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).

Τρίτη 31 Ιουλίου 2018

IATA, CFM International Sign Pro-Competitive Agreement on Engine Maintenance





Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για IATA, CFM International Sign Pro-Competitive Agreement on Engine Maintenance


Geneva - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that it has entered into an agreement with CFM International (CFM) that will lead to increased competition in the market for maintenance, repair and overhaul services (MRO) on engines manufactured by CFM, a 50/50 partnership between GE and Safran Aircraft Engines.

"Airlines spend a tremendous amount of money on the maintenance and repair of aircraft and engines to ensure we are always operating to the highest levels of safety and reliability. This milestone agreement with CFM will lead to increased competition among the providers of parts and services related to the servicing of CFM engines. We expect increased competition will reduce airline operating costs and help to keep flying affordable. And we hope that this agreement will be an example for other manufacturers to follow," said Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s Director General and CEO.

Under the agreement, CFM has adopted a set of "Conduct Policies" that will enhance the opportunities available to third-party providers of engine parts and MRO services on the CFM56 and the new LEAP series engines. Among the many elements of the agreement, CFM has agreed to:
  • License its Engine Shop Manual to an MRO facility even if it uses non-CFM parts
  • Permit the use of non-CFM parts or repairs by any licensee of the CFM Engine Shop Manual
  • Honor warranty coverage of the CFM components and repairs on a CFM engine even when the engine contains non-CFM parts or repairs
  • Grant airlines and third-party overhaul facilities the right to use the CFM Engine Shop Manual for without a fee
  • Sell CFM parts and perform all parts repairs even when non-CFM parts or repairs are present in the engine
The agreement includes specific provisions ensuring the implementation of CFM’s commitments with regard to CFM56 series engines which power some 13,400 single-aisle aircraft flying today. CFM has, however, committed to apply the agreement to all commercial engines produced by the company, including engines in its new LEAP Series. GE, moreover, has agreed to apply the Conduct Policies to other commercial aircraft engines that it produces in its own right.
Beneficiaries of the agreement include IATA, CFM’s airline customers, aircraft lessors, third-party MRO facilities and parts manufacturers.
Based on the agreement, IATA has withdrawn a formal complaint it filed with the Competition Directorate of the European Commission in March 2016. 

Tags: IATA

Carnival Cruise Line Announces Major Dry Dock Makeover for Carnival Triumph, Leading to Renaming as Carnival Sunrise





Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Carnival Cruise Line Announces Major Dry Dock Makeover for Carnival Triumph, Leading to Renaming as Carnival Sunrise



MIAMI, July 31, 2018 – Carnival Cruise Line today revealed plans for a nearly $200 million bow-to-stern makeover for Carnival Triumph in the spring of 2019 that will include renaming the ship to reflect its significant transformation.  The ship will join Carnival’s Sunshine class and will be named Carnival Sunrise after a two-month-long refurbishment that will take place in Cadiz, Spain, starting March 1. The dry dock makeover will add all of Carnival’s wildly popular branded food, beverage and entertainment innovations, as well as update all staterooms in a broad spectrum of new accommodations providing guests fresh and exciting seagoing vacation choices.
Following a renaming ceremony, Carnival Sunrise will re-enter service with a series of five- to seven-day voyages from Norfolk, Va., beginning April 29, 2019, a summer schedule of four- to 14-day departures from New York commencing May 23, 2019, then move to Fort Lauderdale in October. 
 “The introduction of Carnival Sunrise will provide our guests with an array of exciting dining, bar and entertainment choices. The new Carnival Sunrise is part of our multi-billion-dollar ship enhancement program that is transforming our fleet on an unprecedented scale,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.
Carnival Sunrise enhancements include the redesign of two luxurious Captain’s Suites adjacent to the navigational bridge offering floor-to-ceiling windows and extended balcony grand suites.  All of the ship’s staterooms will be updated to offer island-inspired interiors with bright colors and soothing pastels inspired by the line’s Caribbean itineraries.  Other new features will include:

Food Glorious Food!
  • Cucina del Capitano: offering delicious Italian favorites and new Carnival classics served family-style in an engaging atmosphere reminiscent of a cozy Italian home.

  • JavaBlue Café: this expanded version of the line’s popular coffee bars will offer lattes, cappuccinos and other caffeinated favorites, as well as “spiked” coffees made with liqueurs, and decadent confections.

  • Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse: a classic American steakhouse offering mouth-watering steaks, gourmet appetizers, entrees and dessertswith impeccable service and understated ambiance. 

  • Bonsai Express: the success of the full-service Bonsai Sushi restaurants has spawned this casual spot, featuring a mouth-watering array of sushi, sashimi, rolls and more.

  • The Chef’s Table: a new multi-course dining experience hosted in a special glass-enclosed venue in the forward dining room.

  • Cherry on Top: The “sweetest spot on board,” an expanded Cherry on Top features bulk candy, fanciful gifts, custom apparel and a Carnival Adventures shop.

  • Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse: a casual open-air eatery featuring “real deal” BBQ favorites created by Food Network star Guy Fieri.

  • Lido Marketplace: A casual poolside eatery boasting favorites like Seafood Shack offering lobster rolls and other New England-inspired fare; The Deli with sandwiches and paninis; Pizzeria del Capitano serving hand-tossed artisanal-style pies free of charge 24/7, and an expanded Swirls venue with complimentary ice cream and frozen yogurt.

Raising the Bar
  • RedFrog Pub: Featuring the Caribbean’s best rums and beers – including Carnival’s own ThirstyFrog Red – enjoyed in a distinct British-West-Indies-meets-Key-West atmosphere.
  • Piano Bar 88: A new twist on Carnival’s popular piano bar concept that amps up the excitement with themed nights, engaging new décor and spontaneous sing-along fun.

  • Limelight Lounge: Home to the Punchliner Comedy Club featuring a hilarious line-up of comics which later transforms into a sizzling night club where guests can dance the night away.

  • New Multi-Purpose Liquid Lounge: an expansive theater that’s home to captivating daytime and nighttime entertainment, including the line’s high-tech Playlist Productions revues and audience participation favorite Hasbro, The Game Show.

Open-Air Fun and Relaxation
  • SportSquare: A suspended ropes course offering heart-racing views to the sea 150 feet below, basketball court, jogging track, ping pong, foosball, pool tables, and a nine-hole miniature golf course highlight this open-area recreation complex.

  • WaterWorks: Featuring a 203-foot-long AquaTunnel slide and Carnival’s signature 212-foot-long Twister slide along with a 75-gallon PowerDrencher tipping bucket and kiddie area.

  • Serenity Adult Only Retreat: An adult only oasis offering plush chaise lounges, whirlpools and oversized umbrellas, enhanced by dramatic sea views.

Expanded Cloud 9 Spa and More
  • Cloud 9 Spa:  Designed as the ultimate refuge for rest and relaxation, the health and wellness center offers an elaborate thermal suite, private treatment rooms, and the latest cardio and weight-training equipment.

  • Modern, Spacious Facilities for Kids and Teens: including a new Camp Ocean, a colorful marine-inspired play area designed for kids ages 2-11, along with new spaces for Circle “C” aimed at 12- to 14-year olds and Club O2 geared to those 15-17. 

  • The Warehouse:  promising fun for all ages with a variety of the latest video and arcade games.

  • Expanded Retail Spaces:  a mall-style shopping area lined with retail outlets offering fine jewelry, watches, fragrances, and more along with the line’s own branded spaces like Hip Fish and The Carnival Store.

“These new dining spaces and features complement many of Carnival’s signature food and beverage outlets that were added during previous renovations, including Guy’s Burger Joint developed in tandem with Guy Fieri,” said Gus Antorcha, Carnival’s chief operating officer, who has led the reimagination of Carnival Sunrise and many other ships in the fleet.  “Carnival’s investments are part of an overall plan that is raising the bar on ship amenities and features, itineraries and offshore excursions that our guests are loving.” 
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Carnival Sunrise’s Inaugural Season from Norfolk, New York and Fort Lauderdale
Carnival Sunrise’s inaugural schedule from Norfolk kicks off with a seven-day cruise departing the Half Moone Cruise Center visiting Grand Turk, the private island of Half Moon Cay and Freeport departing April 29, 2019.   A pair of five-day voyages departs May 12 and 17, 2019 calling at Nassau and Freeport and three six-day cruises departing May 6, and Oct. 14 and 20, 2019, visiting Half Moon Cay, Nassau and Freeport.  
The ship will then reposition to New York for a series of four- to 14-day voyages beginning May 23, 2019. The program includes four- to eight-day Bermuda cruises, including long weekend sailings to the island departing Thursdays and returning Mondays, along with seven-day fall foliage cruises to New England and the Canadian Maritimes, and two different eight-day Caribbean itineraries with stops at the region’s top destinations.  Several longer voyages will also be offered, including a 10-day exotic eastern Caribbean itinerary and a 14-day Carnival Journeys Panama Canal cruise highlighted by local dining and entertainment experiences and unique shipboard enrichment activities. 
Carnival Sunrise will then reposition to Fort Lauderdale for four- and five-day cruises beginning Oct. 28, 2019.  Four-day long weekend cruises will call at tropical ports like Half Moon Cay, Princess Cays, Grand Turk and Nassau, while five-day cruises will visit Cuba, as well as seaside destinations in The Bahamas, Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Grand Turk.
Carnival Sunrise’s departures from Norfolk, New York and Fort Lauderdale are currently open for reservations.  To learn more about Carnival Cruise Line or to make a reservation, visit Carnival.com.

Brits distracted by holiday planning while at work





Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Brits distracted by holiday planning while at work



Brits and especially British men are more likely to get holiday distraction while at work, according to a new research. London is the UK region that’s most distracted by potential holidays, losing 39 minutes every week.
According to the new study from personal finance comparison site finder.com, over half (58 percent) of British employees plan their holidays during work hours every week.
The average employee spends 29 minutes planning getaways every week, meaning they waste more than three working days a year holiday shopping. Over a million Brits spend more than three hours a week planning potential trips.
On a national scale, this is costing UK businesses £180 million in wages per week or £9.3 billion annually, with 125 million working days lost on holiday planning.
Millennials are the most guilty when it comes to researching trips at work, with almost three in four (74 percent) doing so every week. In contrast, only four in 10 (40 percent) baby boomers and over half of Gen X workers (57 percent) get side-tracked.
When it comes to gender, male employees are more likely to get holiday distraction - 63 percent regularly check out potential trips compared to 52 percent of females. Men also spend 33 minutes browsing every week as opposed to 26 minutes for women, on average.
Interestingly, while Australians are generally blessed with an enviable climate compared with the UK’s, additional research from finder.com found that Aussies are more likely to plan holidays at work (64 percent versus 58 percent) and spend almost as twice as long (57 minutes in total) doing so.
London is the UK region that’s most distracted by potential holidays, losing 39 minutes every week. This is followed by 34 minutes in the West Midlands, while East Anglians lose the smallest amount of time at just 21 minutes per week. Scottish workers are the least likely to be distracted by holiday planning with almost half (46 percent) never browsing in the office.
To see an interactive map of who spends the most and least time researching holidays at work, plus advice on how to plan holidays efficiently, visit: www.finder.com/uk/holiday-planning-work-hours.
Jon Ostler, UK CEO at finder.com, said: ‘‘It’s not surprising that Brits are distracted by holiday planning while at work, especially during the current heatwave. We’re also bombarded with beautiful holiday Instagram posts every day, which doesn’t help. No one wants to spend ages planning a holiday though; not to mention your employer. If you want the process to be more hassle-free, then there are simple steps you can take to get the best deal for the perfect holiday.”

LGBTQ Travel in Europe – Handbook






Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για LGBTQ Travel in Europe – Handbook

A new handbook has been published for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer travelers planning a trip to Europe. The handbook is published by the European Travel Commission (ETC), in collaboration with the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association Foundation (IGLTAF).
The aim of the Handbook on the LGBTQ Travel Segment, authored by Peter Jordan of Gen C Traveller, is to help European destinations to understand the potential of the LGBTQ travel market and how European NTOs can provide a more welcoming environment for LGBTQ travelers from all around the world, in order to improve Europe’s overall competitiveness as a destination.
lesbian holidays
First-hand consumer research for the Handbook was facilitated by Hornet Networks through an online survey of LGBTQ consumers in five long-haul markets: Brazil, China, Japan, Russia and the United States. Additionally, the Handbook includes insights from 16 experts who gave their perspective on the cultural factors that shape demand for travel among LGBTQ consumers.
Research results found that overall Europe has a strong competitive position, being viewed widely by LGBTQ consumers in its major long-haul markets as “the most liberal, socially progressive destination”, however, weaknesses prevail as some parts of Europe are perceived to offer a less safe environment for their own LGBTQ citizens, and by extension, travellers.
LGBTQ travellers in Europe’s long-haul markets have a high affinity with Europe and a strong desire to visit in the near future. 80% of survey respondents expected to visit Europe in the next three years, with 92% of those who had visited before expecting to make a repeat visit.
LGBTQ travellers to Europe are highly sensitive to how local LGBTQ people are accepted in society. Most of all, they value an open-minded and forward-thinking culture, as well as a history of acceptance, and local laws allowing same-sex marriage or civil partnerships. LGBTQ events and nightlife are also major attractions, especially for travellers from Russia or China where these are less prevalent.
LGBTQ events and festivals are high on travellers’ wish lists when visiting Europe, as well as the opportunity to discover the nightlife. However, the research highlights that a significant number of travellers are looking for a more cultural experience, such as visiting specific sites and monuments, socialising with local people and enjoying luxury experiences. In destination marketing, LGBTQ consumers value authenticity in the marketing message and images, and consistency between the marketing promise and in-destination experience.
The Handbook is free of charge, and can be downloaded through the websites of the European Travel Commission and the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association. With 75 pages of analysis, forecasts and consumer insights, the Handbook is expected to be a valuable resource to those seeking to understand the dynamics of the LGBTQ travel segment today. A 41-page supplement that includes case studies on LGBTQ destination marketing and transcripts from the expert interviews is available upon request.

Tags: IGLTAF

Captain Cook Cruises Fiji Reduces Plastics!!!



Captain Cook Cruises Fiji Oceans Ambassador Program


After successfully launching their Ocean Ambassador Program in 2017, Captain Cook Cruises Fiji is continuing its environmental friendly policies by eliminating as much single use plastic items onboard small ship MV Reef Endeavour and on Tivua Island.
Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Captain Cook Cruises Fiji Reduces Plastics!!!.
Plastic drinking straws will no longer be available onboard, with an optional recyclable paper straw available for those particularly elaborate cocktails and plastic cups will be replaced with reusable cups. The company will also recycle all Vai Wai water bottles back to the supplier.
Captain Cook Cruises Fiji’s Managing Director, Jackie Charlton, said the decision to reduce plastics use was an easy one to make after realising they could do even more for the environment by minimizing plastics onboard.
“Plastic pollution is a real threat to our oceans and after the success of our Ocean Ambassador Program, we wanted to lead the way environmentally onboard, just like we were doing onshore and remove all plastic straws and cups from the Reef Endeavour.” Says Jackie.
In November 2017 Captain Cook Cruises Fiji launched a new environmental and sustainability initiative, the Ocean Ambassador Program. This program is aimed at removing rubbish pollution in remote Fiji with a focus on plastic and looking after and sustaining the Fijian environment.
The initiative focuses on cleaning up waste from the remote beaches and villages visited on Captain Cook Cruises three, four, seven and eleven-night cruises, and at the same time educating villagers, crew and passengers collecting valuable data about the types of waste found in the Fiji Islands.
Since the program started, crew and passengers have collected on average 70-120kg of rubbish per week from the beaches they have visited.
Captain Cook Cruises Fiji operate a range of accommodated, day and dining cruises including three, four, seven and eleven-night cruises around the Mamanuca, Yasawa and remote Northern Islands of Fiji, a day tour to their privately owned Tivua Island and nightly dinner cruises departing from Port Denarau.
For further information and bookings visit www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com 

Swiss International to open an upscale hotel in Nepal




Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Swiss International Hotel Sarowar in Pokhara.



Swiss International announced its first hotel in Nepal, Swiss International Hotel Sarowar in Pokhara. The hotel which already welcoming guests, will officially open in September 2018.
Following a management agreement with Hotel Sarowar PVT.LTD, Swiss International to operate the Hotel Sarowar in Pokhara, Nepal as ‘Swiss International Hotel Sarowar’.
Swiss International Hotel Sarowar is the initiative of two brothers- Prof. Dr. Bharat Pahari, an Engineer having experience of more than 35years in teaching and engineering and Dr. Mohan Pahari, a medical doctor with more than 20 years’ experience. Hospitality is not new to Pahari family. Hotel Sarowar began its journey in the early 70's as a family owned small guest house in the lakeside, Pokhara.
Swiss International Hotel Sarowar is today a completely newly built hotel, built as a climate responsive building and is unique of its type. It is the only property in town designed and developed with eco-friendly and sustainable practice. The hotel will use solar energy as the primary source for its electrical load. To further complement the much-valued Swiss International’s sustainability, the hotel will be recycling organic waste used by the hotel and will make use of geo-thermal heating and cooling for two floors of the hotel.
Mr. Henri Kennedie, President of Swiss International commented:” Working together with the Pahari’s has been more than a joy. The technical sustainable aspects of the hotel are very impressive. That combined with our introduction of Swiss hospitality, will create a unique experience in beautiful Pokhara”.
Swiss International Hotel Sarowar is located just steps away from the historic main street, Lakeside, which is city’s most famous and vibrant entertainment, shopping, dining and outdoor attractions hub.
The hotel’s facilities include:
  • 96 upscale and comfortable rooms and suites
  • Eventives, for Meetings and Events of 10,000 square feet is the largest capacity of up to 700 guests
  • Swiss Café, Restaurant & Lounge, an all-day dining restaurant on the ground floor.
  • Noodles & Rice, an all Asian restaurant
  • Ted & Co, Bar & Lounge
  • An Inspirations Pool Bar and Grill
  • A spacious rooftop lounge bar in Lakeside (tallest space in the vicinity) with the capacity of 150 guests, where guest can enjoy small bites and a wide variety of domestic and imported cocktails, beers, and wines while enjoying the stunning views of the city, the famous Pewa lake and the surrounding Himalaya mountain range.
  • A full service world-class professional spa, yoga & fitness center operated by the largest chain of spas and founder of the first School of spa and beauty therapy in Nepal (Tranquility Spa)
  • An outdoor temperature-controlled swimming pool and Jacuzzi.
  • Free Parking Facilities

Global travel and tourism industry set to dispense with human-only translations within 6 to 12 months





Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Global travel and tourism industry


WASHINGTON - The global travel and tourism industry is expected to be the first sector to dispense with human-only translations, according to Ofer Shoshan, CEO of One Hour Translation (OHT), the world's largest online translation agency and a leader in Hybrid translations. OHT was the first to offer business customers Hybrid translation services, comprising of Neural Machine Translation (NMT) and human post-editing and quality assurance.
"Within 6 to 12 months most of the travel and tourism industry, starting with the high-volume travel websites, will stop using traditional human-only translation services," predicts Shoshan.
Results from the One Hour Translation's "ONEs - OHT NMT Evaluation Score", a quarterly evaluation of NMT systems, show that the average machine translation quality score of typical travel and tourism material is above 90%.
The Q3 2018 ONEs shows that Neural Machine Translation of travel and tourism material from English to some of the most common target languages, namely French, Spanish, and German, produce high quality results. German scored highest at 5.78 on OHT's 6-point scale using DeepL, French followed with 5.48/6 using DeepL, Spanish with scoring 5.39/6 using Google Translate.
With above 90% translation quality score (ONEs) in the travel and tourism sector, the need for human post editors is reduced to a minimum. In effect, only minor fixes are required to bring the texts to 'human level' quality. Quality assurance after post-editing is done, also does not require a lot of work.
OHT is a major player in translations for the global travel and tourism industry, where the use of Hybrid translation has led to faster and cheaper translation, while maintaining high translation quality. One of the major sites that is known to have switched entirely to NMT technology is Booking.com, which uses "home-trained" NMT along with human post editors. "It is evident from close analysis of the results of our recent NMT evaluation score (ONEs), that the similarity between websites in the travel and tourism industry will accelerate the shift to Hybrid translation, i.e. NMT+ human post editing and human quality control, in that industry," says Shoshan.
One Hour Translation is at the forefront of the NMT-related changes, offering the first business-oriented Hybrid translation service on a large scale. To provide customers with the best product, OHT has partnered with the biggest NMT engine providers: Amazon Translate, Google Translate, DeepL, Bing Translator and other commercially available NMT engines.
OHT's ONEs will continue to measure and publish NMT engines performance in different fields and languages on a regular quarterly basis.

India sees 1.6 lakhs cruise tourists in 2017-2018 tourism year






Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για India sees  cruise tourists

There are more than 1.6 lakh people visited India for cruise tourism in 2017-2018.

The Tourism Minister K J Alphons told to the Indian Parliament, that the demand for cruise tourism is rising in a big way.

In a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha, Tourism Minister K J Alphons said a task force on cruise tourism was jointly formed by the Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Shipping with representatives of all the major ports and stakeholders for coordinated efforts to create an enabling ecosystem for the development of cruise tourism in India. The task force meets regularly and the last meeting was held on May 21, he added.
Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για India sees 1.6 lakhs cruise tourists in 2017-2018 tourism year

The Tourism Minister also said that during 2017-18 tourism year, a total of 1,62,660 cruise passengers visited India at six major ports namely Mumbai Port, Chennai Port, Cochin Port, Kolkata Port, New Mangalore Port and Mormugao Port.

The Indian Ministry of Tourism had also sanctioned projects worth Rs 106.39 crore for the development of cruise terminal-related infrastructure at the major ports of Goa, Maharashtra, Kerala and Tamil Nadu under the scheme for “Assistance to Central Agencies for Tourism Infrastructure Development”, Alphons said.


Tags: 

Samoa gets ready for the annual Teuila Festival






Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Samoa gets ready for the annual Teuila Festival


Since it was established in 1991, Samoa's Teuila Festival has grown to become one of Samoa's most celebrated annual events and one of the South Pacific's biggest cultural festivals.
Join the festivities as Samoa becomes the cultural hub of the South Pacific and celebrates all things Samoan during the Teuila Festival! A true celebration of Samoan and Polynesian culture, this festival is an annual event now in its 28th year, with many activities and shows being held across the country, particularly in Apia, Samoa’s capital city.
The festival is named after the bright red teuila flower, the national flower of Samoa and is frequently seen around the islands. This year’s festival will be running from 2nd to 8th September. Visitors will experience Samoan dance, arts, gastronomy and even traditional tattooing.
Every year thousands pour into the capital to witness the extravanganza that is the Opening Ceremony, held this year on 2nd September. The opening is a proud display of Samoan culture with a floral parade, the Siva Afi fire knife dancers and native music setting the scene for a further five days of festival fun. Another spectacular display is the Chief’s Fiafia show, where iconic dances and entertainment represent the cultural heritage of different South Pacific Islands.
Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Samoa gets ready for the annual Teuila Festival
The festival has much in store for those who like to dabble in the creative side of things, with arts and crafts fairs providing the opportunity to partake in traditional weaving lessons, wood carving and cocktail competitions, which take place every day at the Samoa Cultural Village. Visitors can also see the long-established art of tattooing the Samoan way, a skill that has been passed down from generation to generation to create distinctive warrior-like designs. Food lovers will find their calling among the many food stalls serving up Samoa’s local specialities and a traditional Umu demonstration on the Wednesday will see food served from an underground oven to feed the crowds.
There are many other activities and events taking place throughout the week including the Police Band Flag Raising Parade, the Best of Samoa show, Miss Samoa Pageant and the Teuila Movie in the Plaza. A s the festival draws to a close, visitors are encouraged to come to the official prize giving ceremony to honour all those who have participated over the week. For more information on Samoa and the Teuila Festival, visit www.samoa.travel.

Air Transport Research Society and Embry-Riddle announce winners of Global Airport Performance Rankings







Hartsfield-Jackson_Atlanta_International_Airport_(7039222923)



DAYTONA BEACH, FLA. – The Air Transport Research Society (ATRS) and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University have released the key results of the ATRS 2018 Global Airport Performance Benchmarking Task Force reportat their World Conference in Seoul, South Korea. The benchmark project is hosted at the College of Business at Embry-Riddle in Daytona Beach, Fla. (USA).
This annual report provides a comprehensive, unbiased comparison of airport performance worldwide, focusing on productivity and operating/management efficiency, unit cost competitiveness and comparison of airport charges.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is once again named as the most efficient airport in the World in 2018, marking the 15th-year for ATL as the recipient of Efficiency Excellence Award by ATRS), a worldwide research network headquartered in the Robert H. Smith School of Business, at the University of Maryland. ATL is also the busiest airport in the world with over 104 million passengers per year (2016).
“The Air Transport industry has become increasingly competitive. Airports have to be efficient and innovative in order to compete for airlines, passengers and cargo shippers,” said Benchmarking Task Force Project Manager Dr. Chunyan Yu, Professor of Air Transport Management in Embry–Riddle’s College of Business at the Daytona Beach Campus. “The ATRS Airport Benchmarking project strives to provide comprehensive and unbiased information on the best practices in the industry to help advance the overall performance of airports worldwide.”
The 2018 report includes 205 airports and 24 airport groups of various sizes and ownership forms in the Asia Pacific, Europe and North America regions. It also examines the relationships between various performance measures and airport characteristics as well as management strategies to provide a better understanding of observed differences in airport performance. Service Quality is not considered in the performance measurements.
Other top performers in North America include Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP, 25-50 million passengers per year), Vancouver International Airport (YVR, 15-25 million passengers) and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU, 5-15 million passengers).
In the Asia Pacific region, Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) placed first in the over 40 million passengers per year category. A.B. Won Pat International Airport, Guam (GUM) is ranked as most efficient airport among those below 10 million passengers. Jeju International Airport (CJU, 25-40 million passengers) and Gimhae International Airport (PUS, 10-25 million passengers) also won the top efficiency awards. Sydney Airport (SYD) is the top efficiency airport in Oceania, its eighth win in a row.
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is rated first among airports with over 40 million passengers. Other winners include Copenhagen Airport (CPH, 25-40 million passengers), Athens International Airport (ATH, 15-25 million passengers) and EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (BSL, 5-15 million passengers).
The ATRS Annual Global Airport Performance Benchmarking Project was initiated in 2000 and is currently hosted at Embry-Riddle’s College of Business in Daytona Beach, Florida. Students in the College of Business collect and compile data, conduct analysis and generate the annual report under the supervision of Benchmarking Task Force Project Manager Dr. Chunyan Yu, Professor of Air Transport Management.

Universal’s Aventura Hotel opens in Orlando






Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Universal’s Aventura Hotel opens in Orlando


Officially opening August 16, 2018, Universal’s Aventura Hotel will be Universal Orlando’s sixth hotel that features 600 rooms, including 13 kids’ suites.
Universal’s Aventura Hotel will be just steps away from all three Universal Orlando theme parks – Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal’s Volcano Bay.
There will be walking paths and shuttle access to all of the entertainment and dining options throughout Universal Orlando Resort, including Universal CityWalk.
Guests who stay at Universal’s Aventura Hotel will receive exclusive benefits including Early Park Admission to Universal’s theme parks, complimentary resort-wide transportation and charging privileges with a room key and more.
All rooms include a 43-inch flat-screen TV. A small refrigerator and coffee maker are also available. Complimentary toiletries and a hairdryer are included, as well. Certain rooms feature a seating area. A resort-style pool with a hot tub and kids' splash area is available for guests to enjoy.
universal aventura hotel
Universal’s Aventura Hotel will feature Universal Orlando’s first-ever rooftop bar & grill, Bar 17 Bistro. Guests will be able to enjoy cocktails and small plates inspired by global cuisine, while taking in stunning views of all three Universal Orlando theme parks and the Orlando skyline.
Universal’s Aventura Hotel will introduce something new and different to Orlando’s theme park food scene. Urban Pantry will be Aventura Hotel’s modern food hall. Here guests will enjoy diverse flavors, fresh ingredients and globally inspired dishes.
The Aventura also includes an onsite Starbucks®.
Universal’s Aventura Hotel will offer tech-savvy accommodations, including in-room tablets that allow guests to order pizza to their rooms in addition to controlling many of the rooms’ features like the TV and room temperature controls. The hotel will also include a virtual reality game room. The hotel offers complimentary WiFi.


Bahia Principe’s Fantasia brand welcomes travelers in Punta Cana and soon, Tenerife





Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Bahia Principe Fantasia brand welcomes travelers in Punta Cana and soon, Tenerife





MIAMI, FLA. – Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts is preparing to debut the brand’s newest property, Fantasia Bahia Principe Tenerife, in Spain this November. Nearly two years after the opening of the widely successful Luxury Bahia Principe Fantasia in Punta Cana, with endless amenities for travelers seeking an unforgettable family vacation, the new Tenerife property will be the second Fantasia-class hotel offering a whimsical setting and range of accommodations, activities and dining options that cater to guests of all ages.
Fantasia Bahia Principe, a family-friendly concept that offers thematic hotels, is one of Bahia Principe’s four hotel categories following the hotel chain’s recent portfolio rebranding which reorganized each resort into distinct categories and segmented experiences. Inspired by the success of Luxury Bahia Principe Fantasia, which will rebrand as Fantasia Bahia Principe Punta Cana in November, Fantasia Bahia Principe Tenerife will guarantee an enchanting vacation experience with the highest standards in quality and service geared towards families searching for a luxurious escape.
“At Bahia Principe, we take pride in providing unique experiences for family members of every age, interest and background,” said Lluisa Salord, senior vice president of global sales, contracting and distribution, Grupo Piñero. “As a family-owned and operated company, we understand the value of family bonding and the importance of providing vacation settings for loved ones to come together. The response to our Fantasia concept in Punta Cana has been truly overwhelming, and now we are thrilled to expand the experience to Tenerife, further solidifying our positioning as an all-inclusive innovator in the market.”
Situated on Tenerife’s Costa San Miguel, Fantasia Bahia Principe Tenerife is set to become one of the region’s most upscale – and largest – properties. With over 370 rooms, four restaurants and six bars, the all-inclusive hotel will set the standard in comprehensive, multi-generational vacations. Excellent cuisine and daily entertainment will round out an experience that will accommodate all guests – ranging from toddlers to grandparents. Personalized concierge service specializing in family travel is available upon request and the property will offer complimentary wi-fi throughout the hotel.
Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Bahia Principe Fantasia brand welcomes travelers in Punta Cana and soon, Tenerife
Also in November of this year, the rebranded Fantasia Bahia Principe Punta Cana will update its logo to reflect the new Fantasia Bahia Principe hotel category and will revamp its value-driven offering. Fantasia guests will have exclusive access to the hotel’s restaurants and amenities and will also be able to access the common areas of Grand Bahia Principe hotels within the resort complex. A massive fairytale castle is the center point of the property, home to spectacular nightly light shows including a video mapping story that relates to the destination, its nature and history.
With two expansive swimming pools, splash-filled waterparks, children’s clubs and a kids-only Bahia Spa where they can enjoy treatments including massages and princess manicures, Fantasia is a paradisiacal hang out for children. The teens club, known as “The LOFT”, is equipped with a gym, movie theater, dance floor with DJ, video consoles and a billiard table.
All these features and more will be included when Fantasia Bahia Principe Tenerife debuts later this year. Previous guests of the Punta Cana hotel will immediately recognize the eye-catching castles, wholesome experience and the brand’s commitment to providing an all-inclusive vacation that places their needs above all else.

“Amtrak Across America” Flash Sale Offers Customers Up to 30 Percent Savings





Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για “Amtrak Across America” Flash Sale Offers Customers Up to 30 Percent Savings


Amtrak is announcing its new summer sale, “Amtrak Across America” to help customers visit many destinations across the country for up to 30 percent off a standard fare. This special fare is available on Amtrak.com from Tuesday, July 31 through Friday, August 3 and valid for travel from Wednesday, August 15, 2018 to Thursday, February 28, 2019.

The sale offers great opportunities to see the country on many trains, including following the City of New Orleans down the Mississippi from Chicago to The Big Easy, riding the Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle through America’s great northern plains, or traveling on more regional trains, such as Downeaster, with access to exciting New England destinations all year long and Missouri River Runner, providing service to many charming communities filled with rich history and unique attractions in Missouri. Other trains included in the sale are the Auto Train, California Zephyr, Capitol Limited, Cardinal, Carolinian/Piedmont, Lake Shore Limited, Silver Service/Palmetto, and Vermonter.

Sample destinations and fares include:

Pairing CitiesTrainPricePairing CitiesTrainPrice
Chicago – St. LouisLincoln Service$13Seattle – SacramentoCoast Starlight$69
Seattle – VancouverAmtrak Cascades$29Chicago – DenverSouthwest Chief$79
Washington – PittsburghCapitol Limited$37Los Angeles – DallasTexas Eagle$79
Los Angeles – OaklandCoast Starlight$39Washington – AtlantaCrescent$88

Customers can sit in comfort, instead of traffic, with large spacious seats, no middle seats, ample legroom, the freedom to move around, and Wi-Fi on many train services.

One child, age 2-12, may accompany each adult at half the regular adult fee. Other terms and conditions apply.

Fiji International is all geared up to welcome Japan




Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Fiji International




Masahiro Kawamura of Japan will headline a powerful contingent of Japanese Golf Tour players developed to contest the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways from August 2-5 at Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course.
Making the most of a break in the Japan schedule, Kawamura, Matthew Griffin, Michael Hendry, David Bransdon, Anthony Quayle, Todd Sinnott, Aaron Townsend, Scott Strange and David Smail are all rushing to paradise to tee it up at the Fiji tournament tri-sanctioned by the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia, Asian Tour and European Tour.
Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Fiji International is all geared up to welcome JapanKawamura, who tied 39th at The Open after succeeding a runner-up finish at the Mizuno Open, will be contend for the first time in the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways.
“I am very much looking forward to playing in the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways, I have heard that the course is challenging but very beautiful,” said Kawamura.
“It has been a busy time preparing for and playing in The Open, so I hope to also enjoy some time relaxing in Fiji and enjoying the beach.”
Fiji has opened up to Japan and is currently just a short Fiji Airways flight away. Credit goes to the new direct route from Tokyo to Nadi, return.
“Japan is our new tourism focus and already we are seeing full Fiji Airways flights landing from Tokyo,” said Minister for Industry, Trade, Tourism, Lands and Mineral Resources, Faiyaz Siddiq Koya.