B albaa Group will at-
tend the WTM in Lon-
don to promote the unique
services and facilities of
its Hotels and Resorts
in Sharm El Sheikh and
Marsa Alam specially the
new Marina in Hamata.
T hierry Perrot Director of
IHG Operations Egypt
& Libya and GM InterCon-
tinental Cairo Citystars an-
nounced the promotion of
David Traynor to the Ex-
ecutive Assistant Manager
for InterContinental Cairo
Citystars.
M isr Company for
Sound, Light and
Cinema is one of the most
experienced companies in
the field of sound & light
projects in the Middle East,
Africa and Asia. Meet with
its Chairman, Eng. Essam
during the WTM.
H E Mr. Zoheir Garannah, Egyptian Minister of Tourism,
asserted that Egypt’s attainment of the 21st position
worldwide in tourist traffic is a solid proof of the success of
the tourist programs and plans set by the Ministry of Tourism
and it also means that we are following the right way; this lead
to the increase witnessed in tourist traffic by the end of 2008
as we received about 13 million tourist despite the crisis the
world tourism industry was facing.
The Minister explained that the successful cooperation be-
tween the Ministry and the private sector enabled the Minis-
try to minimize the negative effect on the Egyptian Tourism
through the collaboration with travel agents focusing on the
European market to increase the incoming tourist flow to
Egypt and participating in all international tourist bourses
and exhibitions to promote the distinct Egyptian tourist prod-
ucts. The statement of the Minister was made during his meet-
ing with a delegation of Saudi press representatives who where
in a fam trip organized by the Egyptian Tourist Authority. HE Mr. Zoheir Garannah
A
brand new trade show for the US meetings industry was an-
nounced in Las Vegas by Ray Bloom, Chairman of the IMEX
Group.
Bloom was joined by Bruce MacMillan, CEO of Meeting Professionals
International (MPI), IMEX America’s strategic partner and Chris Mey-
er, Vice President of Sales for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Au-
thority (LVCVA) in announcing the launch of IMEX America - America’s
worldwide exhibition for incentive travel, meetings and events.
The new show will take place at the Sands Expo Convention Center at
the Venetian/Palazzo from 11 – 13 October 2011 and will benefit from a
Ray Bloom Strategic Partnership with MPI, as well as a broad coalition of industry
support. Read more in page 3
 2 FIRST PAGE Travel World Magazine Travel World Magazine NEWS 3

Egyptian Federation of Tourist Chambers The Manager of the Egyptian

Federation of Tourist Cham- Egyptian Tourism ranked 21 Hotels of South Sinai urging
dedicates more than 1 million pounds to
worldwide in Tourist Traffic
bers elected Vise President of the application of the “NN”
system next season
subsidize the Faculty of Tourism in Luxor the Board of Members in the

T
World Tourism Organization sis the world tourism industry was facing. he chamber of

M E
r. Ahmed El Nahas, president of the EFTC, said that the
Federation is cooperating with the Ministry of Tourism
and other authorities in many projects that benefit tourism sec-
tor.
He added that the Federation is also taking part in the national proj-
ect of reforming the technical education and professional training,
which would contribute to increasing the competition capacity of the
Egyptian companies in both domestic and foreign markets.
Mr. Nahas mentioned that the Federation is also taking part in subsi-
dizing and developing hotel faculties, institutes and schools in Egypt.
One of these faculties is the faculty of hotels and tourism in Luxor,
which the Federation would invest about 1 million pounds in equip-
ping its kitchen and restaurant in addition to the operation costs, as
the Federation would assume the technical part in the training.
It would also utilize the faculty’s facilities in its training courses
aimed at qualifying the people of the south valley (other than the students) so helping them to get jobs
in the sector afterwards.
In the same context, the chambers of hotels and tourist establishments agreed to finance the project of
developing hotel schools with 5 million pounds.
The development work was already started in the public hotel school in Alexandria, in addition to
anther project to develop the hotel training center in Abu Kerkass, El Menya Governorate, in collabo-
ration with the Spanish government.
The Minister explained that the successful coop-
gypt won the seat of eration between the Ministry and the private sector
Vise President of the
enabled the Ministry to minimize the negative effect
Board of Members in the on the Egyptian Tourism through the collaboration
elections run in the World with travel agents focusing on the European market
Tourism Organization for to increase the incoming tourist flow to Egypt and
the period 2009 – 2011. participating in all international tourist bourses and
A statement issued by exhibitions to promote the distinct Egyptian tourist
the Egyptian Federation
products. The statement of the Minister was made
during his meeting with a delegation of Saudi press
of Tourist Chambers men- representatives who where in a fam trip organized by
tioned that the result of the
the Egyptian Tourist Authority. Mr. Garannah also
elections was announced proclaimed during that meeting that no body could
during the 18th plenary
deny that Cairo is still the favorite tourist destination
session assembly of the WTO in Kazakhstan.It
for the majority of the Arab tourists.
is worth mentioning that the Egyptian Federa- Regarding the Egyptian tourist agenda, he said it
tion has occupied the seat of Vise President since enjoys the usual diversity with new promising types of
1999 to the present moment, but it was said that tourism like Safari and Desert tourism and Therapy
this year’s elections was the toughest due to the tourism, as there are many excellent spas and wellbe-
increased number of the nominated Federations
ing resorts that maintain international standard.
Adding to those, there is also Golf tourism, which is
representing 112 countries, while the number of becoming an important tourist attracting type due to
the Board seats stood at 24.
the excellent golf courses built in many hotels in dif-
Mr. Ayman Al Taranisi, the manager of the Egyp- ferent tourist areas in Egypt.
tian Federation represents Egypt in this organiza-
Egyptian Minister of Tourism, HE Zoheir Garannah The Minister concluded that Egypt has a compre-
tion.
hensive agenda of festivals and different events, which
hotel establish-
ments in South Si-
nai announced that
it presented several
suggestions to the
Ministry of Tourism laguna vista
that could increase
the incoming tourist flow to the area during the
next season. Atop of the suggestions was the need
to speedup the application of the new evaluation
“NN” system on the hotels of the area. Another
suggestion was the need to enrich the tourist
events agenda with varied and new tourist and
sports events that would help attracting more
tourists to South Sinai.
Mr. Balbaa, president of the Chamber, asserted
the importance of fulfilling these suggestions spe-
cially speeding up the application of the “NN”
evaluation system and that it should be applied
to each of the tourist areas separately in order to
prevent the foreign travel agents and tour opera-
tors from using the new specifications to demand
more reduction in our hotels prices for the next

H E Mr. Zoheir Garannah, Egyptian Minister of include tourist festivals, sports events, cultural events season.
Mr. Balbaa asserted the importance of the im-
Award of Excellence Tourism, asserted that Egypt’s attainment of and a lot more, and that all these festivals and events
220 new tourist Establishments
Egypt hosts the the 21st position worldwide in tourist traffic is a solid were a great success. mediate application of the new hotels evaluation

Z
proof of the success of the tourist programs and plans Mr. Garannah asserted that the Egyptian Northern system (NN), which the Ministry of Tourism an-
oheir Garannah, Egyptian Minister of Tour-
annual convention nounced lately. He also highlighted the impor-
set by the Ministry of Tourism and it also means that Coast is one of the distinguished tourist products due
ism, endorsed 220 applications for the estab- we are following the right way; this lead to the in- to its breathtaking natural beauty and unique climate; tant role of this system in improving the hotels
lishment of new tourist companies, according to crease witnessed in tourist traffic by the end of 2008 he also declared that the Ministry is giving a special services, which would result in attracting more
of the Polish Travel the new law, with investments up to half billion as we received about 13 million tourist despite the cri- care and attention to this distinct destination. tourists to visit Egypt.
pounds. A source in the Ministry said that the
Agents Association
IMEX launches new US show - IMEX America
investors have been granted a 3-month grace to
complete the legal and financial procedures to

M A
get the final license of the new establishments.
r. Amr El Eza- These applications include the establishment brand new trade show for the US meetings all add their support through a number of market-
bi Chairman of of 20 limousine and tourist transport companies industry was announced in Las Vegas today ing and educational initiatives. In addition, ASAE
the Egyptian Tourist (October 28th, 2009) by Ray Bloom, Chair-

O
and rest are general tourist companies. (American Society of Association Executives) will or-
Authority declared The Minister explained that establishing new n the occasion of the World Tourism Day, H.E. man of the IMEX Group. ganize dedicated association-led education on the day
that Egypt will host Zuheir Garanah , the Minister of Tourism, award- Bloom was joined by Bruce MacMillan, CEO of before the show. Further industry partnerships will
tourist companies would lead to pump new in-
ed Resta Grand Resort-Marsa Alam the “Award of Meeting Professionals International (MPI), IMEX be announced in the coming months.
the 2nd annual con- vestments in tourism sector and opening new Excellence” for its distinguished services and remark- America’s strategic partner and Chris Meyer, Vice Speaking at the press conference at the Venetian/
vention of the Polish tourist markets, especially that the new compa- able effort in promoting tourism in Marsa Alam. Mr. President of Sales for the Las Vegas Convention and Palazzo Meetings Hotel, Bloom explained: “IMEX
Travel Agents Cham- nies would work on the incoming foreign tourism Stefan Hilgers, the hotel general manager, received the Visitors Authority (LVCVA) in announcing the launch America will deliver the largest-scale hosted buyer
ber for the first time which eventually would add up to the national award. Resta Grand Resort is considered to be the flag- of IMEX America - America’s worldwide exhibition program in North America, where top meetings and
as Egypt is now be- economy. ship resort for Resta Hotels management company. for incentive travel, meetings and events. incentive buyers from across the US and the world
coming a promising The new show will take place at the Sands Expo will travel and stay free as our guests.
tourist destination
for the Polish tourist. Egypt hosts the 2nd International Arab Convention Center at the Venetian/Palazzo from 11
– 13 October 2011 and will benefit from a Strategic
For the inaugural show in 2011, we are forecast-
ing 1,500 hosted buyers, of whom 80% will originate
Mr. Ezabi so de-
convention for Electronic Tourism
Partnership with MPI, as well as a broad coalition of from within North America - the balance arriving
clared after signing an agreement of cooperation industry support. It will be run as part of the IMEX from across the world. We will also conduct large-

with Mr. Jan Korask representing the Polish Tour-
ism Chamber, during Mr. Ezabi’s visit to Poland
in September 2009.
The ETA will subsidize the visit of the members
of the Polish Tourism Chamber in collaboration
with “VTVA Club Polska” which is one of the big-
gest Polish travel agents that is doing business
with the Egyptian market.
The aforementioned convention is due in No-
vember 2009 and is planed to take place in Cairo,
Hurghada and Luxor in order to be acquainted
with the well-diversified nature of the Egyptian
tourist product.
T
Group of exhibitions and, as such, will be character-
he second International Arab convention for Electronic Tourism and Marketing would be held ized by an uncompromising focus on business, inter-
between 14 and 18 December 2009 in the Red See, Egypt. The motto of the convention is “Tour- national hosted buyer programs and industry-wide
ism and Marketing in the technology era, a dream came true”. collaboration.
This event is an initiative made by the International Organization for Electronic Tourism Industry IMEX America will benefit from the widespread
“IOETI” and sponsored by the Arab Tourism Organization, League of Arab States, in collabora- support of the industry’s biggest and most powerful
tion with the Egyptian Ministries of Tourism and Telecommunication besides other Arab and inter- associations. Site (the leading association worldwide
national organizations. for incentive travel and motivational events) will hold
Mr. Hosam Darwish, the electronic tourism expert and manager of the organization, said that the their 2011 Annual Conference immediately follow-
convention is primarily directed towards those working in tourism and electronic tourism field in ing the first show from 13 – 15 October, whilst ICCA
(International Congress & Convention Association),
addition to all interested in the sector of Information Technology and E-commerce.
DMAI (Destination Marketing Association Interna-
One of the convention advantages is the large number of specialists from all over the world who
tional), AIPC (International Association of Congress
would present many lectures tackling different and important issues in a variety of domains.
Centres) and ECM (European Cities Marketing) will
November 2009 WTM - London November 2009 WTM - London
scale visitor marketing campaigns to attract several
thousand more key decision-makers from across the
country.”
Speaking as IMEX America’s strategic partner,
Bruce MacMillan, President and CEO of MPI, com-
mented: “MPI has a strong history of partnership
with the leading players in the global meetings indus- Ray Bloom - imex group chairman
try. As a long time partner of the IMEX Group, we are
honored to be the strategic partner in IMEX America are delighted that IMEX America’s home will be here
to provide compelling educational experiences to the in Las Vegas. With more than 140,000 hotel rooms,
superb transport connections from across the US and
entire meetings and event industry as part of this tre-
mendous new marketplace opportunity.” Comment- growing direct international links we are confident
ing on the trade show’s chosen location, Chris Meyer, that Las Vegas will provide IMEX America with a
Vice President of Sales for the LVCVA stated: “We truly outstanding, long-term home.”

4 HOTEL NEWS
Balbaa Group to attend WTM London to promote
its unique Resorts all over Egypt
B
Eng. Ahmed Balbaa, Chairman of Balbaa Group
albaa Group will attend the WTM in Lon-
don to promote the unique services and fa-
cilities of its Hotels and Resorts in Sharm
El Sheikh and Marsa Alam.
Eng. Ahmed Balbaa, Chairman of Balbaa Group
THE CAIRO MARRIOTT HOTEL AWARDED
AT THE WORLD TOURISM DAY 2009
O
n the occasion of the World Tourism Day 2009 “Tourism Celebrating Diversity”; the Cairo Marriott Hotel
received the “Award of Excellence” from the Ministry of Tourism in appreciation of the hotel’s efforts in
promoting tourism in Egypt.
In his speech, H.E. Zoheir Garranah, the Minister of Tourism, elaborated that the ministry had awarded the
hotels that were able to positively contribute to the Egyptian tourism by bringing in large numbers of tourists, in
addition to the most renowned tourist organizations.
In the photo: Mr. Gamal Moursy, Director of Rooms Operations at the Cairo Marriott Hotel receiving the
award from H.E. Zoheir Garranah, the Egyptian Minister of Tourism & Mr. Ahmed Al Nahas, Chairman of the
Egyptian Tourism Federation.
who will head the Group’s Team in WTM London
said about the new Marina in Hamata “It is lo-
cated 107km South of Marsa Alam giving access
to famous diving locations such as Rocky Island,
Saint John’s Reef and Zabaegad Island, enabling
divers to fully explore the South of the Red Sea
discovering some of the richest varieties of corals
and marina life, in addition to provide all boats
with a complete services such as Fuel supply, Wa-
ter supply, 5 meter deep harbor basin, Harbor-
master control, Supermarket, Shopping, catering,
Laundry and Coffee Shop ”.
Balbaa Group, one of the leading investors in
tourism in Egypt, consists of 6 joint stock com-
panies working in Tourist Investment and Devel-
opment projects. It owns and Manages 8 Hotels
and Resorts in Sharm El Sheikh and the Red Sea:
Kahramana Hotel in Naama Bay (Sharm) with
119 rooms, Laguna Vista Beach Resort in Nabq
Bay (Sharm) with 341 rooms, Laguna Vista Gar-
den Resort in Nabq Bay (Sharm) with 160 rooms,
El Hayat Sharm Resort in Napq with 234 rooms,
Kahramana Beach Resort in Marsa Alam (Red
Sea) with 180 rooms, Kahramana Garden Resort
in Marsa Alam (Red Sea) with 96 rooms, Calimera
Habiba Beach Resort in Marsa Alam (Red Sea)
with 320 rooms and suites, Abou Dabbab Diving
Lodge in Marsa Alam (Red Sea) with 62 rooms, 50
Hotel Apartments in Palm Project in Dubai and in
addition to the Newly Marina Hamta which was
opened summer 2009.
Travel World Magazine Travel World Magazine NEWS 5
Mr. Saad Attia, Area Director of Sales & Mar-
keting in Balbaa Group, who will attend WTM to
promote the Sharm and the Marsa Alam destina-
tions, said that all the resorts have a good image
now in most of the International Markets after the
strong market plan was executed during the pres-
ent year.
“Our professional marketing team will not leave
any chance to promote the unique Resorts; in all
international big tourism events to let the whole
world know about our Resorts”, Said Mr. Attia.
It is worth mentioning that Balbaa Group for
Hotels & Resorts has a number of New Projects
under construction and due to open within the
upcoming few years such as Kahramana Marsa
Matrouh to open summer 2010, New Resort near
Marina Hamata consists of 400 rooms due to open
by late 2011, 300 rooms Hotel in Ras El Khema
UAE to open 2010, Laguna Vista Real Estate proj-
ect in Sharm (302 units between Villas and Apart-
ments) to open 2010 and B&G Hotel Management
company in Dubai.
The Group’s total investment is LE 1.2 Billion
with 2500 employees under the umbrella of Bal-
baa Group.
Eng. Ahmed Balbaa is known to be the Honorary
President of Marsa Alam city, for being the pio-
neer of tourism development in Marsa Alam and
the First Investor to build a hotel in this unique
area.
Pascal Fitoussi joins Mövenpcik
Hotels & Resorts as Director of
Sales and Marketing for Africa
J osef Kufer, Senior
Vice President,
Mövenpcik Hotels &
Resorts Africa Divi-
sion, has appointed
Pascal Fitoussi as the
Director of Sales &
Marketing for the
Swiss hotel group in
Africa.
Pascal Fitoussi brings
with him over 17 years
of experience, working
in the Sales and mar-
keting field, where he
was exposed to diver-
sity of cultures in: Thailand, Guadeloupe, Mauritius,
France, Gulf States and Africa. And Prior Joining
the Mövenpcik Hotels & Resorts, Pascal was respon-
sible for the sales and marketing of 24 hotels in Paris,
France and most recently Regional director of Business
Development for the biggest hotel in Africa operate by
the Italian hotel group “Domina Hotel Group”.
In his Capacity as a Director of Sales & Marketing for
the Africa Division, Pascal will have oversight for Möv-
enpcik Hotels & Resorts Sales and Marketing Strategy,
which includes penetrating new markets, creating new
opportunities; expand the best practice strategies and
development plans whilst maintaining the brand vis-
ibility.
November 2009 WTM - London May 2009 ATM - Dubai
 Travel World Magazine Travel World Magazine NEWS 7
6 HOTEL NEWS

David Traynor promoted to Executive Assistant SUNRISE Garden Beach

Manager of InterContinental Cairo Citystars Receives the Award
T
hierry Perrot Director of IHG Operations Egypt & of Excellence
O
Libya and General Manager InterContinental Cairo n the occa-
Citystars announced the promotion of David Traynor sion of the
from Area Director of Sales & Marketing IHG Egypt & world tourism
Libya to the Executive Assistant Manager for InterConti- day 2009 “ Tour-
nental Cairo Citystars. ism Celebrating
David’s 12 years experience within the hospitality indus- Diversity “ that
try has been gained through his many assignments within was held under
the Asia / Pacific Region covering many exotic locations the auspices of
such as Thailand, Singapore, Philippines, Indonesia, Asia His Excellency
& Australia. Zoheir Garra-
Prior to joining IHG in 2005 David worked for many of nah -Minister of
the leading hotel management companies throughout the Tourism , SUN-
Asia Pacific Region as well as some time in the UK with a RISE Garden
leading luxury hotel brand. Beach Resort has
In his new capacity, David will be in charge of all Com- received a presti-
mercial Departments and Food and Beverage within the gious certificate
InterContinental Cairo Citystars Hotel. of appreciation

The Red Star Award for Saad Attia

for its remark-
able efforts in promoting Tourism in Egypt and
increasing Number of guests during the year.

S aad Attia received the Red Star Award from

Rewe Touristic Group for Calimera Habiba
as the Best Selling Resort in Marsa Alam During
SUNRISE Garden Beach Resort - Hurghada
is placed among a Huge number of Resorts and
Cruises managed by SUNRISE Company , with
the annual meeting for the Rewe Touristic Group the recent opening of SUNRISE Le Jardin Resort
which was held in Mallorca. Hurghda and SUNRISE M/S African Dreams -
Mr. Attia received the Red Star Award on Behalf Naser Lake , the company’s portofolia reaches 13
of the Calimera Habiba Resort – Marsa Alam as properties in Hurghada , sharm & Aswan.
the best selling resort in the destination. On the same time the company will witnness 05
Also Mr. Ahmed Balbaa the Chairman of Bal- new openings within a very short period.
baa Group decided to appoint Mr. Saad Attia to
become a Board Member in B&G Hotel Manage- 5 MANAGEMENT CONTRACTS
ment Company as of October 1st 2009.
Mr. Attia, will attend WTM to promote the
FOR STYLE IMAGE
Sharm and the Marsa Alam destinations. He said
that all the resorts have a good image now in most
of the International Markets after the strong mar-
M oez El Shohdi,
Chairman and CEO,
said that the company has
ket plan was executed during the present year. signed 4 management
contracts with: Olympic
group, El Nozha Seasons,
New SUNRISE Le Jardin Resort to open this November Cairo 3A plus Bary Style
Hotel -Pyramids.
Style will implement the
services, energy manage-
ment maintenance proce-
dures in Olympic Group
and will apply the safety
and security measures to ensure the best performance
at the least costs as well as utilizing the best use of space.
He explained that Olympic Group Building is owned by
Namaa for Development & Real Estate Investment Co.
It contains 7 floors occupied by different companies
besides 2 floors include: meeting rooms, ballrooms,
training centers, exhibit rooms, gymnazium, gift shop,
barber shop and a parking area.
El Nozha Seasons, contains 5 floors and Cairo 3A, lo-
cated at El Tagamoa, which contains 2 floors besides
the services facilities area.
He added, a management contract was signed to man-
age Style Bary hotel which includes 140 rooms. It was
agreed to manage this hotel according to Style Image
new policy of imlementing the healthy measures. As

T
well, he is now negotiating other management con-
he New SUNRISE Le Jardin Resort is scheduled to open at the begining of November 2009. tracts in the Egyptian touristic destinations and that
The Hotel’s contemporary designed 486 rooms, the Spacious outdoor swimming pools, a private he is under the process of establishing a new branch
sandy beach where guest can lounge to enjoy the view of the crystal water, the whole range of sporting for the company in Saudi Arabia called “Style Im-
activities, a health club and a variety of boutiques in addition to various restaurants to ensure that age Saudia” to manage Style Al Ansar El Zahaby at
guests enjoy the very best culinary choice around the clock create a comprehensive offer of leisure and El Medina El Monawara. He is also negotiating other
entertainment facilities. management contracts at Mekka Al Mokarrama.
May 2009 ATM - Dubai November 2009 WTM - London
8 HOTEL NEWS Travel World Magazine

November 2009 WTM - London

10 RESORTS Travel World Magazine Travel World Magazine NEWS 13

InterContinental Citystars participates in Think Green ..Now at

the World Tourism Day celebration Sheraton Montazah
S heraton Montazah
makes going green su-
per easy. Almost as easy as
the daily guest welcoming.
From the many green tips
staff are being educated in
their day to day work to
the sustainability measure-
ments taken in all hotel
operations including recy-
cling, energy conservation,
carbon footprint reduc-
tion... etc.
Eng. Mounir Ismail; Chief
Engineer of the Hotel and
his green team have set the
plans towards green thinking implementation that will help

I
nterContinental Hotels Group Citystars cel-
ebrated the International Day of Tourism that
took place at Cairo International Convention
Center.
The evening started by a cocktail reception for
550 tourism officials and experts, InterConti-
nental, Holiday Inn and Staybridge Suite Cairo
Citystars participated in catering for the event.
The main purpose of World Tourism Day is to
foster awareness among the international com-
M. Fawzi: Director of Finance & Business Support, Egypt & Libya
munity of the importance of tourism and its so-
cial, cultural, political and economic values.
The timing of World Tourism Day is indeed
particularly appropriate as it comes at the end
of the high season in the northern hemisphere
and the beginning of the season in the southern
hemisphere, when tourism is of relevant interest
to hundreds of thousands of people worldwide
and to tourists and the operational sector in par-
ticular.
making guest stay as enjoyable, memorable and sustainable
as possible.
Sheraton Montazah green council announced its plan in 3
main areas to improve the planet, giving hotel customers a
chance to “green their stay”. The plan called “Green your
Sheraton Hotel stay” which basically adopts following ac-
tions: Waste Management:
Including recycling, hazardous /controlled waste manage-
ment, organic waste management, Styrofoam elimination,
amenity management, bottled water alternatives, sustainable
food & beverage and environmentally preferred products.
Energy and Water Conservation:Through high efficiency
lighting, occupancy sensors, toilet & urinal efficiency and low

S tephen McCall; IHG Vice President Finance & Business
Support MEA announced the promotion of Mohamed Faw-
zi to Director of Finance & Business Support, Egypt & Libya.
Fawzi brings with him over 17 years of experience in the hos-
pitality and hotels industry. He has worked at various hotel
chains holding many positions throughout these years related
to finance & business support. He joined InterContinental Ho-
tels Group Citystars in 2006 as Director of Finance & Business
Support.
In his new capacity, Mohamed is looking forward to this new
regional position as well as implementing the company’s new
strategies.
flow faucets and showerheads.
Preventive Maintenance being an important and essential
factor that ensures all equipment and systems perform their
intended functions reliably and efficiently, thereby promote
energy and water conservation.
“By implementing good housekeeping and pollution pre-
vention, encouraging green practices in both employees and
guests, conserving energy and water, minimizing food waste
and reducing solid waste, we assure providing quality service
while helping the environment and ensuring our responsibil-
ity towards protecting the planet, Said Atef Wilson, General
Manager of the Hotel”.

New Hirings in SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises Mövenpick El Gouna is changing

everything but the beach

1 2
3 4
T
he eagerly expected renovations at the Möv-
enpick Resort & Spa El Gouna have now
started and they will ensure that the popular
resort on the Red Sea will continue to meet the ever
increasing demands of today’s “savvy” travellers.
Work started in June, with the first phase being the
5 6 complete renovation of the Palavrion Restaurant,

H
ossam El Shaer – Chairman of SUNRISE Resorts &
Cruises – Egypt has announced the appointments of
Mohamed Khalifa as the new General Manager - SENTIDO
Oriental Dream – Marsa Alam, Tarrif Fouad in the capac-
ity of Hotel Manager -SUNRISE Tirana Aqua Park Resort –
Sharm, Micheal Wieser as the new General Manager - SUN-
RISE Royal Makadi and Mohamed Farouk in the capacity
of Resident Manager - SUNRISE Island View Sharm.
Mr. El Shaer has also announced the promotion of Gouda
Ramadan in the capacity of Hotel Manager - Festival Riv-
iera and SUNRISE le Jardin – Hurghada and Tarek El Men-
shawy as Resident Manager - SUNRISE Holidays Resort
– Hurghada.
the resort’s main dining outlet. The restaurant is be-
ing rebuilt from scratch and is also being extended
so that the outside veranda can be used throughout
the whole year. The restaurant will re-open its doors
in mid September with a completely “new look”.
This will compare favourably with the designs of some of the leading restau-
rants in Europe, which major in on buffet style dining with live cooking stations
and Executive Chef, Alfred Zuberbuehler, is planning lots of new ‘culinary ini-
tiatives’ to make the dining experience truly different.
The second phase of the renovations is also underway with the complete refur-
1-Tarek El Menshawy bishment of 26 rooms.
2- Mohamed Khalifa
The makeover includes a modern décor and a new room set up with the bed
3-Micheal Wieser
4- Gouda Ramadan
centred in the middle of the room facing the windows. Guests can now enjoy the
5- Mohamed Farouk fabulous views, for which the hotel is well known, right from their bed when wak-
6- Tarrif Fouad ing up in the morning.

November 2009 WTM - London November 2009 WTM - London

12 RESTA HOTELS
Young and dynamic management provides innovation in the hospitality industry
Resta Hotels and Resorts...A Rising
Star in the Hotel Business
T
he Resta Hotels and Resorts
Management Company is the
new face in the Middle East’s
hospitality industry. It burst onto the
scene in June 2008 and provides a new
innovative direction for hospitality.
The aim is to combine Arabian charm
with international standards.
Resta is a subsidiary of the Arab In-
ternational Company for Hotels &
Tourism (AICHT), a leading company
in tourism development for more than
35 years.
Remarkably, Resta was able to sign
management contracts for six hotels in
Egypt and Lebanon, in just one year,
which is recognized by tourism experts
as a major accomplishment.
Mr. Mohamed Abdel Jawad, (Chair-
man of the Board of Directors) said, es-
tablishing this company was always an
idea in the mind of AICHT board. The
company started operation in 1974 as
an owner of several hotels, managed
by international chains, who depend
on Arab calibers to operate.
A question was raised several times:
how far will the company invest Arab
funds in hotel development and hand it
over to foreign entities.
We wanted to allow the opportunity
for Arab expertise to gather in one
entity to manage Arab investments.
He continued, “Resta was founded by
Egyptian highly qualified calibers who
own the international expertise in tour-
ism and hospitality industry”.
Mr. Ashraf El-Nahas, (Resta Hotels &
Resorts General Manager, and a mem-
ber of the Board of Directors) said,
“Our hotels and resorts reflect the ex-
pected international standards and the
spirit of middle-eastern hospitality”.
Resta seeks to manage and offer diver-
Mr. Ashraf El Nahas, Mrs Rasha Azab, Mr. Hassan Ragab,
Mrs Hala Sobhy and Mr. Saleh Abo Zekry.
sified categories within its portfolio.
Our hotels & resorts range from lux-
urious hotels and resorts, such as the
Resta Grand Resort at Marsa Alam.
This is a $200 million investment and
the flagship of the Resta brand. There
is also Resta Blue Bay Resort at Ras
Sudr, which will be opened in early
2010.
There are 4-star hotels such as Resta
Reef at Marsa Alam and Resta Port
Said Hotel. Budget hotels are on of-
fer as well, such as the Resta Club at
Sharm El Sheikh.
Finally, there is the Boutique category
of hotels and we are particularly proud
to manage Le Patio Hotel at Solidaire,
in stylish, downtown Beirut. This ex-
clusive boutique hotel will open in the
third quarter of this year.
Mr. Hassan Ragab, (Executive Direc-
tor of Development), said, “The de-
velopment strategy of the company is
based on flexibility and transparency
in all dealings. We practice immediate
response and decision-making, thanks
to the proximity of management and
decision makers to owners and inves-
tors in MENA”.
Hassan added, “We aim to manage 15
hotels and resorts by 2013. Our strat-
egy is to manage a hotel in every major
city and world- renowned resort des-
tination in MENA”. For his part, Mr.
Saleh Abo Zekry, (Executive Director
of Finance & IT ), said “The compa-
ny focuses on building a strong infra-
structure by means of state-of-the-art
information systems that benefit from
online communications with the global
market.
He went on to say, “This month we
launch our website is www.restahotels.
com which will allow direct reserva-
tions from the key source markets into
our hotels”.
Travel World Magazine
Mrs. Rasha Azab, (Director of Brand
& Commercial Development), added
“The Resta brand launch and devel-
opment depends on creating a strong
brand identity, proposition and stan-
dards for the brand experience, as well
as its related services and facilities.
She said “Our objective is to provide
a new, fresh approach for the hospital-
ity industry in Egypt and Middle East.
The service standards are designed to
meet the guests’ needs and to provide
a distinctive and different experience.
“Resta Beach” is just one of a number
of unique products.
It delivers a spirit of fun and enter-
tainment at all our resorts beaches.
There is also “Resta Morning”, which
will be on offer from 6am till 12 noon.
This is a service product that starts
with a wake-up call, morning coffee,
breakfast meals, etc.
These programs will be launched
before the end of 2009. Programs for
businessmen will launch by 2010.
Resta is fully committed to provide an
excellent atmosphere in terms of com-
pensation, housing, training and gen-
eral conditions for all its employees.
It believes that this is the way to en-
courage and motivate them to give
their best, at all times. By doing so,
Resta’s guests are assured of an inspi-
rational stay.
Finally, Mr. Ashraf El-Nahas com-
mented by saying “Our Company is
looking to benefit Egyptian and Arab
tourism as well as society in general.
This will be in line with the Ministry
of Tourism’s policies and will help cre-
ate new job opportunities.
We are proud that Resta’s roots are
Egyptian, and Arab and we look for-
ward to taking the new brand global”.
November 2009 WTM - London
14 INTERNATIONAL Travel World Magazine Travel World Magazine INTERNATIONAL 15

Lufthansa Group airlines carried 55.4 million

passengers in first nine months 2009
Group traffic figures include bmi since July and Austrian Airlines since September

L ufthansa traffic figures declined in the first

nine months 2009 owing to the persistent
global recession. Germany’s biggest airline was
consequently unable to match the level achieved
in the comparable term in the previous year.
The Lufthansa passenger count in the first three
quarters of the current year were down by 3.9 per
cent to 41.9 million. In the same period, capacity
was scaled back by 1.9 per cent in line with the
drop in demand.
Revenue seat-kilometres fell by 3.8 per cent.
The seat load factor was down accordingly by
1.5 points to 77.7 per cent. Passenger numbers
dropped in all traffic regions with the exception of
the MiddleEast/Africa.
All in all, Lufthansa, SWISS, bmi and Austrian
Airlines welcomed 55.4 million passengers on
board their flights in the first nine months of the
year. Of the total, about 10.3 million flew with
SWISS, around 970,000 with Austrian Airlines
and about 2.2 million with bmi. The Group’s nine-
month figures include passengers from Austrian
Airlines only since September and those from bmi
only since July. The number of flights operated by
the Lufthansa Group rose to 636,199, an increase
of 1.4 per cent.
Lufthansa Cargo also posted a drop in freight
tonnage transported and utilisation in the first
nine months of the year. Overall, the Lufthansa
logistics services subsidiary transported a total
of 1.1 million tonnes of freight and mail, which is
S tefan Loecherbach, born in Germany on Au-
gust 13, 1971 took over the responsibility as
Director for Saudi Arabia & Bahrain in August,
2009. He is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where
he is responsible for Lufthansa and Swiss Inter-
national Air Lines, overseeing both airlines’ op-
erational and commercial success in Riyadh and
Jeddah.
Stefan Locherbach started his career at Lufthan-
sa in 1995, after completing his training in airline
administration and simultaneousely getting a de-
gree in in business administration. At Lufthansa
Cargo Stefan Loecherbach worked in the areas of
distribution management, cost management and
in distribution controlling, before moving to the
Lufthansa Passengers Airline division in 1999,
where we become a key account manager for large
travel agencies and tour operators at Lufthansa
Passenger Airlines. Three years later he was pro-
moted to head of passenger sales for the Bremen
and Hannover sales areas.
In 2005 Stefan Loecherbach was appointed to
the position of General Manager Sales and Dis-
Stefan Loecherbach tribution for the southwestern German markets
Director Saudi Arabia & Bahrain , Lufthansa German of Baden-Württemberg, northern Bavaria, Rhe-
Airlines and Swiss International Air Lines inland-Pfalz and Saarland. In this function Stefan
Loecherbach moved to Stuttgart from where he
was responsible for a total of 95 staff. From 2007
15.2 per cent less than in the previous year. Capac- to July 2009 he was in charge of Sales for Nord-
ity utilisation in the airfreight business fell to 61.7 badenwuerttemberg and the Saarland mit Sitz in
per cent. Mannheim.

Air Arabia and Travco Group to launch new low cost carrier in Egypt

A ir Arabia, the first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC) in the Middle East and North Africa, and Travco Group, the Middle
East’s largest travel and hospitality group announced the signing of a joint venture agreement to launch a new low cost
carrier based in Egypt.
The new carrier will serve Europe, Africa and Asia markets and will represent Air Arabia third hub after UAE and Morocco.
Building upon Air Arabia’s existing services to 57 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia, the new airline
will contribute to the on-going development of the Egyptian travel and tourism sector as well as offer a larger base of customer
best value for money air travel.
“The enormous commercial success of Air Arabia in the six years since the carrier was launched makes clear the strength of its
business model, which we are confident will allow Air Arabia ‘Egypt’ to reach new heights,” said Hamed El Chiaty, Chairman
and CEO of Travco Group. “As the country’s most qualified tourism and hospitality group, the Travco Group will provide its
own keen insights into the European and Egyptian markets as well as the wider region.”
“On behalf of the Air Arabia Group, I am delighted to announce this new partnership with the Travco Group, that will expand
Air Arabia services in Egypt and across the wider Europe, Africa and Asia region,” said Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammed Al
Thani, Chairman of Air Arabia. “At a time when the global aviation industry is witnessing serious challenges as a consequence
of the worldwide financial crisis, we continue to move forward with our strategic expansion strategy, as demonstrated by this im-
portant announcement. Through this new partnership, we look forward to replicate the success Air Arabia has already achieved
from its existing hubs”
The new carrier, whose operations will be managed by the Air Arabia Group, will follow the successful low-cost model pio-
neered in the Middle East and North Africa by Air Arabia. Further information regarding the new joint venture will be com-
municated.
Air Arabia, which currently operates a total fleet of 20 new Airbus A320 aircraft, launched service from Sharjah, UAE, in Octo-
ber 2003. Earlier in May this year, the airline launched its second hub in Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca, currently providing service to 11 destinations
across Europe and North Africa. The airline has a confirmed order with Airbus for the purchase of 44 A320 aircraft.
Travco Group, a leading travel and hospitality empire, employs over 24,000 professionals, generating over € 1 billion in revenues. Travco Group operates an extensive
collection of 146 hotels, resorts and cruises in Europe, Egypt, the Middle East and including the management of the prestigious 81 Steigenberger and InterCity hotels;
two mega-real estate developments on Egypt’s North Coast and the Red Sea; a large fleet of 1,200 tourist transport vehicles and a full range of aviation services including
the nationwide presence of ticketing offices and aircraft ground handling.

November 2009 WTM - London November 2009 WTM - London

16 INTERNATIONAL
The Lausanne Palace & Spa invites you
to discover its brand new reception hall.
A
fter several months of renovation work,
the metamorphosis of the lobby is spec-
tacular.
In this charming new décor bathed in light, an
elegant bar, the 19 15, now awaits you at the heart
of the Palace.
This majestic hall combines the classic inspira-
tion of columns with the contemporary lines of its
furniture and fabrics. A fireplace adds its gentle
warmth to the surroundings.
Renovation work is continuing throughout the
ground floor of the Palace and soon the corridors,
reception and banqueting rooms will also have a
completely new look.
La Table d’Edgard will be reopening its doors at
the beginning of November following a makeover
by Damien Hairabetian, the famous designer of
the kitchens of Joël Rebuchon and Alain Ducasse.
In this venue favoured by gourmets for its excep-
tional gastronomic delights, you’ll enjoy a mag-
nificent panoramic view of Lake Geneva and the
Alps as you survey dishes simmering on the hob.
Indeed, through the magical effect of glazed walls
you will have a plunging view of the kitchen and of
Zara Spa at Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea scoops Condé Nast Traveller Readers award
R
egarded as the UK’s most prestigious
travel awards event, the Condé Nast
Readers Awards was attended by key figures
in the UK travel and transport industry.
“Condé Nast Traveller is one of the industry’s
most respected publications and we are de-
lighted with our win which is highly indicative
of the popularity of our spa and resort among
travellers” said Bruno Huber general man-
ager and regional manager Jordan. “There is
nothing more satisfying for us than winning
this award which is voted for by our custom-
ers and this certainly cements our standing in
the international marketplace”
Zara Spa features Oriental inspired Ther-
Edgard Bovier and his team at work.
In addition, along the bay window, two new ta-
bles d’hôtes directly overlooking the kitchen will
soon be available.
In a constant effort to improve its services, the
Palace’s 140 rooms are also going to be completely
renovated. Work will begin this autumn. The spa-
cious suites will be transformed to make way for a
trendy, elegant, refined and warm décor.
Similarly, bathrooms will be redesigned with
marble, luxury and optimal comfort very much to
the fore.
Ten years after its creation, the spa’s Wellbeing
Centre has completed its metamorphosis and now
offers a floor space of 2100m2 devoted to beauty,
health and wellbeing.
The Window-Club and its “Yogi Booster Bar &
Lounge” serves healthy organic food and drinks.
The spa also houses a Spa Suite with its magnifi-
cent antique copper bathtub, Moroccan hammam
and Finnish sauna.
Not forgetting the “Hair Spa by Aveda”, a salon
dedicated to hair care, open seven days a week.
mariums, Tropical Rain Showers and 24 spa-
cious treatment rooms and suites. It is also
known for the diversity of its five pools: the
Hydro-Pool; large outdoor heated massage
pool with 3% salt concentration, various mas-
sage jets, Whirlpool and geysers surround the
pool over looking the Dead Sea; the Kneipp-
foot massage pool; the indoor Dead Sea pool
with its 28% salt concentration and the infin-
ity pool; over looking the still waters of the
sea, provides one of the most spectacular sun-
set views in the world.
Movenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea is found
in a traditional village setting nestled among
lush gardens that serve to restore your sense
Travel World Magazine
Give the children a real
treat with the “very
Important Baby”
programme
Hyatt Hotels in Germany and Switzerland
are setting new standards for travelling with
children
H
amburg, October 2009 – At the Hyatt hotels in
Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne and Mainz as well as
Zurich younger guests receive very special VIP treat-
ment with a twist.
These hotels offer the exclusive “Very Important
Baby” (VIB)-programme, setting new standards for
travelling with children rather than for business or
pleasure. On arrival a baby bed, a diaper changing
table, a children’s bathrobe and slippers as well as
baby shampoo and oil are all waiting in the room.
For the older ones toys, painting books or DVDs can
be requested while the little ones will be excited about
a small welcome gift.
A babysitting service can be arranged with advance
bookings and a baby phone and childproof sockets
are also available.
The VIB-progamme is complimentary only the num-
ber of children and their ages must be noted when
making a reservation.
Additionally guest receive 50 % off the Hyatt Daily
Rate for a second room for children aged 12 and un-
der. At the restaurants, special children’s menus are
available with breakfast free of charge for children
under six. Children aged 6-12 enjoy a 50% discount
on the regular price.
of well-being and balance, with spa offers an
extensive menu of treatments that reflect the
elements of the natural surroundings of the
Dead Sea. A signature element is the black
mud which cleans, purifies and restores the
skin’s natural minerals.
November 2009 WTM - London
Travel World Magazine INTERNATIONAL 17
«Never change a winning product»
T
hat’s why our product range of standard Swiss berger» will be added as 7th classic scenic route. new trains with large panorama windows offer
Travel System passes and tickets will again re- The Lötschberger train connects Bern with the stunning views and extra comfort. As of Decem-
main unchanged in 2010. We will continue to Valais region on the scenic mountain route via ber 2009, seat reservations will be possible in this
offer the Swiss Travel System products in Euro as sell- Kandersteg and the old Lötschberg tunnel. The train.
ing currency. It seems that so far the various overseas
markets have absorbed this price change well.
Although we do not increase the prices of our domestic
price range in Switzerland, we are obliged to increase
the Swiss Travel System rates in Euro in order to cope
with the fact that the Euro currency got weaker against
the Swiss Franc over the last year. As a result the rates
of the Swiss Travel System products in Euro will be in-
creased by 4-5% as of 2010.
New Rail and Hotel Package: Top of Europe and Ti-
cino (Swiss Glaciers and Palm Trees)
A new itinerary combines the two destinations «Ber-
nese Oberland» and «Ticino» on a scenic round trip, a
journey from Swiss glaciers to palm trees. Highlights
are the excursion to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe, a
ride on the new scenic train «Lötschberger», the jour-
ney on the Centovalli Railway through a ruggedly ro-
mantic scenery, and finally a stay in Lugano in Ticino,
under the Southern sun where the climate is already
Mediterranean.
The basic package includes 2 nights in Interlaken or
Grindelwald, 2 nights in Lugano, all transfers from / to
the Swiss airport or border and the excursion to Jung-
fraujoch – Top of Europe. 5 days/4 nights starting at
unbeatable EUR 450.- per person, 2nd class travel and
accommodation in 3 star hotels, based on twin shar-
ing rooms, with breakfast and all taxes included. As
always, additional nights, upgrades to 1st class travel
and 4 star hotels and children hotel vouchers are avail-
able.
As of January 1, 2010, the Swiss Pass is valid for free
travel on the Mount Rigi rail- and cableways (previous-
ly 50% discount). This includes the two cogwheel trains
from Arth-Goldau and Vitznau to Rigi Kulm and the
aerial cableway from Weggis to Rigi Kaltbad.
Don’t forget the Swiss Travel System bonus partners.
The reduction they grant on city tours, hotel accom-
modations and admission fees is an added value to all
Swiss Travel System tickets. You can find a list of all
bonus partners on our website. Check www.swisstrav-
elsystem.ch/bonuspartner
We proudly present our new bonus partner VICTO-
RIA-JUNGFRAU COLLECTION, the exclusive Swiss
group of leading hotels with four properties in the most
popular tourist destinations in Switzerland.
New Swiss Travel System movie
Our big project for this year is the new Swiss Trav-
el System movie. Without revealing too much: Three
groups of travellers, whom we have selected in a cast-
ing competition are being filmed right now while trav-
elling on the Swiss Travel System. Look out for the new
movie. We expect it to be ready by the end of this year.
New Wilhelm Tell Express Premium service and
winter schedule
In our 2010 brochures, the scenic train «Lötsch-
November 2009 WTM - London
18 LAST PAGE
From the publisher ...
L ately, five Islamic monuments were
officially inaugurated in the Al-Darb
Al-Ahmar area of Cairo. The Al-Imam
mosque, the Al-Layth mosque, the Al-Set
Meska mosque, the Ali Labib house and
the wall zone of Youssef at the Salah El-
Din Citadel have all been undergoing res-
toration work, which cost around LE 9.5
million.
The restoration of these important his-
torical edifices is a part of the Supreme
Council of Antiquities’ dedication to pre-
serve Egypt’s Islamic heritage.
The most outstanding restoration-con-
version attraction, amid the decrepit vil-
lages of the Egyptian capital unfamiliar to
visitors, one extremely ambitious project
has been undertaken with the creation of a
vast, green open space in a once run-down
area of Cairo.
For years, tourists have long been kept
off the area by the virtually unofficial
wasteland or rubbish dump lying along-
side the derelict eastern rim of old Cairo’s
medieval city walls. From its early begin-
nings as the massive wastebasket to a gi-
gantic mountain pile of dirt, it ended up
obscuring residents’ views of the fortress
wall and pretty minarets nearby through
the years.
It has become, in a sense, irreverent
that it lies beside the walled old cemetery
known as the City Of the Dead, where
scores of homeless Cairenes have found
shelter in tombs housing urns of the more-
privileged.
Four years after unexplained shoveling,
digging and earth-moving the contractors
were doing much to the perplexity of lo-
cals, the project finally took shape. Out of
the barren 30-hectare Darassa Hills came
a lush, green park overlooking Cairo’s Is-
lamic city.
It would bring hundreds of jobs, a place
for the busy Cairenes to de-stress, open
views of the Citadel never there before;
notwithstanding, give people hope in a
hometown that had never produced them
profits.
EmanShaaban
T R AV E L W O R L D M A G A Z I N E
Publisher: Eman Shaaban
Head office: Travel World Publications Ltd- The Meridian, 4 Copthall House - Station Square, Coventry, West Midlands - UK CV1 2FL
Switzerland: Res. L’Argentine 11 / Leysin 1854 - T. +41244945994
Egypt: 7 Abdalla Taher st. Nasr City, Cairo - Egypt Tel. & Fax: +202 274 35 13 & +202 6715 794
Saudi Arabia: P.O. Box 118799 Jeddah 21312 Saudi Arabia
Development Prospects for Moscow as International Tourist Centre.
New International Programs, Advertising and Information Actions
To Develop Inbound Tourism. Tourist Infrastructure in Moscow.
M
onday, November 09, 2009, at
12:00 p.m., in the context of
WTM London 2009, a press
conference of the Chairman of the Mos-
cow Committee for Tourism Mr. Grigo-
ry Antyufeev will take place.
Moscow Committee for Tourism rep-
resents a branch body of the city’s ex-
ecutive power and is part of the Moscow
Government’s administrative structure
implementing the city’s policy on travel
industry development and regulating
matters in the sphere of tourism in Mos-
cow.
According to Mr. Antyufeev, the main
mission of the Committee’s activity con-
sists in purposeful formation of Mos-
cow’s positive image as a world tourist
centre both inland and abroad, as well
as in development of inbound and do-
mestic tourism.
Recent years have been marked by a
stable growth of interest towards Mos-
cow as a centre of leisure and business
tourism. Thus, in 2008 the number of
foreign tourist arrivals in Moscow by
water, railway and motor transport
exceeded the level of 4100 000 visitors,
which demonstrates a 2.2 % growth as
compared with the year 2007. It is esti-
mated that the flow of foreign tourists to
Moscow will exceed the expected level of
5 million visitors per year by 2010.
Today Moscow is ready to receive the
ever-growing flow of foreign guests on a
level with the highest world standards.
At present there are 227 hotels function-
ing in Moscow.
The Egyptian Travel Magazine since 1990
Tel. +966 55 686 1916
Another 32 hotels are planned to be put
into operation in 2009 with most of them
being of 3-star category.
At present, Moscow Committee for
Tourism elaborates and realizes new
tourist programmes which will make
tourists’ stay in Moscow interesting and
full of events. Some of these programmes
have already gained wide popular-
ity, like, for example, Wide Maslenitsa,
which is an old Russian holiday tradi-
tionally celebrated in late winter and
representing a real Russian carnival.
In May 2009, already for the 9th time,
the Russian capital will be hosting Mos-
cow International Travel Fair (MITF),
representing currently the largest inter-
national tourist fair in Russia.
The “Garland of Russian Estates”
programme, developed by Moscow, fo-
cuses on preservation of architectural
and landscaping ensembles as well as of
other historical places of Moscow visited
by foreign and Russian tourists during
guided tours arranged in the context of
the programme.
Chief Editor: Abouelwafa Badour
E.mail: travelworld@bluewin.ch
Travel World Magazine
A new pedestrian tourist route connect-
ing Neskuchny Sad park with the Mos-
cow-City International Business Cen-
tre has been developed in the historical
centre of Moscow with the purpose to
increase tourist and recreational oppor-
tunities of the Russian capital. The route
will embrace a considerable number of
historic and cultural monuments as well
as several parks, sports and entertain-
ment facilities.
During the last 10 years Moscow has
changed to such extent that those who
have not been in the city for a long time
would find themselves today in a com-
pletely different city.
Moscow never sleeps, the amazing Mos-
cow life keeps on going day and night.
You can start your morning in a cosy cafe,
enjoy a stroll along the embankments,
the Boulevard Ring or Vorobyovy Gory
Hills during your day, in the evening you
can go to the Bolshoi Theatre and late
at night you can immerse yourself in
the famous night life of Moscow with its
bars, restaurants and night clubs.
a.badour@yahoo.com
 From the editor’s desk

Z oheir Garannah, Minister of Tourism, is-

View for Al Wekala resort in Taba
sued a decree for the application of the
new specifications “NN” on all hotel establish-
ments all over Egypt according to the specifi-
cations and criteria established by the World
Travel Organization. The ministerial decree
granted the establishments a proper grace
period until end of December 2011 in order
to fulfill their development to comply with the
new specifications.
Regarding applications for category upgrade
presented by hotel establishments according
to the old specifications, the ministerial decree
explained that the upgrade would be granted
accordingly if the establishments wished to
upgrade under the old specifications. The de-
cree explained that the department of hotels
and tourist villages would take the necessary
measures to evaluate the level of guests’ ser-

H
E Mr. Zoheir Garannah, Egyptian Minister of Tourism, decided to
subsidize 2 domestic flights weekly between Cairo and Taba in order
to boost the tourist flow to Taba and Nuweibah in south Sinai. The cost of
these flights will be born by major investors in the area.
Governor of South Sinai said that the Minister took that decision in their
meeting during the Minister’s visit to the city of Sharm El Sheikh.
The Governor added that the flights are expected to start in the few com-
ing weeks, mentioning that this subsidization will give the area a step up in
the way to exhilarate tourism in it.
vice given that the head of the department should prepare a full and comprehensive
report of the outcome of his evaluation, to be referred to the Minister for reviewing
and approval. This report should include the evaluation result of the infrastructure,
installations, quality of service and health regulations.
He asserted that the Ministry, in cooperation with the Chamber of hotel establish-
ments, is pursuing, by the application of the new hotels specifications, the advance-
ment of hotels establishments’ standards, that is to guarantee rendering the best
services to tourists, which would eventually result in attracting more of them to
our country, specially, in view of the tough competition among tourist destinations
witnessed nowadays.
Aouelwafa Badour

M isr Company for Sound, Light and Cinema is

one of the most experienced companies in the
field of sound & light projects in the Middle East,
Africa and Asia.
We met with Eng. Essam Abdel Hadi, Chairman of the
company during his preparation for the trip to World
Travel Market in London; he gave us a brief about
the background of the company and its projects saying
that it started back in 1961 in Giza at the Pyramids
area with a fascinating program with the capacity of
3000 audiences, then in 1972, it started its second huge
project in Luxor at the Karnak temple with the capac-
ity of 1500 audiences. The project at Karanak is con-
sidered one of the largest and most outstanding sound
& light spectacles in the world. Eng. Essam added that

in 1985 the sound & light project at Phila
temples in Aswan started with the capacity
of 800 audiences. The show is about the
famous love story between Isis and Osoris.
In 2001 a new project at Ramsis temple in
Abu Simble started with the capacity of
400 audiences. This show is considered one
of the most beautiful shows in the world
because of its amazing love story between
king Ramsis and queen Nefertary.
We asked Eng. Essam about the objec-
tive of the company’s participation in the
WTM; he told us that their aim is to pro-
mote the company’s facilities and services
worldwide through meeting the interna-
tional tour operators and whoever is inter-
ested in sound & light shows. The compa-
ny will show its different and fascinating
projects on a big screen at the Egyptian
stand. About the company’s latest and fu-
ture projects in Egypt, he explained that
the company developed the sound & light
project at the Karanak Temples in Luxor
in 2008, and executed the project of light-
ing the Mohammed Ali Mosque in the Cas-
tle of Salah Eldin Al Ayubi in Cairo.
The company is carrying out 2 new sound
& light projects, the first at Edfu Temples
in Aswan and the second in Hurghada.
Both projects to be opened in 2010.