choice.

Korea

he Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) has Increase of Express Trains to awarded the Korean Ecotourism Standard for Destina- tions and the Korean Ecotourism Standard for Accom- Blue Mountains modations and Tours ‘GSTC-Recognised’ status. The Korean organisation was developed to guide Tboth public and private sectors to understand hands-on practices isitors to the Blue Mountains can now get there faster from for sustainable ecotourism development and management, while Sydney’s Central station, with the introduction of 24 new ex- certifying them so they can take a better position in the tourism press train services. market to distinguish them from any ecotourism products that The extra services have been added in response to grow- may be guilty of green-washing. ing demand from visitors to destinations including Went- Randy Durband, CEO, GSTC, explained, “Recognition of a stand- Vworth Falls, Leura and Katoomba, particularly on weekends. ard means that the standard, Korea Ecotourism Standard, in this During the week, visitors can also take advantage of a new eight-car case, includes the four pillars of sustainability inherent in the GSTC Lithgow morning express service, which reduces the journey from the sta- Criteria: management, social/community, cultural, and environ- tion to Katoomba by up to 17 minutes mental issues.”

27 JANUARY 2018 15 RENDEZVOUS www.traveltradeweekly.travel

ANTOINE MEDAWAR, VICE PRESIDENT, AMADEUS, MENA, REVEALS HOW THE COMPANY STAYS AT THE TOP OF THE GAME IN THE EVER-EVOLVING WORLD OF GDS AND AMID INCREASINGLY TECH- SAVVY CONSUMER AND AIRLINE INDUSTRY DEMANDS AS BRICK-AND-MORTAR OPTIONS MAKE WAY FOR E-COMMERCE.

Q&A with Antoine Medawar VICE PRESIDENT, AMADEUS MENA

TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How was 2017 in terms airlines and large hotel chains across the world. ing relevant and meeting their customers’ needs? of business and how does 2018 look so far? Can More recently, the rise of e-commerce behaviours you share some statistics with us? has led to online travel agents (OTAs) and to the crea- ANTOINE MEDAWAR: The industry will face pres- tion of metasearch companies that specialise in traffic sures from both ends of the distribution chain. First, ANTOINE MEDAWAR: The year 2017 was positive acquisition through comparing prices across the in- the relative consolidation of airlines provides nego- one for Amadeus as we maintained growth in the ternet without offering booking services. Again, GDS tiating power with intermediaries in the value chain. first three quarters of the year and all of our busi- technology plays an important role in that ecosystem. Second, the rapidly evolving expectations of the con- nesses performed well. Within the region, we had im- sumer – increasingly digitally-savvy with new online portant developments in our client relationships as TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Which are the latest purchasing opportunities – continues to shape the we signed and renewed significant deals with lead- trends regarding the global distribution model distribution industry. Competitive pressures within ing industry players such as Al Tayyar Travel Group, and how does the company make sure to follow the industry will also play a major role as well as a FlyDubai, MEA Airlines among others. those? growing need for personalisation. Additionally, we had the pleasure to host over 100 regional experts at our Amadeus Fly by Digital ANTOINE MEDAWAR: As the industry grows it’s a TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: What does the future Summit in Dubai, UAE, to discuss improvements to natural consequence that there are new require- hold for GDS? Can you share with us some of your the travel experience in what is one of the world’s ments from our customers and travellers. We aim to future plans, including new products, new col- fastest growing tourism and passenger hubs. serve them both. laborations etc? Given the steady progression of our MENA busi- Travellers today are looking for consistency, nesses and the wider confidence in the region’s trav- transparency and choice, and Amadeus strongly ANTOINE MEDAWAR: The creation of the GDS was el industry, we looked forward to ending 2017 strong believes that indirect distribution remains the most to be able to, with a single infrastructure, serve mul- with optimism heading into 2018. cost-efficient solution for all parties to achieve that tiple airlines and therefore bring a cost advantage aim on a global scale. and a cost efficiency to the industry. This approach TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: How has GDS technol- As is the case with any industry, travel is evolving will continue well into the future as GDS brings tre- ogy transformed the travel industry during the and customer needs change. Amadeus is also evolv- mendous benefits to travellers and travel agencies last 10 years? ing. We consider ourselves as a partner to both our by providing easy comparisons and an environ- airline and our travel agency customers and we will ment that is tailored to the consumer to make their ANTOINE MEDAWAR: Simply put, Global Distribu- always aim to meet their strategic business needs choices. When it comes to bookings, Amadeus also tion Systems (GDS) have helped in enhancing the ef- and help them achieve their objectives whatever augments our GDS offerings with travel technology ficiency and quality of today’s travel experience. their strategy. services like airline information technology prod- In the past, consumers would purchase flights ucts, travel agent interfaces for connecting to their largely through brick-and-mortar travel agents who TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY: Which are the biggest GDS network, and revenue management tools for liaised directly with the airline companies via call cent- challenges for GDS- especially considering the hotels and airlines to help price and merchandise ers or airline ticketing offices. Following the creation of rapid advancement of both technology and travel their products. GDS technologies, travel agents have increasingly used industries -and what should GDS providers do in Moreover, we are a company that invests in an- one or more of the GDSs to aggregate information from order to maintain their market positions, remain- ticipating the future of travel technology.

16 27 JANUARY 2018 www.traveltradeweekly.travel ASISA PACIFIC INTERNATIONAL

JW Marriot Bangkok Enters Second Year Ascott Surpasses Target of Renovation for China

scott exceeded its target of 20,000 units for China in 2017, ahead of its planned schedule of 2020, as it sealed contracts to manage nine properties with over 2,000 units in China. A With these new properties, Ascott made in- roads into new cities such as Harbin and Zhuhai, and widened its presence in Chongqing, Foshan, Shanghai and Wuxi. It also marked a record year of growth in China, as it added over 5,600 units across 28 properties in 2017, double the over 2,700 units across 15 properties added in 2016. Kevin Goh, CEO, Ascott, said, “With these nine new management contracts secured in China, Ascott JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok has exceeded our target of 20,000 units for our big- gest market China three years ahead of schedule.” W Marriott Hotel Bangkok has entered the second year of its 20th anniver- sary three-year makeover by revealing parts of the transformation that have already been completed. The first phase, which took place from April to mid-December 2017, added 130 new rooms and suites to the property. JThe second phase, set to be carried out on April-October this year will include the restyling of 178 guestrooms and the all-day dining outlet. The final renovation phase on all remaining guestrooms will commence mid- 2019. Shanghai The hotel is operating as normal during the entire transformation process.

AVANI Hotels & Resorts Fairfield by Marriott ONYX and Sincere Debuts in Luang Prabang Shanghai Jing’an Opens Team up

VANI Hotels & Resorts has an- arriott International announced NYX Hospitality Group and nounced the launch of its Luang the opening of Fairfield by Mar- Sincere Holdings Group Prabang hotel. riott Shanghai Jing’an. have announced the for- The 53-room, currently known All 195 guestrooms offer mation of a strategic part- as the Azerai Hotel, will be com- smart contemporary designs, nership, aiming to boost Apletely rebranded and refurbished in March. Mand are equipped with LED TVs, high speed Othe serviced apartments market across The French neo-classical architectural Wi-Fi and furniture to fulfill different needs key Chinese cities. design will compliment the hotels amenities of guests. Each room also includes a well-de- Under this partnership, Sincere which will include The Bistro restaurant. The signed ergonomic work area. Holdings Group will receive exclusiv- AVANISPA, the hotel’s gym AVANIFit, and a 25 Guests can enjoy a complimentary ity rights from ONYX Hospitality Group m swimming pool with a pool bar. An outdoor, breakfast with a wide selection of meals to develop and open Shama serviced covered 60 m2 pavilion will provide a multi-use and can also purchase snacks from the all- apartments, including those bearing space, ideal for small wedding ceremonies, so- day 24/7 Market. The hotel’s 24-hour gym the Shama Luxe and Shama Hub sub- cial events and casual meetings. also allows guests to maintain their exercise brand names, in 12 key cities across The hotel will also offer a variety of excur- routine. With 116 m2 of flexible multi-func- China, namely Shanghai, Shenzhen, sions including a selection of daily and over- tional meeting space, Fairfield by Marriott Guangzhou, Beijing, Chengdu, Chong- night Mekong River cruises and a guided hike Shanghai Jing’an can also cater to various qing, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Suzhou, Tian- up Mount Phousi. meeting and event needs. jin, Wuxi and Xiamen.

27 JANUARY 2018 17 TRAVEL CHANNELS www.traveltradeweekly.travel

Etihad Aviation Group supports Syrian children

Sustainable Tourism Index Released

The Economist Intelligence Unit released The Sustainable Tour- ism Index which assesses countries on their commitment to de- velop and promote sustainable practices in tourism. The report showed that the world’s developed countries have done more at the national level than their emerging-world rivals to formulate policy, foster adherence to recognised stand- ards, encourage travel and tourism businesses to reduce their environmental footprint, co-ordinate efforts with NGOs and the private sector, and ensure protection of their cultural and his- torical assets. Quotes from Randy Durband, CEO, GSTC, are included as the report refers to the GSTC Criteria.

Etihad Aviation Group Marks Year of Giving

Etihad Aviation Group (EAG) has concluded a year-long programme of ac- tivities and humanitarian initiatives to mark the UAE’s Year of Giving. In support of this national initiative, the company launched a strategy based on the government’s three Year of Giving pillars: corporate social responsibility, volunteering and serving the nation. A number of activities supported Syrian refugees, including a welfare trip to Lebanon where more than 3,550 Syrian refugees received winter clothes, mattresses, dry food parcels and blankets; and a trip to the UAE- Jordan Mrajeeb Al Fhood refugee camp in Jordan where the group’s staff and senior management distributed school bags, stationery sets and blankets to more than 2,500 children. Ray Gammell, CEO, Etihad Aviation Group, said, “We are proud that the EAG family worldwide so generously supported the many initiatives throughout the year.”

18 27 JANUARY 2018 www.traveltradeweekly.travel PHOTO ALBUM

Take a Shot! Share with us the latest images of your activities and let your colleagues know what you have been up to.

Andrew Fisher, vice president, fleet planning, Etihad Airways, embarked on a journey when he attempted to break Send your photos to the world record by flying around the globe in the shortest time frame Bahrain on January 10 [email protected] Because a picture is worth a thousand words...

H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler, Dubai, has launched the Marmoom Iftikhar Hamdani, general manager,Ramada Ajman, presents the prize for the most Reserve project, an unfenced desert conservation reserve valuable player in the Blind Cricket World Cup's India vs Pakistan match

Banyan Tree Bangkok has invited dedicated runners with a heart of gold to take part in its 19th Vertical Marathon

27 JANUARY 2018 19 NEWS & EVENTS www.traveltradeweekly.travel

IBTM Arabia Introduced Hosted Buyer Programme EVENTS

BTM Arabia has seen an influx of high-profile Part of the portfolio of meetings and events in- EMITT international hosted buyers already confirmed dustry trade shows, provides hosted buyers with a Istanbul, Turkey I to attend, following the introduction of its en- personalised schedule of one-to-one meetings with January 25 – 28 hanced Hosted Buyer programme. a hand-picked selection of leading suppliers. www.emittistanbul.com The programme sees the IBTM team pre-select- Shinu Pillai, exhibition manager, IBTM Arabia, EMITT, attracts over 46,000 industry ing and qualifying hosted buyers, allowing them to said, “Testament to the event’s importance and the professionals and tourists, annually, looking for new travel opportunities be fast-tracked through the process. This also ena- weight it carries in the Middle East MICE market, from destinations and travel service bles IBTM to be even more targeted in ensuring only IBTM Arabia attracts overseas suppliers from across companies from across the globe. the highest calibre of hosted buyers is present at the the globe.” event.

HOSPITALITY INDONESIA CONFERENCE (HIC)

Jakarta, Indonesia January 30 – 31 www.hospitality-asia.com HIC focuses on delivering a sea of timely market insights that facilitate corporate strategies and growth on a regional scale.

ITB-BERLIN Bedaya Holds Life-Planning Workshop Berlin, Germany March 07-11 www.itb-berlin.com edaya Center recently held a workshop teaching participants how to set out goals when planning Hailed as the leading travel trade their future. show, ITB Berlin is the foremost business platform for global touristic B Carried out in collaboration with educational instructor Khaled Saleh Al Yafei, known as coach Al offers. Yafei, the workshop was entitled How to plan your life. Addressing the attendees, coach Al Yafei said, “If you do not know what you want, you will not reach where you want. This is the baseline for setting up a plan for your work life. Each one of us should set his/ her goals in mind and determine the time required for its implementation regardless if those goals are immediate, short-term, medium-term or long-term.” “Strong belief, enthusiasm, and passion are the real starting point for change in all individuals who seek change,” Al Yafei continued.

Heritage Series Returns to Al Ain Palace Museum

s part of Al Ain’s calendar of cultural activities and events organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism , Abu ATM A Dhabi, the My Heritage, My Responsibility series returned to Al Dubai, UAE Ain Palace Museum on January 11 and 12. April 22-25 Featuring an array of evening events and activities, the series arabiantravelmarket.wtm.com focused on the variety of traditional performances typical to the B2B exhibition showcasing over different regions of the UAE. 2,800 products and destinations from around the world to over Visitors were able to experience some of the most unique Emi- 28,000 travel trade visitors. rati performing arts including Al Hoolu, Al Hadwa, Al Rababa, Al Taghrooda, and Al Harbiya. They were also able to enjoy a traditional market, a variety of An earlier edition of My Heritage, My Emirati cuisine, artistic workshops, and traditional games for chil- Responsibility dren, in addition to cultural competitions open to all.

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