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WWW.TRAVELTRADEMAGAZINE.COM NOVEMBER 2011 FEATURES INDUSTRY NEWS l FEATURE DESTINATIONS l INTERVIEWS l TRAVEL TECH and MUCH MORE!
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WWW.TRAVELTRADEMAGAZINE.COM
NOVEMBER 2011
FEATURES
INDUSTRY NEWS l FEATURE DESTINATIONS l INTERVIEWS l TRAVEL TECH
and MUCH MORE!
traveltrade
MESSAGE FROMTHE EDITORThanks for taking the time to read the
November edition. In this issue we take a trip to South America and highlight Brazil
as our Destination of the Month. We had the opportunity to speak with Brazil’s new Minister of Tourism Gastao Vieira and Wanja Nobrega to discuss the importance of the growth within the Brazilian tourism industry. The plan labeled “Plano Aquarela 2020” sets the new goals Brazil intends to achieve until 2020 with regards to international tourism. With the FIFA World Cup coming up in 2014 and the Olympic games in 2016, Brazil is set to attract an ever increasing foreign interest. We also made sure we have Argentina and Chiles represented as well, giving you a knowledgeable view of South America tourism.
In our industry report, we take a look at the importance of eco-aviation in the industry today, and focus on the A320-the first
commercial biofuel airliner. We also check in with the new Carnival Cruises new ship Carnival Magic and their focus on themed cruises.We are extremely happy with the expanded readership that we have gained since our last issue, so it’s only fitting that we take the time to thank you, our readers, for your continued support; we wouldn’t have a magazine without you.
Again if you have any questions, please email at [email protected]
Paul WestonEditor inChief
Travel Trade Magazine
magazine teamEDITOR:
Paul Weston t. 647.933..9070 x 207 e. [email protected]
PRODUCTION MANAGER:
Brian Andersen t. 647.933..9070 x 211 e. [email protected]
PRODUCTION MANAGER:
Jason Alexander t. 647.933..9070 x 212 e. [email protected]
PRODUCTION MANAGER:
Kevin Baxter t. 647.933..9070 x 205 e. [email protected]
GRAPHIC DESIGN:
Maxine Chambers Jake Diaz e. [email protected]
WRITERS :
Ryan Jack
t. 647.933..9070 e. [email protected]
Kim Walker
t. 647.933..9070 e. [email protected]
Kelli Pavlovec
t. 647.933..9070 e. [email protected]
advertisingview www.traveltrademagazine.com/media-kit/ for our Media Kit.
AD SALES: t. 647.933..9070 x 211 e. [email protected]
Subscribe? Follow this link to subscribe to Travel Trade Magazine
magazine contact
EDITOR: Paul Weston EMAIL: [email protected] WEB: www.traveltrademagazine.com
Published by Select Digital Media, 100 Western Battery Rd, Toronto, On, Canada
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MOTOROLA XOOMTRAVEL TECHNOLODY AND GADGETS16
G ADVENTURES EMBRACE THE UNEXPECTED AND IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE EXTRAORDINARY18
BRUSSELS TRAVEL EXPOAND OTHER SHOWS IN OUR INDUSTRY EVENTS CALENDAR14
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Message from the Editor ..............................................03A quick introduction and updates from our editor Paul Weston
Travel Trade News ....................................................08-13The latest industry news and hot topics
Upcoming Industry Events .................................14-15Travel Industry Events listings and Trade Shows worldwide
Travel Technology ..................................................16-17Gadgets and travel tools for the road warrior
G Adventures............................................................18-21The great adventure people
Carnival Cruise Magic ...........................................22-24Carnivals latest state-of the-art cruise ship
Brazil ............................................................................26-36Gastao Vieira and Wanja Nobrega talk Plano Aquarela 2020
CARNIVAL CRUISES INTRODUCING ITS 100TH ADDITION, CARNIVAL MAGIC
DESTINATION OF THE MONTH BRAZIL - THE IMPORTANCE OF GROWTH WITHIN THE BRAZILIAN TOURISM INDUSTRY
26
ARGENTINA"PARIS OF SOUTH AMERICA" OFFERS THE BEST IN TRAVEL38
CHILECULTURE RICH COUNTRY SPANNING BEAUTIFUL COASTS TO SNOW-CAPPED MOUNTAINS
2012 FIFA WORLD CUPBRAZIL IS SOCCER COUNTRY, AND NOW THEY’RE HOSTING THE 2012 FIFA WORLD CUP!
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Argentina ...................................................................38-40 Improve foreign and domestic viability in Latin America
Chile .............................................................................42-45Record breaking tourism boom
Eco-Aviation .............................................................46-47Bio fuel initiatives major focus in 2012
Advertisers:Singapore ..................................................................................................02 Swain Tours ...............................................................................................25 Copa Airlanes ...........................................................................................30 Majestic Tours ..........................................................................................33 TAM Airlines ..............................................................................................37 TravelShake.com .....................................................................................40 Red Savannah ..........................................................................................41G Adventures ..........................................................................................45Emirates .....................................................................................................48
ECO-AVIATIONINDUSTRY REPORT ON THE IMPORTANCE OF BIO FUEL. 46
7
traveltradeNEWS
TRAVEL NEWS
Earlier in the year Google’s $700 Million acquisition of ITA software was an unprecedented move that marks the beginning of the search giant’s foray into online travel. Fairsearch.org, a coalition that has some of the biggest players in the online travel industry including Expedia, Travelocity and Kayak, was formed to lobby against this acquisition. Experts in the travel industry have always agreed that the online travel booking segment has not been able to come up with significant developments when it comes to the actual booking process. With the advent of Google, things are looking to get a shake-up for sure.
Google’s acquisition of ITA and the resultant transfer of technology for flight bookings, experts agree that there is room in the industry for a technology shift; the ultimate benefit thereby going to the consumers.
Japan will offer 10,000 foreigners free airfares to visit the country next year, in an attempt to increase the tourism industry which has been hit by the ongoing nuclear disaster, the Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper reported. The number of foreign tourists to Japan fell more than 50 per cent year-on-year in the three months after the March 11 earthquake and tsunami that triggered meltdowns and explosions at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant.
The Japan Tourism Agency plans to ask would-be travelers to submit online applications for the free flights, and the agency will select the successful entrants and ask them to write a report about their trip which will be published on the internet. The program, which will require travelers to cover other costs such as accommodation, is expected to start from next April, subject to government budgetary approval.
Japan offers 10,000 free Airfares to Travelers in 2012
Google moving into Travel to exploit the flaws in OTA
8
TRAVEL NEWS
Turkey is one of the most visited places in the Middle East growing 28.6 percent in 2011 so far, and proves how ecotourism and historical tourism are very rich in their region.
Mainly focused on many archeological tourist spots, prestige beach resorts and medical tourism, Turkey has been growing rapidly as over one million Arabs go to Turkey soils, from 912,000 last 2010, which is an increase of 500,000 and still counting.
High-spending Arabs are going to be in need of Turkish weather for the summer. There also reports that due to the increasing number of Turkish TV shows, movies and music being played in Saudi Arabia, it has supported the influx of Arab tourists to go to Turkey during peak seasons.
Hilton Worldwide opened its first hotel in Russia only three years ago when it launched the Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya within one of the city’s famous “Seven Sisters” skyscrapers, and now is ready to open four new hotel properties in the cities of Moscow, Kazan and Volgogard, with a potential 11 hotels in the future.
The four new hotels will be the 200 room Hilton Kazan, set to open in the spring of 2014, the 432 room DoubleTree by Hilton Moscow Vnukovo Airport currently geared for 2013, the 156 room Hampton by Hilton Volgograd Profsoyuznaya, scheduled to open in late 2013, and the 160 room Hilton Garden Inn Volgograd due to open at the end of 2012.
Hilton has also penned to build 11 further hotels in “target locations” including Volgograd, Novosibirsk, Rostov-on-Don and Ufa.
Hilton announces massive Russia expansion
Turkey becoming Top Tourist Spot in Middle East
9
After 21 years of working in the global clothing line Abercrombrie and Fitch, former global group managing director, George Morgan Grenville, resigned last July 2011 and has transferred from the fashion industry to own a luxurious travel business. Grenville now owns a luxury tour operation under the name of Red Savannah, after his trademarked name, White Savannah during his stint in A&K, launched this autumn or on November 6th.
Tours will be held in 7 African and Asian countries such as Botswana, Tanzania, Congo, Morocco, Burma, Sri Lanka and Vietnam. There would also be villa rentals in some European countries such as Spain, France, Italy, the United Kingdom and ski cottages for the Swiss trips.
TRAVEL NEWS
NEWS
Red Savannah Luxury Tour Operator launches November 2011
traveltrade
While the number of U.S. travelers to Canada has decreased in recent years, due to factors such as the new passport requirement, a reduction in Canadian marketing promotions in the U.S., and a rising Canadian dollar, NTA President Lisa Simon said that the path to rebuilding U.S. tourism to Canada lies in tapping growth markets.
Simon cited a dramatic rise in the number of tour operators and suppliers creating new programs, products and services that cater to the interests of upward-trending markets: Intergenerational families, faith-based groups, adventure seekers, students and baby boomers, as well as independent travelers.
“Looking at today’s operator marketplace, NTA sees many opportunities involving new business, burgeoning markets and a fresh way of looking at the tried and true.”
NTA Urges Growth for U.S. to Canada Tourism
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TRAVEL NEWS
With the economy in China as strong as it is, and with a population of 1.34 Billion, the fact that it also has a burgeoning middle class market means that it is a big potential for the travel and cruise sectors.
With more and more of the Chinese Millionaires travellers looking to cruise as a way of spending their vacation; Star Cruises, Costa Cruises and Royal Caribbean International, have all pioneered into this market.
They have made the investments, the marketing and created the infrastructure that will ensure that the interested Chinese nationals find it easier to book their dream cruise. This market is massive, anywhere from 70 Million to 300 Million (according to varrying Chinese sources).
Sydney has always been a firm favourite among the traveling community for its warm climates, fantastic beaches and the overall attractions that are in store. However British travelers particularly enjoy the warm climates and go there in hordes every year.
The Australian bureau of statistics has mentioned that more than 647,000 tourists have come to Australian to enjoy its wonders in 2010.
This year the Australian tourism industry has seen a consecutive rise in the tourist influx for three months. One reason for the rise is the fact that there are several cheap flights to Sydney that are available. Further to that, British tourists love enjoying the warmer climates in Australia and beat the cold and damp climate when winter arrives in Europe.
Australia Top Spot for British Tourists this Winter
Market in China - Middle Class Provides a Lucrative Market for the Cruise Industry
11
traveltradeNEWS
South African Airways, Finnair, and Alitalia will allow travel agents to shop, book and ticket all their ancillary products through the Sabre GDS. All three airlines will leverage Electronic Miscellaneous Document (EMD) capability to process the ancillaries. EMDs allow travel agencies to process fees for items such as seat upgrades or checked baggage when tickets are purchased.
“Continuing to expand our merchandising helps everyone in the travel supply chain more money and get closer to customers, while at the same time allowing travel agents to maintain streamlined and efficient operational processes.” said Chris Kroeger, senior vice president of marketing for Sabre Travel Network.
Several Airlines make Additional Products Available in Sabre GDS
Amtrak has a new angle on its pitch as a more pleasant alternative to air travel - free Wi-Fi. The rail operator is adding complimentary wireless Internet service on several popular routes in the Northeast. With the addition of Wi-Fi on Northeast Regional (Boston to Virginia); Empire Service (New York City-Buffalo); and Keystone (New York-Harrisburg, Pa.), Amtrak now offers the amenity on its least-expensive trains. Previously, only passengers on premium Acela service enjoyed free Wi-Fi.
The next major expansion will be in California, where the Capitol Corridor, Pacific Surfliner and San Joaquin will be fitted with free Wi-Fi by the end of this year. At that point, the line claims in a press release that “75 percent of all Amtrak passengers will have access to on-board Wi-Fi.”
Amtrak adds Free Wi-Fi on Northeast routes
12TRAVEL NEWS
Queen Mary 2 has been taken out of the water, refitted with new carpets, curtains, bed covers and linens and some new furniture as well. Beginning on November 24th, 2011 and faced with a December 7 completion date, thousands of workers will be deployed into precision teams to complete this time-sensitive massive project. More than 6,000 items will be replaced or recovered.
The last refurbishment of the Queen Mary 2 was in 2008, so it’s just about time for a sprucing up collaboration. Once again, the noted Tillberg Design AB in Höganäs, Sweden will partner with Cunard, as they did with the Queen Mary 2’s original design, to maintain the inherent charm and sophistication of this iconic ship.
Travellers visiting China will soon be offered a distinctive new accommodation option in the form of the St Regis Tianjin, a cube-shaped hotel made of steel and glass that appears to rise from the Hai river. Its interior layout, was influenced by the Art Deco and Art Nouveau movements and boasts features such as The Golden Times - a piece by Chinese ceramicist Zhu Legeng that comprises 230 handmade tiles depicting waves, ripples and cobblestones.
The hotel offers 274 guest rooms and 36 suites, including the largest presidential suite in Tianjin. Visitors can sample Cantonese cuisine at the Yan Tiang restaurant or head to Riviera to enjoy modern French food while soaking up the Parisian brasserie-style atmosphere.
Queen Mary 2 Receives Royal Treatment
St. Regis opens cube shaped hotel in Tianjin
13TRAVEL NEWS
EVENTS THISNOVEMBERNOVEMBER 14-17THINTERNATION-AL GOLF TRAVEL MAR-KET –BELEK, ANTALYA, TURKEY
IGTM is the meeting place for the world of golf travel. Over 600 golf tourism suppliers join 350 pre-qualified buyers and 140 inter-national press for four days of pre-scheduled appointments, net-working opportunities and industry updates.
MORE INFORMATION: www.igtm.co.uk
NOVEMBER 15THMEETINGS QUEST TRADE-SHOW CHICAGO - CHI-CAGO CROWNE PLAZA
One of the most com-prehensive exhibi-
tions for the Hospital-ity industry. Hosted regionally, Meetings Quest offers outstand-ing opportunities to do business with meeting professionals, show-case new products and services, adver-tise new renovations, and discuss industry trends.
MORE INFORMATION: www.tsnn.com
NOVEMBER 17THDENVER RE-CEPTION & TRADE SHOW- RED LION HO-TEL DENVER SOUTHEAST, AURORA, COLORADO
Denver Reception & Trade Show is one of the biggest and most efficient ways to come face-to-face with the best Travel Agents, Meeting Planners,
Group Coordinators & Event Planners. This show is exclusively for professional travel arrangers and are not open to the public.
MORE INFORMATION: www.tradefairlist.com
NOVEMBER 29TH - DECEMBER 1STTHE GLOBAL MEETING S & EVENTS EXHI-BITION- FIRA GRAN VIA, BARCELONA, SPAIN
EIBTM is the leading global event for the meetings and events
featured event
NOVEMBER 28THTOURISM EXPO- HALIFAX WORLD TRADE CONVENTION CENTRE, HALIFAX, CANADA Tourism Expo ranks as one of the leading tourism industry-related trade shows in entire Canada. The event, which is hosted at the World Trade And Convention Centre in Halifax, boasts of a large number of visiting participants, at each of its editions. A number of topical meetings with tourism industry experts are arranged during the show, and attending business get the chance to interact directly with over 500 conference delegates and prospective customers at the show.
MORE INFORMATION: www.conferenceontourism.com
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industry, taking place in the award winning business and tourism destination of Barce-lona. The event gathers over 14,200 indus-try professionals for three days of focused access to a dynamic business environment, thought provoking professional education and business net-works.
MORE INFORMATION: www.eibtm.com
DECEMBER 2 - 4THMONTE CARLO TRAVEL MARKET (MCTM) GIRMALDI FORUM, MONACO
Monte Carlo Travel Market is a leading trade fair organizer in Monaco. It’s main objective is to ensure a continuous construc-tive and quality devel-opment of MCTM in order to sustain itself as an optimal busi-ness platform for all, Exhibitors, Professional Buyers, and High-end Consumers.
MORE INFORMATION: www.monte-carlo-travel-market.com
DECEMBER 5 - 8THINTERNATION-AL LUXURY TRAVEL MAR-KET- CANNES, FRANCE
Operating as an ‘in-vitation only’ event, ILTM strictly selects the world’s most elite luxury travel buyers and sought after sup-pliers. Their product showcase represents the industry’s diversity, offering everything from remote desti-nations and unique travel experiences to boutique hotels and luxury transport. ILTM turns 10 this year and through its continued success is the event of choice for business growth, effective net-working and gaining insight into the latest trends in the luxury travel industry.
MORE INFORMATION: www.iltm.net
DECEMBER 6 - 8THLUXURY TRAVEL EXPO MANDALAY BAY RESORT & CASINO, LAS VEGAS
Luxury Travel Expo is the industry’s largest gathering of luxury travel professionals. The show’s successful formula consists of an unrivaled educational program and am-ple exhibit hall hours
where luxury suppliers and travel advisors can network.
MORE INFORMATION: www.luxurytravel-expo.com
WANT YOUR EVENT FEATURED HERE?
Feel free to keep us posted of any other industry events or conferences we may have left out.
Email: [email protected]
featured event
NOVEMBER 14-17THBRUSSELS TRAVEL EXPO- SQUARE BRUSSELS MEETING CENTRE, BRUSSELS, BELGIUM Brussels Travel Expo 2011 is an exhibition that is dedicated completely to the travel professionals and travel & tourism industry. It is one of the most engrossing events held in Belgium. The event talks of the contemporary trends in Tourism, Leisure, Sport. It also gives you an opportunity to meet your future colleagues, partners and clients.
MORE INFORMATION: www.btexpo.com
TRAVEL GADGETS
#1 MOTOROLA XOOMLoads Web pages in a second and offers videoconferencing.www.motorola.com.
PRICE $800.00
#1 Motorola Xoom
Google’s Android platform is giving the iPad a run for its money, thanks in no small part to the 10.1-inch Mo-
torola Xoom. Not only does it access Flash-based sites and videos (still
inaccessible on the iPad), but it also loads Web pages in a second and offers glitch-free videoconferencing, courtesy of Verizon’s speedy LTE 4G network.
16TECHNOLOGYPRODUCTS
FOR THE ROAD WARRIOR
#3 MAGELLAN EXPLORIST 710This rugged, waterproof handheld GPS keeps hikers and bikers on track with topographical U.S. maps and keeps everyone else on course with road and city maps that span the globe.
PRICE: $550 MORE INFORMATION: www. magellangps.com
#7 MOPHIE JUICE PACK AIRThe elegant remedy to the iPhone’s short battery life? This slim case that doubles as a mobile charger. It’s essential for app-obsessed travelers who drain their handsets in less than a day.
PRICE: $80 MORE INFORMATION: www.mophie.com
#4 CANON POWERSHOT D10This 12.1-megapixel point-and-shoot snaps crisp and colorful images both on the ground and undersea. Waterproof up to 33 feet, it can also withstand eve-rything from shocks to freezing temperatures, making it great for pools, beaches, and even ski slopes.
PRICE: $300 MORE INFORMATION: www. shop.usa.canon.com
#8 MICROSOFT ARC TOUCH MOUSEMost travel mice are too small to be used comfortably yet too big to fit into, say, a laptop sleeve. When turned on, the Arc Touch trans-forms into a curvy mouse with the requisite right and left buttons, but folds completely flat when switched off, making it a cinch to tuck into the smallest of spaces.
PRICE: $70 MORE INFORMATION: www.microsoft.com
#5 MOTOROLA ATRIX 4GIt may look like a standard Android phone, but its computer-caliber dual-core processor and 4G capability make the Atrix faster than the competition. And, in a new twist for smartphones, it can even be used as a computer when connected to Motorola’s special HD monitor and Bluetooth keyboard and mouse.
PRICE: $200 with contract MORE INFORMATION: www.amazon.com
#9 V-MODA VIBRATOFor stellar bass without sacrificing midrange clarity, these head-phones edged out pricier rivals in our multi-music-genre trials. Plus, there’s a built-in mic so you can make and answer phone calls.
PRICE: $130 MORE INFORMATION: www.v-moda.com
#6 BLACKBER-RY PLAYBOOKLinking directly to BlackBerry handhelds, the PlayBook allows users to check e-mail, calendars, and to-do lists on a 7-inch touch screen. But until it gets its own built-in e-mail client—and a way to get online besides Wi-Fi—its appeal will mainly be limited to BlackBerry devotees. The com-pany plans to fill in these blanks with future models, but the clock ticks fast in tech time.
PRICE: Not yet priced MORE INFORMATION: www us.blackberry.com
#2 OLYMPUS PEN E-PL2The fourth-generation micro-four-thirds Pen marries the lens versatility of a professional-grade camera (great for shooting close-ups and low-light scenes) with a travel-friendly size. It also has easy-to-use 720p HD video ca-pability and a detachable Penpal device that lets you send images to your phone wirelessly.
PRICE: $600 MORE INFORMATION: www.getolympus.com.
17TECHNOLOGYPRODUCTS
G Adventures, the world’s largest independent adventure travel company, maintains its base camp in Toronto, with employees stationed worldwide. Founded by world traveler and relentless marketer Bruce Poon Tip, G Adventures defies boundaries by offering an up-close and personal approach to travel, connecting small groups of explorers with local people, culture, and cuisine, in a sustainable manner.
Written by Kelli Pavlovec
THE MAN BEHIND THE NAME
In 1990, after returning from a trip to Asia, Poon Tip envisioned a travel experience that offered more than
tourism from the back of a bus, and from there, G Adventures was born. With a meager startup capital of two personal credit cards, Poon Tip has advanced from being the laughingstock of meetings for his non-traditional ideas, to the award-winning, iconic legend that he is today. Now boasting 1350 employees, G Adventures guides over 100,000 travelers a year through once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
A Small-Group Approach to Travel
TREND-SETTING TRAVEL
Always the avid traveler, Poon Tip identified a niche in small-group travel, somewhere in between backpacking and mainstream touring. Of his early days, he says, “I put together a few tours and developed a new way of travel that combined the grassroots experience of backpacking with the comfort of a tour. There was the security of a group but the independence of backpacking.”
G Adventures retains that same mentality today, offering more than 1,000 tours, expeditions, and safaris on all seven continents, appealing to a wide range of preferences, from sailing in the Ganges, to kayaking in Lake Titicaca, to a homestay in Guatemala. All of G Adventure’s offerings embody the attitude of its first brochure that blatantly stated, “If you’d like all the comforts of home, we suggest you stay home.”
G Adventures stands out from the crowd, not only because of innovative ideas, but also for its commitment to customer service. With 24/7 service, lifetime deposits, and a polar bear spotting guarantee termed a “Bear-antee” for Arctic adventures, G Adventures is obsessed with quality service.
ECOTOURISM SINCE THE BEGINNING
Organizing small, minimal footprint travel groups that
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are never larger than 12, G Adventures started incorporating ecotourism before the term was even popular by employing local guides, supporting small-scale hotels, and using UNESCO World Heritage Sites. G Adventures further demonstrates social responsibility through its own Planeterra, a non-profit organization promoting voluntourism and sustainable community development.
ADVENTURES ON THE HORIZON
G Adventures recently rolled out a brand-new collection of North American tours. “We’re excited to expand our portfolio of award-winning adventures to include the North America market. From the Grand Canyon, Death Valley, Yosemite and Canadian Rockies, to vibrant
cities like New York, Toronto and San Francisco, there is so much to discover right here in our own back yard,” says Poon Tip.
Also in the works for 2012, G Adventures is launching a new program called Local Living, offering tours that embed travelers in authentic culture to experience local living first-hand, where they can embark on the same daily activities, trod the same ground, and learn to make the same food as locals.
Always on the verge of a new idea, Poon Tip says, “We still spend every minute of our waking hours dreaming up new, responsible, and sustainable ways to show travelers the world as it was meant to be seen.”
“We’re excited
to expand our
portfolio of
award-winning
adventures
to include the
North America
market”.FOUNDER BRUCE POON TIP
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THAILANDOne of the many popular tour destinationsG Adverntures offers
LAUNCH OF THE CARNIVAL MAGIC
Carnival prevails a cut above the rest through the perpetual launch of state-of-the-art cruise ships.
Earlier this year, Carnival unveiled the 100th addition to its cruise line, the Carnival Magic, with fleet-wide celebrations resulting in the world’s largest champagne toast at sea.
Carnival Cruise Lines, the world’s largest and most popular cruise operator, leads the industry by following its stated mission to deliver fun, memorable vacations to guests by offering a wide array of quality cruises. Showcasing exciting themed cruises, community involvement, and innovative customer-centric programs, Carnival is widely recognized for its award-winning standard of achievement.
Written by Ryan Jack
Fun Destinations The World’s Most Popular Cruise Line
Carnival Magic
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“This ship is the best in our fleet yet,” says Gerry Cahill, Carnival Cruise Lines’ president and CEO. “With a combination of exciting new features such as the RedFrog Pub, SportSquare and Cucina del Capitano and other popular ‘Fun Ship’ amenities, Carnival Magic epitomizes our company’s continued commitment to providing our guests with fun, memorable vacations at an incredible value.”
CARNIVAL CARES
Presiding over Carnival Magic’s maiden voyage festivities was Lindsey Wilkerson, godmother to the cruise, and also charged with naming the vessel. As ambassador for Carnival and former St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital patient, Wilkerson is a personification of Carnival’s continued partnership with St. Jude.
“Lindsey embodies the spirit of the tremendously talented, compassionate and dedicated individuals at St. Jude who are true heroes in every sense of the word. Lindsey’s selection as godmother is a tribute to the special children of St. Jude, as well as an acknowledgement of the groundbreaking
efforts the organization has made in the fight against childhood cancer,” says Cahill.
Carnival’s fleet-wide “Care to Play: Carnival For St. Jude Kids” fundraising initiative features interactive on-board activities with the goal of raising $3 million over a three- year period, according to Cahill.
AWARD-WINNING SERVICE
As a member of the World’s Leading Cruise Lines, Carnival is committed to excellence, touting an extensive array of annual awards. Carnival was awarded the “Gold Award of Excellence” for service by American Express Travel Service. For two consecutive years,
Carnival’s “Fun Ships” have been voted number one in cruises among Southern Living Magazine’s readership, and Carnival’s sales and group reservations teams earned “best of the best” by CruiseOne for the past four years in a row.
NEW PARTNERSHIPS
Carnival’s dynamic program ventures keep the cruise lines ahead of the game.
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This year, Carnival has joined in strategic partnerships to bring the utmost in entertainment. Carnival teamed up with Comedian George Lopez to present new shipboard comedy club routines, including a comedy contest for consumers coming in 2012. “Laughter is the most public, most infectious expression of fun, so we’re excited to provide our guests with an expanded offering in comedy with our new Punchliner Comedy Clubs,” says Cahill. Also pairing with DJ IRIE to train on-board DJs for an awesome musical experience, Carnival is taking fun to a whole new level.
Carnival announced these partnerships, among others, at the recent unveiling of the cruise lines’ 2.0 Fun Initiative, a program that is dedicated to enhancing on-board destination experiences. “Fun Ship 2.0 is the largest and most ambitious initiative that our company has ever
undertaken and it will serve to significantly transform the Carnival vacation experience for our guests,” says Cahill.
PLANNING THE FUTURE
Always looking for the newest and best in entertainment, Carnival’s innovative “Labs” program solicits customer input,
engaging guests to interactively mold the latest program launches, and inviting new ideas for integration into future cruises.
On the horizon for 2012 is the launch of the Carnival Breeze, a 1,004-foot ship with a Caribbean flair due to set sail in June. As the opening date draws near, Carnival will post announcements and developments related to the project via Facebook, Twitter, and press releases.
“Carnival Magic
epitomizes our
company’s
continued
commitment to
providing our
guests with fun,
memorable
vacations at an
incredible value.” PRESIDENT AND CEO GERRY CAHILLL
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ST_TT_Nov15:Swain Tours FP AD 11/4/11 10:33 AM Page 1
With a population exceeding 200 million, Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world, offering alluring destinations from the infamous Rio de Janeiro to the beautiful Foz do Iguaçu. Brazil has consistently ranked among the top ten destinations in the world for international events since 2006, according to the International Council for Commercial Arbitration.
Written by Paul Weston
GROWTH AND ADVANCEMENTS
With plans to host the FIFA World Cup in 2014 and the Olympic
Games in 2016, Brazil is an emerging contender in the global economy, on track to see surging tourism numbers resulting from the games. The Ministry of Tourism aspires to present Brazil as an attractive destination to game spectators, encouraging attendees to venture out to explore other diverse Brazilian destinations. The end result is expected to be massive growth, bringing jobs and revenue into the country, while diminishing inequality and class distinction. Gastão Vieira Dias, lawyer, political figure, and Minister of Tourism, explains, “A complex country like Brazil needs consistent touristic policies, easy access, great investments, and a clearly professional approach. This is the role the Ministry of Tourism has been playing to help develop the sector in Brazil, working together with other fields of public administration and private initiative, as tourism interfaces with at least 50 other economic sectors and activities.”
28EDITORIALFEATURE
29EDITORIALFEATURE
MINISTER OF TOURISMGASTAO VIEIRA
EDITORIALFEATURE
AQUARELA PLANO 2020
Brazil’s current campaign, the Aquarela Plano 2020, outlines international marketing efforts
for the upcoming world games based on studies from the World Trade Organization, surveys on foreign tourists and potential visitors, and research into internal tourism associations. The main objectives of the plan work primarily toward maximizing tourism while hosting the multitudes of international tourists expected to attend the world sporting events. In addition to drawing foreign currency, Aquarela Plano 2020 states, “Our aim is also the great domestic market for tourism, stimulating Brazilians to travel inside the country during the events, getting to know the host cities and regional routes that are being developed for the events.”
Prodetur, the financial program backing Aquarela Plano 2020, calls for improvements and expansions as a large component of Brazil’s success. According to Wanja Nóbrega, Deputy Consul General and Trade Commissioner, “Most of the infrastructure improvements have already started,” including planning and construction on airports, roads, and stadiums.
Vieira Dias states that “the Brazilian federal government, through its ministries and agencies, intends to invest over $30 billion in resources to improve: Airports, ports, urban mobility, hotel chains, quality of services, etc. The actual results have been proving, throughout the years, that we have been on a successful path to strengthening the image of Brazil abroad and, therefore, to increase the number of tourists visiting the country.”
Impact of the Games
The FIFA World Cup is projected to bring $142.3 billion
to Brazil’s economy until the year 2014, according to a study by Ernst and Young Consultants and the Getulio Vargas Foundation. “This revenue will generate about 3.63 million new job positions per year and $63.48 billion in income for the Brazilian population between 2010-2014,” says Vieira Dias.
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The 2016 Olympic Games, likewise, are expected to boost Brazil’s tourism and economy to new levels. Game spectators will be exposed to Brazil’s culture, providing the tourism sector with plentiful opportunities surrounding the games to promote Brazil as a viable destination. The infamous games are known for their power in revolutionizing host cities, and are expected to produce a robust Brazilian image, stimulating a steady stream of profitability for years to come.
Eco-Tourism
Brazil readily embraces greening initiatives, as Prodetur examines the sustainability of all projects before approving budget appropriations. Brazil also offers programs extending lower interest rates to hotels committed to observing established greening standards.
Touristic communitarian experiences likewise benefit urban communities outside of popular tourism areas. This special program points tourists to small villages in the Amazon, giving visitors a unique insight into local living, while at the same time providing a better standard of living for the residents.
Overcoming Challenges
The Ministry of Tourism encounters challenges with educating the public and private sector in the importance of securing funding for Brazil’s tourism development.
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According to Vieira Dias, “One of the greatest challenges about the Tourism in Brazil is to build a new culture in the country and make people understand that the industry is a very important source of income and job occupations with the extra advantage that tourism is non-pollutant and contributes to the sustainability of the environment, culture, and historic sites. We have a great potential, considering the cultural, environmental and ethical diversity.”
Future Tourism Strategies
In speaking of Aquarela Plano 2020’s current and future success, Vieira Dias says, “With this set of strategies, we have made Brazil reach a higher position as a tourism destination, increasing the offer of products and destinations in the brochures of international tour operators. We have implemented a new style of communication and a brand that is recognized by 20% of foreign tourists. We have placed the country as one of the leading destinations in South America. And, since 2006, we have been among the top ten destinations for international events in the world.”
In preparing for the future, Nóbrega points out that the last 10 years have given rise to an emerging middle class in Brazil, a class that is now travelling internally, contributing to Brazil’s outbound
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tourism numbers. A recent study conducted by the Ministry of Tourism, the Study of International Demand in Brazil, likewise shows a recent rise in South Americans visiting Brazil. As a result, the ministry is turning future marketing efforts inward to appeal to Brazilians, and is projecting ongoing campaigns toward neighbouring South American visitors.
Social Media Promotions
Brazil stays on the cutting edge of social media, with both the Ministry of Tourism and Embratur endorsing tourism via Facebook, Twitter, and other mediums such as Flickr and YouTube. Embratur’s “National Team of the 12 Host Cities” website is specifically geared toward promoting the upcoming World Cup, and a website called “BrazilTour360” offers navigational, 360 degree tours of top destinations
TRADE COMMISSIONER FOR THE CONSULATE GENERAL OF BRAZIL IN TORONTOWANJA NOBREGA
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TOURISM BOOMING
Argentina’s Tourism Minister Enrique Meyer
pronounced 2011 as the “year of Argentina,” and thus far the country is on track to fulfill the optimistic forecast. This March, the number of tourists rose by 104 percent over the same time last year. Minister Meyer further predicts that “tourism in Argentina will grow at a rate of 10% annually until 2020, compared with the world average of 4.1%.”
Attributing education as a key factor in Argentina’s success, Minister Meyer states, “Argentina has the best prepared and best educated population in South America. This translates into superior service and greater customer satisfaction.”
The overwhelming expansion of Argentina’s tourism directly influenced Minister Meyer’s advancement from the title of Secretary to Minister in 2010. At Meyer’s swearing-in ceremony, Argentine President Cristina
Home to Buenos Aires, the “Paris of South America,” Argentina offers today’s tourists striking architecture, remarkable cuisine, and breathtaking scenes, from Patagonia’s glaciers to the expansive Andes.
Written by Kelli Pavlovec
TOURISM MINISTERENRIQUE MEYER
DESTIN TION rgentinaA38
Fernandez de Kirchner applauded the growth incline, stating, “Tourism statistics have been incredible and the amount of tourists and dollars that have entered the country since 2003 have more than doubled.”
Plans to Advance Tourism GrowthAGREEMENTS
Within the past year, Argentina launched a Federal Plan for Sustainable Tourism,
promoting inward investment into infrastructure and education as an industry solution. The plan includes a British Airways agreement to promote Argentina as an attractive destination via BA’s widespread offices, airline magazines, and lounges. At the launch, Minister Meyer announced British Airways’ introduction of non-stop flights between London and Buenos Aires, which is expected to generate a boost in Argentine tourism.
Also on the tourism front is a recent agreement between Argentina and Chile to promote travel to their countries as a joint venture. Argentina is consistently a leader in Latin American tourism, and the new agreement proposes to combine efforts in both attracting foreign tourists, and simplifying border crossings.
LGBT COMMUNITY & ARGENTINA
With Argentine President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner’s recent signing of a law legalizing same-sex marriage, Argentina expects by demonstration of acceptance and open-mindedness to drive a rise in lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender tourism. Commenting on the sanction, Minister Meyer states, “Argentina is already standing out...interest in terms of tourism is already rising as this is a country that is more open than others in terms of rights and how it treats its citizens.”
OVERCOMING OBSTACLES
In efforts to preemptively prevent setbacks in the industry, Argentina’s Chamber of Tourism foresees the devaluation of the Brazilian dollar as a potential issue for Argentine tourism. Brazil’s declining dollar is expected to drive tourism out of Argentina and into Brazil, as well as decrease the number of Brazilian tourists visiting Argentina. Minister Meyer’s answer
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to the challenge is the development of a new program designed to retain Argentine tourism. Meyer is likewise combining efforts with the Minister of Economy to ensure all areas of concern are addressed.
FUTURE VENTURES
For the future, Argentina is in the running to host the World Cup in 2030 with Uruguay. The two countries are bidding to jointly organize the world’s most widely viewed sporting event. According to Minister Meyer,
“Hosting a World Cup is very important for both countries and the region in general. A World Cup brings a large increase in tourism and a significant investment in infrastructure, both of which impact the economy favorably.”
Minister Meyer also expects positive outcomes from the revelation that Dakar’s off-road rally will again take place in Argentina, given the huge success of past events. The rally is projected to be watched by over 2.5 billion television viewers in 170 countries, boosting Argentine exposure.
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ChileParadise Found
Home to world-class ski resorts, the mysterious Easter Island, and Torres del Paine, Chile is a culture-rich country
spanning from beautiful coasts to snow-capped mountains..
Written by Kelli Pavlovec
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RECORD-BREAKING TOURISM
With two Chilean hotels recently voted “Best of Latin America” in Condé
Nast Traveller’s 2011 Gold List, Chile is an increasingly popular tourist destination.
Lately, Chilean tourism has boomed, with a record number of 1,043,042 foreign tourists visiting in the first quarter of this year. In fact, March saw a ten-year high in visitors, up 49.6 percent from the same time last year.
This rise is attributed in part to business travelers. According to Chile’s Deputy Secretary for Tourism Jacqueline Plass, the country’s first female Tourism Sub-secretary, “One of the main causes of this growth is the increasing importance of business tourism and conventions in Chile. In 2005 only 17 percent of visitors to the country said they came on business, and last year that figure increased to 27 percent.”
“This increase leaves us satisfied, now that the promotional strategies we have embarked on in various countries have proven to be beneficial to Chile,” said Plass.
PLANS TO BOOST TOURISM
Such strategies continue to be employed and developed by both Plass and Pablo
Longueira Montes, Chile’s Minister of Economy, Development, and Tourism. At Latin America’s 2011 South American Hotel and Tourism Investment Conference (SAHIC), which was hosted by Chile in September, Plass unveiled a six-level strategy designed to boost tourism, which included foreign investment. Minister Longueira solicited tourism investment at the conference, stating, “I invite you to invest in Chile – a country which, I believe, is set to become first choice in Latin America.”
Chile’s cruise industry is likewise expected to spark an influx of tourists, as a law was
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recently passed allowing ships to operate casinos while sailing in Chilean waters. “For the coming season 2011/12 we already have a 20 percent increase in the number of international cruise calls, which represents approximately an extra 7 million dollars visitors will spend when they come ashore for transport, tours, restaurants, souvenirs, gifts and other items,” says Plass.
Recent announcements that the Merchant Navy Department and Maritime Transport are issuing substantial rebates in port access and docking operations are expected to further benefit tourism by way of inviting more cruise traffic to Chile.
Also this year, the Chilean government launched a $169 million plan expected to bolster foreign and business tourism in Araucanía, located in Southern Chile. The
proposed undertaking consists of improved transportation, a geo-referencing system for the area, airport updates, and new tourism packages. “This plan weaves together the concepts of Araucanía’s identity as a tourist destination where you can take part in many experiences promoted by Chile’s tourism industry: nature, sports and adventure; culture and village life; hot springs and spas; entertainment, food and wines; as well as business and convention tourism,” says Plass. Argentine Partnership
A new partnership with Argentina is expected to facilitate a rise in travel, as Argentina is a prime feeder to Chilean tourism. “The standard for long distance tourists is to travel to Latin America, and not specifically to Chile. In reality 48% of them first visit Argentina, so that is why it’s
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DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR TOURISM JACQUELINE PLASS
This year,
the Chilean
government
launched a $169
million plan
expected to
bolster foreign and
business tourism in
Araucanía, located
in Southern Chile
so important to undertake joint promotion actions and cooperation with Argentina”, says Plass.
FUTURE PLANS
Looking ahead, Chile will be hosting 2012’s Dakar rally, an intense car, truck and motorcycle endurance race, for the fourth consecutive year. The popular race always draws a massive number of spectators, and the continuation of this tradition is expected to play a key factor in Chilean tourism for 2012.
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Eco-AviationSustainable Biofuels in Flight
The airline industry’s innovative application of biofuels, used in conjunction with jet fuel, is aviation’s latest answer to minimizing its carbon footprint. Efforts
geared toward greener aviation have resulted in collaboration across the globe between the airline industry, governments, businesses, and agricultural
communities. Aviation’s focus on sustainable biofuels is expected to minimize the industry’s environmental impact, and allow the billions who travel yearly by
air contribute to a greener planet
Written by Kelli Pavlovec
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LATEST COMMERCIAL BIOFUEL FLIGHTS
Iberia, listed by the Dow-Jones as one of the world’s most environmentally
sustainable airlines for three years in a row, recently launched its inaugural commercial biofuel flight, the first in Spain’s “Green Flight” Project. With a mixture of 75% jet fuel and 25% biofuel derived from camelina, the Airbus A320 flight successfully reported a 1,500 kg reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.
China has followed suit, participating in global eco-aviation efforts with recent announcements of its first biofuel flight, which combined a 50:50 ratio of biofuel and jet fuel. China’s National Energy Administration and Boeing also announced an agreement for further study of regional biofuel development, with results forming the basis for a sustainable aviation biofuels industry. Air China and Boeing are moreover in the planning stages of an international biofuel flight between the US and China.
Other airliners across the board are adopting greening efforts. Lufthansa launched an experimental six-month biofuel route between Hamburg and Frankfurt, resulting in a monthly carbon emissions reduction
of 15 tons. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines likewise introduced regular Amsterdam to Paris service, with flights using a biofuel composite of cooking oil in both engines.
A GREENER FUTURE
Ten airlines recently signed a letter of intent with Solena Fuels proposing to derive jet fuel from post-recycled waste in the future. The fuel will be produced in a plant scheduled to be built in Santa Clara County, California in 2013, and is expected to supply up to 16 million gallons of jet fuel by the year 2015. The project has dual economical benefits, in converting 550,000 tons waste destined for landfills into environmentally-friendly jet fuel.
Also on the horizon is Air Transport World’s 5th Annual Eco-Aviation Conference, dedicated to minimizing commercial aviation’s impact to the environment. Set for June 2012, the upcoming conference will encourage more participation among attendees, and include a first-time Eco-Awards ceremony that will award industry leaders exhibiting green solutions.
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