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).

Παρασκευή 31 Αυγούστου 2018

3rd consecutive Seatrade Cruise Asia Pacific event to be held in Baoshan, Shanghai






Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για 3rd consecutive Seatrade Cruise Asia Pacific event to be held in Baoshan, Shanghai


 Baoshan, Shanghai (China) - Ahead of this year’s Seatrade Cruise Asia Pacific, which takes place for the 3rd consecutive year in Baoshan District, Shanghai, China, it has been revealed that a record-breaking 4,052,000 Asians took an ocean cruise in 2017 – a whopping 20.6% increase in growth from the previous year and more than three times the global growth.  This includes 2.1million passengers from China alone.
The details, released by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), also showed that the Asia Pacific region has seven markets featured in the top 20 cruise passenger source markets – including China mainland, Taiwan, Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong SAR, Malaysia and India.  Asia also accounted for about 15% of total global ocean passenger volume in 2017.
The development of source markets throughout Asia Pacific will be the topic of one of the sessions being held at the 3 day event which takes place from 23-25 October 2018 in a joint commitment with Shanghai Baoshan Municipal People’s Government; Shanghai International Cruise Business Institute and Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal.
According to Andrew Williams, General Manager of the Seatrade portfolio, UBM EMEA, the Asia Pacific region has successfully introduced and laid the foundations for a vibrant cruise market.  Mentioning China specifically, he said: “China is the second leading source market in the world, yet penetration for mainland China is just 0.17% , meaning there is huge potential for further growth and as cruising is turning into mainstream travel for the Chinese, the market is entering the next ‘Golden Decade’.’’
“During the next 10 years, China’s focus needs to be on optimising sustainability of the market and deepening its economic influence in the region,” he added.
An important session at Seatrade Cruise Asia Pacific entitled ‘China’s next Golden Decade in Cruising: how to balance growth and sustainability’ will address the challenges and how the government and cruise line operators plan to work together to guarantee a successful future.
Speaking about the event, Andrew Williams, said: “It is widely predicted that demand for cruising in Asia will continue to grow, both as a source market for cruise passengers and as a key destination for cruise ship deployment.  Seatrade Cruise Asia Pacific looks at the opportunities for expanding cruise sales across the region and the variation in tastes for the individual Asian source markets, and how the product can be adapted to address these tastes. It will also focusses on the current pattern of cruise ship deployment in the region and the opportunities for developing new itineraries and new destinations.”
Mr Williams also made mention to China’s buoyant cruise shipbuilding and repair sectors and said that a session ‘Made in, and for, China’ will examine the opportunities for technical suppliers in this growing market.  The session will also focus on ship interiors and explore the crucial elements and principles when designing for Chinese and Asia customers.
The session comes at a timely point in China’s shipbuilding growth plans as China’s government has earmarked cruise shipbuilding as a major objective in its “Made in China 2025” program to upgrade its domestic manufacturing and support jobs at its shipyards.
In June, the keel-laying for SunStone Ships’ first Infinity-class cruise vessel being built by China Merchants Heavy Industries took place in Haimen, China.  This is the first in a series of Sunstone Ships with four firm orders and six options.
In addition, the first China-built cruise ship for Carnival Corp is due in 2023 with a second to follow a year later plus four more options. The ships will be constructed by China’s CSSC yard and operated specifically for the Chinese market by a new domestic brand.
 Chinese shipyards are also looking at the refit/refurbishment market with Fincantieri and Chinese repair specialist Huarun Dadong Dockyard (HRDD) forming the first international joint venture specifically designed to handle cruise ships operating in the Chinese market.
Looking at the event conference programme, an interesting discussion is also planned about ‘how can cruising leverage the growth of China’s Outbound Travel market’.  China's outbound travel market has benefited from the increasing population in Chinese middle-class which has resulted in a group of people with bigger buying power and more willingness to purchase mid- to high-end travel products.
“As cruise is considered as one of the high-end travel products on offer to holiday makers, this one to one session will address the importance of making cruise travel stand out against inland travel holidays and look at ways to harness the growth of China's vibrant outbound travel market.
Taking place over three days, Seatrade Cruise Asia Pacific will begin with a familiarisation trip to Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal followed by an evening welcome reception. Day two will begin with an Opening Ceremony on 24th October.  This will include a keynote address by Madam Wang, Hong, Party Secretary General, Shanghai Baoshan People’s Government.
Keynote addresses and State of the Industry Panel will follow and the day also includes sessions about: China’s next Golden Decade in Cruising; How to balance growth and sustainability; Cruising’s Development in the Asia Pacific – Source Market; Cruising’s Compliance and Regulatory Update in Asia and Cruise Supporting Industry Development Forum.  An innovation Arena will be dedicated to a series of short presentations.
Day three includes: A Spotlight Interview: How to deliver right products to the right people – a story of cruise education and brand marketing; Establishing a customer-centric cruise culture across Asia; How can cruising leverage the growth of China’s outbound travel market; How fly-cruise boosts Asian cruisers; Made in, and for, China; The rise of China’s cruise shipbuilding and repair sectors, and opportunities for technical suppliers in a growing market; Cruise ship interiors – designing for the Chinese consumer; Asia ports and destinations; International cruise research alliance summit; Ports, destinations and service providers workshop; Cruise talent education alliance summit; reimagining shorex and Future Views: Cruise in Asia 2030.
Travel Agent Training delivered by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) will also be run alongside the busy conference programme.
Seatrade Cruise Asia Pacific is the region’s leading cruise industry event and gateway for the international cruise community. Welcoming over 900 attendees, the event brings together a network of powerful industry influencers and cruise line executives to China to attend the conference; network and do business.


The worst places to fall ill on holiday revealed







Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για The worst places to fall ill on holiday revealed



Summer holiday season is just about over and Britons have been travelling abroad en masse. But what happens when it’s not all fun in the sun? Every year, thousands of Britons fall ill and claim on their travel insurance, with popular destinations like Spain and the U.S. topping the list as 28% of UK tourists claim whilst visiting the countries. That’s why Get Going, leading medical travel insurance providers, have put together this essential guide for adventurers keen to protect themselves - and their cash.
Get Going’s guide ranks the best - and worst - destinations to fall ill on holiday, citing factors such as average medical travel insurance claim costs, the risk of infectious disease, vaccination recommendations, and clean water availability. Taking the risks into account can ensure travellers are prepared should something unfortunate happen.
Best Places to Fall Ill
  • Belgium - The nation ranks as the best destination to fall ill in, with only 0.20% of UK tourists making claims whilst on holiday. The average medical health claim will set you back £255.86, but with 128 health professionals per 10,000 - Belgium and the UK have the least vaccinations recommended for entry.
  • Israel - Despite being the most expensive out of the top three for medical claims, Israel has one of the lowest risks of major disease. Only 0.10% of UK tourists make a claim whilst visiting.
  • Finland - Known for its vast wilderness and ski resorts, Finland is actually the cheapest country for healthcare claims, with an average claim costing £118.63. The nation also has the third highest skilled health professional density, with 175 health professionals per 10,000 residents.
Worst Places to Fall Ill
  • Mexico - Those looking for a spot of sunshine and adventure might decide to travel to Mexico, but with lack of clean water and a risk of major infectious diseases, the country tops the list of worst places to fall ill in. Whilst only 2% of UK tourists make a claim in the country, the average cost of a medical claim is £962.00 and the nation also has one of the lowest health professional densities.
  • Poland - With 108 health professionals per 10,000 people, Poland is well served in comparison to countries like South Korea and Turkey. However, with an intermediate risk of major infectious diseases and lack of 100% clean water - it may come as a surprise that Poland is one of the riskiest places to fall ill.
  • Estonia - Known for its forests and elegant castles, Estonia has a growing tourism industry. However, with an intermediate risk, Estonia also requires a number of recommended vaccinations and it is a requirement to have the tetanus vaccine for entry.
Holiday Illness Costs by Numbers
  • Japan ranks as the most expensive destination for medical travel insurance claims, closely followed by the USA, with the average claims setting tourists back nearly £2,000 upfront: more than many can afford to spend on a holiday itself.
  • Finland is actually the cheapest of all nations to fall ill, with an average medical travel insurance claim being just £118.63.
  • Perhaps surprisingly, Finland is then followed by the UK, with an average medical travel insurance claim of £244.78
  • Hungary, Ireland, Israel and Austria follow in their relatively affordable footsteps.

Tags:Get Going

Autograph Collection Hotels Debuts In Turkey With Opening Of Sofa Hotel Istanbul



Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Autograph Collection Hotels Debuts In Turkey With Opening Of Sofa Hotel Istanbul



Autograph Collection Hotels, Marriott International’s distinctive collection of passionately independent hotels, announces the opening of Sofa Hotel Istanbul, a chic retreat situated in the historical heart of Turkey. Boasting contemporary interiors and a private collection of thoughtfully curated artwork, the 82-room hotel evokes its enviable location in the heart of Istanbul’s chic shopping district, Nişantaşı. The boutique property joins Autograph Collection Hotels’ unique portfolio of one-of-a-kind hotels around the world that share the brand’s values of vision, design and craft.

“As Autograph Collection Hotels’ first property in Turkey, Sofa Hotel Istanbul proudly exemplifies our commitment to providing guests with exactly like nothing else experiences. As the official sponsor of Istanbul’s Contemporary Art Fair, Sofa Hotel celebrates the city’s art scene, showcasing the works of local and international artists throughout the building for guests to enjoy,” said John Licence, VP Premium & Select Brands Europe at Marriott International.

Designed by renowned Turkish architect, Hakan Kiran, the hotel’s interiors are tranquil and relaxing, offering a contrast to the city’s bustling streets. Sleek lines, custom-designed furniture, bespoke artwork and modern light fittings complete the 82 guestrooms, which are decorated in grey tones with splashes of deep red, mustard and copper throughout. Five suites and a selection of terrace rooms with private balconies offer more space as well as stunning city views. Each guest room offers a large marble bathroom with standing shower and luxurious separate bathtub.

Located on the first floor, Sofie Restaurant is open 24/7 providing gourmet breakfast, lunch and dinner. Highly acclaimed Frankie Istanbul, one of Istanbul’s hottest rooftop destinations, offers an elegant and energetic ambience alongside a unique fusion menu of innovative Mediterranean dishes and local cuisine. Guests can also soak up spectacular views of the city at the stylish bar and lounge area, while enjoying the impressive wine list on offer.



For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the Green Spa is an oasis of wellbeing and tranquility utilizing the latest Asian and European wellness therapies. Spa-goers can choose from an array of body and beauty care, from Indian healing massages to hot stone therapy and traditional Turkish Hammams. The signature treatment – the ‘Sultans Special’ – is a traditional Turkish scrub that originates from the Ottoman era. As well as enjoying personalized treatments, guests can explore the relaxation pool, Jacuzzi and luxurious Turkish bath.

Meetings and events are expertly catered to in the hotel’s five meeting rooms equipped with the latest technology. A flexible area for bespoke events, up to 250 people can be accommodated in the largest space.

Sofa Hotel is the ultimate destination for travellers looking to explore the city’s heritage and culture. Guests can take a 10-minute stroll or hop on one of the vintage trams along Istiklal Caddesi, the main pedestrian boulevard, until they reach the city’s renowned shopping quarter and eclectic dining scene.


Rates at Sofa Hotel Istanbul start from 140 euros per night.



Tags:- Marriott

The Fifth Royal-Class Princess Cruise Ship Is Named




Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για The Fifth Royal-Class Princess Cruise Ship Is Named


As Princess Cruises continues to expand their fleet, the line has announced the name of the fifth Royal-class ship that will launch in 2020 – Enchanted Princess.


The ship is set to debut on June 15, 2020, and following will be the sixth Royal-class ship, set to launch in 2021. Construction of the 143,700-ton, 3,660 guest vessel will take place at the Fincantieri shipyard. The other four Royal-class ships are Royal, Regal, Majestic, and Sky Princess, the latter of which will join the fleet in October 2019.


“The name Enchanted Princess is captivating and conveys the elegance and grace of our new ship which will introduce more travellers to the pleasures and value of cruising, said Jan Swartz president of Princess Cruises. We are certain Enchanted Princess will exceed the expectations of our guests, ensuring they have the most memorable cruise vacation.


Princess Cruises also has two new Liquefied Natural Gas-powered ships on order, which brings their orders to five ships in six years.


Bookings for Enchanted Princess‘ inaugural European season will open on November 8, 2018


Popular restaurant and entertainment lounge 100 opens in Kingston, Jamaica









Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Popular restaurant and entertainment lounge 100 opens in Kingston, Jamaica

Popular restaurant and entertainment lounge, 100, which opened in Kingston during September 2015, recently opened its chain in a second location in Montego Bay.

The Montego Bay location opened on August 23 this year. It has been described by some businesses in the area as a much-needed addition to the city, which is known for its thriving tourism product.

The Chief Executive Officer of Sizzling Slots, (operators of 100), Gassan Azan expects that this new venture would enhance Montego Bay’s tourism offering a lot more with more dining and entertainment options.

Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για Popular restaurant and entertainment lounge 100 opens in Kingston, Jamaica

Azan believes that having 100 in Montego Bay will add value to the city’s tourism package and generate employment opportunities in Western Jamaica.
100 opened amid much fanfare as specially invited guests were treated to an evening of entertainment complete with tasty selections from 100’s menu.

Situated inside the Mega Mart complex in the heart of the city of Montego Bay, 100’s 3,000 square foot space boasts modern industrial styling accompanied with natural-wood finishes that creates a cool and trendy ambience.

This new restaurant is adorned with an array of big screens covering vast portions of the wall, high tables and wicker-inspired high chairs, and it is expected to be a gathering spot for viewing sporting and entertainment events.

100 Montego Bay also boasts of an impressive Jamaican-fusion menu, which combines local favorites with signature international dishes like 100’s oxtail arancini which some guests took delight on opening night.



Panasonic deploys connectivity services for TUI Cruises' new-build cruise ships











Αποτέλεσμα εικόνας για TUI Cruises' new-build cruise ships
LAKE FOREST, CALIF. - Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic) announced that in partnership with its subsidiary, ITC Global, it has been awarded a four-year contract by TUI Cruises for connectivity services to two new-build cruise ships, Mein Schiff 1 and new Mein Schiff 2. The agreement establishes communication capabilities onboard the vessels serving guests and crew, enhancing the user experience during the cruise line's travels across international waters. Germany-based TUI Cruises is a joint venture between TUI AG and Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. Headquartered in Hamburg, TUI Cruises voyages sail across the globe from the Baltic and Mediterranean Seas in Europe; to the Canary Islands; to the Caribbean in the Americas; to the Orient and greater Asia, with various channels in between.
As a Panasonic subsidiary, ITC Global leverages Panasonic's global broadband network to deliver connectivity to energy, maritime and enterprise customers. Panasonic offers a new approach to connectivity at sea, serving passengers and crew, as well as communications for ship operations and corporate networking. With the world's largest, most comprehensive broadband connectivity service, Panasonic delivers communications to a wide range of mobility markets, leveraging a high-availability Ku-band satellite network that covers more than 98 percent of maritime traffic routes.
The award by TUI Cruises marks the first comprehensive cruise connectivity contract for Panasonic and ITC Global. Installation and commissioning for the first of the sister ships, Mein Schiff 1, was finalized in March and the vessel successfully completed its maiden voyage in May. Mein Schiff 2 is currently under construction at Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland and set to join the TUI Cruises fleet in March 2019. Equipment for both vessels includes 2.4-meter multi-band antenna systems delivering high levels of bandwidth to accommodate connectivity demands for both ships' capacity of more than 3,000 total guests and crew onboard. The high-bandwidth solution calls for flexible technical and commercial service with dynamic bandwidth allocation and space segment management. Both vessels are being serviced via traditional geo-synchronous satellites, with future consideration of point-to-point, microwave and other technologies as the demand for additional capabilities expands. Leveraging Panasonic's third-generation communications network, service is backed by high-throughput satellite (HTS) coverage paired with the latest modem technology, and includes 24x7 service monitoring and support from ITC Global's Network Operations Center.
"TUI Cruises is recognized as one of the most successful cruise brands known for its premium, all-inclusive concept," said Ian Dawkins, CEO at ITC Global and Senior Vice President, Global Network Operations at Panasonic Avionics Corporation. "With this contract award, Panasonic and ITC Global have a unique opportunity to further elevate the brand in consumer markets through maximizing the user connectivity experience, most notably for TUI Cruises' guests – whether that's through making it possible for professionals to manage work responsibilities while spending time away with family, or by enabling social media enthusiasts to share vacation highlights in real-time with friends and family back home," continued Dawkins.
"Our job is to manage all aspects of the communications solution so that TUI Cruises is focused on what they do best – creating a memorable guest experience onboard. We take this responsibility seriously and look forward to continuing to work closely with the customer in delivering the advanced technologies required to make this possible," concluded Dawkins.
"Panasonic's extensive background in enhancing the passenger experience via its in-flight technology and entertainment solutions, combined with ITC Global's similar depth supporting crew welfare and connectivity services simplified our service partner selection, as the synergies presented were a natural fit to best meet our requirements," said Matthias Fahrner, Director IT Strategy & Competence Center at TUI Cruises.
ITC Global and Panasonic's collective expertise enables the development of platforms for onboard experience and revenue generation for both commercial and passenger applications. To learn more, read the latest cruise market case study or contact us to set a meeting with our team at SMM 2018, September 4-7 in Hamburg, Germany.