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Optimism despite unrest characterises AHIC 2011
More than 500 industry leading delegates have been gathering at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai for the seventh Arabian Hotel Investment Conference.
AHIC Preview: Ed Fuller, Marriott
With Arabian Hotel Investment Conference – the premier hospitality event in the Middle East – now just days away, Breaking Travel News sat down with Ed Fuller, managing director for international lodging, Marriott International, to discuss what delegates can expect.
ATM preview: Le Royal Hotel Beirut
On the eve of Arabian Travel Market, BTN spoke to Joyce Mouawad, Head of Sales & Marketing Director, Le Royal Hotels & Resorts – Beirut, about Lebanon’s renaissance as the French Riviera of the Middle East.
Inside the hotel where Kate Middleton spent last night before the Royal Wedding
Kate Middleton today moves into Royal Apartment of the Goring Hotel in London’s Belgravia, where she will spend her last night as a commoner. BTN takes a peak inside the room which has just undergone a £150,000 makeover ahead of the big day.
AHIC preview: Kurt Ritter, President & CEO, Rezidor Hotels
Kurt Ritter has been President & CEO of The Rezidor Hotel Group for more than 20 years, making him the longest serving CEO in hospitality worldwide. On the eve of AHIC 2011, BTN asks his take on hospitality in the Middle East and where he see the opportunities for growth.
BTN spotlight: Mubarak Hamad Al Muhairi, ADTA Director General
His Excellency Mubarak Hamad Al Muhairi is the Director General of the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority. BTN spoke to him on the eve of the most important week in the Arabian tourism calendar, with ATM, AHIC and the World Travel Awards 2011 Middle East Ceremony set to take place.
ATM preview: The Meydan, Dubai
The Meydan is Dubai’s new sporting and business hub, and the home of Dubai World Cup, the world’s richest and most glamorous horse race. In the build up to Arabian Travel Market, BTN caught up with Craig Senior, Regional Director of Sales & Marketing, Meydan Hotels & Hospitality.
Puerto Rico: Rediscovered gem of the Caribbean
Nestled just a few miles south of the American mainland, Puerto Rico is an established cruise destination. But with European visitors now being targeted with an expanded offering, Breaking Travel News called in to check out the latest developments in this rapidly developing Caribbean destination.
ANA helps with Japan’s recovery
As Japan begins rebuilding after the devastating earthquake and tsunami of 11 March, All Nipon Airways is playing a key role in operating relief flights. BTN talks to Katsuji Kitazawa, ANA’s Head of UK Sales, about the current situation.
Effort reaps rewards for InterContinental Bangkok
After several years of narrow misses, InterContinental Bangkok was recognised at 2010 World Travel Awards for the first time as “Thailand’s Leading Hotel”. BTN talks to General Manager, Markus Platzer.
South Africa gears up for INDABA 2011
On the back of hosting a successful FIFA World Cup in 2010, South Africa is gearing up for INDABA 2011, Africa’s top travel exhibition, which is expected to see more exhibitors than ever.
Australia in sport tourism drive
Australia has highlighted the power of sport tourism as integral to its tourism industry, led by events such as the Formula 1 Grand Prix. BTN takes a closer look at how the nation is harnessing sport to attract a global audience.