B albaa Group will at-
tend the ITB in Ber-
lin to promote the unique
services and facilities of
its Hotels & Resorts in
Sharm El Sheikh and
Marsa Alam. Balbaa
Group, which are consid-
ered one of the leading
investors in tourism in
Egypt, consists of 6 joint
stock companies working
in tourist investment and
development projects.
T
IA Hotels & Resorts aim
to offer the very best in
the hospitality industry. With
its future plans to expand in
Egypt, Tia Hotels and Resorts
puts customer satisfaction as
its sole target.
M arketplace, rendezvous for
the tourism industry, and
catalyst all rolled into one, that
is the austrian and central
european business
(actb).
H
E Mr. Zoheir Garannah, Egypt’s Minis-
ter of Tourism announced lately in a press
conference that Egyptian tourism had a big
boom in the year 2008, pointing out that the
number of tourists visited the country reached
up to 12.8 million compared to 11.1 million in
2007; also the tourist nights reached above 129
million nights and the total revenue added up
to US$11 billion compared to US$9.5 billion in
2007, he added.
Mr. Garannah also explained that the hotel ca-
pacity in Egypt in 2008 reached 211 thousand
rooms with 11% increase than 2007, asserting
that the numbers Egypt achieved in 2008 were
likely to increase, but for the world financial cri-
sis that struck us all in the last quarter of 2008
and lead to a decrease in growth rate during the
that quarter of the year.
The Minister said that his Ministry, in coop-
eration with the private sector, is working on a
plan to limit the effect of the world crisis on the
Egyptian tourism industry.
The plan includes condensed joint publicity
campaign with travel agents, raising quality HE Mr. Zoheir Garannah, Egypt’s Minister of Tourism
standards, replacing reduced prices with spe-
cial offers, supporting low cost flights to Egypt, dia and South America, and offering different in-
continuing the support of charter flights, focus- centives to keep the flow of investment in tourist
ing on new promising markets like China, In- projects.
those in town on business or look-
ing for a ‘home from home’ experi-
ence while on holiday to those relo-
cating to the area or even seeking
temporary housing during house-
hold renovations.
The 140 suites incorporating stu-
dios, one, two and three bedrooms,
feature a fully-equipped kitchen
where guests can prepare their
own meals, state-of-the-art enter-
tainment and communications, in-
cluding free WiFi throughout the
hotel, and more space compared to
conventional hotel rooms, making
S
it a winner with business travellers
taybridge Suites Cairo Cit- between conventional hotels and and families alike.
ystars’s flexible approach serviced apartments. Staybridge Suite’s heart is the
and blend of the domestic As such, Staybridge Suites hub kitchen, where breakfast is
environment with traditional will accommodate the needs of served every morning.
hotel services bridges the gap a wide range of travellers, from Read more inside ....
2 FIRST PAGE Travel World Magazine Travel World Magazine NEWS 3

From editor’s desk...

100 Player and LE Million Prizes in Sharm
International Golf Tournament for Amateurs
Egypt made US$11billion, 12.8 million
C ity of Sharm El Sheikh witnessed lately a
great sport and tourist event, the Joli Ville
tourists plus 129 million nights in 2008
H
Sharm El Sheikh International Golf Tourna-
ment for Amateurs (Salem Trophy), which was E Mr. Zoheir Garannah, Egypt’s Minister of vestment in tourist projects. Mr. Garannah applaud-
Tourism announced lately in a press conference ed the success of last year’s Hajj and Umrah season
first started in 1998.
that Egyptian tourism had a big boom in the year which witnessed a considerable decrease in com-
Following its continuous support for tourism
2008, pointing out that the number of tourists visited plaints against the organizers, and a remarkable rise
in Egypt and despite the international finan-
the country reached up to 12.8 million compared to in service level. He added that this year shall witness
cial crisis the world is facing these days, the Joli 11.1 million in 2007; also the tourist nights reached a big boom in services rendered to tourists through
Ville Golf hotel, Sharm El Sheikh, organized this above 129 million nights and the total revenue added the reevaluation of all Egypt’s hotels in cooperation
year’s tournament depending upon its previous up to US$11 billion compared to US$9.5 billion in with the hotels chamber and the international tour-
continuous success along the years from 1998 till 2007, he added. ism association.
now. Mr. Garannah also explained that the hotel capaci- He also asserted the Ministry’s great interest in
More that 100 players participated in this year’s ty in Egypt in 2008 reached 211 thousand rooms with Arab tourism as one of the important reserves and
event representing several countries (Denmark, 11% increase than 2007, asserting that the numbers revealed that there are intensive efforts to set up a
Russia, Germany, England, Sweden, Switzer- Egypt achieved in 2008 were likely to increase, but new mechanism of promotion in the Arab market.
land, Belgium and Egypt) and the prizes totaled for the world financial crisis that struck us all in the Minister Garannah also attended a symposium

I would like to pass the following information to more than one million Egyptian Pounds. last quarter of 2008 and lead to a decrease in growth held by the Egyptian-Canadian Business Council
the Egyptian travel industry, maybe someone, rate during the that quarter of the year. with the Canadian Ambassador and a great number

Renaissance Alexandria Hotel

somewhere will understand how the world are mov- The Minister said that his Ministry, in cooperation of businessmen among the attendants.
ing around us. It says that MALAYSIA BECOMES with the private sector, is working on a plan to limit The Minister asserted during the symposium that
the effect of the world crisis on the Egyptian tourism the Ministry shall focus on concentrating the promo-
celebrates 25 years of Excellence
HUB OF MEDICAL CONFERENCES.
Asia’s burgeoning medical tourism industry, ex- industry. tional campaigns, increasing the budget of employ-
pected to be worth at least USD 4 billion by 2012, The plan includes condensed joint publicity cam- ees training to uplift the level of services and render-

is proving a windfall for the travel and hospitality
sectors. The lure of value-for-money, quality health-
care in Asia is estimated to be attracting more than
1.3 million tourists a year to key locations such as
Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, South Korea and
India. According to online investment news source,
Nuwire Investors, Malaysia is among the world’s
top five medical tourism destinations for medical
tourists and foreign investors.
In tandem with the country’s growing reputation
on the world healthcare map is increasing recog-
nition by a number of international and regional
medical associations of Malaysia as an ideal des-
tination for their respective meetings and conven-
tions. The success of one of the world’s largest
medical congresses in Kuala Lumpur in November
2006, the XVIII FIGO World Congress of Gynae-
cology and Obstetrics (FIGO) spurred an influx of
enquiries from global medical associations.
R
enaissance Alexandria Hotel has been over 25 years the most se- paign with travel agents, raising quality standards, ing a tourist product that stands on the added value
lective venue for all business and leisure travelers seeking dis- replacing reduced prices with special offers, sup- principle.
tinctive five stars hotels’ experiences in Alexandria, said Hisham El porting low cost flights to Egypt, continuing the sup- Mr. Garannah also called upon travel agents and
port of charter flights, focusing on new promising companies not to dismiss their employees because of
Demery the Hotel’s General Manager
markets like China, India and South America, and the crisis, arguing that the professional employment
The Renaissance Alexandria Hotel offers amazing views of the Medi- HE Mr. Zoheir Garannah, Egypt’s Minister of Tourism
offering different incentives to keep the flow of in- in tourism sector is indispensable.
terranean and golden sand beaches. It’s located in the city centre near
business districts, area attractions and Bibliotheca Alexandrina.
Whether traveling for business or leisure, you will find upscale el-
egance at our fully renovated 5-star hotel. Baron Palace Resort Sahl Hasheesh:
Our stylish rooms and suites feature high-speed Internet, luxurious
bedding, air-conditioning, and stunning sea views. Divine accommo- “A Luxury beyond Luxury”
B
dations, memorable moments this is the Renaissance Alexandria Ho-
aron Hotels & Resorts Egypt’s suc-
tel. Hisham added that throughout the past 25 years the management
cess continues to include the open-
utterly faith that ‘ that our associates have the first priority’ — they ing of its fourth luxurious resort Baron
are our greatest assets. Our Culture is the experience we create for Palace Resort Sahl Hasheesh, at Sahl Ha-
our customers, which is demonstrated by the behavior of our associ-
Hisham El Demery sheesh Bay, Egypt, late 2009.
ates. It is people serving people. Sahl Hasheesh, the jewel of the Red Sea, is
a new luxury destination emerging from

Delighted To Serve!
The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (the Cen-
the legendary shores of the Red Sea.
tre), as FIGO’s host venue, has thus benefited from
Several authentic factors distinguish
this and 2009 will see over 13,000 delegates con-
it from other worldwide destinations in-
verge there for a host of medical-related events that

will cover the latest developments, challenges and
much more, in disciplines ranging from hyperten-
sion and urology to military medicine, stem cells
and immunity, spine surgery and healthcare.
International and regional medical associations
are becoming increasingly aware of Malaysia’s
draw card as a value-for-money destination offer-
ing professional world-class service. The country’s
strategic location, world-class infrastructure and
internationally recognised quality standards make
Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur an attractive destina-
tion for business tourism, medical tourism and lei-
sure. The Centre is working closely with strategic
partners Tourism Malaysia, Malaysia Convention
and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), Malaysian Air-
lines (MAS), Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd and
the Kuala Lumpur City Council to ensure it takes
advantage of the fantastic opportunities that medi-
cal tourism is opening up.
Now, what about Egypt?!!
Aouelwafa Badour
I
n “Business Unusual” circumstances, we need to
be proactive and creative to achieve a win-win-
win scenario between customers, suppliers and
hotels
We need to be more flexible in accommodating and
adapting with the new buying trends and worldwide
changes to continue delivering quality holidays that
meet and exceed our customers expectation when they
choose Sharm El Sheikh for their holidays
“Delighted to Serve” is our vision to all our guests,
and we have integrated this vision into a variety of
added value offers and promotions that suites all
holidays’ seekers for leisure or business at Sharm El
Sheikh, the Red Sea peninsula.
Our guests experience attentive behaviors, they feel
welcome anywhere, anytime, they are delighted and
have a smile on their faces because we care; this is the
Renaissance “Savvy “Service that we promise every
guest to experience at Renaissance Sharm El Sheikh.
Gerald Moutt , the General Manager
www.renaissancesharmelsheikh.com
cluding natural beauty, historic heritage
and man-made miracles, all combined
together to offer the world the most well-
sought destination for years and years to come. Sahl Hasheesh Bay’s main at-
tractions are the Sunken City, an entire historic city underwater, a boardwalk
and an international marina.
The Baron Palace Resort Sahl Hasheesh is a luxurious resort set on the coast
of the Red Sea, with 48 acres of palm-filled grounds and 850 meters of private
sandy beach.
Both the actual and the visual review of the unique location of the Baron
Palace Resort on the shore line, reflect its significant impact on the architec-
ture and landscape. This marvelous architecture provides all Hotel rooms and
major public areas with a full view of sea front and sunset scenery. Roads and
walkways inside the resort are paved with decorative tiles sand-edged by palm
trees.
The Baron Palace Resort Sahl Hasheesh features one of the best conference
facilities in the region which is believed to be an international mark in the
Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE) Market. The main
ballroom accommodates 1,000 guests, while smaller meeting rooms will also
be available, all of which will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
Designed for luxury, the Resort is the best choice for both leisure and busi-
ness travelers.

March 2009 ITB - Berlin March 2009 ITB - Berlin

 4 HOT NEWS Travel World Magazine

Balbaa Group to attend ITB to promote

its unique Resorts all over Egypt
B
albaa Group will attend the ITB in Berlin to promote the unique services
and facilities of its Hotels & Resorts in Sharm El Sheikh and Marsa Alam.
Balbaa Group, which are considered one of the leading investors in tourism
in Egypt, consists of 6 joint stock companies working in tourist investment and de-
velopment projects.
It owns and manages 8 Hotels and Resorts in Sharm El Sheikh in South Sinai
and the Red Sea: Kahramana Sharm Resort in Neama Bay with 119 rooms, the
Laguna Vista Beach Resort and Laguna Vista Garden Resort with a capacity of
525 rooms combined and 288 rooms in El Hayat Sharm in Nabq Area in addition to
Kahramana Marsa Alam Beach Resort and the Kahramana Marsa Alam Garden
Resort with the capacity of 278 combiend and 320 chalets & Suites in the Calimera
Habiba Marsa Alam in addition to Abou Dabbab Diving Lodge in Marsa Alam with
62 rooms with its special famous sandy beach in the area and this is in addition to 50
hotel apartments in the Palm project in Dubai.
Eng. Ahmed Balbaa, Chairman of Balbaa Group who will head the Group’s said
the B&G Hotels & Resorts in Sharm and Marsa Alam: Our Resorts are a Mixture
of Elegance, Locations and Luxury rooms in order to meet the needs of our valued
guests to spend a memorable vacation and plan to come back again after experienc- Eng. Ahmed Balbaa Saad Attia
ing our services and facilities we offer to them with our special attention and care in
order to meet all their needs. resorts of Balbaa Group, we did it before and we will do it again in ITB and in all
He also added that El Hayat Sharm had added quite a number of hotel rooms and international big Tourism Events & Fairs to let the whole world know about our
over nights to Sharm capacity and helped, with its luxurious services and facilities, Group and the variety of facilities and services we provide our valued guests.” Said
to encourage a lot of tourists from all over the world to visit Sharm El Sheikh. Mr. Attia
Mr. Saad Attia, the Area Director of Sales & Marketing in Balbaa Group, who will It is worth Highlighting that the Balbaa Group for Hotels & Resorts has a number
attend the ITB too, will meet with the international tour operators and discuss with of new projects under construction and due to open within the upcoming few years
them the new plans for the coming seasons and focus on ideals and projects to sup- such as Kahramana Marsa Matrouh to open Summer 2010, 300 rooms Hotel in Ras
port them during this summer after the Recession which has hit the world Economy El Khema UAE to pen 2010, Laguna Vista Real Estate project in Sharm (302 units
and exchange positive ideals to implement to assure the continuation of their clients between Villas and Apartments) to open 2010 and B&G Hotel Management com-
who prefer Balbaa Group Resorts during their visit to Red Sea and South Sinai. pany in Dubai.
Mr. Attia said that he will continue to promote Sharm and Marsa Alam destina- The Group’s total investments in L.E 1.2 Billion, with 2500 employees under the
tion, and added that all Balbaa properties has maintained a good images in the in- umbrella of B&G Group,
ternational markets after the strong market plan he set and executed during the last Eng. Ahmed Balbaa is known to be the Honorary President of Marsa Alam city, for
few month and throughout the international tourism fairs. being the pioneer of tourism development in Marsa Alam and first investor to build
“Our professional marketing team will not leave any chance to promote the unique a hotel in this unique area.

Welcome to Renaissance Sharm El Sheikh!

Sameh Nadim, DOSM

Discover the under water paradise and access the

over coral reef tables provided by a floating jetty for
your comfort.
You will be immersed into the untouched world of
thousands of tropical fishes, infinite soft vivid colors
corals, Manta Rays, Turtles and much more...

Are you tired ?

Need to restore your energy ?
Looking for a great value for mon-
ey
escape to relax and rejuvenate?
We will make it happen for you!
Y ou deserve to reward your self, you partner and fam-
ily members with a fantastic vacation in a warm place
where Sun, Sand and crystal clear blue water of the Sinai
Peninsula are there waiting for you...
Our spacious bedrooms are pure understated luxury, a
tasteful blend of classic, comfortable furnishings with a
sense of peace and quiet
Why not trying one of our body treatment massages to
relax tired muscles and rejuvenate mind and spirit.
Enjoy a long drink in the Zinzina Sports Bar, take
afternoon tea in style at the Rotunda Bar or indulge in
some early-evening sparkle. We have a place for every
mood or occasion;
There is the relaxed atmosphere at Lobby Bar, the
timeless style of the mouse watering Italian cuisine at Il
Palio or the taste of Mexico at Acapulco Joe’s.
You deserve it! You are welcome
www.renaissancesharmelsheikh.com

March 2009 ITB - Berlin

 6 HOTEL NEWS Travel World Magazine

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) Opens First Staybridge Suites in Middle East and Africa

New extended stay all suite hotel brand arrives in Egypt

S
taybridge Suites Cairo Citystars’s flexible ap-
proach and blend of the domestic environment
with traditional hotel services bridges the gap be-
tween conventional hotels and serviced apartments.
As such, Staybridge Suites will accommodate the
needs of a wide range of travellers, from those in town
on business or looking for a ‘home from home’ experi-
ence while on holiday to those relocating to the area
or even seeking temporary housing during household
renovations.
The 140 suites incorporating studios, one, two and
three bedrooms, feature a fully-equipped kitchen
where guests can prepare their own meals, state-of-the-
art entertainment and communications, including free
WiFi throughout the hotel, and more space compared
to conventional hotel rooms, making it a winner with
business travellers and families alike.
Staybridge Suite’s heart is the hub kitchen, where
breakfast is served every morning. This is also the ven-
ue for the signature after-work receptions, held four
nights a week, when guests are served complimentary
drinks and nibbles and have a chance to relax while
meeting their neighbours. Adding to its cosy appeal is
the living room, complete with open fire, plus an out-
door terrace with a barbecue. Other added comforts
include an exercise room, guest laundry room and the
convenience of its own 24/7 deli-style pantry.

The Belguim queens at SUNRISE Rosita Hartley joins

Mamlouk Palace Resort InterContinental Cairo

S UNRISE Mamlouk Palace Resort – Hurhgada had CityStars as Director

hosted lately Miss Belguim beauty , the twenty
beautiful the ladies were suprised with the prepara-
of Housekeeping
tion and organization of SUNRISE Resorts and Cruises
company in cooperation with bright sky travel , where
they have spent marvolous and wonderful days &
nights started “with the karoake night in the Victoria
Pub of the SUNRISE Mamlouk palace , a trip to the
beautiful Mahmya Island, a visit to the Little Buddha
Bar in Hurghada, and a desert evening show and gal-
labia party at the Sahara sunset location “ , in addition
to enjoying leisure and fun at the fabulous scenery of
the SUNRISE Mamlouk palace during their stay while
preparing themselves for the final election.

Thomas Cook “German Travel Games”

at SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises Egypt
T he SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises – Egypt has host-
ed lately Thomas Cook “ German travel games”
event , The Event which took place in Both SUNRISE
Select Garden Beach & SUNRISE Select Mamlouk
Palace Resorts Hurghada includes 700 from Thomas
Cook sales representatives and retailers.
A very special program was prepared for them to
spend marvelous and wonderful nights during their
stay; The attendees were very impressed from the
service and warm hospitality shown by the Team of
SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises.
In the Final Party Philippe De Vizcaya – SUNRISE
Managing Director expressed his pleasure for hosting
this great event and assured for the Thomas Cook Sales
representatives and retailers who attended the event “
that SUNRISE Warm , unparalleled hospitality com-
bined with superior gastronomy is exactly what SUN-
RISE Clients ‘ will always receive
T hierry Perrot Director of Operations IHG
Egypt & Libya and General Manager In-
terContinental Cairo CityStars recently ap-
pointed Rosita Hartley in the capacity of Direc-
tor of Housekeeping for InterContinental Cairo
CityStars.
Rosita has a vast experience in the hospitality
industry for the past 35 years.
She worked for many international hotel
brands based mainly in London; she joined In-
terContinental Hotels Group in 2007 where she
worked at InterContinental London Park Lane
as Executive Housekeeper.
Rosita is looking forward to her new role at
InterContinental Cairo CityStars Hotel Team,
and is proud to be part of such a huge project.
March 2009 ITB - Berlin
Travel World Magazine NEWS 9

March 2009 ITB - Berlin

10 RESORTS
Mövenpick Resort & Spa El Gouna on
the successful path to sustainable tourism.
T he Mövenpick Resort & Spa El Gouna enjoys a
unique location directly on the beach overlooking
the crystal blue water of the Red Sea. Surrounded by
ever-growing gardens and tranquil lagoons it repre-
sents the perfect place for the ultimate holiday experi-
ence. To keep this paradise for generations to come, the
Resort does not spare any efforts in regards of Envi-
ronmental Management
Since many years, the management of Mövenpick Re-
sort & Spa El Gouna is showing responsibility and is
active in the field of environmental protection. Many
actions have been taken to reduce successfully energy
and water consumption, separate and reduce the waste,
follow a conscious purchasing policy, conduct employ-
ee trainings and increase guest awareness. All these ef-
forts have been recognized by several awards, that the
Resort has received from major European tour opera-
tors, local authorities as well as the prestigious interna-
tional Green Globe Gold Award.
The Resort has installed energy saving lamps in all ar-
eas to reduce energy consumption. Water saving devic-
es were fitted in all guest bathrooms, shower and toilets
and the waste water is treated at the resorts own sewage
plant to be reused to irrigate the gardens. Spread over
a large area, the Resorts gardens are designed to blend
in the natural surroundings of the place. The landscap-
ing is dominated by local trees and bushes, that are well
adapted to the climate and a modern irrigation system
such as drip irrigation is used in order to avoid evapo-
ration.
A considerable contribution to the reduction of water,
energy and chemicals is the towel/linen change policy
that is applied by the Resort. The decision is left to the
guest on how often he requests his towels/linen to be
changed and make an active contribution to the envi-
ronment. In the kitchen, a responsible purchasing poli-
cy is followed where mostly locally products are used to
support the local industry and avoid unnecessary CO2
emissions through transportation. Additionally energy
conservation practices are applied in the daily opera-
tion in all work areas of the Resort.
The Resort has an official Environmental Policy that
is communicated to all the guests. The Green Team,
with representatives of all departments is meeting ev-
ery month to follow up on action plans and ideas and
to set new goals to continuously improve the environ-
mental performance. Last month the Green Team has
organized an outing visiting the Recycling plant of El
Gouna. El Gouna in its leading efforts of eco friendli-
ness is showing a remarkable achievement contribut-
ing to sustainable tourism. At the waste recycling plant
in the nearby desert, 97% of all waste coming from El
Gouna hotels and community is being recycled. Over
160 employees collect, separate and process the waste
of El Gouna with the goal of zero landfill. Paper, glass,
metal are pressed and sent to large recycling facto-
ries in Cairo. Organic waste is fed to the town’s farm
animals and processed in the compost fields. Plastic
is shredded and manufactured to plastic hangers and
garbage bags.
Travel World Magazine
Michael Ibrahim appointed
Director of F & B at Inter-
Continental Cairo CityStars
T
hierry Perrot Direc-
tor of Operations IHG
Egypt & Libya and Gen-
eral Manager InterCon-
tinental Cairo CityStars
recently announced the
appointment of Michael
Ibrahim in the position of
Director of Food & Bever-
age for InterContinental
Cairo CityStars.
Michael is hospitality pro-
fessional with over 20 years of broad-based man-
agement experience in hotel, resort, casino, cruise
ship, and airline in-flight service operations, both in
domestic and international sectors. From the start
of his career, Michael’s passion for the hospitality
industry became ingrained into his personality and
demeanor.
He brings with him an international experience in
the U.S., Europe, Middle East, Asia, and the Carib-
bean, his track record includes Executive Operating
Committee management roles as Director of Food
and Beverage, Director of Operations, Assistant
General Manager and Executive Assistant Manager
in premier organizations including Ritz–Carlton,
Marriott, Hyatt, Accor, Caesars Entertainment, and
Royal Caribbean.
Michael holds a Master’s degree in Business Ad-
ministration (MBA) and is a certified training profes-
sional in public health/food hygiene and food safety
administration. He hails from Chicago, U.S.A., and
is looking forward to this new position as well as im-
plementing the company’s new strategies.
12 Travel World Magazine NEWS 13

Garannah in his European Tour:

The impact of World Financial
Crisis on Tourism is still uncertain
D uring the events of the FITUR exhibition, HE Zoheir Garannah Egypt’s Min-
ister of Tourism presided the crises committee of the International Travel As-
sociation which chose Garannah lately to be its president. The congress of the com-
mittee was a good opportunity for the Minister to display Egypt’s efforts in facing
the crisis; furthermore, Egypt’s presidency of the committee is a great chance to
cope and follow up with the world’s latest efforts to face the crisis and interact with
these efforts.
Mr. Garannah ended his European tour, which included Germany, Austria, France
and Slovakia, in the Spanish capital Madrid. To rap up his tour, the Minister re-
vealed that ambiguity still encircles the expected effect of the world financial crisis
on tourism. Although everyone admitted the decrease in new tourist reservations,
no one said that the decrease means the total collapse of world tourism.

Sheraton Montazah is the “Best in Class”

I n the survey named” Star Voice”

yearly conducted by Starwood for
Hotels & Resorts amongst its 145000
employees all over the world. Shera-
ton Montazah employees voted the
highest scores of employees’ satis-
faction in regards to work environ-
ment, career growth opportunities,
supervisory efficiency & treatment,
salary and wages, etc.
“Star Voice” survey results for year
2008 was behind Sheraton Mon-
tazah merit for the “Best in Class
Award” for the forth year consecu-
tively.
It’s worth mentioning that 22 su-
pervisors and managers in the hotel
were particularly nominated as best
in class together with Atef Wilson
General Manager of the Hotel who
obtained the best in class leader for
2008.

Further Baron Hotels & Resorts Expansions

B aron Hotels & Resorts Egypt, a leading Egyp-

tian hotel management company with three
properties in different renowned locations in Egypt,
recently announced its remarkable development
plans for 2009.
Baron Resort Sharm El Sheikh, already known
with its unique beach front location offering com-
fort in accommodation, abundance in facilities and
excellence in hospitality, as well as its momentous conference and meeting services,
has been witnessing total soft renovations since the beginning of 2009. The Hotel
Group scheduled to renovate and refurbish the lobby area, all its 360 well appointed
rooms including suites and royal suites, in addition to its premium, world-class cui-
sine restaurants and bars. Catering for leisure and business travelers, the Baron
Resort Sharm El Sheikh is a haven for serenity.
Another development for the Group is the opening of the new “A Luxury beyond
Luxury” Baron Palace Resort Sahl Hasheesh, set 17 kilometers away from Hurgada
International Airport. The resort features 700 luxurious rooms, suites and royal
suites and an array of exclusive restaurants and bars offering sumptuous delights
and exquiste leisure facilities. The Baron Palace Resort Sahl Hasheesh features one
of the best conference facilities in the region which is believed to be an International
mark in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE) Market.
Scheduled to open at the end of 2009, the Resort will mark a new era of ultimate
luxury. The Baron Palace Resort Sahl Hasheesh is the first step in a series of new
projects in the area to be announced throughout the next three years.

March 2009 ITB - Berlin

 Travel World Magazine Travel World Magazine RESORTS 15
10 RESORTS

JW Marriott Cairo .... The Perfect Combination

W hen it comes to mixing business with pleasure,
no hotel achieves this perfect combination better
than the JW Marriott Hotel Cairo. This stunning 400-
acre venue located in the prestigious Heliopolis district
and only 15 minutes away from the Cairo International
airport, is fully geared up for business, meetings and
incentives, as well as the extensive recreational facili-
ties, creating the ultimate environment for strategic
business.
This five start deluxe hotel offers stunning views of ei-
ther the 27-hole championship golf course or the beach
and swimming pool complex which are seen from the
428 deluxe rooms and suites.
After a hard day’s business, the JW Marriott Cairo
provides a welcoming haven with first class recreation-
al facilities in calm and relaxing surroundings.
The resort has its own 18-hole championship golf
course and 9 – hole Executive Course with lots of
streams and lakes that makes your game more chal-
lenging.
In addition to Cairo’s only themed water park, “The
Beach”, featuring wave pool, kids fun house and wa-
terslides.
Not only so, but newly opened our Kids’ Club, Dream
Ship, that offers an unforgettable experience to your
kids watching them playing with bumper cars, play
stations and arcade games.
And why not, treat yourself to a massage or a com-
plete make over, in the Spa, Mandara, where we can sine.
guarantee that upon experiencing our 30 spa treat- The JW Marriott name is the premium brand of Mar-
ments, you will feel radiant and revitalized. riott Hotels International and only flagship hotels are
And if you are looking for a worthwhile morale boost- awarded this prestigious title. This hotel, is setting new
ing, then our Health Center is your perfect choice fea- standards for this premium deluxe brand with its ele-
turing extensive gym, Indoor Pool, Climbing Wall, Jog- gant surroundings, exceptional business and leisure fa-
ging Track, Sauna, Steam and Jacuzzi. cilities and service levels that are beyond expectations.
With more than 12 restaurants and bars to choose For a truly unique experience in one of the Middle
from, guests at the JW Marriott Cairo are literally East’s most exciting cities, it’s time to check in to the
spoilt for choice when it comes to top international cui- JW Marriott Hotel - Cairo’s only ‘Corporate Resort.

Holiday Inn Cairo CityStars Egypt’s 3rd International Fair

Embraces environment preservation for Boats, Yachts and Water
Sports
S ponsored by the Ministry of Tourism, Egypt’s 3rd
International Fair for Boats, Yachts and Require-
ments of Sailing and Water Sports, which is consid-
ered the biggest of its kind in Egypt and Africa, was
held from 19-22 Feb 2009 at the Cairo Conference
Center.
This year’s fair witnessed the participation of many
of the biggest and most famous international compa-
nies and trade marks in the field of boats, yachts and
their requirements in addition to the local manufac-
turers. This was a clear proof of the growing impor-
tance of this fair in its field.

Staff Promotion in Maritime

Joli Ville Hotel & Resort Naa-
ma Bay – Sharm El Sheikh
A zza Aziz General Manager of Maritime Joli Ville
Naama Bay Hotel, Resort & Casino – Sharm El

I n an initiative to take part in community services, Holiday Inn Cairo Citystars decided to come up and imple- Sheikh, issued a decree to promote each of: Moham-
ment ideas that the hotel could embrace in order to help preserve the environment. mad Kamel to be the General Manager’s Assistant
One of the main ideas; was to organize an environmental cleaning day at the Pyramids, where the hotel manage- for the Financial Sector, Hatem Wanees to be the
ment and staff participated in cleaning the area for a whole day. General Manager’s Assistant for Rooms Sector and
The environmental cleaning day was an attempt of sharing environmental responsibility between the public Yasser Anwar to be the Financial Manager of the ho-
and private sectors for the whole country and to promote the culture of environmental friendly solutions to hotel tel. These promotions were based upon the vast expe-
employees. rience and sincere dedication each of these gentlemen
Photo shows / Jean Martin Fleisch General Manager of Holiday Inn Cairo CityStars with the hotel team acquires.
March 2009 ITB - Berlin

16 INTERNATIONAL
New IMEX Meetings
Under the Microscope
Ray Bloom - Chairman
I
nternational meetings industry exhibition, IMEX, is
launching a new campaign to help planners deliver
more effective meetings and events, and so generate
greater return on their investment.
“Meetings Under the Microscope” will initially com-
prise a series of 10 workshops, each designed to give visi-
tors a fast-track understanding of current meetings best
practice and measurement plus an introduction to the
EMIRATES AIRLINE AND MTPA HOLD JOINT ROAD-SHOWS IN
KEY MIDDLE EAST MARKETS TO PROMOTE MAURITIUS
E mirates Airline and the Mauritius Tourism Promo-
tion Authority (MTPA) have joined forces to pro-
mote the Republic of Mauritius in four key cities across
the Middle East over one week, with the road show taking
place in Jeddah. The Middle East road show is part of a
long term campaign to promote the Republic of Mauritius
as an exciting and unique holiday destination. Kicking off
in Kuwait on the 1st March, the road show then travelled
to Riyadh before arriving in Jeddah today. The final stop
will be Dubai on 5th March. The four cities have been
carefully selected by Emirates and the MTPA due to their
strong potential for travel.
Targeted primarily at the travel trade, each of the road
shows will involve presentations by key Mauritian dele-
gates, highlighting the idyllic islands key attractions; from
pristine beaches to untouched mountains and world-class
behavioural science behind meetings planning. Work-
shops will address topics such as meetings content and
whole audience engagement; managing emotional states
and the psychology of learning; meetings environments
plus communications and preparation management.
The line-up of expert presenters includes Maarten Van-
neste, author of “Meeting Architecture, A Manifesto”;
Holger Scholz, IAF Certified Professional Facilitator and
Jon Bradshaw, Human Performance Consultant, found-
er of Equinox Motivation and IMEX Sales Manager.
All participants will have the option to attend a final,
extended teaching session when they will receive addi-
tional, free support materials including case studies and
a comprehensive electronic handbook - in effect a Meet-
ings Under the Microscope Diploma Pack. All sessions
will be provided free of charge and take place on IMEX’s
new and dedicated Professional Development and Inno-
vation Pavilion, sponsored by the Convention Industry
Council.
Says Jon Bradshaw, “Now, more than ever, it is vital
for organisations investing in meetings to feel confident
their efforts will produce tangible benefits for months,
if not years, to come. Although there may be growing
pressure on budgets, if anything expectations - and the
need for results - are higher than ever. The better plan-
ners become at proving the true, long-term value of
meetings, the more they will be able to influence budgets,
strategy and senior internal stakeholders for the good
of the business or organisation they work for. Our new
Meetings Under the Microscope initiative will make sure
that organisers are not overlooking the heartbeat of their
events.” This year visitors to IMEX will have a choice of
the largest and most comprehensive number of seminars
and workshops with more than 70 educational sessions,
19 of them in German.
hotels and resorts, Mauritius offers something for even
the most discerning travellers.
Honourable Xavier-Luc Duval, Vice-Prime Minister,
Minister of Tourism and Leisure and External Commu-
nications said: “The Middle-East is to be considered as
a market which is geographically close to the Mauritian
destination. Mauritius is well served by Emirates Airline
throughout the year. A special terminal at Sir Seewoosa-
gur International Airport is dedicated to private jets.
“The Middle-East is a prosperous market and Mauritius
already welcomes numerous Arab families who come on
vacation in the island. The Mauritian destination is also
open to the expatriate community, residing in the big cities
of the Middle-East who have a high purchasing power.
“The Mauritian tourist product is in line with what this
clientele is looking for. We offer a warm welcome, secu-
Travel World Magazine Travel World Magazine INTERNATIONAL 17
QATAR AIRWAYS TAKES
ECONOMY SERVICE
TO NEW HEIGHTS
J eddah, Saudi Arabia – Qatar Airways has launched
an innovative Economy Class inflight-service on all
flights operating to and from the UK. The revamped
concept, which sees all onboard meals served in a new
presentation style using recyclable materials, is aimed
at enhancing passengers’ overall flying experience.
It is a well-documented fact that the way in which
food is presented influences not only whether it is en-
joyed but also the way it tastes. The new-look colour-
ful meal tray components offer passengers in Economy
a whole new take on food presentation that will take
them on a wonderful culinary journey.
With see through trays, bright meal cartons and cut-
lery packs, as well as a personal table mat in a variety
of different colours, Qatar Airways envisages onboard
mealtimes being extremely well-received due to the at-
tractive new style in which the food is set.
Given the environmental issues and concerns that
are paramount in the travel industry today, the Five
Star Carrier’s new light-weight trays and the dispos-
able mugs and boxes are 99% recyclable, offering a
more eco-friendly way to serve inflight meals than
most airlines.
rity, luxurious hotels, food which is adapted to the Arab
clientele and we are only a few hours away by air from the
main cities of the Middle-East.”
The Mauritian government delegation will be headed
by Honourable Xavier-Luc Duval, Vice-Prime Minister,
Minister of Tourism and External Communications and
Dr Karl Mootoosamy, Director of the MTPA, amongst
others. A number of representatives from local Mauri-
tian hotels and tour operators will also be part of the road
show. Emirates will be represented by Badr Abbas, Emir-
ates Regional Manager - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and
Dina Al Herais – VP Commercial Operations – Emirates
Holidays.
Commenting on the road shows, Badr Abbas said:
“Emirates has always played a catalytic role in developing
the tourism links between Dubai and the destinations that
it serves. By organising these road-shows, Emirates has
taken one more significant step in its endeavour to pro-
mote Mauritius as a luxurious destination.”
“Emirates is a strong advocate for Mauritius and
throughout the years we have worked in association with
the MTPA to help raise awareness of the incredible facili-
ties the destination has to offer. Campaigns have taken the
form of road-shows, press trips, travel agent familiarisa-
tion trips as well as special features in Emirates in-flight
magazine. These actions have resulted in creating and sus-
taining the visibility of the destination in new and emerg-
ing markets, more particularly the Middle-East and East
European countries.”
“Mauritius offers unbeatable value to tourists ready
for a truly unforgettable holiday. There’s no better time
than now to take advantage of the many attractions of this
paradise island.” Emirates Holidays, the tour operating
arm of Emirates Airline, has strongly marketed Mauritius
through its ‘World of Choice’ brochure which proposes
flexible, affordable and high-value holiday packages to all
types of travellers including families, honeymooners and
up-market travellers.
March 2009 ITB - Berlin May 2008 ATM - Dubai
18 LAST PAGE Travel World Magazine

Austrian and central european travel business 2009

From the publisher ...
Catalyst and inspiration for Austrian tourism

H ere is a good idea coming from

the Far East, exactly from In-
donesia where they decided to planet
a total of 79.1 million trees during
the National Movement to Plant 100
Million Trees in 2008.
According to data up to Decem- Stands and booths and visitors from around the world. Dr. Petra Stolba, CEO of the Austrian National Tourist, Mr. Stuart Freeman, moderator

ber 23, 2008, some 79.1 million trees

were planted, Forestry Minister MS
Kaban said during a 500-tree plant-
ing event with noted poet WS Ren-
dra.
To support the national tree plant-
ing movement, the forestry ministry
had provided two million saplings to
each province, according to the min-
ister. The trees were planted mainly
in arid areas and idle lands, he said.
First Lady Ani Yudhoyono launched
a tree planting movement for women
at Ancol Ocean Park, in northern
Jakarta.
The theme of the 2008 tree planting Mrs. Dr. Petra Stolba, Mr. Josef Margreiter, CEO of the Tirol Werbung, the Tirol Tourism.

M
Austrian traditions During the events.

movement was “The food resilience
of family” to encourage the people to
plant fruit-bearing and edible trees.
President Susilo Bambang Yudhoy-
ono launched the Indonesian Tree
Planting Day 2008 on November 28,
2008.
First Lady Kristiani Herrawati
Bambang Yudhoyono won a Unit-
ed Nations Environment Program
(UNEP) award for her efforts in
encouraging Indonesian women to
plant millions of trees simultaneous-
ly across the country in 2007.
No doubt that this kind ideas are
very important for the developments
countries and we in Egypt has to
think in such ideas which could be
very useful in the national income.
EmanShaaban
arketplace, rendezvous for the tourism industry, and
catalyst all rolled into one, that is the austrian and cen-
tral european business (actb), the specialized trade fair for the
Austrian and central European incoming travel industry that
took place this year at Messe Wien.
The actb with its expanded, international focus was launched
two years ago; in its third year the fair again includes as ex-
hibitors regional partner countries – the Czech Republic,
Hungary, Slovakia, and Slovenia. The participation of the
Danube Tourist Commission and its members - Germany,
Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, and
Moldova - further enhances the attraction of the actb as an
international event.
“Our vision is to position actb more distinctly as a sales plat-
form. A top trade fair is where ideal partners meet. So we are
working to bring together more hotels on the supply side, and,
on the demand side, more new buyers”, explains Petra Stolba,
the Austrian National Tourist Office’s CEO.
At this year’s actb 563 firms had presented their products
and services at 327 stands to 763 buyers from some 65 coun-
tries around the world, as well as 204 representatives from
the international media. Hotels, incoming travel agencies, and
destinations make up the lion’s share of exhibitors. 29 exhibi-
tors from the Danube region also promoted their offers to fair
visitors.
Center stage at the actb were the two high points on Austria’s
2009 cultural calendar: Linz, this year’s European Capital of
Culture, and “Haydn 2009” marking the two hundredth an-
niversary of the death of the towering master of the Viennese
classic.
An actb preconvention tour to Linz and Upper Austria gave
participants a taste of the year ahead not only in the Euro-
pean Capital of Culture itself, but also in the romantic town
of Steyr, as well as Schlierbach monastery, which from April
through October hosts this year’s Upper Austrian Provincial
Exhibition on the cultural history of food.
Messe Wien was the venue for the actb this year for the last
time. Starting next year in 2010, the actb will take place at
Vienna’s Austria Center.
The Austrian National Tourist Office, in cooperation with its
tourism industry partners, has once again organized a diverse
program of social events for relaxation, entertainment and
fun.
The event transported participants on a fascinating tour
through Austria both traditional and modern. With the help
of a visual installation Hall A turned into a three-dimensional
nature adventure world. Stilt-walkers clad in made-to-mea-
sure traditional clothing by Schneiders welcomed the guests.
The highlight of the evening was a special performance on the
fascination spheres “nature and culture” featuring Monika
Ballwein, Celine Roschek and numerous dancers and acro-
bats in costumes by Schneiders.

T R AV E L W O R L D M A G A Z I N E
The Egyptian Travel Magazine since 1990
Publisher: Eman Shaaban Chief Editor: Abouelwafa Badour
Head office: Travel World Publications - Patric’s Team P.O. Box 1462 CH-1820 Montreux 1 switzerland Tel. +41 21 963 27 47 Fax: +41 21 963 27 48 a.badour@yahoo.com
Cairo office: 7 Abdalla Taher st. Nasr City, Cairo - Egypt Tel. & Fax: +202 274 35 13 & +202 6715 794
Saudi Arabia: P.O. Box 118799 Jeddah 21312 Saudi Arabia
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E.mail: travelworld@bluewin.ch