World Travel Awards News
Turkey tourism continues to soar
The number of tourists visiting Turkey rose 31 percent in April to 2.29 million compared with the same month last year, according to the Culture and Tourism Ministry. Germany provided the biggest source of growth, with Russia, the UK and France also fuelling numbers.
Singapore Airlines to launch long-haul budget carrier
Singapore Airlines has unveiled plans to launch a low-cost, long-haul carrier. The new carrier is expected to start operations within a year, and will be wholly owned by SIA but managed independently. It is expected to fly routes over five hours, competing with the likes of Jetstar Airways and AirAsiaX.
Paris Hilton returns to Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai
Hotel heiress Paris Hilton has made a return visit to Atlantis, The Palm during her stay in Dubai. The resort was voted “Middle East’s Leading Resort” earlier this month at 2011 World Travel Awards.
‘At.mosphere’ wins ‘UAE Leading Lifestyle Restaurant’ honour at World Travel Awards 2011
At.mosphere, the world’s highest restaurant located on Level 122 of Burj Khalifa, won the honour of ‘UAE’s Leading Lifestyle Restaurant’ at the World Travel Awards 2011
Obama set for royal welcome
Barack Obama is in London where he will be honoured by Queen Elizabeth at a state dinner on Tuesday evening, when he will also meet Prince William and Kate to congratulate them on their wedding. The US President arrived on Monday night, having cut his trip to Ireland half a day short due to concerns over possible disruption by the ash cloud.
Al-Futtaim Travel voted Middle East’s Leading Travel Management Company
Al-Futtaim Travel was honoured with the ‘Middle East’s Leading Travel Management Company 2011’ award at the prestigious World Travel Awards held in Dubai.
Dubai International Airport enjoys double-digit passenger growth
Fresh off the back of its victory at World Travel Awards where it was voted “Middle East’s Leading Airport 2011”, Dubai International Airport has reported a 13.2 percent surge in passenger traffic in April.The year to date traffic stands is 8.5 percent up on last year.
WTTC Summit 2011 – luxury travel pioneer Geoffrey Kent
Geoffrey Kent is one of the travel trade’s great characters, and a self-confessed adrenaline junkie. BTN looks at the career of the founder of Abercrombie & Kent, voted “World’s Leading Tour Operator 2010” by World Travel Awards, and chairman of the WTTC.
Hot on heels of WTA victory Anantara gains Bali’s First Green Globe Certification
Hot on the back of its victory at World Travel Awards 2011 Middle East Ceremony, Thai-based hospitality group Anantara has scored another coup with news that its Bali property Seminyak Resort & Spa has achieved Green Globe Certification.
WTTC Summit 2011 - Etihad retains independent streak
Etihad Airways, voted “World’s Leading Airline” at 2010 World Travel Awards, has said it has no plans to join any airline alliances. The rapidly-growing Abu Dhabi based carrier confirmed its bilateral partnerships with other airlines means it can remain competitive without joining an alliance.
Further accolades for InterContinental Asiana Saigon
They just can’t stop winning! InterContinental Asiana Saigon has been named as the ‘Best MICE Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City’ at the Best Tourism Brand awards. The accolade follows a recent victory at the World Travel Awards, where the property was recognised as Vietnam’s Leading Hotel.
BTN: Antony Lee, General Manager, May Fair Hotel, London
The May Fair Hotel, London is considered to be one of the most prestigious luxury hotels in the British capital with five star rooms, suites, health spa and gym. All this is located in a prized location on Hyde Park in central London – which has just been voted the “World’s Leading Destination” by the World Travel Awards. Here Breaking Travel News catches up with general manager Antony Lee to discover what separates the property from its many competitors.