Focus Page 310
Opportunities for Travel in the Cloud
The emergence of cloud computing has not been a high profile breakthrough like the telephone or email.
Michael Jackson alive and living in Dubai?
Footage claiming to show Michael Jackson stepping out a coroner’s van after his death is being seized upon by conspiracy theorists who believe that the King of Pop is still alive and kicking. Two months on from the day the world was rocked by the death of our greatest pop superstar, where might Jacko be now if he really did stage his own demise?
Zimbabwe and the rise and fall of Robert Mugabe
In a new column about nations that are tourism pariahs today but have the attributes to become stars of tomorrow, BTN looks at the potential of Zimbabwe.
Phuket leads Thai tourism revival
Thailand’s tourism jewel of Phuket is leading the country’s dramatic tourism revival. In November the paradise island will be marking its arrival on the global sport tourism arena with opening of the groundbreaking Phuket International Academy Sports and Leisure Club. BTN finds out more.
Hacienda Tres Ríos raises the green stakes
Since opening in November 2008, Mexico’s Hacienda Tres Ríos Resort has rapidly established a reputation as the ultimate green retreat. It has been nominated for “Mexico & Central America’s Leading Green Hotel” at the 2010 World Travel Awards in October.
Who is Happier? Guests of Two-Star or Five-Star Hotels?
If online traveler reviews are any indication, guests of luxury five-star hotels are no more satisfied with their accommodation experience than are travelers who stay at moderate, two-star accommodation.
Italy’s Finest: Pullman Timi Ama Sardegna
Nestled alongside an idyllic bay overlooked by the Aragonese watchtower, Pullman Timi Ama Sardegna is recognised as one of the finest establishments in the Mediterranean. Surrounded by lush, verdant vegetation, the property sits just two kilometres from the small town of Villasimius in the extreme south-east of the island, and offers access to a natural salt lake and a charming, white-sand beach.
Editor’s Blog: Cameron looks to the past
In a speech this morning prime minister David Cameron argued Britain must focus on its heritage in order to attract more visitors. Breaking Travel News junior editor Chris O’Toole argues the coalition will need more than empty promises to revive the industry.
The Ancillary Services Goldmine
Now that airlines have struck gold with the revenue streams flowing from ancillary services, the industry may never be the same.
Etihad launches “all economy” service
Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the UAE, is introducing its first “all economy” class aircraft into its fleet in October 2010. The launch aims to help the fast-growing carrier deliver an even more competitive product on key short-haul routes from its Abu Dhabi home base.
UNESCO World Heritage List 2010
With fewer than a thousand destinations afforded the prestigious honour, recognition by the UNESCO World Heritage List can catapult a national treasure to international fame. With just 21 additions to the list made this year, Breaking Travel News here takes a look at those which made the cut.
Editor’s Blog: Is it safe to travel in Sri Lanka?
As the FCO lifts its warning against travel to Sri Lanka, Breaking Travel News junior editor Chris O’Toole assesses whether it is now safe to travel to the Indian Ocean destination.