Emirates and Virgin America Partner to Offer Enhanced Connections to West Coast Gateways

LOS ANGELES, Calif. – December 14, 2010 – Emirates, the Dubai-based international carrier, now offers U.S. travelers the option to book flights with connecting service on Virgin America, making travel easier and more convenient with one seamless itinerary.

From Los Angeles, passengers can now book a connecting flight on Virgin America to Boston, Dallas Fort Worth, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Washington DC and Toronto. Emirates’ San Francisco service now connects to Virgin America destinations including Boston, Dallas Fort Worth, Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, Orlando, San Diego, Seattle, Washington DC and Toronto.

The frequency of both Emirates and Virgin America flights mean a shorter stop-over time for passengers continuing on to Dubai, while the increased connections make traveling to the Middle East hub more accessible throughout the U.S.

“Our new agreement with Virgin America will bring our American West Coast gateways within easier reach of dozens of U.S. cities, making travel more convenient for customers travelling to or from the Middle East and beyond,” said Nigel Page, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations for Americas and Africa. “This partnership is a further demonstration of our commitment to the United States and we will continue to look for new opportunities to enhance our service provision moving forwards.”

“We’re pleased to partner with an airline also known for offering travelers a world-class flying experience – with a focus on upscale amenities and outstanding service,” said Adam Green, Director of Network Planning at Virgin America. “We hope this new agreement will offer guests a more seamless travel experience on two airlines known for the quality of their service.”

Emirates currently flies twice daily from Los Angeles, Houston and New York City, and daily from San Francisco non-stop to Dubai. In addition to award-winning onboard service, multi-course meals and 1,200 channels of on-demand entertainment, Emirates passengers in transit at Dubai International Airport can enjoy state-of-the-art facilities at Terminal 3, dedicated exclusively to the international carrier. An Emirates lounge is set to debut at San Francisco International Terminal in February 2011.

Bookings may be made on Emirates tickets only and can be purchased through www.emirates.com, Emirates call centers, partner travel agencies and other online travel agencies.


About Emirates: Emirates currently serves 109 cities around the globe with a young and technologically advanced fleet of 153 wide-bodied aircraft that are equipped with industry-leading comforts in the air. Additionally, Emirates has 200 wide-bodied aircraft on order, worth over US$68 billion, and is the leading customer of the Airbus A380 with 15 in its fleet and 75 on order, powered by Engine Alliance GP7200 engines. Fast Company Magazine recently picked the airline as one of the 50 “Most Innovative Companies” in the world and Emirates was also awarded the “World’s Best Airline Inflight Entertainment” for the sixth year at the 2010 Skytrax World Airline Awards. Operations on Emirates from New York, Houston, Los Angeles and San Francisco connect America to the world through the airline’s route network with extensive connections from Dubai to the Far East, Australia and Africa. For more information, visit www.emirates.com/usa


About Virgin America: Headquartered in California and launched in August 2007, Virgin America offers guests attractive fares and a host of innovative features aimed at reinventing air travel, including in-flight internet service on every flight and the most advanced touch-screen entertainment platform in the skies. The airline’s base of operations is San Francisco International Airport. In just three years flying, Virgin America has created 1,700 new jobs and has swept the major reader-based travel awards, including “Best Domestic Airline” in the Condé Nast Traveler 2008, 2009 and 2010 Readers’ Choice Awards and “Best Domestic Airline” in Travel + Leisure’s 2008, 2009 and 2010 World’s Best Awards. For photos and more, visit: http://www.virginamerica.com/

QR Codes helping hotels track advertising effectiveness

In a modern twist to advertising, forward-thinking Dusit International has introduced a smart phone app



that will give readers instant access to more information about the hotel offers they see in the group's



latest advertising campaign and the company's collateral.



The application enables customers to scan Quick Response (QR) codes assigned to ads in magazines and



newspapers. This will allow Dusit International to track interaction with its advertising, to determine the



effectiveness of each medium.



"Today's traveller want their information faster, and are increasingly relying on mobile technologies,



especially smart phones, to bring it to them" said Sam-Erik Ruttmann, Dusit International regional



vice president Middle East. "Hotels cannot ignore the power of mobile technology, as people will use



mobiles more and more to communicate with hotels in the area they need"



QR codes are so called for they offer a "Quick Response" for readers with mobile phones and



membrane-enabled smart phones. All that is needed is for the user to download the QR app on the



smart phone and take a scan of the QR-Code. Code software decoder then transforms the data held



within the QR-Code to a meaningful action for the mobile phone, such as connecting to a website or



bringing up an email address for immediate response.



"QR codes are becoming increasingly attractive to the hospitality industry because they function as a



powerful form of information exchange. Ads are used more actively by users both online and offline,



allowing us to track the interaction and effectiveness of each ad campaign" said Ruttmann.





This initiative has been launched by the Dusit International corporate office and the new ads with the



QR-Codes are already appearing in publications in the Middle East, as well as UK, Europe and Asia


Dusit International has gained more than 60 years experience in the hotel and hospitality field. Founded in 1948 by

Honorary Chairperson, Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui, whose first hotel was the Princess on Bangkok's New Road; Dusit has since

acquired a unique portfolio of deluxe hotels, building upon Thai culture and tradition to create a personalised welcome for all guests,

made distinctive under the Dusit brand promise: the delivery of an ‘experience that enlivens the individual spirit no matter what the

journey.’



Dusit International comprises five hotel brands: Dusit Thani Hotels & Resorts, Dusit’s second generation dusitD2 hotels & resorts,

Dusit Princess Hotels & Resorts, Dusit Devarana Hotels & Resorts, and Dusit Residence Serviced Apartments. It also operates its

own signature Devarana Spa.



THAILAND:



Dusit Thani Hotels & Resorts:



dusitD2 hotels & resorts:



Dusit Princess Hotels & Resorts:



Dusit Thani Bangkok

Dusit Thani Hua Hin

Dusit Thani Pattaya

Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket

Dusit Island Resort Chiang Rai

Chatrium Suites Bangkok, A Dusit Thani Hotels Partner



dusitD2 chiang mai

dusitD2 baraquda pattaya

B-Lay Tong Resort, Phuket - managed by dusitD2 hotels & resorts



Dusit Princess Srinakarin, Bangkok

Dusit Princess Koh Chang

Dusit Princess Korat

Royal Princess Larn Luang, Bangkok

Royal Princess Chiang Mai

Pathumwan Princess, MBK Centre, Bangkok

Bel-Aire Princess, Sukhumvit, Bangkok

Grand China Princess, Chinatown, Bangkok



OUTSIDE THAILAND:



Philippines:



United Arab Emirates:



Dusit Thani LakeView Cairo



Dusit Thani Manila



Dusit Thani Dubai

Dusit Princess City Centre, Dubai

Dusit Residence Dubai Marina

Pearl Coast Premier Hotel Apartments, Dubai



Corporate PR & Communications Department

The Dusit Thani Building, 946 Rama IV Road, Bangkok 10500, Thailand

Tel: +66 (0) 2200 9999 l Fax: +66 (0) 2636 3547



OPENING SOON:



Saudi Arabia:



United Arab Emirates:



Dusit Thani Dilmunia Bahrain



Dusit Thani Sanya



Dusit Devarana New Delhi

Dusit Devarana Jaipur

Dusit Devarana Rishikesh

Dusit Thani Goa

dusitD2 new delhi



Dusit Thani Jeddah



Dusit Devarana Resort - Phang Nga



Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi

Al Jaber Aviation and Airbus Showcase the New A318 Elite Plus at MEBA 2010

Target segment includes heads of states, rulers and VIPs; A318 Elite Plus aircraft boasts long haul travel and cargo capabilities

Dubai – December 8^th, 2010: The Al Jaber Aviation (AJA) A318 Elite plus aircraft is on display as the ideal design model for corporate jets by Airbus, an EADS company and leading aircraft manufacturer at the ongoing Middle East Business Aviation (MEBA) 2010 event in Dubai. AJA, the new pinnacle of VIP aviation and part of the Al Jaber Group based in Abu Dhabi will showcase the elegant and comfortable ergonomic cabins of the Airbus 318 that have been designed to accommodate up to 19 passengers and two crew members.

With long haul capability, the A318 Elite plus will be able to cater to requirements from Heads of States, Rulers, VIPs and those who wish to fly in comfort to far destinations. The A318 aircraft is a more viable option than traditional business jets as it can fly larger groups making it ideal for big companies and government delegations. This is further supported by the aircraft offering cargo capability.

“The Middle East is a growing market for business jets and is set to expand 15-20 percent per annum over the next four years to become a US$1 billion-per-year industry[i]. We are looking to secure a slice of this lucrative segment and our aircraft are ready to cater to this growth,” said Mohammed Al Jaber, CEO of AJA. 

The Airbus 318 Elite plus is the newest Airbus Corporate Jet, and features a stylish and practical single-aisle cabin created by Lufthansa Technik. All equipment and seats have been designed to be very simple to use, and to offer the most comfort and generous storage in a VIP charter aircraft.

The A318 aircraft boasts mood-lighting system, new touch-screen technology, and advanced passenger entertainment and communications – including a PFIS (Passenger Flight Information System), Internet and audio and video on-demand. The cabin cross-section is almost twice as wide as that of traditional business jets. The benefits to customers include robust long-lasting airframe and reliable systems and an advanced aerodynamic design powered by modern and efficient engines.

About Al Jaber Aviation:

Al Jaber Aviation (AJA) is the new pinnacle of VIP aviation based in Abu Dhabi.  AJA is part of the Al Jaber Group, the nation’s largest employer with a workforce of 55,000 and the country’s largest fleet of shipping vessels and machinery. With an elite fleet of Airbus and Embraer jets, AJA is committed to providing the right aircraft with leading edge of technology combined with style and quality. The Airbus fleet consists of Corporate Jetliners and Elite aircraft that can reach across Europe, Africa and Asia within the luxurious surroundings of a private cabin. For more information, log on to www.ajaprivatejets.com

ARAB TRAVELLERS FLOCK TO SRI LANKA AS M.E. TOURIST ARRIVALS SURGE BY 58% IN TEN MONTHS; “Sri Lanka emerging as a tourism hotspot” - Ms Al Mansoori

Arab travellers to Sri Lanka increased by 58% in the first ten months of the year according to Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau’s (SLTPB) Middle East office. Statistics compiled by Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority indicate that the growth from the Middle East is higher than the overall growth in arrivals to Sri Lanka which is pegged at 43.5%

“Sri Lanka is witnessing a dramatic rise in visitors which in turn has enabled vast development of Sri Lanka's existing tourism infrastructure with new hotels and better road networks currently underway island-wide to cope with the destinations increasing popularity,” remarked Ms Heba Al Mansoori, Middle East Director of SLTPB.

Ms Al Mansoori noted that several hotel giants are undertaking expansion, refurbishment and major re-development plans in order to meet increased demand for hotel rooms. “All this will help accommodate the exponential increase in tourist arrivals.”

Several development projects in the East are currently underway which was previously inaccessible. Three areas which are of focus are Pasikudah, Kucheveli and Kalpitiya. Many hotel projects are in progress and by the year 2011/2012 we hope to have added 1,000 rooms.

In addition other development is also in progress in the rest of the island. We just opened the new Port in the South of the country and a new Airport will be soon opened as well in the South. 

SLTPB opened its office in Dubai in May 2008 to maximize the opportunities emerging throughout the Middle East while strengthening support for the travel trade in the region.

Since the opening, the Dubai office has co-ordinated all of Sri Lanka’s tourism promotional activities in the Arab markets including exhibition participation, marketing visits, presentations and road shows, brochure distribution, public relations, as well as familiarization visits to the island for influential business and travel journalists. The office also functions as the preliminary contact point and enquiry processing centre for travel trade companies and tourists in the region.

Sri Lanka is now on the threshold of developing to its full potential as a prime tourism destination with diverse offerings for members of the whole family whether it is beaches, shopping, visits to wildlife reserves, heritage and culture sites, relaxing at a spa, or simply enjoying the cuisine.

Skies More Open Than Ever; 10 more liberalised aviation agreements for Emirates in 2010 to pass 60 deal milestone

DUBAI, UAE - 8 December 2010- The UAE, Dubai and Emirates Airline have now secured over 60 open or highly liberal aviation agreements, following further recent liberalisation success in Latin America, Africa and Europe.

The 60th and 61st agreements, with Brazil and Panama, the latter concluded last month, are the latest negotiations in 2010 that allow carriers of each partner country to offer largely open services between each market.

It follows eight other open deals successfully concluded during the course of this year.
The US, UK, Spain, Thailand, Singapore, Switzerland, Malaysia, Chile, New Zealand and Lebanon are among the 60 countries that have signed highly liberal or completely open agreements with the UAE and Dubai.

The UAE, through the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has a policy of open skies and its aviation market is one of the world's most open and competitive. Dubai in particular is one of the true pioneers of aviation liberalisation having adopted an open skies policy as one of the cornerstones of its economy long before Emirates was established in 1985.

"Open skies secured by the UAE and Dubai Civil Aviation Authorities with key economies now represent the majority of Emirates Airline's air services access worldwide, with an average of six new open or liberalised deals now being signed a year," the President of Emirates, Tim Clark said.

"The world, often led by emerging markets, is liberalising faster than many believed possible. This is good news for consumers, traders, exporters and travellers generally," he said.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has indicated liberalising 320 of the world's bilateral aviation agreements would create 24.1 million jobs and generate an additional $US490 billion in world GDP.

The UAE's new open agreements signed in 2010 recognises that unrestricted access to Dubai, one of the world's largest and fastest-growing hubs, allows carriers of the world to grow their services in the prosperous Middle East and Gulf region and also boost exports and trade to their own markets thanks to existing or future Emirates services.

The recent deal with Brazil now means the two countries' aviation policies are even more closely aligned and will deliver further benefits to both economies through increased tourism, exports and trade. In 2010 traffic between the Dubai and Sao Paulo will exceed 170,000 passengers.

Albano Franco, a Member of Brazil’s Parliament and a former President of the Commission of Tourism of the Chamber of Deputies, Governor of the State of Sergipe and President of the Brazilian Confederation of the Industries, said: “The new agreement between Brazil and the UAE is a strong example of what is being achieved - since Emirates commenced services to Sao Paulo, the trade relationship with the UAE has grown to US$6.3 billion and is now the largest partner in the region".

In 2010, Emirates has carried over 9,000 tonnes of high-valued Brazilian exports including auto parts, machinery as well as temperature and time sensitive agricultural exports to the UAE and beyond. Emirates commenced Dubai-Sao Paulo services in 2007.

Economic analysis by InterVISTAS on Brazil’s 2007 traffic found their liberalised aviation policy had boosted Brazil’s 2007 passenger traffic by 47%, boosting GDP by US$10.5 billion and created 242,000 jobs.

"The connectivity, economic, tourism and trade benefits are clear. Open skies improves consumer choice, enhances productivity and creates real, high-quality job opportunities," Mr Clark said.

"There are some pockets of resistance, but these are a shrinking minority compared to those economies choosing the liberalisation option. Aeropolitical protection is an artificial handbrake on economic growth and the world is increasingly wise to this outdated way of thinking. Emirates, Dubai and the UAE will continue to promote real open skies with any willing aviation partner."

“With the full support of Emirates, the UAE's GCAA and Dubai's DCAA have been successfully pursuing and securing open and liberalised deals with many like-minded countries. The UAE is also a signatory to IATA’s Agenda for Freedom framework which is another example of how slowly but surely the international aviation landscape is being changed,” Mr Clark said.

Emirates Wins Top Marketing Award

DUBAI, U.A.E - 30 November 2010 – Emirates has received industry recognition in the recent 2010 GEMAS Effie (Gulf Marketing Review Effectiveness in Marketing Awards) MENA Awards.



Boutros Boutros, Emirates’ Divisional Senior Vice President Corporate Communications was awarded the coveted GEMAS Marketer of the Year. Boutros was selected by a 15-strong panel comprising regional and international marketing experts. The prestigious award recognises the positive impact that sustained marketing exposure along with an excellent product can have on a brand.



“The Corporate Communications department under the hands-on management of Boutros has done an excellent job of conveying the Emirates message to our consumers. Communicating with our customers and partners has been pivotal to our success and we have spared no expense in ensuring our message meets the right people at the right time. Boutros abundantly merits this important award,” said Sir Maurice Flanagan, Executive Vice Chairman, Emirates Airline and Group.



Emirates employs a full range of classic and contemporary elements in its communications mix to ensure it stays ahead of the game in a very competitive environment.



“Emirates is a powerful symbol of how intelligent communication practices can transform a local brand into an international powerhouse,” said Boutros Boutros. “We have an incredibly robust Corporate Communications department which has been massively successful in promoting the Emirates business through a cohesive strategy covering public relations, sponsorships, events, advertising, merchandise, internal communications and web initiatives. This award represents the dedication and enthusiasm of the entire Corporate Communications team in making Emirates the world renowned brand that it is today.”



“Keeping a brand relevant and fresh can be difficult but Emirates products speak for themselves. We have a young and modern fleet of aircraft, fitted with the industries best products, as well as a dynamic staff who have helped make Emirates the global icon that it is today,” added Boutros.



The airline has always been at the forefront of communications and is adept in growing its communications strategy alongside a consistently expanding international brand. Now operating to 109 destinations Emirates has worked hard to ensure its brand is easily identifiable wherever it flies to. Such initiatives include global sports sponsorships. Today the airline is linked to some of the world’s leading sport events, spread across the six continents that Emirates flies non-stop to from Dubai.



As part of its international exposure Emirates has also played an active role in promoting Dubai as an international destination for sport, business and tourism.



The GEMAS effie Mena Awards were launched to recognize, educate and encourage effectiveness among the marketing communications industry across the Middle East.



About the GEMAS Marketer of the Year Award

The GEMAS Marketer of the Year is awarded to individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the marketing function and raised the standard of marketing within the organisation. The person is someone who, through innovation, strategy and communications excellence, has made a positive impact on the market place, evidenced through clearly quantifiable post-campaign evaluation. It is someone who, in the opinion of the judg¬es, has made a significant contribution to raising the standard of marketing in the Middle East.

Emirates to Launch Services to Basra from 2 February 2011

DUBAI, U.A.E - 29 November 2010 – Emirates will launch services to Basra, Iraq from 2nd February next year.

 
Basra will be Emirates’110th international destination and the sixth to launch in the 2010-2011 financial year. The service will operate four times a week each Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, subject to Government approval. The flight will be operated by an Airbus A330, in a three class configuration, First Class, Business Class and Economy Class on Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday and in a two class configuration, Business Class and Economy Class, on Mondays.
 
“Basra is a significant market for Emirates. The city’s recent growth has paved the way for numerous multinational companies and industries to invest in infrastructure and we have seen strong potential from a number of our markets,” said His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group. “Since the 2009 oil field bid, traffic from the US and Europe into Basra has increased significantly and we are ready to capitalise on this growth.”
 
“Our convenient flight times and good connections make Emirates an excellent choice for corporate travellers to Basra,” added Sheikh Ahmed. “It has been a strong year of growth for Emirates and this announcement is further proof of our robust expansion plans.”
 
Well positioned, close to the oil fields and the Gulf, Basra continues to attract investments from major corporations around the globe. Key inbound markets for Emirates will include, oil and petroleum companies from the US and Europe, as well as Iraqi diaspora.
 
Outbound traffic from Basra will be skewed towards local Iraqis. As the economy recovers and rebuilds, a large segment of the local population are expected to make use of this new service.
 
Local authorities in Basra have also started developing plans to attract inbound tourism with one of the city’s most iconic hotels, the Sheraton, recently reopening for business.
Emirates expects to uplift around 10-12 tonnes of cargo per flight, using the belly hold capacity on the wide-bodied passenger aircraft.
 
As the city is re-established Emirates will be importing a range of commodities that will facilitate the city’s redevelopment. Key imports will range from perishable foodstuffs and garments to electronics and oil well equipment – from all corners of the world.
 
EK 945 will depart Dubai at 13:45 hours and touch down at Basra International Airport at 14:45 hours the same day. At 16:15 hours, return flight EK 946 will depart Basra touching down in Dubai at 19:10 hours. The service connects seamlessly with key industry hubs in the US and Europe. 

MIDDLE EAST TOURISTS FLOCK TO SRI LANKA AS H1 2010 TOURIST ARRIVALS SURGE 102%

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau’s (SLTPB) Middle East office reported an enormous surge of Arab travellers as Middle East Tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka rose by an unprecedented 102 per cent in the first six months of 2010 compared to the same period last year, according to statistics compiled by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.

“Regardless of apprehensions of an unsteady global economy, Middle East’s discerning travellers are spending time and money on travel and Sri Lanka has been one of the preferred destinations of choice with a meteoric rise in tourists during H1 2010,” observed Ms Heba Al Mansoori, Middle East Director of SLTPB.

"We have just closed in on the results of the first six months of 2010 and we're up 102% as compared to H1 2009," Ms Al Mansoori said. "While 2009 was when the recovery process started, with the end of three decades of war, the rebound has been robust and rapid and the recovery is being driven and led by the Middle East with strong growth from key markets including the UAE up by 209%, Saudi Arabia up by 96% and Kuwait up by 50%."

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is resilient and the government is sparing no efforts to revitalize the tourism industry as they recognize that tourism has a key role to play in the country’s economic recovery and stability.

“Our outlook remains positive for the rest of the year as we have successfully built a relationship of trust with both regional consumers and the travel trade and will continue to reap benefits with the gradually improving economic situation,” Ms Al Mansoori stated.

Apart from the Middle East, regions that proved to be a major source market for Sri Lanka and recorded growth in H1 2010 included North America (up by 70%), Western Europe (up by 45%), Eastern Europe (up by 22%), Africa (up by 18%), East Asia (up by 44%), South Asia (up by 53%) and Australasia (up by 44%).

While commenting on SLTPB’s Middle East marketing drive, Ms. Al Mansoori said, “We have had to adapt to the changing needs of the consumers and capitalize on trends such as late booking, increasing use of the internet to look and book by increasing Sri Lanka’s presence in the web domain regionally.”

Ms. Al Mansoori noted that in the Middle East in particular, travelling closer and for shorter periods of time and demanding value for money, seem to have been accentuated during the post crisis period. “The regional outbound market is evolving and inescapably requires changes as we need to know and understand consumers better to be able to market to them,” she said.

SLTPB opened its office in Dubai in May 2008 to maximize the opportunities emerging throughout the Middle East while strengthening support for the travel trade in the region. Since then the Dubai office has co-ordinated all of Sri Lanka’s tourism promotional activities in the Arab markets including exhibition participation, marketing visits, presentations and road shows, brochure distribution, public relations, as well as familiarization visits to the island for influential business and travel journalists. The office also functions as the preliminary contact point and enquiry processing centre for travel trade companies and tourists in the region.

Sri Lanka is now on the threshold of developing to its full potential as a prime tourism destination with diverse offerings for members of the whole family whether it is beaches, shopping, visits to wildlife reserves, relaxing at a spa, or simply enjoying the cuisine.

MAJOR SRI LANKAN HOTEL CHAINS ARE PUMPING IN APPROXIMATELY USD 5 BILLION INTO NEW PROJECTS

The double-digit growth of inbound tourism to Sri Lanka has sparked a massive hotel expansion drive by several hotel giants, including refurbishment of existing hotels and major development plans in the pipeline announced Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau’s (SLTPB) Middle East office.

Total hotel expansion and development spending is estimated at AED 18 billion (USD 5 Billion) while projected inbound tourism arrival is expected to cross 2.5 million by 2016.

The boom in tourism is projected in the wake of increased demand for hotel rooms post conflict resolution. All this will help accommodate the exponential increase in tourist arrival expected.

In the Middle East alone, tourism arrivals for the first six months of 2010 reported an enormous surge in the number of Saudi Arabian travellers to Sri Lanka, according to figures compiled by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau’s (SLTPB) Middle East office. “Arrivals rose by an unprecedented 96 per cent in the first six months of 2010 compared to the same period last year,” said Ms. Heba Al Mansoori, Middle East Director of SLTPB based in Dubai. According to recent statistics compiled by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, the total number of travellers from the Middle East region reflected a phenomenal upsurge with arrivals increasing by 102 per cent over the same period.

“Regardless of apprehensions of an unsteady global economy, Middle East’s discerning travellers are spending time and money on travel and Sri Lanka has been one of the preferred destinations of choice with a meteoric rise in tourists during H1 2010,” observed Ms Al Mansoori.

John Keells Holdings (JKH) invested AED 13 million (400 million LKR) to upgrade and rebrand Club Oceanic to Chaaya Blu in Trincomalee. The group has currently undertaken an AED 65.4 million (2 billion LKR) investment on a new 4 star 190-room hotel in the Beruwela area. Coral Gardens in Hikkaduwa, Bentota Beach and Habarana Lodge are all being given a facelift with the total renovation costing up to AED 49 million  (1.6 billion LKR).  The chain also has lands in Ahungalla, Wirawila and Nilaweli, upon which new properties are planned.

Amaya Resorts and Spas development process is to be carried out in 4 stages. This includes to firstly developing the existing properties which is estimated at AED 36.7 million (USD 10 million). Next step would be to develop the available land bank. The identified areas are – Wadduwa at a cost of AED 55 million (USD 15 million), Kalpitiya at a cost of AED 55 million (USD 15 million), Mirissa at a cost of AED 110 million (USD 30 million), Negombo at AED 110 million (USD 30 million). The total investment that is projected for this 2^nd stage of development is approximately AED 330.5 million (USD 90 million)

Jetwing is all set to spend AED 23 million (LKR 700 million) on rebranding and refurbishing Blue Oceanic as Jetwing Blue. Besides this the chain will spend approximately AED  16.3 million (Rs. 500 million) at Sea Shell which will be converted to Jetwing Sea and AED  13 million (Rs. 400 million) will be spent at Blue Lagoon. Jetwing Blue and Jetwing Sea are slated to open their doors for business in December this year.

“Given the rapid growth of tourism in Sri Lanka, Jetwing seeks to refurbish its current properties and expand its room stock through new ventures. In respect of refurbishment, Jetwing has made a conscious effort to upgrade all its properties gradually to a 4 -5 star (small luxury) properties. Already the Jetwing Blue & Jetwing Sea is underway! As regards new hotel ventures, Jetwing has planned to occupy ‘white spots’, by locating and developing new similar standard hotels in the East Coast, Yala, Kandy, Jaffna and Colombo, while offering to manage several other properties in the island”, states, Hiran Cooray, Chairman Jetwing Group.

Tourist arrivals have increased to nearly a staggering 48 percent for the month of July alone when compared with June 2009. The first half of 2010 has registered a 48.4 percent increase in inbound tourism when compared to the same period in 2009. 

MANDARIN ORIENTAL ANNOUNCES THREE NEW CELEBRITY FANS FOR GLOBAL BRAND ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN

Dubai, 6 September 2010 - 'Mandarin Orientals http://www.mandarinoriental.com USD multi-million global print advertising campaign ''"Hes a Fan/Shes a Fan" http://www.mandarinoriental.com/our_fans, continues to gather 'fans' from

around the world. This year, the Group is delighted to add three new fans to the tally of celebrities who regularly stay at Mandarin Oriental hotels.

Gifted international singer, songwriter, pianist and actor Harry Connick, Jr.,often referred to as the Frank Sinatra of today, has received a multitude of

accolades over his career. These include three Grammy awards and an Emmy, as

well as several acting nominations. Connick is a particular 'fan' of The

Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, where he performed in 2009 to a

spellbound audience at an intimate evening in the hotel's stylish MO Bar. He

cites the property as "one of the greatest hotels I've ever stayed in." Mary

McCartney, the Group's official campaign photographer, captured Connick in the

tropical surrounds of Mandarin Oriental, Sanya.

The elegant and graceful French pianist, Hélène Grimaud was photographed near to

her home in Switzerland. Grimaud performs at concerts worldwide, and has the

unusual gift of experiencing synaesthesia (seeing music as colour). She

particularly enjoys staying at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London, as she often

performs in the city's famous music venues. Grimaud discovered the piano at the

age of seven, and launched her professional career at the age of 18 with a solo

recital in Paris <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paris>. She is also known for her

passion for wolves, which she both studies and raises.

Rising star Sa Ding Ding was born in Inner Mongolia and is a powerful and

sophisticated singer, musician, composer and choreographer. A product of modern

China, she melds Eastern and Western music, even singing in Sanskrit and

Tibetan, and has created her own language where new words are formed from the

emotions evoked by music. McCartney's

-more-

Page 2

portrait of the performer beautifully captures her colourful and vibrant

personality and was taken during a recent tour in the UK, where the singer was a

guest of Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London. Sa Ding Ding's newest album is

entitled 'Harmony'.

The campaign which is the creation of advertising gurus, Alan Jarvie and Michael

Moszynski, who head up LONDON Advertising, continues to increase Mandarin

Oriental's brand awareness globally. The campaign simply and elegantly connects

Mandarin Oriental's well-recognized symbol - the fan - with international

celebrities who regularly stay at the hotels and are true fans of the Group.

Earlier additions to the campaign were photographed by celebrated photographer

and British royal, Lord Patrick Lichfield who sadly passed away in 2005. The

Group appointed renowned portrait photographer Mary McCartney in 2006 who

photographs each celebrity in a location of their choice which, for them, best

represents a feeling of well-being.  In appreciation of their support, the Group

makes a donation to each celebrity's individual choice of charity.

"We continue to be delighted with the campaign, which celebrates 10 years this

year, and believe it makes a strong statement about our Group in a simple and

luxurious manner.  By focusing on celebrities who clearly appreciate the finer

things in life, we have been able to show the quality of our hotels in a far

more interesting way than traditional hotel advertising", says Jill Kluge,

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group's Director of Brand Communications.

Harry Connick Jr., Hélène Grimaud and Sa Ding Ding join Mandarin Oriental's 17

existing fans: IM Pei, Lance Armstrong, Michelle Yeoh, Jane Seymour, Kenzo

Takada, Jerry Hall, Vanessa Mae, Vivienne Tam, Barry Humphries, Frederick

Forsyth, Darcey Bussell, Bryan Ferry, Liam Neeson, Helen Mirren, Maggie Cheung,

Sigourney Weaver and Sir David Tang.

More information about Mandarin Oriental's fans can be found on the Group's

website at www.mandarinoriental.com &http://www.mandarinoriental.com

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of

the world's most prestigious hotels, resorts and residences. Mandarin Oriental

now operates, or has under development, 41 hotels representing over 10,000 rooms

in 27 countries, with 17 hotels in Asia, 12 in The Americas and 12 in Europe,

Middle East and North Africa. In addition, the Group operates, or has under

development, 13 Residences at Mandarin Oriental, connected to the Group's

properties.

.

Germany’s popularity among GCC travellers unabated

Dubai, 01 September 2010 – The number of overnight stays by GCC nationals in Germany increased by 16.4% during the first five months of 2010. During this time 243,759 overnight stays were recorded. Compared to the same period of 2008, that is before the economic downturn, the number of overnight stays by GCC travellers in Germany recorded a 30,3% increase, from 187,004 to 243,759. With the central European country as popular as ever with tourists from the Gulf region, Germany is gearing up to welcome Arab guests who will be visiting the country during Eid Al Fitr holiday. As Germany is home to a large Muslim population, it offers tailor-made holiday packages that are suitable for every taste. Visitors are guaranteed to enjoy a memorable holiday experience during “Eid Al Fitr”.

“Germany is the second most visited European country by travellers from the Arabian Gulf,” said Antje Roeding, Director for the Gulf countries at the German National Tourist Office. “Germany has wonderful nature, picturesque towns, excellent hotels, high-class restaurants and varied shopping opportunities. Most importantly, we offer our guests from the GCC region our German hospitality, which shows itself both in the famous German quality of service as well as in the warmth of the welcome we extend to each and everyone who is visiting our nation,” she added.

Over the past few years, there has been a rapid increase in the number of GCC tourists who spend their holidays in Germany. Statistics recently published by the German Federal Statistics Office show that the number of overnight stays by GCC nationals in Germany during the first five months of 2010 has reached 243,759 nights. In comparison with the same period in 2009, this number indicates a 16.4% increase in overnight stays. In comparison to the same period of 2008, before the economic crisis, the number of overnight stays by visitors from the GCC to Germany rose by 30,3%.The increase in tourism from the Arabian Gulf region was among the highest of all regions in the world.

There are plenty of sights to see and things to do in Germany this Eid holiday. Germany boasts 27 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The country encompasses a rich ensemble of historical sites, architectural monuments as well as swaths of natural reserves and river landscapes.

Special offers for Arab guests include luxury hotels that do not only employ Arabic-speaking staff, but also offer special menus and reserve entire floors for their regular visitors from the Gulf region. This has made Germany one of the preferred destinations for travellers from the Gulf region.

The Eid holiday in Germany is destined to be especially attractive, as there are many possibilities to celebrate in an Islamic atmosphere in cities all over the country. Similar to Muslim countries, mosques in Germany are usually decorated with lights, and various restaurants offer Halal food. Nice promenades with all kinds of cafés and restaurants are considered a wonderful gathering spot for families to celebrate the Eid Holidays while they can enjoy a nice "Kaffee und Kuchen" (Coffee and Cake), a typical German tradition when celebrating a festival.

A whole-day trip to amusement parks is a traditional Eid celebration for Arab families with children. Europa-Park in Rust, close to Freiburg, is Germany’s biggest theme park. It awaits visitors with a concept of thirteen different European areas that offer more than 100 attractions and shows. Europe´s biggest non-profit children, youth and family centre “FEZ Berlin” or the “Legoland Discovery Centre” in Berlin, are also among the country’s various attractions. Another popular destination for families is the Phantasialand amusement park  in Brühl near Cologne which attracts approximately 2 million visitors annually. Many theatres and museums across Germany’s largest cities arrange extra events for families as well.

For youngsters, Germany’s various clubs are a must-visit this holiday season. They can enjoy the musical night scene and celebrate the Eid holiday with friends.

The increase in the number of GCC visitors to Germany over the past few years has enabled the organization to identify their needs and adapt accordingly. For instance, many of Germany’s major cities have begun to offer guidebooks in Arabic and to rent out furnished apartments for families, as an alternative to hotel rooms.

Germany’s efforts are greatly aided by its almost 30 representative offices throughout the world. Of those, the GNTO in Dubai is responsible for promoting Germany in all the major markets of the Gulf: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Whether seeking cost-efficient or luxury vacations, travellers to Germany have a variety of itineraries from which to choose. The picturesque German scenery includes lakes, forests and snow-capped mountains, making it ideal for a wide range of outdoor pursuits including hiking, rowing, horse-riding and skiing. Its modern cities offer an eclectic mix of cultural activities and are home to some of the most popular shopping districts in Europe, while families with small children can enjoy exploring the country’s many amusement and leisure parks.

Some people believe that the respect for personal freedom in Germany has contributed immensely to increasing the number of Arab tourists flocking to Germany. Moreover, Germany is the most affordable luxury tourist destination anywhere in Western Europe. The country has an excellent quality-price ratio in hotel accommodation, with rates for overnight stays in German cities relatively low compared to other European destinations. In 2009 the average price for a hotel room in Germany was 80 Euros, whereas in the rest of the European Union one would need to pay 94 Euros on an average.

MIDDLE EAST TOURISTS FLOCK TO SRI LANKA AS H1 2010 TOURIST ARRIVALS SURGE 102%

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau’s (SLTPB) Middle East office reported an enormous surge of Arab travellers as Middle East Tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka rose by an unprecedented 102 per cent in the first six months of 2010 compared to the same period last year, according to statistics compiled by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.

“Regardless of apprehensions of an unsteady global economy, Middle East’s discerning travellers are spending time and money on travel and Sri Lanka has been one of the preferred destinations of choice with a meteoric rise in tourists during H1 2010,” observed Ms Heba Al Mansoori, Middle East Director of SLTPB.

"We have just closed in on the results of the first six months of 2010 and we're up 102% as compared to H1 2009," Ms Al Mansoori said. "While 2009 was when the recovery process started, with the end of three decades of war, the rebound has been robust and rapid and the recovery is being driven and led by the Middle East with strong growth from key markets including the UAE up by 209%, Saudi Arabia up by 96% and Kuwait up by 50%."

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is resilient and the government is sparing no efforts to revitalize the tourism industry as they recognize that tourism has a key role to play in the country’s economic recovery and stability.

“Our outlook remains positive for the rest of the year as we have successfully built a relationship of trust with both regional consumers and the travel trade and will continue to reap benefits with the gradually improving economic situation,” Ms Al Mansoori stated.

Apart from the Middle East, regions that proved to be a major source market for Sri Lanka and recorded growth in H1 2010 included North America (up by 70%), Western Europe (up by 45%), Eastern Europe (up by 22%), Africa (up by 18%), East Asia (up by 44%), South Asia (up by 53%) and Australasia (up by 44%).

While commenting on SLTPB’s Middle East marketing drive, Ms. Al Mansoori said, “We have had to adapt to the changing needs of the consumers and capitalize on trends such as late booking, increasing use of the internet to look and book by increasing Sri Lanka’s presence in the web domain regionally.”

Ms. Al Mansoori noted that in the Middle East in particular, travelling closer and for shorter periods of time and demanding value for money, seem to have been accentuated during the post crisis period. “The regional outbound market is evolving and inescapably requires changes as we need to know and understand consumers better to be able to market to them,” she said.

SLTPB opened its office in Dubai in May 2008 to maximize the opportunities emerging throughout the Middle East while strengthening support for the travel trade in the region. Since then the Dubai office has co-ordinated all of Sri Lanka’s tourism promotional activities in the Arab markets including exhibition participation, marketing visits, presentations and road shows, brochure distribution, public relations, as well as familiarization visits to the island for influential business and travel journalists. The office also functions as the preliminary contact point and enquiry processing centre for travel trade companies and tourists in the region.

Sri Lanka is now on the threshold of developing to its full potential as a prime tourism destination with diverse offerings for members of the whole family whether it is beaches, shopping, visits to wildlife reserves, relaxing at a spa, or simply enjoying the cuisine.

Purchase your 30-day or 96-hour UAE visa on www.emirates.com

DUBAI, U.A.E., 17 May 2010: Emirates airline has introduced yet another initiative to simplify travel with the launch of ‘Purchase your UAE visa online’. Emirates is the only airline in the Middle East to offer this complete online visa solution to its passengers visiting its hub – Dubai, UAE - for business or leisure.

The feature – an extension of the online flight booking process on www.emirates.com - can be accessed by valid Emirates ticket holders from 35 select countries. Only 30-day and 96-hour visit visas to Dubai, UAE are available through the new feature, subject to all pre-requisites being met. The pre-requisites are defined by Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department (DNRD) as it takes the decision to grant the visa. (www.dnrd.gov.ae ).

A 96-hour visa will cost US$ 44 while a 30-day visa will cost US$ 57. Service fees are applied separately.

Visas are delivered via email within four international working days. Passengers can continually track the status of their applications via www.emirates.com

Richard Vaughan, Emirates’ Divisional Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations Worldwide noted: “Advancements in aviation are often related to simplifications in the travel process. I’m delighted Emirates is advancing travel convenience by allowing its customers to apply, purchase and track their UAE visa online - another initiative in a series of self-service tools that offer more convenience, flexibility and control to passengers. Taking place from the comfort of one’s home, office or hotel, it requires none of the running around often associated with submitting forms, securing approvals and collecting visas.

“It also demonstrates our ongoing commitment to Dubai and its tourism industry. The timely introduction of this feature ahead of the summer rush will facilitate travel for scores of tourists visiting the emirate during the Dubai Summer Surprises.”

Groups and families stand to gain significantly as the feature accepts multiple requests of up to nine people as long as they are on the same booking. It is available to Emirates ticket holders regardless of whether the booking is facilitated via www.emirates.com, an Emirates office or a travel agent.

In its initial phase the facility is being rolled out in 35 countries* in the Far East, Indian sub-continent, Middle East, Africa, Europe and the Americas. In the second phase, due to roll out in the coming weeks, offline markets will be targeted. These comprise countries that do not have Emirates services, but which connect to nearby gateways of the Dubai-based airline.

Passengers click ‘Manage Your Booking’ on www.emirates.com and proceed with seven simple steps to complete the transaction. Passengers have the flexibility to request visas at the time of or after the flight booking has been completed.

Emirates has partnered with VFS Global to introduce this feature. VFS Global - a part of Switzerland-based Kuoni Travel Group – is a specialist partner for diplomatic missions worldwide, processing over 7 million (contracted) visa applications per year. It operates the Dubai Visa Processing Centre (DVPC) in 11 countries. DVPC does not process work visas.

Dnata Travel and HRG Offer Corporate and Leisure Travel Services to the Qatari Market

Doha, QATAR, 19th May, 2009 – Dnata Travel and HRG, the region’s leading experts in corporate, business and leisure travel, have opened an outlet in Doha, Qatar.
This announcement follows the opening of Dnata Travel/HRG in Afghanistan in January and takes the travel management company’s regional reach to seven countries; UAE, Bahrain, KSA, Kuwait, Oman, Afghanistan and Qatar.

The latest expansion underlines Dnata’s position as the leading travel management company in the GCC – a position recognised at the World Travel Awards this month, when Dnata won the Middle East’s Leading Travel Management Company award for the third year in a row.

Dnata Travel Qatar, located on the Airport Road, (contactable on +974 448 4848) will offer the full range of corporate and leisure travel services, including tailor made holiday packages; car hire; outbound VISA services and a unique corporate travel management solution with advanced tracking and reporting tools.

Abdulla Tawakul, Senior Vice President - Corporate and Regional Network, Dnata Travel Services, said: “With access to Dnata’s unrivalled local and international networks, Dnata Travel Qatar will be able to offer customers a consistently high level of service and an unbeatable range of products.”

He continued: “Qatar is a country in which there is huge potential for the corporate travel market. With Dnata’s 23% shareholding in the global corporate travel management company HRG, we are ideally situated to capitalise on this market.”

Qatar General Manager Rehan Ali Syed added: “Skilled and professional staff with the ability to deliver travel related products and services to international standards are what will set Dnata Qatar apart from the competition".

INTERCONTINENTAL HOTELS & RESORTS OPENS PREMIUM RESORT IN MAURITIUS, FIRST IN AFRICAN REGION

Dubai, May 12th, 2009 - InterContinental Hotels & Resorts and Lateral Holdings opens its first upscale resort on the island, InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort.

Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the resort is located along the Bay of Balaclava, 20 minutes north of the country’s capital Port Louis and a 15-minute drive from the island’s most popular area, Grand Baie.

“This opening is a significant milestone for us as it is our first hotel resort on the African continent. Mauritius is an extremely popular tourist destination globally and welcomed over 900,000 tourists in 2008,” said John Bamsey, Chief Operation Officer, IHG Middle East and Africa. “Tourism is a major focus for the Government and we are confident that this resort will be a great contribution to Mauritius. “

“InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort offers travellers a truly authentic destination experience,” added Bamsey.

Finished with natural hand-chiselled limestone, volcanic rock, and African timber, the InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort comprises of 210 spacious rooms, including 40 family guest rooms and 10 suites, each with a panoramic view of the turquoise blue waters of the Indian Ocean and white sandy beaches of the Bay of Balaclava. All rooms feature a stone-bathtub, individual bathroom with a 19- inch plasma TV and a separate shower. A wide range of amenities, including a 42-inch plasma TV, broadband internet access, and convenient central bed-side electronic controls, provide guests with the utmost luxury and exceptional comfort, synonymous to the InterContinental brand.

Complementing the island’s natural beauty, InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort has two infinity pools located next to the beach and the only lagoon on the island with a natural islet for a salt-water dip. For diving enthusiasts, the resort has an extensive range of water activities that include snorkelling, scuba diving, water skiing and deep sea fishing.

Situated on the roof-top, the resort’s Angsana Spa and Health Club, managed by Banyan Tree, offers the ultimate in rejuvenation through steam and sauna rooms, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, relaxation areas and a boutique offering a range of wellness products.

The resort also offers guests a variety of specialty restaurants. Veda, a first of its kind on the island, that blends authentic Indian cuisine with contemporary design; Segala, which is situated on the beach, will serve the Mediterranean Seafood; Noble House that will offer oriental fusion cuisine; Palms that offers light meals and fun food adjacent to the main pool area; and, Senso with a diverse International buffet.

For high profile social and corporate events, the property features the largest hotel banqueting and conference hall in Mauritius. Eight metres tall, the grand ballroom has direct access to the pool, gardens and the beach and accommodates up to 1,000 people. The area spreads over 1,400 meters and includes four meeting rooms and a business centre equipped with modern facilities and amenities.

The opening of the resort also marks a new partnership for InterContinental Hotels Group and Lateral Holdings, whose prime interest is in developing hospitality, retail and residential projects across the Indian Ocean Rim.

Commenting on the opening of the resort, Darryl Sequeira, Executive Director of Lateral Holdings said, “The opening of InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort is quite significant for us as it is our first hotel resort project in the hospitality category and on the African continent. Mauritius is considered an aspirational destination attracting travellers from around the world who seek unique and enriching experiences. InterContintental was a natural choice for us as its core values resonate very well with the destination and type of traveller it attracts. We are looking forward to a long and lasting relationship with IHG and are very confident that InterContinental will make its mark and be very successful in Mauritius,” Sequeira concluded.

INTERCONTINENTAL HOTELS & RESORTS OPENS PREMIUM RESORT IN MAURITIUS, FIRST IN AFRICAN REGION

Dubai, May 12th, 2009 - InterContinental Hotels & Resorts and Lateral Holdings opens its first upscale resort on the island, InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort.

Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the resort is located along the Bay of Balaclava, 20 minutes north of the country’s capital Port Louis and a 15-minute drive from the island’s most popular area, Grand Baie.

“This opening is a significant milestone for us as it is our first hotel resort on the African continent. Mauritius is an extremely popular tourist destination globally and welcomed over 900,000 tourists in 2008,” said John Bamsey, Chief Operation Officer, IHG Middle East and Africa. “Tourism is a major focus for the Government and we are confident that this resort will be a great contribution to Mauritius. “

“InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort offers travellers a truly authentic destination experience,” added Bamsey.

Finished with natural hand-chiselled limestone, volcanic rock, and African timber, the InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort comprises of 210 spacious rooms, including 40 family guest rooms and 10 suites, each with a panoramic view of the turquoise blue waters of the Indian Ocean and white sandy beaches of the Bay of Balaclava. All rooms feature a stone-bathtub, individual bathroom with a 19- inch plasma TV and a separate shower. A wide range of amenities, including a 42-inch plasma TV, broadband internet access, and convenient central bed-side electronic controls, provide guests with the utmost luxury and exceptional comfort, synonymous to the InterContinental brand.

Complementing the island’s natural beauty, InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort has two infinity pools located next to the beach and the only lagoon on the island with a natural islet for a salt-water dip. For diving enthusiasts, the resort has an extensive range of water activities that include snorkelling, scuba diving, water skiing and deep sea fishing.

Situated on the roof-top, the resort’s Angsana Spa and Health Club, managed by Banyan Tree, offers the ultimate in rejuvenation through steam and sauna rooms, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, relaxation areas and a boutique offering a range of wellness products.

The resort also offers guests a variety of specialty restaurants. Veda, a first of its kind on the island, that blends authentic Indian cuisine with contemporary design; Segala, which is situated on the beach, will serve the Mediterranean Seafood; Noble House that will offer oriental fusion cuisine; Palms that offers light meals and fun food adjacent to the main pool area; and, Senso with a diverse International buffet.

For high profile social and corporate events, the property features the largest hotel banqueting and conference hall in Mauritius. Eight metres tall, the grand ballroom has direct access to the pool, gardens and the beach and accommodates up to 1,000 people. The area spreads over 1,400 meters and includes four meeting rooms and a business centre equipped with modern facilities and amenities.

The opening of the resort also marks a new partnership for InterContinental Hotels Group and Lateral Holdings, whose prime interest is in developing hospitality, retail and residential projects across the Indian Ocean Rim.

Commenting on the opening of the resort, Darryl Sequeira, Executive Director of Lateral Holdings said, “The opening of InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort is quite significant for us as it is our first hotel resort project in the hospitality category and on the African continent. Mauritius is considered an aspirational destination attracting travellers from around the world who seek unique and enriching experiences. InterContintental was a natural choice for us as its core values resonate very well with the destination and type of traveller it attracts. We are looking forward to a long and lasting relationship with IHG and are very confident that InterContinental will make its mark and be very successful in Mauritius,” Sequeira concluded.