Category: Buy2Greece

Sustainable development of tourism at religious heritage sites was in focus at the International Conference on Religious Heritage and Tourism: Types, trends and challenges, jointly organized by UNWTO, the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism of Spain and the City Hall of Elche (27-28 November 2014, Elche, Spain).

According to UNWTO estimates, 300 to 330 million tourists visit the world´s key religious sites every year, with approximately 600 million national and international religious voyages in the world, 40% of which take place in Europe. Being key tourism destinations, religious heritage sites not only drive international tourism and economic growth, but also provide important meeting grounds for visitors and host communities, making vital contributions to tolerance, respect and mutual understanding between different cultures.

With this backdrop, the International Conference on Religious Heritage and Tourism explored the main challenges and best practices for sustainable tourism development at religious sites in the city of Elche, Spain, home to the Mystery Play of Elx, the last living testimony of European religious theatre of the Middle Ages and declared a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

“Among the many motivations for travelling, visiting cultural or religious sites ranks high on travelers’ wish lists. Leveraging the growing interest for religious tourism worldwide is not only beneficial for the tourism sector, but crucial in building cultural dialogue and peace”, said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai, opening the Conference. “Religious tourism can also be a powerful instrument for raising awareness regarding the importance of safeguarding one´s heritage and that of humanity, and help preserve these important sites for future generations”, he added.

The Secretary of State for Tourism of Spain, Isabel Borrego, highlighted the fruitful cooperation between UNWTO and Spain in further spreading awareness of the value of historical, cultural and artistic heritage, and stressed the importance of this particular tourism segment for Spain. “There is not a single town or city in Spain where you won’t find traditions, festivals religious celebrations, pilgrimages, monasteries, cathedrals or pilgrimages. Religious tourism boosts economic activity and helps safeguard our rich historic heritage, and will play an essential role in the future of the tourism sector.”

The Mayor of Elche, Mercedes Alonso García, said: “Tourists are not only seeking to experience nature but also the most deeply rooted creations of the human spirit. In this sense, and as this conference has shown, a quality tourism offer consists of tangible cultural and religious heritage, as well as the intangible realities and cultural events fostered by them.”

During the Conference, participants highlighted the role of religious heritage sites and religious traditions in educating future generations and creating a sense of belonging in host communities, the need to preserve the integrity and authenticity of these sites and having local communities benefiting from tourism development.

Participants also highlighted that tourism has become one of the forces driving preservation in many religious sites due to the growing secularization of society, and that for tourists interacting with other religions is a unique experience that can only happen within the full respect for host communities.

A new survey, commissioned by All Nippon Airways (ANA) for the US market, has found that 72% of U.S. airline passengers have felt anxious about flying before. The most anxious flyers find takeoff to be the most stress-inducing part of the journey (68%), which is why Japan’s largest airline, ANA, developed ‘ANA Takeoff Mode’, specifically designed to relax and take people’s minds off the takeoff.

The ‘ANA Takeoff Mode’ app takes the form of a simple but absorbing puzzle where users have to maneuver a ball on screen to collect points, with relaxing music playing in the background. What really makes the app truly unique; however, is that it measures the amplitude and frequency response of the ambient noise inside the aircraft cabin. When the aircraft’s engines are at full throttle during takeoff, the audio profile triggers a special animation and message for the user. (The surrounding environment may affect how the app detects takeoff.)

The puzzle aspect of the game should prove particularly appealing. In the ANA survey, puzzle games ranked second only to listening to music when it came to ways that passengers relaxed while flying (61% of people relax by listening to music; 56% by playing puzzle games). Reading, watching TV and falling asleep came in not far behind (54%, 48% and 46% respectively).

The ‘ANA Takeoff Mode’ is one of the first smartphones apps to take advantage of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)’s announcement on October 31, 2013 that airlines can safely expand passenger use of Portable Electronic Devices during all phases of flight.

“ANA offers a unique flight experience with staff paying attention to even the smallest detail to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable flight for all our customers. Consideration has gone into every stage of the passenger journey, from our flagship lounges in Tokyo to our award winning ‘Connoisseurs’ inflight dining experience. Now we hope that the ‘ANA Takeoff Mode’ will ease and relax flyers, allowing them to enjoy their flight with ANA from the very beginning.” said Masaki Yokai, VP Marketing & Sales The Americas.

The 13^th edition of ILTM was hailed by both exhibitors and hosted buyers as “the ultimate global meeting in the annual luxury calendar” when it closed on Thursday 4 December in Cannes, France with the number of one-to-one business appointments between luxury travel suppliers and buyers increasing from just over 56,000 to 58,001 year on year.

Jeff David, Managing Director of the soon to open Knickerbocker Hotel in New York comments “ILTM really is the event that keeps on giving.  It’s not just the number of key new contacts we have met in official meetings, it’s the opportunity to begin and develop relationships with a phenomenal list of high profile media throughout the course of the show.”

67 elite luxury travel media from 17 countries across the world were hosted at ILTM 2014, many of whom came to source Hot Lists and trends for 2015 from over 1460 exhibitors from 95 countries at the show.  Victoria Mather, Travel Editor of Vanity Fair referred to ILTM as “The World Economic Forum of Luxury Travel.”

Eric Demay of specialist tailor-made tour company, The Real Japan says ILTM 2014 “Surpassed all my expectations – what an invaluable investment”. Riad Kneife of Riad Kneife Design and Vintage Shopping Service, Paris adds “For the 4^thconsecutive year, ILTM has been an incredible experience: an exclusive opportunity to meet the top of the top of the luxury industry.  Most importantly, ILTM is where to anticipate the future of luxury – I could not imagine where I would be without this unique and invaluable event.”

1452 buyers from 75 countries were hosted at this year’s ILTM, 36% of whom are new to ILTM events. Helene Altit of Platinum Travel Corporation, Australia says “This has been my first experience and it has been an amazing learning curve.  I would never have had the opportunity to meet so many luxury experiences and hoteliers in one place at one time.  ILTM really is the must attend event that everyone told me it would be.”

Catherine Heald of Remote Lands Inc, New York says “This is THE show – everyone who’s anyone is here.  The travel industry is all about relationships and at ILTM, you spend quality time with the people that really matter and learn about the experiences that really resonate – it’s the ultimate party and the ultimate learning curve.”

And Kyle Seltzer of SmartFLyer concludes “This is my first time at ILTM and it’s a genuine reminder of how fortunate we are to work in an industry where we can share the personal experiences we have gained from meeting unforgettable exhibitors from around the world and understand how these meetings will transcend into experiences for our clients.”

Thousands of seats and hundreds of holiday destinations are closer to you with the British Airways sale that starts on December 5, 2014.

Take a trip to the US with return flights from Delhi to San Francisco starting at just INR 53,760 (all inclusive return fares) with savings of up to 74% on the base fare. Connect from Chennai to Chicago on Club World (business cabin) with a discount of up to 37% on the base fare. British Airways invites all its Indian customers to fly from the five cities it connects in India to any destination of their choice in the US.

The offer is available on flights booked in Club World (business cabin) and World Traveller (economy cabin) for sale period, December 5 -15, 2014 and outbound travel on or before March 31, 2015.

Christopher Fordyce, Regional Commercial Manager, British Airways, South Asia, said “We are delighted to launch the biggest sale of the year for all our Indian customers to visit some of the best destinations in the US, whilst enjoying our award winning facilities on-board.

“This is a significant year for us at British Airways as we celebrate 90 years of flying to India. At British Airways, we take great pride in delivering the highest levels of innovative customer service and are proud of our long standing association with India.

“With connectivity to over 500 destinations in association with American Airlines, our customers will arrive, depart and transfer through Terminal 5, British Airways’ dedicated home at London Heathrow, which offers a smooth and seamless travel experience.”

Customers can experience exceptional comfort and impeccable service on board its flights. British Airways’ Club World cabin combines elements from the home and business to create an ideal environment that is comfortable, flexible and private, while World Traveller is a full-service economy cabin packed with all the comfort and benefits at an affordable price.

2014 marks a landmark year for British Airways and as part of these celebrations the airline has introduced an array of special initiatives for its Indian customers.

Tripadvisor the world’s largest travel site,  announced the winners of its Travellers’ Choice awards for Destinations on the Rise. The awards highlight 52 spots around the world that have seen the greatest increase in positive feedback and interest from the TripAdvisor community, year-over-year.

This year two Indian destinations have made it to the coveted list, Leh (Rank # 7) and Rishikesh (Rank #10) as opposed to just one last year. In addition to Asia and world, Travellers’ Choice Destinations on the Rise lists were also unveiled for the U.S, Europe, South America, and the South Pacific.

Award-winners were determined using an algorithm that primarily measured the year-over-year increase in positive TripAdvisor traveller review ratings on accommodations, restaurants, and attractions, across destinations worldwide.

“The TripAdvisor community has helped surface some unheralded destinations across the globe that are receiving rave reviews from travellers worldwide,” said Barbara Messing, chief marketing officer for TripAdvisor. “From the boardwalks of the Jersey Shore to the temples of Vietnam, these award-winners offer highly-rated options for accommodations, restaurants and activities to inspire those planning their vacations for the new year.”

Travellers’ Choice Destinations on the Rise – ASIA

1. Da Nang, Vietnam – 122 Hotels, 203 Restaurants, 74 Attractions (Average nightly hotel rate1: $51.04)

Located between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, this destination is known for its tranquil beaches, culinary tours, and Buddhist sanctuaries. TripAdvisor reviewers suggest a visit to the historic Marble Mountains where the “panoramic scenery is breathtaking.” For an authentic Vietnamese meal, travellers should not miss Lam Vien Restaurant.

2. Sihanoukville, Cambodia – 53 Hotels, 197 Restaurants, 61 Attractions (Average nightly hotel rate: $99.35)

Surrounded by the Bay of Thailand, Sihanoukville is a spectacular beach town that offers premier snorkelling and diving. TripAdvisor reviewers describe Ream National Park as “a true tropical forest.” After exploring, travellers should check out Martini Beach, a great place to eat and marvel at the sunset.

3. Ao Nang, Thailand – 87 Hotels, 157 Restaurants, 78 Attractions (Average nightly hotel rate: $68.40)

Beloved by travellers for its world class beaches and water sports, Ao Nang in Krabi is quickly growing in popularity. One TripAdvisor reviewer described Phra Nang Beach as “beautiful, clean and pristine.” In between swimming and sun bathing, travellers are invited to dine on incredible Thai food at Tom Ma Yom, which offers succulent prawns, papaya salad, and more.

4. Naha, Japan – 102 Hotels, 1,059 Restaurants, 82 Attractions (Average nightly hotel rate: $84.38)

Located on the southern coast of Okinawa Island, Naha is known for its historic monuments and majestic gardens. One traveller noted that Shurijo Castle has been rebuilt to give visitors a “real feel” for ancient castles. TripAdvisor reviewers also rave about the traditional Okinawan cuisine at Yunangi noting, “It’s well worth the wait.”

5. Malé, Maldives – 38 Hotels, 89 Restaurants, 24 Attractions (Average nightly hotel rate: $275.20)

As the island capital of Maldives, Male has its own distinctive character where travellers can have a taste of true Maldivian culture before heading out to the archipelago of islands. TripAdvisor reviewers describe the Old Friday Mosque as containing “one of the most important woodcarvings and laquerwork in the country”. Hungry travellers can drop by Sala Thai Restaurant for “one of the best restaurants in Male.”

6. Baku, Azerbaijan – 92 Hotels, 51 Restaurants, 213 Attractions (Average nightly hotel rate: $162.64)

From its time as a Persian capital to its Soviet occupation, Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, is steeped in heritage. Visit Old City Baku to explore its “maze of little cobble-stoned streets, caravansaries, palaces, churches and mosques”, as well as the Maiden’s Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is also “one of the most noted landmarks and Azerbaijan’s most distinctive national symbol.”

7. Leh, India – 51 Hotels, 53 Restaurants, 52 Attractions (Average nightly hotel rate: $85.21)

Surrounded by mountains, Leh is a picturesque city that used to be the capital of the Himalayan kingdom of Ladakh. With monasteries such as Thiksey Monastery in close proximity for travellers looking for a spiritual retreat and “peace and positivity”, the landscape of Leh also provides of numerous adventure activities.

8. Kandy, Sri Lanka – 50 Hotels, 73 Restaurants, 75 Attractions (Average nightly hotel rate: 107.27)

Kandy was the last capital of the ancient kings of Sri Lanka before becoming a British colony in 1815. The city still retains much of the Sinhalese tradition, and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988. Travellers looking for a place to rest can visit Slightly Chilled Lounge Bar for the “excellent view of Kandy lake and the surrounding city.”

9. Yerevan, Armenia – 50 Hotels, 279 Restaurants, 73 Attractions (Average nightly hotel rate: $125.97)

Yerevan has been the capital of Armenia since 1918. The city is immensely rich in history, having been under Arab, Ottoman, Persian and Soviet rule in the past. TripAdvisor reviewers recommend a visit to The Museum of Ancient Manuscripts for “excellent display of many Armenian documents going back over a thousand years.” For a taste of Armenian cuisine with a French twist, travellers should not miss The Club Yerevan.

10. Rishikesh, India – 40 Hotels, 68 Restaurants, 66 Attractions (Average nightly hotel rate: $59.62)

Rishikesh, located at the base of the Himalayas, is also famously known as the World Capital of Yoga, drawing visitors from all around the world including The Beatles in the 1960s. The Beatles Ashram is the exact site that the Beatles visited almost 50 years ago which TripAdvisor reviewers describe as having “a great and powerful energy”. For an eatery with a similar relaxing ambience, travellers can visit Bistro Nirvana for a meal.

Travelers’ Choice Destinations on the Rise – World 1. Da Nang, Vietnam – 122 Hotels, 203 Restaurants, 74 Attractions 2. Sihanoukville, Cambodia – 53 Hotels, 197 Restaurants, 61 Attractions 3. Limassol, Cyprus – 60 Hotels, 337 Restaurants, 83 Attractions 4. Ao Nang, Thailand – 87 Hotels, 157 Restaurants, 78 Attractions 5. Bodrum City, Turkey – 115 Hotels, 385 Restaurants, 101 Attractions 6. Naha, Japan – 102 Hotels, 1,059 Restaurants, 82 Attractions 7. Hurghada, Egypt – 182 Hotels, 229 Restaurants, 162 Attractions 8. Kazan, Russia – 44 Hotels, 1,081 Restaurants, 217 Attractions 9. Manaus, Brazil – 40 Hotels, 935 Restaurants, 141 Attractions 10. Eilat, Israel – 65 Hotels, 88 Restaurants, 65 Attractions.

Norwegian has once again been voted “Europe’s best low-cost airline” – this time by AirlineRatings.com. The jury praises Norwegian’s ability to offer its passengers an innovative quality product and new routes at low fares. This is the second year running that Norwegian is awarded this international title by AirlineRatings.com.

AirlineRatings.com recently announced the winners of its “Airline Excellence Awards”. For the second year running, Norwegian is named “Europe’s best low-cost airline” by the jury. Winners from the other continents are: JetBlue (The Americas), Scoot (Asia / Pacific) and Kulula (Middle East / Africa). Norwegian is the only Nordic airline to receive a title. Last summer, Norwegian was also voted “Europe’s best low-cost airline” by the renowned Skytrax World Airline Awards for the second year running.

The four airlines are standouts in their respective markets with very clever innovations and they consistently delivery an excellent value proposition. These airlines may not always offer the lowest fare but what they always do is deliver the best value. And these airlines open new routes and make travel fun for millions who could previously not afford to fly,” said AirlineRatings.com Editor-in-Chief Geoffrey Thomas.

“This recognition means a lot and yet again confirms that customers appreciate Norwegian. We have new aircraft, free WiFi, low fares and many direct flights, but most importantly; we have skilled employees who every day ensure that our passengers enjoy their experience on board. Norwegian has won numerous international awards where the customers themselves have voted for us to become the best low-cost carrier. We will do our utmost and continue to work hard so that everyone has a good journey with us,” says Norwegian’s CEO Bjørn Kjos.

Flights were checked as cancelled’ on a flight information display near Christmas decoration sat the airport in Hanover,Germany, on three days, amid a pilot strike.

German carrier Lufthansa is facing yet another debilitating strike by its pilots, who said they’d walk off the job on Thursday. The strike, which has forced about three-dozen U.S. cancellations beginning Wednesday evening, is the pilots’ second strike this week and the 10th in 2014.

Pilots are upset over Lufthansa’s plans to make changes to its early retirement options. Currently, pilots can retire at age 55 and receive as much as 60% of their pay until they turn 65, when standard retirement benefits begin. German news network Deutsche Welle says Lufthansa “does not want new hires to fall under the plan (and) wishes to increase the early retirement age to 61.” The union wants no changes to the current program.

In fact, the announcement of the new strike comes as pilots already are involved in an ongoing strike that’s scheduled to wind down by the end of Tuesday. That disruption had forced Lufthansa to cancel half of its scheduled flights for Monday and Tuesday, grounding 1,350 flights — nearly half its schedule — and disrupting travel plans of about 150,000 passengers.

The Vereinigung Cockpit union said its latest walk-off would target Lufthansa’s long-haul and cargo flights on Thursday. The union said short- and medium-length flights would be unaffected.

The strike will affect numerous flights to North America. Lufthansa has already released a list of flights that would be grounded by the action. Among its U.S. destinations hit with cancellations for Wednesday evening and Thursday are Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Detroit, Houston, New York, Orlando, Philadelphia, Seattle and Washington.

In a statement Lufthansa said it could not afford the current scheme as it faces increased competition from both low-cost rivals in Europe and massive expanding Middle East airlines.