Ebookers shares slump on profit warning - 29-Jul-04.the company revealing that total online sales for the second quarter of the year had risen by 62%, with “web-enabled “ sales up 16% and offline sales down by 14% in the quarter. Total gross sales are expected to hit £135 million against £118 million despite this being the company’s weakest quarter
Thursday, July 29, 2004
Tuesday, July 27, 2004
Google, other engines hit by worm variant | CNET News.com
Google, other engines hit by worm variant | CNET News.com: "Major Internet search engines were crippled Monday morning by a variant of the MyDoom worm, rendering Google inaccessible to many users and slowing results from Yahoo. "
Sabre to ask hotels to pay for preferential positions in the GDS' hotel availability displays TW Crossroads
TW Crossroads: "Sabre is changing the unwritten rules of hotel distribution, asking hotels to pay for preferential positions -- often the first or second spots -- in the GDS' hotel availability displays for agents.
In the still-unannounced Sabre Hotel Spotlight program, which is slated to be implemented by mid-August, Sabre will not indicate that properties purchased the priority display positions, TravelWeekly.com has learned.
As one condition of participating in Spotlight, individual properties must provide Sabre with their Web-only rates. Sabre also seeks rate, rules and availability parity relative to direct channels and intermediaries.
The Sabre initiative comes as all four GDSs evaluate market dynamics in light of GDS deregulation, which goes into effect July 31. "
In the still-unannounced Sabre Hotel Spotlight program, which is slated to be implemented by mid-August, Sabre will not indicate that properties purchased the priority display positions, TravelWeekly.com has learned.
As one condition of participating in Spotlight, individual properties must provide Sabre with their Web-only rates. Sabre also seeks rate, rules and availability parity relative to direct channels and intermediaries.
The Sabre initiative comes as all four GDSs evaluate market dynamics in light of GDS deregulation, which goes into effect July 31. "
Monday, July 26, 2004
More Wales...fishing
travmedia.com: "Visitors to the Country Landowners� Association Game Fair at Blenheim Palace on Saturday will be among the first to see the complete package of brochures - Fly Fishing Wales, Sea Fishing Wales and Fishing Wales - produced by the Wales Tourist Board and Environment Agency Wales.
The brochures, which are key elements in the Fishing Wales project supported by EU and Welsh Assembly funding, underpin promotional work to increase angling tourism which already contributes about �75m a year to the Welsh economy and could bring in some �98m by 2007.
The brochures also complement �A guide to Fresh Water Angling in Wales� which lists a selection of more than 500 Welsh fisheries and the facilities that they offer to anglers. The WTB has also set up a website for anglers at www.fishing.visitwales.com and a dedicated information line on 08701 211250, which have already proved to be a huge success with anglers"
The brochures, which are key elements in the Fishing Wales project supported by EU and Welsh Assembly funding, underpin promotional work to increase angling tourism which already contributes about �75m a year to the Welsh economy and could bring in some �98m by 2007.
The brochures also complement �A guide to Fresh Water Angling in Wales� which lists a selection of more than 500 Welsh fisheries and the facilities that they offer to anglers. The WTB has also set up a website for anglers at www.fishing.visitwales.com and a dedicated information line on 08701 211250, which have already proved to be a huge success with anglers"
flexible charter winter flights
travmedia.com: "The First Choice flexible charter winter flights programme is now on sale with two new routes having been added to the flying programme along with eight new UK departure airports.
In addition to flights already available from London Gatwick and Manchester, flexible charter flights are now available from;
Stansted
Bristol
Luton
Cardiff
Exeter
Birmingham
East Midlands
Glasgow
Larnaca and Paphos in Cyprus have been introduced to the destination portfolio currently available, always a popular choice with the UK holidaymaker.
Adrian Woodcraft, First Choice Yield & Planning Director said: �I am sure that Cyprus will be a popular addition to our growing portfolio of destinations. Customers booking our flexible charter seats have the flexibility that they want combined with the knowledge that they are fully protected and we welcome the advice from the CAA calling for the Government to protect all airline passengers in the event of the financial failure of their airline.�
Flexible charter seats can be booked via firstchioce.co.uk/flights or by calling reservations on 08707 500 500.
Ends
For further information please contact Sandra Pitcher, Press Office: 01223 588101"
In addition to flights already available from London Gatwick and Manchester, flexible charter flights are now available from;
Stansted
Bristol
Luton
Cardiff
Exeter
Birmingham
East Midlands
Glasgow
Larnaca and Paphos in Cyprus have been introduced to the destination portfolio currently available, always a popular choice with the UK holidaymaker.
Adrian Woodcraft, First Choice Yield & Planning Director said: �I am sure that Cyprus will be a popular addition to our growing portfolio of destinations. Customers booking our flexible charter seats have the flexibility that they want combined with the knowledge that they are fully protected and we welcome the advice from the CAA calling for the Government to protect all airline passengers in the event of the financial failure of their airline.�
Flexible charter seats can be booked via firstchioce.co.uk/flights or by calling reservations on 08707 500 500.
Ends
For further information please contact Sandra Pitcher, Press Office: 01223 588101"
Action Plan for the Countryside Experience Wales travmedia.com
travmedia.com: "Thursday 22 July 2004, Minister for Economic Development and Transport Andrew Davies AM launches the Action Plan for the Countryside Experience at the Wales Tourist Pavilion in the Royal Welsh Show...
five action points are; to improve access to the countryside through rights of way, circular walks, trails etc. and through capitalising on the CROW Act provisions in 2005; develop and market the different parts of the countryside experience in Wales for a variety of types of visitor; develop quality eating out in Wales; integrate regeneration of rural Wales; and provide local information in a manner to suit the needs of visitors and residents."
five action points are; to improve access to the countryside through rights of way, circular walks, trails etc. and through capitalising on the CROW Act provisions in 2005; develop and market the different parts of the countryside experience in Wales for a variety of types of visitor; develop quality eating out in Wales; integrate regeneration of rural Wales; and provide local information in a manner to suit the needs of visitors and residents."
19,300 Google Search: allinurl:totaltravel.co.uk
Google Search: allinurl:totaltravel.co.uk: "19,300 for allinurl:totaltravel.co.uk"
Thursday, July 22, 2004
Tourism Included in Draft to EU
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "A clause on tourism has emerged in the latest draft of the Constitution for discussion among ministers and stakeholders in the member states of the European Union. (7/21/2004)
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The new article of the EU Constitution says that the EU aims to encourage the creation of a favourable environment for the development of tourism businesses, and promote cooperation among member states � particularly by the exchange of good practice.
EU regulations have a powerful effect on tourism policy in the areas of transport, trade, competition, consumer rights and international law.
www.eurunion.org "
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� Send to a Friend
The new article of the EU Constitution says that the EU aims to encourage the creation of a favourable environment for the development of tourism businesses, and promote cooperation among member states � particularly by the exchange of good practice.
EU regulations have a powerful effect on tourism policy in the areas of transport, trade, competition, consumer rights and international law.
www.eurunion.org "
Govt paper 'Tomorrows Tourism Today' & internet to drive UK tourism growth
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "Government expects internet to drive UK tourism growth - by Robin Langford
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has outlined plans to attract more tourists to the UK, highlighting the online travel sector as a key driver for growth. (7/21/2004)
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In a new report entitled 'Tomorrows Tourism Today', the government said it aims to grow the UK tourism industry by nearly 25% by 2010, from the current �76bn a year to �100bn a year. The new initiative aims to redress the UK's current 'balance of payments deficit' (UK holidaymakers spending more abroad than foreign counterparts spend here) of �15bn.
The report, published as the joint tourism prospectus of DCMS and the UK tourism industry, outlines key drivers for growth in the UK. It identifies e-Tourism as one of the only pieces of e-Government that generates net income for the UK from abroad, and is able to produce a significant return on investment. "
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has outlined plans to attract more tourists to the UK, highlighting the online travel sector as a key driver for growth. (7/21/2004)
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� Send to a Friend
In a new report entitled 'Tomorrows Tourism Today', the government said it aims to grow the UK tourism industry by nearly 25% by 2010, from the current �76bn a year to �100bn a year. The new initiative aims to redress the UK's current 'balance of payments deficit' (UK holidaymakers spending more abroad than foreign counterparts spend here) of �15bn.
The report, published as the joint tourism prospectus of DCMS and the UK tourism industry, outlines key drivers for growth in the UK. It identifies e-Tourism as one of the only pieces of e-Government that generates net income for the UK from abroad, and is able to produce a significant return on investment. "
Travel - The Most successful Online Industry (2 useful docs at Doubleclick
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "The travel industry is considered to have the most successful performance online over any other industry. 91% of people recently surveyed by DoubleClick said that Internet has changed the way they purchase travel. (7/21/2004)
The majority of travel research and booking has shifted from traditional channels to the Internet. The convenience, speed and access to comparison pricing that the Internet affords them has won over business and leisure travellers, forcing travel-related businesses to serve their customers online or die. The Internet might be called a source of much of the travel industry�s despair, but, curiously, it also offers a possible means of managing the very crisis it has helped create.
TO READ FULL ARTICLE CLICK HERE "
The majority of travel research and booking has shifted from traditional channels to the Internet. The convenience, speed and access to comparison pricing that the Internet affords them has won over business and leisure travellers, forcing travel-related businesses to serve their customers online or die. The Internet might be called a source of much of the travel industry�s despair, but, curiously, it also offers a possible means of managing the very crisis it has helped create.
TO READ FULL ARTICLE CLICK HERE "
Ticketing, Check-in and Security Trends & Solutions (for future...)
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "Electronic ticketing (e-ticketing) and check-in solutions are becoming more sophisticated and more widely adopted by airlines and other travel providers as they strive to reduce costs while streamlining the travel process. In conjunction, security measures remain a high priority with the launch of a number of new programmes and systems, for air travel as well as the rail sector. For full report go to (7/21/2004)"
Tuesday, July 20, 2004
Contact ? Government must spend more on tourism� - 20-Jul-04.
'Government must spend more on tourism� - 20-Jul-04.: "The Government has been urged to invest more in supporting the UK�s multi-billion pound tourism industry.
The call came the Tourism Alliance, a group of 60 bodies which promote Britain�s tourism, as it published its 2004 annual report.
Tourism Alliance director general Richard Tobias said efforts to drive Britain�s tourism trade up from �76 billion a year up to a value of �100 billion by 2010 �can only be achieved if government investment in marketing England and Britain increases to keep pace with competition from other destinations�."
The call came the Tourism Alliance, a group of 60 bodies which promote Britain�s tourism, as it published its 2004 annual report.
Tourism Alliance director general Richard Tobias said efforts to drive Britain�s tourism trade up from �76 billion a year up to a value of �100 billion by 2010 �can only be achieved if government investment in marketing England and Britain increases to keep pace with competition from other destinations�."
Choice relaunches online booking service - 20-Jul-04.
Choice relaunches online booking service - 20-Jul-04.: "Choice Hotels has relaunched its one-stop online bookings service for travel agents and tour operators.
The secure site, named Travel Professionals, is now available at www.choicehotels.com and replaces the former travelagentcity.com booking facility...
Choice Hotels represents more than 5,000 hotels open or under development in 42 countries."
The secure site, named Travel Professionals, is now available at www.choicehotels.com and replaces the former travelagentcity.com booking facility...
Choice Hotels represents more than 5,000 hotels open or under development in 42 countries."
BBC NEWS | UK | Flight protection levy suggested (amongst other reports & attempts to cover all contingencies)
BBC NEWS UK Flight protection levy suggested: "Flight protection levy suggested
MPs say a new scheme could cost up to two pounds per ticket
Air travellers could pay up to �2 extra per ticket under proposals for a new scheme to prevent them being stranded if an airline collapses."
CAA'>http://www.travelmole.com/news_detail.php?news_id=101056">CAA urges Government to close protection loophole - 20-Jul-04.: "Any change in the law could take years to be passed, so the CAA is asking the Government to consider interim measures that could be implemented by airlines on a voluntary basis.
These include carriers arranging for packages to be sold through an ATOL holder and selling improved insurance which covers airline failure. Both ABTA and the Federation of Tour Operators welcomed the CAA move.
MPs say a new scheme could cost up to two pounds per ticket
Air travellers could pay up to �2 extra per ticket under proposals for a new scheme to prevent them being stranded if an airline collapses."
CAA'>http://www.travelmole.com/news_detail.php?news_id=101056">CAA urges Government to close protection loophole - 20-Jul-04.: "Any change in the law could take years to be passed, so the CAA is asking the Government to consider interim measures that could be implemented by airlines on a voluntary basis.
These include carriers arranging for packages to be sold through an ATOL holder and selling improved insurance which covers airline failure. Both ABTA and the Federation of Tour Operators welcomed the CAA move.
Demand Outstrips Supply For Paid Search,..Being reported everywhere
MediaDailyNews 07-20-04: "Demand Outstrips Supply For Paid Search, Market Expansion Could Stall"
Top 10 Global "Travel - Destinations and Accommodation Active in at 3
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and AnalysisTop 10 Global "Travel - Destinations and Accommodation" sites for the week ending 17 July, 2004 based on VISITS
1. (8.23 %) lastminute.com http://www.lastminute.com
2. (2.51 %) Trip Advisor http://www.tripadvisor.com
3. (2.22 %) Active Hotels http://www.activehotels.com
4. (1.77 %) SuperBreak http://www.superbreak.com
5. (1.69 %) Holidays Uncovered http://www.holidaysuncovered.co.uk
6. (1.30 %) InterContinental Hotels Group http://www.ichotelsgroup.com
7. (1.30 %) Travelodge UK http://www.travelodge.co.uk
8. (1.09 %) Hotels.com - UK http://www.hotels.co.uk
9. (1.01 %) Travel Inn http://www.travelinn.co.uk
10. (0.99 %) Haven Holiday Parks http://www.havenholidays.co.uk
1. (8.23 %) lastminute.com http://www.lastminute.com
2. (2.51 %) Trip Advisor http://www.tripadvisor.com
3. (2.22 %) Active Hotels http://www.activehotels.com
4. (1.77 %) SuperBreak http://www.superbreak.com
5. (1.69 %) Holidays Uncovered http://www.holidaysuncovered.co.uk
6. (1.30 %) InterContinental Hotels Group http://www.ichotelsgroup.com
7. (1.30 %) Travelodge UK http://www.travelodge.co.uk
8. (1.09 %) Hotels.com - UK http://www.hotels.co.uk
9. (1.01 %) Travel Inn http://www.travelinn.co.uk
10. (0.99 %) Haven Holiday Parks http://www.havenholidays.co.uk
BritRail pays 8% on the passes
TW Crossroads: "Commission on BritRail Passes from Rail Europe Group firms is 5%, whether booked online or by phone. Contact Rail Europe at http://agent.raileurope.com or (888) 382-7245, or DER at www.der.com or (800) 782-2424. BritRail pays 8% on the passes when booked at (866) BRITRAIL. "
Eurostar pays 7% commission on such bookings.
TW Crossroads: "The high-speed Eurostar railway system linking Britain, France and Belgium is expanding its U.S. distribution network.
Once available in the U.S. primarily via rail pass distributors such as Rail Europe and Destination Europe Resources (DER), Eurostar tickets now can be booked through alternative channels such as a proprietary call center at (800) EUROSTAR, major GDSs and at online storefronts, including the firm's own www.eurostar.com site and Internet agency Travelocity....
"From a convenience standpoint, we're already winning people over, and where we fell short before was in distribution," he said. "That's why we've now gone out and tried to make it as easy as possible for agencies to book us on behalf of the consumers who already want to travel with us."
Eurostar carried some 200,000 Americans on its trains in 2003.
Distribution diversification first began in July 2003, when Eurostar announced GDS bookability through interline agreements with nine international airlines, including US Airways and Virgin Atlantic Airways.
Under the plan, agents could book Eurostar tickets as part of transatlantic airline itineraries.
Earlier this year, Eurostar entered phase two when it joined ARC as a participating carrier
Once it joined ARC, Eurostar became bookable on the GDSs, including Amadeus, Sabre and Worldspan; Eurostar pays 7% commission on such bookings.
What's more, Eurostar terminals at London's Waterloo station, the Gare du Nord in Paris and Brussels South in Belgium are identified on GDSs by airport-style codes -- QQW, XPG and ZYR, respectively -- that pop up when agents do destination searches, said van West.
'It's another thing we did to make it as easy as possible for agents to book us via the GDS.'
Eurostar also is bookable online at Travelocity, via Rail Europe Group; availability at competing consumer travel sites such as Orbitz and Expedia is also possible in the near future. "
TW Crossroads: "Eurostar, which links Britain, France and Belgium, repeated the record 19% growth it achieved in the first quarter of 2004 during the entire first half of the year, carrying more than 3.4 million passengers through the Channel Tunnel, up from 2.85 million in the first six months of 2003.
Eurostar also reported capturing significantly more London-Brussels traffic compared to air traffic, with its passenger numbers growing by 41% between May 2003 and May 2004.
The high-speed railway now accounts for 57% of traffic between the capitals, compared to 43% at the same time last year. "
Once available in the U.S. primarily via rail pass distributors such as Rail Europe and Destination Europe Resources (DER), Eurostar tickets now can be booked through alternative channels such as a proprietary call center at (800) EUROSTAR, major GDSs and at online storefronts, including the firm's own www.eurostar.com site and Internet agency Travelocity....
"From a convenience standpoint, we're already winning people over, and where we fell short before was in distribution," he said. "That's why we've now gone out and tried to make it as easy as possible for agencies to book us on behalf of the consumers who already want to travel with us."
Eurostar carried some 200,000 Americans on its trains in 2003.
Distribution diversification first began in July 2003, when Eurostar announced GDS bookability through interline agreements with nine international airlines, including US Airways and Virgin Atlantic Airways.
Under the plan, agents could book Eurostar tickets as part of transatlantic airline itineraries.
Earlier this year, Eurostar entered phase two when it joined ARC as a participating carrier
Once it joined ARC, Eurostar became bookable on the GDSs, including Amadeus, Sabre and Worldspan; Eurostar pays 7% commission on such bookings.
What's more, Eurostar terminals at London's Waterloo station, the Gare du Nord in Paris and Brussels South in Belgium are identified on GDSs by airport-style codes -- QQW, XPG and ZYR, respectively -- that pop up when agents do destination searches, said van West.
'It's another thing we did to make it as easy as possible for agents to book us via the GDS.'
Eurostar also is bookable online at Travelocity, via Rail Europe Group; availability at competing consumer travel sites such as Orbitz and Expedia is also possible in the near future. "
TW Crossroads: "Eurostar, which links Britain, France and Belgium, repeated the record 19% growth it achieved in the first quarter of 2004 during the entire first half of the year, carrying more than 3.4 million passengers through the Channel Tunnel, up from 2.85 million in the first six months of 2003.
Eurostar also reported capturing significantly more London-Brussels traffic compared to air traffic, with its passenger numbers growing by 41% between May 2003 and May 2004.
The high-speed railway now accounts for 57% of traffic between the capitals, compared to 43% at the same time last year. "
travmedia.com
travmedia.com: "TravMedia and Visit London are delighted to invite media to celebrate TravMedia's first birthday in the UK, and to showcase Visit London's new digital channel 'London TV'... meet the TravMedia team and other UK journalists who use TravMedia, the world's leading travel news distribution service."
Date: Wednesday 04 August 2004
Where: Visit London, 6th Floor, 2 More London Riverside, London SE1 2RR
Time: 6 - 9 pm
Date: Wednesday 04 August 2004
Where: Visit London, 6th Floor, 2 More London Riverside, London SE1 2RR
Time: 6 - 9 pm
Saturday, July 17, 2004
Future competition Local-i Restaurant Search Site Launches in Beta
Local-i Restaurant Search Site Launches in Beta: "Local-i Restaurant Search Site Launches in Beta
� � � ClickZ News
By Janis Mara | July 16, 2004
New local restaurant search site Local-i offers an innovative approach that may enable it to take a bite out of the lucrative local search market."
� � � ClickZ News
By Janis Mara | July 16, 2004
New local restaurant search site Local-i offers an innovative approach that may enable it to take a bite out of the lucrative local search market."
UK road tolls: highways to heaven? - Logistics Business Review
UK road tolls: highways to heaven? - Logistics Business Review: "UK road tolls: highways to heaven?
A new report has endorsed the imposition of variable tolls on congested UK roads.
12 Jul 2004, 18:29 GMT - The Commission for Integrated Transport's road toll proposals are aimed at reducing congestion on key routes. Yet they are still likely to face strong resistance from road haulage and logistics players unwilling to see their margins further squeezed.
The Commission for Integrated Transport is recommending the imposition of pay as you go tolls on certain roads. The Commission says that road users should regard its proposals as a change in the way road tax is paid, not an additional burden."
A new report has endorsed the imposition of variable tolls on congested UK roads.
12 Jul 2004, 18:29 GMT - The Commission for Integrated Transport's road toll proposals are aimed at reducing congestion on key routes. Yet they are still likely to face strong resistance from road haulage and logistics players unwilling to see their margins further squeezed.
The Commission for Integrated Transport is recommending the imposition of pay as you go tolls on certain roads. The Commission says that road users should regard its proposals as a change in the way road tax is paid, not an additional burden."
watersideEngland campaign
The watersideEngland campaign, launched in association with Waterscape.com, Tourism South East and Bristol City, promotes thousands of options for water babies across the nine regions of England that can be enjoyed whatever the weather. The accompanying brochure encompasses leisure time opportunities for consumers across the topics of inland waterways, watersports, maritime attractions and seafood & drink.Whether it’s an extreme aquatic adventure or a sedate seaside stroll you’re seeking, there’s sure to be something on your doorstep to whet your appetite for water. From cycling the towpaths to canal boating through the spectacular countryside, be inspired by Harrison Ford and Calista Flockhart’s recent ride and join the celebrity crew! If that doesn’t float your boat, maybe sailing or scuba diving, kayaking or kite surfing will do the trick – whatever your passion there’s an abundance of appealing attractions out there just waiting to hook you in. The watersideEngland campaign complements another impending marketing initiative from VisitBritain. Due to launch later this year, SeaBritain 2005 will celebrate Britain’s rich maritime history and has been inspired by the bicentenary of The Battle of Trafalgar.Walk on water with Waterscape.comFrom tranquil waterside walks to boat trips, holiday cottages by the water and visits to impressive historical sites, British Waterways’ comprehensive online guide to the UK’s waterways - Waterscape.com, offers hundreds of ideas to help make the most of England’s beautiful rivers, lakes and canals, including a comprehensive listing of over 700 pubs and bars to be enjoyed by the water! Providing the largest online selection of boating holidays and waterside holiday accommodation, including cottages and hotels, waterscape.com also details trip planners, guides and helpful maps as well as information on the best routes for enjoying each area on a bicycle or on foot.Go with the flow - for waves and waterways, relax in South East EnglandThroughout the South East’s rich history, the sea has provided pleasure and protection and for the perfect choice to get away from it all, there’s no better place than by the water. If you want to feel exhilarated, the South East has a variety of dramatic coasts and watersports. If you need something soothing, the South East has golden sands and peaceful rivers. Enjoy the new look Portsmouth, centuries of maritime heritage, the resort of Southsea a world class waterfront and as part of SeaBritain 2005, Portsmouth will be host to a series of spectacular events. Alternatively discover the River Thames – take time out to walk the Thames Path, visit one of the many attractions, hire a boat or simply relax by the riverside.Drop in to the city of BristolIn the last decade, Bristol has renewed its links with the sea in a way that has revitalised the entire city,through the redevelopment of Bristol’s harbourside. This area now boasts an unrivalled array of year-round attractions to suit all tastes, including excellent restaurants and At Bristol. Dip into a one-day tour and catch a ferry to see historic ships in the docks, such as Brunel’s ss Great Britain and explore the waterfront. For the more active, sailing, water ski-ing, windsurfing or even power boating in the Bristol Docks are all possibilities. The biggest harbourside event not to be missed is the Bristol Harbour Festival running from 31 July to 1 August, which is Bristol’s most spectacular waterside event. VisitBritain has produced a lavish 60 page free guide, saturated with information on waterside pursuits to be enjoyed in England, including listings of key events taking place in each region. It also includes a 16 page supplement on SeaBritain 2005 activities. For a free copy of the watersideEngland brochure call 0845 408 1805 or visit www.visitengland.com/waterside For further information on SeaBritain visit www.seabritain2005.com - ends -For further press information on watersideEngland please contact:Rae White/Trish GonzalezVisit Britain Press OfficeTel: 020 8563 3378/3351Email: rae.white@visitbritain.org/trish.gonzalez@visitbritain.org For more information about Waterscape.com please contact:Sharon AtkinsonBritish WaterwaysTel: 01923 201292Email: sharon.atkinson@waterscape.comFor more information about Tourism South East please contact:Karen RoebuckTourism South EastTel: 023 8062 5500Email: kroebuck@tourismse.comFor more information about Bristol City please contact:Sarah BennettBristol City Tel: 0117 946 2207Email: sarah_bennett@bristol-city.gov.ukFor more information on SeaBritain 2005 pleasecontact:Deirdre LivingstoneSeaBritain 2005Tel: 020 8312 8610Email: dlivingstone@nmm.ac.uk
Thursday, July 15, 2004
Thomsonfly announces winter routes - 15-Jul-04.
Thomsonfly announces winter routes - 15-Jul-04.: "Thomsonfly is looking to capture the winter sun, ski and shortbreaks markets with a series of flights launched for the winter season.
The TUI-owned airline will serve 13 destinations from its base at Coventry airport from the start of November, which means dropping four of its summer routes.
Thomsonfly is adding Alicante to its other Spanish destinations � Valencia, Palma and Malaga. It will be served five times a week with fares from �22 each way including taxes and charges"
The TUI-owned airline will serve 13 destinations from its base at Coventry airport from the start of November, which means dropping four of its summer routes.
Thomsonfly is adding Alicante to its other Spanish destinations � Valencia, Palma and Malaga. It will be served five times a week with fares from �22 each way including taxes and charges"
Details air travel booking tech & alliances
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "60 airlines generate 120% yearly online growth through e-Travel ASP booking engine"
Hungry? CNG Travel Group Plc appoints industry veteran to pursue aggressive European growth plans"
Hungry? CNG Travel Group Plc appoints industry veteran to pursue aggressive European growth plans"CNG is pleased to announce the appointment of Tim Wright as Senior Vice President of Business Development for the Group. Tim, was previously Vice President – Business Development for Worldspan, one of the four largest GDS’s for the travel industry for all new business in Europe, Middle east and Africa (‘EMEA’). (7/14/2004)
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During his 17 year tenure at Worldspan, Tim’s roles included heading up eCommerce for the EMEA region, and was successful in leading Worldspan into becoming the largest GDS for eCommerce in the UK, France and Germany, having successfully negotiated deals with online travel product distributors including lastminute.com and ebookers. Tim was also played a key part in Worldspan signing up over 5,000 travel agents in the UK through strategic deals with Thomas Cook, Going Places and MyTravel.
Tim’s role will be to develop further distribution and to negotiate partnerships in the EMEA region.
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During his 17 year tenure at Worldspan, Tim’s roles included heading up eCommerce for the EMEA region, and was successful in leading Worldspan into becoming the largest GDS for eCommerce in the UK, France and Germany, having successfully negotiated deals with online travel product distributors including lastminute.com and ebookers. Tim was also played a key part in Worldspan signing up over 5,000 travel agents in the UK through strategic deals with Thomas Cook, Going Places and MyTravel.
Tim’s role will be to develop further distribution and to negotiate partnerships in the EMEA region.
tWorld Travel & Tourism Council new research will be disclosed that spells out how 3 million jobs
travmedia.comMonday July 19, 2004, new research will be disclosed that spells out how 3 million jobs can be created in the new EU member states, and how GDP can be boosted by EUR46 billion. Jean-Claude Baumgarten, President of WTTC, will spell out how this can be done at a press conference at 10.30am on July 19, 2004, in Brussels.
Jean-Claude Baumgarten, President of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Lord Clement Jones, DLA Partner and Member of the WTTC EU Steering Committee, will spell out how this can be done, at a press conference at 10.30am on July 19, 2004. This event will take place in the Maelbeek Room of the International Press Centre, Brussels.
For further information please contact Joanne Fox-Mills, on + 44 20 7481 8007 or joannefm@wttc.org .
About the World Travel & Tourism Council
The World Travel & Tourism Council is the global business leaders’ forum for Travel & Tourism. Its Members are Chairmen, Chief Executives and Presidents of the world’s most prominent Travel & Tourism organizations. It is the only body, representing the private sector in all parts of the Travel & Tourism industry worldwide.
Jean-Claude Baumgarten, President of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Lord Clement Jones, DLA Partner and Member of the WTTC EU Steering Committee, will spell out how this can be done, at a press conference at 10.30am on July 19, 2004. This event will take place in the Maelbeek Room of the International Press Centre, Brussels.
For further information please contact Joanne Fox-Mills, on + 44 20 7481 8007 or joannefm@wttc.org .
About the World Travel & Tourism Council
The World Travel & Tourism Council is the global business leaders’ forum for Travel & Tourism. Its Members are Chairmen, Chief Executives and Presidents of the world’s most prominent Travel & Tourism organizations. It is the only body, representing the private sector in all parts of the Travel & Tourism industry worldwide.
Opodo Appoints New Members to its Executive Director Team
travmedia.com: ""Opodo, the pan-European online travel service have announced the appointment of several new members to its Executive Director Team. Matt Murphy joins as Chief Financial Officer, Luc Boucey has been appointed Acting Commercial Director and Vince Bourke will also be rejoining the company as Chief Operations Officer.
onlinetravel.com checklist
travmedia.com: "indispensable free guide, launched today (17 July 2004) to coincide with the start of the school holidays (and available at www.onlinetravel.com/features/checklist.asp ,) lists the 20 �must-dos� before you embark on your holiday. Each entry was voted upon by a team of professionals from the site, who collectively have visited 155 countries and flown over 10 million miles. "
Travelocity $5 booking fees to profit
TW Crossroads: "How does a corporate travel agency balance $5 booking fees with a viable business model?
Travelocity provided its answer: Re-engineer fulfillment technology to eliminate third-party vendors and drive down costs. "
Travelocity provided its answer: Re-engineer fulfillment technology to eliminate third-party vendors and drive down costs. "
Wednesday, July 14, 2004
Wotif Uni accomodation
travmedia.com: "Wotif.com, ( www.wotif.com ) the global specialist in last-minute accommodation, has teamed up with Kensington�s Imperial College London* and the exclusive Goodenough Club* in Bloomsbury to offer summer only accommodation from �22 per night. "
Active & TAs
travmedia.com: "Active Hotels And Visit Cambridge Delivering Over �2.2m Of Hotel Reservations Into Cambridge Per Annum 13 Jul 04
Active Hotels, Europe�s leading online hotel reservations provider has signed an agreement with Visit Cambridge, a city council funded organisation whose role is to maximise the benefits of tourism in one of the UK�s leading destinations.
This new partnership will provide an unrivalled accommodation booking service for anyone planning a trip to Cambridge and offer significant support to local enterprises that rely strongly on healthy tourism figures to sustain and enhance their business activities.
Nick Bolton, Head of Economic Development and Tourism, responsible for Visit Cambridge said: �The agreement with Active Hotels means that we can provide an excellent accommodation booking tool for our visitors and encourage more people to make the most of what Cambridge has to offer. One of Visit Cambridge�s main objectives is to convert day-to-stay visitors. Out of 4.6 million visitors per year, only 900,000 currently stay for a minimum of one night. Our goal is to promote more overnight stays by working closely with Active Hotels to provide an effective, user-friendly on-line booking service.�
Traditionally, tourism organisations have dealt with queries over the phone and provided an effective walk-in service. Today�s traveller is far more likely to look on the internet for an immediately accessible, convenient on-line service (preferable to holding on the phone or physically waiting in a queue). This new partnership focuses on improving the whole visitor experience, to bring it in line with customer expectations.
Visitors planning to visit Cambridge from home or abroad can now search and book online a wide variety of Cambridge properties, ranging from B"
Active Hotels, Europe�s leading online hotel reservations provider has signed an agreement with Visit Cambridge, a city council funded organisation whose role is to maximise the benefits of tourism in one of the UK�s leading destinations.
This new partnership will provide an unrivalled accommodation booking service for anyone planning a trip to Cambridge and offer significant support to local enterprises that rely strongly on healthy tourism figures to sustain and enhance their business activities.
Nick Bolton, Head of Economic Development and Tourism, responsible for Visit Cambridge said: �The agreement with Active Hotels means that we can provide an excellent accommodation booking tool for our visitors and encourage more people to make the most of what Cambridge has to offer. One of Visit Cambridge�s main objectives is to convert day-to-stay visitors. Out of 4.6 million visitors per year, only 900,000 currently stay for a minimum of one night. Our goal is to promote more overnight stays by working closely with Active Hotels to provide an effective, user-friendly on-line booking service.�
Traditionally, tourism organisations have dealt with queries over the phone and provided an effective walk-in service. Today�s traveller is far more likely to look on the internet for an immediately accessible, convenient on-line service (preferable to holding on the phone or physically waiting in a queue). This new partnership focuses on improving the whole visitor experience, to bring it in line with customer expectations.
Visitors planning to visit Cambridge from home or abroad can now search and book online a wide variety of Cambridge properties, ranging from B"
Tuesday, July 13, 2004
Online Travel Is Going Places
Online Travel Is Going Places: "Online travel will comprise 33% of all travel bookings by 2006, according to a PhoCusWright report released last week.
Online travel revenues will increase by 34% to reach 52.8 billion in 2004, compared to $39.4 billion in 2003. This represents a large increase from 1998, when early online travel sites accounted for just $3 billion in revenues, but still a far cry from the $120 billion worth of online travel revenues that come in through the phone...
While the pioneers of the online travel market, including Sabre (owner of Travelocity), Microsoft (spun off Expedia) and Preview Travel (bought by Sabre) struggled through early losses to lead the market today, competition from other travel sites like Orbitz, Hotwire and CheapTickets, as well as from the airlines, rail and rental car companies themselves, is helping the market explode. Meanwhile, hotels, travel agencies and tour companies are still just dipping their toe into the market, trying to find their own model, and still relying on third-party sites.
Worldwide, growth is still slow in Europe and Asia, but as the US market becomes settled and the best business models are established, and as young people used to e-commerce become prime travel bookers, those regions should see online travel markets emerge. "
Online travel revenues will increase by 34% to reach 52.8 billion in 2004, compared to $39.4 billion in 2003. This represents a large increase from 1998, when early online travel sites accounted for just $3 billion in revenues, but still a far cry from the $120 billion worth of online travel revenues that come in through the phone...
While the pioneers of the online travel market, including Sabre (owner of Travelocity), Microsoft (spun off Expedia) and Preview Travel (bought by Sabre) struggled through early losses to lead the market today, competition from other travel sites like Orbitz, Hotwire and CheapTickets, as well as from the airlines, rail and rental car companies themselves, is helping the market explode. Meanwhile, hotels, travel agencies and tour companies are still just dipping their toe into the market, trying to find their own model, and still relying on third-party sites.
Worldwide, growth is still slow in Europe and Asia, but as the US market becomes settled and the best business models are established, and as young people used to e-commerce become prime travel bookers, those regions should see online travel markets emerge. "
Government promises action over 'unbonded package holidays' - 12-Jul-04.
Government promises action over 'unbonded package holidays' - 12-Jul-04.
The issue of travel companies selling unbonded packages has been placed on the Government’s agenda following months of lobbying by the industry.
The Departments of Trade and Industry and of Transport have vowed to tackle the issue following a question being raised in the House of Commons by Mark Lazarowicz, MP for Edinburgh North and Leith.
The lobbying is being undertaken by small and medium operators that feel threatened by companies that are selling separate components of travel via a website. On the one hand the packages are effectively unbonded so holidaymakers are not protected against companies failing, and on the other hand it puts operators selling bonded holidays at a competitive disadvantage.
One such operator is Sunvil Holidays. Managing director, Noel Josephides is leading AITO’s lobbying campaign. He said: "Following months of inaction by the Government on this serious issue which threatens the very existence of smaller and medium sized tour operating companies (which are legally bound to buy expensive bonds), we are finally moving in the right direction."
AITO is urging its members to lobby their local MPs and says it will continue to fight until action is taken.
The issue of travel companies selling unbonded packages has been placed on the Government’s agenda following months of lobbying by the industry.
The Departments of Trade and Industry and of Transport have vowed to tackle the issue following a question being raised in the House of Commons by Mark Lazarowicz, MP for Edinburgh North and Leith.
The lobbying is being undertaken by small and medium operators that feel threatened by companies that are selling separate components of travel via a website. On the one hand the packages are effectively unbonded so holidaymakers are not protected against companies failing, and on the other hand it puts operators selling bonded holidays at a competitive disadvantage.
One such operator is Sunvil Holidays. Managing director, Noel Josephides is leading AITO’s lobbying campaign. He said: "Following months of inaction by the Government on this serious issue which threatens the very existence of smaller and medium sized tour operating companies (which are legally bound to buy expensive bonds), we are finally moving in the right direction."
AITO is urging its members to lobby their local MPs and says it will continue to fight until action is taken.
iMedia Connection: United Airlines Gets It
iMedia Connection: United Airlines Gets It: "United has taken what is normally an intrusion and transformed it so that it is a welcome customer service that I value and tell everyone I know about. It�s using technology to save me time and that�s the one commodity none of us will ever have enough of. They�ve reawakened me to their brand and given me hope that airlines will some day get that we are adults who shop for airlines based on price, flight times and destinations.
Those of us with kids aren�t jetting off at a moment�s notice because flights are on sale. We�re dragging our kids� equipment to football practice, simultaneously thinking through our pre-trip checklists while driving 65 in a 55 zone and eating McDonald�s because we�re out of lunchmeat again.
Branding is no longer about intrusive efforts to slap logos on everything in sight. It�s not about spending a small fortune on ads no one watches unless they�re funny. Today, branding is about customer service. If you want my attention and my money, go back to the basics. Save me money, reduce my risk, entertain me, or best of all, save me time. You get bonus points if you can combine any or all of the above.
Branding is now about the improvements in on-board meals that I can select from a menu, or choose to opt out of. It�s about the new uniforms that signal to United employees that it�s a new day, and to customers that United is cleaning up its act."
Those of us with kids aren�t jetting off at a moment�s notice because flights are on sale. We�re dragging our kids� equipment to football practice, simultaneously thinking through our pre-trip checklists while driving 65 in a 55 zone and eating McDonald�s because we�re out of lunchmeat again.
Branding is no longer about intrusive efforts to slap logos on everything in sight. It�s not about spending a small fortune on ads no one watches unless they�re funny. Today, branding is about customer service. If you want my attention and my money, go back to the basics. Save me money, reduce my risk, entertain me, or best of all, save me time. You get bonus points if you can combine any or all of the above.
Branding is now about the improvements in on-board meals that I can select from a menu, or choose to opt out of. It�s about the new uniforms that signal to United employees that it�s a new day, and to customers that United is cleaning up its act."
Travelzoo Launches SuperSearch(TM) / July 2004
Link: Travelzoo - SuperSearch
Article; Travelzoo Launches SuperSearch(TM) / July 2004: "Travelzoo Launches SuperSearch(TM)
.
New Intelligent Web Tool Allows Consumers to Search User-Recommended
Sites for Best Travel Deals
NEW YORK, July 12, 2004 - Travelzoo (Nasdaq: TZOO), a leading online travel media company, today announced that it is entering the cost-per-click search business with the launch of SuperSearch(TM), an innovative tool that allows consumers to search multiple travel Web sites, including low-cost carriers. Available at http://www.travelzoo.com/supersearch, the new tool provides the most relevant and high-quality information in less time and links consumers directly to the best airline and hotel deals on the Internet.
'With the addition of SuperSearch to our portfolio of products, Travelzoo will be a more complete and comprehensive provider of travel content because we can now service consumers who have concrete travel plans,' said Ralph Bartel, CEO of Travelzoo. 'We have become a trusted information source and SuperSearch is an important extension of that value.'
SuperSearch simply requires that users enter their search criteria only once and it returns the most relevant and recommended travel company Web sites. The results are based on feedback from thousands of users. Priority placement is based on cost-per-click rates. With every search, SuperSearch will become more intelligent by analyzing and incorporating user data, ensuring that the results will be valuable to the consumer and effective for advertisers.
The benefits of SuperSearch include:
Saves time -- Enter the information only once and the tool allows users to search multiple travel sites, resulting in fewer clicks
Saves money -- Find the best flight or hotel options through SuperSearch's recommended sites. Searches automatically "
Article; Travelzoo Launches SuperSearch(TM) / July 2004: "Travelzoo Launches SuperSearch(TM)
.
New Intelligent Web Tool Allows Consumers to Search User-Recommended
Sites for Best Travel Deals
NEW YORK, July 12, 2004 - Travelzoo (Nasdaq: TZOO), a leading online travel media company, today announced that it is entering the cost-per-click search business with the launch of SuperSearch(TM), an innovative tool that allows consumers to search multiple travel Web sites, including low-cost carriers. Available at http://www.travelzoo.com/supersearch, the new tool provides the most relevant and high-quality information in less time and links consumers directly to the best airline and hotel deals on the Internet.
'With the addition of SuperSearch to our portfolio of products, Travelzoo will be a more complete and comprehensive provider of travel content because we can now service consumers who have concrete travel plans,' said Ralph Bartel, CEO of Travelzoo. 'We have become a trusted information source and SuperSearch is an important extension of that value.'
SuperSearch simply requires that users enter their search criteria only once and it returns the most relevant and recommended travel company Web sites. The results are based on feedback from thousands of users. Priority placement is based on cost-per-click rates. With every search, SuperSearch will become more intelligent by analyzing and incorporating user data, ensuring that the results will be valuable to the consumer and effective for advertisers.
The benefits of SuperSearch include:
Saves time -- Enter the information only once and the tool allows users to search multiple travel sites, resulting in fewer clicks
Saves money -- Find the best flight or hotel options through SuperSearch's recommended sites. Searches automatically "
ATP International (UK) The New Big (HUNGRY) Fish in Business Travel
ATP International (UK): "The New Big Fish in Business Travel
ATP International - the Advanced Travel Partner, bounces on to the UK business travel scene as the country�s seventh biggest corporate travel specialist.
The half billion Euro turnover company has been formed as a result of the coming together of Ayscough and Seaforths, both highly respected top twenty UK travel agents. The two companies are now owned by the parent company of Netherlands-based ATP, one of Holland�s leading corporate and leisure travel specialists.
ATPI also has offices throughout the Netherlands and sells to thousands of people through the Internet. Their major corporate clients include the Dutch Government, Ajax Football Club and Heineken. The coming together of Ayscough and Seaforths make us, with ATPI in the Netherlands, well able to expand ATPI�s operations throughout Europe and further afield.
Graham Ramsey, the chief executive of ATPI, says that he aims to make the group one of Europe�s leading travel agencies:
�Further acquisitions will follow in other parts of Europe and further afield.
The immediate positive consequence of forming a larger group is our greatly enhanced buying power, which is essential to play a role in this market."
ATP International - the Advanced Travel Partner, bounces on to the UK business travel scene as the country�s seventh biggest corporate travel specialist.
The half billion Euro turnover company has been formed as a result of the coming together of Ayscough and Seaforths, both highly respected top twenty UK travel agents. The two companies are now owned by the parent company of Netherlands-based ATP, one of Holland�s leading corporate and leisure travel specialists.
ATPI also has offices throughout the Netherlands and sells to thousands of people through the Internet. Their major corporate clients include the Dutch Government, Ajax Football Club and Heineken. The coming together of Ayscough and Seaforths make us, with ATPI in the Netherlands, well able to expand ATPI�s operations throughout Europe and further afield.
Graham Ramsey, the chief executive of ATPI, says that he aims to make the group one of Europe�s leading travel agencies:
�Further acquisitions will follow in other parts of Europe and further afield.
The immediate positive consequence of forming a larger group is our greatly enhanced buying power, which is essential to play a role in this market."
More on GetThere Lawyers travel service ( part of Sabre)
GetThere | Press Release | GetThere Expands in France: "Using the GetThere DirectMidMarket technology, The Lawyers' Travel Service can design and customize individual sites that reflect each client firm's corporate image, policies and discounts. LawyersTravelOnline is the only online travel reservation solution with features designed to benefit the traveling attorney, such as automated capture of client/matter numbers to facilitate client billing. Other features include:
LawFare�, a proprietary airline discount program with savings up to 25% offered exclusively by LawyersTravelOnline
Hotel discounts up to 47% off published rates negotiated at deluxe properties throughout the world that are preferred by attorneys
Web fares up to 70% off regularly published fares -- Firm-specific travel policies and negotiated contracts that can be loaded to enhance compliance
Meeting planning tools through GetThere DirectMeetings(TM) technology, which allows meeting site selection, automated attendee management and group travel booking from one integrated location
Access to Integrated display and management of published and special Web-only options through GetThere Web Connect(TM) -- to view and book published, negotiated rates and special fares from a variety of sources (GDSs, airline Web sites, rail, no-frill carriers)
Access to airfares from all major carriers, including discount carriers, such as Southwest and JetBlue, not offered on some of the popular leisure sites
Travel alerts and itinerary information including flight status, schedules, gate and baggage carousel information that is available directly from Web phones, PDAs, and Blackberry� devices "
LawFare�, a proprietary airline discount program with savings up to 25% offered exclusively by LawyersTravelOnline
Hotel discounts up to 47% off published rates negotiated at deluxe properties throughout the world that are preferred by attorneys
Web fares up to 70% off regularly published fares -- Firm-specific travel policies and negotiated contracts that can be loaded to enhance compliance
Meeting planning tools through GetThere DirectMeetings(TM) technology, which allows meeting site selection, automated attendee management and group travel booking from one integrated location
Access to Integrated display and management of published and special Web-only options through GetThere Web Connect(TM) -- to view and book published, negotiated rates and special fares from a variety of sources (GDSs, airline Web sites, rail, no-frill carriers)
Access to airfares from all major carriers, including discount carriers, such as Southwest and JetBlue, not offered on some of the popular leisure sites
Travel alerts and itinerary information including flight status, schedules, gate and baggage carousel information that is available directly from Web phones, PDAs, and Blackberry� devices "
Sponsors sought for AU Travel Journalism Awards for Excellence
travmedia.com: "Sponsorship Opportunity: Australian Society of Travel Writers Travel Journalism Awards For Excellence 2004 12 Jul 04
The Australian Society of Travel Writers is seeking expressions of interest from organisations who may wish to sponsor a component of the major prizes for the annual Travel Journalism Awards for Excellence in 2004.
Specifically, the Society is seeking sponsorship of the prize money to accompany the major airline and accommodation prizes for the Travel Writer of the Year - Destination; Travel Writer of the Year - Trade/Industry; and Photograph of the Year awards.
If your organisation can supply the above prize and is interested in being part of this prestigious event, please contact Kris Madden for further details on 0418 20 30 65 or via email to secretariat@astw.org.au by Wednesday 14 July"
The Australian Society of Travel Writers is seeking expressions of interest from organisations who may wish to sponsor a component of the major prizes for the annual Travel Journalism Awards for Excellence in 2004.
Specifically, the Society is seeking sponsorship of the prize money to accompany the major airline and accommodation prizes for the Travel Writer of the Year - Destination; Travel Writer of the Year - Trade/Industry; and Photograph of the Year awards.
If your organisation can supply the above prize and is interested in being part of this prestigious event, please contact Kris Madden for further details on 0418 20 30 65 or via email to secretariat@astw.org.au by Wednesday 14 July"
Groople group bookings
Link: Groople - Group Travel Made Easy - Group Hotels Search
Article: TW Crossroads: "ENVER -- A new firm here called Groople (as in groups of people) hopes to make the booking of leisure groups the next trendy niche among online agencies and build on GDS shortcomings in this arena to ease the group reservations process for traditional agencies...
CEO David Loy, formerly a managing director of Trip.com, noted that the GDSs neglected to develop technology to automate the booking process for the so-called Smerf (social, military, education, religious and fraternal) group market, estimated at between $18 billion and $24 billion.
A source at one GDS confirmed that when it comes to booking more than four rooms for leisure groups, GDSs routinely advise agents to phone hotels' group bookings departments, or revenue management systems kick in, making it difficult to obtain group rates.
Groople's main thrust will be selling to consumers through online agencies, supplier sites and Groople.com. It plans to spend $5 million on branding in the first quarter of 2005.
Groople.com features hotel inventory from third parties such as Hotels.com and also hosts rooms in its inventory management system. The firm's business currently operates on a commission basis, but Groople's business model calls for developing direct connects to hotel chains and developing a wholesale business.
Loy said the company has a partnership with Best Western and is negotiating relationships with other chains. It also is talking with Worldspan about an airline product. He said Sabre will play a role, although he declined to be specific.
Using the Groople product, consumers can book five or more rooms, and group leaders can manage the process.
Suppliers, according to Groople, can "dynamically change availability and price any time through a password-protected extranet."
A recent search on Groople .com for a group booking for a class reunion in Atlanta spit out accommodations options at numerous major hotels. Many, however, involved requesting a price quote from the hotel rather than automated bookings.
Loy noted that a lack of real-time rates is more of a business issue than a technology one because hotels want to control group bookings. Some 7,000 of the 56,000 properties in the system feature what the company calls "real-time group rates."
A company-staffed call center can handle complex bookings.
Loy said the firm spent two years and $3 million developing its software, which is built on a Microsoft.NET platform.
Groople plans to use an API [application program interface] model to power online agency and supplier sites on a co-branded or private-label basis, Loy said. "
Article: TW Crossroads: "ENVER -- A new firm here called Groople (as in groups of people) hopes to make the booking of leisure groups the next trendy niche among online agencies and build on GDS shortcomings in this arena to ease the group reservations process for traditional agencies...
CEO David Loy, formerly a managing director of Trip.com, noted that the GDSs neglected to develop technology to automate the booking process for the so-called Smerf (social, military, education, religious and fraternal) group market, estimated at between $18 billion and $24 billion.
A source at one GDS confirmed that when it comes to booking more than four rooms for leisure groups, GDSs routinely advise agents to phone hotels' group bookings departments, or revenue management systems kick in, making it difficult to obtain group rates.
Groople's main thrust will be selling to consumers through online agencies, supplier sites and Groople.com. It plans to spend $5 million on branding in the first quarter of 2005.
Groople.com features hotel inventory from third parties such as Hotels.com and also hosts rooms in its inventory management system. The firm's business currently operates on a commission basis, but Groople's business model calls for developing direct connects to hotel chains and developing a wholesale business.
Loy said the company has a partnership with Best Western and is negotiating relationships with other chains. It also is talking with Worldspan about an airline product. He said Sabre will play a role, although he declined to be specific.
Using the Groople product, consumers can book five or more rooms, and group leaders can manage the process.
Suppliers, according to Groople, can "dynamically change availability and price any time through a password-protected extranet."
A recent search on Groople .com for a group booking for a class reunion in Atlanta spit out accommodations options at numerous major hotels. Many, however, involved requesting a price quote from the hotel rather than automated bookings.
Loy noted that a lack of real-time rates is more of a business issue than a technology one because hotels want to control group bookings. Some 7,000 of the 56,000 properties in the system feature what the company calls "real-time group rates."
A company-staffed call center can handle complex bookings.
Loy said the firm spent two years and $3 million developing its software, which is built on a Microsoft.NET platform.
Groople plans to use an API [application program interface] model to power online agency and supplier sites on a co-branded or private-label basis, Loy said. "
Monday, July 12, 2004
Race for fully-bookable rail product for Europe"
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "the race was on between European corporate self-booking tool providers to see who would be the first to come up with a fully-bookable rail product for Europe"
Leading corporate online travel reservation system GetThere has formed a European team to expand the amount of rail travel its customers can book. (7/12/2004)
The system currently allows British users to book on Eurostar and on domestic rail networks. It wants to expand this capability across Europe and to include bookable content from rail operators in Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy and the Benelux region.
GetThere’s European rail team will work in tandem with Sabre Travel Network developers to build bookable rail content into the system. They will also work independently.
“The objective is to get good, solid bookable rail content into the GetThere system, and we’ll work with whoever we can to make that happen,” Widener said. “GetThere has the advantage of complete GDS neutrality and this appeals to rail operators and some of the third-party content providers with whom we’ve had discussions.”
GetThere | Products | GetThere DirectMidMarketGetThere is the world's leading online corporate travel reservation technology, and is one of the key solutions offered to the corporate marketplace by Sabre Holdings. GetThere enables global corporations and government agencies to provide a convenient way for employees to book travel and plan meetings while significantly reducing costs. GetThere's advanced technology works with all major global distribution systems (GDS) and all travel management companies. More than 1,000 corporations, including 65 percent share of the Fortune 200, use GetThere. More information is available at
Leading corporate online travel reservation system GetThere has formed a European team to expand the amount of rail travel its customers can book. (7/12/2004)
The system currently allows British users to book on Eurostar and on domestic rail networks. It wants to expand this capability across Europe and to include bookable content from rail operators in Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy and the Benelux region.
GetThere’s European rail team will work in tandem with Sabre Travel Network developers to build bookable rail content into the system. They will also work independently.
“The objective is to get good, solid bookable rail content into the GetThere system, and we’ll work with whoever we can to make that happen,” Widener said. “GetThere has the advantage of complete GDS neutrality and this appeals to rail operators and some of the third-party content providers with whom we’ve had discussions.”
GetThere | Products | GetThere DirectMidMarketGetThere is the world's leading online corporate travel reservation technology, and is one of the key solutions offered to the corporate marketplace by Sabre Holdings. GetThere enables global corporations and government agencies to provide a convenient way for employees to book travel and plan meetings while significantly reducing costs. GetThere's advanced technology works with all major global distribution systems (GDS) and all travel management companies. More than 1,000 corporations, including 65 percent share of the Fortune 200, use GetThere. More information is available at
top 10 UK travel agencies
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "Top 10 Global 'Travel - Agencies' sites for the week ending 10 July, 2004 based on VISITS"
"First National Conference of Visitor Attractions (VAC2004) on 12 October 2004. " travmedia.com
travmedia.com: Chaired by former Tourism Minister and ALVA Chairman, John Lee, the not-for-profit event is developed around a number of key themes including:
· the latest industry developments and opportunities for the sector
· evaluating strategies to stay one step ahead of competitors
· innovative marketing strategies to maximise tourism spending
· up-to-the-minute market research
· the expert views and analysis of key industry speakers
The event coincides with the launch of VisitBritain and the national tourist boards’ 2003 Visits to Visitor Attractions Survey which lists visitor figures for nearly 3,000 individual attractions and outlines the top-line trends by attraction category and each country and English region.
To find out more details about the First National Conference of Visitor Attractions in London on 12 October 2004, and to register
.:VAC 2004:.
For further information, please contact:
Elliott Frisby, Press and PR Officer, VisitBritain on 020 8563 3035, mob: 07951 996241
Notes to Editors
· VisitBritain markets Britain to the rest of the world and England to the British, building the value of tourism by creating world class destination brands and marketing campaigns. It also builds partnerships with - and provides insights to - other organisations which have a stake in British and English tourism
· Latest figures show that in 2003 there were 24.8 million overseas visitors (3% increase compared to 2002) to the UK who spent £11.9 billion, a 1% increase on 2002. Domestic visitor figures for the full year 2003 will be available later in the year, but in 2002 134.9 million visits were made by UK residents to England (2.3% increase on 2001), spending £20.8 billion – a rise of 2.5% compared to 2001
· VisitBritain offers a range of marketing opportunities and services for UK operators wishing to reach overseas markets. For further details, visit the website, www.visitbritain.com/ukindustry
· An archive of media releases, information on VisitBritain's marketing activities, around 100 print quality, free-to-download images and more details about the work of VisitBritain in promoting Britain as a destination, can be found on VisitBritain’s new online press centre, www.visitbritain.com/presscentre
· Awarded TIC of the Year at the London Tourism Awards 2003, the Britain and London Visitor Centre (BLVC) boasts a new London-specific information desk, accommodation and ticket booking facilities, computer access to the VisitBritain and Visit London websites, a bureau de change and pay phones. The BLVC also provides the tourism industry with exhibition space, presentation facilities and a conference room
· the latest industry developments and opportunities for the sector
· evaluating strategies to stay one step ahead of competitors
· innovative marketing strategies to maximise tourism spending
· up-to-the-minute market research
· the expert views and analysis of key industry speakers
The event coincides with the launch of VisitBritain and the national tourist boards’ 2003 Visits to Visitor Attractions Survey which lists visitor figures for nearly 3,000 individual attractions and outlines the top-line trends by attraction category and each country and English region.
To find out more details about the First National Conference of Visitor Attractions in London on 12 October 2004, and to register
.:VAC 2004:.
For further information, please contact:
Elliott Frisby, Press and PR Officer, VisitBritain on 020 8563 3035, mob: 07951 996241
Notes to Editors
· VisitBritain markets Britain to the rest of the world and England to the British, building the value of tourism by creating world class destination brands and marketing campaigns. It also builds partnerships with - and provides insights to - other organisations which have a stake in British and English tourism
· Latest figures show that in 2003 there were 24.8 million overseas visitors (3% increase compared to 2002) to the UK who spent £11.9 billion, a 1% increase on 2002. Domestic visitor figures for the full year 2003 will be available later in the year, but in 2002 134.9 million visits were made by UK residents to England (2.3% increase on 2001), spending £20.8 billion – a rise of 2.5% compared to 2001
· VisitBritain offers a range of marketing opportunities and services for UK operators wishing to reach overseas markets. For further details, visit the website, www.visitbritain.com/ukindustry
· An archive of media releases, information on VisitBritain's marketing activities, around 100 print quality, free-to-download images and more details about the work of VisitBritain in promoting Britain as a destination, can be found on VisitBritain’s new online press centre, www.visitbritain.com/presscentre
· Awarded TIC of the Year at the London Tourism Awards 2003, the Britain and London Visitor Centre (BLVC) boasts a new London-specific information desk, accommodation and ticket booking facilities, computer access to the VisitBritain and Visit London websites, a bureau de change and pay phones. The BLVC also provides the tourism industry with exhibition space, presentation facilities and a conference room
What do to do when it rains in Scotland .. go Caribbean
travmedia.com: "Thousands of Scottish holiday makers have been booking last minute deals to foreign climes this summer in an attempt to escape the heavy rain fall that has hit many parts of Scotland for much of the summer.
The unpredictability of the weather in Scotland has lead to an upsurge in last minute bookings which can often be obtained for a fraction of the usual price. "
The unpredictability of the weather in Scotland has lead to an upsurge in last minute bookings which can often be obtained for a fraction of the usual price. "
AirText SMS flights info
main_template: "AirText b2b
AirText is a system that captures, aggregates, monitors and deploys flight status information via mobile channels. With over 20 airports on board, it is already the most comprehensive and accurate source of this information in the UK."
AirText is a system that captures, aggregates, monitors and deploys flight status information via mobile channels. With over 20 airports on board, it is already the most comprehensive and accurate source of this information in the UK."
Saturday, July 10, 2004
BBC NEWS | UK | England | North Yorkshire | Chance to invest in rail service
BBC NEWS | UK | England | North Yorkshire | Chance to invest in rail service: "Chance to invest in rail service
Wensleydale Railway Plc has operated the line for 12 months
People living in North Yorkshire are being given the chance to buy shares in a local railway."
Wensleydale Railway Plc has operated the line for 12 months
People living in North Yorkshire are being given the chance to buy shares in a local railway."
Friday, July 09, 2004
Active Hotels launches new web-site to meet increased consumer demand - 30-Jun-04.
Active Hotels launches new web-site to meet increased consumer demand - 30-Jun-04.: ", Cambridge, 30th June 2004: Active Hotels has launched www.activereservations.com, its new hotel booking site, following extensive research into consumer needs and behaviour.
The site has a number of innovative features and includes unbiased feedback from recent guests who have stayed in the properties. In addition, the site focuses on cutting unnecessary browsing time, and ensures accurate, rapid, intelligent searches across an extensive network of 7,000 European hotels, ranging from B&B’s to 5 star luxury properties.
As a leading European hotel reservation provider, Active Hotels processes over 0.2 billion room nights per annum and has direct relations with all of its hotels, ensuring a superior quality service can be delivered, as well as excellent prices and availability.
Luke Errington, Consumer Team Manager said: “Our internal research shows that 98% of our customers have indicated that they are likely to recommend our web-site which is exceedingly encouraging. Our goal is to continue to grow user-confidence by improving and building new features into the site so that customers trust us to find the right hotel at the right price.”
A highlight of the new site is the ‘Guest Review’ initiative, recently launched to help improve levels of trust amongst browsers. By sending an email questionnaire to guests after they have checked out of their hotels, Active Reservations has been able to collate unique data to display on-line. The questionnaire asks for a rating on a number of guest experiences such as the on-line booking process, the quality of service, order and cleanliness of the hotel, overall value for money etc. Subsequently the scores are posted on www.activereservations.com for the relevant hotel, helping to inspire confidence that a chosen hotel will meet expectations. With over 500 hotels being reviewed every day, the service is proving indispensable for users.
Another principle feature of the site is fast-track searching. In addition to specifying a location, a user can further filter their search by ticking a choice of check-boxes such as ‘free parking’, ‘internet facilities’, ‘swimming pool’ etc. The search will then return all hotels in their chosen location which have these facilities available.
Furthermore, should users misspell a location the search function will return sensible suggestions in anticipation of what is truly being searched for. This particular feature has been developed to assist with searching for foreign or complicated place names.
As a result of Active Hotels’ commitment to market research and continued investment in developing smart but simple search interfaces, www.activereservations.com will be continually improved and a number of additional new features will be made available over the coming months. The aim is to lead the industry with innovative features that enable consumers, hotels and affiliates to benefit.
-End-
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About Active Hotels
Active Hotels is Europe’s leading online reservations provider, offering the best choice of hotels and room prices available across Europe via its booking interface: www.activereservations.com. The company works with 7,000 leading European hotels, which it promotes across hundreds of distribution partner websites and electronic networks.
Active Hotels is rapidly growing its hotel base to reach over 10,000 European properties by the end of 2004. The company is predicted to process over €200 million worth of bookings for hotels throughout Europe in 2004.
For further information visit: www.activehotels.com
Press contact
Mandy Zakhour, European Media Relations & Communications, Active Hotels
Tel: +44 (0)1223 578134 Email: mandy@activehotels.com
The site has a number of innovative features and includes unbiased feedback from recent guests who have stayed in the properties. In addition, the site focuses on cutting unnecessary browsing time, and ensures accurate, rapid, intelligent searches across an extensive network of 7,000 European hotels, ranging from B&B’s to 5 star luxury properties.
As a leading European hotel reservation provider, Active Hotels processes over 0.2 billion room nights per annum and has direct relations with all of its hotels, ensuring a superior quality service can be delivered, as well as excellent prices and availability.
Luke Errington, Consumer Team Manager said: “Our internal research shows that 98% of our customers have indicated that they are likely to recommend our web-site which is exceedingly encouraging. Our goal is to continue to grow user-confidence by improving and building new features into the site so that customers trust us to find the right hotel at the right price.”
A highlight of the new site is the ‘Guest Review’ initiative, recently launched to help improve levels of trust amongst browsers. By sending an email questionnaire to guests after they have checked out of their hotels, Active Reservations has been able to collate unique data to display on-line. The questionnaire asks for a rating on a number of guest experiences such as the on-line booking process, the quality of service, order and cleanliness of the hotel, overall value for money etc. Subsequently the scores are posted on www.activereservations.com for the relevant hotel, helping to inspire confidence that a chosen hotel will meet expectations. With over 500 hotels being reviewed every day, the service is proving indispensable for users.
Another principle feature of the site is fast-track searching. In addition to specifying a location, a user can further filter their search by ticking a choice of check-boxes such as ‘free parking’, ‘internet facilities’, ‘swimming pool’ etc. The search will then return all hotels in their chosen location which have these facilities available.
Furthermore, should users misspell a location the search function will return sensible suggestions in anticipation of what is truly being searched for. This particular feature has been developed to assist with searching for foreign or complicated place names.
As a result of Active Hotels’ commitment to market research and continued investment in developing smart but simple search interfaces, www.activereservations.com will be continually improved and a number of additional new features will be made available over the coming months. The aim is to lead the industry with innovative features that enable consumers, hotels and affiliates to benefit.
-End-
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About Active Hotels
Active Hotels is Europe’s leading online reservations provider, offering the best choice of hotels and room prices available across Europe via its booking interface: www.activereservations.com. The company works with 7,000 leading European hotels, which it promotes across hundreds of distribution partner websites and electronic networks.
Active Hotels is rapidly growing its hotel base to reach over 10,000 European properties by the end of 2004. The company is predicted to process over €200 million worth of bookings for hotels throughout Europe in 2004.
For further information visit: www.activehotels.com
Press contact
Mandy Zakhour, European Media Relations & Communications, Active Hotels
Tel: +44 (0)1223 578134 Email: mandy@activehotels.com
Big Four share of UK holiday capacity drops to under 50% - 05-Jul-04.
Big Four share of UK holiday capacity drops to under 50% - 05-Jul-04.: "The eight largest tour operators in the UK have cut capacity by 8% this year, in contrast to fierce growth from the two leading online retailers, which have together trebled their capacity.
According to statistics from the CAA for the current year the TUI Group and Thomas Cook Group have cut capacity by 4%, MyTravel Group has cut by 9% and First Choice Holidays Group by 17%. Cosmos has also cut by 4% this year, Trailfinders by 14% and Libra Holidays Group by 6%. The combined reduction in capacity of the eight groups, year-on-year, is 1.4 million passengers.
In stark contrast Lastminute Group has boosted capacity by 284% and the InterActive Corporation Group, which includes Expedia.com, has increased capacity by 147%. Together they have added 0.7 million passengers"
According to statistics from the CAA for the current year the TUI Group and Thomas Cook Group have cut capacity by 4%, MyTravel Group has cut by 9% and First Choice Holidays Group by 17%. Cosmos has also cut by 4% this year, Trailfinders by 14% and Libra Holidays Group by 6%. The combined reduction in capacity of the eight groups, year-on-year, is 1.4 million passengers.
In stark contrast Lastminute Group has boosted capacity by 284% and the InterActive Corporation Group, which includes Expedia.com, has increased capacity by 147%. Together they have added 0.7 million passengers"
Opodo chief Scowsill quits - 09-Jul-04. Is alll well at Opodo?
Opodo chief Scowsill quits - 09-Jul-04.: "Opodo chief executive David Scowsill has quit less than a month after Amadeus took a controlling stake in the online travel service.
Mr Scowsill, who joined the company in September 2002, is leaving �to pursue new opportunities,� the company said.
Bart Tompkins, from Amadeus has been appointed as acting CEO. Mr Tompkins has been a member of the Opodo board since April 2003.
Mr Scowsill said: 'This is a new and exciting time for Opodo, as it moves forward to the next stage of development. However after careful consideration, I feel it is the right time for the business, and the right time for me, to move on.
'I have built up a strong team and know that Opodo will continue to go from strength to strength and achieve its goal of becoming one of the top three European online travel services.'
Amadeus took a 55% controlling interest in Opodo in June."
Mr Scowsill, who joined the company in September 2002, is leaving �to pursue new opportunities,� the company said.
Bart Tompkins, from Amadeus has been appointed as acting CEO. Mr Tompkins has been a member of the Opodo board since April 2003.
Mr Scowsill said: 'This is a new and exciting time for Opodo, as it moves forward to the next stage of development. However after careful consideration, I feel it is the right time for the business, and the right time for me, to move on.
'I have built up a strong team and know that Opodo will continue to go from strength to strength and achieve its goal of becoming one of the top three European online travel services.'
Amadeus took a 55% controlling interest in Opodo in June."
visitbritain so british £500,000 campaignVisitors to UK not spending enough - 08-Jul-04.
Visitors to UK not spending enough - 08-Jul-04.: "So British is part of a �500,000 campaign in the US called Good Living, aimed at positioning Britain as a luxury destination. "
Boyles take control of CV Travel - 08-Jul-04. Investors / buyers?
Boyles take control of CV Travel - 08-Jul-04.: "Former Direct Holidays boss John Boyle and his brother Hugh have taken a controlling interest in up-market villa specialist CV Travel.
Terms of the deal for London-based CV Travel have not been disclosed. AITO member CV Travel has a �10 million annual turnover with an average holiday selling price of �1,000 per person.
The Boyles, owners of low cost Canadian carrier Zoom Airlines and Glasgow-based Go Direct Travel, pledged to maintain CV's 'independence and high standards of personal service and attention to detail'."
Terms of the deal for London-based CV Travel have not been disclosed. AITO member CV Travel has a �10 million annual turnover with an average holiday selling price of �1,000 per person.
The Boyles, owners of low cost Canadian carrier Zoom Airlines and Glasgow-based Go Direct Travel, pledged to maintain CV's 'independence and high standards of personal service and attention to detail'."
eyefortravel.com - WTM annual conference
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "EyeforTravel are currently putting the agenda together for this year's annual conference in conjunction with WTM - and we want to hear from you. (7/8/2004)
� Print Version
� Send to a Friend
This information packed one-day event will be taking place on 9th November at ExCel in London with the working title of 'Discover how to maximise the global impact of your marketing, pricing and distribution strategies'. As with all EyeforTravel events we want to make sure that you receive a well-balanced, innovative and informative briefing which will ensure that you profit from the conference and take away essential best practice strategies. This is why we want to hear from you. If you are a senior level executive and feel that you would be able to contribute to this event or have any thoughts on additional issues/topics that you feel need to be covered then please contact Laura, the Conference Director on laura@eyefortravel.com A rough agenda can be found on: www.eyefortravel.com/wtm2004
Author:"
� Print Version
� Send to a Friend
This information packed one-day event will be taking place on 9th November at ExCel in London with the working title of 'Discover how to maximise the global impact of your marketing, pricing and distribution strategies'. As with all EyeforTravel events we want to make sure that you receive a well-balanced, innovative and informative briefing which will ensure that you profit from the conference and take away essential best practice strategies. This is why we want to hear from you. If you are a senior level executive and feel that you would be able to contribute to this event or have any thoughts on additional issues/topics that you feel need to be covered then please contact Laura, the Conference Director on laura@eyefortravel.com A rough agenda can be found on: www.eyefortravel.com/wtm2004
Author:"
Manston Airport, Kent Guardian Unlimited Travel | News | Airfield pair refuse to jump
Guardian Unlimited Travel | News | Airfield pair refuse to jumpPlans to launch low-cost flights from the former Battle of Britain airport at Manston, Kent, were thrown into doubt yesterday by a boardroom row and a financial crisis at the airfield's owner, PlaneStation.
First48 and TourCMS Join Forces
First48 and TourCMS Join ForcesFirst48 Travel has announced plans to sell 40% of its entire product through agents by 2005 using the TourCMS system. (7/8/2004)
» Print Version
» Send to a Friend
First48 becomes the first company to integrate the TourCMS system into their existing web engine, allowing them to distribute their product directly into agent's websites and third-party travel portals.
Consumers will be able to view First48's latest tours on agent sites and make bookings on the linked First48.com website. TourCMS then tracks visitors to ensure that all bookings and commissions are allocated to the agent.
www.travelucd.com
www.first48.com
» Print Version
» Send to a Friend
First48 becomes the first company to integrate the TourCMS system into their existing web engine, allowing them to distribute their product directly into agent's websites and third-party travel portals.
Consumers will be able to view First48's latest tours on agent sites and make bookings on the linked First48.com website. TourCMS then tracks visitors to ensure that all bookings and commissions are allocated to the agent.
www.travelucd.com
www.first48.com
the launch of TourCMS, a pioneering travel website management system competitors general
travmedia.com: "System To Revolutionise Web Opportunities For Agents And Operators Launched"
Agents and operators are to benefit from revolutionary new powers to sell online and to target customers through innovative content management technologies including XML and RSS, following the launch of TourCMS, a pioneering travel website management system.
TourCMS, developed by leading travel industry consultancy Travel UCD, enables operators and agents to sell through their own websites and third-party portals.
From launch, the XML-based system becomes the only off-the-shelf solution allowing operators and agents to manage web bookings, web content, web distribution and web marketing, and is available for an annual licence fee starting from just £400.
Through TourCMS agents can sell product from their partner operators, as the solution enables third-parties to upload bookable content through any web browser. To obtain the same functionality presently, companies must develop their own systems or invest thousands of pounds in a range of disparate applications.
The system allows users to manage inventory and content, sell through their own website or other web portals, generate customer invoices and other stationery, and track the success of online marketing campaigns.
TourCMS also becomes the industry’s first solution to offer Really Simple Syndication (RSS) technology, which is predicted to revolutionise how holiday offers are communicated to consumers. RSS bypasses the internet or email to automatically inform customers when new information from a ‘tagged’ website is available, meaning agents’ customers can now be instantly alerted every time a new deal is launched.
TourCMS integrates into its customers’ existing websites and can be installed and managed centrally or by any web design agency. Users enjoy complete control over their site’s design and content, with TourCMS powering their operations.
Alex Bainbridge, Travel UCD’s CEO said: “Our aim for TourCMS is to create the Microsoft Word of travel website management. The system is incredibly affordable, easy to integrate and simple to use, and means agents and operators can now claim a greater share of the prodigious online market.
“RSS is used by websites such as Reuters and BBC to offer constant news feeds – now innovative agents can provide their customers with live late deals and even latest industry news. This will be the next big revolution in travel retailing.”
More information on TourCMS is available from www.tourcms.com.
- Ends -
Notes to editors:
About Travel UCD
Travel UCD (www.travelucd.com) is the leading consultancy specialising in travel and hospitality website design and usability. The company was formed in Spring 2002 and is headquartered in Southampton.
Travel UCD provides a full range of design management and evaluation services to the online travel and hospitality sector in the UK and Europe.
Rather than build HTML, develop code or design graphics, Travel UCD works with a company’s web production team and technology suppliers to create front-ends which improve site usability and drive increased conversion rates.
Alongside specific design consultancy projects for clients, Travel UCD undertakes primary research creating reports on user interface and user experience issues.
For further information please contact:
Daniel Johnson
Rooster
tel: +44 (0) 20 7691 3939
fax: +44 (0) 20 7691 3929
email: daniel.johnson@rooster.co.uk
web: www.rooster.co.uk
Agents and operators are to benefit from revolutionary new powers to sell online and to target customers through innovative content management technologies including XML and RSS, following the launch of TourCMS, a pioneering travel website management system.
TourCMS, developed by leading travel industry consultancy Travel UCD, enables operators and agents to sell through their own websites and third-party portals.
From launch, the XML-based system becomes the only off-the-shelf solution allowing operators and agents to manage web bookings, web content, web distribution and web marketing, and is available for an annual licence fee starting from just £400.
Through TourCMS agents can sell product from their partner operators, as the solution enables third-parties to upload bookable content through any web browser. To obtain the same functionality presently, companies must develop their own systems or invest thousands of pounds in a range of disparate applications.
The system allows users to manage inventory and content, sell through their own website or other web portals, generate customer invoices and other stationery, and track the success of online marketing campaigns.
TourCMS also becomes the industry’s first solution to offer Really Simple Syndication (RSS) technology, which is predicted to revolutionise how holiday offers are communicated to consumers. RSS bypasses the internet or email to automatically inform customers when new information from a ‘tagged’ website is available, meaning agents’ customers can now be instantly alerted every time a new deal is launched.
TourCMS integrates into its customers’ existing websites and can be installed and managed centrally or by any web design agency. Users enjoy complete control over their site’s design and content, with TourCMS powering their operations.
Alex Bainbridge, Travel UCD’s CEO said: “Our aim for TourCMS is to create the Microsoft Word of travel website management. The system is incredibly affordable, easy to integrate and simple to use, and means agents and operators can now claim a greater share of the prodigious online market.
“RSS is used by websites such as Reuters and BBC to offer constant news feeds – now innovative agents can provide their customers with live late deals and even latest industry news. This will be the next big revolution in travel retailing.”
More information on TourCMS is available from www.tourcms.com.
- Ends -
Notes to editors:
About Travel UCD
Travel UCD (www.travelucd.com) is the leading consultancy specialising in travel and hospitality website design and usability. The company was formed in Spring 2002 and is headquartered in Southampton.
Travel UCD provides a full range of design management and evaluation services to the online travel and hospitality sector in the UK and Europe.
Rather than build HTML, develop code or design graphics, Travel UCD works with a company’s web production team and technology suppliers to create front-ends which improve site usability and drive increased conversion rates.
Alongside specific design consultancy projects for clients, Travel UCD undertakes primary research creating reports on user interface and user experience issues.
For further information please contact:
Daniel Johnson
Rooster
tel: +44 (0) 20 7691 3939
fax: +44 (0) 20 7691 3929
email: daniel.johnson@rooster.co.uk
web: www.rooster.co.uk
"Tourism Society Signs Deal With Leisure Pass Group"
travmedia.com: The Tourism Society has signed a deal with the Leisure Pass Group enabling its members to enjoy a 50% discount on the London Business Card.
This provides visitors to London with benefits including free entry to over 50 attractions in the capital, more than £400 worth of entrance fees and a fastrack entrance to attractions. A 132-page guidebook is included with every card and Society members will be able to buy the London Business Card for £5 instead of £10.
The Society is a long established membership organisation for those involved in tourism across all its sectors; included in the various benefits of membership are access to over 1500 industry contacts, a free quarterly journal 'Tourism', an annual Membership Directory, discounted tickets to Society events which take place nationwide throughout the year, and discounts from a variety of other companies.
Visit www.tourismsociety.org for more information.
This provides visitors to London with benefits including free entry to over 50 attractions in the capital, more than £400 worth of entrance fees and a fastrack entrance to attractions. A 132-page guidebook is included with every card and Society members will be able to buy the London Business Card for £5 instead of £10.
The Society is a long established membership organisation for those involved in tourism across all its sectors; included in the various benefits of membership are access to over 1500 industry contacts, a free quarterly journal 'Tourism', an annual Membership Directory, discounted tickets to Society events which take place nationwide throughout the year, and discounts from a variety of other companies.
Visit www.tourismsociety.org for more information.
VisitBritain new content increased visitor numbers
travmedia.com:
VisitBritain today welcomed new figures that show that between March and May 2004, six and a half million international visitors travelled to the UK, representing the highest ever-recorded numbers of visitors for this period. The figures from the Office for National Statistics support a trend of a strong recovery from 2003, where the concerns over the war in Iraq and SARS had a major impact on world travel.
The increase has been driven by visitors from Western Europe and an increasingly large number of visitors from long haul destinations outside of North America. Set against a background of a continued rise in oil prices and a high exchange rate the statistics show that Britain continues to be a destination of choice for many world travelers.
"The roll out of VisitBritain�s third generation website, www.visitbritain.com will also be an important tool for capturing visitor information and vital data on consumer trends thus further growing the organisation�s consumer database. The website is now live in all countries except Japan, where a scheduled launch will take place in October. A programme of adding new content to the websites continues with additions this month focusing on the experiences available in Britain, including �taste�, �good living�, �touring�, �education� and �gardens�.
The figures in full are:
VISITS SPEND
(000) % change 04/03 �m % change04/03
MARCH 2004 � MAY 2004 6,540 +22 2,710 +10
North America 1,040 +17
Western Europe 4,460 +21
Rest of World 1,030 +30
MAY 04 ONLY 2,330 +28 1,010 +8
North America 380 +8
Western Europe 1,520 +28
Rest of World 430 +54
YEAR-TO-DATE 10,090 +17 4,175 +9
North America 1,560 +15
Western Europe 6,850 +17
Rest of World 1,680 +22
Please note these figures are not seasonally adjusted
Figures quoted for single months may occasionally be subject to a variance of +/- 10%"
VisitBritain today welcomed new figures that show that between March and May 2004, six and a half million international visitors travelled to the UK, representing the highest ever-recorded numbers of visitors for this period. The figures from the Office for National Statistics support a trend of a strong recovery from 2003, where the concerns over the war in Iraq and SARS had a major impact on world travel.
The increase has been driven by visitors from Western Europe and an increasingly large number of visitors from long haul destinations outside of North America. Set against a background of a continued rise in oil prices and a high exchange rate the statistics show that Britain continues to be a destination of choice for many world travelers.
"The roll out of VisitBritain�s third generation website, www.visitbritain.com will also be an important tool for capturing visitor information and vital data on consumer trends thus further growing the organisation�s consumer database. The website is now live in all countries except Japan, where a scheduled launch will take place in October. A programme of adding new content to the websites continues with additions this month focusing on the experiences available in Britain, including �taste�, �good living�, �touring�, �education� and �gardens�.
The figures in full are:
VISITS SPEND
(000) % change 04/03 �m % change04/03
MARCH 2004 � MAY 2004 6,540 +22 2,710 +10
North America 1,040 +17
Western Europe 4,460 +21
Rest of World 1,030 +30
MAY 04 ONLY 2,330 +28 1,010 +8
North America 380 +8
Western Europe 1,520 +28
Rest of World 430 +54
YEAR-TO-DATE 10,090 +17 4,175 +9
North America 1,560 +15
Western Europe 6,850 +17
Rest of World 1,680 +22
Please note these figures are not seasonally adjusted
Figures quoted for single months may occasionally be subject to a variance of +/- 10%"
Reuters more than one-third of U.S. travel would be booked on the Web by 2006,
Reuters | Latest Financial News / Full News Coverage: "One-third of US travel seen booked online
Thu 8 July, 2004 05:07
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Online travel research firm PhoCusWright has forecast that more than one-third of U.S. travel would be booked on the Web by 2006, up from 20 percent in 2003.
Trips booked on the Web by leisure travellers and business people making their own arrangements will rise 34 percent to $52.8 billion (28.5 billion pounds) in 2004 from $39.4 billion in 2003, it projected on Wednesday.
Hotel chains, in particular, have been aggressively promoting their own sites, recently.
PhoCusWright estimated that supplier and third-party sites such as InterActiveCorp. unit Expedia, Orbitz Inc. and Sabre Holdings Corp's Travelocity, would grow by similar rates."
Thu 8 July, 2004 05:07
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Online travel research firm PhoCusWright has forecast that more than one-third of U.S. travel would be booked on the Web by 2006, up from 20 percent in 2003.
Trips booked on the Web by leisure travellers and business people making their own arrangements will rise 34 percent to $52.8 billion (28.5 billion pounds) in 2004 from $39.4 billion in 2003, it projected on Wednesday.
Hotel chains, in particular, have been aggressively promoting their own sites, recently.
PhoCusWright estimated that supplier and third-party sites such as InterActiveCorp. unit Expedia, Orbitz Inc. and Sabre Holdings Corp's Travelocity, would grow by similar rates."
What is dinnerpoint?
What is dinnerpoint?: "What is dinnerpoint?
dinnerpoint is a unique new service, which takes social networking to a new level for 'in the know' busy professionals. dinnerpoint provides a nightly service for professionals on the move enabling them to meet up, socialize and network over dinner in cities they are visiting or living in"
dinnerpoint is a unique new service, which takes social networking to a new level for 'in the know' busy professionals. dinnerpoint provides a nightly service for professionals on the move enabling them to meet up, socialize and network over dinner in cities they are visiting or living in"
Thursday, July 08, 2004
vivit london tv
travmedia.com: "London TV programming includes:
What�s On � a regularly updated broadcast every hour on the hour strand giving a detailed run down of what is going on in the capital over the next 24 hours.
Go Guides � London TV�s Go Guides help you to find the best bits of London. From where to hunt for a bargain to those architectural gems you never knew existed.
Whether you�re looking for a quick drink or a quiet place to chill out the Go Guides give you bite size information that�s easy to digest whenever you need it. (Go Eat); nightlife(Go Party); shopping (Go Shop); theatre, cinema and street performances (Go Watch); galleries (Go Visit); recreational and outdoor activities (Go Play) and hotels (Go Stay).
My London � check out what people love about London. Locals and celebrities paint their own personal portraits of the capital by sharing insider tips, secret haunts and their most memorable London experience.
Ask Us � for the complete answers to your questions on London, a studio based show giving you the opportunity to grill a panel of London experts for advice.
Live up to the minute news flashes provide information about special offers, last minute deals and promotions to help you make the most of the diversity and excitement that London has to offer."
What�s On � a regularly updated broadcast every hour on the hour strand giving a detailed run down of what is going on in the capital over the next 24 hours.
Go Guides � London TV�s Go Guides help you to find the best bits of London. From where to hunt for a bargain to those architectural gems you never knew existed.
Whether you�re looking for a quick drink or a quiet place to chill out the Go Guides give you bite size information that�s easy to digest whenever you need it. (Go Eat); nightlife(Go Party); shopping (Go Shop); theatre, cinema and street performances (Go Watch); galleries (Go Visit); recreational and outdoor activities (Go Play) and hotels (Go Stay).
My London � check out what people love about London. Locals and celebrities paint their own personal portraits of the capital by sharing insider tips, secret haunts and their most memorable London experience.
Ask Us � for the complete answers to your questions on London, a studio based show giving you the opportunity to grill a panel of London experts for advice.
Live up to the minute news flashes provide information about special offers, last minute deals and promotions to help you make the most of the diversity and excitement that London has to offer."
inclusive prices for flights
Guardian Unlimited Travel | Saturday section | More travel news: "Fare's fair
Airlines will be required to quote fully inclusive fares on all their print and internet advertising as part of a joint initiative from the Air Transport Users Council (AUC) and Advertising Standards Authority, launching next month. 'When you visit some websites currently, each screen you click through to book a flight adds another charge. That will change,' said Simon Evans, chief executive of AUC."
Airlines will be required to quote fully inclusive fares on all their print and internet advertising as part of a joint initiative from the Air Transport Users Council (AUC) and Advertising Standards Authority, launching next month. 'When you visit some websites currently, each screen you click through to book a flight adds another charge. That will change,' said Simon Evans, chief executive of AUC."
Transport News new ferry port
Teletext - News: "ERRY PORT GIVEN GREEN LIGHT
The Government has given the green light for the building of a new ferry terminal in North East Lincolnshire.
The ?D35m terminal proposed by Associated British Ports will be constructed at Immingham.
ABP reached a 25-year agreement in February this year with Danish shipping company DFDS Tor Line to develop the 50-acre terminal."
The Government has given the green light for the building of a new ferry terminal in North East Lincolnshire.
The ?D35m terminal proposed by Associated British Ports will be constructed at Immingham.
ABP reached a 25-year agreement in February this year with Danish shipping company DFDS Tor Line to develop the 50-acre terminal."
The Future UK Internet Awards 2004 - For 2005?
The Future UK Internet Awards 2004 - Homepage: "Have your say and nominate your favourite UK web sites for an award in any of the above categories. For more information about each award, click on any category."
Wednesday, July 07, 2004
visits to Travel related websites have surpassed the record levels
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "Hitwise, the world�s leading online competitive intelligence service, today reports that visits to Travel related websites have surpassed the record levels experienced in January of this year. June 2004 is now the highest ever month recorded for visits to Travel sites in the UK, accounting for 4.16% of all visits made online"
"Tourism Is On The Rise Again, Says World Tourism Organization "
travmedia.com: "Tourism Is On The Rise Again, Says World Tourism Organization "
(WTB) has won the Precision Marketing Response Award for Best Travel and Leisure Campaign.
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: Unlike many other awards, the Response Awards recognize excellence in 3 essential campaign elements – strategy, creativity and results. WTB fought off competition from household names Manchester United, British Airways, Eurostar and Virgin Trains."The campaign targeted independent travellers looking for a different experience: visitors who had been to Britain before, but hadn�t yet discovered Wales. The campaign included direct mail, magazine inserts and adverts, and was supported by innovative ambient activity in partnership with Stena Line.
On the busiest travel weekend in July 2003, passengers en route to Britain were immersed in Wales messages: Wales billboards lined the route to the ferry terminal at Hoek Van Holland, leading up to a 30 metre poster on the terminal building itself. Passengers were also given sunscreens mapping the road to Wales, and Wales-branded pillows to ease their onward journey and get them talking about Wales."
On the busiest travel weekend in July 2003, passengers en route to Britain were immersed in Wales messages: Wales billboards lined the route to the ferry terminal at Hoek Van Holland, leading up to a 30 metre poster on the terminal building itself. Passengers were also given sunscreens mapping the road to Wales, and Wales-branded pillows to ease their onward journey and get them talking about Wales."
Buy outs
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "Marble Arch-based The Travel Company has bought Cyberes� subsidiary Corporate Travel International (CTi) from the administrators less than 48 hours after the parent company folded. (6/29/2004)
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AIM-listed Cyberes went into administration on the 24 June as a result of 'cash-flow difficulties.' Administrators PricewaterhouseCoopers announced the sale to The Travel Company late on Friday.
For full story go to www.e-tid.com "
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AIM-listed Cyberes went into administration on the 24 June as a result of 'cash-flow difficulties.' Administrators PricewaterhouseCoopers announced the sale to The Travel Company late on Friday.
For full story go to www.e-tid.com "
virgin atlantic au flights
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "Virgin Atlantic is starting a daily Heathrow-Sydney service via Hong Kong from 7 December. (6/29/2004)
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The announcement was also welcomed by the Australian Tourist Commission, whose spokeswoman said: 'The presence of Virgin in an increasingly competitive market is good news for UK holidaymakers planning trips to Australia. Over the peak season, flights out of the UK fill up quickly, and the additional capacity on the route will give passengers greater choice.� This would mean 'some excellent offers to the consumer', she added.
Tour operators confirmed that any savings made on air fares would be passed on to the customer, although they could not confirm new package prices. Australian specialist Austravel saying it was 'delighted' at the 'great value [the new flights offer] for the leisure traveller.
www.virgin-atlantic.com "
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The announcement was also welcomed by the Australian Tourist Commission, whose spokeswoman said: 'The presence of Virgin in an increasingly competitive market is good news for UK holidaymakers planning trips to Australia. Over the peak season, flights out of the UK fill up quickly, and the additional capacity on the route will give passengers greater choice.� This would mean 'some excellent offers to the consumer', she added.
Tour operators confirmed that any savings made on air fares would be passed on to the customer, although they could not confirm new package prices. Australian specialist Austravel saying it was 'delighted' at the 'great value [the new flights offer] for the leisure traveller.
www.virgin-atlantic.com "
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "The Independent Travel division of First Choice, has announced the implementation of itour to support their Suncars and First4xtras brands. Itour is a revolutionary browser based travel reservations system, from BlueSky Travel Systems that has been developed using the latest technology from Oracle."
Key Issues Facing Online Marketers in Europe - IMHI Hotel Internet Marketing Strategy Conference Wrapup / July 2004
Key Issues Facing Online Marketers in Europe - IMHI Hotel Internet Marketing Strategy Conference Wrapup / July 2004: "key differences in the behavior of consumers in the US, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. For example, Mr d�Auvigny highlighted differences in travel patterns and specifically the importance of trains in the European marketplace, where far more consumers make use of the high-speed rail network to travel distances of up to three hours than in other regions, a characteristic that has influenced Accor�s marketing strategy and prompted the introduction of their innovative scheme �Train et Hotel�. "
The panel highlighted how localization of both content and sales messages was the key to success. Simple translation or, as the panel phrased it “transliteration” is unlikely to succeed. The challenge is to have an international site but remain local, present the content in a way that is clear, concise and relevant to the local situation. The only way to achieve this is to devolve responsibility for such content down to the local level, which, from a technological perspective, can be facilitated relatively easily using a content management system. However it is the soft factors that are more troublesome, and the corporate level needs to spend a lot of time and effort on training and communication as to the importance of maintaining such data regularly and to the role that it plays in the marketing and distribution process is key.
The panel highlighted how localization of both content and sales messages was the key to success. Simple translation or, as the panel phrased it “transliteration” is unlikely to succeed. The challenge is to have an international site but remain local, present the content in a way that is clear, concise and relevant to the local situation. The only way to achieve this is to devolve responsibility for such content down to the local level, which, from a technological perspective, can be facilitated relatively easily using a content management system. However it is the soft factors that are more troublesome, and the corporate level needs to spend a lot of time and effort on training and communication as to the importance of maintaining such data regularly and to the role that it plays in the marketing and distribution process is key.
online travel corp
travmedia.com: "About Onlinetravel.com (www.onlinetravel.com)
Onlinetravel.com is the fastest-growing independent travel site in the UK. Its easy to use Build-Your-Own (BYO) technology allows consumers to create their ideal holiday from a comprehensive range of worldwide flights and hotels.
BYO deals couple the convenience of a tailor-made break with the advantage of cheaper airfares and hotel rates. Onlinetravel.com features flight, hotel and car rental deals negotiated by parent company Online Travel Corporation (OTC), and mean customers can take advantage of everything from airfares at rates only offered by carriers to tour operators, through to discounted hotel and self-catering accommodation. Since its launch, Onlinetravel.com has witnessed dramatic month-on-month increases in sales of BYO holidays.
OTC is part of lastminute.com, Europe's leading independent online provider of travel and leisure solutions.
*BYO pricing structure:
Through its BYO solution, OTC is able to offer self-packaging customers discounted 'Inclusive Tour' (IT) rates that are cheaper than other discounted fares on the same departures. These fares were previously only offered by tour operators and travel agents as part of packaged deals. The IT rates, which must be combined with OTC's hotel options and cannot be purchased separately, offer travellers cost-savings on the flight element of their holiday, compared to the flight-only prices offered by other online travel providers, usually 'published' or 'consolidators' fares.
For further information please contact:
Daniel Johnson
Rooster
tel: +44 (0) 20 7691 3290
fax: +44 (0) 20 7691 3929
email: daniel.johnson@rooster.co.uk
web: www.rooster.co.uk"
Onlinetravel.com is the fastest-growing independent travel site in the UK. Its easy to use Build-Your-Own (BYO) technology allows consumers to create their ideal holiday from a comprehensive range of worldwide flights and hotels.
BYO deals couple the convenience of a tailor-made break with the advantage of cheaper airfares and hotel rates. Onlinetravel.com features flight, hotel and car rental deals negotiated by parent company Online Travel Corporation (OTC), and mean customers can take advantage of everything from airfares at rates only offered by carriers to tour operators, through to discounted hotel and self-catering accommodation. Since its launch, Onlinetravel.com has witnessed dramatic month-on-month increases in sales of BYO holidays.
OTC is part of lastminute.com, Europe's leading independent online provider of travel and leisure solutions.
*BYO pricing structure:
Through its BYO solution, OTC is able to offer self-packaging customers discounted 'Inclusive Tour' (IT) rates that are cheaper than other discounted fares on the same departures. These fares were previously only offered by tour operators and travel agents as part of packaged deals. The IT rates, which must be combined with OTC's hotel options and cannot be purchased separately, offer travellers cost-savings on the flight element of their holiday, compared to the flight-only prices offered by other online travel providers, usually 'published' or 'consolidators' fares.
For further information please contact:
Daniel Johnson
Rooster
tel: +44 (0) 20 7691 3290
fax: +44 (0) 20 7691 3929
email: daniel.johnson@rooster.co.uk
web: www.rooster.co.uk"
The London Pass
travmedia.com: " The London Pass is available as 1, 2, 3 or 6-day pass and with or without transport.
� Tickets to the Summer Opening of the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace are an optional add-on to the purchase of a London Pass and have to be purchased at �12.95 (adult rate) or �6.50 (child rate) plus �1.00 booking fee.
� London Passes can be bought through the dedicated website www.londonpass.com or by phoning the call centre on +44 (0)870 242 9988.
� The Leisure Pass Group was founded by Angus Rankine and Andrew Grahame in 1997. It creates all-inclusive sightseeing �smart� passes for cities around the world encompassing tourist attractions, shopping, leisure, services and transport, all in one complete package.
� The Leisure Pass Group�s products are:
The London Pass www.londonpass.com
The Dublin Pass www.dublinpass.com
The York Pass www.yorkpass.com
The New York Pass www.newyorkpass.com
London Business Card www.londonbusinesscard.com
London Travelpass www.londontravelpass.com
Travel Professional www.lptravelpro.com
� Further information about the Leisure Pass Group and a selection of images can be found at www.leisurepassgroup.com."
� Tickets to the Summer Opening of the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace are an optional add-on to the purchase of a London Pass and have to be purchased at �12.95 (adult rate) or �6.50 (child rate) plus �1.00 booking fee.
� London Passes can be bought through the dedicated website www.londonpass.com or by phoning the call centre on +44 (0)870 242 9988.
� The Leisure Pass Group was founded by Angus Rankine and Andrew Grahame in 1997. It creates all-inclusive sightseeing �smart� passes for cities around the world encompassing tourist attractions, shopping, leisure, services and transport, all in one complete package.
� The Leisure Pass Group�s products are:
The London Pass www.londonpass.com
The Dublin Pass www.dublinpass.com
The York Pass www.yorkpass.com
The New York Pass www.newyorkpass.com
London Business Card www.londonbusinesscard.com
London Travelpass www.londontravelpass.com
Travel Professional www.lptravelpro.com
� Further information about the Leisure Pass Group and a selection of images can be found at www.leisurepassgroup.com."
Tuesday, July 06, 2004
Digital Envoy wins geotargeting patent | CNET News.com
Digital Envoy wins geotargeting patent | CNET News.com: "tal Envoy wins geotargeting patent"
London Bed and Breakfast Inns & B&B's on Bed and Breakfast.com - Greater London Lodging
Promotion: BedandBreakfast.com members are putting their money where their guests need it most - in their gas tanks
London Bed and Breakfast Inns & B&B's on Bed and Breakfast.com - Greater London Lodging: "London Bed and Breakfasts"
It's the most extensive media resource for information on B&Bs, country and urban inns, and small hotels worldwide. Here you will find a host of information including BedandBreakfast.com press releases, statistics and FAQs on the B&B industry, story ideas, advice for both B&B travelers and innkeepers, and themed and itinerary travel information
For great B&B story ideas, visit the BedandBreakfast.com Press Room at www.bedandbreakfast.com/about/pressRoom.aspx.
BedandBreakfast.com is the leading online bed & breakfast reservation network, listing over 27,000 bed & breakfasts and inns throughout the United States and internationally. A variety of search functions and extensive maps enable inngoers to find the perfect B&B. Travelers can make reservations online, purchase gift certificates accepted at 3,500 U.S. bed & breakfast inns, subscribe to a free newsletter, vote for their favorite inns, and post questions on expert-hosted message boards.
To learn more about the B&B industry. Contact Marti Mayne at Marti.Mayne@bedandbreakfast.com or 207-846-6331.
Professional Association of Innkeepers International: info@paii.org or 805-569-1853
London Bed and Breakfast Inns & B&B's on Bed and Breakfast.com - Greater London Lodging: "London Bed and Breakfasts"
It's the most extensive media resource for information on B&Bs, country and urban inns, and small hotels worldwide. Here you will find a host of information including BedandBreakfast.com press releases, statistics and FAQs on the B&B industry, story ideas, advice for both B&B travelers and innkeepers, and themed and itinerary travel information
For great B&B story ideas, visit the BedandBreakfast.com Press Room at www.bedandbreakfast.com/about/pressRoom.aspx.
BedandBreakfast.com is the leading online bed & breakfast reservation network, listing over 27,000 bed & breakfasts and inns throughout the United States and internationally. A variety of search functions and extensive maps enable inngoers to find the perfect B&B. Travelers can make reservations online, purchase gift certificates accepted at 3,500 U.S. bed & breakfast inns, subscribe to a free newsletter, vote for their favorite inns, and post questions on expert-hosted message boards.
To learn more about the B&B industry. Contact Marti Mayne at Marti.Mayne@bedandbreakfast.com or 207-846-6331.
Professional Association of Innkeepers International: info@paii.org or 805-569-1853
TRAVEL SECTOR SURPASSES RECORD LEVELS SET IN JANUARY
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysiseyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "Hitwise, the world�s leading online competitive intelligence service, today reports that visits to Travel related websites have surpassed the record levels experienced in January of this year. June 2004 is now the highest ever month recorded for visits to Travel sites in the UK, accounting for 4.16% of all visits made online"
Expedia 'selling well' on Eurostar.com - dynamic packaging 06-Jul-04.
Expedia 'selling well' on Eurostar.com - 06-Jul-04.: "Eurostar says it is 'extremely pleased' with the way its customers are dynamically packaging Expedia product with its own.
The European train operator struck a deal with Expedia owners, InterActive Corp Travel (IACT) to offer its products with train bookings. The deal means Eurostar customers can put together hotels, car hire and insurance with their train bookings. IACT also hopes Eurostar customers will book its tour, excursion and restaurant product.
A Eurostar spokeswoman told TravelMole: 'Our customer feedback tells us that people love the one-stop shop and especially enjoy the more unique add-ons like wine tours or boat trips.
'It is selling extremely well and we will release some figures in a month or so once it has had a chance to bed down a bit.'
The Expedia product has been available on Eurostar.com for about two months. It is the only partner working with Eurostar at present.
IACT has similar white label agreements with US partners such as AirTran Airways and Virgin Vacations, but this is its first dynamic packaging deal with a European partner."
The European train operator struck a deal with Expedia owners, InterActive Corp Travel (IACT) to offer its products with train bookings. The deal means Eurostar customers can put together hotels, car hire and insurance with their train bookings. IACT also hopes Eurostar customers will book its tour, excursion and restaurant product.
A Eurostar spokeswoman told TravelMole: 'Our customer feedback tells us that people love the one-stop shop and especially enjoy the more unique add-ons like wine tours or boat trips.
'It is selling extremely well and we will release some figures in a month or so once it has had a chance to bed down a bit.'
The Expedia product has been available on Eurostar.com for about two months. It is the only partner working with Eurostar at present.
IACT has similar white label agreements with US partners such as AirTran Airways and Virgin Vacations, but this is its first dynamic packaging deal with a European partner."
Expedia 'selling well' on Eurostar.com - dynamic packaging 06-Jul-04.
Expedia 'selling well' on Eurostar.com - 06-Jul-04.: "Eurostar says it is 'extremely pleased' with the way its customers are dynamically packaging Expedia product with its own.
The European train operator struck a deal with Expedia owners, InterActive Corp Travel (IACT) to offer its products with train bookings. The deal means Eurostar customers can put together hotels, car hire and insurance with their train bookings. IACT also hopes Eurostar customers will book its tour, excursion and restaurant product.
A Eurostar spokeswoman told TravelMole: 'Our customer feedback tells us that people love the one-stop shop and especially enjoy the more unique add-ons like wine tours or boat trips.
'It is selling extremely well and we will release some figures in a month or so once it has had a chance to bed down a bit.'
The Expedia product has been available on Eurostar.com for about two months. It is the only partner working with Eurostar at present.
IACT has similar white label agreements with US partners such as AirTran Airways and Virgin Vacations, but this is its first dynamic packaging deal with a European partner."
The European train operator struck a deal with Expedia owners, InterActive Corp Travel (IACT) to offer its products with train bookings. The deal means Eurostar customers can put together hotels, car hire and insurance with their train bookings. IACT also hopes Eurostar customers will book its tour, excursion and restaurant product.
A Eurostar spokeswoman told TravelMole: 'Our customer feedback tells us that people love the one-stop shop and especially enjoy the more unique add-ons like wine tours or boat trips.
'It is selling extremely well and we will release some figures in a month or so once it has had a chance to bed down a bit.'
The Expedia product has been available on Eurostar.com for about two months. It is the only partner working with Eurostar at present.
IACT has similar white label agreements with US partners such as AirTran Airways and Virgin Vacations, but this is its first dynamic packaging deal with a European partner."
Big claims 'Technology will never replace the travel agent' - 06-Jul-04. inc Genesys
'Technology will never replace the travel agent' - 06-Jul-04.: "travel technology consultant Paul Richer says travel agents are relying more and more on technology, but says travel will always need the human face."
cendent unis
travmedia.com: "Following the signing of an agreement between Cendant Hotel Group Europe (Cendant) and the Manchester Conference Centre at University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (UMIST), the first ever Days Hotel in Manchester will open in August 2004. The 117-bedroom Days Hotel Manchester City is adjacent to the University�s city-centre conference facilities and just five minutes walk from Piccadilly Station in the heart of the city centre."
biometrics, smart cards passenger check-in
About s-Travel: "s-Travel is a European project to test the use of biometrics, smart cards, and digital signature in the passenger check-in and boarding at airports. Passengers who have enrolled in the s-Travel programme operated by Alitalia in Milan and Athens will be automatically recognised at check-in and boarding, based on their biometrics, and will use adapted check-in and boarding processes."
FLIGHTS HLX to pay agency commission - 30-Jun-04.
HLX to pay agency commission - 30-Jun-04.: "TUI�s German no-frills airline, Hapag-Lloyd Express (HLX) is offering a flat commission to agents for selling its flights.
The airline says it will pay UK agents �5 for every one-way ticket sold on its routes from Manchester, Newcastle and Dublin to Germany.
Chief executive, Wolfgang Kurth said: 'Low-cost airlines prefer to sell tickets directly to their customers through the Internet. Here at HLX, we want our customers to save money and book wherever and whenever they want.
'Throughout Europe, plenty of people prefer to trust their local Travel Agent. So, it makes great commercial sense for HLX to build the same close relationship in the UK as it has in Germany and the rest of Europe.'
HLX has also launched a dedicated trade section on its website where agents can register to receive their monthly commissions (www.hlx.com/en/agent)."
The airline says it will pay UK agents �5 for every one-way ticket sold on its routes from Manchester, Newcastle and Dublin to Germany.
Chief executive, Wolfgang Kurth said: 'Low-cost airlines prefer to sell tickets directly to their customers through the Internet. Here at HLX, we want our customers to save money and book wherever and whenever they want.
'Throughout Europe, plenty of people prefer to trust their local Travel Agent. So, it makes great commercial sense for HLX to build the same close relationship in the UK as it has in Germany and the rest of Europe.'
HLX has also launched a dedicated trade section on its website where agents can register to receive their monthly commissions (www.hlx.com/en/agent)."
SMS USE GROWS
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "Lastminute.com, Thomas Cook, Avis, Thistle, TUI, NCP and OAG are among the most ambitious and creative companies taking an early lead in mobile through the use of SMS technology. Their customers now actively save quote or booking information, share travel information, itineraries and pictures with friends and colleagues, receive rich alerts about delays or special offers, and keep travel plans easily accessible, all on their mobiles...
In the midst of all this activity, travel companies are still plagued by a simple reality: prospects have little tangible loyalty to any one supplier. They find advantageous pricing everywhere, often leaving Web/WAP sites and call centres with lots of information, but with no inclination to return.
The result means losses for any company that has presented viable trip options but ends up losing the sale to someone else. They are compounded for those companies focused on expanding their role as multi-service providers, and who stand to lose revenues from a range of potential car, flight, and hotel bookings.
As the companies above prove, adding SMS-based services is simple to do, and provides significant business benefits. Their customers have come to appreciate the SMS services because it makes it easier for them to track and share trip information. For those delivering the services, SMS means increased sales, improved cost savings and increased customer loyalty.
For more information on these mobile travel services, and to see them firsthand, visit:
http://www.pocketthis.com/portfolio/index.html "
In the midst of all this activity, travel companies are still plagued by a simple reality: prospects have little tangible loyalty to any one supplier. They find advantageous pricing everywhere, often leaving Web/WAP sites and call centres with lots of information, but with no inclination to return.
The result means losses for any company that has presented viable trip options but ends up losing the sale to someone else. They are compounded for those companies focused on expanding their role as multi-service providers, and who stand to lose revenues from a range of potential car, flight, and hotel bookings.
As the companies above prove, adding SMS-based services is simple to do, and provides significant business benefits. Their customers have come to appreciate the SMS services because it makes it easier for them to track and share trip information. For those delivering the services, SMS means increased sales, improved cost savings and increased customer loyalty.
For more information on these mobile travel services, and to see them firsthand, visit:
http://www.pocketthis.com/portfolio/index.html "
Expedia and Curacao Tourist Board
Curacao Tourist Board
EXPEDIA'S WWTE private-label booking technology, meanwhile, now powers the Curacao Tourist Board Web site [ www.curacao-tourism.com ], the companies said. With the agreement, visitors to the tourist board Web site can book hotels, flights, car rentals, vacation packages and destination activities, officials said.
EXPEDIA'S WWTE private-label booking technology, meanwhile, now powers the Curacao Tourist Board Web site [ www.curacao-tourism.com ], the companies said. With the agreement, visitors to the tourist board Web site can book hotels, flights, car rentals, vacation packages and destination activities, officials said.
Eurostar stats
TW Crossroads: "Eurostar, which links Britain, France and Belgium, repeated the record 19% growth it achieved in the first quarter of 2004 during the entire first half of the year, carrying more than 3.4 million passengers through the Channel Tunnel, up from 2.85 million in the first six months of 2003. "
Cendant and Orbitz
TW Crossroads: "Cendant and Orbitz agreed to distribute merchant hotel inventory from Cendant's franchised hotels on Orbitz.com via JumpStart Web services, a Cendant product, the two companies said.
The two parties did not pinpoint an implementation date.
Distributing merchant inventory through JumpStart is an attractive option for the properties because it readily interfaces with the hotels' existing technology platforms, lowers distribution costs, and eliminates the need to fax reservations, the companies said.
Some 3,100 Cendant franchisees already provide merchant rates to Orbitz, including brands Super 8, Days Inn, Ramada, Travelodge, Howard Johnson, Knights Inn, Villager, Wingate Inn and AmeriHost Inn"
The two parties did not pinpoint an implementation date.
Distributing merchant inventory through JumpStart is an attractive option for the properties because it readily interfaces with the hotels' existing technology platforms, lowers distribution costs, and eliminates the need to fax reservations, the companies said.
Some 3,100 Cendant franchisees already provide merchant rates to Orbitz, including brands Super 8, Days Inn, Ramada, Travelodge, Howard Johnson, Knights Inn, Villager, Wingate Inn and AmeriHost Inn"
Flights GDS etc
TW Crossroads: "Worldspan took an alternate route to getting airlines' Web fares: It's paying the airlines a fee.
In contrast, Sabre and Galileo don't pay a fee to secure Web fares but provide a three-year booking-fee discount. Worldspan revealed the fee payment in connection with its initial public offering"
In contrast, Sabre and Galileo don't pay a fee to secure Web fares but provide a three-year booking-fee discount. Worldspan revealed the fee payment in connection with its initial public offering"
Monday, July 05, 2004
Big Four share of UK holiday capacity drops to under 50% - 05-Jul-04. Online increase share
Big Four share of UK holiday capacity drops to under 50% - 05-Jul-04.: "According to statistics from the CAA for the current year the TUI Group and Thomas Cook Group have cut capacity by 4%, MyTravel Group has cut by 9% and First Choice Holidays Group by 17%. Cosmos has also cut by 4% this year, Trailfinders by 14% and Libra Holidays Group by 6%. The combined reduction in capacity of the eight groups, year-on-year, is 1.4 million passengers.
In stark contrast Lastminute Group has boosted capacity by 284% and the InterActive Corporation Group, which includes Expedia.com, has increased capacity by 147%. Together they have added 0.7 million passengers."
In stark contrast Lastminute Group has boosted capacity by 284% and the InterActive Corporation Group, which includes Expedia.com, has increased capacity by 147%. Together they have added 0.7 million passengers."
Worldwide Excellerated Leasing, Ltd., the Vanguard Car Rental National Grp Car Rental and Alamo brands
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "Vanguard Car Rental, (owner and operator of the National Car Rental and Alamo brands), has appointed a new Non Executive Chairman, UK-based Charles Gurassa, 48, to its Board of Directors. "
Active football and daily £££ reservations
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "Active Hotels is now processing over £500,000 of reservations per day throughout Europe."
EMT organisation contacts
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "Mike Baulcombe
Marketing Manager
East Midlands Tourism
0115 988 8542
INFO:
East Midlands Tourism (EMT) is the new strategic organisation, set up by East Midlands Development Agency to increase the economic performance of the tourism industry in the East Midlands.
Its key aims are to:
� Increase the value of tourism to the East Midlands economy
� To increase visitor spend in the region "
Marketing Manager
East Midlands Tourism
0115 988 8542
INFO:
East Midlands Tourism (EMT) is the new strategic organisation, set up by East Midlands Development Agency to increase the economic performance of the tourism industry in the East Midlands.
Its key aims are to:
� Increase the value of tourism to the East Midlands economy
� To increase visitor spend in the region "
Hitwise United Kingdom List wk ending 3rd July
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "Hitwise United Kingdom List
Top 10 Global 'Travel' sites for the week ending 3 July, 2004 based on VISITS (7/5/2004)
� Print Version
� Send to a Friend
1. (4.31 %) Multimap.com http://www.multimap.com
2. (2.55 %) easyJet http://www.easyjet.co.uk
3. (2.54 %) lastminute.com http://www.lastminute.com
4. (2.27 %) Expedia.co.uk http://www.expedia.co.uk
5. (2.01 %) National Rail http://www.nationalrail.co.uk
6. (1.79 %) The Automobile Association UK http://www.theaa.com
7. (1.67 %) Streetmap.co.uk http://www.streetmap.co.uk
8. (1.62 %) RyanAir.com http://www.ryanair.com
9. (1.36 %) British Airways http://www.britishairways.com
10. (1.11 %) Teletext Holidays http://www.teletextholidays.co.uk"
Top 10 Global 'Travel' sites for the week ending 3 July, 2004 based on VISITS (7/5/2004)
� Print Version
� Send to a Friend
1. (4.31 %) Multimap.com http://www.multimap.com
2. (2.55 %) easyJet http://www.easyjet.co.uk
3. (2.54 %) lastminute.com http://www.lastminute.com
4. (2.27 %) Expedia.co.uk http://www.expedia.co.uk
5. (2.01 %) National Rail http://www.nationalrail.co.uk
6. (1.79 %) The Automobile Association UK http://www.theaa.com
7. (1.67 %) Streetmap.co.uk http://www.streetmap.co.uk
8. (1.62 %) RyanAir.com http://www.ryanair.com
9. (1.36 %) British Airways http://www.britishairways.com
10. (1.11 %) Teletext Holidays http://www.teletextholidays.co.uk"
research vs buyers Online Travel Services Get High Marks
Online Travel Services Get High Marks: "approximately twice as many consumers plan to use the Internet to research lodging rates/availability and airline rates/availability compared with those who plan to book online"
research vs buyers & security Online Travel Services Get High Marks
Online Travel Services Get High Marks: "approximately twice as many consumers plan to use the Internet to research lodging rates/availability and airline rates/availability compared with those who plan to book online"
research vs buyers & security Online Travel Services Get High Marks
Online Travel Services Get High Marks: "approximately twice as many consumers plan to use the Internet to research lodging rates/availability and airline rates/availability compared with those who plan to book online"
Welsh caravan parks 17% of market
travmedia.com: "People who stay at caravan holiday homes contribute some �200m to the Welsh economy - about 17 per cent of all holiday spending � according to the findings of a new independent study."
AU new release flights booking for agentscom
travmedia.com: "This Search it & Book it facility is one of the leading innovative technologies to hit Australia this decade. Enabling clients and consultants to view nett level fares, search by destination available fares, and immediately book tickets online, it is expected to save agencies hundreds in overhead costs. "
Requires *Set-up charges do not include costs for agencies individual Sabre contracts and Agents Support Systems Faresearch which is both required for operation of this service. All prices quoted exclude GST.
Requires *Set-up charges do not include costs for agencies individual Sabre contracts and Agents Support Systems Faresearch which is both required for operation of this service. All prices quoted exclude GST.
AMADEUS said it will acquire a 55% controlling stake of Opodo
TW Crossroads
AMADEUS said it will acquire a 55% controlling stake of Opodo [www.opodo.com], a Pan-European online agency, from the site's nine airline owners for 62 million euros, or some $75 million. Following completion of the purchase, Opodo's ownership structure will be Amadeus (55.4%), Air France (10.3%), British Airways (10.3%), Lufthansa, (10.3%), Alitalia (4.1%), Iberia (4.1%), KLM (4.1%), Finnair (0.8%), Aer Lingus (0.5%) and Austrian Airlines (0.5%). Amadeus has been a technology vendor for Opodo, and has held two seats on Opodo's board since April 2003. Amadeus also is a player in the U.S. online agency market, as the company owns a 39% stake in Onetravel.com.
WORLDSPAN TECHNOLOGIES' initial public offering will be 32.25 million shares of common stock for $19 to $21 per share, according to a Securities and Exchange Commission document filed last week. The IPO could raise as much as $677.25 million. Also, the IPO's underwriters have a 45-day option to purchase up to 4.8 million additional shares to cover any over-allotments. Worldspan intends to use the net proceeds of the IPO to pay down debt, prepay credits owed to Northwest and Delta, and redeem outstanding shares of preferred stock. In an SEC document filed in March, Worldspan said it expected to raise $438.1 million in an IPO. Last year, Worldspan was acquired by the Ontario Teachers' Pension Fund and Citigroup Venture Capital Equity Partners from Delta, Northwest and American.
AMADEUS said it will acquire a 55% controlling stake of Opodo [www.opodo.com], a Pan-European online agency, from the site's nine airline owners for 62 million euros, or some $75 million. Following completion of the purchase, Opodo's ownership structure will be Amadeus (55.4%), Air France (10.3%), British Airways (10.3%), Lufthansa, (10.3%), Alitalia (4.1%), Iberia (4.1%), KLM (4.1%), Finnair (0.8%), Aer Lingus (0.5%) and Austrian Airlines (0.5%). Amadeus has been a technology vendor for Opodo, and has held two seats on Opodo's board since April 2003. Amadeus also is a player in the U.S. online agency market, as the company owns a 39% stake in Onetravel.com.
WORLDSPAN TECHNOLOGIES' initial public offering will be 32.25 million shares of common stock for $19 to $21 per share, according to a Securities and Exchange Commission document filed last week. The IPO could raise as much as $677.25 million. Also, the IPO's underwriters have a 45-day option to purchase up to 4.8 million additional shares to cover any over-allotments. Worldspan intends to use the net proceeds of the IPO to pay down debt, prepay credits owed to Northwest and Delta, and redeem outstanding shares of preferred stock. In an SEC document filed in March, Worldspan said it expected to raise $438.1 million in an IPO. Last year, Worldspan was acquired by the Ontario Teachers' Pension Fund and Citigroup Venture Capital Equity Partners from Delta, Northwest and American.
Wotif.com: beef up accom search
Newsletter "Finding the accommodation that suits YOU best just got easier!With the new Advanced Search option you can search for say, 1 bedroom suites under $120 with broadband internet and an in-room spa in say, Cooper Pedy. Cooper Pedy? Well, you get the idea..."
Wotif.com: United Kingdom Hotels, Accommodation, Motels: "Wotif.com is the global specialist in last-minute accommodation. Enjoy immediate booking confirmation for over 6000 hotels, motels, serviced apartments, resorts, guesthouses and bed & breakfasts in 32 countries."
Wotif.com: United Kingdom Hotels, Accommodation, Motels: "Wotif.com is the global specialist in last-minute accommodation. Enjoy immediate booking confirmation for over 6000 hotels, motels, serviced apartments, resorts, guesthouses and bed & breakfasts in 32 countries."
Lastminute.com shares drop after German takeover - 01-Jul-04.
Lastminute.com shares drop after German takeover - 01-Jul-04.: "Lastminute.com�s shares dropped back 3.5p to 180.5p after it announced it had bought its German namesake, lastminute.de, in a �31 million deal."
flight scanner free trial More no-frills to get on agents' desktops - 01-Jul-04.
More no-frills to get on agents' desktops - 01-Jul-04.: "FlightScanner has signed up seven more airlines, taking its total to 50.
The agency desktop tool searches the airline fares of full service and no-frills airlines. Its recent signings are mostly no-frills airlines that have recently launched or are due to take off this year in Europe.
They are: Evolavia (Italian carrier); Wizz Air (operates out of Poland and Hungary); Eujet (due to launch from Kent Manston later this year); Independence Air (offers US domestic flights); Norwegian (Scandinavian-based airline); Vueling Airlines (operates out of Paris and Brussels); and Skyways (Swedish airline).
FlightScanner, developed by Dolphin Dynamics, is now used by around 7,000 leisure and business travel agents. It is also used by travel companies to incorporate into their own applications including websites, via an XML link.
Dolphin president Roberto Da Re said: 'Reaching support for 50 airlines marks a significant milestone for FlightScanner, but we haven�t finished there.'
Agents can register for a free trial on www.flightscanner.biz."
The agency desktop tool searches the airline fares of full service and no-frills airlines. Its recent signings are mostly no-frills airlines that have recently launched or are due to take off this year in Europe.
They are: Evolavia (Italian carrier); Wizz Air (operates out of Poland and Hungary); Eujet (due to launch from Kent Manston later this year); Independence Air (offers US domestic flights); Norwegian (Scandinavian-based airline); Vueling Airlines (operates out of Paris and Brussels); and Skyways (Swedish airline).
FlightScanner, developed by Dolphin Dynamics, is now used by around 7,000 leisure and business travel agents. It is also used by travel companies to incorporate into their own applications including websites, via an XML link.
Dolphin president Roberto Da Re said: 'Reaching support for 50 airlines marks a significant milestone for FlightScanner, but we haven�t finished there.'
Agents can register for a free trial on www.flightscanner.biz."
About the Tourism Network
About the Tourism Network: "The Tourism Network devised the original concept of the successful London Treasures promotion to target Londoners and VFR markets. Many of the ideas and concepts from this campaign have subsequently been adopted and used by Visit London in their Totally London and Go Further campaigns."
The Tourism Society -- Home
The Tourism Society -- Home: "The purpose of the Tourism Society is:
'To provide a forum for professionals working in, studying or otherwise interested in tourism across all sectors worldwide.'
The Tourism Society is the only, professional body to link the mutual interests of individuals throughout the many sectors of tourism and its related fields, recognising that people will need increasingly to work in more than one sector during their career. The Membership includes individuals working in tourism at all management levels up to industry leaders both past and present as well as other tourism professionals in consultancy, academic and students.
Membership is around 1100 from the whole spectrum of tourism bodies: public and private sector companies at international, national and local levels, including visitor attractions, tour operators, hotels, catering establishments, colleges and universities, consultancies and carriers. Members are encouraged to make personal contributions to the Society by organising or speaking at meetings, writing articles and through the Society's work in general."
'To provide a forum for professionals working in, studying or otherwise interested in tourism across all sectors worldwide.'
The Tourism Society is the only, professional body to link the mutual interests of individuals throughout the many sectors of tourism and its related fields, recognising that people will need increasingly to work in more than one sector during their career. The Membership includes individuals working in tourism at all management levels up to industry leaders both past and present as well as other tourism professionals in consultancy, academic and students.
Membership is around 1100 from the whole spectrum of tourism bodies: public and private sector companies at international, national and local levels, including visitor attractions, tour operators, hotels, catering establishments, colleges and universities, consultancies and carriers. Members are encouraged to make personal contributions to the Society by organising or speaking at meetings, writing articles and through the Society's work in general."
Cendent 2
eyefortravel.com - Travel Distribution News, Events and Analysis: "About Cendant
Cendant Corporation is primarily a provider of travel and residential real estate services. With approximately 90,000 employees, New York City-based Cendant provides these services to business and consumers in over 100 countries. More information about Cendant, its companies, brands and current SEC filings may be obtained by visiting the Company's Web site at www.cendant.com or by calling 877-4-INFOCD (877-446-3623).
About Gullivers Travel Associates
Gullivers Travel Associates (GTA) is a global tourism company, established in 1975, with 30 offices worldwide. One of the world's largest distributors of independent hotel accommodations and travel services, GTA directly contracts with suppliers on a global basis offering clients the benefit of unrivalled purchasing power, technology and products. GTA has been operating internet-based booking systems since 1995 and operates 16 interlinked IBM AS/400 systems worldwide, providing real-time, synchronized data with the safeguard of full disaster recovery and supported by its own in-house software development team.
Media Contacts:
Kate Sullivan
Cendant Travel Distribution Services
(973) 496-4540
kate.sullivan@cendant.com
Barry Kaplan
Gullivers Travel Associates
(212) 843-9759
barry.kaplan@gta-usa.com "
Cendant Corporation is primarily a provider of travel and residential real estate services. With approximately 90,000 employees, New York City-based Cendant provides these services to business and consumers in over 100 countries. More information about Cendant, its companies, brands and current SEC filings may be obtained by visiting the Company's Web site at www.cendant.com or by calling 877-4-INFOCD (877-446-3623).
About Gullivers Travel Associates
Gullivers Travel Associates (GTA) is a global tourism company, established in 1975, with 30 offices worldwide. One of the world's largest distributors of independent hotel accommodations and travel services, GTA directly contracts with suppliers on a global basis offering clients the benefit of unrivalled purchasing power, technology and products. GTA has been operating internet-based booking systems since 1995 and operates 16 interlinked IBM AS/400 systems worldwide, providing real-time, synchronized data with the safeguard of full disaster recovery and supported by its own in-house software development team.
Media Contacts:
Kate Sullivan
Cendant Travel Distribution Services
(973) 496-4540
kate.sullivan@cendant.com
Barry Kaplan
Gullivers Travel Associates
(212) 843-9759
barry.kaplan@gta-usa.com "
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