Focus Page 303
Branded Websites Lose Ground With Hotel Shoppers
The economic downturn has erased prerecession gains for hotel branded websites, as market pressures increase reliance on online travel agencies (OTAs). With occupancy still below 2007 levels and sluggish ADR growth, OTAs will grow at twice the rate of hotel websites in 2010.
Last minute Christmas breaks in Hannover
Low cost carrier Germanwings has recently launched a new service linking Stansted to Hannover in Germany. Here Breaking Travel News editor Chris O’Toole takes a festive trip to the Christmas markets in this most intriguing of destinations.
Christmas dreams come true at LaplandUK
LaplandUK, the winter theme park, is enjoying a healthy start to the new season as a 30 percent reduction in ticket prices has led to a surge in bookings. BTN takes a closer look at the finest Father Christmas experience this side of the Arctic Circle.
Tony Gonchar to head up ASTA
The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) has set its sights on the next level with news of the appointment of industry veteran and marketing guru Tony Gonchar as the new CEO. Gonchar will take up the role at the world’s largest association for travel professionals on 3 January 2011, and brings more than 25 years of experience, including top roles at Virtuoso, Expedia and Microsoft.
CHTA 2011 preview: James Hepple, Aruba
Aruba is one of the most tourism dependent nations in the world, with 90 percent of the population working in the industry. In the build-up to Caribbean Marketplace 2011, BTN speaks to James Hepple, President & CEO, Aruba Hotel & Tourism Association.
Travelling Near, Travelling Far: 2011 Holiday Ideas
With numerous cheap flights available online, finding the right holiday may seem like a daunting task. With volume, though, comes choice; more destinations and activities are open to the holidaymaker now than ever before.
Hilton Vilamoura launches classic golf tournament
Hot on the back of winning “Portugal’s Leading Golf Resort” at the 2010 World Travel Awards, Hilton Vilamoura is boosting its Sport Tourism credentials yet further with the announcment that it will host the inaugural Hilton Vilamoura Golf Classic. The tournament takes place 14-17 January 2011 and includes two days of golf in two of the finest golf courses in the Algarve.
Bruce Ashby takes up the oneworld reins
Aviation veteran Bruce Ashby has been named as Chief Executive of oneworld. The appointment comes as part of the leading airline alliance’s relocation to new headquarters in New York following a breakthrough year in 2010.
Editor’s Blog: Too quick to judge South Africa
The murder of Anni Dewani predictably shocked the world, but whatever the outcome of the investigation into her death it is South Africa which has been found guilty until proven innocent.
BTN Spotlight: Alex Willats, Dusit Thani Bangkok
Thailand is set for double-digt growth in international arrives this year as the land of smiles positions itself as Asia’s hub of Sport Tourism. BTN talks to Alex Willats, the new Resident Manager of the capital’s iconic Dusit Thani Bangkok.
Who Generates More Online Travel Revenue? European or U.S consumers
In a cross-pond comparison of online travel bookings, Europe tops the U.S. European online leisure/unmanaged business travel bookings surpassed U.S. bookings in 2008 and will continue to retain a lead in 2010, according to PhoCusWright’s European Online Travel Overview Sixth Edition and PhoCusWright’s U.S. Online Travel Overview Tenth Edition.
Abu Dhabi - the new superstar of sport tourism
As the FIFA Club World Club kicks off in Abu Dhabi this week, the eyes of the sporting world will once again be turning to the fast-growing emirate, and the style with which it setting a new benchmark for Sport Tourism.