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NEWS contents3rd Greek-Israeli Joint Committee forTourism Cooperation protocol signed 4

Regional Convention Bureaus necessary forconference tourism 4Market stakeholders meet to develop Greek Yachting 4

"Winter tourism can work in combination withother alternative forms of tourism" 5New Board of Directors at S.I.T.E.S.A.P. 5Giannis Retsos takes helm as new HHF president 5Hellenic Tourism Development Co. andHell enic Olymp ic Prop erties co mplete merger 5OASA Group records first signs of recovery in earnings 5

Second round of Greek communication campaign

takes off 6International Pow Wow from May 21 25, 2011San Francisco, California 6

Preservation and protection of the Vravrona Wetland 6

Best Western introduces Best Western Plus 7Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. andTouristika Theretra S.A. announce the renovation ofSheraton Rhodes Resort in Greece 7Navarino Natura Hall by Hellenic Postbank 7

Rally Acropolis 2011 & Special Olympics Hellas 8Remote route not so remote in 2011 8Louis Cruises now member of CLIA 8

Mar iner of the Seas docks in Piraeus for fi rst t ime 9Amphitrion Group of Companies andCruisexperts Hellas have been recently appointed therepresentation of Princess Cruises and Cunard in Greece 9M/V Louis Majesty departs Piraeus for first time this year 9

The Celebrity Difference 10Increases in ferry tickets 10George Kessanis the new Hellenic Imperial AirwaysRegional Manager USA 102.5% Passenger growth for Europes regionalsPositive growth follows a second difficult year for

intra-European airlines 10Air France will operate a daily service between Parisand San Francisco by Airbus A380. 10

Air Moldova opens new flights to Crete 11Gulf Air Adds Copenhagen in Denmark and Nairobi inKenya to its Network 11Miles & More myChoice: choose your favourite route inEurope and earn even more miles 11

Itcan'tbenotedmore,that lastyear

theGreektourismindustry hadfall-

envictimof theferociousnegative

presscoverage duetothefinancial

problemsofthe country.

Theresultofthiswas toplungethe

country further into crisis, since

tourismconstitutes18%of thecoun-tries GNP.

Lookingbackandassessingthesit-

uation one can only say thatthe

Greek tourism product has a high

levelofresilience sincethe directaf-

fect wasinthetune of 10%. Isitthe

islandsandallthatgoeswiththem,

isitthenatural beautycoupled with

activities like trekking, mountain

climbing, rafting, etc., is itthe

monasteries and religious tours, isit

the ancientruins,cruises,etc., etc.,

etc. It goestoprovethatGreecehas

numerous, ifnotendlessreasonsfor

tourists to chose to spend their

spare time in Greece. Nowonder

Greecewasnamed FloridaofEurope

buttooursurprisewe don't see this

happened yet.

TheMinistry of Culture and Tourism,

the GNTO and the travel andtourism

professionals did whatever they

couldwith the little meansavailable

toreversethisnegativetrendby go-

ing to travel andtourismexhibitions,makingoffers anddeals and p

ro-

motingheavilyontheInternet.

Although traditional methodsof

forecastinghaveproven to beunre-

liable,becauseof changesincon-

sumers behavior,itseems thatthe

2011Summer season willbemuch

betterthanlastyear.

The howmuchstimulatesoptimists'

sphere of fantasy,with numbers

reaching sohigh thatmakeus blush.

Sowe atHellenic Travelling inter-

viewed government officials,associ-

ationofficersandexecutivesoflarge

tourism companieswith goal togeta

morecomplete pictureofwhatwe

should expect for the 2011Summer

season. Thereplieswe got werepos-

itivebutnot concrete.Forsurewe

will haveanincreaseinheadcount,

whatremainstobe seen iswhat that

will translate in moneyasa resultof

thediscounting andoffers.

Nevertheless,within themonthof

Maythevastmajorityoftourismen-

terpriseswill open their doors to

business, and the peoplewhowill

pass throughthosedoorsmust leave

fullysatisfied, sotheywill comeback

again andsendtheirfriends.

Forecasting2011

stimulatesoptimists'

sphereoffantasy

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[NEWS] 3|

www.travelling.gr 9 www.seteconferences.gr

ACS Athens andAthens Training and Development Center

will provide students and professionals with the

opportunity to learn online Marketing strategies.

These skills will translate into real life applications.

Additionally, participants are eligible to sit

for the CeMA Certification Examination

once they have successfully completed the four required courses.

For inquiries call Tel.: 210 800 1029 to arrange a meeting

with a representative of the Athens Training & Development Center,

E-mail: info@athenstrainingcenter.gr, Web site: www.athenstrainingcenter.gr

Athens Training and Development Center

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3RD GREEK-ISRAELI JOINT

COMMITTEE FOR TOURISM

COOPERATION PROTOCOL

SIGNED

The Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mr Pavlos Geroulanos, and Is-raeli Minister of Tourism, Mr Staz Miseznikof, signed a protocol forcooperation in tourism at the Acropolis Museum in the presence ofdelegations from both countries.Ministers Geroulanos and Miseznikof pledged to cultivate the en-hancement of and increase in tourism between Greece and Israel,including support by all possible means of an air route between TelAviv and Thessaloniki.With regards to the cruise industry, the fastest developing sector inthe eastern Mediterranean, the two countries agreed to encourageauthorities and individuals active in the field to pursue mutual ben-efits from the undeniable advantages that the cruise industry offers

to tourism and its quality.In the field of religious tourism, the two countries agreed to createreligious interest routes making it easier for tour operators wishingto engage in various forms of tourism that have mutual demand andinterest.Cultural tourism was also on the agenda as Greece and Israel form

a 'bridge' for high cultural values in the eastern Mediterranean. Thesetting up of joint tour packages between professionals of bothcountries aimed at emerging markets (China, India, Japan, Russiaand the US) was also decided on.

Great importance is given to investment in the tourism sector, andto this end it was agreed there would be close cooperation so thatthere is continuous information on investment opportunities in bothcountries. The Israeli delegation expressed its satisfaction with boththe signing of the Protocol and the warm hospitality of the Greekgovernment.Present at meeting on the Greek side were Deputy Minister of Cul-ture and Tourism, Mr Giorgos Nikitiadis, the Secretary General of theGreek National Tourism Organization (GNTO), Mr Giorgos Koletsos,SETE Vice President, Mr Andreas Andreadis, and HATTA President,Mr Giorgos Telonis. On the Israeli side, amongst others present, wasMr Yaron Miller, President of the Flying Carpet Company, which hasexpressed a strong interest in the Greek tourist market.After the signing of the Protocol, Minister Geroulanos said: "We hada very important meeting with the Israeli Minister of Tourism. Whatwas worked out is the way in which we can work together to devel-op tourism not only between our two countries but also how we canbring visitors from other parts of the world such as China and India

to Greece and Israel. What we conclude is that the common productswe promote are very strong and everything we do together will helpus open up markets that were previously not open to us. Such a re-lationship can give a lot to both countries and the process by whichwe hope to do this has already begun."

REGIONAL CONVENTION

BUREAUS NECESSARY FOR

CONFERENCE TOURISMThe process for establishing an operating organizational web ofConventions Bureaus in the framework for the development of Con-ference Tourism in Greece is entering its final phase. The develop-ment of Conference Tourism and the creation of regional Conven-tions Bureaus in particular was discussed at a recent meeting heldat the General Secretariat for Tourism, chaired by Deputy Minister ofCulture and Tourism Mr Giorgos Nikitiadis.The meeting was attended by members of the Committee, formedon the initiative of Mr Nikitiadis, for the development of ConferenceTourism,. The Committee's immediate objectives include:- Shaping a strategy for the development of Conference Tourism;- Drawing up an inventory of all the conference facilities in Greeceand setting up a registration list for enterprises dealing with Con-ference and Congress Tourism;

- Recording developments and trends in the international market ofConference Tourism;- Setting up systematic and statistical monitoring of Greek and in-ternational markets for Conference Tourism;- Mobilising assistance to all regions throughout Greece helpingthem to achieve the proper organisation and infrastructure for pro-moting Conference Tourism;- Promoting appropriate actions for legal protection of the activitiesof Conference Tourism.

The Central Committee for Conference Tourism will consist of onerepresentative of the Association of Greek Tourist Enterprises (SETE),one representative of the Hellenic Association of Travel and TouristAgencies (HATTA), two representatives of the Hellenic Association ofProfessional Congress Organizers (HAPCO), one representative ofthe Athens Convention Bureau, one representative of the Thessa-loniki Convention and Visitors Bureau and one representative eachfrom Rhodes, Kos, Crete and Halkidiki, with parallel representationof Eastern Macedonia and Western Greece and one representativefrom the Secretary of State for Tourism, which chairs the Commit-tee.The issue dominating the meeting was the need for Regional Con-vention Bureaus and the need to inform delegates on operational is-sues based on acquiring expertise mainly from the Athens Conven-tion Bureau.Deputy Minister Nikitiadis emphasised that cooperation will yield thebest results and the state will assist in efforts to develop ConferenceTourism by exploiting the country's competitive advantages, existing

and new infrastructure that might be created, and efforts to attracttourists throughout the year.

MARKET STAKEHOLDERS

MEET TO DEVELOP

GREEK YACHTINGThe strengthening of Marine Tourism, through the support and de-velopment of yachting in Greece, was the subject of the extensivemeeting mid-April at the General Secretariat for Tourism chaired byDeputy Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mr Giorgos Nikitiadis. At themeeting, 15 representatives from 9 professional operators in thesector and from tourism, noted their positions on the issues facingthe industry today, the opportunities and prospects for further de-velopment of yachting and called for intervention on the part of theMinistry for serious problems.The Deputy Minister noted that yachting is an important sector intourism with strong elements that contribute to improving the do-mestic tourism product, highlighting areas of the country, andstrengthening local economies and the national economy in gener-al."Yachting is an important pillar and development goal, in the growthof marine tourism," Mr Nikitiadis stated. "Its development forms partof the strategic planning for the upgrading and modernisation of

Greek tourism and solving its problems is one of the immediate pri-orities.He asked representatives of the organisations to submit immediateproposals for this purpose and promised under his authority to pro-mote issues relevant to yachting to jointly responsible ministries.Pparticular reference was made to issues relating to the touristicpromotion of yachting and targeted advertising that must be aimedat traditional markets like Germany, Scandinavia and the US, as wellas new markets such as China, India and Latin America.

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"WINTER TOURISM CAN

WORK IN COMBINATION

WITH OTHER ALTERNATIVE

FORMS OF TOURISM"

The development of a legal framework for the operation of ski re-sorts was the subject of an extensive meeting held last month at theGeneral Secretariat for Tourism, chaired by Deputy Minister of Cul-

ture and Tourism Mr Giorgos Nikitiadis.Attended by the Secretary General of the Greek National Tourism Or-ganization (GNTO) Mr Giorgos Koletsos, as well as representatives oflocal government and 12 operators and ski resort businesses, themeeting heard proposals for operation, licensing, infrastructure, se-curity and staff training as well as for upgrading ski centers and im-proving the quality of services offered.Deputy Minister Mr Nikitiadis stressed that the development of win-ter tourism, especially ski resorts, is i ncluded in the new strategy forGreek tourism and is an immediate priority."Winter tourism can work together with other alternative forms oftourism such as religious tourism, trekking tourism, gastronomyand other forms, thus enhancing the domestic tourism product andhighlighting the special features of each region," Mr Nikitiadis point-ed out.The Deputy Minister emphasized the need to create a long-term le-gal framework that clearly defines all matters relating to the oper-ation of ski resorts.The proposals put forward will be specified by a working group at thenext meeting and the decisions taken will soon be finalised.

NEW BOARD OF

DIRECTORS AT S.I.T.E.S.A.P.The elections of the Greek Professional Yacht Owners Bareboat As-sociation (S.I.T.E.S.A.P.)were held early last month, resulting in a new Board of Directorswith the following make-up:President: Paris LoutriotisFirst Vice President, Ioannis MakridakisSecond Vice President, Konstantinos Hiotis,Secretary, Ioannis Kourounis, Treasurer, Stavros SarlasDeputy Secretary, Antonis MangosMember- Public Relations, Ekaterini Lambrou

GIANNIS RETSOS

TAKES HELM AS

NEW HHF PRESIDENT

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Hellenic Hotels Federation

(HHF) was held with overwhelming success in a central Athens ho-tel last month. Participants included Hotel Associations and politicalleaders in the field of tourism. The Governing Council of the Federa-tion unanimously elected Mr Giannis Retsos as President. Consid-ering his candidacy for President of the Association of Greek TouristEnterprises (SETE), the current HHF President, Mr Andreas An-dreadis, announced his intention to resign and stay on as a memberof the Board.The AGM was attended by the Minister of Culture and Tourism, MrPavlos Geroulanos, Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mr Gior-gos Nikitiadis, Member of Parliament and Head of Tourism of the op-position ND party, Mrs Olga Kefaloyianni, President of the Greek Na-tional Tourism Organization (GNTO), Mr Nicholas Kanellopoulos,

Secretary General of the GNTO, Mr George Koletsos, and ND partyDeputy Head of Tourism, Mr Petros Alivizatos. Also present were theSETE President, Mr Nikos Angelopoulos, and Athens-Attica HotelsAssociation (AAHA) President, Mr Giorgos Tsakiris.In his speech, the newly elected HHF President, referring to the gen-eral situation of the national economy, said: "We must take those de-cisions that will overturn the given and which will distance us fromself-pity, and that will lead to a positive outlook and this is called 'up-ward escape' in the markets.In his welcoming address, the Minister of Culture and Tourism, MrGeroulanos, noted that the cooperation of traders and market par-ticipants with his ministry as well as constant efforts to improvetourist services and Greece's image abroad are fundamental condi-tions for success and positive results for Greek tourism. He statedthat structured and well thought out proposals o n the part of the pri-vate sector that conform with the directives of tourism policy will beactively supported by his ministry.For her part, the Head of Tourism for the ND party, Mrs Olga Ke-faloyiannis, stood by the basic conditions she views as essential fortourism development and improving tourism competitiveness. Shehighlighted the need for promoting and advertising tourism, intro-ducing a joint body for the exposure and handling of tourism with

technocratic terms, and an urgent need to upgrade the field oftourism education.

HELLENIC TOURISM

DEVELOPMENT CO. ANDHELLENIC OLYMPIC

PROPERTIES COMPLETE

MERGERIn the context of government policy on the mergers of public sectorbodies with the intent to curb public spending and by implementa-tion of Law 3943/2011, the formal part of the merger of the HellenicTourist Development Co. S.A. with Hellenic Olympic Properties SAhas been successfully completed with the absorption of the secondby the first. The newly created single enterprise has already beenrenamed Hellenic Tourist Properties S.A. The two companies havealso already co-located, thus resulting in a substantial reduction ofoperating expenses.

OASA GROUP RECORDS

FIRST SIGNS OF RECOVERY

IN EARNINGSAccording to the Ministry of Infrastructure, Transport and Networks(YME) and OASA (Athens Urban Transport Organisation), strategiesare bearing fruit and OASA has seen the first signs of recovery inrevenues. This puts it in a favorable position for successfully imple-

menting a reorganisation plan for its urban transport companies.March, the first month of the new pricing policy in urban transport,signaled the turning point for positive financial results. Despite themany strikes and occupations of roads in the center of Athens thatmonth, worker strikes OASA's companies were limited, which con-tributed significantly to the efficient functioning of the capital's trans-port system.The numbers reveal that for the first time in three years there was asignificant increase in revenue from ticket sales and season ticketsfor the month of March compared year-on-year. The overall in-crease in revenue from fares stands at 7.6%.Based on historical data of demand of movement and the applicationof control measures for non-paying passengers, the financial re-sults the OASA Group of companies are expected to be significantlyimproved for the quarter March/April/May in relation to the previ-ous year.OASA aims to promote the season ticket the most economical andefficient solution for frequent travelers to the traveling public. Tothis end, OASA is expected to proceed and make the annual seasonticket available in June and September 2011. This will provide in-centives for frequent passengers, unions, employee groups andcorporate formations.

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SECOND ROUND OF

GREEK COMMUNICATION

CAMPAIGN TAKES OFF

An initiative taken by communications agencies aims to stimulatethe Greek market by helping to develop domestic tourism. For thefirst time, institutional bodies of the wider communications sector SDE (Hellenic Advertisers Association), EDEE (Greek Association ofAdvertising & Communications Companies), EITHSEE (Associationof Private TV Stations with National Coverage), EIIPA (Association ofOwners of Private Athens Radio Stations), PAKT (Association of Film& Television Producers), and SEPT (Association of Magazine Press) have collaborated to create the social campaign "Greece, piece ofour soul", with a view to strengthening Greek tourism within the

country and the climate in general. Mr Pavlos Geroulanos, Ministerof Culture and Tourism, has from the very beginning embraced andsupported this cooperation and effort and was present at the pres-entation of the communications campaign.The first round of the communications campaign was designed bythe advertising agency Spot JWT and included three television spots(and corresponding columns) inspired by writings of three greatGreek poets: Odysseus Elytis, Yannis Ritsos and Lorentzos Mavillis.After the presentation, the Union of Greek Banks (EET), the Union ofMobile Telephony Companies (EEKT), the Federation of Greek FoodIndustries (SEBT), the Association of Oil Marketing Companies ofGreece (SEEPE), the Pan-Hellenic Association of Industrialists andCosmetics & Fragrance Representatives (PSBAK), the Pan-HellenicExporters Association (PSE), the Greek Federation of Branded Prod-ucts Industry (ESBEP), the Association of Greek Recordings Produc-ers (IFPI), Thessaloniki Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TCCI)and other companies that have included the program in their com-munication products and services, became 'allies' in the effort.This second round of the communication campaign designed by ad-vertising agency McCann Erickson is inspired by the people whomake up the Greek tourism product. In their work environmentthese people show us the passion and love they have for their pro-

fession, for Greek hospitality and for their foreign visitors.The campaign includes four television and radio spots that show tra-ditional houses with an example from Tzoumerka of winter tourismthrough the Parnassos Ski Center, culture through the Acropolis Mu-seum, and Athenian hospitality and entertainment through tradi-tional taverns.The companies McCann Erickson, Universal Media and GaramondDesign, the production companies Lynx Productions, Parasol, Filmiliand LeSpot and their coefficients as well as the stars in the televisioncommercials Mr Pyrrhus Poulis, Ms Maria Psarrou, Mr ConstantinosEconomou and Ms Stavroula Kanellopoulou all cooperated to createthe second campaign.The second round of the communications campaign will end in No-vember 2011. Parties interested in participating in this movementcan communicate with Mr Kaloudis of the SDE. Tel.: 210-6746568 /210-6449853, e-mail: sde@sde.gr / gkal-symmaxia@gnto.gr.

INTERNATIONAL POW

WOW FROM

MAY 21 25, 2011

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIAThe largest generator of Visit USA travel, U.S. Travel AssociationsInternational Pow Wow, this year will take place at San Francisco,

California, on May 21-25.

In just three days of intensive pre-scheduled business appoint-ments, more than 1,000 U.S. travel organizations from every regionof the USA (representing all industry category components), andclose to 1,500 International and Domestic Buyers from more than 70countries, conduct business negotiations that result in the genera-tion of over $3.5 billion in future Visit USA travel.At the International Pow Wow, buyers and sellers are able to conductbusiness that would otherwise be generated only through an ex-haustive number of around-the-world trips.

PRESERVATION AND

PROTECTION OF THE

VRAVRONA WETLAND

Creation of special track for visitors withreduced eyesightAs part of the programme for the preservation and protection of theVravrona Wetland, the Hellenic Ornithological Society and the AthensInternational Airport created a special path, offering visitors with re-duced eyesight the experience of the wetland environment, an area

combining great environmental and archaeological value.The path - the first of its kind created in Greece starts at theVravrona Museum, continues east of the archaeological site, andends a short way from the Erasinos river. Of a total length of 500 me-tres, the track is equipped with a special guiding system, offering aunique experience to people with reduced eyesight. Special relief

signs guide visitors through the wetland environment, organized incategories, such as the wetland, wet meadows, shrubs. Orien-tation and acoustic systems enabling visitors to listen to the sounds

of the birds of the wetland, are also provided.The creation of the visit-path was made possible thanks to the effortsof the Hellenic Ornithological Society and the Athens InternationalAirport, in cooperation with the Panhellenic Association of the Blindand the Lighthouse for the Blind of Greece, within the framework ofthe programme for the Vravrona Wetland protection. The VravronaWetland path invites everyone for a visit, nature-lovers and espe-cially parents; children will find this an excellent experience!

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BEST WESTERN

INTRODUCES

BEST WESTERN PLUS

With a view to helping clients choose the ideal hotel based on theirneeds, Best Western International has created the category of BestWestern Plus. Best Western Plus hotels are 4* and the first BestWestern Plus hotels have already been certified in the US, while inEurope the first Best Western Plus to be certifi ed is the Embassy Ho-tel.The Best Western Plus Embassy Hotel is a boutique 4* hotel at thefoot of Lycabettus Hill, near the American Embassy, the Concert Halland between two Metro stations. It has 31 suites and roomsequipped with a mini bar, cafeteria, safe, electronic locks, telephone

with voice messaging, adjustable air conditioning, flat screen TV andof course free wireless Internet access that applies to all Best West-

ern Hotels independent of category.The hotel also has a Caf Bar and two fully equip ped meeting roomsthat can accommodate events for up to 100 people. Having suc-cessfully passed the initial quality control conducted by Best West-ern, the hotel is now available for bookings on the international net-work of Best Western International and the chain's website:www.bestwestern.com/gr/PLUSEmbassyHotel.

STARWOOD HOTELS &

RESORTS WORLDWIDE, INC.

AND TOURISTIKA THERETRA

S.A. ANNOUNCE THERENOVATION OF

SHERATON RHODES

RESORT IN GREECE

The hotel, located on the unique island of Rhodes, has started to wel-come guests as of 1st April after an extensive 15 million renovationproject that sees the hotel well placed to maintain its leading edge inthe Rhodian hospitality landscape.The renovation, which started in 2009 and was completed in 2011, in-corporated new design schemes in all guest rooms and suites, com-plete renovation of the hotels public areas, a brand new outdoor poolwhich adds to the existing two outdoor pools and one indoor pool,Sheraton Fitness Center and a unique Link@Sheraton lobby withstate-of-the-art technology features. Hotels guests can enjoy lunchor dinner at one of the three restaurants, one of which is locatedpool-side, sports and fitness facilities, such as basketball, volleyball,tennis and water sports, as well as a Blue Flag awarded beach.The Sheraton Rhodes Resort can also hold events for up to 1,000people with more than 2,600 square metres of meeting and eventspace, including a showcase ballroom, numerous break-out andmeeting areas, the latest audio-visual technology as well as fullcatering and banquet services and wireless internet in meeting

rooms.The renovation project of the Sheraton Rhodes Resort included acomprehensive re-design of each guest room, blending modernstyle with custom furnishings in colours that evoke the colour paletteof the sea and the sand. Guests will rest and rejuvenate in the mostcomfortable bed of the hospitality industry the Sheraton SweetSleeper that boasts a luxurious mattress, a redesigned ensem-ble of all-white, 300 thread count pillow cases and sheets, and a newduvet. Armoires and workstation furniture complement comfortable

chairs. Each of the 401 rooms and suites combine understated ele-gance and casual sophistication, with a decidedly modern twist. Thehotel also has many options for connecting rooms, allowing familiesand other larger parties to stay together at Sheraton Rhodes Resort.The extensive enhancement demonstrates the Sheraton Rhodes Re-sorts desire to remain a leader among Rhodes hospitality players,offering a superior property that reflects the companys commit-ment to delivering guests highest standards of quality and comfort.With an enviable location overlooking a private beach and just a fewkilometres from the Old Town, Sheraton Rhodes Resort is an idealchoice for families with children, couples on honeymoon and largeconferences on the idyllic island of Rhodes.

NAVARINO NATURA HALL

BY HELLENIC POSTBANK

The official presentation of Navarino Natura Hall by Hellenic Post-bank, an interactive exhibition space unique to Greece, which will

operate from June at Costa Navarino in the Peloponnese, was re-cently held. Finance Minister Mr Dimitris Kouselas and Deputy Min-ister of Environment, Energy and Climate Change Mr Giannis Mani-atis attended and addressed the event.The Navarino Natura Hall by Hellenic Postbank was created by thepartnership of the University of Stockholm, the Academy of Athens,the Greek Ornithological Society, the Greek Marine Environment

Protection Association (HELMEPA) and the Navarino Foundation, incollaboration with Hellenic Postbank. By using new interactive tech-nology tools, such as videos, three-dimensional views, touchscreens etc., the Navarino Natura Hall by Hellenic Postbank intends

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to inform visitors, students, local school children and local residentsabout the Messinian nature and the local ecosystems, the extent andconsequences of global climate change both globally and in theMediterranean region, and the ways in which anyone can contributeto tackling it.Navarino Natura Hall, 3D displayTraining programs for children that will be conducted in the area willprovide knowledge in a simple yet fun way. Parents and children canexplore the unique landscape of the region, equipped with theknowledge they have gained from Navarino Natura Hall by HellenicPostbank.Mr Kleon Papadopoulos, President of Hellenic Postbank, noted: "Thevision of a man who has loved and given to his hometown is devel-oped and perpetuated through all of us. We thank Mr Achileas Kon-stantakopoulos who has given us the opportunity to be a practicalpart of this vision. Today we discover the true dimension of a unique,environmental and educational project, Navarino Natura Hall by Hel-lenic Postbank. An innovative concept that highlights the ecological

model of Messinia across the whole Mediterranean."Mr Achileas Konstantakopoulos, CEO of TEMES, and representativeof the Navarino Foundation, said: "The policies implemented at Cos-ta Navarino are a must. Investing in the environment protects thenatural and cultural heritage. We were honored and supported inthis effort by the participation of the Academy of Athens, Universityof Stockholm, HELMEPA and the Greek Ornithological Society. Iwould like to thank the Postal Savings Bank and its President MrKleon Papadopoulos, who shared our vision. Postal Savings onceagain leads the way by taking actions to provide awareness in orderto protect the environment, at the same time with its intense socialproject."Photograph, from left to right: Academic Mr Christos Zerefos - Rep-

resentative Navarino Environmental Observatory, Mr Kleon Pa-padopoulos - President Postal Savings Bank, Mr. Achileas B. Kon-stantakopoulos - CEO of TEMES, Mr Xenophon Kappas - Director ofthe Greek Ornithological Society, Mr Dimitris Mitsatsos - GeneralManager HELMEPA.

RALLY ACROPOLIS 2011 &

SPECIAL OLYMPICS HELLASIn mid-April, Special Olympics Greece and the Acropolis Rally 2011co-organised an event far from the track and set routes. The two or-

ganizations organized a friendly soccer match at the Sports CenterGalaxy Soccer Club in Metamorfosi with teams formed by footballplayers from the Greek delegation of the world games Athens 2011surrounded by sports personalities and artists.The two organizations, in cooperation, gave a friendly soccer matchat the Sports Center Galaxy Soccer Club in Metamorfosi, with teamsformed by football players from the Greek delegation of the worldgames ATHENS 2011 surrounded by sports personalities and artists.The audience was greeted by the President of the Athens 2011 Or-

ganizing Committee, Ms Gianna Despotopoulou, who welcomed theone organisation to the ranks of the other, stating her conviction thatthe two major Greek athletic events this summer will be properlyconducted.At her side were Mr Brady Lam, Mr Lee Todd and Mr Peter Wheeler,members of the International Special Olympics Committee. Presentwere a number of celebrities, either as competitors, or as specta-tors. Amongst the spectators was a big star of the Panathinaikosfootball team, Mr Djibril Cisse, who was photographed with theGreek delegation of the Special Olympics as well as various well-known celebrities and artists.The event, although friendly in character, did not lack excitement withmissed and successful attempts from both sides, with the team ofSpecial Olympics Hellas emerging as the winner of the day with ascore of 8-7, having preceded the Rally Acropolis Team 2011 with ascore of 3-2 in the first half.

REMOTE ROUTE NOT

SO REMOTE IN 2011

For the fifth consecutive year Attica Group (Blue Star Ferries & Su-perfast Ferries) is sponsoring the non-profit company "Diadrasi"through the programme "Agoni Grammi Gonimi".This year, the program visits Folegandros, Antiparos, Halki, Thirasia,Kastelorizo, Kalymnos, Amorgos and Tinos. The visits to the islandsentail three aspects: Reading Clubs, Children's Book Reading Con-test and the main activities of the "Diadrasi" Festival where youngand old have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of educa-

tional workshops and cultural activities.Students are given the opportunity to participate i n interactive work-shops, mosaic, Kung Fu, to create a web newspaper and comics,theater games, yoga, traditional Greek dancing lessons, musicworkshops, games and environmental awareness. Also, at cultur-al events with free admission for the public, islanders will have theopportunity to attend film screenings, an open debate on ways toprovide autonomous energy to the Greek islands, concerts with theKamerata and the Athens State Orchestra, as well as theatrical per-formances.This particular aspect aims at providing equal access to educationand culture for all, regardless of place of residence, and is part of theprogram Corporate Social Responsibility of the Attica Group entitled'Destination You' and is addressed to the islands served by the Groupwith the ships Blue Star Ferries & Superfast Ferries.

LOUIS CRUISES NOW

MEMBER OF CLIALouis Cruises is now a member of CLIA (Cruise Lines InternationalAssociation). The World Association, based in the US, represents theworld's major cruise lines and is the largest carrier of the globalcruise market, representing the 26 major companies and activelyparticipating in the policy making and shaping of the regulatoryframework governing the sector internationally.At the same time, CLIA supports measures that go beyond thoseprovided by international conventions relating to safety and hygieneon cruise ships. CLIA is involved with the thorough training of trav-el agents in research, marketing and communication to promote thecruise as a vacation option. It is no surprise then that CLIA members

include over 16,000 travel agents.The acceptance of Louis Cruises as a CLIA member increases itsprestige in the international cruise market, bringing it significantbenefits for the enhancement of the cruises the company operatesin the Greek islands, and in the eastern and western Mediterranean.The participation of Louis Cruises in this global link with significantinternational influence is an important recognition not only for thecompany but for the Greek cruise in general.In welcoming Louis Cruises to CLIA, the President, Ms ChristineDuffy said: "The participation of Louis Cruises further reinforces themany options offered today by the entire cruise industry, providingthe opportunity to tour operators who are members of CLIA to ex-pand their cruise sales and to attract new customers."

Executive Chairman of the Louis Group, Mr Kostakis Loizou, noted:"Our participation as a full member in such a prominent associationlike the CLIA is a further reward and recognition of the 25-year his-tory of Louis Cruises and reflects the tireless efforts of the 8,500 em-ployees of the Group and of the hundreds of Greek officers and sea-men employed in our cruise ships. It is the commitment of our hu-man resources to provide high quality services that has establishedLouis Cruises as a global power and leader of the industry in theMediterranean."

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MARINER OF THE SEAS

DOCKS IN PIRAEUS FOR

FIRST TIME

The cruise ship Mariner of the Seas recently made its maiden ap-pearance in Piraeus during its 14-day cruise of the eastern Mediter-ranean. The ship is owned by Royal Caribbean International and be-longs to the category Voyager Class. The Mariner of the Seas set offon 5 April 2011 from Rome, visiting Sicily before arriving at the ma-

jor Greek port with about 3,200 passengers who had the opportuni-ty to visit Athens. The ship received a very warm welcome by au-thorities of the Port of Piraeus on its first visit. Representatives of thePort of Piraeus and a spokesman for the company Navigator Travel& Tourist Services Ltd., which exclusively represents RoyalCaribbean International for Greece and Cyprus, exchanged com-memorative plaques with the captain, Mr Flemming Nielsen, and

wished all the ship's staff to always have pleasant voyages.The ship continued on to Haifa in Israel from where it was due to vis-it Jerusalem and then return to Greek waters, specifically in Rhodes,on to Kusadasi, Hania in Crete and then continue on its way to Capriand stop in Rome.This summer, the Mariner of the Seas will carry out 7-day cruises inthe western Mediterranean and 12-day cruises in the easternMediterranean. Some 40 cruises will be realized during the sum-mer reaching a minimum of 3 Greek ports and giving the opportu-nity to more than 120,000 passengers to learn about Greece."The contribution of cruises to Greek tourism is well known and tak-en for granted. It gives thousands of tourists the opportunity to ex-perience our islands and Athens and to enjoy a luxury cruise withall the travel amenities," noted Mr Andreas Stylianopoulos, Presi-dent and CEO of the travel agency Navigator Travel & Tourist Servic-es, the exclusive representative of Royal Caribbean Cruises, Greeceand Cyprus, adding that "Cruises are a developing market in theeastern Mediterranean with new cruise ship routes being added.Royal Caribbean International is investing in the area by launchingnew ships, which is particularly promising for the further develop-ment of Greek tourism and the economy of local communities."

AMPHITRION GROUP

OF COMPANIES AND

CRUISEXPERTS HELLAS

HAVE BEEN RECENTLYAPPOINTED THE

REPRESENTATION OF

PRINCESS CRUISES AND

CUNARD IN GREECE

Amphitrion Group of Companies and Cruisexperts Hellas have been

recently appointed the representation of Princess Cruises and Cu-nard in Greece.In a joint effort to expand the brand awareness and increase sales of

the two cruise lines in Greece, Natalie Papoutsoglou InternationalSales & Marketing Manager Europe, presented their advantages,their service, their unique routings, fleet of ships and their facilitiesto Greek travel agents.Moreover, the new 141.000-ton, 3.600-passenger vessel, namedRoyal Princess, was presented which will be debuting in spring of2013.

The prototype design is an evolution of the lines classic style ofships, while including some new features and expanded signaturespaces.A sister ship to Royal Princess will be launched in spring 2014.

M/V LOUIS MAJESTY

DEPARTS PIRAEUS FOR

FIRST TIME THIS YEAR

The entire tourism market was present at the Reception/Presenta-tion of the cruise ship Louis Majesty which was hosted by the Exec-utive Chairman of the Louis Group Mr Kostakis Loizou.The luxurious M/V Louis Majesty commenced its scheduled three-and four-day cruises from Piraeus to the Greek islands and Turkeyfor the first time this year from 1 April.The 41,000 ton and 207 m long M/V Louis Majesty was built in 1992in Finland, and in 1999 underwent an extension and upgrading ofabout 53.3 million USD. The new generation cruise ship can host1,937 passengers in 732 spacious staterooms and suites, 482 of

which are external. The M/V Louis Majesty has nine decks, five din-ing rooms, seven bars and lounges, six lifts, three swimming pools,a health and beauty spa, an amphitheater show lounge, a large casi-no, library and many other public areas.Executive Chairman Loizou noted: "We are confident that a cruiseship with the modern features, size and high quality services thatcharacterise the Louis Majesty, will be warmly welcomed and sup-ported by the market and passengers at a crucial juncture for bothGreek tourism and the country itself."

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A representative for the company Navigator Travel & Tourist Services Ltd., which

exclusively represents Royal Caribbean International for Greece and Cyprus, ex-

changed commemorative plaques with the captain, Mr Flemming Nielsen.

From left Mr. Kon/nos Mitsiou, CEO Amphitrion Group of Companies,Ms Natalie Papoutsoglou, Sales & Marketing Manager and Mr. GeorgePaliouras, Managing Director Cruisexperts Hellas.

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THE CELEBRITY

DIFFERENCEA new Qsine restaurant, whose modern cruise menus and winelists are presented on iPads, is part of the just-completed rehab ofCelebritys 1950-passenger Infinity. The same restaurant was addedto the 2034-passenger Constellation last year.Additional new Infinity features: aqua-class accommodations in con-

junction with spa programs, a Mediterranean-themed Blu restau-rant, an iLounge and iLearn classes, additional cabins, an ice-topped

martini bar, a creperie, new furnishings, new carpeting, flat-screenTV, and an expanded collection of original, contemporary art. A sim-ilar remodel job will be conducted on the 2034-passenger CelebritySummit in January, 2012 Celebrity is preparing for the rollout ofits newest ship, the 2886-passenger Celebrity Silhouette. It takes tothe waves in July from Hamburg, Germany, with a series of naming

festivities. During the summer it will be based in Rome, conducting12- and 13-night Holy Land cruises. In the fall, it will move to NewYork City.

INCREASES IN FERRY

TICKETSAs of 1 April some shipping companies have already increased theirticket fares by 8-12% while others are expected to follow. Meanwhile,at end-March a retroactive increase of 1.5% in 2010 and 1% for 2011was signed between the Greek Shipowners' Association for Pas-

senger Ships (SEEN) and the Panhellenic Seamen's Federation(PNO). The agreement has created problems between members ofthe Greek Shipowners' Association for Passenger Ships.

GEORGE KESSANIS THE

NEW HELLENIC IMPERIAL

AIRWAYS REGIONAL

MANAGER USA

Hellenic Imperial Airways announced the appointment of Mr. GeorgeKessanis as its new Regional Manager for the USA. George Kessa-nis has assumed his duties beginning April 2011.George Kessanis has a proven track record and substantial experi-ence in aviation management, and will be in charge of the forth-coming operations in the USA.

2.5% PASSENGER GROWTH

FOR EUROPES REGIONALS

POSITIVE GROWTH

FOLLOWS A SECOND

DIFFICULT YEAR FOR

INTRA-EUROPEAN AIRLINESThe European Regions Airline Association (ERA) which representssome 70 intra-European airlines, has recorded an average 2.5%scheduled passenger growth for its reporting members in 2010, andthe highest passenger load factor on record of 66.2%, indicating cau-tious recovery and a managed response to a second tough year.A record number of delegates have gathered in Malta for the Asso-ciations annual spring regional airline conference. Memories of

last years event in Edinburgh are still fresh in peoples minds. It co-incided with the Icelandic volcano eruption and major operationaldisruption. The unlimited liability imposed on airlines by the whollyinept Regulation 261/2004 lead, in turn, to a massive financial burdenfor many carriers.These figures, and particularly our highest ever passenger load fac-tor of 66.2%, are encouraging. They demonstrate the resilience andflexibility of intra-European airlines to respond swiftly and strategi-cally to changing markets, said ERA director general, Mike Am-

brose. However, while demand may be gradually recovering, yieldremains low and European air transport recovery lags behind therest of the world. The current situation strongly underlines the needfor the policies advocated by Commissioner Kallas in the BrugesDeclaration (that additional burdens, eg taxes on aviation) should berigorously applied if European carriers are to remain international-

ly competitive.

FROM 6 JUNE TO

4 SEPTEMBER 2011,

AIR FRANCE WILL OPERATE

A DAILY SERVICE BETWEEN

PARIS AND SAN FRANCISCO

BY AIRBUS A380.

Air Frances Airbus A380 Over the summer period, Air France is of-fering its customers the opportunity to discover the West coast ofthe United States on board this super jumbo equipped with 538seats, divided between three cabin classes (9 seats in La Premire,80 in Business and 449 in Voyageur).With the A380, Air France can continue to offer its customers im-proved service while at the same time improving economic effi-ciency. On board, three bars divided between the two decks, addi-tional space and comfort ensure that travelling on board this super

jumbo is a moment of well-being, in a particularly quiet cabin.Flight times between Paris and San Francisco by A380:Paris-CDG San Francisco:Departure 10:30 Arrival at 12:40

San Francisco Paris-CDG:Departure 16:10 Arrival at 11:35 the next dayDuring summer 2011, Air France is operating 10 weekly flights be-tween Paris-Charles de Gaulle and San Francisco, including one dai-ly flight by A380 from 6 June to 4 September. This service is operat-ed in partnership with Delta as part of the largest North-Atlantic jointventure with close to 250 daily flights.For more details or to make a reservation, go to www.airfrance.comor contact your travel agent.

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AIR MOLDOVA OPENS

NEW FLIGHTS TO CRETE

On May 26, 2011 Air Moldova airline in partnership with Tur-Mag-azin operator, launches first charter flight on the new route Chisin-au Heraklion(Crete) Chisinau.The flight to Crete will be operated by the comfortable Embraer 190aircraft, with a frequency of one flight per week on Thursdays. Thelaunching of charter flights Chisinau Heraklion is due to coopera-tion between Air Moldova and top tour operators from our country.The journey offer to Crete starts from 345 Euro. The travel packageincludes direct flight Chisinau- Heraklion -Chisinau, 7 nights ac-commodation in 3* hotel, breakfast, free transfer airport hotel andmedical insurance.Crete is the largest and most populous of the Greek islands. It forms

a significant part of the economy and cultural heritage of Greece.Heraklion or Iraklion is the largest city and capital of Crete. It is alsothe fourth largest city in Greece. Fifteen percent of all arrivals inGreece come through the city of Heraklion (port and airport), whilecharter journeys to Heraklion last year made up 20% of all charterflights in Greece. Overall, more than two million tourists visited Cretelast yearAirport Heraklion International Airport, or Nikos Kazantzakis Airportis located about 5 km east of the city. The airport is named afterHerkalion native Nikos Kazantzakis, a Greek writer and philosopher.It is the second busiest airport of Greece, mostly due to the fact thatCrete is a major destination for tourists during summer.Holiday packages, which include airfare, can be purchased at trav-

el agencies in Chisinau and other towns of Moldova.Air Moldova airline operates direct flights to 19 destinations Frank-furt, Vienna, Bucharest, Istanbul, Lisbon, Madrid, London, Athens,Larnaca, Rome, Milan, Verona, Paris, Moscow, St. Petersburg, Mu-nich, Kiev, Sochi and Varna, offering to its passengers two Class ofservice Business and Economy.Air Moldova is the biggest Moldavian airline and it has more than 50% of air transportations registered on the national market.

GULF AIR ADDS

COPENHAGEN IN

DENMARK AND NAIROBI

IN KENYA TO ITS NETWORK

Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain announcedthe launch of services to two more new destinations in its network.The airline will start flying to Copenhagen, the capital of Denmarkfrom 1st July 2011 and Nairobi, the capital of Kenya from 5th Julywith four flights per week. Copenhagen is set to become the airlinesfirst Scandinavian destination and Nairobi, its third African destina-tion.The route announcements follow the airlines recent commence-ment of services to a number of destinations including Geneva inSwitzerland, Milan in Italy, Addis Ababa in Ethiopia and Kabul inAfghanistan from 15 June bringing the number of new destinationsin 2011 to eight.Gulf Air Chief Executive Officer Samer Majali said: The addition ofCopenhagen and Nairobi along with Kabul, which we announced a

few weeks ago, demonstrates the airlines strategy of expanding itsoperations to diverse and underserved cities, connecting the King-dom of Bahrain with key cities beyond the Middle East.We have scheduled both services for good connections throughBahrain, not just to allow passengers to take advantage of the air-lines regional network the largest in the region but also to trav-el to Asia and the Indian Sub-continent through our base in Bahrain the fastest hub in the region.Scandinavians are keen travellers to the Asian and the Indian sub-continent regions and Copenhagen is an aviation hub for the Scan-dinavian and Baltic regions. The city also enjoys good surface con-nections with southern Sweden. In addition, Copenhagen is hometo many international corporations and organisations, and we see a

strong potential for business traffic to and from the region. By con-necting Copenhagen with Bahrain we are opening up new doors ofopportunity for trade and tourism for both countries.By re-connecting Nairobi with Bahrain we are re-opening the hugecommercial and tourism opportunity for entrepreneurs and busi-nessmen from both markets. We are confident this new route will bea success for both our passenger and cargo operations, and we lookforward to facilitating business and leisure traffic between the twocountries and beyond.

Copenhagen as Denmarks largest city is a major regional center ofculture, business, media and science. With the largest airport inScandinavia, Copenhagen is popular for hosting regional head-quarters of large international companies.Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, is the financial and tourism capital of theEast Africa region and a city that has something for everyone. Just

outside the city is Nairobi National Park, comprising 113 sq kms ofvast plains, cliffs and forests that is home to many of the worldsrarest animals.Gulf Air will be operating a Boeing 737 aircraft in a two-class con-figuration of sixteen Falcon Gold seats and seventy-eight seats inEconomy to Copenhagen and an Airbus A320 in a two-class config-uration of 16 seats in Falcon Gold and 120 in Economy, and has thecapacity to carry 4 tons of freight to Nairobi. Flights to Nairobi aresubject to the required clearances being obtained.Bookings for the flights are now open with an attractive launch fareat www.gulfair.com. Customers can also book their tickets throughthe Gulf Air worldwide Contact Centre at 17335777 or through anyGulf Air sales offices or Gulf Air travel agents.

MILES & MORE MYCHOICE:

CHOOSE YOUR FAVOURITE

ROUTE IN EUROPE AND

EARN EVEN MORE MILES

From 1 May to December 2011 frequently flown routes will be worthtwo or three times as much to Miles & More members. With the new

mileage promotion, myChoice, you can select your preferred routewithin Europe and earn double or triple extra award miles on it.So your mileage account will fill up even faster - and your dreamaward will be within reach even sooner.On your preferred route you will earn double miles per flight in Econ-omy ClassOn your preferred route you will earn triple miles per flight in Busi-ness Class

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