2024 ITB BERLIN NEWS - DAY 1 Edition
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<strong>DAY</strong><br />
1<br />
TUES<strong>DAY</strong><br />
5 MARCH<br />
<strong>2024</strong><br />
HALL 9<br />
STAND 113<br />
HALL 21<br />
STAND 214<br />
HALL 4.2<br />
STANDS 200,<br />
202 & 205<br />
HALL 3.2<br />
STAND 101<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>2024</strong><br />
THE WORLD STAGE<br />
OF TOURISM<br />
UNVEILING A MOSAIC<br />
OF GLOBAL HOSPITALITY<br />
REGION: MIDDLE EAST<br />
TAILORED<br />
ADVENTURES<br />
AWAIT IN ABU<br />
DHABI<br />
TRAVEL TECHNOLOGY<br />
“OUR SUCCESS<br />
HINGES ON<br />
CONTINUOUSLY<br />
EMPOWERING<br />
OUR CLIENTS<br />
TO THRIVE IN A<br />
COMPETITIVE<br />
MARKET”<br />
Afra Wang,<br />
COO and Co-founder,<br />
Unififi Group<br />
#31<br />
#39<br />
#24<br />
EXCLUSIVE<br />
INTERVIEW<br />
H.E. SALIM BIN<br />
MOHAMMED<br />
AL MAHROUQI<br />
Minister of Heritage & Tourism<br />
of the Sultanate of Oman
I <strong>NEWS</strong> I<br />
Morning Briefing<br />
CONTENTS<br />
By Deborah Rothe, Director <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin<br />
Defining the world of<br />
travel together<br />
#09 TO<strong>DAY</strong>'S<br />
HIGHLIGHTS<br />
#14 <strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>2024</strong><br />
OPENING PRESS<br />
CONFERENCE<br />
#20 TRADE TALK<br />
Good morning and welcome to <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin<br />
<strong>2024</strong>! I'm Deborah Rothe, the show's Director,<br />
and I'm thrilled to share with you today's<br />
exciting lineup of events and opportunities for<br />
learning, connecting, and exploring the future<br />
of travel.<br />
Let's start with a real highlight of the day,<br />
the <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin Convention's Future Track.<br />
Here, you'll hear from industry leaders and<br />
innovators as they discuss the latest trends<br />
and technologies shaping the travel landscape.<br />
Today's keynote, a friendly and engaging<br />
fireside chat with Glenn Fogel from Booking<br />
Holdings, is sure to offer valuable insights<br />
into the current state of the travel industry<br />
and its direction for the future. To see today's<br />
highlights turn to page 9, and for the complete<br />
programme for the Future Track conference,<br />
you can scan the QR code on page 13.<br />
But first, let's revisit yesterday's opening press<br />
conference. Moderated by Katie Gallus, we<br />
received an overview of <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong>'s<br />
highlights, presented by Dr Mario Tobias,<br />
CEO of Messe Berlin. H.E. Azzan bin Qassim<br />
Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of Tourism of the<br />
Ministry of Heritage and Tourism of Oman,<br />
offered an insightful look into this year's<br />
Official Host Country. Phocuswright's Charuta<br />
Fadnis shared her expertise on the global<br />
travel industry's growth, the impact of AI,<br />
and how companies are adapting to these<br />
changes, while DRV President Norbert Fiebig<br />
discussed the Germans' prevailing passion for<br />
travel.<br />
From the exhibitors' side, among our more<br />
than 5,500 exhibitors, one of the must-visit<br />
booths is of course Oman, the Official Host<br />
Country of <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong>. Discover this<br />
unique destination, where authentic cultural<br />
experiences, breathtaking natural landscapes,<br />
and luxurious accommodations await. Oman<br />
is also a shining example of how sustainable<br />
tourism can benefit both the environment<br />
and local communities. To learn more about<br />
Oman and its vision for the future, be sure to<br />
read the exclusive interview with H.E. Salim Al<br />
Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism for<br />
the Sultanate of Oman, on page 24.<br />
Our team is here to support you throughout<br />
your <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin journey. If you have any<br />
questions or need assistance, please don't<br />
hesitate to approach us at the <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin<br />
Information Counters or reach out through our<br />
mobile app.<br />
Thank you for joining us today, and we look<br />
forward to seeing all of you on the show floor.<br />
Let's make the most of this opportunity to<br />
learn, connect, and shape the future of travel<br />
together!<br />
#24 REGION:<br />
MIDDLE EAST - AFRICA<br />
OMAN<br />
SPECIAL FEATURES<br />
#39 TRAVEL TECHNOLOGIES<br />
#48 CYCLING TOURISM<br />
#51 TRANSPORT<br />
#54 WHERE TO GO IN <strong>BERLIN</strong><br />
@ Oman Convention<br />
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<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 7
I <strong>NEWS</strong> I<br />
TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 MARCH <strong>2024</strong>:<br />
TO<strong>DAY</strong>’S HIGHLIGHTS<br />
As <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin kicks off in full force, what does today have in store in terms<br />
of educational and networking possibilities across the various stages and<br />
stands? Here's our selection of some of the must-attend highlights.<br />
FUTURE TRACK<br />
11:25 - 12:15<br />
Hall 7.1a / Orange Stage<br />
LEADERSHIP, INNOVATION AND THE<br />
FUTURE OF TRAVEL: A FIRESIDE CHAT<br />
WITH GLENN FOGEL<br />
Start your day off with some insight from industry<br />
leader Glenn Fogel at the Future Track in a fireside<br />
chat on leadership, innovation, and the future of<br />
travel. Take advantage of this opportunity to learn<br />
from his extensive experience and success in the<br />
travel industry.<br />
TOUR OPERATOR & TRAVEL SALES TRACK<br />
11:30 - 12:30<br />
Hall 7.1b / Blue Stage<br />
DISTRIBUTION PLATFORMS MEET<br />
CUSTOMER EXPECTATIONS: ONE-STOP<br />
SHOPPING VS. CUSTOMIZED TRAVEL<br />
ARRANGEMENTS<br />
Navigate the complex world of distribution platforms<br />
at the Tour Operator & Travel Sales Track and learn<br />
how to balance between the desire for tailor-made,<br />
flexible travel experiences and the demand for<br />
convenient and comprehensive package deals.<br />
DIVERSITY & INCLUSION TRACK<br />
11:45 - 12:15<br />
Hall 3.1a / Green Stage<br />
CIVIC SPACE UNDER SIEGE - THE FUTURE<br />
OF TOURISM AS A FREEDOM ECONOMY<br />
Learn more about how diversity in tourism is shaping<br />
the freedom economy of the future and how you can<br />
contribute to creating a more inclusive industry.<br />
eTRAVEL TRACK<br />
12:15 - 12:40<br />
Hall 6.1a / eTravel Stage<br />
TECHNOLOGY TRENDS SHAPING THE<br />
ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATIONS<br />
SECTOR<br />
Check out the technology trends shaping the<br />
alternative accommodations sector at the eTravel<br />
Track and stay ahead of the curve in this rapidly<br />
growing segment of the travel industry.<br />
FUTURE TRACK<br />
12:45 - 13:20<br />
Hall 7.1a / Orange Stage<br />
GLOBAL ROUNDTABLE: HOW TO BECOME<br />
PIONEERS IN TRANSITION<br />
Join leading personalities including <strong>ITB</strong> Host Country<br />
Oman's Minister of Heritage and Tourism, HE Salim<br />
M. Almahruqi, for this Global Roundtable, and be<br />
part of the solution to the biggest challenge facing<br />
the travel industry: sustainability. How to avoid<br />
greenhouse gases when traveling? And how take<br />
responsibility for our actions? Hear about possible<br />
roadmaps for a more sustainable future for travel.<br />
FUTURE TRACK<br />
14:10 - 14:45<br />
Hall 7.1a / Orange Stage<br />
GOOGLE:<br />
HOW GENAI IS CHANGING<br />
THE DIGITAL WORLD - FROM FUTURE<br />
TECH TO DAILY BUSINESS<br />
Don't miss Google at the Future Track to discover<br />
how GenAI is changing the digital world. Learn how<br />
this cutting-edge technology is becoming a part of<br />
our daily lives and what it means for the future of<br />
travel.<br />
13:30 - 14:15<br />
Hall 8.2 / Stand 201<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> MICE HUB<br />
NETWORKING EVENT<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> invites all participants from the MICE<br />
sector to an open networking event at its brand-new<br />
MICE HUB. Mingle with potential partners in the<br />
Meetings and Incentives segment, before checking<br />
out the MICE related conference sessions.<br />
MICE TRACK<br />
14:30 - 15:00<br />
Hall 3.1a / Green Stage<br />
THE ENGAGEMENT EQUATION<br />
Unlock the secrets of engagement at the MICE Track<br />
and find out how to create unforgettable events that<br />
captivate audiences and keep them coming back for<br />
more.<br />
CARRIER & CRUISE TRACK<br />
15:00 - 15:45<br />
Hall 7.1a / Blue Stage<br />
HOW AIRLINE TECHNOLOGY SHAPES<br />
THE FUTURE OF TRAVEL DISTRIBUTION<br />
DRIVEN BY NDC & ONE ORDER<br />
Discover how airline technology is shaping the future<br />
of travel distribution at the Carrier & Cruise Track. Get<br />
up to speed on NDC & ONE Order and how they are<br />
driving innovation in the industry.<br />
eTRAVEL TRACK<br />
16:20 - 16:40<br />
Hall 6.1a / eTravel Stage<br />
HOTEL TECHNOLOGY FORUM<br />
STATE OF DISTRIBUTION REPORT – A<br />
GLOBAL OUTLOOK ON DISTRIBUTION<br />
TRENDS AND PRACTICES<br />
Listen to this comprehensive analysis of distribution<br />
in hospitality, shining a light on where hotels are<br />
investing, what technologies are being implemented,<br />
how teams are changing, and what distribution might<br />
look like down the road.<br />
Photos: © Messe Berlin GmbH<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 9
I <strong>NEWS</strong> I<br />
ADVERTORIAL<br />
Vanuatu showcases festivities and<br />
wonders at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong><br />
A rich programme<br />
of events for Albania<br />
at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong><br />
Albania is an increasingly popular<br />
destination in the international<br />
tourism arena. Last year, foreign<br />
tourist arrivals surpassed the<br />
10-million mark for the first time<br />
according to official data from the<br />
Ministry of Tourism. This represented<br />
an increase of 35% over 2022.<br />
At <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong>, Albania is making an<br />
impression on visitors with a rich programme<br />
allowing visitors to discover the destination.<br />
Albania is showcasing its remarkable natural,<br />
cultural, and culinary diversity through the<br />
presentation of seven main destinations on the<br />
stand.<br />
In addition to business appointments with<br />
26 tour operators, visitors can also indulge in<br />
traditional Albanian drinks reimagined in a<br />
contemporary fashion in order to get a taste for<br />
the culture.<br />
Albania's events serve as a platform for fruitful<br />
discussions and collaborations, with the<br />
backdrop of Albania's tourism landscape. The<br />
aim is to provide the industry with a better<br />
understanding of the destination which looks<br />
to growing its presence on the global tourism<br />
stage<br />
Hall 1.1 / Stand 214a<br />
DON’T MISS TO<strong>DAY</strong>'S EVENTS<br />
ON ALBANIA’S STAND:<br />
12:00p.m. Opening remarks by Mirela Kumbaro,<br />
Minister of Tourism and Environment of Albania<br />
1:30p.m. Networking Event and Happy Hour:<br />
OriginAL – A drink menu inspired by our culinary<br />
traditions<br />
3:00p.m. Albanian destinations: Touristic Durrës<br />
3:30p.m. Let’s talk about: Albania’s homegrown<br />
festivals as part of the development narrative<br />
4:00p.m. Albanian destinations: Touristic Korça<br />
5:00p.m. Albanian destinations: Touristic Vlora<br />
At this year's <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin, Vanuatu is unveiling its<br />
calendar for <strong>2024</strong>, spotlighting cultural festivities,<br />
sports competitions, and opportunities for natural<br />
exploration. This Pacific destination is celebrating<br />
its cultural diversity and picturesque landscapes,<br />
offering a range of activities catering to various<br />
interests.<br />
Travellers to Vanuatu can<br />
witness traditional dances,<br />
vibrant markets filled with crafts<br />
and foods, and sports events<br />
that showcase the community's<br />
dynamic spirit. The clear waters<br />
around Vanuatu offer ideal<br />
conditions for diving, allowing<br />
visitors to explore the rich<br />
marine life.<br />
In addition to these activities,<br />
Vanuatu encourages travellers<br />
to venture off the traditional<br />
tourist routes and discover<br />
hidden spots and interact with<br />
locals, allowing for a deeper<br />
understanding of Vanuatu's<br />
culture and lifestyle.<br />
Kazakhstan is presenting a wide tourism offer at<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin this year, from traditional gastronomy to<br />
adventure tourism.<br />
In Astana, for example, travellers<br />
can dine at the famour Qazaq<br />
Gourmet restaurant, recognised<br />
internationally and contributing<br />
to acknowledgment of Kazakh<br />
national cuisine on the global<br />
stage. This was the first place to<br />
bring Kazakh cuisine to a finedining<br />
level while keeping the<br />
authenticity of ancient recipes.<br />
A popular delight is vodka made<br />
of fermented mare's milk kumis.<br />
Kazakhstan is also a haven for<br />
adventure seekers. With its vast<br />
steppes, rugged mountains, and<br />
At <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin this year, Vanuatu<br />
is sharing a glimpse into the<br />
authentic experiences it offers,<br />
focusing on its unique cultural<br />
and environmental attractions.<br />
Visitors who want to find out<br />
more can stop by their stand in<br />
Hall 5.2<br />
Hall 5.2 / Stand 111<br />
Kazakhstan: Gastronomy and adventure<br />
in the spotlight at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong><br />
Bozjyra kazakh<br />
Nekowiar Toka Festival<br />
serene lakes, the country offers<br />
many opportunities for outdoor<br />
activities such as hiking,<br />
trekking, skiing, and horseback<br />
riding. Whether exploring the<br />
landscapes of Altai Mountains<br />
or camping under the stars in<br />
the Charyn Canyon or Bozjyra<br />
tract, adventurers are sure<br />
to find experiences that will<br />
leave a lasting impression. The<br />
gorge Medeu is listed in the<br />
Guinness World Records as the<br />
world's highest open air skating<br />
rink, and features well-known<br />
restaurants Auyl and Tör.<br />
Visitors to <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin can stop<br />
by Kazakhstan's stand to find<br />
out more about all that this<br />
destination has to offer<br />
Hall 10.2 / Stand 109<br />
© Vanuatu Tourism Office<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 11
I <strong>NEWS</strong> I<br />
© Messe Berlin GmbH<br />
Unlocking the future: Google gives insight<br />
into generative AI's impact<br />
This afternoon, Dr Stefan Ebener, Head of<br />
Customer Engineering at Google, is giving a<br />
session "How GenAI is Changing the Digital<br />
World" in Hall 7.1a on the Orange Stage.<br />
This talk will explore generative AI's current impact<br />
and future potential in various industries. Google<br />
aims to demystify the technology, offering insights<br />
into its complex yet user-friendly applications.<br />
This session is essential for those interested in the<br />
intersection of AI, digitalisation, and marketing,<br />
and will provide a glimpse into the future of digital<br />
innovation from the perspective of an industry<br />
giant<br />
GOOGLE: HOW GENAI IS<br />
CHANGING THE DIGITAL WORLD<br />
- FROM FUTURE TECH TO DAILY<br />
BUSINESS<br />
Today,<br />
Tuesday 5 March<br />
2:10p.m. - 2:45p.m.<br />
Future Track<br />
Hall 7.1a<br />
Orange Stage<br />
with Dr. Stefan Ebener, Head of<br />
Customer Engineering at Google<br />
For the full conference<br />
programme, scan here:<br />
Peru wows visitors at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong><br />
Peru is launching its new international advertising<br />
campaign “Peru Wow” on the German-speaking<br />
market at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong>. The destination is<br />
showcasing its natural and cultural diversity in the<br />
three regions of the Andes, the Pacific coast and the<br />
Amazon rainforest.<br />
Hall 23 / Stand 100<br />
© Promperu<br />
Together with 25 Peruvian<br />
suppliers, the representatives<br />
of Promperú, led by Managing<br />
Director Angélica Matsuda,<br />
is presenting a diverse range<br />
of offers from Peru, ranging<br />
from exclusive luxury products<br />
and gastronomy to cultural<br />
heritage, active experiences and<br />
sustainable encounters with the<br />
country's indigenous population.<br />
Visitors to <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin can taste<br />
Peruvian coffee and pisco on<br />
Peru's stand as well as discover<br />
exhibits from the north such<br />
as the Señor de Sipán. Four<br />
highlights of Peru—the Nasca<br />
Lines, Kuélap, Machupicchu and<br />
the Colca Gorge—will be brought<br />
to life with the help of virtual<br />
reality.<br />
Promperú Managing Director<br />
Angélica Matsuda emphaises<br />
that a highlight on Peru's stand<br />
will be the pisco reception<br />
on Wednesday 6th March to<br />
celebrate the launch of the "Peru<br />
Wow" campaign in Germany. In<br />
addition to exciting information<br />
about the campaign and other<br />
news from Peru, guests can<br />
look forward to typical Peruvian<br />
delicacies<br />
Wednesday<br />
6 March<br />
5:00p.m.<br />
PISCO<br />
RECEPTION<br />
Hall 23<br />
Stand 100<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 13
I <strong>NEWS</strong> I<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong> opening press<br />
Insights and developments at the forefront of the global travel<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> IS<br />
THE MEETING<br />
PLACE FOR THE<br />
TOURISM<br />
INDUSTRY’S<br />
ENTIRE VALUE<br />
CHAIN (…)<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong>'s opening press conference set the stage<br />
for what promises to be an engaging and insightful event.<br />
The conference highlighted the impressive booking rate<br />
that has filled over 90% of the 150,000 square metres of<br />
display area this year, as well as the number of international<br />
exhibitors which make up 87% of the total this year.<br />
Dr Mario Tobias, CEO of Messe<br />
Berlin, opened the conference by<br />
acknowledging the significance of<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin as a vital platform for the<br />
travel industry’s diverse stakeholders:<br />
"<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin is the meeting place for<br />
the tourism industry’s entire value<br />
chain, once again underlining its<br />
global importance as a leading<br />
international trade show." He praised<br />
the "outstanding quality" of top<br />
buyers at the show, and pointed<br />
out the optimistic demand for travel<br />
juxtaposed with challenges the<br />
industry is facing such as climate<br />
change and technological changes.<br />
He was clear that the path to<br />
overcoming these challenges "can<br />
only be overcome together."<br />
Oman was in the spotlight at the<br />
opening press conference, and<br />
H.E. Azzan bin Qassim Al Busaidi,<br />
Undersecretary of Tourism of the<br />
Ministry of Heritage and Tourism<br />
of Oman, offered insights into<br />
the Official Host Country while<br />
presenting Oman’s rich cultural<br />
heritage and tourism potential. To<br />
further spark interest in this year’s<br />
host country, four musicians of the<br />
Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra<br />
presented musical highlights before<br />
and after the conference. Visitors<br />
also enjoyed a culinary treat with<br />
coffee and dates from Oman.<br />
Charuta Fadnis, Senior Vice<br />
President, Research and Product<br />
Strategy at Phocuswright,<br />
highlighted the growth taking place<br />
14 <strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> news.itb.com
I <strong>NEWS</strong> I<br />
conference<br />
industry<br />
in the global travel industry<br />
despite economic challenges,<br />
how AI is changing the<br />
industry, and how companies<br />
are embracing it. The focus<br />
remained on sustainability, with<br />
travellers’ needs being taken<br />
into account in order to achieve<br />
sustainability goals. Norbert<br />
Fiebig, President of the German<br />
Travel Association (DRV), took<br />
a look at the latest travel trends<br />
and the economic prospects<br />
for the German travel industry<br />
in <strong>2024</strong>, underlining that<br />
despite ongoing international<br />
challenges, “Germans´ desire to<br />
travel is as strong as ever.”<br />
The diversity of the exhibition<br />
was a focal point, showcasing<br />
innovations in Mobility,<br />
Travel Technology, and<br />
Cruise segments. Over 5,500<br />
exhibitors from 170 countries<br />
are participating this year,<br />
illustrating <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin's role as<br />
a meeting place for the travel<br />
industry as a whole.<br />
Findings from the Global Travel<br />
Buyer Index survey, presented<br />
during the conference, offered<br />
insight into buying trends and<br />
the economic outlook of leading<br />
industry buyers, highlighting the<br />
sector’s mood and expectations.<br />
Launched for the first time in<br />
2023, the <strong>ITB</strong> Innovation Radar<br />
platform has expanded and is<br />
featuring 16 innovations this<br />
year including B2B services for<br />
the hospitality sector and travel<br />
professionals, new services<br />
and sustainable concepts,<br />
and a preview of tomorrow’s<br />
upcoming trends.<br />
The opening press conference<br />
outlined the agenda for <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin<br />
<strong>2024</strong>, showcasing the event as a<br />
pivotal gathering for dialogue,<br />
innovation, and collaboration<br />
in the travel industry. With an<br />
impressive roster of speakers<br />
and participants, the conference<br />
paved the way for meaningful<br />
discussions and potential<br />
solutions to the challenges<br />
facing the global travel sector<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 15
I <strong>NEWS</strong> I<br />
“We are experiencing a new vision<br />
of tourism”<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin News spoke with ENIT CEO Ivana Jelinic in an exclusive<br />
interview about how Italy is adapting to travellers' new expectations<br />
Ivana Jelinic discussed the steps being taken by the tourism<br />
agency to strengthen the country's digital communication<br />
and highlighted Italy's commitment to sustainability in<br />
<strong>2024</strong>.<br />
Did the 2023 tourist season in Italy<br />
meet expectations?<br />
Italy is one of the most popular<br />
international destinations, and a<br />
long-standing favourite with its<br />
neighbouring countries, such as<br />
Germany. Around the world, Italy's<br />
charm makes it the leading market<br />
for Americans and the Chinese.<br />
Tourism in Italy is experiencing<br />
renewed vitality which is felt in the<br />
industry and the supply chain. There<br />
is a desire to experiment, to create<br />
new offerings to meet increasingly<br />
demanding customers' expectations.<br />
We are experiencing a new vision<br />
of tourism that takes into account<br />
accessibility, digitalisation, innovation,<br />
sustainability, and a new need to<br />
ensure that Italy's artistic and cultural<br />
heritage are available all year long.<br />
What are some of the dominant<br />
trends in tourists' expectations?<br />
Tourists no longer experience their<br />
holidays passively by photographing<br />
places of beauty, but want to actively<br />
immerse themselves in the social<br />
fabric of the places they visit. Trends<br />
are very much demand-driven, and<br />
the demand is made up of people<br />
around the world who influence each<br />
other on trends. The orientation is also<br />
influenced by international events,<br />
as well as ENIT's ability to make an<br />
impact on international buyers. Italy’s<br />
tourism offering is just as varied as the<br />
country’s geographical connotations.<br />
It is broken down by target group,<br />
time of year and experiences, all of<br />
which differ depending on the areas<br />
visited and the unique aspects of the<br />
locations.<br />
What strategies is ENIT adopting to<br />
promote Italy internationally as a<br />
prime destination for outdoor and<br />
nature tourism? Why is this market<br />
so strategically important now?<br />
Firstly, we have continuously analysed<br />
the outdoor sector through specific<br />
studies carried out with partners,<br />
and through our continuous dialogue<br />
with professionals at sectorspecific<br />
trade fairs and international<br />
events. On a European level, ENIT<br />
is working on projects dedicated to<br />
the development of nature trails that<br />
shine a spotlight on Italy’s unique,<br />
awe-inspiring landscapes. Given that<br />
sustainability is a growing concern in<br />
the tourism sector, ENIT is a leader in<br />
European green transition projects.<br />
With an academy and various<br />
funded programmes, it is helping<br />
drive companies to reach new green<br />
targets.<br />
What does ENIT do to encourage<br />
international tourism throughout the<br />
year?<br />
We carry out ongoing promotional<br />
initiatives, from the out-of-home<br />
type on major international websites<br />
and international transit hubs to the<br />
major media, events and trade fairs<br />
in all 5 continents. Our synergy with<br />
the institutions and the world of<br />
private stakeholders makes it possible<br />
to coordinate our operations, also<br />
thanks to constant direction and a<br />
joint observation point formed via the<br />
federal council present in ENIT.<br />
What are the main markets Italy<br />
is targeting for inbound tourism<br />
in <strong>2024</strong>? How do communication<br />
strategies differ depending on the<br />
market?<br />
The focus is on strengthening wellestablished<br />
and mature markets such<br />
as Germany and all neighbouring<br />
countries as well as on opening<br />
up to new frontiers. Meanwhile, the<br />
most promising markets are mainly<br />
emerging markets such as the Arab<br />
Emirates, South-East Asia and their<br />
user bases. Our horizon is absolutely<br />
geared towards making Italy a target<br />
destination for tourists from parts of<br />
the world that were interested in other<br />
markets until now. With China we have<br />
actively resumed our joint activities,<br />
especially through multiple digital and<br />
technological initiatives and tours for<br />
Chinese influencers. For several years<br />
now, ENIT has been implementing<br />
digital marketing activities, placing<br />
Italy in pole position in the Chinese<br />
online ecosystem<br />
16 <strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> news.itb.com
I <strong>NEWS</strong> I<br />
Italy at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong><br />
Hall 1.2 / Stands 107 – 107 A – 107 B – 107 C<br />
TUES<strong>DAY</strong>, 5 MARCH<br />
ENIT Hall 1.2 / Stand 107<br />
12:00p.m. - 1:00p.m.<br />
PRESS CONFERENCE: #WELCOMETOMERAVIGLIA<br />
Speakers:<br />
Daniela Garnero Santanchè, Minister of Tourism<br />
Alessandra Priante, ENIT President<br />
Ivana Jelinic, ENIT CEO<br />
Armando Varricchio, Italian Ambassador in Berlin<br />
Stefano Bonaccini, President Emilia Romagna Region<br />
TBC<br />
Luca Zaia, President Veneto Region TB<br />
Moderation: Alexander Mazza<br />
1:00p.m. - 2:00p.m.<br />
REFRESHMENT SPONSORED BY FEDERALBERGHI<br />
ISCHIA PROCIDA / CAMPI FLEGREI / COSTA<br />
VESUVIO / PENISOLA SORRENTINA<br />
2:00p.m. - 2:30p.m.<br />
PRESS CONFERENCE EMILIA ROMAGNA: VISIT<br />
EMILIA-ROMAGNA: CYCLING PARADISE AND <strong>NEWS</strong><br />
<strong>2024</strong><br />
Speakers:<br />
Stefano Bonaccini, President of Emilia-Romagna<br />
Region<br />
Andrea Corsini, Councillor for Mobility and Transport,<br />
Infrastructure, Tourism, Trade<br />
3:00p.m. - 3.30p.m.<br />
PRESS CONFERENCE MOLISE, AUTHENTIC<br />
EMOTIONS IN A TERRITORY TO DISCOVER<br />
Speakers:<br />
Salvatore Micone, Councillor for Culture, sport, tourism<br />
and traditions, territorial marketing and mountain<br />
development<br />
Angela Aufiero, Regional Councillor for Tourism and<br />
Culture<br />
4:00p.m. - 5:00p.m.<br />
PRESS CONFERENCE BASILICATA: ANOTHER<br />
SUDITALIA -... NATURE, FLAVOURS AND PASSIONS!<br />
Followed by an aperitif reception<br />
Speaker:<br />
Marcella Di Feo, APT Basilicata International Marketing<br />
WEDNES<strong>DAY</strong>, 6 MARCH<br />
ENIT Hall 1.2 / Stand 107<br />
10:30a.m. - 11:00a.m.<br />
PRESS CONFERENCE TUSCANY: FROM SLOW<br />
TOURISM TO CITY BREAK: A JOURNEY THROUGH<br />
NATURE AND CULTURE IN TUSCANY<br />
Speakers:<br />
Francesco Tapinassi, Director Toscana Promozione<br />
Leila Pruneti, Toscana Promozione<br />
Clara Svanera, Cultural Tourism Coordinator for<br />
Toscana Promozione<br />
Mariangela Dal Fovo, MFA Coordinator for Tuscany for<br />
the Turismo delle Radici (Roots Tourism) project<br />
Pasquale Iervolino, President Tuscan Roots for Turismo<br />
delle Radici<br />
11:30a.m. - 12.00p.m.<br />
PRESS CONFERENCE LIGURIA: TOURISM<br />
AND LIGURIA: A LOOK TO THE FUTURE<br />
Speaker:<br />
Sandro Pappalardo, ENIT Councillor<br />
Augusto Sartori, Councillor for Labour and Active<br />
Employment Policies, Transport, Relations with Trade<br />
Unions, Tourism, Tourism Fairs and Major Events<br />
12:00p.m.-1:00p.m.<br />
PRESENTATION ITA AIRWAYS: SUMMER 24,<br />
NEW DESTINATIONS, FLEET INNOVATION<br />
AND SUSTAINABILITY<br />
Followed by an aperitif reception<br />
Speakers:<br />
Pierfrancesco Carino, VP International Sales<br />
Carla Catuogno, Regional Manager Europe<br />
Rodney Cali, Country Manager Germany, Austria,<br />
Poland & Czech Republic<br />
2:00p.m. - 2:30p.m.<br />
PRESS CONFERENCE FRIULI VENEZIA GIULIA:<br />
NOVA GORICA AND GORIZIA: OUR "LITTLE <strong>BERLIN</strong>".<br />
A FLIGHT OVER THE BORDERS<br />
TO THE EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE 2025<br />
Speakers:<br />
Rodolfo Ziberna, Mayor of Gorizia<br />
Samo Turel, Mayor of Nova Gorica<br />
Moderation: Barbara Gruden<br />
2:30p.m. - 3:00p.m.<br />
ENIT PRESS CONFERENCE: LA MACCHINA DI<br />
SANTA ROSA: UNESCO HERITAGE<br />
Speakers:<br />
Sandro Pappalardo, ENIT Councillor<br />
Elena Palazzo, Councillor for Tourism<br />
Daniele Sabatini, Regional Councillor<br />
Mario L. Crea, President of the Regional Tourism<br />
Commission<br />
Paolo Giuntarelli, Director of Presidency Affairs,<br />
Tourism, Cinema, Audiovisual and Sport<br />
Massimo Mecarini, President of the Sodalizio dei<br />
Facchini della Macchina di Santa Rosa<br />
Raffaele Ascenzi, Designer of the Macchina di Santa<br />
Rosa<br />
3:00p.m.- 3.30p.m.<br />
PRESS CONFERENCE SICILY: LIVE AN AUTHENTIC<br />
EMOTION<br />
Speaker:<br />
Hon. Elvira Amata, Councillor for Tourism, Sport and<br />
Entertainment of the Sicilian Region<br />
3.30p.m. - 4:00p.m.<br />
PRESS CONFERENCE LAZIO: LAZIO PATHS<br />
TOWARDS THE JUBILEE<br />
Speakers:<br />
Elena Palazzo, Councillor for Tourism, Environment,<br />
Sport, Climate Change, Energy Transition, Sustainability<br />
Daniele Sabatini, Regional Councillor<br />
Mario Luciano Crea, President of the Regional<br />
Commission for Tourism<br />
Sandro Pappalardo, ENIT Councillor<br />
Paolo Giuntarelli, Director of Presidency Affairs,<br />
Tourism, Cinema, Audiovisual and Sport<br />
Roberto Battista, Director of Presidency Affairs,<br />
Tourism, Cinema, Audiovisual and Sport<br />
4:00p.m.- 5:00p.m.<br />
PRESS CONFERENCE PIEMONTE: PIEMONTE, THE<br />
EXPERIENCE YOU DON'T EXPECT. IN <strong>2024</strong> ALSO<br />
EUROPEAN CITY OF WINE<br />
Followed by regional wine tasting<br />
Speakers:<br />
Video message from Vittoria Poggio, Piemonte Region<br />
Councillor for Tourism and Marco Protopapa, Piemonte<br />
Region Councillor for Agriculture<br />
Mario Arosio, President of the "European City of Wine<br />
<strong>2024</strong>" Committee<br />
Federico Riboldi, Mayor of Casale Monferrato<br />
Sara Olivieri, Councillor for Commerce of the City of<br />
Ovada<br />
Paolo Lantero, Mayor of the City of Ovada<br />
THURS<strong>DAY</strong>, 7 MARCH<br />
ENIT Hall 1.2 / Stand 107<br />
11:00a.m. - 11:30a.m.<br />
PRESS CONFERENCE FEDERTERME: ITALCARES,<br />
THE ITALIAN ANSWER TO MEDICAL TOURISM<br />
Speakers:<br />
Raffaella Iarrapino, Project Manager Italcares,<br />
Federterme<br />
Maria Elena Rossi, Global Marketing Director ENIT<br />
12:00p.m. - 12:30p.m.<br />
PRESS CONFERENCE MUNICIPALITY OF<br />
VENICE: VENICE <strong>2024</strong><br />
Speaker:<br />
Luca Stevanato, Digital Marketing Manager Vela SpA<br />
12.30p.m. - 1:00p.m.<br />
PRESS CONFERENCE GERACE: YOU WILL LOVE<br />
GERACE!<br />
Followed by a tasting of typical products<br />
Speakers:<br />
Cosimo Caridi, Calabria Region Executive<br />
Salvatore Galluzzo, Mayor of Gerace<br />
Loredana Panetta, Head of Tourism and Culture<br />
Municipality of Gerace<br />
Roberto Quatraccione, Communication and Marketing<br />
Expert<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 17
I <strong>NEWS</strong> I<br />
ADVERTORIAL<br />
Get to know Taiwan better over a cup<br />
of tea at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong><br />
Taiwan Tourism Administration is bringing its traditional<br />
tea culture to <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin this year as an invitation to the<br />
European travel industry.<br />
Over the three days of the<br />
travel show, numerous cultural<br />
performance groups are<br />
showcasing the beauty of Taiwan<br />
on the world stage, and inviting<br />
global travellers to come and<br />
discover this destination. Visitors<br />
should take advantage of Taiwan<br />
Tourism's <strong>ITB</strong> Happy Hour<br />
Networking Event at the stand on<br />
5 March, to make new contacts, get<br />
the latest information about Taiwan<br />
and meet with various incoming<br />
agencies, airlines and hotels.<br />
Among Taiwan's latest promotions,<br />
the island is highlighting:<br />
FREE HALF-<strong>DAY</strong><br />
TRANSIT TOURS<br />
Transit and transfer passengers<br />
with 7 to 24-hour layovers before<br />
their next flight can sign up<br />
online to enjoy a free guided tour<br />
showcasing Taiwan's cultural and<br />
urban heritage covering Taipei,<br />
Taoyuan, and New Taipei City.<br />
Alternatively they have the option<br />
of using public transportation and<br />
explore the island on their own.<br />
TAIWAN PASS<br />
The Taiwan Pass is a flexible travel<br />
itinerary within 7 days. It includes<br />
an unlimited 3-day pass for Taiwan<br />
High-Speed Rail, a choice of one<br />
MRT network (Taipei, Kaohsiung,<br />
Taichung and Taoyuan) and one<br />
Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Pass.<br />
THE “LUCKY LAND”<br />
TRAVEL INCENTIVE<br />
Future visitors to Taiwan can<br />
register for the “The Lucky Land”<br />
incentive and stand a chance to<br />
win the draw upon arrival in Taiwan.<br />
The campaign is valid until June<br />
30, 2025 and visitors can register<br />
up to 7 days in advance before<br />
travelling to the island. Winners can<br />
pick a preferred travel incentive:<br />
EasyCard, iPass or accommodation<br />
vouchers, and can complete the<br />
lucky draw at the Lucky Land<br />
counter at the airport's arrivals<br />
Hall 26 / Stand 122<br />
TAIWAN<br />
HAPPY HOUR<br />
NETWORKING<br />
EVENT<br />
Tuesday 5 March<br />
from 5.00p.m.<br />
Hall 26<br />
Stand 122<br />
© mwalker<br />
QANTAS<br />
UNVEILS NON-<br />
STOP PARIS-<br />
PERTH SERVICE<br />
FROM SUMMER<br />
<strong>2024</strong><br />
Western Australia and its capital Perth<br />
will soon be a step closer to Europe. A<br />
new non-stop flight between Paris and<br />
Perth will take off on July 12 with Qantas.<br />
The 17-hour flight will operate four days a<br />
week during the European summer (and<br />
the Paris Olympics) on Qantas’ Boeing<br />
787 Dreamliner aircraft. Services will then<br />
move to three times a week from mid-<br />
August <strong>2024</strong>.<br />
The route will also provide connections<br />
for more than 70 destinations across the<br />
region, including Athens, Barcelona and<br />
Frankfurt. On the Perth side, European<br />
travellers will gain access to the rest of<br />
Australia<br />
Hall 5.2 / Stand 121<br />
18 <strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> news.itb.com
I <strong>NEWS</strong> I<br />
Click A Tree: "A full circle of education<br />
and biological benefits" in the Philippines<br />
Since last year, <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin News has partnered with Click A<br />
Tree as part of its journey to becoming carbon neutral. This<br />
year, <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin News will plant an additional 1,300 trees<br />
through the organisation.<br />
Click A Tree is involved in several<br />
meaningful sustainability projects,<br />
including planting trees, collecting<br />
plastic from the sea, creating<br />
educational opportunities, promoting<br />
opportunities for women, binding<br />
CO 2<br />
, protecting biodiversity, CSR and<br />
ESG projects.<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin News spoke with Chris<br />
Kaiser, Founder and CEO of Click<br />
A Tree, who described his recent<br />
experience in the Philippines<br />
witnessing the impact of Click A<br />
Tree's tree planting and plastic<br />
collecting and recycling activities<br />
firsthand.<br />
One of Chris' first impressions in<br />
the Philippines was how happy<br />
everyone was with the project locally,<br />
and how they could see the direct<br />
impact on jobs, education and the<br />
environment. He described how<br />
planting mangroves helps tackle<br />
the issue of deforestation on the<br />
coast, which means protecting the<br />
land from erosion and freak waves.<br />
The mangrove roots in turn provide<br />
a habitat and protection for small<br />
fish, mussels and crabs, which Chris<br />
said were really bouncing back from<br />
previous depletion. These small<br />
fish, mussels and crabs also use the<br />
mangrove roots to hide, meaning<br />
that they are protected from bigger<br />
predators and can reach maturity and<br />
continue to expand the population.<br />
This in turn is good for birds and the<br />
overall biodiversity of the area, which<br />
of course benefits the local fishermen.<br />
Chris Kaiser emphasised that the<br />
benefits of planting trees goes<br />
beyond the direct CO 2<br />
absorption,<br />
and also creates a virtuous cycle of<br />
more jobs, greater biodiversity, and<br />
increased education<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 19
I TRADE TALK I<br />
Travel is back,<br />
Philippe Garnier,<br />
encourages the<br />
WPW Performance Consulting<br />
specialises in hotel distribution,<br />
luxury sales and travel<br />
technology. Prior To WPW<br />
Performance Consulting,<br />
Philippe Garnier was IHG’s<br />
VP Third Party Distribution<br />
from 2018 to 2022, and he has<br />
been working in the hotel and<br />
hospitality industry since 2003.<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin News spoke with him<br />
in an exclusive interview about<br />
his impressions of the industry<br />
at the moment as well as his<br />
predictions for the future.<br />
Philippe Garnier<br />
Founder of WPW Performance Consulting<br />
THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY<br />
REMAINS ONE OF THE<br />
WORLD’S LARGEST<br />
EMPLOYERS AND ALL OF US<br />
WHO ARE LUCKY ENOUGH<br />
TO BE INVOLVED IN IT<br />
SHOULD CONTRIBUTE TO<br />
ITS GROWTH AND<br />
SUSTAINABILITY.<br />
20 <strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> news.itb.com
I TRADE TALK I<br />
but not the same as before<br />
Founder of WPW Performance Consulting,<br />
travel industry to stop comparing itself to 2019<br />
Do you think travel is back<br />
to where it was before the<br />
pandemic?<br />
Focusing on hotels, you could<br />
say that business has changed in<br />
three main ways: Firstly, the three<br />
traditional segments (business,<br />
leisure and groups) have evolved<br />
both in their nature and in their<br />
relative importance in the business<br />
mix. Secondly, ancillary revenue<br />
streams are growing, and hotels<br />
are not always well equipped to<br />
deliver on them. Finally, technology<br />
development is essential, however<br />
at a time when margins are under<br />
pressure, it is hard to finance<br />
technology and to implement it<br />
while minimising disruption to your<br />
existing business.<br />
What has changed in terms<br />
of business segments in the<br />
industry?<br />
One of the consequences of the<br />
pandemic has been a surge of<br />
leisure travel and a change in<br />
working patterns. Even though<br />
many businesses try to get staff<br />
back in offices, it seems that<br />
most employees who can prefer<br />
a blend of working at home and<br />
working in an office. In turn, this<br />
has an impact on business travel:<br />
companies’ travel budgets have<br />
durably been cut, which accounts<br />
for fewer business trips. Travellers<br />
who blend work from office and<br />
work from home have created a<br />
new category "work from hotel"<br />
or "bleisure" where a business trip<br />
can be extended for a few days<br />
to enjoy the destination and work<br />
from there. On the groups side, an<br />
exciting development is that many<br />
hotel brands are on the verge of<br />
enabling guests to book group<br />
bedrooms as well as meeting<br />
rooms online.<br />
Is it hard to capture ancillary<br />
revenue?<br />
If guests blend business and<br />
leisure during a hotel stay, chances<br />
are that they will be more receptive<br />
to additional services such as<br />
spa, golf, excursions etc. However,<br />
hotels occasionally find it diff icult<br />
to deliver; hotels have struggled<br />
to hire back to full staffing levels<br />
which may result in some services<br />
not being available. Furthermore,<br />
some of the ancillary services may<br />
not be directly controlled by the<br />
hotel but rather managed by a third<br />
party. Lastly, there is complexity in<br />
integrating the booking capability<br />
of ancillary services with some<br />
hotel property management<br />
systems or central reservation<br />
systems.<br />
Can hotels use technology to<br />
innovate faster?<br />
As a hotel chain CIO, you typically<br />
have two objectives. The first<br />
is to maintain your existing<br />
infrastructure in a stable condition<br />
so it can support your business<br />
without interruption; one of the<br />
best ways to do this would be<br />
to never innovate! The second<br />
objective is to innovate and<br />
implement new functionalities to<br />
keep a competitive edge.<br />
One of the best ways to do this<br />
would be not to be encumbered by<br />
legacy systems! With constrained<br />
resources in staff and budgets,<br />
it takes an incredible amount<br />
of discipline to successfully<br />
implement technology projects,<br />
especially when everyone is<br />
already thinking of the next big<br />
thing such as AI.<br />
As much as it’s easy to agree<br />
that AI will have an impact on the<br />
hotel business, it is hard to tell<br />
what this will be. Seven years<br />
ago, many were convinced that<br />
voice assistants such as Alexa<br />
would be the preferred medium<br />
to book travel, and yet this hasn’t<br />
happened.<br />
Are you confident about the<br />
future?<br />
The world is complex in <strong>2024</strong> and<br />
it is easy to find reasons to be<br />
concerned about the future. That<br />
said, I am truly impressed at the<br />
resourcefulness and innovations of<br />
all the players I interact with. The<br />
travel industry remains one of the<br />
world’s largest employers and all<br />
of us who are lucky enough to be<br />
involved in it should contribute to<br />
its growth and sustainability<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> IS<br />
A GREAT PLACE<br />
TO MEET NEW<br />
PEOPLE AND<br />
LEARN NEW<br />
THINGS<br />
Philippe Garnier did not hold back in his<br />
enthusiasm for <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin, praising both<br />
the show's size and diverse scope. He<br />
emphasised that one of the highlights is "to<br />
engage with existing and former colleagues<br />
and hear updates on their lives and their<br />
businesses", maintaining that this is not only<br />
pleasant and productive, but also essential<br />
for the industry's international community:<br />
"This makes us feel connected and<br />
reinforces our sense of belonging."<br />
The advantage to a show like <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin<br />
with its wide range of destinations is that<br />
even as an industry professional, there is<br />
always something new to learn about<br />
and spark your curiosity. Philippe Garnier<br />
suggested everyone should stop at a stand<br />
representing a business or region they are<br />
not familiar with. Even if doesn't seem like<br />
an immediate business opportunity, genuine<br />
curiosity is often rewarded in ways that are<br />
hard to predict. He cited a chance encounter<br />
he made in 2008 which led to a sustained<br />
business and long-lasting friendship: "We<br />
were faced with a business and technology<br />
problem we could not solve. A small startup<br />
came to our booth, we gave them a chance,<br />
our business problem was addressed, and<br />
this contract helped the company get to<br />
the scale of their ambitions. This is why I’m<br />
convinced that being curious, open minded<br />
and willing to learn is personally fulfilling but<br />
that it also leads to good business. Isn’t this<br />
what <strong>ITB</strong> is all about?"<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 21
I TRADE TALK I<br />
“Data is massive and<br />
growing exponentially”<br />
According to Goran Mrvoš, CEO of INFOSIT,<br />
technology and digital solutions in travel and tourism<br />
have played a major role in the success of the<br />
industry over the last decades, and will help power<br />
future growth<br />
Goran Mrvoš<br />
CEO, INFOSIT<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin News spoke to the CEO in an exclusive interview<br />
about the continued role of technology in the industry,<br />
as well as the trends and innovations to expect looking<br />
forward.<br />
What would you say is the place of<br />
technology and digital solutions<br />
in the travel and tourism industry<br />
today?<br />
If you look at any aspect of travel<br />
business today, it is intertwined with<br />
technology: operations and efficiency,<br />
sales and marketing, management<br />
of companies and destinations.<br />
From smooth online bookings and<br />
smart locks to payroll management,<br />
you cannot do it without technology.<br />
Digitalisation will keep opening up<br />
opportunities, but the key question is<br />
which ones to focus on.<br />
If you’ve been supplying software to<br />
hospitality companies for 21 years, like<br />
us, you need to deeply understand<br />
their business goals and operations<br />
—it is about much more than<br />
programming.<br />
What are some of the ways digital<br />
solutions can help companies in the<br />
travel and hospitality industry optimise<br />
their processes and offer customers a<br />
more bespoke experience?<br />
Possibilities seem endless—from<br />
the orchestration of communication<br />
across touchpoints to augmented<br />
reality experiences, and convenience<br />
in how travellers buy and manage their<br />
trips. We know that the personalisation<br />
of services and experiences is at the<br />
centre of travellers’ satisfaction. Digital<br />
solutions can help with that. Software<br />
has solved important aspects of loyalty<br />
challenges. Infosit DXP, for example,<br />
is a central platform underlying<br />
direct online sales and marketing of<br />
hospitality companies that need to<br />
optimise the delivery of experience<br />
on multiple digital touchpoints. It<br />
integrates booking engines, CRM, ERP,<br />
MarTech, and other systems. Through<br />
integration, it provides unique loyalty<br />
solutions, and powers content delivery<br />
across channels and devices—from<br />
websites and campaign landing pages<br />
to TV sets in rooms and info-screens<br />
in lobbies.<br />
Of course, digital solutions allow<br />
companies to automate things, to<br />
get more visibility and transparency,<br />
to be more efficient. At the core<br />
operations level, it is often about<br />
digitising a specific need or process<br />
and integrating it with other systems<br />
in a smart way. This can go a long<br />
way towards improving efficiency and<br />
reducing costs.<br />
DIGITISING A<br />
SPECIFIC NEED OR<br />
PROCESS AND<br />
INTEGRATING IT<br />
WITH OTHER<br />
SYSTEMS IN A<br />
SMART WAY CAN GO<br />
A LONG WAY<br />
TOWARDS<br />
IMPROVING<br />
EFFICIENCY AND<br />
REDUCING COSTS.<br />
What role do data-driven analytics<br />
play in developing adapted digital<br />
solutions that help encourage<br />
consumer engagement and loyalty?<br />
Data is massive and growing<br />
exponentially. I think the industry<br />
has been successful in collecting it.<br />
Now, whether we’ve been equally<br />
successful in orchestrating it, and<br />
using it to improve engagement and<br />
loyalty, is another question. Again,<br />
companies need solutions that make<br />
sense in their specific circumstances.<br />
First you need to discover what you<br />
are trying to solve. Then you can build<br />
a solution that will address exactly that.<br />
The success of an implementation is<br />
measured by business outcomes<br />
TRAVEL<br />
TECHNOLOGY<br />
TRENDS:<br />
WHAT'S<br />
NEXT?<br />
When asked about his<br />
expectations for travel<br />
technology trends moving<br />
forward, Goran Mrvoš stated<br />
that there was likely to be a<br />
number of innovations based on<br />
generative AI, given its popularity<br />
with the industry and investors.<br />
He underlined however that not<br />
every innovation would represent<br />
the next tech revolution: "Some<br />
will be successful, some will not<br />
be. That’s where the investment<br />
and activity is focused right now."<br />
The INFOSIT CEO also<br />
highlighted the importance of<br />
near-shoring given the current<br />
geopolitical circumstances:<br />
"Concerns over data protection<br />
and security are growing, and<br />
partners delivering critical<br />
software solutions are under<br />
more scrutiny." He maintained<br />
that these concerns would<br />
continue to shape the digital<br />
ecosystem in the hospitality<br />
industry in the coming years<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 23
I EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW I<br />
H.E. Salim bin<br />
Mohammed<br />
Al Mahrouqi<br />
Minister of Heritage and<br />
Tourism of the Sultanate<br />
of Oman<br />
“Oman’s unique hospitality is often regarded<br />
as one of our national characteristics”<br />
Oman boasts an impressive history spanning 5,000 years as well as diverse landscapes<br />
and opportunities to explore nature. H.E. Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister<br />
of Heritage and Tourism for the Sultanate of Oman, spoke with <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin news in an<br />
exclusive interview about the country's developing touri sm market.<br />
WHEN WE MAKE PLANS<br />
FOR TOURISM DEVELOPMENT,<br />
WE ARE FULLY COMMITTED<br />
TO SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES<br />
AND AS ALL THIS TAKES<br />
SHAPE, WE ARE MINDFUL OF<br />
THE RESPONSIBILITY WE<br />
HAVE.<br />
Oman boasts an impressive history spanning 5,000 years as<br />
well as diverse landscapes and opportunities to explore nature.<br />
H.E. Salim Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism for the<br />
Sultanate of Oman, spoke with <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin news in an exclusive<br />
interview about the country's developing tourism market.<br />
How did Oman tourism and travel<br />
perform in 2023?<br />
In total, four million tourists arrived in<br />
Oman in 2023, up from 2.9 million in<br />
2022, a rise of 37.9%. Thanks to Oman’s<br />
diverse natural terrain and growing<br />
number of attractions, domestic<br />
tourism remained strong last year.<br />
Adventure, eco and luxury tourism<br />
enjoyed particular success and are<br />
expected to continue to grow as a result<br />
of substantial investment in projects<br />
such as the Mandarin Oriental Hotel and<br />
Apartments, The Chedi in the Eastern<br />
24 <strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> news.itb.com
I EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW<br />
I<br />
Musandam<br />
@ Oman Convention<br />
Part of Oman, Al Jebal Al Akhdar Adventure<br />
Resort, the Janain Salalah agritourism<br />
project, the St Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort<br />
and the recently announced Bandar Al<br />
Khairan Anantara Resort.<br />
Muscat’s Port Sultan Qaboos, Port of<br />
Salalah and Port of Khasab welcomed over<br />
248,000 passengers from 142 cruise ships in<br />
2023. This represented a year-on-year rise<br />
of 66.4% in terms of passengers and 91.8%<br />
in terms of ships.<br />
Oman is this year’s official <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin Host<br />
Country. What are you highlighting at the<br />
show?<br />
We will be highlighting Oman’s unique,<br />
and may I say renowned, hospitality which<br />
is often regarded as one of our national<br />
characteristics. It is something that<br />
expresses itself in the heartfelt warmth<br />
visitors receive and in the genuine curiosity<br />
everyone has to learn more about the<br />
cultures of those who come to our shores.<br />
We will be making sure <strong>ITB</strong> attendees get a<br />
taste of this hospitality for themselves as we<br />
shine a light on our traditions with a variety<br />
of events.<br />
What are the fastest growing segments in<br />
the travel and tourism industry in Oman?<br />
Our outdoor segment is growing very fast.<br />
The Sultanate of Oman has so much to offer<br />
in this regard—from hiking in the beautiful<br />
Al Hajar Mountains and canyoning in one of<br />
our 60 wadis to snorkelling and diving along<br />
our stunning coastline, much of which is<br />
practically untouched.<br />
What are the most important inbound<br />
markets? Which markets are you targeting<br />
specifically for growth?<br />
The GCC states, India and Germany are our<br />
top three inbound markets. The GCC with<br />
1.6 million visitors in 2023 made up 40%<br />
of all our visitors. This was followed by<br />
610,000 from India, up 71% on 2022, and<br />
231,000 from Germany, up 182%. Looking at<br />
Europe specifically, Germany, UK and Italy<br />
are the strongest countries for us.<br />
While our biggest growth market in 2023<br />
was China, with a 273% rise on the year, we<br />
see a lot of potential for growth from Russia,<br />
Switzerland, Poland and Scandinavia.<br />
Are there any particular events which<br />
travellers can look forward to in <strong>2024</strong>?<br />
We have a full and varied calendar of events<br />
throughout the year. For instance, there<br />
are the fabulous musical performances<br />
at the Royal Opera House Muscat while<br />
on the sporting side, there are lots of<br />
exciting competitions for runners and<br />
triathletes. The Omani coastal town of Sur<br />
is the Arab Tourism Capital <strong>2024</strong>. We are<br />
thrilled to have this outstanding chance to<br />
showcase our rich heritage.<br />
Looking to the future. What is your longterm<br />
vision and what are some of the key<br />
challenges that you foresee? What is your<br />
plan to overcome these challenges?<br />
We have ambitious plans in place, with<br />
over €4 billion of investment funnelled into<br />
projects. These range from the construction<br />
of integrated tourism complexes and luxury<br />
resorts – places like the Envi Al Jabal Al<br />
Akhdar Ecolodge, Yiti’s Nikki Beach Resort<br />
and Spa and the Four Sesons Muscat<br />
at Marina Bandar Al Rowdha – to the<br />
preservation of heritage sites and historical<br />
monuments.<br />
I would like to emphasise that when we<br />
make plans for tourism development, we<br />
are fully committed to sustainable practices<br />
and as all this takes shape, we are mindful<br />
of the responsibility we have<br />
OMAN HIGHLIGHTS<br />
AT <strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong><br />
The Sultanate of Oman will have a strong presence over<br />
all three days of <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin, with a number of exciting<br />
conferences and events. In addition to a stand of around<br />
800 square metres in hall 2.2, the official host country will<br />
also have a presence in the Youth Travel and Economy<br />
Accommodation and Adventure Travel and Responsible<br />
Tourism segments in hall 4.1.<br />
TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 MARCH<br />
The official opening tour of <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin will take place<br />
this morning on the host country's stand in hall 2.2 with<br />
a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by the Minister of<br />
Heritage and Tourism of Oman, the Governing Mayor of<br />
Berlin, the Secretary-General of UN Tourism and the CEO<br />
of Messe Berlin.<br />
12.45p.m. / PANEL DISCUSSION<br />
"How do we achieve NetZero in tourism?"<br />
Featuring H.E. Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi<br />
Location: Lighthouse Stage<br />
2.45p.m.<br />
"Omani Adventure Tourism - Experience the Journey<br />
of Discovery and Self-Actualisation"<br />
With the participation of Destination Management<br />
Companies (DMCs) from Oman<br />
Location: Lighthouse Stage<br />
WEDNES<strong>DAY</strong> 6 MARCH<br />
10:40a.m.<br />
"Re-Defining Visitor Experience: It is all About<br />
Authenticity"<br />
H.E. Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi<br />
Location: Destination Track - Hall 7.1, Blue Stage<br />
The Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra concert<br />
Philharmonie Berlin at 8 p.m. (tickets must be purchased)<br />
Under the direction of Hamdan Al Shuaili<br />
THURS<strong>DAY</strong> 7 MARCH<br />
10:30a.m.<br />
"The Role of Gastronomy in Community<br />
Empowerment:<br />
Lessons from Oman"<br />
Location: Hall 5.3, Hybrid Stage<br />
Hall 2.2 / Stand 201 & 205 Hall 4.1 / Stand 200<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 25
I REGION I OMAN I<br />
ADVERTORIAL<br />
Reimagined Elegance: The Chedi<br />
Muscat Launches New Serai Rooms<br />
@ Visit Oman<br />
The Chedi Muscat, one of the<br />
Omani capital's flagship hotels, has<br />
launched newly renovated rooms in<br />
the Serai Wing of the resort to elevate<br />
the guest experience. According<br />
to the resort, it prioritised valuable<br />
guest feedback in this project in<br />
order to create 61 redesigned rooms<br />
that embody the hotel’s signature<br />
fusion of elegant, traditional Asianstyle<br />
and Omani architecture.<br />
The Serai rooms now include a wider<br />
mini bar offering, and feature kingsized<br />
beds with interconnecting and<br />
twin-room options, making them<br />
an ideal haven for family holidays.<br />
Since its opening, The Chedi Muscat<br />
has established itself as a leader in<br />
global hospitality, earning a number<br />
of awards such as the most recent<br />
Condé Nast Traveller Readers’<br />
Choice Award as one of the Middle<br />
East’s Top Hotels and being named<br />
Oman’s Leading Luxury Resort<br />
in 2023. The resort has also been<br />
recognised by Travel + Leisure in its<br />
<strong>2024</strong> World’s Best Awards<br />
Hall 2.2 / Stands 201 & 205<br />
Oman's heritage and<br />
hospitality just a click away<br />
with Visit Oman gateway<br />
Discover the magic of<br />
the Royal Opera House Muscat<br />
at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong><br />
The Royal Opera House Muscat<br />
(ROHM) plays a pioneering role<br />
in bringing the best of world-class<br />
international performances to Oman.<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin visitors can discover the<br />
programme of this unique institution<br />
on Oman's stand, where ROHM is<br />
a co-exhibitor. Performances at the<br />
ROHM include Turandot, staged by<br />
Franco Zeffirelli, world premieres of<br />
Lakmé, the Magic Flute (I Barrochisti<br />
Orchestra) and Verdi’s Rigoletto,<br />
Deutsche Opera Berlin’s Hansel und<br />
Gretel and Britten’s A Midsummer<br />
Night’s Dream.<br />
For travellers wanting to take a look<br />
behind the scenes, the Royal Opera<br />
House Muscat is a destination in<br />
its own right and its permanent<br />
exhibition and gallery of antique<br />
music instruments are open for<br />
visits<br />
@ Khalid Al-Busaidi, ROHM<br />
Hall 2.2 / Stand 201<br />
@ Khalid Al-Busaidi, ROHM<br />
As the Official Host Country of <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong>, Oman<br />
invites visitors to discover its landscapes, rich heritage, and<br />
genuine hospitality through its innovative, fully integrated<br />
booking gateway - Visit Oman. This user-friendly website<br />
offers a one-stop solution for travel agents and travellers<br />
eager to explore this thriving destination.<br />
With IATA accreditation, over 60<br />
airlines, 200 suppliers and a full<br />
suite of services available, Visit<br />
Oman seamlessly connects the<br />
entire Omani travel supply chain –<br />
flights, accommodation, transfers,<br />
tour operators, experiences, and<br />
more.<br />
Through strategic partnerships with<br />
key source markets and Omani<br />
suppliers, Visit Oman provides<br />
a trustworthy and high-quality<br />
service, with simplicity at its core,<br />
connecting tourists and travel trade<br />
partners from all around the world<br />
with trusted local tourism providers<br />
in Oman<br />
booking, and connecting make<br />
operations more efficient. The<br />
gateway offers a number of tailored<br />
services for travel agencies, who<br />
can for example buy set packages,<br />
or create their own package to<br />
match the needs of their customers,<br />
thanks to the platform's dynamic<br />
packaging function.<br />
Visitors to <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin can test the<br />
Visit Oman platform firsthand,<br />
as tablets will be available for<br />
demonstrations on the Oman stand.<br />
The platform makes it easier than<br />
ever to plan a trip to Oman with<br />
trusted and vetted suppliers<br />
Potential business partners gain<br />
access to a wide array of Omani<br />
experiences and partners and the<br />
streamlined processes for listing,<br />
Hall 2.2 / Stand 201 & 205<br />
Hall 4.1 / Stand 200<br />
26 <strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> news.itb.com
I REGION I MIDDLE EAST I<br />
The Middle East's tourism gems shine<br />
at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong><br />
Destinations from the Middle East are making<br />
a significant impact at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong>, further<br />
expanding on their strong representation from<br />
previous years. This year, they are showcasing rich<br />
cultural experiences and diverse tourism offerings,<br />
with a notable presence in several halls of the<br />
exhibition.<br />
Hall 2.2 is a focal point for the<br />
Middle East at the show, with<br />
Oman, the Official Host Country<br />
of <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong>, notably<br />
doubling its display area to<br />
800 square meters compared<br />
to last year, underlining its<br />
commitment to the tourism<br />
industry. Oman's presence is<br />
not only significant in terms of<br />
size but also in the diversity of<br />
its offer, with an additional stand<br />
in the Adventure Travel segment<br />
located in Hall 4.1, showcasing<br />
the country's unique blend of<br />
natural beauty and adventure<br />
tourism opportunities.<br />
Bahrain and the United Arab<br />
Emirates (UAE) are also strongly<br />
represented, reflecting their<br />
ongoing desire to promote their<br />
tourism sectors on the global<br />
stage. The UAE, in particular,<br />
Bahrain: A string of musical<br />
events in <strong>2024</strong><br />
Whether you are a fan of jazz, hard rock or traditional<br />
singers such as Mohammed Abdu and Khalid Al<br />
Shaikh, Bahrain has musical events for every taste<br />
coming up this year.<br />
At <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong>, Bahrain is<br />
showcasing its cultural and<br />
sports events as an integral<br />
part of its tourism offer. While<br />
the kingdom is known for its<br />
sporting events like the Bahrain<br />
Grand Prix, music is also very<br />
much in the spotlight, with many<br />
concerts and festivals taking<br />
place throughout the year. The<br />
Kingdom will host two of the<br />
region's most famous singers,<br />
is making a notable return with<br />
the participation of Emirates<br />
airline, signifying the pivotal role<br />
that air connectivity plays in the<br />
region's tourism growth.<br />
In Hall 4.2, the largest exhibitor<br />
is Saudi, demonstrating its<br />
vast and ambitious tourism<br />
projects and cultural heritage.<br />
Jordan and Qatar also have a<br />
significant presence this year,<br />
with Qatar Airways securing a<br />
spot in the hall<br />
Hall 2.2 / Hall 4.1 / Hall 4.2<br />
Saudi Mohammed Abdu and<br />
Bahraini Khalid Al Shaikh on<br />
April 19, <strong>2024</strong>, bringing a unique<br />
blend of exceptional musical<br />
performances and captivating<br />
melodies to the Al Dana<br />
Amphitheatre.<br />
On April 26, Bahrain will hold its<br />
biggest national music festival,<br />
the Bahrain Jazz Fest, which<br />
brings together jazz musicians<br />
from around the world and<br />
Bahrain. Since its inception in<br />
2017, the festival has seen more<br />
than 30,000 visitors over the<br />
last 6 years enjoying over 30<br />
international and local artists.<br />
The <strong>2024</strong> edition of the Bahrain<br />
Jazz Fest will be held at the<br />
Royal Golf Club<br />
Hall 2.2 / Stand 202<br />
© Messe Berlin GmbH<br />
Camels on the beach, Salalah, Dhofar Â<br />
EXCEPTIONAL<br />
GROWTH IN THE<br />
MIDDLE EAST<br />
The Middle East was one of the best<br />
performing regions in world tourism<br />
in 2023, according to UN Tourism's<br />
annual barometer. With 87.1 million<br />
international tourists, numbers were<br />
up by 22% over 2019.<br />
The Middle East's wave of new tourism projects,<br />
numerous marketing campaigns and continuous<br />
expansion of air connections appear to have paid<br />
off in 2023 as the region welcomed 87.1 million<br />
international travellers. Several destinations<br />
enjoyed exceptional results, among which Qatar<br />
(+90%) and Saudi Arabia (+56%) recorded<br />
some of the highest growth rates in tourist<br />
arrivals in the world. Qatar was actually the<br />
world champion in the growth of international<br />
tourist arrivals. The Emirate welcomed over<br />
4 million travellers, its highest performance in<br />
5 years.<br />
The opening up of Saudi also bore fruit. The<br />
destination received 100 million visits in<br />
2023, including 27 million international visits,<br />
marking Saudi's emergence as a global tourism<br />
powerhouse.<br />
Dubai, another strong performer in the<br />
Middle-East, recorded 19% more international<br />
travellers in 2023. The Emirate saw 17.15 million<br />
international overnight visitors compared to<br />
16.73 million in 2019, until now the city's record<br />
87.1<br />
million<br />
international<br />
travellers to the<br />
Middle East in 2023<br />
+ 56%<br />
Saudi Tourism<br />
Y-to-Y growth rate<br />
last year<br />
© Ministry of Heritage & Tourism Sultanate of Oman<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 27
I REGION I MIDDLE EAST I<br />
Jordan's historic sites<br />
take travellers back in<br />
time<br />
Jordan is highlighting its millennial heritage at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin<br />
<strong>2024</strong>, giving visitors to the show a sneak peak of the<br />
extraordinary history the destination has to offer. Many<br />
sites remain incredibly well preserved today, with six of<br />
them UNESCO-classified.<br />
AS-SALT<br />
As-Salt, located 30 km northwest<br />
of Amman, it is known for its wellpreserved<br />
Ottoman architecture.<br />
The historical centre with its narrow<br />
alleyways, stairs and picturesque<br />
views offers a unique flair in Jordan,<br />
reflecting a tolerant and multicultural<br />
society.<br />
PETRA<br />
Petra is undoubtedly Jordan's most<br />
famous World Heritage Site and one<br />
of the Seven Wonders of the Modern<br />
World. Petra was founded in the 3rd<br />
century BC and at its peak, between<br />
30,000 and 40,000 people lived here.<br />
WADI RUM<br />
The World Heritage Site of Wadi<br />
Rum is well-known as a backdrop<br />
to famous films such as "Lawrence<br />
of Arabia", "Star Wars", "Dune" and<br />
"Transformers". The reddish desert<br />
with its steeply rising sandstone and<br />
granite cliffs is considered one of<br />
the most beautiful landscapes in the<br />
world, and it can be explored by jeep,<br />
camel or hiking along the famous<br />
Jordan Trail.<br />
Al-Balad: Reviving the<br />
heart of a historic trade and<br />
pilgrimage hub<br />
The Jeddah Historic District programme is promoting the<br />
historical centre of Jeddah or Al-Balad, a UNESCO World<br />
Heritage Site since 2014, at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin this year.<br />
Old Jeddah Al Balad architecture<br />
© Francisco Anzola-Flickr<br />
QUSAIR AMRA<br />
Qusair Amra is a small desert palace<br />
with ornate frescoes from the 8th<br />
century, a unique testimony to the<br />
Umayyad architecture. A zodiac sign<br />
on the domed ceiling of the caldarium<br />
(warm room) is one of the world's<br />
oldest surviving depictions of a<br />
celestial map.<br />
UMM AR-RASAS<br />
Umm ar-Rasas, once a Roman fort,<br />
is an important Christian pilgrimage<br />
centre with 16 churches covered with<br />
its mosaic depicting biblical scenes.<br />
Outside the city stands a stylite tower<br />
14 m high, probably the last surviving<br />
one of its kind.<br />
Visitors to <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin can stop by<br />
Jordan's stand for more information<br />
Umm ar-Rasas<br />
Jeddah was, for centuries, one of the<br />
largest and richest entry gates for<br />
pilgrims to Mecca, also attracting<br />
traders and merchants to its shores on<br />
their way along the ancient Silk Road.<br />
Being both a major port for Indian<br />
Ocean trade routes and the gateway<br />
for Muslim pilgrims turned the city into<br />
a multicultural centre with distinctive<br />
architecture. Today, Al-Balad, Jeddah's<br />
historic district, is testimony to these<br />
flourishing times. The quarter, with its<br />
narrow streets and alleyways lined<br />
with traditional souks, art galleries,<br />
and museums, is turning into a top<br />
attraction for travellers. The district<br />
offers some 650 historic buildings with<br />
distinctive architecture that reflects<br />
the resourcefulness and adaptation<br />
of its people to their environment. Al-<br />
Balad has also 36 historic mosques<br />
and 24 "ribat"; small fortified posts,<br />
inside the Saudi coastal city.<br />
on these unique historical sites and<br />
discover Jordan's full range of tourism<br />
offers.<br />
THE BAPTISMAL SITE<br />
OF JESUS<br />
Al-Maghtas, officially known as<br />
"Bethany beyond the Jordan", is the<br />
second youngest UNESCO World<br />
Heritage Site in Jordan. The site was<br />
added to the list in 2015. According<br />
to research, John the Baptist is said to<br />
have baptized Jesus here<br />
Hall 4.2 / Stand 100 Hall 4.1 / Stand 222<br />
As-Salt<br />
Under the supervision of the Ministry<br />
of Culture, the Jeddah Historic District<br />
programme is leading the efforts<br />
in the regeneration of the historical<br />
center of Jeddah. In addition to the<br />
restoration of the old tower houses<br />
and mansions, many projects are<br />
under development such as the<br />
Jeddah Historic Waterfront and a<br />
Cultural Square. Other developments<br />
include the establishment of historical<br />
restaurants and around 3,000 hotel<br />
rooms. The authorities are targeting<br />
some 20 million visits per year in the<br />
district by 2035.<br />
At this year's <strong>ITB</strong>, Jeddah Historic<br />
District will unveil three new hotels<br />
that have opened in the heart of the<br />
UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn<br />
more by visiting the Visit Saudi stand<br />
today at 2pm!<br />
Hall 4.2 / Stand 202<br />
30 <strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> news.itb.com
I REGION I MIDDLE EAST I<br />
ADVERTORIAL<br />
Tailored adventures await with Abu Dhabi's<br />
“Find Your Pace” campaign<br />
Experience Abu Dhabi recently unveiled its new global<br />
campaign, "Find Your Pace", which aims to inspire curiosity<br />
for every type of traveller, presenting the destination’s<br />
hidden gems and popular attractions through a new lens.<br />
restores, allowing visitors to escape;<br />
and it excites, through entertainment<br />
and adventure<br />
Hall 2.2 / Stand 200<br />
With "Find Your Pace", Experience<br />
Abu Dhabi encourages visitors to<br />
create their own unique journey, from<br />
the known to the unknown, through<br />
ancient heritage sites and iconic<br />
modern treasures. It showcases the<br />
pursuits, passions, and colour palettes<br />
that visitors will uncover within the<br />
destination—whether they are seeking<br />
the thrill of adventure, immersive<br />
cultural experiences, or a relaxing<br />
break.<br />
With rhythm, music and vibrant<br />
settings, "Find Your Pace" follows<br />
four characters as they explore<br />
Abu Dhabi for the first time, taking<br />
journeys that inspire, excite, and<br />
restore. Destination highlights include<br />
the Al Ain Oasis, Sheikh Zayed Grand<br />
Mosque, inspiring Qasr Al Watan, and<br />
the renowned Louvre Abu Dhabi, as<br />
well as the vast Green Mubazzarah,<br />
and the Al Wathba Fossil Dunes. The<br />
creative story positions Abu Dhabi<br />
as a must-visit destination where<br />
everyone is welcome to discover it in<br />
their own way.<br />
"Find Your Pace" highlights that<br />
Abu Dhabi has something for<br />
everyone based on their interests.<br />
The destination inspires, educating<br />
creatively and enriching lives; it<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 31
I REGION I MIDDLE EAST I<br />
© Saudi Tourism Authority<br />
Fahd<br />
Hamidaddin<br />
Saudi Tourism<br />
Authority CEO<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> 2023<br />
WAS A HUGE SUCCESS<br />
AND BROUGHT A LOT<br />
OF AWARENESS<br />
ABOUT THE<br />
EMERGENCE OF<br />
SAUDI AS A FULL-<br />
FLEDGED TOURISM<br />
DESTINATION.<br />
Saudi Tourism:<br />
Steering towards<br />
Vision 2030<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin News spoke with Saudi Tourism<br />
Authority CEO Fahd Hamidaddin in an exclusive<br />
interview about Saudi's skyrocketing arrival<br />
figures last year and the bright future that awaits<br />
the destination in the years to come<br />
32 <strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> news.itb.com
I REGION I MIDDLE EAST I<br />
© Saudi Tourism Authority<br />
© Saudi Tourism Authority<br />
© Saudi Tourism Authority<br />
Souk<br />
Diriyah<br />
Farasan Island<br />
Saudi tourism is booming, with 27 million international<br />
visits counted in 2023. Saudi aims to further increase this<br />
figure to 70 million by the end of the decade, and has a<br />
range of strategies and campaigns in place to live up to<br />
this ambitious goal. CEO Fahd Hamidaddin outlined his<br />
optimistic vision for the future, underlining the importance<br />
of sustainability and accessibility.<br />
Saudi tourism was present for the<br />
first time at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin last year with<br />
an impressive stand and a large<br />
number of co-exhibitors. What can<br />
visitors expect from Saudi at <strong>ITB</strong><br />
Berlin this year?<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin 2023 was a huge success<br />
and brought a lot of awareness about<br />
the emergence of Saudi as a fullfledged<br />
tourism destination. Over 10<br />
MoU partnerships were signed at <strong>ITB</strong><br />
Berlin last year with conversations<br />
leading to more partnerships<br />
and opportunities in our tourism<br />
offerings. This year, Saudi Tourism<br />
Authority is improving awareness with<br />
European consumers to build demand<br />
which our partners will then be able<br />
to convert into bookings. As the most<br />
dynamic destination in the world,<br />
Saudi offers potential partners an<br />
opportunity for growth while delivering<br />
on its tourism commitments.<br />
How well did Saudi Arabia's tourism<br />
industry perform in 2023?<br />
His Excellency Minister of Tourism<br />
Ahmed Al-Khateeb recently<br />
announced that Saudi saw more than<br />
100 million tourists in 2023, including<br />
27 million international visits. This<br />
represents 156% more arrivals in<br />
2023 compared to 2019 according<br />
to the latest UNWTO Tourism<br />
Barometer. For the first nine months<br />
of 2023, UNWTO also named Saudi<br />
as the world's second-fastest-growing<br />
tourist destination, and the leading<br />
one among G20 countries. Tourism’s<br />
contribution to GDP has risen to 6.4%<br />
marking progress towards a target<br />
of 10% by 2030, and the sector is set<br />
to create more than 560,000 jobs<br />
between <strong>2024</strong> and 2031.<br />
Saudi's Vision 2030 is a very<br />
ambitious tourism development<br />
plan. How is the plan progressing?<br />
What are some your most recent<br />
achievements, and what major<br />
developments can we expect for the<br />
coming year?<br />
Vision 2030 aims to attract 150 million<br />
visits, including 70 million international<br />
tourists by 2030. To achieve this<br />
target, we have implemented many<br />
measures to stimulate arrivals. We<br />
have made access to Saudi Arabia<br />
easier than ever with our expanding<br />
eVisa programme. It now includes 63<br />
countries and administrative regions<br />
and is also available for travellers<br />
holding a UK, US and Schengen<br />
visa. We have introduced a Stopover<br />
Visa for passengers travelling on<br />
national air carriers, SAUDIA, and<br />
flynas, enabling them to spend up to<br />
96 hours in the Kingdom without any<br />
other administrative formalities.<br />
We are also working on increasing<br />
air connectivity through a $100<br />
billion (approximately €92 billion)<br />
Saudi Aviation Strategy that will see<br />
the number of new air routes more<br />
than doubling to 250 by 2030, while<br />
tripling annual passenger traffic to 330<br />
million.Riyadh’s new King Salman<br />
International Airport will be one of the<br />
world’s largest airports with a capacity<br />
of 120 million travellers by 2030. <br />
The Saudi Government has committed<br />
$800 billion (approximately €738<br />
billion) to the sector with over $500<br />
billion (approximately €461 billion)<br />
investment in new destinations. This<br />
has opened up $6 trillion<br />
(approximately €5.53 trillion) worth of<br />
investment opportunities in Saudi up<br />
until 2030.<br />
In the context of the Saudi Green<br />
Initiative, sustainability is a key<br />
priority. How is this initiative being<br />
applied to new tourism projects?<br />
What are some of its recent<br />
sustainability achievements?<br />
Saudi is the region's green tourism<br />
destination powerhouse, pioneering<br />
a brand-new model of development<br />
that prioritises sustainability. By 2030,<br />
Saudi aims to preserve a total land<br />
area 11 times the size of Belgium<br />
and has committed to protecting<br />
20% of its terrestrial, coastal, and<br />
marine environments. To date, 100%<br />
of Saudi’s iconic Giga projects have<br />
been developed with sustainable<br />
practices at the core of their designs—<br />
future-proofing our destinations and<br />
reinforcing our promise to protect the<br />
wonders of Arabia.<br />
As an example, Red Sea Global aims to<br />
become a regenerative tourism project<br />
that goes beyond sustainability. Two of<br />
Red Sea Global’s flagship destinations,<br />
TRSP and AMAALA, will be powered<br />
by renewable energy, including the<br />
construction of the world’s largest<br />
battery storage facility. Red Sea Global<br />
wants to establish the region’s largest<br />
no-take Marine Protected Area (MPA),<br />
which should increase fish biomass<br />
in the region by 30%. Finally, 3.6<br />
million plants and trees have been<br />
grown since June 2021 as part of the<br />
Project with plans to import 30 million<br />
more by 2026—making the largest<br />
landscape nursery in the Middle East<br />
SAUDI ARABIA SUPPORTS<br />
A SCHENGEN-STYLE VISA FOR SIX<br />
GULF COUNTRIES<br />
Saudi along with members of the<br />
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)<br />
recently approved the launch a<br />
common tourist visa modelled<br />
on the existing Schengen visa.<br />
The common visa will be valid<br />
in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar,<br />
Saudi Arabia and the United Arab<br />
Emirates.<br />
This type of visa will only be<br />
available for leisure and business<br />
tourists. The visa will have a 30-<br />
day validity and be available<br />
online. It should be launched<br />
between the second half of <strong>2024</strong><br />
and the first quarter of 2025.<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 33
I REGION I MIDDLE EAST I<br />
ADVERTORIAL<br />
“We will play a huge role in opening Saudi<br />
up to the world”<br />
Vincent Coste, Chief Commercial Officer for Riyadh Air, believes in<br />
the power of technology and the benefit of launching a new airline<br />
with a completely clean slate<br />
Riyadh Air is a brand new airline whose maiden<br />
flight is scheduled for 2025. As an integral part of<br />
Saudi 's tourism strategy Vision 2030, the airline<br />
aims to connect the destination to the world.<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin News spoke with Vincent Coste in<br />
an exclusive interview about the strategies and<br />
priorities of Riyadh Air.<br />
From Riyadh Air's perspective,<br />
how important is participating<br />
in <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin? What are some<br />
of your main goals at the show<br />
this year?<br />
We are celebrating our first<br />
anniversary this month, so<br />
we’re still new and introducing<br />
ourselves to people which is<br />
why networking at events like<br />
this is so beneficial.<br />
Our goal for <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin this<br />
year is to continue to spread<br />
the word of Riyadh Air, as we<br />
build towards our maiden flight<br />
in 2025.<br />
When selecting new routes for<br />
Riyadh Air, what factors are<br />
crucial to ensure not only the<br />
viability of the route but also<br />
its contribution to the airline's<br />
network connectivity?<br />
We aim to fly to 100 countries by<br />
2030 so there are a lot of routes<br />
to consider. Geographically,<br />
Saudi is ideally placed to offer<br />
excellent connectivity to Africa,<br />
Asia and Europe. All routes will<br />
be selected to give our guests<br />
the best experience, whether<br />
they’re flying in or out of the<br />
Kingdom.<br />
As part of our broader<br />
objectives, Riyadh Air will act as<br />
a catalyst for Saudi’s National<br />
Transport and Logistics<br />
Strategy and many of the Saudi<br />
Vision 2030 goals. With our<br />
planned routes network, we<br />
will play a huge role in opening<br />
up the country to the world.<br />
Can you tell us more about<br />
the technologies Riyadh Air<br />
is implementing in order to<br />
create seamless experiences<br />
for passengers, from booking<br />
to boarding?<br />
Riyadh Air is committed to being<br />
at the forefront of technology,<br />
driving digital innovation at<br />
every touchpoint of our guest<br />
experience. We have partnered<br />
with industry leaders such as<br />
Accenture, Microsoft, Oracle,<br />
and Sabre to introduce<br />
pioneering technologies that<br />
will revolutionise air travel.<br />
From booking to arrival, our<br />
guests will enjoy a seamless<br />
journey enhanced by state-ofthe-art<br />
technology.<br />
How does Riyadh Air balance<br />
the use of technology with<br />
personalised service to ensure<br />
passengers feel valued and<br />
supported throughout their<br />
journey?<br />
One of the most important<br />
things for us as an airline is<br />
our guest experience, which<br />
is why we are committed to<br />
ensuring all of our guests have<br />
a memorable one.<br />
Being a digitally native airline<br />
means that we can better<br />
connect with our guests to<br />
ensure we achieve this goal.<br />
This is from the moment they<br />
start making a booking to the<br />
moment they land in their<br />
destination.<br />
Last year, we announced<br />
our partnership with IBM<br />
Consulting, who will be the<br />
lead systems integrator to<br />
support creating, building and<br />
orchestrating the technology<br />
foundation that can help<br />
Riyadh Air offer this exceptional<br />
service<br />
Hall 4.2 / Stand 202<br />
A SUSTAINABLE AIRLINE<br />
Riyadh Air is committed to reducing<br />
its environmental impact and<br />
supporting Saudi's sustainability<br />
goals. Vincent Coste stated that this<br />
priority is reflected in the airline's<br />
choice of aircraft: "Our fleet will be<br />
composed of over 70 modern Boeing<br />
787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, a model<br />
manufactured with environmental<br />
impact considerations in mind,<br />
including reduced CO 2<br />
emissions,<br />
optimising fuel efficiency and meeting<br />
noise regulations."<br />
Vincent Coste emphasised that it<br />
is Riyadh Air's goal to become "the<br />
leader in aviation sustainability" and<br />
said that the airline is committed to<br />
UNSDG principles, deploying SAF and<br />
other environmental fuels and Vision<br />
2030 and SGI to increase the use of<br />
GEOGRAPHICALLY,<br />
SAUDI IS IDEALLY<br />
PLACED TO OFFER<br />
EXCELLENT<br />
CONNECTIVITY TO<br />
AFRICA, ASIA AND<br />
EUROPE.<br />
clean energy and address climate<br />
change. He argued that Riyadh air was<br />
strategically positioned to become<br />
the most sustainable airline because<br />
it is so new: "By virtue of having the<br />
newest fleet of any airline, we will also<br />
have the most efficient aircraft and<br />
our new Dreamliner 787 aircrafts will<br />
reduce CO 2<br />
emissions by up to 30%<br />
with a 60% noise reduction"<br />
34 <strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> news.itb.com
ADVERTORIAL<br />
I REGION I MIDDLE EAST I<br />
Saudi invites visitors to discover the delightfully<br />
unexpected at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong><br />
Saudi's dynamic tourism offering is dispelling misconceptions and treating<br />
visitors to a range of diverse destinations, activities, and experiences<br />
Saudi is so much more than "just a desert". Thanks to<br />
its welcoming and open culture, abundant historical<br />
and heritage sites, pristine natural environment, and<br />
array of sports and entertainment events, it is one of<br />
the fastest growing tourist destinations in the world.<br />
CELEBRATING<br />
CULTURE<br />
Saudi offers a bustling cultural<br />
scene that boasts no fewer than<br />
seven UNESCO World Heritage<br />
Sites, including the historical Al<br />
Balad quarter in Jeddah, Saudi’s<br />
coastal cosmopolitan hub. Home<br />
to a diverse calendar of cultural<br />
events, Jeddah's ancient coral<br />
stone houses are being restored<br />
while new galleries, restaurants,<br />
luxury shops, and cafes are<br />
emerging to create a buzzing<br />
cultural scene.<br />
Travellers can also embrace<br />
Saudi culture at the Ushaiger<br />
Heritage Village in the heart of<br />
the Najd region to get a glimpse<br />
into traditional Saudi life, or take<br />
in Al Ahsa, the world’s largest<br />
oasis with 2.5m palm trees.<br />
In addition, Saudi prides itself<br />
on its over 10,000 archeological<br />
sites. Diriyah is a 300-year-old<br />
site centred around At-Turaif,<br />
which is considered to be the<br />
birthplace of the Saudi state.<br />
The ancient city of AlUla is an an<br />
open-air museum offering history<br />
and natural heritage. Hegra’s<br />
tombs house evidence of human<br />
life that dates beyond the 1st<br />
millennium BC.<br />
DIVERSE LANDSCAPES<br />
AND BOUNDLESS<br />
ACTIVITIES<br />
Stunning natural landscapes<br />
span mountains, deserts, and<br />
the sea, off ering visitors diverse<br />
experiences such as hiking,<br />
diving, and desert safaris, and an<br />
excellent escape from European<br />
winters. With a 1,800km-long<br />
coastline, Saudi is home to rolling<br />
desert dunes, cool and lush green<br />
highlands, as well as the pristine<br />
waters of the Red Sea.<br />
Saudi is one of the region’s<br />
emerging cultural, sports, and<br />
entertainment hubs with worldclass<br />
events throughout the year,<br />
including the F1 circuit in Jeddah,<br />
the Diriyah E-Prix, the Red Sea<br />
Film Festival, the MDL Beast<br />
Festival, the Riyadh Season, the<br />
Saudi Cup, the Dakar Rally, and<br />
the Gamers8 gaming and esports<br />
event.<br />
WELCOMING<br />
EVERYONE<br />
Saudi is promoting itself as a<br />
warm and welcoming destination<br />
for everyone, including female<br />
travelers. With the Vision 2030<br />
plan driving transformation, the<br />
destination has a dynamic society<br />
that enables all of its citizens to<br />
achieve their aspirations, and<br />
the empowerment of women is<br />
a major part of that. Saudi is also<br />
a very safe place to visit with a<br />
low crime rate, and was recently<br />
ranked by the World Economic<br />
Forum as the 33rd safest country<br />
in the world.<br />
With connections to over 20<br />
regional and international airports<br />
and an eVisa programme that<br />
includes 63 countries, it is now<br />
easier than ever to visit Saudi<br />
Hall 4.2 / Stands 200, 202 & 205<br />
“GO BEYOND<br />
WHAT YOU THINK”<br />
CAMPAIGN WITH<br />
LIONEL MESSI<br />
Earlier this year, Saudi’s national tourism<br />
brand, "Saudi Welcome To Arabia," kicked<br />
off a global marketing campaign featuring<br />
football legend and Saudi Tourism<br />
Ambassador, Lionel Messi. The “Go Beyond<br />
What You Think” campaign is the Saudi<br />
Tourism Authority’s farthest reaching<br />
campaign to date. Launching across key<br />
target markets in Europe, India, and China,<br />
the campaign is anchored on consumer<br />
insights and celebrates trailblazing Saudi<br />
women including the Women’s National<br />
football team, motorsport athlete Dania<br />
Akeel, DJ Cosmicat, and Rayyanah Barnawi,<br />
the first Saudi woman in space.<br />
“Go Beyond What You Think” invites<br />
audiences to experience the incredible and<br />
vibrant cultural transformation taking place<br />
across Saudi and builds on the sentiment<br />
of the UN Tourism, "Tourism Opens Minds"<br />
Initiative that launched on World Tourism<br />
Day in Riyadh in September 2023. The<br />
campaign also includes an interactive digital<br />
component, where previous visitors to Saudi<br />
and Saudi residents are encouraged to share<br />
positive experiences on social media using<br />
the hashtag #ShareYourSaudi<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 35
I REGION I AFRICA I<br />
ADVERTORIAL<br />
Congo Brazzaville,<br />
a unique experience in<br />
the heart of Africa<br />
Between land, sea and the tumultuous waters of the<br />
Congo River, the Republic of Congo (or Congo Brazzaville)<br />
is presenting ecotourism, community tourism and unique<br />
cultural experiences at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong>.<br />
Africa shines at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin<br />
with expanded showcases<br />
from coast to savannah<br />
At <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin this year, Africa<br />
is occupying Halls 20 and 21,<br />
showcasing all major destinations.<br />
Hall 20 features island nations<br />
like Mauritius, the Seychelles, and<br />
Reunion Island, along with southern<br />
destinations such as South Africa,<br />
Namibia, and Zambia, with Zambia<br />
expanding its presence this year.<br />
Hall 21 sees newcomer São Tomé<br />
and Principe, alongside Ethiopia,<br />
Uganda, and Rwanda, each<br />
enlarging their exhibition spaces<br />
this year. Other top destinations<br />
such as Kenya, Congo and the<br />
Gambia are highlighting their<br />
tourism offerings, from wildlife<br />
and landscapes to cultural<br />
experiences<br />
Halls 20 & 21<br />
The Republic of Congo has<br />
exceptional biodiversity made up of<br />
tropical forests, savanna plains and<br />
the Congo river, home to wild animals<br />
and breathtaking landscapes. The<br />
spectacular Odzala-Kokoua National<br />
Park allows for unforgettable<br />
encounters with lowland gorillas,<br />
elephants and other rare species.<br />
Visitors to the Republic of Congo<br />
can immerse themselves in the daily<br />
life of local communities in villages<br />
renowned for their hospitality,<br />
customs, crafts and festivities.<br />
Lydie Pongault, Minister of Cultural,<br />
Tourism, Art and Leisure industries<br />
states that,<br />
The Republic of Congo<br />
boasts incomparable<br />
natural riches—tropical<br />
forests, protected animal<br />
species, tumultuous rivers<br />
and coastlines—and an<br />
immense cultural heritage<br />
driven by the vitality and<br />
creativity of our people. It's<br />
this unique combination of<br />
tourism and culture that we<br />
and our partners are<br />
presenting at <strong>ITB</strong>."<br />
Visitors to the stand can meet five<br />
leading tourism market players:<br />
Wild Safari Tours provides<br />
services such as tailor-made trips<br />
and private, personalised tours with<br />
English/French guides<br />
Odzala Kokoua National Park is<br />
a Biosphere Reserve and a UNESCO<br />
World Heritage Site as well as one<br />
of Africa's oldest national parks,<br />
home to over 110 different mammal<br />
species, 440 bird species and 1,150<br />
plant species<br />
The Ngabé Tourist Site is a lodge<br />
along the Congo River with 49<br />
bungalows, a restaurant, conference<br />
room, sports hall, two swimming<br />
pools and a children's playground<br />
Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park<br />
is a pristine ecosystem, home<br />
for a wide range of animals from<br />
endangered large mammals to<br />
endemic butterflies<br />
The 5-star Pefaco Hotel<br />
Maya Maya is next to Brazzaville<br />
international airport, offering 158<br />
rooms, 6 restaurants and bars, a<br />
conference centre, a fitness room, a<br />
swimming pool and tennis court<br />
Hall 20 / Stand 306<br />
Africa shows strong<br />
tourism growth in 2023<br />
Africa stands out as the continent<br />
with the fastest tourism growth<br />
in 2023, with international tourist<br />
arrival numbers at 96% of 2019<br />
levels according to UN Tourism,<br />
the highest recovery percentage in<br />
the world. This translated into total<br />
international tourist movements<br />
reaching 66.4 million.<br />
Some African counties even<br />
exceeded their 2019 numbers<br />
by October or November 2023<br />
including Ethiopia (+30%),<br />
Tanzania (+20%) and Morocco<br />
Kenya's <strong>ITB</strong> 2023 stand<br />
(+11%). North Africa as a whole<br />
recorded 26.8 million international<br />
arrivals, up by 4.6% over 2019.<br />
The recovery of the continent<br />
was stimulated by better air<br />
connectivity, in particular on intraregional<br />
routes and to Europe and<br />
the Middle East<br />
66.4 million international<br />
tourism arrivals to Africa in 2023<br />
+30% - Ethiopia showed the<br />
strongest growth, surpassing 2019<br />
figures by 30% in 2023<br />
© Stéphane Lelarge<br />
36 <strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> news.itb.com
I REGION I AFRICA I<br />
Gambia brings a smile<br />
to <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong><br />
Gambia's tagline, "The Smiling Coast of Africa" is<br />
immediately friendly and welcoming. The Gambia Tourism<br />
Board (GTB) is promoting the hospitality of the Gambian<br />
people along with the peace, security and political stability<br />
of the country at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin this year.<br />
Gambia is looking to become an<br />
all-year destination rather than just<br />
a winter one. The Gambia Tourism<br />
Board is working to position the<br />
country as a top destination in Africa<br />
for community tourism: homestays,<br />
culinary experiences, a cruise on<br />
the Gambia river to meet local<br />
populations, going to the market with<br />
them or dressing like them…it's all<br />
part of the development of sustainable<br />
tourism experiences.<br />
Another Gambia highlight is the<br />
"Roots Experience", dedicated to the<br />
history of slavery and inspired by the<br />
novel of the famous American writer<br />
Alex Haley. The circuit looks at several<br />
cultural sites to experience Afro-<br />
American roots such as Fort Bullery<br />
or Slave Island, and there will be a<br />
dedicated Roots Home Festival.<br />
Beyond programmes to improve<br />
the quality of tourism services and<br />
facilities and the training of guides and<br />
hotel staff, the GTB is targeting MICE<br />
tourism as it offers modern conference<br />
facilities, a wide range of hotel options<br />
and many original tours.<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin is an opportunity for<br />
professionals to learn more about<br />
Gambia's journey to becoming a top<br />
tourist destination<br />
Hall 21 / Stand 202<br />
© Gambia Tourism Board<br />
ADVERTORIAL<br />
Strong “Team South Africa”<br />
strives for growth at <strong>ITB</strong><br />
Berlin <strong>2024</strong><br />
South Africa is back at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin this year under the slogan<br />
"Live South Africa - Unforgettable Moments!" The country's<br />
delegation includes 63 tourism products and services,<br />
with 15 small, medium and micro enterprises (SMEs) from<br />
nine provinces, representing South Africa's unique and<br />
culturally diverse tourism offering.<br />
"We are at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong> as 'Team<br />
South Africa', a team that offers a<br />
variety of products and experiences.<br />
We have put the impact of the<br />
Covid-19 pandemic behind us and<br />
are pioneering by ensuring that we<br />
showcase our exceptional tourism<br />
offering and truly enhance South<br />
Africa's brand appeal and inspire<br />
travellers to book and visit South<br />
Africa," says Nombulelo Guliwe,<br />
Acting CEO of South African Tourism.<br />
South Africa is a destination that<br />
offers excellent value for money,<br />
especially for Europeans. Entry<br />
figures to South Africa were on the<br />
rise in 2023 according to the Statistics<br />
South Africa, with a total of 8,483,333<br />
tourists from all over the world, a<br />
48.9 percent increase compared<br />
to 2022, but still 17.1 percent below<br />
pre-pandemic levels. South Africa<br />
recorded 308,807 arrivals from the<br />
DACH region in 2023, an increase of<br />
41.6 per cent from Germany, 48.8 per<br />
cent from Austria and 28.3 per cent<br />
from Switzerland compared to the<br />
previous year.<br />
South Africa will give a "Destination<br />
South Africa Showcase" press<br />
conference today, followed by a<br />
workshop specifically tailored to<br />
South African SMEs to maximise<br />
networking opportunities for<br />
these partners. To further promote<br />
networking opportunities, South<br />
African wines will also be on offer at<br />
the stand<br />
Hall 20 / Stand 201<br />
Großer Stern<br />
Level 4 | VIP-2<br />
SOUTH AFRICA<br />
PRESS CONFERENCE<br />
Today, Tuesday 5 March<br />
03:00pm<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 37
ADVERTORIAL<br />
I SPECIAL FEATURE I TRAVEL TECHNOLOGIES I<br />
“Our success hinges on continuously empowering<br />
our clients to thrive in a competitive market”<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin News spoke with Afra Wang, COO and Co-founder of next-generation flight<br />
ticket seller and aggregator UNIFIFI Group<br />
Having successfully weathered the pandemic, Unififi Group<br />
has carved a niche for itself, unlocking modern service<br />
value with its all-in-one flight booking and fulfillment<br />
services. Afra Wang shares her insights into the group's<br />
unique approach to redefining modern service within the<br />
flight supply chain.<br />
What sets UNIFIFI apart in a market<br />
full of ticket suppliers, aggregators,<br />
and marketplaces?<br />
Even though there are lots of players<br />
in the market, travel merchants still<br />
face more intensified pain points,<br />
especially in shopping and postsales<br />
services, exacerbated by the<br />
rising expectations of digital-savvy<br />
travelers. These challenges stem<br />
from fragmented supplies, different<br />
time zones, and discrepancies in<br />
B2B service standards. UNIFIFI's<br />
integrated service approach<br />
acknowledges the industry's<br />
experience-driven nature, relying on<br />
service transformation. Unififi Cloud<br />
is our way-of-serve, which facilitates<br />
seamless connections between<br />
airlines and merchants, fostering a<br />
harmonious service ecosystem where<br />
customer, airline, and agent success<br />
are interconnected.<br />
Can you provide some specific<br />
examples?<br />
Delivering seamless flight shopping<br />
and after-sales service is easier<br />
said than done. Our hybrid seller<br />
& aggregator capabilities aim to<br />
create extra value benefits for all. For<br />
instance, we collaborate with airline<br />
partners, including those using NDC<br />
or API modern retailing, to facilitate<br />
dynamic pricing and diversify sales<br />
channels. We also continuously<br />
improve our services by addressing<br />
post-sales and pre-departure issues,<br />
empowering merchant customers to<br />
reach us anytime for efficient issue<br />
resolution. For example, we also offer<br />
a robust risk monitoring system to<br />
keep our clients informed about flight<br />
changes and automatically verify ticket<br />
statuses. We currently in development<br />
of new features like insight tools and<br />
frequent flyer management to further<br />
OUR SUCCESS<br />
HINGES ON<br />
CONTINUOUSLY<br />
EMPOWERING OUR<br />
CLIENTS TO THRIVE<br />
IN A COMPETITIVE<br />
MARKET.<br />
empower travel businesses in serving<br />
their end customers effectively.<br />
What are some of the key challenges<br />
for the group and how does Unififi<br />
measure its success?<br />
Travel merchants face the challenge<br />
of adapting to new opportunities<br />
quickly and effectively, particularly<br />
as traveler demands become more<br />
diverse and advanced due to<br />
digitalization. Passengers expect<br />
always-on and transparent omnichannel<br />
services, while airlines are<br />
evolving their product portfolios<br />
and retailing capabilities. In 2023,<br />
our company experienced the most<br />
rapid growth, particularly in our<br />
API-driven OTAs serving digital<br />
native travelers and specialized<br />
travel agencies handling complex<br />
itineraries. Our success relies on<br />
empowering our clients to thrive in<br />
their competitive markets.<br />
What will Unififi's focus be in <strong>2024</strong>?<br />
In 2023, we achieved 250% yearon-year<br />
segment growth, nearly<br />
tripling our pre-pandemic records.<br />
As an independent company, we<br />
aim to delve deeper and tirelessly<br />
address clients' genuine challenges.<br />
We envision ourselves as modern<br />
"agents" with global scale and hybrid<br />
capabilities. Our goal is to build<br />
the best product experience for the<br />
travel industry and collaborate with<br />
existing and new travel merchants<br />
seeking enhanced service value to<br />
drive flight business growth<br />
Hall 5.1 / Stand 135<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 39
ADVERTORIAL<br />
I SPECIAL FEATURE I TRAVEL TECHNOLOGIES I<br />
“Find, Book, Grow”:<br />
Cendyn’s commitment to hoteliers<br />
For Michael Bennett, President & CMO of Cendyn, the travel industry is<br />
rightfully shifting to a more personalised way of using technology, reflecting the<br />
needs and demands of consumers<br />
In an exclusive interview with <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin News,<br />
Michael Bennett addressed how Cendyn’s solutions<br />
are contributing to the travel industry’s digital<br />
transformation and outlined what direction the<br />
company is moving towards in the future.<br />
How are Cendyn’s solutions<br />
contributing to the travel<br />
industry’s digital transformation?<br />
It’s important that every guest<br />
interaction provides an opportunity<br />
to nurture relationships as well<br />
as maximise profit. Every search<br />
and booking creates momentum,<br />
driving growth but also turning<br />
hotels into a place of deeper<br />
human connection. Our integrated<br />
technology underpins these<br />
relationships, providing sustained<br />
growth and success for our<br />
clients. .<br />
What do you believe are the key<br />
trends set to shape the travel<br />
technology landscape?<br />
There’s a necessity to respond to<br />
the changing demands of both<br />
consumers and hotels. Direct<br />
bookings are a key trend—the<br />
pandemic reset how consumers<br />
engage with hotels as travellers<br />
prioritised human engagement<br />
and reliable, first-party information.<br />
Since then, inflation has led many<br />
consumers back to third-party<br />
sites in search of better deals, with<br />
direct bookings falling from a peak<br />
of 67% to 56%, according to Skift<br />
Research’s Global Hotel Outlook.<br />
At Cendyn, we help hoteliers take<br />
control of their direct booking<br />
channel, finding the right customer<br />
who will book via this channel<br />
and growing the "right" type of<br />
business. Through our solutions,<br />
hotels strengthen their brand,<br />
which is a great way to secure<br />
direct customers, and tap into the<br />
wider societal trend of building a<br />
sense of place and community.<br />
What’s next for Cendyn, and how<br />
does your new branding support<br />
your future plans?<br />
We’ve just launched our Revenue<br />
Growth package — it's the<br />
ultimate solution for hoteliers<br />
to unlock revenue potential in<br />
today's digital economy. Using<br />
strategic metasearch, paid search,<br />
and CRM, the Revenue Growth<br />
package creates prominent<br />
Google rankings, working with a<br />
seamless advertising strategy that<br />
strikes a balance. By utilising AI,<br />
we source even more direct traffic<br />
and conversions. Hotels can then<br />
allocate marketing spending where<br />
it makes the most difference,<br />
converting profitable revenue.<br />
But it’s more than direct bookings!<br />
For our 32,000 global customers,<br />
we are continuing to build strategic<br />
partnerships and integrations to<br />
further strengthen our digital offer.<br />
Our Revenue Growth Package<br />
also leverages sophisticated<br />
CRM targeting capabilities for<br />
personalised multi-channel<br />
marketing such as birthday email<br />
off ers, targeted social media ads,<br />
and WhatsApp campaigns. We<br />
also use data to build effective<br />
lookalike audiences.<br />
C o n t i n u o u s<br />
momentum is key—a<br />
strong digital, web,<br />
and CRM strategy<br />
should allow hoteliers<br />
to find more guests<br />
that book directly and<br />
grow revenue —and<br />
our solutions help<br />
hotels achieve that<br />
trinity of Find, Book,<br />
and Grow<br />
Michael Bennett<br />
President & CMO, Cendyn<br />
THROUGH OUR SOLUTIONS<br />
AND SERVICES, HOTELS<br />
STRENGTHEN THEIR BRAND<br />
AND TAP INTO THE WIDER<br />
SOCIETAL TREND OF BUILDING<br />
A SENSE OF PLACE AND<br />
COMMUNITY.<br />
CENDYN<br />
UNVEILS<br />
ITS NEW<br />
LOOK<br />
AT <strong>ITB</strong><br />
<strong>BERLIN</strong><br />
Michael Bennett, President<br />
& CMO of Cendyn, was<br />
enthusiastic about the brand's<br />
new look, and confident<br />
that <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin was the right<br />
place to launch it: “We drive<br />
success for our hotel partners<br />
– whether that be finding the<br />
ideal guest, or connecting<br />
(and reconnecting!) with them<br />
through meaningful digital<br />
experiences. Relaunching<br />
our brand at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin made<br />
perfect sense to us. It’s the<br />
largest travel trade show in the<br />
world and draws significant<br />
attendance from our valued<br />
hotel customers and industry<br />
partners.<br />
For Bennett, this rebrand<br />
represents a more modern<br />
identity: "We’ve been in<br />
business over 26 years and<br />
we’ve evolved massively.<br />
The new logo captures the<br />
momentum and growth<br />
which hotels can achieve<br />
through our extensive range<br />
of products and services."<br />
The new rebrand and slogan<br />
“Find, Book, Grow" embodies<br />
the company's partnership<br />
Hall 8.1 / Stand 111<br />
with hotels, underlying<br />
the importance of every<br />
hotel visitor: "Every guest<br />
interaction is turned into a<br />
growth opportunity, fostering<br />
loyalty. We create a cycle of<br />
momentum and compound<br />
growth, helping hotels<br />
drive revenue, maximise<br />
profitability, and forge lasting<br />
success”<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 41
I SPECIAL FEATURE I TRAVEL TECHNOLOGIES I<br />
ADVERTORIAL<br />
Exely empowers hoteliers to<br />
drive direct revenue with IT<br />
solutions and exceptional<br />
customer care<br />
At its first <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin, Exely is introducing the Hotel Sales<br />
Suite and a distinctive partnership approach. The company<br />
is promoting innovative software that is claimed to free<br />
hoteliers from concerns and propels businesses to success.<br />
Exely champions direct sales,<br />
guaranteeing lower commissions,<br />
enhanced brand awareness, and<br />
increased returns.<br />
At the Exely stand, the team will<br />
present online hotel sales, revenue<br />
management, and property<br />
management software. The company<br />
states that its mission is to be a quality<br />
IT supplier that can free businesses<br />
from concerns and help them become<br />
high-margin. .<br />
Exely aims to help hoteliers adopt<br />
direct sales and reach their revenue<br />
potential, as the whole team believes<br />
direct sales are the key to high<br />
booking margins and average totals.<br />
By opting for direct sales with the<br />
seamless Exely Booking Engine<br />
on a hotel brand website, hotel<br />
managers set their property for lower<br />
commissions, better brand awareness,<br />
higher average totals, and more return<br />
guests.<br />
E xely<br />
states that its<br />
Booking Engine users<br />
increase direct sales by up to<br />
30%. Additionally, by upselling extra<br />
services in Booking Engine, hoteliers<br />
increase their average totals by 10%,<br />
on average<br />
The company team prides itself<br />
in taking care of clients’ sales<br />
performances. After Exely Booking<br />
Engine is set up a hotelier's website,<br />
Customer Support and Customer<br />
Success managers complete a<br />
website audit and provide a list of<br />
recommendations on how to make<br />
the website more user-friendly and<br />
convert more.<br />
Each client of Exely has a Customer<br />
Success manager who regularly<br />
assesses the performance of online<br />
hotel sales in order to provide<br />
expert advice and share best market<br />
practices<br />
Hall 7.1c / Stand 117<br />
42 <strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> news.itb.com
I SPECIAL FEATURE I TRAVEL TECHNOLOGIES I<br />
ADVERTORIAL<br />
CodeGen:<br />
Decades of<br />
intelligent<br />
reservations<br />
CodeGen has been providing intelligent<br />
reservation, retailing, and fulfilment platforms<br />
for over 23 years. Its flagship product,<br />
TravelBox, is used by some of the world’s<br />
biggest travel brands to increase revenue and<br />
improve operational efficiencies.<br />
CodeGen is a specialist in artificial intelligence,<br />
and continues to invest in research and<br />
development, offering its clients a competitive<br />
edge in a rapidly evolving market.<br />
Visitors to <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin can stop by CodeGen' at<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin's stand for a demonstration of the<br />
company's latest innovations<br />
Hall 5.1 / Stand 136<br />
Cover Genius and Vueling partner<br />
up for optimal travel protection<br />
In January, Cover Genius and Vueling, Spain’s<br />
leading low-cost airline, launched an exclusive<br />
travel protection partnership targeting potentially<br />
30 million travellers.<br />
This partnership leverages<br />
Cover Genius’ existing global<br />
technology to help the Spanish<br />
low-cost carrier scale across<br />
countries. Vueling set ambitious<br />
plans to expand its digital<br />
offerings through its website<br />
and mobile app as part of its<br />
Vueling Transform program.<br />
Cover Genius’ global distribution<br />
platform solution XCover<br />
embeds a comprehensive travel<br />
solution, from the initial sale<br />
through to administration to<br />
claim payment, directly within<br />
the online customer journey.<br />
AI and NLP technology help<br />
customise the online experience<br />
for travellers in real-time,<br />
allowing Vueling to adapt its<br />
offers accordingly.<br />
The comprehensive travel<br />
protection can cover travellers<br />
across various events such as<br />
medical emergencies, cutting<br />
journeys short or stolen baggage.<br />
The medical protection covers<br />
policyholders for Covid-19 or<br />
other illnesses or injuries while<br />
travelling internationally. Flights<br />
and accommodations can<br />
also be covered in case of trip<br />
cancellations. Unlike traditional<br />
protection solutions, trip<br />
cancellation protection begins<br />
immediately from the date of<br />
purchase and includes preexisting<br />
medical conditions and<br />
Covid-19 related cancellations.<br />
This announcement aligns with<br />
findings from a global travel<br />
insurance survey, commissioned<br />
by Cover Genius, which showed<br />
that customers were most<br />
satisfied when they purchased<br />
travel protection directly from<br />
their travel provider or airline.<br />
69% of EMEA travellers prefered<br />
that solution and over 52% of<br />
respondents also claimed that<br />
they would want to receive<br />
travel coverage from this source<br />
due to ease and convenience<br />
Hall 5.1 / Stand 114<br />
© pixabay<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 43
ADVERTORIAL<br />
I SPECIAL FEATURE I TRAVEL TECHNOLOGIES I<br />
Schubert Lou<br />
Chief Operating Officer,<br />
Trip.com<br />
“Innovation and agility are at the core<br />
of Trip.com's approach”<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin News sat down with Trip.com's Chief Operating Officer Schubert Lou<br />
to discuss how the company is pioneering solutions for the global traveller<br />
Ahead of his keynote for the Technology Tours and<br />
Activities Track at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin Convention, Schubert Lou<br />
outlined how Trip.com, a brand of Trip.com Group, is<br />
changing the travel experience with cutting-edge AI while<br />
catering to global travel preferences with local offerings.<br />
The landscape of international<br />
travel has undergone significant<br />
changes post-pandemic. What<br />
are some of the emerging trends<br />
in consumer behaviour that have<br />
impacted international travel?<br />
In today's travel landscape, the<br />
desires of travellers extend beyond<br />
mere sightseeing. They yearn for<br />
authentic and immersive experiences,<br />
including seeking out high-quality<br />
wellness experiences and embracing<br />
event and entertainment tourism<br />
as integral components of their<br />
personalised itineraries. Moreover,<br />
there is a growing consciousness<br />
towards sustainable tourism, where<br />
travellers prioritise destinations<br />
that demonstrate environmental<br />
responsibility.<br />
These shifting preferences among<br />
consumers present remarkable<br />
opportunities for destinations to<br />
diversify their offerings. By catering to<br />
these evolving demands, destinations<br />
can attract a broader audience<br />
and position themselves as go-to<br />
destinations for experiential and<br />
sustainable travel.<br />
What are your strategies for<br />
integrating the diverse preferences<br />
of international travellers with local<br />
tours and attractions?<br />
Innovation and agility are at the core<br />
of Trip.com's approach. We leverage<br />
technology to observe and analyse<br />
global trends, and it enables us<br />
to respond promptly to changing<br />
consumer preferences. Through<br />
close collaboration with our global<br />
partners, we customise products<br />
and experiences in local destinations<br />
to cater to diverse international<br />
travellers.<br />
Destinations should strive to offer<br />
a comprehensive and enriching<br />
travel experience by tapping into<br />
the emerging preferences for event<br />
tourism and sustainable travel and<br />
utilising effective channels.<br />
Technology bridges the desires of<br />
global travellers with the unique<br />
offerings of destinations. It allows for<br />
effective promotion of destinations’<br />
cultures and uniqueness, and<br />
empowers our community to make<br />
informed decisions, enhancing their<br />
event-driven travel experiences.<br />
As Trip.com expands its global<br />
footprint, how do you envision the<br />
future of travel and how is Trip.com<br />
preparing for these future trends?<br />
Our vision is to make Trip.com<br />
synonymous with personalised,<br />
technology-driven travel, and<br />
facilitate cultural and people-topeople<br />
exchanges with technology.<br />
Our commitment to innovation and<br />
understanding the unique needs of<br />
each traveller remains unwavering.<br />
We're excited to introduce more<br />
travellers to our platform, showing<br />
them the depth of personalisation<br />
and care we bring to their journeys.<br />
With the power of technology, we are<br />
continually pushing the boundaries<br />
of travel, ensuring that every journey<br />
with Trip.com is unparalleled and<br />
unforgettable. We believe the beauty<br />
of travel is that it takes people far<br />
away, yet brings people closer<br />
together<br />
Hall 9 / Stand 108<br />
THE UNIQUE<br />
PREFERENCES<br />
OF ASIAN<br />
TOURISTS<br />
As a part of <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin's travel<br />
technology programme on the<br />
eTravel Stage in Hall 6.1, Schubert<br />
Lou will be on hand at the<br />
Technology Tours and Activities<br />
Track on Wednesday, March 6<br />
to deliver the session's keynote<br />
address. With Trip.com's focus<br />
on tailoring travel to a broad,<br />
international audience, he will<br />
discuss the particular preferences<br />
of Asian tourists and how<br />
destinations can give full play to<br />
their preferences<br />
HOW TO<br />
ACCOMMODATE THE<br />
GLOBAL TRAVELLER<br />
Wednesday 6 March<br />
10:35a.m. - 11:00a.m<br />
eTravel Stage<br />
Hall 6.1<br />
Schubert Lou, COO at Trip.com<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 45
I SPECIAL FEATURE I TRAVEL TECHNOLOGIES I<br />
“Staying connected is crucial<br />
for modern travellers”<br />
Manet Mobile Solutions is an Italian company<br />
connecting travellers around the world. Luca<br />
Liparulo, COO & Sales Director, discusses the<br />
future of eSIM technology with <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin News.<br />
connections by 2025,<br />
representing a near-universal<br />
adoption rate. Nearly 80% of all<br />
smartphones shipped in 2025<br />
will be eSIM-capable.<br />
ISO Travel Solutions<br />
brings a strong innovation<br />
package to <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong><br />
What are the largest hurdles<br />
travellers face when it comes<br />
to mobile connectivity?<br />
Staying connected is crucial<br />
for modern travellers. But<br />
traditional solutions often come<br />
with frustrations. Scrambling<br />
for local SIM cards upon arrival,<br />
language barriers adding<br />
confusion, and the constant<br />
worry of hidden roaming<br />
charges.<br />
How does eSIM technology<br />
offer a more convenient<br />
solution for travellers ?<br />
This is where eSIM steps<br />
in, a true game-changer for<br />
ISO Travel Solutions GmbH is presenting the latest<br />
developments of its tailor-made reservation systems and<br />
e-commerce solutions for tour operators and service<br />
providers at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong>.<br />
FASTSEARCH & IBE:<br />
SPEED & PRECISION<br />
COMBINED<br />
FastSearch is a platform-independent<br />
technology to search and calculate<br />
travel prices. Based on AI, FastSearch<br />
quickly and accurately calculates<br />
suitable offers in response to individual<br />
search queries. It ensures that<br />
availability and price-checked offers,<br />
including children's and group prices,<br />
are displayed within milliseconds.<br />
FastSearch is presented during <strong>ITB</strong><br />
with a new Internet Booking Engine.<br />
ATLANTIC RESERVATION<br />
SYSTEM – GO TO MACH4<br />
DYNAMIC PACKAGING<br />
Dynamic Packaging System Atlantic<br />
is aimed at airlines, hotel chains and<br />
tour operators. Based on a modern<br />
MACH architecture (microservices,<br />
API-first, cloud native, headless), it is<br />
characterised by its flexibility, focus<br />
on external interfaces and ease of<br />
use. Atlantic is conceptually designed<br />
as an Offer & Order Management<br />
System to enable a dynamic creation<br />
of personalised offers.<br />
travellers. The idea is to get<br />
connectivity before a trip,<br />
simply by downloading eSIM<br />
profiles directly to a device.<br />
eSIM allows users to choose<br />
data plans tailored to a specific<br />
budget and provides complete<br />
flexibility without the hassle of<br />
physical SIM cards.<br />
What could be the impact of<br />
eSIM technology in the next<br />
3-5 years?<br />
A recent study by GSMA<br />
Intelligence found that eSIMcompatible<br />
devices grew by<br />
a staggering 67% in 2023,<br />
reaching over 2 billion units<br />
globally. Mobilise Global<br />
forecasts this number to<br />
reach a whopping 5 billion<br />
BLOCKCHAIN, AI & NIS2<br />
As a supporter of the Camino<br />
Blockchain, an innovative checkin<br />
demo for car rental companies is<br />
being presented. With this application,<br />
the vehicle pick-up process is<br />
simplified and accelerated using smart<br />
contracts and NFTs. ISO also shares<br />
its experience with its "From Booking<br />
to Boarding" solution for NFT tickets,<br />
check-in and baggage tracking.<br />
How can travel providers<br />
leverage on Manet Travel's<br />
offer ?<br />
For travel operators, it<br />
brings new revenue streams<br />
through data plan sales and<br />
partnerships; competitive<br />
differentiation thanks to<br />
seamless eSIM connectivity;<br />
operational efficiency as Manet<br />
Travel simplifies connectivity<br />
management with remote<br />
provisioning and centralised<br />
dashboards. And last but not<br />
least brand loyalty set on<br />
stronger relationships with<br />
customers<br />
Hall 6.1 / Stand 310<br />
ISO focuses on process optimisation<br />
with its multi-functional AI platform<br />
which enables the efficient creation<br />
of customer-specific classifiers and<br />
useful "what-if simulations" such as<br />
the likelihood of cancellations to<br />
optimise capacity utilisation and<br />
campaign planning. In addition, cyber<br />
security and resilience is part of ISO<br />
Travel software development<br />
Hall 5.1 / Stand 133<br />
© Priscilla du Preez - unsplash<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 47
I SPECIAL FEATURE I CYCLING TOURISM I<br />
Land of rivers: Cycling in Lower Austria<br />
Lower Austria is back at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong> promoting itself as<br />
a top-level cycling destination. The Austrian region's rivers<br />
shape a diverse natural and cultural landscape, which can<br />
be explored on a developed network of bicycle paths. With<br />
no notable gradients, they are ideal for pleasure cyclists<br />
and families.<br />
TRAISENTAL BICYCLE<br />
TRAIL<br />
From the hills south of the Danube<br />
to the mountains of the Mostviertel<br />
Alps, the 111-kilometre-long family<br />
and pilgrim Traisental bicycle path<br />
leads through areas full of rivers<br />
perfect for skipping stones between<br />
Herzogenburg and Traismauer. Not far<br />
from the regional capital St. Pölten, the<br />
Viehofen lakes with their meadows<br />
open to picnics are an alternative to<br />
open-air swimming pools.<br />
YBBSTAL CYCLE PATH<br />
Branching off directly from the<br />
Danube, the Ybbstal cycling path leads<br />
107 kilometres south, from Waidhofen<br />
an der Ybbs along a former railway line<br />
to Lunz am See. The Ybbs meanders<br />
as a green thread in Mostviertel's<br />
landscape. Bikers should still plan<br />
a break on warm days at one of the<br />
bathing spots such as the enchanting<br />
natural swimming pool in Kematen or<br />
in the nostalgic Hollenstein river pool,<br />
directly on the Ybbs.<br />
KAMP-THAYA-MARCH<br />
CYCLE TOUR<br />
Lower Austria's longest cycle route<br />
of 420-km offers is great for sporty<br />
or pleasure cyclists. Along the rivers<br />
Kamp, Thaya and March and on<br />
quiet back roads, it goes through the<br />
romantic Weinviertel, the mystical<br />
Waldviertel and the floodplain<br />
landscape of the March. The historic<br />
wine town of Krems, the picturesque<br />
river landscape of the Kamptal with<br />
its picturesque wine villages or the<br />
ancient Weinviertel cellar alleys<br />
are highlights of the route, as is the<br />
fjord-like Ottenstein reservoir with its<br />
abundance of fish. An opportunity to<br />
enjoy fishing or try fish in a nearby<br />
restaurant!<br />
hub 27 / Stand 106<br />
© Giampaolo Mastro - pixabay<br />
Exploring the natural<br />
wonders of the Serra<br />
de Tramuntana on two<br />
wheels<br />
Visitors to Mallorca's stand at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin this year will<br />
discover that the island is an ideal destination for cycling<br />
tourism, thanks to the great variety of landscapes and<br />
an extensive network of cycling itineraries. The Serra<br />
de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a<br />
particularly unique perspective.<br />
© Cycling photography<br />
Mallorca stands out as a destination<br />
for cycling tourism, offering visitors<br />
the opportunity to enjoy sporting<br />
events such as the Mallorca 312 race<br />
or the Mallorca Cycling Challenge.<br />
In addition, the island has more than<br />
2,000 kilometres of roads and paths<br />
specially enabled for cycling. Some of<br />
these route options include the climb<br />
to Puig Major, a visit to Valldemossa<br />
and the challenging path to Sa<br />
Calobra, among others.<br />
CLIMB TO THE TOP OF<br />
PUIG MAJOR<br />
Puig Major is the highest point on the<br />
island, with an altitude of 1,436 metres,<br />
which makes this route one of the<br />
most attractive and popular to travel<br />
by bicycle.<br />
VISIT THE PICTURESQUE<br />
TOWN OF VALLDEMOSSA<br />
Another of the best-known routes is<br />
the one that connects the capital of<br />
Palma with the town of Valldemossa,<br />
located at the foot of the Serra de<br />
Tramuntana. Due to its position, it has<br />
a mainly flat terrain.<br />
TEST YOURSELF ON THE<br />
ASCENT TO SA CALOBRA<br />
This route is one of the most popular<br />
worldwide, extending 70 kilometres<br />
in length with a positive gradient of<br />
2,000 metres<br />
Hall 2.1 / Stand 103b<br />
Cyclists can start in the town of Sóller,<br />
where the itinerary runs through its<br />
well-known port, until it enters the<br />
mountainous landscape. Due to its<br />
altitude, it is quite a challenge, but it<br />
offers spectacular views throughout<br />
the journey.<br />
48 <strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> news.itb.com
ADVERTORIAL<br />
I SPECIAL FEATURE I CYCLING TOURISM I<br />
Italian cycling tourism in the<br />
spotlight at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong><br />
At <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong>, several Italian regions are promoting their cycling<br />
trails to the trade as the country increases investment in this sector.<br />
Back in 2022, as part of Italy's National Plan of Recovery and Resilience,<br />
the country announced it would invest €400 million up until 2026 to<br />
construct an additional 1,235 km of cycling paths and another €200<br />
million for 565 km of dedicated bicycle lanes in cities.<br />
THE MARCHE OUTDOOR<br />
The Marche region is emphasising<br />
sustainability, the outdoors and slow tourism at<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong>, and its panoramic cycle paths<br />
provide authentic experiences. The “Marche<br />
Outdoor” project is part of this concept with<br />
24 cycling routes covering 2,000<br />
km across 130 municipalities, from<br />
the sea to the mountains, passing<br />
through lakes, gorges, waterfalls,<br />
hermitages and caves.<br />
The Marche Outdoor project aims<br />
at promoting sustainable local<br />
economy, immersing tourists in the<br />
beauty of the region for every type<br />
of cyclist. Bike support services<br />
Hall 1.2 / Stands 107 – 107 A – 107 B – 107 C<br />
are available including a dedicated GPS.<br />
Secondary roads are also promoted by a<br />
cycle tourism itinerary called "The path of the<br />
abbeys", combining sport, nature and culture<br />
EMILIA-ROMAGNA:<br />
CYCLING WITH THE TOUR<br />
DE FRANCE AND HISTORIC<br />
DUCHIES IN <strong>2024</strong><br />
Recognised as a top cycling destination, Emilia-Romagna<br />
will also host for the first time in <strong>2024</strong> the Tour de France<br />
Grand Départ along the Wellness Valley and Sports Valley.<br />
Cyclists will pass through key destinations including<br />
Bologna, Rimini, Cesenatico, and Piacenza.<br />
Emilia Romagna also boasts many different routes for<br />
travellers. The Sentiero dei Ducati (the Duchies Trail) is the<br />
latest addition to Emilia- Romagna’s network of ancient<br />
pilgrimage routes, covering historic regions once ruled by<br />
a Duke or Duchess. The 90-km trail for mountain bikers<br />
goes along spectacular corners of the northern Apennines,<br />
crossing vineyards, castles, ancient churches and forests<br />
© Mario Lorca<br />
PIEMONTE:<br />
ALL ROADS LEAD TO ART AND NATURE<br />
Authentic Piemonte is the perfect place for<br />
slow and sustainable tourism, including<br />
breathtaking alpine experiences on 20,000 km<br />
of cycling and trekking trails in 77 protected<br />
areas. Many pass through the city of Torino<br />
and UNESCO sites such as the 7 Sacred<br />
Mounts and the Vineyards Landscape of<br />
Langhe Roero Monferrato, the art cities of<br />
Biella, Novara, Vercelli and Cuneo as well as<br />
Lake Orta and Lake Maggiore with view of the<br />
scenic Borromean Islands.<br />
The network of the Historic Mountain Roads<br />
has 16 itineraries suitable for all types of<br />
cyclists. Home of the Italian cycling, Piedmont<br />
will host in <strong>2024</strong> for the first time the Tour de<br />
France, through the provinces of Alessandria,<br />
Asti, Cuneo and Torino, with arrival of the<br />
Grande Boucle on July 1st<br />
TUSCANY: A SUSTAINABLE<br />
DESTINATION ATTENTIVE<br />
TO CYCLISTS<br />
Tuscany is presenting itself at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin as a reference<br />
in sustainable tourism. It is the first region in Italy to<br />
have created the Atlas of Cycling Tourism Itineraries<br />
and the Atlas of Walking Paths, and it boasts over 6,500<br />
accommodation facilities committed to making visitors'<br />
stays more sustainable. Visitors have access to over<br />
1,400 km of walking paths divided into 8 routes along<br />
ancient historical roads, merchant routes, religious paths,<br />
itineraries discovering unique artistic and architectural<br />
landmarks, UNESCO sites, religious testimonies, and<br />
natural parks. Cycling in Tuscany offers the opportunity to<br />
discover among others Grosseto, <strong>2024</strong> European Capital<br />
and Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism<br />
Hall 1.2 / Stands 107 – 107 A – 107 B – 107 C<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 49
I SPECIAL FEATURE I TRANSPORT I<br />
ADVERTORIAL<br />
Airports of Thailand<br />
upgrades facilities for<br />
increased traveller comfort<br />
With passenger traffic increasing at all six major<br />
Thai airports run by Airports of Thailand PCL, at<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong> the company is presenting its latest<br />
projects set to smoothen and simplify passenger<br />
movements.<br />
As an airport operator, Airports<br />
of Thailand PCL (AOT) operates<br />
6 major air facilities in Thailand:<br />
Bangkok Suvarnabhumi and Don<br />
Mueang International, Chiang Mai<br />
International, Chiang Rai Mae Fah<br />
Luang, Hat Yai International and<br />
Phuket International. Last year,<br />
106 million passengers used 134<br />
scheduled airlines connecting 241<br />
destinations with 667,000 flights.<br />
Various development projects are<br />
in the planning to accommodate<br />
future air traffic volumes. Bangkok<br />
Suvarnabhumi Airport, Thailand<br />
main hub, has already seen the<br />
opening of its Satellite Building<br />
(SAT-1) at the end of 2023 with an<br />
automated people mover system<br />
connecting the facility to the main<br />
terminal. It enables Suvarnabhumi<br />
Airport to accommodate 60<br />
million passengers instead of the<br />
previous 45 million. On July <strong>2024</strong>,<br />
a third runway will be operational<br />
increasing capacity from 68 to 94<br />
flights per hour.<br />
Technology and innovation<br />
regarding the Common Use<br />
Passenger Processing System<br />
(CUPPS) are also being<br />
introduced for the convenience of<br />
passengers. These includes the<br />
option of self-service check-in, a<br />
common use bag drop and selfboarding<br />
gates. These systems<br />
enhance the efficiency and speed<br />
of passenger services, reducing<br />
waiting times and congestion.<br />
Furthermore, AOT in collaboration<br />
with airlines is testing out a<br />
new “Biometric Identification<br />
System” using facial recognition<br />
technology. This system will<br />
ensure the accuracy of passenger<br />
verification processes and reduce<br />
queuing time. It should be fully<br />
operational by mid-<strong>2024</strong>.<br />
In parallel, AOT is developing its<br />
SAWASDEE application where<br />
passengers can access real-time<br />
flight information, flight status,<br />
receive smart notification, check<br />
their luggage status, reserve<br />
a parking space and navigate<br />
through passengers facilities<br />
Hall 26 / Stand 218a<br />
Police General<br />
Visanu<br />
Prasattongosoth<br />
Chairman of Airports<br />
of Thailand Public Company<br />
Limited<br />
SAT-1 Terminal<br />
Suvarnabhumi Airport<br />
Departure Hall<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 51
I SPECIAL FEATURE I TRANSPORT I<br />
© Mohammad Saifullah -Unsplash<br />
Finnair strengthens its network to Nordic<br />
holiday destinations for summer <strong>2024</strong><br />
Finland's national carrier Finnair is adding flights to<br />
some popular Nordic holiday destinations for the<br />
peak summer season this year between the end of<br />
June and August.<br />
The carrier will restore flights to<br />
this year's European Capital of<br />
Culture Bodø, above the Arctic<br />
Circle in Northern Norway, with<br />
five weekly frequencies between<br />
17 June and 02 August. Further in<br />
Norway, Finnair will add flights<br />
to Trondheim with 10 weekly<br />
services from June to the end of<br />
August. In Sweden, the carrier<br />
flies 5 times a week to Visby<br />
in Gotland, from end of June to<br />
early August.<br />
Finnair is also adding flights to<br />
Kuusamo, Ivalo and Kittilä in<br />
Northern Finland, as the Finnish<br />
Lapland increasingly attracts<br />
holiday travellers during the<br />
summer season.<br />
On March 31, <strong>2024</strong>, Finnair will<br />
start a year-round service to Tartu<br />
in Southern Estonia with two<br />
daily flights six days a week. The<br />
flights are supported by the Tartu<br />
City Government, especially as<br />
the city is also Europeab Capital<br />
of Culture <strong>2024</strong>.<br />
In another development, Finnair<br />
introduced on 27 February <strong>2024</strong><br />
a new ticket type for business<br />
travellers. The PrioFlex, ticket<br />
is for corporate customers,<br />
and is similar to a Flex ticket<br />
type in Economy and Premium<br />
Economy but includes priority<br />
check-in, security, and boarding<br />
at airports where available. It<br />
is automatically attributed to<br />
corporate customers with a valid<br />
corporate agreement<br />
Hall 18 / Stand 400e<br />
Emirates makes a strong return<br />
to <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong><br />
Emirates is taking advantage of its return to <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin<br />
in <strong>2024</strong> to showcase its latest signature products to<br />
visitors at the show.<br />
including onboard items made of<br />
responsibly-sourced materials<br />
Hall 2.2 / Stand 101<br />
At <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong>, Emirates<br />
is reaffirming its commitment<br />
to the European travel trade.<br />
The airline's European network<br />
spans 39 destinations in 22<br />
countries, with an additional 403<br />
points served through various<br />
partnerships.<br />
Airbus A380 Onboard Lounge<br />
and First Class Shower Spa.<br />
Finally the carrier is highlighting<br />
its latest sustainability initiatives,<br />
On the stand, Emirates is<br />
displaying its highly popular<br />
Premium Economy seat in<br />
Germany for the first time, as<br />
well as its Boeing 777-300ER<br />
First Class private suite, the<br />
newest generation of its B777<br />
Business Class seat and the<br />
52 <strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> news.itb.com
ADVERTORIAL<br />
I SPECIAL FEATURE I TRANSPORT I<br />
SIXT: The power of premium mobility<br />
at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong><br />
Embracing the motto "Welcome to the World of SIXT”, the premium mobility<br />
provider is showcasing its extensive offers and services at <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin <strong>2024</strong><br />
SIXT is one of the leading providers of premium mobility<br />
services worldwide. Renting with SIXT, customers benefit<br />
from premium rental cars at over 2,000 branches in over<br />
100 countries (including franchises). The company is based<br />
in Pullach near Munich (Bavaria, Germany).<br />
With products including SIXT rent,<br />
SIXT share, SIXT ride and SIXT+<br />
on the mobility platform ONE, SIXT<br />
offers a uniquely integrated premium<br />
mobility service across the fields<br />
of vehicle and commercial vehicle<br />
rentals, car sharing, ride hailing and<br />
car subscriptions.<br />
MOBILE CHECK-IN<br />
ACCELERATES CAR<br />
RENTAL PICK-UP<br />
At the main SIXT booth (Hall 9 /<br />
Stand 121), visitors can delve into<br />
digital innovations like Mobile Checkin,<br />
which optimises and accelerates<br />
the car rental pick-up process,<br />
significantly reduces waiting times,<br />
and underscores SIXT's commitment<br />
to a premium experience along the<br />
entire customer journey.<br />
SIXT is also giving visitors to <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin<br />
insights into other parts of its mobility<br />
ecosystem. For example, with SIXT<br />
ride, the SIXT App provides access to<br />
a range of premium chauffeur and ride<br />
hailing services tailored for business<br />
traveler and leisure needs.<br />
SIXT FOCUSES<br />
ON GROWTH AND<br />
EXPANSION<br />
At the SIXT booth, visitors can also<br />
receive insights into SIXT's growth<br />
ambitions, especially in the USA and<br />
through the further expansion of its<br />
global franchise network.<br />
Beyond the main booth and in<br />
collaboration with the German<br />
National Tourist Board (GNTB), in<br />
hub 27 SIXT is demonstrating how<br />
its offerings are designed to make<br />
mobility in Germany as pleasant as<br />
possible.<br />
Furthermore, SIXT is proud to be<br />
part of the "Home of Business Travel"<br />
presented by <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin and the<br />
German Business Travel Association<br />
(VDR) in Hall 8.2.<br />
Last but not least, SIXT expert Markus<br />
Seitner, Director Sales Marketing &<br />
Product Enablement Corporate Sales,<br />
will speak on 6 March on the <strong>ITB</strong><br />
“Business Travel Track” Green Stage<br />
in Hall 3.1 about how digital processes<br />
elevate quality and customer<br />
excitement<br />
Hall 9 / Stand 121<br />
Hall 8.2 / Stand 206<br />
hub 27 / Stand 201<br />
FROM MYSTERY TO MASTERY:<br />
A GUIDE ON HOW DIGITAL<br />
PROCESSES ELEVATE QUALITY<br />
AND CUSTOMER EXCITEMENT<br />
Markus Seitner, Director Sales<br />
Marketing & Product Enablement<br />
Corporate Sales at SIXT<br />
Wednesday 6 March<br />
12:00p.m. - 12:30p.m.<br />
Business Travel Track<br />
Green Stage<br />
Hall 3.1<br />
<strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> 53
© Emilio Del Prado<br />
WHERE<br />
TO GO IN<br />
<strong>BERLIN</strong><br />
ADVERTORIAL<br />
Brechts Steakhaus:<br />
A culinary<br />
hommage on the<br />
Spree<br />
German playwright Bertholt Brecht would have<br />
found it inhumane "to be put in the ground without<br />
having savoured a mouthful of good meat". He would<br />
certainly have been happy at Brecht's steakhouse on<br />
the Spree.<br />
The restaurant on Schiff bauerdamm, in the direct<br />
neighbourhood of the playwright's former place of<br />
work, the Berliner Ensemble, stands for the highest<br />
quality. Whether prime cuts, dry-aged steaks, fillets<br />
or burger patties, the meat comes from trustworthy<br />
suppliers the restaurant has worked with for many<br />
years, such as the Irish premium beef from Kildare<br />
Heritage Town.<br />
But you don’t have to be a carnivore to appreciate<br />
the restaurant, there is also a wide range of dishes<br />
for vegetarians and seafood lovers including vegan<br />
duck breast, tender salmon fillets and tasty salads.<br />
The restaurant has 100 seats and groups are very<br />
welcome.<br />
Brechts Steakhaus<br />
Schiffbauerdamm 7, 10117 Berlin<br />
S + U Friedrichstrasse<br />
brechts.de<br />
© Selina Schrader © Selina Schrader<br />
ADVERTORIAL<br />
Try l'Entrecôte, a typical French restaurant<br />
in the heart of Berlin…<br />
"C'est bon". Don't be surprised to hear some<br />
French expressions at Entrecôte, a restaurant<br />
and brasserie in the heart of Berlin that<br />
captures the essence of Paris. Many guests<br />
- including numerous French visitors - say<br />
that there is definitely a Parisian touch at<br />
Entrecôte.<br />
L'esprit brasserie, this attitude to life that<br />
characterises so much the French capital and of<br />
which so many poets, literary figures and artists have<br />
raved, is alive here. As their owners promise : we<br />
bring the spirit without ever copying it.<br />
Look at the menu and plunge into the savours and<br />
delights of a wide range of typical French cuisine. As<br />
a starter, choose between Escargots (snails), Foie<br />
Gras or huitres Fines de Claires (oysters). Follow<br />
with an onion soup with grated cheese, the famed<br />
beef entrecôte or the angus tenderloin, half a lobster<br />
or a salmon steak, a sole “Miller‘s Style", the Coq<br />
au Vin (chicken stewed in red wine), a Duck confit<br />
or scallops in a creamy sauce. These are the kind of<br />
typical dishes that can only be found in brasseries.<br />
ADVERTORIAL<br />
Feel on holiday for<br />
an evening at an<br />
authentic French<br />
brasserie<br />
Visitors to <strong>ITB</strong> Berlin can find a relaxing end to<br />
the day at the Ganymed Brasserie. Located in the<br />
heart of Berlin, between the government district<br />
and Friedrichstraße, this historically significant<br />
restaurant treats its guests to a wonderful view<br />
of the Spree river. The cosy atmosphere brings<br />
French style to Berlin, and the cuisine provides<br />
a touch of the Côte d'Azur thanks to the Seafood<br />
Tower with oysters, seafood or fine fish such as<br />
monkfish and sole, the charm of Burgundy with<br />
coq au vin and the classics of French country<br />
cuisine with the finest entrecôte, rack of lamb<br />
and fillet of beef. Whether in the charming<br />
brasserie-style interior or on the spacious terrace<br />
right by the water, diners will immediately feel<br />
like they are on holiday.<br />
Ganymed Brasserie<br />
Schiffbauerdamm 5, 10117 Berlin<br />
S+U Berlin Friedrichstraße<br />
ganymed-brasserie.de<br />
At the same time, the Entrecôte restaurant has<br />
preserved its originality and refrained from copying<br />
a Paris interior in any way. There is neither fake art<br />
deco nor a touch of plushy "over-the-top" style here.<br />
This is truly Berlin with a modern, elegant but very<br />
cosy interior.<br />
This does not detract from the attitude to life. On<br />
the contrary: it makes l'Entrecôte seem so real.<br />
L'Entrecôte cultivates l'esprit brasserie of Paris in the<br />
heart of Berlin. The best of both world cities...<br />
Entrecôte<br />
Schützenstraße 5, 10117 Berlin<br />
Tel: +49 30 20165496 entrecote.de<br />
© Selina Schrader © Selina Schrader<br />
54 <strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> news.itb.com
56 <strong>ITB</strong> <strong>BERLIN</strong> <strong>NEWS</strong> • TUES<strong>DAY</strong> 5 TH MARCH <strong>2024</strong> news.itb.com
<strong>2024</strong><br />
HALL<br />
PLAN<br />
Hall 4.2 / Stand 100<br />
Hall 4.1 / Stand 222<br />
Hall 1.1 / Stand 214a<br />
Hall 20 / Stand 306
Hall 5.2 / Stand 114<br />
Hall 2.2 / Stands 201/205<br />
Hall 2.2 / Stands 200 & 200a<br />
Hall 26 / Stand 122<br />
Hall 9 / Stand 123<br />
Hall 5.1 / Stand 136<br />
Hall 9 / Stand 219 Hall 25 / Stand 215 Hall 8.1 / Stand 109<br />
Hall 4.1 / Stand 122<br />
Hall 3.2 / Stands 100 & 101<br />
Hall 1.2 / Stands 107, 107a, 107b, 107c<br />
Hall 25 / Stand 119 Hall 25 / Stand 118<br />
Hall 8.1 / Stand 111 Hall 7.1c / Stand 117 Hall 5.1 / Stand142<br />
Hall 5.1 / Stand 135<br />
Hall 18 / Stand 400c<br />
Hall 1.1 / Stand 122