ΔΙΕΘΝΗΣ ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΗΛΕΚΤΡΟΝΙΚΗ ΕΦΗΜΕΡΙΔΑ ΠΟΙΚΙΛΗΣ ΥΛΗΣ - ΕΔΡΑ: ΑΘΗΝΑ

Ει βούλει καλώς ακούειν, μάθε καλώς λέγειν, μαθών δε καλώς λέγειν, πειρώ καλώς πράττειν, και ούτω καρπώση το καλώς ακούειν. (Επίκτητος)

(Αν θέλεις να σε επαινούν, μάθε πρώτα να λες καλά λόγια, και αφού μάθεις να λες καλά λόγια, να κάνεις καλές πράξεις, και τότε θα ακούς καλά λόγια για εσένα).

Δευτέρα 30 Νοεμβρίου 2015

Homewood Suites by Hilton Opens New Hotel in Savannah


SAVANNAH, Ga. and MCLEAN, Va. - Homewood Suites by HiltonHilton Worldwide's (NYSE: HLT) international brand of upscale, all-suite, extended-stay hotels, announced today its newest property, Homewood Suites by Hilton Savannah Historic District/Riverfront.

"Savannah attracted more than 13 million visitors* last year, and with the fastest growing port in the nation,** the city is poised for growth. With the opening of our latest Homewood Suites by Hitlon, we offer travelers value-driven suite accommodations in this bustling destination." said Bill Duncan, global head, Homewood Suites by Hilton. "Our hotels offer the comforts of home with complimentary amenities like daily, full-hot breakfast and Wi-Fi, to personalized guest service delivering guests the comfort and convenience they seek."

Developed and owned by North Point Hospitality Group, an award-winning hotel development and operations company, Homewood Suites Savannah Historic District/Riverfront is situated in the heart of the city with breathtaking views of the Savannah River. North Point Hospitality Group was recently recognized as Homewood Suites by Hilton Developer of the Year for the Homewood Suites by Hilton Savannah Historic District/Riverfront development project. The hotel will feature 160 suites which will be a combination of studio and one bedroom suites.

Located at 611 East River Street, Homewood Suites Savannah Historic District/Riverfront is a convenient home away from home for short business trips or extended stays in Savannah. Walking distance from the Savannah Riverfront, guests can savor local southern flavors at hundreds of walkable restaurants, shops, museums and entertainment venues, or take in the sites with a trolley tour through the historic district.
The new hotel offers guests inviting, generous all suite-accommodations including fully equipped kitchens, free daily-full hot breakfast and Wi-Fi. Additional essentials include a complimentary evening social Monday-Thursday and grocery shopping service***. In addition, Homewood Suites by Hilton offers recreational options such as a fitness center and rooftop outdoor pool, enabling travelers to "stay in the groove."
Homewood Suites by Hilton Savannah Historic District/Riverfront participates in Hilton HHonors®, the only hotel loyalty program that allows members to earn Points & Miles® on the same stay and No Blackout Dates on reward stays. HHonors members always get our lowest price with our Best Price Guarantee, along with HHonors Points, digital check-in and no booking fees only when they book directly through Hilton. For more information or to make a reservation, visit the Homewood Suites by Hilton Savannah Historic District/Riverfront website or call +1 912 355 0025.

Read more about Homewood Suites by Hilton at www.homewoodsuites.com andnews.homewoodsuites.com

*SOURCE: Savannah Chamber
**SOURCE: 
Savannah Now
***Guest pays for groceries. Other restrictions apply

Norwegian Cruise Line launches ‘Our Gift to You’ festive campaign in Europe


Wiesbaden, 30 November, 2015 – Norwegian Cruise Line has launched its latest campaign – Our Gift to You – offering customers four complimentary offers to choose from when booking a cruise between 1 December 2015 and 3 January 2016. The festive campaign gives guests a great opportunity to customise a gift for their loved ones this Christmas.

And in true Christmas spirit, customers booking one of Norwegian’s worldwide destination itineraries* of five nights or more can take advantage of the offer no matter what accommodation grade is booked, choosing a free gift from:

-       FREE Speciality Dining Package
-       FREE Premium Drinks Package
-       FREE 250-Minute Internet Package
-       FREE $100 on-board spending money

Guests choosing to sail on board Norwegian’s newest ships, Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Getaway in the Caribbean in 2016 can choose from two gifts to enjoy during their cruise.

And, those booking a suite or The Haven by Norwegian® accommodation will benefit from all FOUR offers, providing a truly unforgettable inclusive cruise experience.

12 ships in Norwegian’s Freestyle Cruising® fleet have sailings on offer in conjunction with the promotion so that guests can choose from a range of itineraries matched with the ultimate cruise experience. Itineraries include:

·         A 10-night winter sun Canary Islands & Morocco from Barcelona sailing on board the recently refurbished Norwegian Epic with brand new entertainment offerings including the first Cavern Club at sea. Sailing on 3 and 24 January and 14 February 2016, and travelling: Barcelona (Spain) – Tangier (Morocco) – Las Palmas (Gran Canaria, Spain) – Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Tenerife, Spain) – Funchal (Madeira, Portugal) – Malaga (Granada, Spain) – Barcelona (Spain). Inside Stateroom priced from € 1.009 per person (24 January 2016).

·         A seven-night Eastern Caribbean from Miami sailing on board the brand new Norwegian Escape bringing the next level of Freestyle Cruising® to the sea with a premium contemporary feel. Sailing weekly between 2 January 2016 and 29 April 2017, and travelling: Miami (USA) – Charlotte Amalie (St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands) – Road Town (Tortola, British Virgin Islands) – Nassau (Bahamas) – Miami (USA). Inside Stateroom priced from € 759 per person (30 January 2016).

·         A seven-night Western Caribbean from Miami sailing on board Norwegian Getaway Miami’s own ship which brings the spirit of the magic city to the Caribbean. Sailing weekly between 2 January 2015 and 23 April 2017, and travelling: Miami (USA) –– Ocho Rios (Jamaica) – George Town (Grand Cayman) – Cozumel (Mexico)  – Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian’s Private Island, Bahamas) – Miami (USA) . Inside Stateroom priced from € 799 per person (31 January 2016).

Christian Boell, Managing Director EMEA, Norwegian Cruise Line, said: “This year’s ‘Our Gift to You’ festive offer is our best yet. Guests booking during the Christmas period can take advantage of a truly flexible campaign to make their holiday their own – exactly what cruising with Norwegian is all about. And, all our guests can choose from the same range of gifts to enhance their cruise experience no matter what stateroom grade they choose. Freedom and flexibility is important to our customers and we are taking it to the next level with this campaign.”

For more information, go to www.ncl.eu from 1 December 2015

Αλλαγή σκυτάλης για τον Οργανισμό Λιμένος Ελευσίνας


Ελευσίνα, 30 Νοεμβρίου 2015 - Κατά τη συνεδρίαση της Έκτακτης Γενικής Συνέλευσης του Οργανισμού Λιμένος Ελευσίνας, η οποία πραγματοποιήθηκε στις 10 Νοεμβρίου 2015, εκλέχτηκαν τα μέλη του Διοικητικού Συμβουλίου του Ο.Λ.Ε. ΑΕ, τα οποία αμέσως μετά την εκλογή τους, συνήλθαν και συγκροτήθηκαν σε σώμα.

Η σύνθεση του νέου ΔΣ του ΟΛΕ ΑΕ έχει ως εξής:

ΠΡΟΕΔΡΟΣ και ΔΙΕΥΘΥΝΩΝ ΣΥΜΒΟΥΛΟΣ: Σπυρίδων Μιχαήλ
(στέλεχος επιχειρήσεων με μεγάλη εμπειρία στη διοίκηση εμπορικών και άλλων επιχειρήσεων)
ΑΝΤΙΠΡΟΕΔΡΟΣ: Σπυρίδων Ζέρβας
(πολιτικός μηχανικός με μεγάλη δραστηριότητα σε έργα και υποδομές και μεγάλη εμπειρία σε θέματα λιμένων)
ΑΝΕΞΑΡΤΗΤΟ ΜΗ ΕΚΤΕΛΕΣΤΙΚΟ ΜΕΛΟΣ: Κωνσταντίνα Ζέρβου
ΜΕΛΟΣ: Αθανάσιος Λιάγκος
ΜΕΛΟΣ: Νικόλαος Φιρίππης
ΜΕΛΟΣ: Χρήστος Κατσόγιαννης
ΜΕΛΟΣ: Κωνσταντίνος Χρήστου
Σύμφωνα με το Καταστατικό του ΟΛΕ, η θητεία του μελών του Διοικητικού Συμβουλίου είναι εξαετής.

Ήδη το νέο ΔΣ, με επικεφαλής τον Πρόεδρο και Διευθύνοντα Σύμβουλο Σπύρο Μιχαήλ, έχει αρχίσει σειρά συσκέψεων με τοπικούς φορείς και αρχές προκειμένου να ενημερωθεί και να καταγράψει τα προβλήματα που αφορούν την παράκτια ζώνη, αρμοδιότητας του ΟΛΕ, που εκτείνεται από τον Σκαραμαγκά έως τη Νέα Πέραμο. Την Τετάρτη 25 Νοεμβρίου πραγματοποιήθηκε σε άριστο κλίμα η πρώτη συνάντηση με τον Δήμαρχο Ελευσίνας κ. Γιώργο Τσουκαλά και τους συνεργάτες του, όπου συζητήθηκε το θέμα της σύνδεσης του παράκτιου μετώπου με την πόλη και οι δυνατότητές αξιοποίησής του προς όφελος των δημοτών. Ήδη ο ΟΛΕ προχωρεί στην οριστική αποβολή του διαλυτηρίου ΑΦΟΙ ΣΑΒΒΑ ΕΠΕ από τον χώρο παραχώρησης, ανταποκρινόμενος στο διαχρονικό αίτημα των πολιτών της Ελευσίνας.
Θα ακολουθήσουν συναντήσεις με όλους τους εμπλεκόμενους φορείς προκειμένου να διερευνηθούν οι δυνατότητες επίλυσης του χρόνιου προβλήματος απόδοσης για χρήση της παράκτιας ζώνης στους πολίτες και ειδικότερα στους κατοίκους της Ελευσίνας.


New research for the river cruise industry launched at CLIA River Cruise Convention

The “Future Opportunities of River Cruising” white paper has now been released following its launch at CLIA’s River Cruise Convention 2015 in Amsterdam this weekend. The report highlights the strong future of the global river cruising industry, is available for download here.

Accord, an integrated marketing agency specialising in travel, along with the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the cruise industry trade association, and global research giant GfK, have jointly released “Future Opportunities of River Cruising”, uniting their knowledge of the river cruise sector to deliver insightful statistics on the current perception of the industry and how this could change in future. The study, based on 600+ UK customer interviews, provides an overview of what people currently think about river cruising.

“River cruising provides a huge area of opportunity for growth,” according to Helen Roberts, Consumer & Retail Industry Lead at GfK. “Currently it’s a small share of the holiday market, but one that has the potential to attract a much larger volume of travellers. However the holiday market is increasingly competitive and the choosing and booking process ever more complex.”

The research looks at the challenges in bringing recognition to the river cruise industry. For many providers, it still remains a “well-kept secret” amongst seasoned travellers. Research has shown cruise providers must look at innovative ways to share valuable client experiences with a wider audience in order to increase bookings.

“Our research gives us valuable insight into where that opportunity lies,” continued Roberts. “We discover which travellers to target and identify how to reach them. We put forward suggestions for communications content that will generate bookings and consider which river cruise experiences will excite and inspire the traveller.”

Throughout the world, GfK provides relevant market and consumer information for a wide range of clients. At the company, more than 13,000 market research experts combine their passion to help GfK deliver vital global insights matched with local market intelligence from more than 100 countries. Andy Harmer, Director at CLIA UK & Ireland, said the river cruising sector is important to watch. Through its work, especially within the European Union, the group promotes the various interests of cruise Accord Group Limited. Registered Office: Castlewood, 85 New Oxford Street, London WC1A 1DG.

Registered in England No. 3874258 operators based in Europe. “In 2014, the UK river cruise market increased by 6 per cent to 139,400 passengers,” he said. “River cruising is definitely one of the sectors that is booming; it has a real  destination focus – it is with on-shore activities where we can reflect this new positioning a little easier.”

The publication highlights several key demographics for cruise companies to target in their sales and marketing. In researching the sector, some concrete ways to reach new travellers were identified. These types of cruise enthusiasts are looking for new experiences, and often become aware of river cruising through a variety of channels and campaigns, the research found.

Accord help travel companies and tourism organisations meet their business goals in today’s digitally-focused market. They have a reputation for getting the job done successfully, efficiently and with exceptional value. Delivering ROI is at the heart of all activities.

“Partnering with industry leaders in the cruise sector and market research helps us to be part of an exciting time in the evolution of travel,” said Sally Winfield, Chief Operating Officer for Accord. “We consider this work incredibly important to help us maintain high standards of service for our clients. Like GfK and CLIA, we consider marketing river cruise experiences to be an important part of our future. The study reveals that it is important to remember that river cruises are not only competing with one another but with other types of holidays – mainly with city breaks. As travel marketing experts we can use our wider industry knowledge to the advantage of our clients.”

FUTURE OF GLOBAL LUXURY TRAVEL DRIVEN BY NEW MIDDLE CLASSES FROM EMERGING MARKET

A new luxury travel trends report published today by the world’s leading luxury travel event International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) in association with Euromonitor, highlights a predicted increase in international luxury travel in the face of growing tourism flows from emerging markets and aspirational middle class consumers.  The 14th edition of ILTM opens today in Cannes with 1500 high end travel products and experiences meeting with approximately 1500 luxury travel buyers across the event to build business and business opportunities in over 60,000 one-to-one meetings.
 
Alison Gilmore, Senior Exhibition Director, ILTM Portfolio says:
This exclusive ILTM report spells good news for both luxury travel and luxury spending.  Over a billion extra people will be travelling in 2030, with over 5 billion consumers living in cities – travel infrastructure and mindsets will need to change as the luxury industry evolves.”
 
Luxury travel is expected to see more buoyant growth across the globe with highest growth seen in the Americas, Asia Pacific and the Middle East and Africa, thanks to increasing income and a growing middle class.
 
Germany and the UK are the top source markets from Western Europe. Europe will remain a popular destination, with a weaker euro currently providing good value for money for US tourists.  Russia however is predicted to see minimal growth in outbound trips over 2014-2019 with the MINTS also lagging behind in departures, despite their economic growth, with incomes remaining too low for many citizens to travel.

Worldwide, the report reveals that the number of affluent households is expected to grow between 2015 and 2030. North America will continue to have the wealthiest number of households, but despite the economic slowdown Asia Pacific is still expected to see the fastest increase, posting a predicted 113% growth between 2015 and 2030.  Australasia and North America will follow Asia Pacific, posting growth of 86% and 80% in affluent households respectively, between 2015 and 2030.

Asia Pacific remains the global powerhouse for tourism arrivals, with solid increases predicted for the next five years as the number of travellers continues to expand throughout the region. Second and third tier cities in China are set to welcome more luxury hotel investments as they become increasingly accessible and see large business flow volumes.  Despite a slight slowdown in growth, Chinese outbound travellers are predicted to reach over 87 million by 2019, with the most popular destinations all located in Asia Pacific.
 
Africa and the Middle East will see growing demand and “non-stop investment” with a strong focus on luxury hotels drawing significant attention to the Middle East. In 2014, the region recorded strong average daily rates and occupancy rates but the regions also now boast the fastest growing personal luxury goods sales in the world.
 
Alison Gilmore concludes:
The importance of the internet is key for the luxury goods and travel industry – high end agents understand how essential it is to map out all stages of the traveller’s journey – before, during and after the experience.  Mobile technology is also playing an increasingly important role in the personalisation of luxury travel journeys for travellers from all four corners of the world.”

ILTM takes place 30 November – 3 December when approximately 1500 luxury travel brands (from established hotel brands and resorts to private islands, authentic experiences, gastronomic delights, cruises, spa and safaris meet with a similar number of luxury travel planners, designers and agents in over 60,000 one-to-one, pre-scheduled, mutually matched business appointments.  Over 80 of the world’s most elite luxury travel editors will also be hosted at the event to source new stories and decide their travel features for 2016 and beyond.

For further information, please see www.iltm.com and follow @ILTM_events, #ILTM and #ILTMStory.

Hotel rates on the up across the globe according to latest data from HRS

WEith London retaining its position as the UK and Europe’s most expensive capital to stay in at £140 per night, Edinburgh also kept its position as the second most expensive destination in the UK (£116), seeing a moderate increase of 7 per cent in average room rates compared to the same period last year. For the first time, Bristol emerged as the third most expensive place to stay following an increase of 17 per cent compared with the same quarter in 2014, with an average room costing £96 per night. This could possibly be attributed to the instalment of the hugely popular Shaun in the City trail, as well as the internationally renowned Balloon Fiesta that takes place annually.

Meanwhile, with an increase of 31 per cent in room rates per night in Q3 2015 compared with the same quarter in 2014, Cardiff saw the largest uplift with hotels on average charging £95 per night.

Jon West, Managing Director of HRS for the UK and Ireland, said: “In Cardiff, major sporting events such as the Rugby World Cup (RWC) and The Ashes which took place during Q3 2015, will have contributed to the room rate increases as hoteliers capitalise on the surge in demand from visitors.  Indeed RWC matches played in Cardiff, Gloucester and Exeter could have driven demand for rooms in the area, meaning that Bristol benefited too. This could be one of the reasons why it has moved into the top three most expensive places to stay in the UK. Looking at the UK as a whole, room rates are remaining buoyant as business and leisure travellers continue to have a rise in confidence when it comes to spending.”

Looking at data for Q3 2015, London saw an increase of over 16 per cent compared with Q3 2014.  With average room rates in London now reaching £140 - £15 more per night than the second most expensive European capital, Zurich (£125), Istanbul made a surprise new appearance in the number three spot with an average room rate of £110 per night. 

Milan enjoyed the biggest room rate increase of nearly 20 per cent, with rooms on average now costing £90 per night. Whilst Paris, Rome and Madrid saw minor decreases in their average rates, Moscow’s fell by a massive 20 per cent compared with Q3 2014, seeing rooms sell for just £64 per night in Q3 2015.

Talking about room rate development on the Continent, Jon said: “In Q3 2014, the outlook for average room rates saw just a two per cent rise across the 21 destinations.  However, this year, the picture is certainly changing with an average increase of 9 per cent for the same quarter. The UK meanwhile has seen an average increase of 16 per cent across the nine major cities.”

City travellers continued to find the cheapest rates in Prague – averaging just £49 per night, followed by Warsaw (£53) and Budapest (£56). When it comes to affordability, these competitive rates present these three destinations as food for thought when it comes to holding events and conferences abroad if working to a tight budget.

Finally looking at the international scene, hotel room rates increased across major capital cities globally compared to Q3 2014, reflecting an overall uplift across the global marketplace and showing that consumer confidence is steadily shoring up.

New York, which had previously held the top spot, found itself sharing this position with Boston which saw an increase in room rates of a whopping 35 per cent, bringing its rooms in line with the Big Apple at an average cost of £193 per night.  New York’s rates also grew by nearly 30 per cent. San Francisco followed hot on their heels, where hotel owners set their rates at an average of £169.

Over in Asia, Tokyo enjoyed a huge increase in its room rates, growing by 35 per cent – taking the average nightly cost to £122. On the whole, Asia remains keenly priced – with Kuala Lumpur costing just £50 per night in Q3 2015, travellers could have booked nearly four nights in Malaysia’s capital compared with just one night’s stay in Boston or New York.

Visitors to Thailand appear to have regained confidence in visiting the capital Bangkok – having seen a dramatic decrease in room rates of nine per cent in 2014, data for Q3 2015 reports an increase of one third, with the average room costing £53 per night.

Top UK & Ireland Destinations 1-5***** Hotels
Average room rate for hotel stays in British & Irish cities.
Comparison of average rates, based on non-cancelled bookings. Public and corporate bookings.
Period: 01.07.-30.09.2015. Based on exchange rate from 20.11.15.
Top Destinations UK & Ireland Room rate 1*-5*****      per night Q3 2015Rate development compared to Q3 2014 in %
Birmingham
£78 (111 €)
+19.4%
Bristol
£96 (137 €)
+17.1%
Cardiff
£95 (135 €)
+31.1%
Dublin
£85 (121 €)
+11.0%
Edinburgh
£116 (166 €)
+9.2%
Leeds
£88 (125 €)
+16.8%
Liverpool
£78 (111 €)
+6.7%
London
£140 (199 €)
+ 16.3%
Manchester
£90 (128 €)
+17.4%


Top European Destinations 1-5***** Hotels
Average room rate for hotel stays in European cities.
Comparison of average rates, based on non-cancelled bookings. Public and corporate bookings.
Period: 01.07.-30.09.2015. Based on exchange rate from 20.11.15.

Top Destinations Europe Room rate 1*-5*****      per night Q3 2015Rate development compared to Q3 2014 in %
Amsterdam
£95 (136 €)
+8.8%
Barcelona
£85 (121 €)
+7.1%
Berlin
£66 (94 €)
+4.4%
Brussels
£84 (120 €)
+9.1%
Budapest
£56 (80 €)
+12.7%
Copenhagen
£81 (116 €)
+3.6%
Helsinki
£67 (95 €)
+8.0%
Istanbul
£110 (157 €)
+10.6%
Lisbon
£69 (99 €)
+7.6%
London
£140 (199 €)
+17.1%
Madrid
£62 (88 €)
-4.3%
Milan
£90 (128 €)
+19.6%
Moscow
£65 (92 €)
-20.7%
Oslo
£83 (119 €)
+6.3%
Paris
£95 (135 €)
-1.5%
Prague
£49 (70 €)
+1.4%
Rome
£69 (99 €)
-1.0%
Stockholm
£95 (136 €)
+11.5%
Warsaw
£53 (75 €)
+5.6%
Vienna
£65 (93 €)
+2.2%
Zurich
£125 (178 €)
+17.1%


Top International Destinations 1-5***** Hotels
Average room rate for hotel stays in international cities.
Comparison of average rates, based on non-cancelled bookings. Public and corporate bookings.
Period: 01.07.-30.09.2015. Based on exchange rate from 20.11.15.

Top International Destinations Average room rate
1-5***** per night Q3 2015
Rate development compared to Q3 2014 in %
Bangkok
£53 (76 €)
+33.3%
Boston
£193 (275 €)
+34.8%
Buenos Aires
£77 (110 €)
+19.6%
Cape Town
£62 (89 €)
+14.1%
Chicago
£137 (195 €)
+14.7%
Dubai
£86 (123 €)
+33.7%
Hong Kong
£110 (157 €)
+12.1%
Kuala Lumpur
£50 (71 €)
+4.4%
Miami
£79 (113 €)
+5.6%
Montreal
£85 (121 €)
+12.0%
New York
£193 (275 €)
+29.7%
Beijing
£62 (88 €)
+29.4%
San Francisco
£169 (241 €)
+24.9%
Seoul
£91 (130 €)
+6.6%
Shanghai
£63 (90 €)
+28.6%
Singapore
£121 (172 €)
+11.0%
Sydney
£115 (164 €)
+8.6%
Tokyo
£122 (174 €)
+34.9%
Toronto
£95 (136 €)
+10.6%

Dubai named favourite long haul city break destination, reveals Southall Travel


A travel and holiday survey conducted by Southall Travel, one of the UK’s travel companies, has revealed Dubai as the nation’s favourite long-haul city break destination, gaining a massive 25% of the vote.

The survey of 1,400 British flyers named Dubai, which is expected to welcome one million British visitors during 2016, their favourite long haul destination beating New York to the top spot.

New York, which attracted an incredible 56m people from around the globe last year, was named the second favourite long haul city break destination amongst British travellers with 12% of the vote.

Travellers named the Thai capital of Bangkok as their third favourite long haul city break destination with 8%, whilst Sydney came in fourth with 6%.

Singapore completes the top five favourite city break destinations for British travellers, coming in fifth place with 5% of the vote.

In the favourite long haul beach category, Thailand and its beautiful islands was named the British favourite with 16% of the vote, followed in second place by the Indian Ocean destination of the Maldives with 15%.

Mauritius, a long-time favourite amongst newlyweds, was named the third most popular long haul beach destination with 14%, followed by Australia (9%) and Bali (6%).

Kuljinder Bahia, Managing Director of Away Holidays comments: “Dubai has become an incredibly popular destination for British holidaymakers over the past few years and the numbers of visitors is growing each year. Dubai is a wonderful destination with some of the world’s most luxurious hotels and offers fantastic shopping opportunities. Once only a destination for backpackers, Thailand is now a popular beach destination for all kinds of travellers and I believe will become even more popular over the coming years.” 
Top five long haul city break destinations
Favourite long haul city destinations

% of the vote

1.       Dubai

25%

2.       New York

12%

3.       Bangkok

8%

4.       Sydney

6%

5.       Singapore

5%



Top five long haul beach destinations
Favourite long haul beach destinations

% of the vote

1.       Thailand

16%

2.       Maldives

15%

3.       Mauritius

14%

4.       Australia

9%

5.       Bali

6%


CERTIFICATE ISO 9001: 2008 TO NOMIKOS SHIPPING INVESTMENTS LTD BY HELLENIC REGISTER OF SHIPPING SA


HELLENIC REGISTER OF SHIPPING SA after successful completion of the Quality System review process, awarded to SA NOMIKOS SHIPPING INVESTMENTS LTD the certificate of compliance according to the standard ISO 9001: 2008 with respect to the activity of management of bulk carriers.

NOMIKOS SHIPPING INVESTMENTS LTD is already since 2013 certified by HELLENIC REGISTER OF SHIPPING Environmental Management System according to the standard ISO 14001: 2004, confirming the company's commitment to constantly meet the quality and environmental requirements, through a structured and controlled way of corporate function.

The awarding was held on 13th of November 2015 at the company's offices in Piraeus, of Messrs D.Zafiriadis - Chairman & CEO and  N.Kormpis Commercial Manager of HELLENIC REGISTER OF SHIPPING S.A.

The certificate of compliance received by Ms. N.Gaki General Manager, and Mr. E.Tsoumpos DPA / HSQE Manager of SA NOMIKOS SHIPPING INVESTMENTS LTD.

HELLENIC REGISTER OF SHIPPING SA with continuous presence over twenty years in the Quality Certification sector for Systems and Services believing that the Greek shipping, which is the power engine of the Greek economy is the "industry" with the great need for standardization, to ensure reliability and competitiveness in a season distinguished by the continuous intensification of international regulations and requirements for for safety of life, zero tolerance of marine and air pollution, and unexpected pressures from external factors (prolonged international crisis, piracy, reduce transport demand.

ΟΛΠ Αύξηση 47% των κερδών προ φόρων στο 9μηνο του 2015


Τις οικονομικές καταστάσεις του 9μήνου ενέκρινε το Δ.Σ. του ΟΛΠ Α.Ε. στη σημερινή συνεδρίαση σύμφωνα με τις οποίες:
α.  Τα συνολικά έσοδα 9μήνου παρουσίασαν μικρή μείωση κατά 5,7% και ανήλθαν σε 75,4 εκ. Ευρώ έναντι 79,9 εκ. το 2014.
β.  Τα συνολικά λειτουργικά έξοδα της ίδιας περιόδου παρουσίασαν μείωση κατά 4,9% και ανήλθαν σε 69,8 εκ. Ευρώ έναντι 73,4 εκ. την αντίστοιχη περίοδο του 2014. Η μεταβολή οφείλεται κυρίως στη μείωση 4,4% των αμοιβών προσωπικού και των   δαπανών για συντήρηση – επισκευή, κατανάλωση ηλεκτρικής ενέργειας κλπ. 
γ.  Τα κέρδη προ φόρων αυξήθηκαν κατά 47,3% και ανήλθαν σε 15,3 εκ. Ευρώ έναντι 10,4 εκ. το 2014 ενώ μετά από τους φόρους αυξήθηκαν κατά 40,6% και ανήλθαν σε 12,1 εκ. Ευρώ.
δ.  Σημειώνεται ότι το γ’ τρίμηνο (01.09.2015) ο Οργανισμός εξόφλησε πλήρως τις υποχρεώσεις του από την εθελούσια έξοδο των υπαλλήλων του Ν. 3651/2008 στο ΙΚΑ ΕΤΑΜ και το ΕΤΕΑ, ύψους 14 εκ. Ευρώ και παρόλα αυτά, τα ταμειακά διαθέσιμα παραμένουν στα ίδια υψηλά επίπεδα των 48,  8 εκ. Ευρώ.
         Επιπλέον στα παραπάνω αποτελέσματα περιλαμβάνεται η πρόβλεψη για πλήρη απομείωση της συμμετοχής του ΟΛΠ Α.Ε. στις θυγατρικές του, ύψους 980 χιλ. Ευρώ μετά την απόφαση για διακοπή της λειτουργίας τους λόγω συσσωρευμένων ζημιών.
            Κατά την παρουσίαση των καταστάσεων ο Πρόεδρος & Δ/νων Σύμβουλος του ΟΛΠ Α.Ε. κ. Γ. Κούβαρης δήλωσε ότι: “παρά το δυσμενές οικονομικό περιβάλλον το οποίο επηρεάζει εμπόριο και μεταφορές ο Οργανισμός μειώνει τα έξοδά του, αυξάνει την κερδοφορία του και βελτιώνει συνολικά τα αποτελέσματά του”.   

ΠΙΣΤΟΠΟΙΗΤΙΚΟ ISO 9001:2008 στην Α.Ε NOMIKOS SHIPPING INVESTMENTS LTD ΑΠΟ ΤΗΝ ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΟΣ ΝΗΟΓΝΩΜΩΝ Α.Ε


Η ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΟΣ ΝΗΟΓΝΩΜΩΝ Α.Ε  έπειτα από επιτυχή ολοκλήρωση της διαδικασίας επιθεώρησης του Συστήματος Ποιότητας , απένειμε στην Α.Ε  NOMIKOS SHIPPING INVESTMENTS LTD πιστοποιητικό  συμμόρφωσης σύμφωνα με το πρότυπο  ISO 9001:2008 αναφορικά με τη δραστηριότητα της διαχείρισης  πλοίων μεταφοράς  χύδην φορτίων .

Η Α.Ε  NOMIKOS SHIPPING INVESTMENTS LTD διατηρεί ήδη από το 2013 πιστοποιημένο από τον ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΟ ΝΗΟΓΝΩΜΟΝΑ  σύστημα  Περιβαλλοντικής  Διαχείρισης σύμφωνα με το πρότυπο ISO 14001:2004, επιβεβαιώνοντας τη δέσμευση της εταιρείας για διαρκή ικανοποίηση των ποιοτικών και περιβαλλοντικών απαιτήσεων, μέσα από ένα δομημένο και ελεγχόμενο τρόπο εταιρικής λειτουργίας.

Η απονομή πραγματοποιήθηκε στις 13 Νοεμβρίου 2015 στα γραφεία της εταιρείας στον Πειραιά, από τους κ.κ  Δ.Ζαφειριάδη   Chairman & CEO και  Ν.Κόρμπη  Commercial Manager της ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΟΣ ΝΗΟΓΝΩΜΩΝ Α.Ε.
Το πιστοποιητικό συμμόρφωσης παρέλαβαν  η κα. Ν.Γάκη General  Manager , και ο κ.Ε. Τσουμπός  DPA/HSQE  Manager της   Α.Ε  NOMIKOS SHIPPING INVESTMENTS LTD.


Η  ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΟΣ ΝΗΟΓΝΩΜΩΝ Α.Ε  με συνεχή παρουσία άνω των είκοσι ετών στο χώρο των Πιστοποιήσεων Συστημάτων Διαχείρισης και Προϊόντων πιστεύει  ότι η ελληνική  ναυτιλία, που αποτελεί την ατμομηχανή της ελληνικής οικονομίας, είναι η «βιομηχανία» με τη μεγάλη ανάγκη προτυποποίησης, έτσι ώστε να διασφαλίζεται η αξιοπιστία και η ανταγωνιστικότητά της  σε μια εποχή που διακρίνεται από τη  συνεχή εντατικοποίηση των διεθνών κανονισμών και απαιτήσεων για ασφάλεια της ανθρώπινης ζωής , τη  μηδενική ανοχή στη ρύπανση των θαλασσών και της ατμόσφαιρας, και τις απρόβλεπτες πιέσεις   που ασκούν εξωτερικοί παράγοντες (παρατεταμένη διεθνής κρίση, πειρατεία, μείωση ζήτησης μεταφορών). 

Κυριακή 29 Νοεμβρίου 2015

Study reveals how a small tax can set tourism carbon-free

According to a new study, carbon dioxide emissions’ effects from tourism could be eliminated for a US$11 tax that travelers should pay. Worldwide, the travel industry (transport, accommodation, tourists’ leisure activities) annually contributes to 5 percent of total human-made emissions of carbon dioxide.

The new study focused on finding solutions to diminish the recent alarming figures and cost effective strategies for the tourism industry to meet strategic energy saving and renewable energy initiatives the UN recommended.



According to a the latest study published in the Journal of Sustainable Tourism, dangerous carbon dioxide emissions could be eliminated if travelers would pay a US$11 tax per trip.


The study, led by Professor Scott at the University of Waterloo , encourages buying carbon offsets from other parts of the global economy where emission reductions can be attained for less money. Here are the Professor’s statements:
“A dangerously warming world is not in the best interest of global tourism. Many of peoples’ favorite tourism destinations and activities are at risk to climate change, from the ski industry to tropical beaches, from iconic species to cultural heritage. So investing in low-carbon tourism is really in the interests of both the tourism industry and travelers alike.

“We have to ask ourselves, are we willing to pay less than the price of an extra checked bag to ensure future generations can marvel at the sights that inspire us today?


“The tourism sector has pledged to reduce its CO2 emissions 50 per cent by 2035. Our study demonstrates this is achievable, but will require determined action and significant investment — starting at just under US$1 billion annually 2020s.

“Divided equally among all domestic and international trips that’s about a US$11 cost per trip — basically the same price as many modest travel fees and taxes.”


The long-term investment required to meet the reducing carbon dioxide emissions goal may be vital for the economies of many countries, as tourism represents the largest spending sector in the world and also a necessary and responsible “taking action” on climate change.

“Tourism is how billions of people explore new places and experience new cultures and the natural wonders of this world every year.

“Tourism can be a force for immense good, but it needs to be done within the carbon limits being negotiated by world leaders at the UN climate summit in Paris or else it will be regulated to do so.


“It is not peak oil that is a risk to future tourism development, but peak carbon. Our analysis shows that the tourism sector can be compatible with a decarbonized global economy, if governments and business leaders show collective leadership to make it happen”, Professor Scott concludes.