Providing key information in a no-frills format for professionals who travel to write, edit, broadcast or create images
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InnsbruckInnsbruck, the capital of the Alps offers one of the most unique short break destinations in the world. Its ideal location in the center of Europe also makes it an ideal stop in your European tour. Highlighted with the Swarovski Crystal Worlds and the Golden Roof, Innsbruck is a must see destination, which explains its 2008 Travelers Choice award. In the winter, Innsbruck boasts 9 Ski resorts, as well as international world cup competition, as befitting a two time Winter Olympic City. In 2012 Innsbruck will host its 3rd Winter Olympic Games, the 1st Youth Winter Olympics.
Visit : www.innsbruck.info. Contact : Nicholas Boekdrukker at n.boekdrukker@innsbruck.info. TerraCom CommunicationsTerraCom Communications Group is a marketing communications and public relations firm specializing in tourism, arts, and culture. Visit : www.terracomgroup.net. Contact : Nora Weber at noraw@terracongroup.net.
Grace MarketingGrace Marketing represents small independent luxury boutique properties.
Widness & Wiggins PR : Trusted AdventuresWidness & Wiggins PR now represents the active travel alliance Trusted Adventures. Established in 2005, Trusted Adventures is a partnership of: Austin-Lehman Adventures Wildland Adventures Western River Expeditions Myths and Mountains The Wayfarers ROW Adventures, and Great Alaska International Adventure Vacations. The alliance helps match active individuals, families and groups with nature and cultural adventures; walking, rafting, cycling and trekking vacations in the Americas, Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa. Visit www.trustedadventures.com. Contact Dave Wiggins at d.wiggins@comcast.net. Alerts The Alliance alerts are ongoing independent press trip opportunities. 1066 Country which comprises the area of Battle, Bexhill, Hastings, Herstmonceux, Pevensey and Rye in East Sussex, UK. Visit : www.visit1066ocountry.com. Contact : Jane Ellis at jjmellis@hastings.gov.uk. The Inn on Fifth, a luxurious, 87-room boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Naples in Southwest Florida will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit www.innonfifth.com. Contact : Kelly Grass Prieto at kelly@hayworthcreative.com. Great Hotels Organisation, representing over 200 of the world’s finest hotels and resorts worldwide through Great Hotels of the World and Special Hotels of the World will be pleased to consider offering press trip accommodation to Alliance members. Visit www.ghotw.com. Contact: Brooke Jester bjester@ghorg.com. Visit Chester and Cheshire and Visit Lincoln and Lincolnshire will be delighted to host Alliance members with a commission. Visit : www.visitchester.com and www.lincoln.gov.uk. Contact : Oliver Bennett at oliverbennett@blueyonder.co.uk. Swiss-Belhotel International, which manages hotels, resorts and residences throughout the Asia Pacific, Southeast Asia, China and The Middle East regions, will be pleased to consider offering press trip accommodation to Alliance members. Visit : www.swiss-belhotel.com. Contact : Ayla Hass at aylahaas@swiss-belhotel.com. Pembrokeshire, South West Wales will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.pembrokeshire.com. Contact: Pat Edgar PRMatters@dsl.pipex.com The Rutland Hotel, Edinburgh, will be delighted to invite Alliance members to review this botique hotel. Visit www.therutlandhotel.com. Contact Yvonne or Fiona at info@nicheworks.co.uk. The Galapagos Islands : Quasar Expeditions would like to invite Alliance members to cover trips aboard the M/Y Grace, its vintage yacht in the Galapagos Islands. Visit : www.galapagosexpeditions.com/gracepresskit.php. Contact : Paul Schicke at paul@quasarex.com. Focus Hotels invite Alliance members to review their three and four-star properties located in key destinations across the UK. Visit : www.focushotels.co.uk. Contact : Eleanore Longley at eleanore@bacall.net. Champagne-Ardenne Tourisme, four departments boasting historic chateaux, walking & cycling routes, a variety of sports and superb natural scenery and of Champagne, will be pleased to consider press visits to Alliance members with a commission. Visit : www.tourisme-champagne-ardenne.comContact: Doug Goodman at doug@douggoodmanpr.com or on 0208 614 1448. The 5* Blythswood Square Hotel, Glasgow, formerly headquarters to the Royal Scottish Automobile Club, has been redeveloped by the Town House Collection Visit www.blythswoodsquare.com or www.thetownhousecollection.com. Contact: Jo Murphy at Jo@thespaprcompany.com. Aspects Holidays specialises in providing self-catering accommodation, from luxury apartments to traditional fisherman’s cottages in and around St Ives and the West Cornwall area of the UK. Aspects will be pleased to consider press visits to Alliance members with a commission. Visit www.aspects-holidays.co.uk. Contact : Karen Baker at karen@mercury-pr.co.uk. The Inn at Lathones, Scotland's only 4 star inn, is delighted to consider press trips from Alliance members. The 17th-century listed building near St Andrews is one of Scotland’s oldest coaching inns and boasts 21 recently refurbished external rooms/suites, an award-winning restaurant, an intimate stone-walled bar and converted stables that host regular music events. For more information visit: www.theinn.co.uk Contact: Lee MacGregor at lee@leemacgregorpr.com Yapham Cottages will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.yaphamcottages.co.uk. Contact: Karen Outred at ko@freelancepr.fsnet.co.uk. The Discovery Collection, independent specialist in boutique breaks to North Cyprus, Turkey, Puglia, Sicily, Malta and Gozo, will be happy to consider offering press visits to Alliance members. A varied programme includes beach and city breaks, twin-centre stays, walking holidays and special interest tours. Visit : www.thediscoverycollection.com. Contact: Jill Guest at jill@ocean-advertising.co.uk or on 020 7436 Frontier Travel organise tailor-made holidays to Canada in both the Summer (www.frontier-canada.co.uk) and the Winter (www.frontier-ski.co.uk). The company will consider offering individuals press trips for Alliance members. Contact: Dave Ashmore at dave@frontier-travel.co.uk or on +44 (0) 20 8404 2447. Sail Lofts St Ives, a group of 12 luxury holiday apartments just metres from Porthmeor Beach, will be pleased to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members with a commission. Visit: www.saillofts.co.uk. Contact: Cathryn Hicks at cathryn@douggoodmanpr.com. The Alfajiri Villas and Galdessa Camp would like to invite Alliance members to stay at Alfajiri Villas (www.alfajirivillas.com) or Galdessa Camp (www.galdessa.com).Visit : www.FazendinPortfolio.com. Contact Sarah Fazendin at sarah@fazendinportfolio.com. The Peat Inn and 5-star restaurant in St.Andrews, Scotland will provide Alliance members able to review the Inn will receive complimentary dinner, bed and breakfast including guest. Visit : http://www.thepeatinn.co.uk. Contact : Megan Davidson at megan@crimsonedge.co.uk. The Isles of Scilly will be delighted to consider offering travel and accommodation to Alliance members on assignment, with a commission or who are able to obtain one. Visit: http://www.simplyscilly.co.uk. Contact: Karen Baker at karen@mercury-pr.co.uk. The Park Hyatt Istanbul-Maçka Palas, Turkey will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.hyatt.com. Kathryn Peel on +44 (0) 207 385 7090 or at Kathryn@grifcopr.com. Helpful Holidays, UK will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.helpfulholidays.com. Contact: Pat Edgar at PRMatters@dsl.pipex.com. Jet2.com and Jet2holidays.com will be happy to consider offering flights and holiday opportunities. Contact: Louise Woodward at louise@lucre.co.uk or on +44 (0) 113 243 1117 . Wilderness Journeys will be delighted to consider offering press trip facilities to Alliance members. Visit : www.wildernessjourneys.com. Contact: Stevie Christie at stevie@wildernessjourneys.com or on +44 (0)131 625 6635. Divi Resorts, the Caribbean will be happy to consider accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.diviresorts.com. Contact: Jacqueline Burton at jburton@fwv-us.com. Charming Hotel Madeira will be pleased to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.charminghotelsmadeira.com. Contact: Cathryn Hicks at cathryn@douggoodmanpr.com. Sea Kayak Adventures explore Baja and Canada's newest marine parks and prolific whale watching destinations by sea kayak with Sea Kayak Adventures. Sea Kayak Adventures will be happy to provide press trip facilities to Alliance members. Visit: www.seakayakadventures.com. Contact: Nancy Mertz at info@seakayakadventures.com. The View Hotel, Monument Valley, Arizona, USA, which opened in September 2008, is situated on the Navajo Tribal Park, on the border of Arizona and Utah. The View Hotel will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.MonumentValleyView.com. Contact: Mike Finney at mike@azcomgroup.com. The Menzies Welcombe Hotel Spa & Golf Club, Stratford-upon-Avon will be delighted to offer dinner, bed and breakfast at this country house hotel to Alliance members able to review the property. Visit : www.menzieshotels.co.uk. Contact : Tanya Aspinwall at tanya@marketingaloud.co.uk Bike The Whites is New England’s inn-to-inn biking tour experience, which offers customized route planning for cyclists of all abilities, the scenic beauty of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Bike the Whites will be delighted to hear from Alliance members. Visit: www.bikethewhites.com. Contact: Marti Mayne at Marti.Mayne@BedandBreakfast.com. Rosen Hotels will be delighted to host Alliance members who will be in the Orlando area, at the new 1500-room, 14-story Rosen Shingle Creek. Visit www.rosenshinglecreek.com. Contact Mary Deatrick at mdeatrick@cfl.rr.com. The Peace and Plenty, Bahamas will be delighted to provide accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.peaceandplenty.com. Contact: Hazel Heyer at hazel_heyer@hotmail.com. The Grand Hyatt San Antonio, Texas is a 1003-room, 37-storey luxury hotel, which has just opened in the bustling heart of the Alamo City. The Grand Hyatt San Antonio, Texas will be happy to consider providing accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.hyatt.com. Contact: Alison Wood at Alison@grifcopr.com or on +44 (0)207 385 7090. Ranch Rider stays are steeped in tradition, allowing travellers to sample an authentic western experience.Ranch Rider will be pleased to consider press trip facilities to Alliance members. Visit: www.ranchrider.com. Contact: Siobhan at siobhan@tionlondon.co.uk. Alliance members looking to take advantage of any of the following opportunities should be on assignment, with a commission or able to obtain one. Travel products and servicesThe following providers of travel products and services will be happy to provide these to Alliance members in return for a credit or review. Magellan's Magellan's, one of the worlds most trusted source of travel supplies, provides a superior selection of travel products to make travel more comfortable, safe, and rewarding. The Magellan’s product range offers hundreds of useful and appreciated products and provides travelers with : a single source of state-of-the-art, quality travel products up-to-the-minute and well-researched information to meet the needs of all travelers, and an exceptional customer experience Visit : www.magellans.co.uk. Contact : Lynn Staneff at lstaneff@magellans.co.uk. Dollar rent a car Dollar rent a car will be delighted to offer a discount to Alliance members on car rental in the USA in return for a credit. Discounts will be agreed on a case-by-case basis. Visit : www.dollar.co.uk, Contact : Cheryl Richardson at Cheryl.Richardson@DTAG.com or on + 44 (0) 20 7391 4622 The Leisure Pass The Leisure Pass Group creates all-inclusive ‘smart’ passes, for cities around the world. The purchase price covers entrance to all attractions, fast-track entry at a number of attractions, and gives discounts at shops, theatres, service providers and restaurants. Launching with The London Pass, the programme also includes York, New York, Paris and Philadelphia. Alliance members can get review passes for the cities covered. Visit : www.leisurepassgroup.com. Contact :Andrew Campbell-edie at Andrew.Campbell-edie@Sirenpr.co.uk. Travel guidesThe following travel publishers will be happy to provide review copies to Alliance members. Anova Bookswww.anovabooks.com. Helen Ponting at hponting@anovabooks.co Berlitzwww.berlitzpublishing.com. Julia Spence at julia.spence@ukonline.co.ukBradt Travelwww.bradtguides.com. Debbie Hunter at debbie.hunter@bradtguides.com Brit's Guidewww.foulsham.com. Margaret Lashbrook at margaret.lashbrook@lineone.net or Sue Wilkins at wilkins@foulsham.com. Cicerone Visit : www.cicerone.co.uk. Contact : Sarah Spencer at sarah@cicerone.co.uk Eland Publishing www.travelbooks.co.uk. Barnaby Rogerson at barnaby@travelbooks.co.uk.
www.fisherstravelsos.com. Furgan Syed at furqan.syed@fisherstravelsos.com. Global Travel Publishers www.africa-adventure.com. Kate Bandos at kate@ksbpromotions.com. Globetrotters LogBookwww.globetrotterslogbook.com. Giedo Claes at giedo@globetrotterslogbook.com Inn House Publishingwww.innhousepublishing.com. Kathryn McWhirter at kathrynmcwhirter@btopenworld.com. Insightwww.insightguides.com. Julia Spence at Julia.spence@ukonline.co.uk. In your pocket guideswww.inyourpocket.com. Craig Turp at editor@inyourpocket.com. Jane’s Smart Art Guideswww.JanesSmartArt.com. Jane McIntosh at MJM@JanesSmartArt.com Jonglez Publishing www.jonglezpublishing.com. Contact : Thomas Jonglez at info@jonglezpublishing.com.
Kuperard Publisherswww.kuperard.co.uk. Contact : Geoffrey Chesler at geoffreychesler@btinternet.com. Lonely Planetwww.lonelyplanet.com. Europe, Middle East and Africa: Heather Carswell at heather.carswell@lonelyplanet.co.uk, North and Central America: Rand Freedman at rana.freedman@lonelyplanet.com.au; Australia, New Zealand and Asia: Brynony Cole at bryony.cole@lonelyplanet.com.au. Morris Communicationswww.themilepost.com. Contact Kate Bandos at kate@ksbpromotions.com. Odyssey Books & Guides www.odysseypublications.com. Contact : Caroline Eden at caroline@odysseypublications.com Oxygen Books city-litwww.oxygenbooks.co.uk Malcom Burgess at malcolm@oxygenbooks.co.uk Rough Guideswww.roughguides.com. Contact : press@roughguides. Turnleftwww.turnleftguides.comContact: Nick Buteau at nick@turnleftguides.com The International Travel Writers Alliance and AllWays The International Travel Writers Alliance The Alliance
The Alliance provides information and support to over 7,400 professionals who travel to write, broadcast or create images. You can see the caliber of Alliance members by visiting www.itwalliance.com and clicking on Members/member profiles. This section is updated weekly. Alliance services in brief
Through the Alliance we can reach and influence professional travel writers, editors, photographers and broadcasters through : the bi-monthly Alliance bulletin Alliance alerts providing information and images to Alliance members on a specific destination or travel pursuit Destination dossiers, providing detailed media briefings to members organising Destination networking events (linked to the destination dossiers) planning and managing individual and group press trips, and staging professional development workshops AllWays
AllWays (www.allwaystraveller.com) is the new consumer travel service from the Alliance. The AllWays package AllWays will comprises : AllWays traveller : the regular and special issue e-newsletters and updates for AllWays travellers AllWays online : a web archive of features, images and audio/visual streaming from the Alliance's professional writers, editors, broadcasters and photographers AllWays more : a series of mini-guides providing key information in a no frills format for destinations or travel pursuits, and the AllWays travel club : offering a wide range of travel discounts and incentives to AllWays travellers AllWays magazine : launches as phase two of the AllWays development, will be the quality end magazine for AllWays travellers, and AllWays care : will focus on travel opportunities where there is an emphasis on social, environmental and economic responsibility. The International Travel Writers Alliance bulletinIssue 66 : mid-January 2010Providing key information on a no-frills format for who travel to write, edit, broadcast or create images. The media contacts listed will always be pleased to hear from Alliance members. When requesting ‘press trip’ facilities members should be on assignment, with a commission or able to obtain one. Editor: Ashley Gibbins : Ashley@itwalliance.com or 0776 419 8286 Archive issues : www.itwalliance.com. In this issue1 : Opportunities Group and individual press trip opportunities 2 : News News of interest to travel writers, editors, broadcasters and photographers 3 : LeadsTravel and tourism industry leads and initiatives 4 : The year ahead Events and celebrations of interest sponsored by The Year Ahead 5 : Reasons to write about … Information on destinations and travel pursuits from Alliance partners and agencies 6 : A place to stayOpportunities for Alliance members to review new and unusual accommodation 7 : Working with Alliance members Travel partners and agencies keen to work with Alliance members. Ongoing information8: Alerts Bullet point information on destinations, accommodation and travel pursuits that offer ongoing press trip opportunities to travel writers, editors, broadcasters and photographers 9 : Travel products and services Providers of travel products or services happy to provide Alliance members with review items. 10: Travel guides Travel publishers that are happy to provide Alliance members with review copies 11 : The International Travel Writers Alliance and AllWays Registering with the Alliance To register with the International Travel Writers Alliance visit : www.itwalliance.com, click to enter the site and click on Register as a member/editor/partner or agency. We do no pass on contact details of our members without their direct permission Opportunities Alliance members looking to take advantage of any of the following opportunities should be on assignment, with a commission or able to obtain one. 1066 Country, UK1066 Country is comprised of the area of Battle, Bexhill, Hastings, Herstmonceux, Pevensey and Rye in East Sussex, UK Areas of outstanding natural beauty such as the High Weald and Hastings Country Park,(also a Site of Special Scientific Interest), present perfect walking opportunities. Over forty-five attractions are easily accessible and represent the main themes of history, maritime heritage, gardens, the arts, festivals and local produce. Many of our annual events attract huge audiences from all over the UK and near Europe and make perfect 'hooks' for travel pieces. 1066 Country is happy to host press visits. Visit : www.visit1066ocountry.com. Contact : Jane Ellis at jjmellis@hastings.gov.uk. Marketing Africa by HONOUR WAY Honour Way is a global marketing company whose clients include privately owned and lodges including : Ker & Downey Botswana Jaci's Lodges in the Madikwe Tongabezi Lodge Sausage Tree Camp and Norman Carr Safaris in Zambia Kaya Mawa in Malawi, and The Uganda Safari Company and Wildplaces. Marketing Africa by HONOUR WAY will be delighted to consider providing press trip facilities to Alliance members. Visit : www.honourway.com. Contact : Carolyn Price at info@honourway.com. Kangaroo Island, South Australia Kangaroo Island, South Australia provides natural habitats for the widest range of free-roaming native animals in Australia including sea lions, fur seals, kangaroos, penguins, wallabies, koalas, echidnas, platypus, goannas, possums, bandicoots and whales and 255 bird species. Exceptional Kangaroo Island offers guided themed tours and tailor-make special interest experiences - bird watching, mammal spotting, photography, historic sites, nocturnal wildlife watching, wildflower watching and geological expeditions. Visit : www.exceptionalkangarooisland.com and www.southaustralia.com. To discuss media trips contact : Jovanka Ristich at jovanka@independentpr.co.uk The Hôtel de la Paix, Siem Reap, Cambodia The five-star Hôtel de la Paix is a contemporary hotel in Siem Reap, Cambodia Siem Reap is a province located in northwestern Cambodia, on the shores of the Tonle Sap lake. It is a major tourist hub. The hotel is located in central Siem Reap close to the colourful markets and the vibrant night life of the bustling community and a ten minute drive from the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat. Visit : www.hoteldelapaixangkor.com. For press trip opportunities contact : Nat Frogley at nat@bacall.net. West Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Based in Penzance in Cornwall, Mercury PR represents has range of travel and tourism-related clients including The Isles of Scilly, Aspects Holidays, West Country Cottage Holidays and the newly acquired St Mary's Hall Hotel on the Isles of Scilly. Isles of Scilly - Voted one of the top gloabl destinations to visit in 2010 by Frommer's (published in December) the Isles of Scilly lie just just 28 miles off the southwest tip of Britain, the UK's only island archipelago and the UK's most Westerly holiday destination. The islands offer white sandy beaches, natural landscape to explore and a fascinating history. The following will be happy to offer press trip opportunities to Alliance members : Aspects Holidays - based St Ives with its cobbled streets, beaches, boutique shops and restaurants, St Ives has developed into a year-round destination. Aspects holidays has over 200 holiday properties in and around St Ives. West Cornwall Cottage Holidays – provide a range of self catering properties including, cottages, barn conversions and apartments in the West of Cornwall including Newlyn, Mousehole, Lamorna, Sennen Cove and Porthcurno. St Mary's Hall Hotel - The St Mary's Hall Hotel, Isles of Scilly, is undergoing a major refurbishment and relaunch in early 2010 Contact : Karen Baker at karen@mercury-pr.co.uk. Lonely Planet New and updated publications from Lonely Planet include Montreal and Quebec city (new); New Orleans (new) and Sydney (9th ed). Mini-guides include : Mini Guides – Include West End, London; Marrakech, Morocco; Cairngorms, Scotland; and Tenerife and the Canary Islands. Lonely Planet will provide Alliance members with review copies of its publications. Visit : www.lonelyplanet.co.uk. Contact : Vicky Bull at Vicky.Bull@lonelyplanet.co.uk. The Chic Collection The Chic Collection of hotels will be delighted to consider press trip requests to its ‘hot spot’ hotels which include : KenyaPost-election riots brought down Kenya’s tourism industry in 2008, but the country is working hard to bring back visitors. Alfajiri Villas, are three private villas with a beach location. Austrlia The Blue boutique hotel is housed in a historic wharf building in Woolloomooloo bay. The Bamurru Plains camp has nine safari bungalows set in an African-style camp with no phones or TV’s. Mexico In 2009 the US dollar grew incredibly strong against the Mexican peso and then the swine flu pandemic hit the country’s tourism. The Goldsmith’s, Cuixmala is located in a private nature reserve, where jaguars and zebras can be seen – there are twelve luxury villas and casitas set in tropical gardens. Hacienda de San Antonio is a working ranch with 22 suites and three grand suites located at the foot of the Colima volcano. India Several luxury boutique hotels are opening in Rajasthan, India. In Jaisalmer, the desert camp The Serai, has 21 tented suites and a spa, this is a true escape. In Delhi the Aman New Delhi has 39 rooms, each with a private plunge pool. Local artisan decor is throughout and includes handmade rugs, Khareda stone, rich dark timber panels making it the place to stay in the city. Shanghai 2010 is the the year of the Shanghai Expo from May – October. The Pudi Boutique Hotel is located close to Fuxing Park and makes a base for travellers looking for an unusual city break. Hong Kong The newly opened Upper House in Pacific Place, Hong Kong has a sky lounge, an outdoor lawn on the 6th floor and a 14 metre open kitchen. Istanbul Istanbul is the ‘European Capital of Culture’ in 2010. Les Ottomans is located on the banks of the Bosporus. Visit : www.chiccollection.travel. Contact : Caroline Eden at caroline@chiccollection.travel. North Devon+, UK North Devon+, the organisation responsible for the regeneration and tourism development across North Devon and Exmoor, in UK’s west country is offering press trip facilities to Alliance members. Facilities would include accommodation and an itinerary of activities to suit the story requirements. North Devon+ would also offer free professional photography to accompany stories and a personal guide, if required. Visit : www.northdevonplus.com. Contact : Anne Tattersall at anne_communicate@hotmail.com. Night time venues in Vienna Palais Palffy, Vienna's newest nightclub has a 12m chandelier made up of 80,000 Swarovski crystals and is located in a 14th C palace in the heart of the old town where Mozart is reputed to have premiered The Marriage of Figaro. The club is located on two floors of the building, which is next door to the Spanish Riding School and opposite the Hofburg Palace, with a bar housing 700 spirits on one floor and a dance floor above. Palais Eschenbach was built in 1872 and, today, its elegant rooms provide the setting for concerts, parties and club nights. Palais Auersperg, built in 1708 by leading Baroque architects Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt and Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, has opened for parties and celebrations. Visit : www.palffyclub.at, www.palais-eschenbach.at and www.auersperg.com. For information on press trips contact : Mary Stuart-Miller at mary@mstuart-miller.co.uk. The Ryder Cup The Ryder Cup will be staged at The Celtic Manor Resort in the Usk Valley, South Wales between 1 and 3 October 2010. The Celtic Manor Resort is set in 1,400 acres of panoramic parkland at the gateway to Wales. The resort includes two hotels – a luxury hotel and the historic 19th century Manor House - two spas and health clubs, a shooting school, fishing, tennis, mountain biking, walking and five restaurants. Visit: www.celtic-manor.com. For all media enquiries, including golf, spa, business or hotel reviews contact Lois Kettlewell at celticmanor@fourcommunications.com. For ongoing opportunities for Alliance members see Alerts (below) or visit : www.internationaltravelwritersalliance.com. News Shangri-La's Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives Shangri-La's Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives, which launched in 2009, has appointed Brighter PR to handle the ongoing PR. Visit : www.shangri-la.com. Contact : Debbie Flynn at debbie.flynn@brightergroup.com. Planeterra, Peru A five-year initiative to assist children of Cuzco, Peru has seen Planeterra purchasing a large house to serve as a day-time drop-in center with staff. Planeterra, founded by Gap Adventures, is a global non-profit dedicated to sustainable community development through travel. Visit : www.planererra.org. Contact : Richard G. Edwards at richard@planeterra.org. The Falkland Islands The Falkland Islands Tourist Board is inviting visitors to the Falklands to send in their best snaps to a new online photography competition - Falklands Exposed. Visit : www.falklandislands.com/exposed. Contact : Tryphena Greenwood falklandstourism@keenepa.co.uk. The Palmdale Hotel, California The Palmdale Hotel is located at 300 West Palmdale Boulevard in Palmdale, California. Set amid the high desert of the Antelope Valley. Visit www.ThePalmdaleHotel.com. Contact : Sarah Biggerstaff at sarahb@richmondpr.com. The Galapagos Ecoventura, the small ship cruising company, has introduced a reduced calorie, healthy dining menu built around natural and organic foods purchased locally from island farmers. Visit : www.ecoventura.com. Contact : Doris Welsh at doris@galapagosnetwork.com. Leads Prestige Holidays Prestige Holidays operates a selection of holidays to Canada and Alaska including city breaks and self drive itineraries, wildlife tours wilderness lodges and Alaska cruises. Visit : www.prestigeholidays.co.uk. Contact : Liz Blakeborough at liz@blakeborough.com. Emirates Emirates has introduced a fourth daily service to Bangkok, a third daily service to Sydney, two additional flights to Manila and one additional service to Jakarta. Visit : www.emirates.com. Contact : Leisa Workman at LWorkman@Bell-Pottinger.co.uk. Karpov’s chess school, Rabat, Morocco Former Russian chess champion Anatoly Karpov (world champion 1975–84) has opened a chess school in Rabat, Morocco Visit : www.realmorocco.com. Contact : Sarah Belcher at S.Belcher@travelpr.co.uk. Wineries and vineyards in Arizona The Verde Valley is a stunning region of Arizona and an exceptional place to grow the grapes that make Arizona wine. In 2009 the local vineyards produced a record harvest. The Verde Valley Wine Trail links the communities of Cottonwood, Sedona, Camp Verde, and Jerome, Visit : www.vvWineTrail.com. Contact : info@vvwinetrail.com Canoeing in Tanzania The new aquatic Selous safaris with Expert Africa are canoeing safaris in Tanzania’s Selous National Park. Visit : www.expertafrica.com. Contact : Sarah Belcher at S.Belcher@travelpr.co.uk. Walking and trekking Exodus, the UK’s leading adventure holiday operator has 30 walking and trekking itineraries for the 2010-2011 season. These include a stroll around the charming villages of the Pyrenees, a trip to Italy’s volcanic islands, a wildlife adventure through Madagascar or, for the most intrepid trekker, a challenging climb on one of the world’s highest peaks. Visit www.exodus.co.uk. Contact : Lois Kettlewell at Lois.Kettlewell@fourcommunications.com. Sustainable travel guide to Western Australia responsibletravel.com has teamed up with Tourism Western Australia to create a sustainable travel guide to Western Australia. The guide includes travel secrets from locals, suggested itineraries plus tours and accommodation selected for their commitment to conservation and local communities. Visit : press@responsibletravel.com. Contact : Elen Thomas at ethomas@twa.australia.com. Learn horse-riding in Umbria, Central Italy La Casella is a 200-acre, luxury country hotel estate in Umbria is also a horse-riding centre. Basic beginners’ courses use 40 gentle horses and once accomplished, there are sunset rides culminating with candlelit dinners in the forest. Away from the horses, there are two pools, a tennis court, a small spa and bikes for hire. Visit : www.realholidays.co.uk. Contact : Rob Looker at R.Looker@travelpr.co.uk. The year ahead Information for professional travel writes, editors, broadcasters and photographers on events and celebrations worldwide. Sponsored by The Year Ahead. Trinidad Carnival, Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago 15 February 2010 to 16 February 2010 (annual) Largest carnival in the Caribbean. Features parades, mas (costume) camps and calypso tents, as well as the Panorama Steel Band Competition. Visit : www.visitTNT.com. Contact : trinbago@ihml.com New Orleans Mardi Gras, Louisiana, USA 16 February 2010 (annual, 154th) Hundreds of parades, floats and marching bands converge on New Orleans and one million visitors. Visit : www.mardigrasneworleans.com. Contact : Christine DeCuir at cdecuir@neworleanscvb.com. Jameson Dublin International Film Festival, Dublin, Republic of Ireland 18 February 2010 to 28 February 2010 (annual, 8th) Non-competitive showcase of films includes premieres and special screenings. Filmmakers and actors introduce and discuss their films. Visit : www.jdiff.com. Contact : Sarah Smyth at sarah@jdiff.com. Montreal High Lights Festival, Montréal, Quebec, Canada 18 February 2010 to 28 February 2010 (annual, 11th) Three free outdoor events: Performing Arts, Wine And Dine Experience and Hydro-Quebec Celebration. Focuses on a different region of the world and US city each year. 500,000 visitors. Visit : www.montrealhighlights.com and www.montrealenlumiere.com. Contact : Elizabeth Pelletier at elizabeth.pelletier@equipespectra.ca. Chinese New Year - London celebrations, London, UK 21 February 2010 (annual) Biggest festival of the year for Chinese communities in the capital. The Year Of The Tiger is welcomed in with dancing dragons, music, acrobatics, a parade and a fireworks display. Visit : www.chinatownchinese.co.uk. Contact : Ben McKnight at ben.mcknight@london.gov.uk. Fair Day, Victoria Park, Sydney, Australia 21 February 2010 (annual) Marks the launch of Sydney's Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras (February 21 to March 6). Features an awards ceremony, music, dancers, food stalls, a shopping area, Kidzone and Artszone. Festival events include Fair Day (February 21), the parade (February 27), Harbour '10 (February 28) and the party (March 6). The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is one of the biggest Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras in the world, attracting international guests, participants and a great deal of media attention. Theme is History Of The World. Visit : www.mardigras.org.au. Contact : Anna McInerney at anna.mcinerney@mardigras.org.au. Fantasporto - Oporto International Film Festival, Rivoli Theatre, Oporto, Portugal 22 February 2010 to 07 March 2010 (annual, 30th) Focuses on new cinema, sci-fi and fantasy films. Recognised as the biggest event of its type in Portugal and one of the most important in Europe. Features a New Directors competition, art exhibitions, theatre plays, puppet presentations, lectures and comics and amateur film-making. Visit : www.fantasporto.com. Contact : Rua Anibal Cunha at info@fantasporto.com. Cinequest Film Festival, San José, California, USA 23 February 2010 to 07 March 2010 (annual, 20th) Focuses on maverick films, filmmakers and technology. Visit : www.cinequest.org. Contact : Halfdan Hussey at maverick@cinequest.org. Qantas Australian Tourism Awards (QATA), Hotel Grand Chancellor, Hobart, Tasmania 26 February 2010 (annual) Recognises and promotes excellence in tourism. The awards are seen as the pinnacle of achievement in Australia. 25 categories exist, including Major Tourist Attractions, Festivals And Events, Meetings And Business Tourism, Adventure Tourism and Backpacker Accommodation. Visit : www.tourismalliance.org/tourismalliance/TourismAwards.html. Contact : admin@tourismalliance.org. Bath Literature Festival, Guildhall and various venues, Bath, UK 27 February 2010 to 07 March 2010 (annual, 16th) Features author readings and talks, workshops and literary-related activities. Visit : www.bathlitfest.org.uk. Contact : Juliet Simpson at juliet.simpson@bathfestivals.org.uk. Oxford International Women's Festival, Oxford, UK 28 February 2010 to 14 March 2010 (annual, 21st) Celebrates women's achievements and creativity in the arts, sciences, workplace and home. Visit : www.oxfordwomen.co.uk. Contact : Christine Eady at christine.eadywat@tiscali.co.uk. Winter Party Festival, Miami Beach, Miami, Florida, USA 03 March 2010 to 08 March 2010 (annual) Over 25 events comprising music, fashion, art and performance take place to benefit the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) community. Visit : www.winterparty.com. Contact : David Orchard atdorchard@ideazeit.com. Anyone Can Whistle, Jermyn Street Theatre, London, UK 10 March 2010 to 17 April 2010 Off-West End revival of Stephen Sondheim production to mark the composer/lyricist's 80th birthday. Visit : www.jermynstreettheatre.co.uk. Contact : Chantelle Staynings at info@primaveraproductions.com. St Patrick's Day Festival - Dublin, Republic of Ireland 12 March 2010 to 17 March 2010 (annual, 15th) Ireland's national saint is celebrated with music, fireworks, street theatre and dance, visual art and the St Patrick's Day Parade. Theme in 2009 was Sky's The Limit. Over one million visitors attend. Visit : www.stpatricksfestival.ie. Contact : Susan Kirby at susankirby@stpatricksfestival.ie. Lighting Hadrian's Wall, Cumbria, UK 13 March 2010 (4th) Buildings are lit up by leading visual and musical talents. Features guided walks and pyrotechnics. Visit : www.hadrians-wall.org. Contact : Paul Gardener at paul@ospreycommunications.co.uk. Little World Festival, Meribel, France 13 March 2010 to 19 March 2010 (1st) Week-long festival incorporating live music and skiing. Visit : www.littleworldfestival.com. Contact : David Cox at david.cox@outside-org.co.uk. Montreal St Patrick's Day Parade, Quebec, Canada 14 March 2010 (annual, 186th) Celebration of St Patrick's Day (March 17), features floats and marching bands. 500,000 attend. Visit : www.montrealirishparade.com. Contact : publicrelations@montrealirishparade.com. St Patrick's Day Festival, Trafalgar Square, London, UK 14 March 2010 (annual) London celebrates Ireland's national day (March 17) with a free festival, featuring live traditional and contemporary Irish music, dance, walks, film screenings and a parade. Visit : www.london.gov.uk. Contact : Daire Basra at daire.basra@london.gov.uk. For more information on The Year Ahead visit : www.yearahead.co.uk. Contact : Robert Reeves at Robert.Reeves@profilegroup.co.uk. Reasons to write about Museum and art gallery exhibition openings On the Move: Visualising MotionEstorick : Collection of Modern Italian Art, London 13 January to 18 April From the Gothic Tradition to the Early Renaissance : Moretti Fine Art, New York, USA 19 January to 12 February Michelangelo’s Dream : The Courtauld Gallery, Somerset House, London 18 February to 16 May Gerhard Richter and the disappearance of the image in contemporary art : Centre for Contemporary Culture Strozzina (CCCS) at the Palazzo Strozzi, Florence, Italy 20 February to 25 April De Chirico, Max Ernst, Magritte and Balthus : A look into the invisible, Palazzo Strozzi, Florence, Italy26 February to 18 July Matisse to Malevich: Pioneers of modern Art from the Hermitage : Hermitage Amsterdam 6 March to 18 September Colnaghi Ltd at The European Fine Art Fair (TEFAF) : Maastricht, Netherlands 12 March to 21 March John Eskenazi annual exhibition : Adam Williams Fine Art Ltd, New York 15 March to 28 March Trees, Rocks, Mist and Mountains by Li Huayi Eskenazi : Ukrainian Institute, New York 25 March to 3 April Another Country: London Painters in dialogue with Modern Italian Art, Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art, London 28 April to 20 June A Collector’s Menagerie: Animal Sculpture from the Ancient World Rupert Wace Ancient Art at the Sladmore Gallery, London 12 May to 29 May As Soon As Possible - Time and Social Acceleration : Centre for Contemporary Culture Strozzina (CCCS) at the Palazzo Strozzi, Florence, Italy 14 May to 18 July The Courtauld Collects: Twenty Years of AcquisitionsThe Courtauld Gallery, Somerset House, London 17 June to 19 September Naples: Photographs by Johnnie Shand KyddEstorick Collection of Modern Italian Art, London 30 June to 12 September Master Paintings Week : various galleries in London 3 July to 9 July Bronzino - Artist and Poet : Palazzo Strozzi, Florence, Italy 21 September to 19 December Opposing the Duce : Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art, London September 2010 to 23 January 2011 Cézanne’s Card Players : The Courtauld Gallery, Somerset House, London 21 October 2010 to January 2011 For more information on any of the above contact : Annie Roper at annie@suebond.co.uk. The Kanin-Canin ski centre, Slovenia/Italy Kanin, Slovenia's highest ski resort, has joined forces with the Italian ski resort Sella Nevea to form the first international ski centre in the region, under the name Kanin-Canin. The two ski resorts will be by new cable cars and pistes, with a single ski pass valid for all facilities. The centre, which on the Slovenian side reaches a height of 2,300 metres, while on the Italian side it descends into the valley to 1,100 metres, will offer skiing until late spring. Visit : www.boveckanin.si. Contact : Livija Kovac at livija.kovac@slovena.info. The Bloody Mary St. Regis Hotels & Resorts is celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Bloody Mary, which was invented in the King Cole Bar at the St. Regis landmark hotel in New York in 1934 by bartender Fernand Petiot. Serge Obolensky, a well known man about town whose penchant for vodka was in keeping with his Russian background, asked Petiot to make the vodka cocktail he had in Paris. The formula was spiced up with salt, pepper, lemon and Worcestershire Sauce, first called the Red Snapper and later renamed the Bloody Mary. St. Regis destinations worldwide offer a special World Collection Bloody Mary menu that combines local flavours with Mr. Petiot’s original recipe. Visit : www.stregis.com. Contact : Rachel Witham at Rachel.Witham@starwoodhotels.com. South African Horse Safari The Leap is offering a new six and 10 week South African Horse Safari for 2010. The safari is at Kwa Madwala, a private 4000 hectare game reserve situated between Swaziland and Mozambique just South of the Kruger National Park. In addition to riding, those taking part will help the park rangers and will also volunteer in the local Swazi community. Other activities include reserve management, construction of viewing decks, assistance with the elephant back safari programme including riding the elephants and looking after their diet, enclosures and general welfare, participating in a course covering the basic skills of 4 x 4 driving and microlighting over the reserve. Visit : www.theleap.co.uk. Contact : Katie Buik at katie@kpr.uk.com. Bear watching in Slovenia New bear watching excursions available from specialist tour operator, Just Slovenia, give visitors the opportunity to go in search of brown bears in the south of the country. Slovenia is a country in Central Europe touching the Alps and bordering the Mediterranean. The capital and largest city of Slovenia is Ljubljana.
Together with a local guide, guests travel by 4 x 4 vehicle to an observation deck in the heart of a densely forested karst plateau in the Sneznik area, in order to see the bears in their natural habitat. Slovenia has a stable population of around 600 brown bears, and there's a very good chance of seeing them between April and August. Other attractions in the area include the coastal town of Piran, the Lipica Stud Farm, home to the Lipizzaner horses, and the UNESCO Listed Skocjan Caves. Visit www.justslovenia.co.uk. contact: Karen Outred at ko@freelancepr.fsnet.co.uk. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, USA Nearly five months after more than 165,000 soldiers retreated from the streets and fields around Gettysburg, the town of just 2,400 residents assembled “to dedicate a portion of that field as a final resting place,” known as Soldiers’ National Cemetery. Of the thousands who came to Gettysburg on 19 November 1863 was President Abraham Lincoln whose address of just 10 sentences, 272 words, turned the town from a place of tragedy into one of hope that the nation would fulfill the dreams of their forefathers. the Gettysburg Address remains one of the most famous in world history. The Gettysburg Address “Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation, so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this. But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate...we can not consecrate...we can not hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work, which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government: of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.” Visit : www.gettysburg.travel. Contact : Carl Whitehill at CWhitehill@gettysburg.travel. Shakespeare’s Globe, London UK Shakespeare’s Globe has announced its 2010 theatre season, entitled ‘Kings and Rogues’. The season opens on Shakespeare’s birthday – 23 April – and includes some of the playwright’s most regal rogues and some of his most roguish kings.
The season includes Macbeth, Henry VIII and Henry IV parts 1 and 2 and a revival of the Globe’s 2008 production of The Merry Wives of Windsor. Completing the 2010 programme is Anne Boleyn and two regional tours – a revival of the 2009 productions The Comedy of Errors and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Visit : www.shakespearesglobe.com. Contact : James Lever at James.L@shakespearesglobe.com. Festivals in Charleston, South Carolina The Charleston area, recently named one of America’s friendliest cities, has a number of festivals and events designed to showcase the region’s cultural offerings. Lowcountry Oyster Festival31 January 2010 Grilling up more than 65,000 pounds of oysters and attracting some 10,000 visitors, the festival will includes live entertainment, oyster shucking and oyster eating contests. Visit www.charlestonrestaurantassociation.com. Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 12-14 February 2010 The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition is the largest wildlife art and nature event in the USA with original art by 120 artists; live animal shows; outdoor outfitters; sporting arms and antique decoys. Visit www.sewe.com. The Charleston Wine and Food Festival 4-7 March 2010 The 5th Charleston Wine + Food Festival draws top chefs and culinary experts from around the world with guests enjoying the flavours of the Lowcountry. Visit www.charlestonwineandfood.com. Charleston Fashion Week 16-20 March 2010 The 4th Charleston Fashion Week, in Marion Square, showcases the latest trends from designers and boutiques. Visit www.charlestonfashionweek.com. 63rd Annual Festival of Houses & Gardens 18 March – 17 April 2010 Visitors can discover the interiors and gardens of some of the finest private residences in America during this month-long festival. Each festival tour will allow visitors to explore eight to ten properties dating from the American colonial period through the antebellum and Victorian years of architecture, to the early 20th century. Visit www.historiccharleston.org. Charleston International Antiques Show 19-21 March 2010 This exhibition includes a wide range of period furnishings, decorative arts, vintage jewelry, porcelains, ceramics, silver and architectural garden accents from late 17th – early 20th century. Visit www.historiccharleston.org. 23rd Annual Blessing of the Fleet Festival 25 April 2010 Each year, folks in Mount Pleasant and nearby Charleston gather to celebrate the thriving shrimping industry and ask for a “divine blessing” for the safety of those at sea and another prosperous year. Visit www.townofmountpleasant.com. Spoleto Festival USA 28 May - 13 June 2010 Each spring, the Spoleto Festival USA takes over the historic theaters, churches and outdoor venues of Charleston with more than 120 performances by renowned artists and emerging performers. Showcased disciplines include opera, theater, dance, jazz, as well as the visual arts. Visit www.spoletousa.org. Charleston Harbor Fest 18-20 June 2010 Celebrating Charleston’s maritime history and culture, the festival welcomes an impressive fleet of international ships. Downtown attractions will include tall ship tours, an authentic pirate camp, family boat building, free sailing lessons, education village, food, music and more. Visit : www.charlestonharborfest.org. Visit www.explorecharleston.com. Contact : Bridget Barnes at bridgetb@lhammond.com The National Cherry Blossom Festival, Washington, DC The annual National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC takes place from 27 March to 11 April 2010. The festival celebrates the coming of Spring and commemorates the gift of 3,000 cherry trees by the Japanese in 1912, many of which were planted in the Tidal Basin in West Potomac Park. Another 3,800 trees were given in 1965 and flowering cherry trees now adorn the length and breadth of the city. Activities take place every day over the two-weeks including the Parade of the National Cherry Blossom Festival on Saturday 10 April. Visit : www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org. Contact : Lisa Cooper at lisa.cooper@kbc-pr.com. Alliance members looking to take advantage of any of the following should be on assignment, with a commission or able to obtain one. A place to stayAlliance members looking to take advantage of any of the following opportunities should be on assignment, with a commission or able to obtain one. Royal Gardenia, Bengaluru, India Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide has opened its 150th hotel in Asia Pacific with the debut of ITC Royal Gardenia, a Luxury Collection Hotel, in Bengaluru. Bengaluru is the capital of the Indian state of Karnataka located on the Deccan Plateau in the south-eastern part of Karnataka, Bangalore. Taking inspiration from Bengaluru’s numerous gardens and public parks, each of ITC Royal Gardenia’s 11 floors follows a design theme based on various elements of nature including earth, water, fire, stone, foliage and more. Visit : www.luxurycollection.com/royalgardenia. Contact : Witham, Rachel at Rachel.Witham@starwoodhotels.com. The Slieve Donard Resort & Spa, Northern Ireland The Slieve Donard Resort & Spa in Newcastle, County Down, Northern Ireland is at the foot of the Mourne Mountains. Named after the highest peak in the range, the Slieve Donard offers a destination for nature lovers and walkers where the mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea.
Visit www.hastingshotels.com/slievedonard and www.walkni.com. Contact : Kathryn Peel at Kathryn@grifcopr.com. The Strand, New York The Strand, New York is a new, modern tower featuring 20 intimate floors housing 177 deluxe guest rooms and junior suites at 33 W. 37th St. (between 5th and 6th avenues). A member of the Green Hotel Association the hotel is the newest addition to the Atlantic Stars Hotels & Cruises portfolio, which operates boutique hotel and cruising experiences in New York City, Newport, RI, Martha’s Vineyard, South Beach and the Caribbean. Visit www.thestrandnyc.com. Contact : Rebecca Widness at rebecca@widness-co-pr.com The Twelve Apostles Hotel, Cape Town The five-star Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, Cape Town, has completed a structural and interior design refurbishment. The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, a member of the Leading Small Hotels of the World, is located fifteen minutes from the city of Cape Town and five minutes from Camps Bay. It is situated at the foot of the Twelve Apostles Mountain range in a nature reserve with a marine World Sanctuary directly in front of the hotel. Visit : www.12apostleshotel.co.za. Contact : Peter Unsworth at enquiries@theprteam.com. Preferred Hotel Group Two new hotels in India have joined the Preferred Hotel Groupportfolio. The Zuri White Sands Goa Resort & Casino and The Retreat by Zuri are located in Goa and bring the total number of Preferred Hotel Group members in India to 23 properties. Visit www.preferredhotelgroup.com. Contact : Christine Cheong at ccheong@PreferredHotelGroup.com. ITC Classics The ITC Classics portfolio has expanded with a number of new or reopened five star hotels including : Soneva Kiri, ThailandLocated on the untouched east coast island of Koh Kood in Thailand, Soneva Kiri is the newest addition to the Six Senses Resorts & Spas portfolio. Koh Kood is the fourth largest island in Thailand, but one of the least developed. Tropical rainforests, waterfalls and traditional village life combine with clear waters and white sandy beaches. Viceroy, Anguilla Located on the beachfront in Anguilla’s exclusive West End, the Viceroy comprises 166 contemporary rooms, suites, penthouses and villas. The resort features five Caribbean restaurants and lounges, serving locally caught seafood and fresh locally grown fruits and vegetables. With such a choice of dining options, guests can choose between formal and more relaxed atmospheres. Jumby Bay, a Rosewood Resort, Antigua Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort has re-opened after a $28 million redevelopment. La Mamounia, Marrakech The La Mamounia reopened at the end of September 2009 following a complete renovation under the direction of noted French designer, Jacques Garcia. The redesign includes three new riad-style buildings and incorporates secluded accommodation with a private pool. Originally built in 1923, this 230 room hotel is set in 17 acres of lush gardens, full of orange trees, palms and exotic plants in the heart of the ancient quarter of Marrakech. Royal Mansour, Marrakech Opening in the second quarter of 2010, within the city’s medina walls, the Royal Mansour is a member of Leading Hotels of the World. The resort comprises of 53 individual riads, each with their own living room, bar, patio and private plunge pool. Visit : www.itcclassics.co.uk. Contact : Emily Wilson at Emily@grifcopr.com. Grand Hyatt Shenzhen, China Hyatt Hotels & Resorts has opened the Grand Hyatt Shenzhen within Luohu District – Shenzhen’s financial and trading centre. Shenzhen is a city of sub-provincial administrative status in southern China's Guangdong province, situated immediately north of Hong Kong. The hotel lies within theCity Crossing complex alongside MixC, the city’s largest shopping mall, which contains the greatest number of international luxury brand retailers in China, an Olympic-sized skating rink, and Park Lane Manor, the most exclusive residential property in Shenzhen.
The Grand Hyatt Shenzhen is only a five-minute drive from the Hong Kong border. Visit : www.Hyatt.com. Contact : Alexandra Allason at Alex@grifcopr.com. The Royal Garden Apartments, Edinburgh. Blue Rainbow Apartments Ltd, the Manchester based apart-hotel company, has acquired the Royal Garden Apartments in Edinburgh. Located opposite the National Portrait Gallery and just a few minute’s walk from the castle the busy Scottish hotel has 30 apartments, including two Penthouses with views across the river forth. A Visit : www.bluerainbowapartments.com. Contact : Claire Higgins at claire.higgins@bluerainbowapartments.com. Club Med Club Med, the upmarket resort brand celebrate its 60th anniversary this year whilst with a programme of expansion to destinations including China. Since its conception in 1950 as 200 tents on the Spanish island of Mallorca - by Gerard Blitz, the son of an Antwerp diamond merchant and water polo champion - Club Med now has 80 resorts in destinations including the Maldives, Mauritius, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Thailand, Malaysia and Bali. In 2010 Club Med will open 40 luxury villas in Mauritius alongside one of its flagship five trident resorts, La Plantation d’Albion Club Med. Visit www.clubmed.co.uk. Contact : Lois Kettlewell at clubmed@fourcommunications.com. Working with the Alliance The following travel partners and agencies have registered with the Alliance and are keen to work with Alliance travel writers, editors, broadcasters and photographers. Other Alliance partners and agencies can be found at www.itwalliance.com. PartnersNaples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB The Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau is the official source for travel planning information in Collier County, Florida. The CVB assists travel media with information, photography, research visit itineraries and trip planning. Visit : www.paradisecoast.com. Contact : JoNell Modys at jonellmodys@colliergov.net
AgenciesMadigan Pratt & Associates Madigan Pratt & Associates is a customer relationship marketing agency specializing in the luxury services market. It provides expert counsel to the hospitality industry. Visit : www.madiganpratt.com. Contact : Julie Harper at julie@madiganpratt.com McMurry McMurry’s is one of the largest independent full-service marketing communications companies in the U.S. Specializing in content marketing, traditional and digital advertising, interactive, professional development and public relations, Visit : www.mcmurry.com. Contact : Jennifer Tanabe at McMurry at jennifer.tanabe@mcmurry.com (W)right On Communications (W)right On Communications is a full-service public relations agency with offices in San Diego, Calif. and Vancouver, B.C. The first represents a number of hospitality and tourism clients and is well connected in both regions. Visit : www.wrightoncomm.com. Contact : Julie Wright at jwright@wrightoncomm.com Alerts
The Alliance alerts are ongoing independent press trip opportunities. 1066 Country which comprises the area of Battle, Bexhill, Hastings, Herstmonceux, Pevensey and Rye in East Sussex, UK. Visit : www.visit1066ocountry.com. Contact : Jane Ellis at jjmellis@hastings.gov.uk. The Inn on Fifth, a luxurious, 87-room boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Naples in Southwest Florida will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit www.innonfifth.com. Contact : Kelly Grass Prieto at kelly@hayworthcreative.com. Great Hotels Organisation, representing over 200 of the world’s finest hotels and resorts worldwide through Great Hotels of the World and Special Hotels of the World would be pleased to consider offering press trip accommodation to Alliance members. Visit www.ghotw.com. Contact: Brooke Jester bjester@ghorg.com. Visit Chester and Cheshire and Visit Lincoln and Lincolnshire will be delighted to host Alliance members with a commission. Visit : www.visitchester.com and www.lincoln.gov.uk. Contact : Oliver Bennett at oliverbennett@blueyonder.co.uk. Swiss-Belhotel International, which manages hotels, resorts and residences throughout the Asia Pacific, Southeast Asia, China and The Middle East regions, will be pleased to consider offering press trip accommodation to Alliance members. Visit : www.swiss-belhotel.com. Contact : Ayla Hass at aylahaas@swiss-belhotel.com. Pembrokeshire, South West Wales will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members with a commission. Visit: www.pembrokeshire.com. Contact: Pat Edgar PRMatters@dsl.pipex.com The Rutland Hotel, Edinburgh, will be delighted to invite Alliance members to review this botique hotel. Visit www.therutlandhotel.com. Contact Yvonne or Fiona at info@nicheworks.co.uk. The Galapagos Islands : Quasar Expeditions would like to invite Alliance members to cover trips aboard the M/Y Grace, its vintage yacht in the Galapagos Islands. Visit : www.galapagosexpeditions.com/gracepresskit.php. Contact : Paul Schicke at paul@quasarex.com. Focus Hotels invite Alliance members to review their three and four-star properties located in key destinations across the UK. Visit : www.focushotels.co.uk. Contact : Eleanore Longley at eleanore@bacall.net. Champagne-Ardenne Tourisme, four departments boasting historic chateaux, walking & cycling routes, a variety of sports and superb natural scenery and of Champagne, will be pleased to consider press visits to Alliance members with a commission. Visit : www.tourisme-champagne-ardenne.comContact: Doug Goodman at doug@douggoodmanpr.com or on 0208 614 1448. The 5* Blythswood Square Hotel, Glasgow, formerly headquarters to the Royal Scottish Automobile Club, has been redeveloped by the Town House Collection Visit www.blythswoodsquare.com or www.thetownhousecollection.com. Contact: Jo Murphy at Jo@thespaprcompany.com. Aspects Holidays specialises in providing self-catering accommodation, from luxury apartments to traditional fisherman’s cottages in and around St Ives and the West Cornwall area of the UK. Aspects will be pleased to consider press visits to Alliance members with a commission. Visit www.aspects-holidays.co.uk. Contact : Karen Baker at karen@mercury-pr.co.uk. The Inn at Lathones, Scotland's only 4 star inn, is delighted to consider press trips from Alliance members. The 17th-century listed building near St Andrews is one of Scotland’s oldest coaching inns and boasts 21 recently refurbished external rooms/suites, an award-winning restaurant, an intimate stone-walled bar and converted stables that host regular music events. For more information visit: www.theinn.co.uk Contact: Lee MacGregor at lee@leemacgregorpr.com Yapham Cottages will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.yaphamcottages.co.uk. Contact: Karen Outred at ko@freelancepr.fsnet.co.uk. The Discovery Collection, independent specialist in boutique breaks to North Cyprus, Turkey, Puglia, Sicily, Malta and Gozo, will be happy to consider offering press visits to Alliance members. A varied programme includes beach and city breaks, twin-centre stays, walking holidays and special interest tours. Visit : www.thediscoverycollection.com. Contact: Jill Guest at jill@ocean-advertising.co.uk or on 020 7436 Frontier Travel organise tailor-made holidays to Canada in both the Summer (www.frontier-canada.co.uk) and the Winter (www.frontier-ski.co.uk). The company will consider offering individuals press trips for Alliance members. Contact: Dave Ashmore at dave@frontier-travel.co.uk or on +44 (0) 20 8404 2447. Sail Lofts St Ives, a group of 12 luxury holiday apartments just metres from Porthmeor Beach, will be pleased to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members with a commission. Visit: www.saillofts.co.uk. Contact: Cathryn Hicks at cathryn@douggoodmanpr.com. The Alfajiri Villas and Galdessa Camp would like to invite Alliance members to stay at Alfajiri Villas (www.alfajirivillas.com) or Galdessa Camp (www.galdessa.com).Visit : www.FazendinPortfolio.com. Contact Sarah Fazendin at sarah@fazendinportfolio.com. The Peat Inn and 5-star restaurant in St.Andrews, Scotland will provide Alliance members able to review the Inn will receive complimentary dinner, bed and breakfast including guest. Visit : http://www.thepeatinn.co.uk. Contact : Megan Davidson at megan@crimsonedge.co.uk. The Isles of Scilly will be delighted to consider offering travel and accommodation to Alliance members on assignment, with a commission or who are able to obtain one. Visit: http://www.simplyscilly.co.uk. Contact: Karen Baker at karen@mercury-pr.co.uk. The Park Hyatt Istanbul-Maçka Palas, Turkey will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.hyatt.com. Kathryn Peel on +44 (0) 207 385 7090 or at Kathryn@grifcopr.com. Helpful Holidays, UK will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.helpfulholidays.com. Contact: Pat Edgar at PRMatters@dsl.pipex.com. Jet2.com and Jet2holidays.com will be happy to consider offering flights and holiday opportunities. Contact: Louise Woodward at louise@lucre.co.uk or on +44 (0) 113 243 1117 . Wilderness Journeys will be delighted to consider offering press trip facilities to Alliance members. Visit : www.wildernessjourneys.com. Contact: Stevie Christie at stevie@wildernessjourneys.com or on +44 (0)131 625 6635. Divi Resorts, the Caribbean will be happy to consider accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.diviresorts.com. Contact: Jacqueline Burton at jburton@fwv-us.com. Charming Hotel Madeira will be pleased to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.charminghotelsmadeira.com. Contact: Cathryn Hicks at cathryn@douggoodmanpr.com. Sea Kayak Adventures explore Baja and Canada's newest marine parks and prolific whale watching destinations by sea kayak with Sea Kayak Adventures. Sea Kayak Adventures will be happy to provide press trip facilities to Alliance members. Visit: www.seakayakadventures.com. Contact: Nancy Mertz at info@seakayakadventures.com. The View Hotel, Monument Valley, Arizona, USA, which opened in September 2008, is situated on the Navajo Tribal Park, on the border of Arizona and Utah. The View Hotel will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.MonumentValleyView.com. Contact: Mike Finney at mike@azcomgroup.com. The Menzies Welcombe Hotel Spa & Golf Club, Stratford-upon-Avon will be delighted to offer dinner, bed and breakfast at this country house hotel to Alliance members able to review the property. Visit : www.menzieshotels.co.uk. Contact : Tanya Aspinwall at tanya@marketingaloud.co.uk Bike The Whites is New England’s inn-to-inn biking tour experience, which offers customized route planning for cyclists of all abilities, the scenic beauty of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Bike the Whites will be delighted to hear from Alliance members. Visit: www.bikethewhites.com. Contact: Marti Mayne at Marti.Mayne@BedandBreakfast.com. Rosen Hotels will be delighted to host Alliance members who will be in the Orlando area, at the new 1500-room, 14-story Rosen Shingle Creek. Visit www.rosenshinglecreek.com. Contact Mary Deatrick at mdeatrick@cfl.rr.com. The Peace and Plenty, Bahamas will be delighted to provide accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.peaceandplenty.com. Contact: Hazel Heyer at hazel_heyer@hotmail.com. The Grand Hyatt San Antonio, Texas is a 1003-room, 37-storey luxury hotel, which has just opened in the bustling heart of the Alamo City. The Grand Hyatt San Antonio, Texas will be happy to consider providing accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.hyatt.com. Contact: Alison Wood at Alison@grifcopr.com or on +44 (0)207 385 7090. Ranch Rider stays are steeped in tradition, allowing travellers to sample an authentic western experience.Ranch Rider will be pleased to consider press trip facilities to Alliance members. Visit: www.ranchrider.com. Contact: Siobhan at siobhan@tionlondon.co.uk. Alliance members looking to take advantage of any of the following opportunities should be on assignment, with a commission or able to obtain one. Travel products and servicesThe following providers of travel products and services will be happy to provide these to Alliance members in return for a credit or review. Magellan's Magellan's, one of the worlds most trusted source of travel supplies, provides a superior selection of travel products to make travel more comfortable, safe, and rewarding. The Magellan’s product range offers hundreds of useful and appreciated products and provides travelers with : a single source of state-of-the-art, quality travel products up-to-the-minute and well-researched information to meet the needs of all travelers, and an exceptional customer experience Visit : www.magellans.co.uk. Contact : Lynn Staneff at lstaneff@magellans.co.uk. Dollar rent a car Dollar rent a car will be delighted to offer a discount to Alliance members on car rental in the USA in return for a credit. Discounts will be agreed on a case-by-case basis. Visit : www.dollar.co.uk, Contact : Cheryl Richardson at Cheryl.Richardson@DTAG.com or on + 44 (0) 20 7391 4622 The Leisure Pass The Leisure Pass Group creates all-inclusive ‘smart’ passes, for cities around the world. The purchase price covers entrance to all attractions, fast-track entry at a number of attractions, and gives discounts at shops, theatres, service providers and restaurants. Launching with The London Pass, the programme also includes York, New York, Paris and Philadelphia. Alliance members can get review passes for the cities covered. Visit : www.leisurepassgroup.com. Contact :Andrew Campbell-edie at Andrew.Campbell-edie@Sirenpr.co.uk. Travel guidesThe following travel publishers will be happy to provide review copies to Alliance members. Anova Bookswww.anovabooks.com. Helen Ponting at hponting@anovabooks.co Berlitzwww.berlitzpublishing.com. Julia Spence at julia.spence@ukonline.co.ukBradt Travelwww.bradtguides.com. Debbie Hunter at debbie.hunter@bradtguides.com Brit's Guidewww.foulsham.com. Margaret Lashbrook at margaret.lashbrook@lineone.net or Sue Wilkins at wilkins@foulsham.com. Cicerone Visit : www.cicerone.co.uk. Contact : Sarah Spencer at sarah@cicerone.co.uk Eland Publishing www.travelbooks.co.uk. Barnaby Rogerson at barnaby@travelbooks.co.uk.
www.fisherstravelsos.com. Furgan Syed at furqan.syed@fisherstravelsos.com. Global Travel Publishers www.africa-adventure.com. Kate Bandos at kate@ksbpromotions.com. Globetrotters LogBookwww.globetrotterslogbook.com. Giedo Claes at giedo@globetrotterslogbook.com Inn House Publishingwww.innhousepublishing.com. Kathryn McWhirter at kathrynmcwhirter@btopenworld.com. Insightwww.insightguides.com. Julia Spence at Julia.spence@ukonline.co.uk. In your pocket guideswww.inyourpocket.com. Craig Turp at editor@inyourpocket.com. Jane’s Smart Art Guideswww.JanesSmartArt.com. Jane McIntosh at MJM@JanesSmartArt.com
info@jonglezpublishing.com. Kuperard Publisherswww.kuperard.co.uk. Contact : Geoffrey Chester at geoffreychesler@btinternet.com. Lonely Planetwww.lonelyplanet.com. Europe, Middle East and Africa: Heather Carswell at heather.carswell@lonelyplanet.co.uk, North and Central America: Rand Freedman at rana.freedman@lonelyplanet.com.au; Australia, New Zealand and Asia: Brynony Cole at bryony.cole@lonelyplanet.com.au. Morris Communicationswww.themilepost.com. Contact Kate Bandos at kate@ksbpromotions.com. Odyssey Books & Guides www.odysseypublications.com. Contact : Caroline Eden at caroline@odysseypublications.com Oxygen Books city-litwww.oxygenbooks.co.uk Malcom Burgess at malcolm@oxygenbooks.co.uk Rough Guideswww.roughguides.com. Contact : press@roughguides. Turnleftwww.turnleftguides.comContact: Nick Buteau at nick@turnleftguides.com The International Travel Writers Alliance and AllWays The International Travel Writers Alliance The Alliance
The Alliance provides information and support to over 7,200 professionals who travel to write, broadcast or create images. You can see the caliber of Alliance members by visiting www.itwalliance.com and clicking on Members/member profiles. This section is updated weekly. Alliance services in brief
Through the Alliance we can reach and influence professional travel writers, editors, photographers and broadcasters by : placing information and images on the Alliance website distributing travel information and story ideas to professional travel writers, editors, broadcasters and photographers through our bi-monthly bulletins producing Destination dossiers, which are detailed media briefings sent to members and used by partners and their agencies for press pack information emailing Alliance alerts to members organising Destination networking events (linked to the destination dossiers) planning and managing individual and group press trips, and staging professional travel writer symposiums in key destinations AllWays
AllWays (www.allwaystraveller.com) is the new consumer travel service from the Alliance. The AllWays package AllWays will comprises : AllWays traveller : the regular and special issue e-newsletters and updates for AllWays travellers AllWays online : a web archive of features, images and audio/visual streaming from the Alliance's professional writers, editors, broadcasters and photographers AllWays more : a series of mini-guides providing key information in a no frills format for destinations or travel pursuits, and the AllWays travel club : offering a wide range of travel discounts and incentives to AllWays travellers AllWays magazine : launches as phase two of the AllWays development, will be the quality end magazine for AllWays travellers, and AllWays care : will focus on travel opportunities where there is an emphasis on social, environmental and economic responsibility. The International Travel Writers Alliance bulletinIssue 65 : January 2010Providing key information on a no-frills format for who travel to write, edit, broadcast or create images. The media contacts listed will always be pleased to hear from Alliance members. When requesting ‘press trip’ facilities members should be on assignment, with a commission or able to obtain one. Editor: Ashley Gibbins : Ashley@itwalliance.com or 0776 419 8286 Archive issues : www.itwalliance.com. In this issue1 : Opportunities Group and individual press trip opportunities 2 : News News of interest to travel writers, editors, broadcasters and photographers 3 : LeadsTravel and tourism industry leads and initiatives 4 : The year ahead Events and celebrations of interest sponsored by The Year Ahead 5 : Reasons to write about … Information on destinations and travel pursuits from Alliance partners and agencies 6 : A place to stayOpportunities for Alliance members to review new and unusual accommodation 7 : Working with Alliance members Travel partners and agencies keen to work with Alliance members. Ongoing information8: Alerts Bullet point information on destinations, accommodation and travel pursuits that offer ongoing press trip opportunities to travel writers, editors, broadcasters and photographers 9 : Travel products and services Providers of travel products or services happy to provide Alliance members with review items. 10: Travel guides Travel publishers that are happy to provide Alliance members with review copies 11 : The International Travel Writers Alliance and AllWays Registering with the Alliance To register with the International Travel Writers Alliance visit : www.itwalliance.com, click to enter the site and click on Register as a member/editor/partner or agency. We do no pass on contact details of our members without their direct permission Opportunities Alliance members looking to take advantage of any of the following opportunities should be on assignment, with a commission or able to obtain one. Shepherd Neame
Shepherd Neame ‘Britain’s oldest brewer’ invites Alliance members to review its selection of coastal and country Kentish inns and hotels. Set in a choice of locations throughout Kent the properties are good bases for a traditional British getaway.
Visiting writers will be able to sample the locally sourced menus on offer at each hotel, and be guided on the range of Shepherd Neame ales available. Local attractions and activities range from seashore trails and cycle ways, to scenic walking routes, medieval villages, stately homes and easy access to the cathedral city of Canterbury.
Accommodation, evening meal and breakfast will be provided on a complimentary basis but not transportation to and from the individual hotels. Visit : www.shepherd-neame.co.uk. Contact : Vicky Pilcher at vicky.pilcher@edwardsharvey.com. Siripanna Villa Resort Chiang Mai, Thailand Siripanna Villa Resort Chiang Mai, Thailand has soft-opened and will be happy to offer review facilities to Alliance members. Accommodation and breakfast will be provided on a complimentary basis. Transport to the resort is excluded. Chiang Mai is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand, and is the capital of Chiang Mai Province. It is located some 700 km (435 mi) north of Bangkok Located in Chiang Mai city centre and adjacent to the Gymkhana Golf Course, Siripanna Villa Resort Chiang Mai is a low-rise resort hotel with an architectural design based upon the city’s Lanna heritage. It is the first property under the new Centara Boutique Collection brand. Visit : www.centarahotelsresorts.com. Contact : Gill Warren at gillyw@avenuesales.co.uk. city-pick Dublin city-pick Dublin comprises contributions from sixty writers about the city including an insider’s view of James Joyce, an escapee returning to the Celtic Tiger, a German view of St Patrick’s Cathedral, a sardonic view of the Dublin male or a journey to Dublin’s ‘Little Africa’. city-pick Dublin is the latest title in the city-pick series which already includes Paris, London and Berlin. Visit : www.oxygenbooks.co.uk. For a review copy contact Malcolm Burgess at Malcolm.burgess3@btopenworld.com The Isles of Scilly Frommer’s - has named the Isles of Scilly as one of ‘the’ top 10 destinations in the World to visit in 2010. The only UK destination to make the list, the Island archipelago, which lies 28 miles off the tip of Lands End, the Isles of Scilly was named in the top 10 along with other destinations such as Hanoi, Copenhagen, Hawaii and Abu Dhabi, it is the first time that the Islands have made the prestigious list. Frommer’s wrote … the islands are a collection of secluded sandy beaches, Bronze Age burial chambers, and rocky promontories, and a smattering of beautifully located cafés ensure plenty of diversions -- such as kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing -- en route. There are five inhabited islands: St. Mary's, Tresco, St. Martin's, St. Agnes, and Bryher, along with more than 150 uninhabited ones that lay scattered across the shallow turquoise seas. Fringed with beaches of soft, pale sand, the archipelago has the exotic appeal of some faraway holiday paradise, an impression enhanced by the balmy, frost-free climate and colourful subtropical plants. Visit www.simplyscilly.co,uk. To discuss a press trip to the islands contact : Karen Baker at karen@mercury-pr.co.uk. Gawler Ranges Wilderness Safaris, South Australia Gawler Ranges Wilderness Safaris are specialists in wildlife and natural history on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula The company is run by a team of South Australians who have lived in the Outback most of their lives, and adhere to the‘ leave only footprints, take only photos and memories’ philosophy. Tour groups are between two and six people. Based 600 kms north west of Adelaide on the Eyre Peninsula, itself the size of Tasmania, the safaris focus on the Gawler Ranges and the immediate coastline from a base camp, located at Kangaluna near Wudinna. The diverse terrain of the Ranges comprises arid, semi-desert and volcanic landscapes complete with spectacular gorges and rocky outcrops, gibber plains, vast salt lakes, dunes and Aboriginal rock art. Over 100 species of birds, plus kangaroo (three species), emu and wombat inghabit the area. Visit : www.gawlerrangessafaris.com and www.southaustralia.com. To discuss media trips contact : Jovanka Ristich at jovanka@independentpr.co.uk. The Peat Inn, Scotland The Peat Inn, a destination restaurant with rooms on Fife’s beautiful coastal trial, Scotland. Situated six miles from the golfing and university town of St Andrews, it is owned and run by Chef and food columnist Geoffrey Smeddle and his wife Katherine. Alliance members will receive a complimentary, dinner, bed and breakfast basis for review. Visit : www.thepeatinn.co.uk. Contact : Megan Davidson at megan@crimsonedge.co.uk. For ongoing opportunities for Alliance members see Alerts (below) or visit : www.internationaltravelwritersalliance.com. News Al Bustan Festival, Beirut, Lebanon 17 February – 20 March 2010
The Al Bustan International Festival of Music and the Arts takes place in the village of Beyt Meri. Over five weeks in February and March, the Festival has about 30 performances including opera; symphonic, choral and chamber music; dance; theatre, solo recitals, oriental music and jazz. Visit: www.albustanfestival.com contact Brooke Jester bjester@ghorg.com. Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender History Month, United Kingdom 01 Feb 2010 - 28 Feb 2010 Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender History Month, aiming to celebrate gays & their lifestyle & end an alleged 'silence' about homosexual issues in schools Visit : www.schools-out.org.uk. Contact : Sue Sanders sue.sanders03@virgin.net. Golden Raspberry (RAZZIE) Awards, United States 01 Feb 2010 | 30th Golden Raspberry awards aka Razzie awards nominations announced, for worst movies & performances.
01 Feb 2010 - 07 Feb 2010 | Visit : www.tulsaboatshow.com. Contact : Ryan Rex at ryan@rexpr.com.
02 Feb 2010 Academy Awards (The Oscars) nominations announced. This year, the number of films nominated for Best Picture has been expanded from 5 to 10 * 82nd Academy Awards take place 7 Mar, 2 weeks later than in 2009 in order to avoid a clash with the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Canada
02 Feb 2010 Empire State Building Run-Up, annual international race up 86 flights of stairs & 1,576 steps from the ground floor lobby to the Observation Deck that looms nearly a quarter of a mile above Fifth Avenue.
Visit : www.nyrr.org. Contact : Sara Hunninghake at shunninghake@nyrr.org. San Francisco Ocean Film Festival, United States 03 Feb 2010 - 07 Feb 2010 San Francisco Ocean Film Festival (SFOFF 2010), celebrating the sea with films that increase appreciation of the oceans, established to use film to improve public understanding of the environmental, social & cultural importance of marine ecosystems
04 Feb 2010 - 28 Feb 2010 'Wall Of Death: A Way of Live', live touring public art event featuring artist Stephen Skrynka and the Ken Fox Troupe on a Wall of Death opens in Glasgow. The Wall of Death, in which stunt motorcyclists carry out tricks within a drum-shaped cylinder, first appeared in the UK in 1929. Tours to Aberdeen (21- 22 Feb) and Edinburgh (25-28). Press performance 5 Feb Visit : www.nationaltheatrescotland.com. Contact : Emma Schad at emma.schad@nationaltheatrescotland.com. Show Harley, Montreal, Canada 05 Feb 2010 - 06 Feb 2010 Show Harley - Harley-Davidson motorbike show. Visit : www.showharley.com. Contact : info@montrealproduction.com.
08 Feb 2010 33rd America's Cup sailing expected to begin with defending champions Alinghi of Switzerland against challenger BMW Oracle Racing of San Francisco. The world's premier international sailing competition has been delayed numerous times since Alinghi's 2007 victory due to legal wranglings between teams.
10 Feb 2010 - 12 Feb 2010 ENTER International Conference on Information Technology and Travel & Tourism. Visit : www.ifitt.org. Contact : ifitt@ifitt.org.
11 Feb 2010 - 28 Feb 2010 Portland International Film Festival, annual event, the biggest film event in Oregon premiering over 100 international shorts & feature films to Portland audiences Visit : www.nwfilm.org. Contact : Jessica Lyness at jessica@nwfilm.org. Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics, Vancouver, Canada 12 Feb 2010 - 28 Feb 2010 Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics begin. Visit : www.vancouver2010.com. Contacts : mediarelations@vancouver2010.com.
12 Feb 2010 - 15 Feb 2010 The Great Backyard Bird Count, annual four-day event with bird watchers counting birds to create a real-time snapshot. In 2009 the most-frequently reported bird was the Northern Cardinal. Visit : www.birdsource.org. Contact : citizenscience@audubon.org. Lemon Festival (La Fete du Citron) Alpes-Maritimes, France 12 Feb 2010 - 03 Mar 2010 Lemon Festival (La Fete du Citron). French carnival celebration featuring the golden citrus parade of floats & giant citrus decorations in the Bioves gardens, Menton, known as 'La Cite des Citrons' (The City of Lemons)
12 Feb 2010 - 14 Feb 2010 Wickenburg Gold Rush Days, celebration of Wickenburg's heritage including gold panning, mucking and drilling contest and other activities relating to the gold fever that created the town
13 Feb 2010 Clinton Global Initiative University 2010 (aka CGI U 2010) meeting, hosted by former U.S. President Bill Clinton. Project that challenges students and universities to tackle global problems with practical, innovative solutions
13 Feb 2010 - 15 Feb 2010 Coconut Grove Arts Festival, annual arts festival incl art, performance and music
Leads
From 10 December 2009 to 10 March 2010, The Council of Europe is hosting Poster4Tomorrow, a worldwide exhibition on freedom of expression with contributions from designers and artists of 67 countries. This exhibition has been released simultaneously in 23 cities worldwide including Milan, La Paz, Los Angeles, Marrakech, Montreal, Quito, Stockholm, Berlin, Belgrade and Strasbourg. The exhibition has been sponsored the Council of Europe and UNESCO. The posters can be seen online at www.poster4tomorrow.org. Contact : Hristo Hristov at Hristo.HRISTOV@coe.int. Wicked Campers Wicked Campers, which runs budget campervan hire in Australia, New Zealand has introduced their campervans in the UK and Europe. The company offers individually graffitied vans complete with accommodation and built-in kitchen. Visit : www.wickedcampers.co.uk. Contact : Beth Kendall at beth@citruspr.co.uk. Al Bustan Festival, Beirut, Lebanon 17 February – 20 March 2010
The Al Bustan International Festival of Music and the Arts takes place in the village of Beyt Meri over five weeks in February and March. The Festival has about 30 performances including opera; symphonic, choral and chamber music; dance; theatre, solo recitals, oriental music and jazz. Visit: www.albustanfestival.com contact Brooke Jester bjester@ghorg.com. Helsinki Chosen as World Design Capital 2012
The International Council of Societies of Industrial Design has recently announced that Finland’s capital city Helsinki has been chosen from 46 cities as the third World Design Capital for 2012. Visit www.wdc2012helsinki.fi/en, www.worlddesigncapital.com and www.visitfinland.com/uk Contact : Jules Ugo at jules@lotus-uk.co.uk.
Visit : www.dfds.co.uk. Contact : Andrew Shearer at andrew.shearer@robson-brown.co.uk The Royal Ontario Museum, Canada An exhibition by artist Dan Perjovschi will open at the Royal Ontario Museum's (ROM) Institute for Contemporary Culture on 22 February 2010. The ROM will be the first institution to present Dan Perjovschi's work in Canada. Visit : www.rom.on.ca. Contact : Anne Marie Todaro at amtodaro@rom.on.ca. The year ahead Information for professional travel writes, editors, broadcasters and photographers on events and celebrations worldwide. Sponsored by The Year Ahead. Santa Barbara International Film Festival, California, USA February 2010 to 14 February 2010 (annual, 25th) The festival features screenings of over 200 international features, a programme of 50 short films, discussion panels, competitions and workshops. Presentations honour actors and directors, all of whom collect their awards in person. Visit : www.sbfilmfestival.org. Contact : carol@cmarshallpr.com. Sapporo Snow Festival, Japan 05 February 2010 to 11 February 2010 (annual, 61st) Hundreds of snow statues and ice sculptures line Odori Park, Satoland and the main street in Susukino. One of Japan's largest winter events. Includes the International Snow Sculpture Contest. Around two million visitors from all over the world attend. Visit : www.snowfes.com/english. Contact : Kylie Clark at kylie@jnto.co.uk. Wanderlust Travel Photo Of The Year, London, UK 05 February 2010 (annual, 14th) UK's longest-running amateur photography competition. Attracts over 6000 entries. Prizes are presented and winning images are exhibited at Destinations: The Holiday & Travel Show (February 4-7). Visit : www.wanderlust.co.uk/photocomp and www.destinationsshow.com. Contact : Rob Hawthorne at rob.hawthorne@wanderlust.co.uk. El Carnaval Vegano, La Vega, Dominican Republic 06 February 2010 to 28 February 2010 (annual) Costume parades, with locals donning masks of the Cojuelos devil, and outdoor concerts take place each weekend leading up to Dominican Independence Day (February 27). Over 150,000 revellers attend. Visit : www.carnavalvegano.com. Contact : info@godominicanrepublic.com. Venice Carnival, Italy 06 February 2010 to 16 February 2010 (annual) The carnival celebrates the start of Lent and features harlequins, puppet shows, concerts, plays, dance and various folklore performances. Subtitled SENSATION (six senses for six districts); as each district represents a different sense, with San Marco as the sensory centre. Venice's most popular event. Carnival is a massive tourist attraction. Masks are a central feature, which traditionally symbolise social status. Visit : www.carnivalofvenice.com and www.venicecarnival.com. Contact : Gianluca Zuin at gianluca.zuin@veneziamarketingeventi.it. Maslenitsa, London, UK 07 February 2010 (annual, 2nd) Russian festival featuring folk music and dancing as well as choir and theatrical performances. Visit : . www.london.gov.uk Contact : Rachelle Laurence at rachelle.laurence@london.gov.uk. Cologne Carnival, Germany 11 February 2010 to 17 February 2010 (annual) Historic carnival of which the highlight is Rosemontag, a grand parade held on the Monday before Ash Wednesday. One of the largest festivals in Europe. Over one million people line the streets. Visit : www.colognecarnival.com. Contact : info@koelnerkarneval.de. The Pan African Film & Arts Festival, Los Angeles, California, USA 11 February 2010 to 21 February 2010 (annual, 18th) Non-profit event promoting cultural heritage and awareness. Part of Black History Month (February). Largest black film and arts festival in the United States. Features over 100 international films, African arts and craft exhibitions, poetry readings, traditional music, plus entertainment and educational events for children and students. Over 240,000 people attend. Visit : www.paff.org. Contact : Jasmyne Cannick at publicity@paff.org. New Zealand Fringe Festival, Wellington, New Zealand 12 February 2010 to 06 March 2010 (annual, 17th) The festival celebrates the best in basement productions, cutting-edge multimedia, stand-up, theatre, visual arts and the hottest new live music. Largest event of its kind in New Zealand is recognised as a unique creative launch pad for the arts. Around 100 events in over 40 venues take place. Visit : www.fringe.org.nz. Contact : Mark Westerby at director@fringe.co.nz. Tenerife Carnival,Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain 12 February 2010 to 21 February 2010 Features the Grand Procession, fireworks, the Burial of the Sardine Parade, a classic car procession and an open air dance. One of Europe's largest carnivals. Theme is The History Of Humanity. Visit : www.carnavaltenerife.es and www.etenerife.com. Contact : Karen Bencomo at kbenper@sctfe.es. Good Vibrations Festival, Sydney, Australia 13 February 2010 (annual Touring dance music festival staged within natural surroundings. Also takes place in Melbourne (Feb 21), the Gold Coast (Feb 20) and Perth (Feb 14). Performers in 2009 included Fatboy Slim, The Presets, Sam Sparro, Chromeo and Kid Kenobi. Visit : www.goodvibrationsfestival.com.au. Contact : Katie Hardwick at katie@ferrisdaviesprm.com.au. Nice Carnival, Nice, France 13 February 2010 to 03 March 2010 (annual, 126th) The carnival features flower and light parades, float processions, firework displays, music and theatre. One of the biggest carnivals in the world. Theme is King Of The Blue Planet. Over one million visitors attend. Visit : www.nicecarnaval.com. Contact : Catherine Anouilh at marketing@nicetourisme.com. Rio Carnival, Brazil 13 February 2010 to 16 February 2010 (annual) The Brazil carnivals take place throughout Brazil, especially in Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and Recife. Considered one of the greatest shows on Earth. Ends with Mardi Gras (also known as Fat Tuesday) celebrations. Highlights include the Samba School Parade. Samba Parades are broadcast live in several countries, and to all Brazilian states. More than 750,000 tourists attend Visit : www.rio-carnival.net and www.ipanema.com/carnival. Contact : sales@rio-carnival.net. Chinese New Year - London celebrations, UK 14 February 2010 (annual) The festival in Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square & Chinatown, London is the biggest of the year for Chinese communities in the capital. The Year Of The Tiger is welcomed in with dancing dragons, music, acrobatics, a parade and a fireworks display.Grand parade travels along The Strand, Charing Cross Road, and Shaftesbury Avenue. Celebrations also take place in Chinatowns of Manchester, Liverpool, Newcastle and Birmingham. Visit : www.london.gov.uk. Contact : Ben McKnight at ben.mcknight@london.gov.uk. For more information on The Year Ahead visit : www.yearahead.co.uk. Contact : Robert Reeves at Robert.Reeves@profilegroup.co.uk. Reasons to write about Alliance members looking to take advantage of any of the following should be on assignment, with a commission or able to obtain one. Mark Twain and the Pony Express in Missouri Mark Twain celebrations Missouri celebrates three Mark Twain anniversaries in 2010. the 175th anniversary of his birth the 125th anniversary of Twain's pinnacle work Adventures of Huckleberry Finn the 100th anniversary of his death. Mark Twain (Samuel Langhorne Clemens), the American author and humorist born in Florida in 1835, moved, when four, to Hannibal, Missouri, a port town on the Mississippi River that served as the inspiration for the fictional town of St. Petersburg in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Hannibal, keeps the days of Mark Twain alive with cruises on the Mississippi, tours and visits to the many historic homes including Twain's boyhood home and museum. Visit www.VisitHannibal.com. Pony Express celebrates 150th Anniversary The Pony Express is a part of the legend of the American West and next April Missouri celebrates its 150th anniversary. The Pony Express was set up with the threat of Civil War and the need for faster communication. The service opened officially on April 3, 1860, when riders left simultaneously from St. Joseph, Missouri, and Sacramento, California. It targeted local orphans to make up the relays of riders carrying saddlebags of mail across a 2000-mile trail with each rider covering 250 miles in a 24-hour day. The first westbound trip was made in 9 days and 23 hours and the eastbound journey in 11 days and 12 hours. Eventually, the Pony Express had more than 100 stations, 80 riders, and between 400 and 500 horses. The express route was extremely hazardous, but only one mail delivery was ever lost. The service lasted only 19 months (until October 24, 1861) when the completion of the Pacific Telegraph line ended the need for its existence. Visit www.stjomo.com. Contact : Karen Beck ay karen@cellet.co.uk. Adventure Bay Charters, South Australia Adventure Bay Charters offers visitors the opportunity to swim with tuna and sea lions off the Eyre Peninsula’s coast in Port Lincoln, South Australia one of the world’s largest protected natural harbours. The family-run operator’s Close Up Tuna tours runs excursions to an aquaculture farm for the chance to swim with southern blue fin tuna. The company’s Sea Lion Adventures tour, allows participants to interact with the ‘puppy dogs of the sea’ on a half-day tour into the sheltered waters of Hopkins Island, a part of the Memory Cove Wilderness Protection Area. Visit : www.adventurebaycharters.com.au and www.southaustralia.com. To discuss media visits contact: Jovanka Ristich at jovanka@independentpr.co.uk. Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards The following travel destinations and pursuits received awards as part of the Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards 2009 Overall Winner: Whale Watch Kaikoura, New ZealandA tourism initiative developed by four Maori families as a joint venture with Sea World on the Gold Coast of Australia to provide whale watching. Visit : www.whalewatch.co.nz. Contact : Kauahi Ngapora at Kauahi@whalewatch.co.nz. Best tour operator for cultural engagement, sponsored by Tourism Western Australia : Village Ways, India Community-owned and managed projects in the Indian Himalayas offering authentic cultural experiences, which has brought previously vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals from the Dalit community into focus as porters. Visit : www.villageways.com. Contact : Julia Spence at juliaspence.pr@gmail.com. Best large hotel / accommodation, sponsored by Fairmont Hotels & Resorts : YHA Wellington City, New Zealand The YHA Wellington engages guests with its Green Footprint Project, which includes a 'Tree Planting Day' for guests. Visit : www.yha.co.nz. Contact : Chris Sperring at chris.sperring@yha.co.nz. Best small hotel / accommodation, sponsored by Discover Dominica Tourism Authority : Rivertime Resort and Ecolodge, Laos The Rivertime Resort and Ecolodge has established and 'Agreement of Cooperation' with the three local villages making contractual obligations of key responsible tourism principles." Visit : www.rivertimelaos.com. Contact Philip Gibson at rivertimeresort@yahoo.com. Best low carbon transport & technology sponsored by The Quito Visitors Bureau, Ecuador : Alcatraz Cruises, US The Hornblower Hybrid, the flagship vessel for Alcatraz Cruises, is constructed from a reused diving vessel. Visit : www.hornblower.com. Contact Tegan Firth at tfirth@hornblower.com. Best in a mountain environment, sponsored by World Expeditions : Upland Escapes, UK Upland Escapes offers 'No-Frills Escapes' (30 per cent cheaper than regular trips). Visit : www.uplandescapes.com. Contact : Edward Granville at egranville@uplandescapes.com. Best in a marine environment, sponsored by Tourism Fiji : Whale Watch Kaikoura, New Zealand This is a 100 per cent Maori-owned whale watching operation that carries 90,000-100,000 passengers a year in energy-efficient craft which have a very low impact on the marine environment. Visit : www.whalewatch.co.uk. Contact : Kauahi Ngapora at Kauahi@whalewatch.co.nz. Best cruise or ferry operator sponsored by Tourism Malaysia : Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd, USA Royal Caribbean have reduced emissions in their newest ships by 50 per cent over ships built around 10 years ago. Visit : www.rccl.com. Contact : Briony Peters at bpeters@rccl.com. Best for poverty reduction sponsored by PromPeru : Guludo Beach Lodge, Mozambique The work of Guludo Beach Lodge, through its charitable foundation 'Nema', has had a highly positive impact on the immediate community, working towards major improvements in children's health care and education conditions. Visit : www.guludo.com. Contact : Amy Carter-James at amy@guludo.com. Best for conservation of wildlife & habitats, sponsored by South Australian Tourism Commission : Great Plains Conservation, South Africa Great Plains has incorporated a range of innovative projects across five African countries facilitating the creation of an 80,000 acre conservancy, and guaranteeing regular payment to the local communities for the use of their land for tourism purposes. Visit : www.greatplainsconservation.com. Contact : Hilton Walker at hilton@greatplainsconservation.com. Best for conservation of cultural heritage, sponsored by Jamaica Tourist Board : Selena Travel LLC, Mongolia Mongolian inbound operator Selena Travel has worked with the nomadic community in Tuv to found and establish a nomadic cultural festival. Visit : www.selenatravel.com. Contact Zola at sales,sales@selenatravel.com. Best destination, sponsored by Conservation International : City of Cape Town, South Africa The City of Cape Town has developed a Responsible Tourism Charter which commits both the industry and the city government to address the local priorities and to report on progress. Visit : www.capetown.gov.za. Contact : Mansoor Mohamed at Mansoor.Mohamed@capetown.gov.za. The Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards is a collaboration between online travel directory responsibletravel.com; UK media partners Telegraph Travel and Geographical Magazine and World Travel Market who host the ceremony. Visit : www.responsibletourismawards.com. Contact: Claire Southern at press@responsibletravel.com. Lithuania Lithuania is a country in Northern Europe and the southernmost of the three Baltic states. Located along the southeastern shore of the Baltic Sea, it shares borders with Latvia to the north, Belarus to the southeast, Poland, and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad to the southwest. The Republic celebrated Vilnius as the European Capital of Culture in 2009 and is hoping to build on the interest generated during 2010. Vilnius is known for its Baroque UNESCO-listed old town and medieval buildings but, while the city is the country’s major gateway, it is hoped visitors will also explore Kaunas and Trakai. Trakai, which lies 28km west of Vilnius, is an historic city and lake resort and Kaunas, Lithuania‘s second city and lies at the heart of the country. Lithuania also hopes to promote its outdoor pursuits in the trade, with its coast offering some of the best beaches in Europe. Visit : www.LithuaniaTourism.co.uk. Contact : Augusta Jaudegyte at info@lithuaniatourism.co.uk. Leads from the less explored Caribbean Newly re-launched travel search engine www.nowfly.co.uk swerves off the beaten track in search of what’s new and not so obvious for 2009. Dive in Grenada Grenada is working towards becoming the dive capital of the Eastern Caribbean by 2012. There are currently 30 world-class dive sites and Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique all have unspoiled reef formations. British Airways flies twice weekly year-round. Arikok National Park, Aruba The Arikok National Park is home to a number of indigenous species of wildlife, flora and fauna typical of Aruba’s unique tropical desert climate. The 12.5 square mile park accounts for 18 per cent of the total land mass of the island. Long-distance hiking trail in Dominica The Caribbean’s first long-distance hiking trail is taking shape in Dominica. The Waitukubuli National Trail covers the 115 miles length of the island from north to south. Visit : www.nowfly.co.uk. Contact : Dan Hart at dan.hart@nowfly.co.uk. Azamara Club Cruises Azamara Cruises, a two-ship brand launched in 2007 with the 694-guest Azamara Journey and sister ship Azamara Quest, has been renamed Azamara Club Cruises. Azamara Club Cruises will visit 140 ports in 50 countries in 2010, with itineraries featuring overnight stays in Istanbul (Turkey) and Sorrento (Italy), a full three days and two nights in St Petersburg (Russia) and multiple overnight stays in Southeast Asia including Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Singapore and Hong Kong.
Visit : www.azamaraclubcruises.com. Contact : Briony Peters at bpeters@rccl.com. A place to stayAlliance members looking to take advantage of any of the following opportunities should be on assignment, with a commission or able to obtain one. The Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa, New South Wales, Australia The Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa, in the Greater Blue Mountains, New South Wales, Australia has soft opened. Located on the rugged Greater Blue Mountain World Heritage Area, the resort is built around a fully restored homestead within its own private conservation and nature reserve. The hotel has worked with the Australian Eco Foundation Inc (AEFI) in planting thousands of native trees along planned wildlife corridors to provide natural habitats for a variety of native species. The Emirates Hotels & Resorts property is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World. Visit : www.emirateshotelsresorts.com. Contact : Leisa Workman at lworkman@bell-pottinger.co.uk The W London – Leicester Square, London The new W London – Leicester Square, London opens in the summer of 2010.
Leicester Square is in the heart of London’s entertainment district and the hotel’s location will give guests access to the city’s theatres, restaurants, lounges and nightclubs and is within walking distance to Soho, Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus. W Hotels has a portfolio of 35 hotels worldwide and is set to double this number by 2011 with properties opening in Downtown New York, Hollywood, London, Paris, St. Petersburg, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Bali, Vieques Island, Koh Samui, and Verbier. Visit : www.whotels.com. Contact : Sarah-Jane Johnson at sarah-jane.johnson@starwoodhotels.com. Preferred Hotel Group Hotels that have recently joined Preferred Hotel Group include the : Liner, Liverpool, UK Carlton Savannah in Trinidad Wynfrey Hotel at Riverchase Galleria, Birmingham, Alabama Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa, Cape Town, South Africa Devon Valley Hotel, the Stellenbosch Winelands, South Africa Visit : www.preferredhotelgroup.com. Contact : Laura Duncan at Laura@lucre.co.uk. 9 hours capsule hotel, Japan The, 9 hours capsule hotel has opened in the heart of Kyoto, Japan, near the near Pontochio-dori and Gion geisha districts. Kyoto is a city in the central part of the island of Honshū, Japan with a population close to 1.5 million. Once the imperial capital of Japan, it is now the capital of Kyoto Prefecture. The capsule rooms includes Panasonic's advanced system for good sleeping by computerized control lighting. The hotels nine hour concept is that guests need three basic actions: taking a shower (1 hour), sleeping (7 hours), and getting dressed (1 hour).
The six-suite Peninsula House, in the Dominican Republic, has been voted best hotel in the Caribbean and second best hotel in the world category in the Conde Nast Traveler Best in the World Readers Choice awards. The Dominican Republic is a nation on the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean. The western third of the island is occupied by Haiti, making Hispaniola one of two Caribbean islands that are occupied by two countries. Visit : www.thepeninsulahouse.com. Contact : Rebecca Widness at widness@widnesspr.com. Broad Bay House, the Isle of Lewis, Scotland Broad Bay House in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis has been awarded 5 Gold Stars by tourist board VisitScotland. Lewis is the the largest island of the Western Isles or Outer Hebrides of Scotland. Many species of seabirds inhabit the coastal areas of Lewis including shag, gannets, fulmars, kittiwakes, guillemots and the ubiquitous seagulls. It is possible to spot golden eagles. Stornoway, the largest settlement on the island, has a population of about 8,000. One of only six guesthouses in Scotland to receive 5 Gold Stars, the Broad Bay House occupies an coastal position on a sweeping sandy beach with uninterrupted views across to the mountains on the mainland beyond. Visit : www.broadbayhouse.co.uk Contact : Caroline Keith at caroline@thekeithconsultancy.co.uk.
The 1,800 acres Peter Island Resort & and Spa is the largest private island in the British Virgin Islands and is surrounded by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Sir Francis Drake Channel. Accessible only by boat or helicopter, Peter Island’s private location makes it the destination for guests seeking a serene and calming getaway. Island Buy Outs at Peter Island Resort & Spa are available from £208,099 for five nights including taxes and all rooms and villas. The British Virgin Islands is a British overseas territory located in the Caribbean to the east of Puerto Rico. The Islands consist of the main islands of Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada and Jost Van Dyke, along with over fifty other smaller islands and cays. Approximately fifteen of the islands are inhabited. Visit : www.peterisland.com. Contact Kathryn Peel kathryn@grifcopr.com. Working with the Alliance The following travel partners and agencies have registered with the Alliance and are keen to work with Alliance travel writers, editors, broadcasters and photographers. Other Alliance partners and agencies can be found at www.itwalliance.com. PartnersChoose Suffolk Choose Suffolk is the county’s tourism and development agency, charged with promoting Suffolk as a premier tourism destination.
Visit : www.visit-suffolk.org.uk. Contact : at Richard Ginger at richard@choosesuffolk.com. Cruise West Cruise West specializes in exploration small-ship cruises to explore remote and distinctive destinations in Alaska, West Coast, Central America, Mexico, South Pacific and Asia. Small ship cruising allows for up close and personal cruising not offered by the traditional larger cruise lines. Cruise West’s small cruise ships – nine in all – hold between 78-138 guests, and the casual style onboard encourages relaxation and congenial interaction between guests and crew alike. Visit : www.cruisewest.com. Contact : Jerrol Golden at jerrolg@cruisewest.com. Eight Hotels Eight Hotels Australia is a privately owned boutique hotel collection with a reputation as Australia's pre-eminent boutique hotel specialist. Visit : www.eighthotels.com. Contact : Konstanze Werhahn at konstanze@eighthotels.com. Golden Beach Hotel This boutique Hotel, Bijilo, The Gambia is one of the newest in town, offering both standard rooms and 2 junior suites, all generously & modernly furnished, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, in superb gardens, located directly on an un-spoilt golden beach, superb for a memorable vacation or the business traveller. Apart from its own pleasant conference facilities, Golden Beach Hotel is only 3 minutes away from both the new Sheraton Conference Center and Kairaba. Visit : www.goldenbeachhotel.gm. Contact : Alieu Secka at gm@goldenbeachhotel.gm. Horizon Horse Trails Set within the stunning UNESCO recognised Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, Horizon offers a diverse riding portfolio, making it one of the most varied and action-packed horse riding vacations anywhere in the world. Their emphasis is on horses and horsemanship and with a herd of over 70 horses. Horizon can cater for all levels of rider. Visit : www.ridinginafrica.com. Contact : Laura Dowinton at horizonranch@telkomsa.net. AgenciesNobull Communications Nobull is a specialist travel PR agency with a comprehensive client portfolio including airlines, car rental, online retailers and hotel chains. Visit : www.nobull-communications.co.uk. Contact : Kally Carder at kally@nobull-communications.co.uk. Oxygen Public Relations Oxygen Public Relations is a news-oriented PR consultancy specialising in travel, tourism and leisure. Run by former journalist and broadcaster Peter Lilley who offers 20 years' first-hand experience of the media, Oxygen prides itself in producing quality information and comment on behalf of its clients and speedy responses to all press enquiries. Visit : www.oxygenpr.co.uk. Contact : Peter Lilley at info@oxygenpr.co.uk. The Tartan GroupThe Tartan Group is a leading PR firm, which specializes in travel, tourism, real estate and resort development. With offices in Victoria, Vancouver and affiliates across North America we create and build reputations so that companies and people may be successful. We use the full integration of media relations, communications planning, issues management, reputation management and community relations to enhance our client’s business development and goals. Visit : www.tartangroup.ca. Contact : Andrea Wickham-Foxwell at andrea@tartangroup.ca FirstLink Tourism FirstLink Tourism is a specialist representation, marketing and PR division of Aviareps PLC. FirstLink Tourism offers a range of services for Tourism Offices, Resorts and Destination Management Companies and Visitor and Convention Bureaux. Parent company, Aviareps PLC is the UK's leading General Sales Agency. It was founded in London in 1983. It is based in Gatwick, UK and has offices throughout Europe. Visit : www.firstlinktourism.com. Contact : Jemima Stiles at jemima.stiles@firstlinktourism.com. Hume Whitehead Hume Whitehead is a PR and marketing representation company supporting international destination, hotel and tour operator clients. Visit : www.humewhitehead.co.uk. Contact : Sue Whitehead at sue@humewhitehead.co.uk. Alerts
The Alliance alerts are ongoing independent press trip opportunities. The Inn on Fifth, a luxurious, 87-room boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Naples in Southwest Florida will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit www.innonfifth.com. Contact : Kelly Grass Prieto at kelly@hayworthcreative.com. Shepherd Neame ‘Britain’s oldest brewer’ invites Alliance members to review its selection of coastal and country Kentish inns and hotels. Visit : www.shepherd-neame.co.uk. Contact : Vicky Pilcher at vicky.pilcher@edwardsharvey.com. Great Hotels Organisation, representing over 200 of the world’s finest hotels and resorts worldwide through Great Hotels of the World and Special Hotels of the World would be pleased to consider offering press trip accommodation to Alliance members. Visit www.ghotw.com. Contact: Brooke Jester bjester@ghorg.com. Visit Chester and Cheshire and Visit Lincoln and Lincolnshire will be delighted to host Alliance members with a commission. Visit : www.visitchester.com and www.lincoln.gov.uk. Contact : Oliver Bennett at oliverbennett@blueyonder.co.uk. Swiss-Belhotel International, which manages hotels, resorts and residences throughout the Asia Pacific, Southeast Asia, China and The Middle East regions, will be pleased to consider offering press trip accommodation to Alliance members. Visit : www.swiss-belhotel.com. Contact : Ayla Hass at aylahaas@swiss-belhotel.com. Pembrokeshire, South West Wales will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members with a commission. Visit: www.pembrokeshire.com. Contact: Pat Edgar PRMatters@dsl.pipex.com The Rutland Hotel, Edinburgh, will be delighted to invite Alliance members to review this botique hotel. Visit www.therutlandhotel.com. Contact Yvonne or Fiona at info@nicheworks.co.uk. The Galapagos Islands : Quasar Expeditions would like to invite Alliance members to cover trips aboard the M/Y Grace, its vintage yacht in the Galapagos Islands. Visit : www.galapagosexpeditions.com/gracepresskit.php. Contact : Paul Schicke at paul@quasarex.com. Focus Hotels invite Alliance members to review their three and four-star properties located in key destinations across the UK. Visit : www.focushotels.co.uk. Contact : Eleanore Longley at eleanore@bacall.net. Champagne-Ardenne Tourisme, four departments boasting historic chateaux, walking & cycling routes, a variety of sports and superb natural scenery and of Champagne, will be pleased to consider press visits to Alliance members with a commission. Visit : www.tourisme-champagne-ardenne.comContact: Doug Goodman at doug@douggoodmanpr.com or on 0208 614 1448. The 5* Blythswood Square Hotel, Glasgow, formerly headquarters to the Royal Scottish Automobile Club, has been redeveloped by the Town House Collection Visit www.blythswoodsquare.com or www.thetownhousecollection.com. Contact: Jo Murphy at Jo@thespaprcompany.com. Aspects Holidays specialises in providing self-catering accommodation, from luxury apartments to traditional fisherman’s cottages in and around St Ives and the West Cornwall area of the UK. Aspects will be pleased to consider press visits to Alliance members with a commission. Visit www.aspects-holidays.co.uk. Contact : Karen Baker at karen@mercury-pr.co.uk. The Inn at Lathones, Scotland's only 4 star inn, is delighted to consider press trips from Alliance members. The 17th-century listed building near St Andrews is one of Scotland’s oldest coaching inns and boasts 21 recently refurbished external rooms/suites, an award-winning restaurant, an intimate stone-walled bar and converted stables that host regular music events. For more information visit: www.theinn.co.uk Contact: Lee MacGregor at lee@leemacgregorpr.com Yapham Cottages will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.yaphamcottages.co.uk. Contact: Karen Outred at ko@freelancepr.fsnet.co.uk. The Discovery Collection, independent specialist in boutique breaks to North Cyprus, Turkey, Puglia, Sicily, Malta and Gozo, will be happy to consider offering press visits to Alliance members. A varied programme includes beach and city breaks, twin-centre stays, walking holidays and special interest tours. Visit : www.thediscoverycollection.com. Contact: Jill Guest at jill@ocean-advertising.co.uk or on 020 7436 Frontier Travel organise tailor-made holidays to Canada in both the Summer (www.frontier-canada.co.uk) and the Winter (www.frontier-ski.co.uk). The company will consider offering individuals press trips for Alliance members. Contact: Dave Ashmore at dave@frontier-travel.co.uk or on +44 (0) 20 8404 2447. Sail Lofts St Ives, a group of 12 luxury holiday apartments just metres from Porthmeor Beach, will be pleased to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members with a commission. Visit: www.saillofts.co.uk. Contact: Cathryn Hicks at cathryn@douggoodmanpr.com. The Alfajiri Villas and Galdessa Camp would like to invite Alliance members to stay at Alfajiri Villas (www.alfajirivillas.com) or Galdessa Camp (www.galdessa.com).Visit : www.FazendinPortfolio.com. Contact Sarah Fazendin at sarah@fazendinportfolio.com. The Peat Inn and 5-star restaurant in St.Andrews, Scotland will provide Alliance members able to review the Inn will receive complimentary dinner, bed and breakfast including guest. Visit : http://www.thepeatinn.co.uk. Contact : Megan Davidson at megan@crimsonedge.co.uk. The Isles of Scilly will be delighted to consider offering travel and accommodation to Alliance members on assignment, with a commission or who are able to obtain one. Visit: http://www.simplyscilly.co.uk. Contact: Karen Baker at karen@mercury-pr.co.uk. The Park Hyatt Istanbul-Maçka Palas, Turkey will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.hyatt.com. Kathryn Peel on +44 (0) 207 385 7090 or at Kathryn@grifcopr.com. Helpful Holidays, UK will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.helpfulholidays.com. Contact: Pat Edgar at PRMatters@dsl.pipex.com. Jet2.com and Jet2holidays.com will be happy to consider offering flights and holiday opportunities. Contact: Louise Woodward at louise@lucre.co.uk. Wilderness Journeys will be delighted to consider offering press trip facilities to Alliance members. Visit : www.wildernessjourneys.com. Contact: Stevie Christie at stevie@wildernessjourneys.com. Divi Resorts, the Caribbean will be happy to consider accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.diviresorts.com. Contact: Jacqueline Burton at jburton@fwv-us.com. Charming Hotel Madeira will be pleased to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.charminghotelsmadeira.com. Contact: Cathryn Hicks at cathryn@douggoodmanpr.com. Sea Kayak Adventures explore Baja and Canada's newest marine parks and prolific whale watching destinations by sea kayak with Sea Kayak Adventures. Sea Kayak Adventures will be happy to provide press trip facilities to Alliance members. Visit: www.seakayakadventures.com. Contact: Nancy Mertz at info@seakayakadventures.com. The View Hotel, Monument Valley, Arizona, USA, which opened in September 2008, is situated on the Navajo Tribal Park, on the border of Arizona and Utah. The View Hotel will be delighted to consider offering accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.MonumentValleyView.com. Contact: Mike Finney at mike@azcomgroup.com. Choose Suffolk will be happy to support to commissioned travel writers with press trips to the UK county. Visit : www.visit-suffolk.org.uk. Contact : at Richard Ginger at richard@choosesuffolk.com. The Menzies Welcombe Hotel Spa & Golf Club, Stratford-upon-Avon will be delighted to offer dinner, bed and breakfast at this country house hotel to Alliance members able to review the property. Visit : www.menzieshotels.co.uk. Contact : Tanya Aspinwall at tanya@marketingaloud.co.uk Bike The Whites is New England’s inn-to-inn biking tour experience, which offers customized route planning for cyclists of all abilities, the scenic beauty of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Bike the Whites will be delighted to hear from Alliance members. Visit: www.bikethewhites.com. Contact: Marti Mayne at Marti.Mayne@BedandBreakfast.com. Rosen Hotels will be delighted to host Alliance members who will be in the Orlando area, at the new 1500-room, 14-story Rosen Shingle Creek. Visit www.rosenshinglecreek.com. Contact Mary Deatrick at mdeatrick@cfl.rr.com. The Peace and Plenty, Bahamas will be delighted to provide accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.peaceandplenty.com. Contact: Hazel Heyer at hazel_heyer@hotmail.com. The Grand Hyatt San Antonio, Texas is a 1003-room, 37-storey luxury hotel, which has just opened in the bustling heart of the Alamo City. The Grand Hyatt San Antonio, Texas will be happy to consider providing accommodation to Alliance members. Visit: www.hyatt.com. Contact: Alison Wood at Alison@grifcopr.com or on +44 (0)207 385 7090. Ranch Rider stays are steeped in tradition, allowing travellers to sample an authentic western experience.Ranch Rider will be pleased to consider press trip facilities to Alliance members. Visit: www.ranchrider.com. Contact: Siobhan at siobhan@tionlondon.co.uk. Alliance members looking to take advantage of any of the following opportunities should be on assignment, with a commission or able to obtain one. Travel products and servicesThe following providers of travel products and services will be happy to provide these to Alliance members in return for a credit or review. Magellan's Magellan's, one of the worlds most trusted source of travel supplies, provides a superior selection of travel products to make travel more comfortable, safe, and rewarding. The Magellan’s product range offers hundreds of useful and appreciated products and provides travelers with : a single source of state-of-the-art, quality travel products up-to-the-minute and well-researched information to meet the needs of all travelers, and an exceptional customer experience Visit : www.magellans.co.uk. Contact : Lynn Staneff at lstaneff@magellans.co.uk. Dollar rent a car Dollar rent a car will be delighted to offer a discount to Alliance members on car rental in the USA in return for a credit. Discounts will be agreed on a case-by-case basis. Visit : www.dollar.co.uk, Contact : Cheryl Richardson at Cheryl.Richardson@DTAG.com or on + 44 (0) 20 7391 4622 The Leisure Pass The Leisure Pass Group creates all-inclusive ‘smart’ passes, for cities around the world. The purchase price covers entrance to all attractions, fast-track entry at a number of attractions, and gives discounts at shops, theatres, service providers and restaurants. Launching with The London Pass, the programme also includes York, New York, Paris and Philadelphia. Alliance members can get review passes for the cities covered. Visit : www.leisurepassgroup.com. Contact :Andrew Campbell-edie at Andrew.Campbell-edie@Sirenpr.co.uk. Travel guidesThe following travel publishers will be happy to provide review copies to Alliance members. Anova Bookswww.anovabooks.com. Helen Ponting at hponting@anovabooks.co Berlitzwww.berlitzpublishing.com. Julia Spence at julia.spence@ukonline.co.ukBradt Travelwww.bradtguides.com. Debbie Hunter at debbie.hunter@bradtguides.com Brit's Guidewww.foulsham.com. Margaret Lashbrook at margaret.lashbrook@lineone.net or Sue Wilkins at wilkins@foulsham.com. Cicerone Visit : www.cicerone.co.uk. Contact : Sarah Spencer at sarah@cicerone.co.uk Eland Publishing www.travelbooks.co.uk. Barnaby Rogerson at barnaby@travelbooks.co.uk.
www.fisherstravelsos.com. Furgan Syed at furqan.syed@fisherstravelsos.com. Global Travel Publishers www.africa-adventure.com. Kate Bandos at kate@ksbpromotions.com. Globetrotters LogBookwww.globetrotterslogbook.com. Giedo Claes at giedo@globetrotterslogbook.com Inn House Publishingwww.innhousepublishing.com. Kathryn McWhirter at kathrynmcwhirter@btopenworld.com. Insightwww.insightguides.com. Julia Spence at Julia.spence@ukonline.co.uk. In your pocket guideswww.inyourpocket.com. Craig Turp at editor@inyourpocket.com. Jane’s Smart Art Guideswww.JanesSmartArt.com. Jane McIntosh at MJM@JanesSmartArt.com
Kuperard Publisherswww.kuperard.co.uk. Caroline Eden at caroline@kuperard.co.uk Lonely Planetwww.lonelyplanet.com. Europe, Middle East and Africa: Heather Carswell at heather.carswell@lonelyplanet.co.uk, North and Central America: Rand Freedman at rana.freedman@lonelyplanet.com.au; Australia, New Zealand and Asia: Brynony Cole at bryony.cole@lonelyplanet.com.au. Morris Communicationswww.themilepost.com. Contact Kate Bandos at kate@ksbpromotions.com. Oxygen Books city-litwww.oxygenbooks.co.uk Malcom Burgess at malcolm@oxygenbooks.co.uk Rough Guideswww.roughguides.com. Contact : press@roughguides. Turnleftwww.turnleftguides.comContact: Nick Buteau at nick@turnleftguides.com The International Travel Writers Alliance and AllWays The International Travel Writers Alliance The Alliance
The Alliance provides information and support to over 7,200 professionals who travel to write, broadcast or create images. You can see the caliber of Alliance members by visiting www.itwalliance.com and clicking on Members/member profiles. This section is updated weekly. Alliance services in brief
Through the Alliance we can reach and influence professional travel writers, editors, photographers and broadcasters by : placing information and images on the Alliance website distributing travel information and story ideas to professional travel writers, editors, broadcasters and photographers through our bi-monthly bulletins producing Destination dossiers, which are detailed media briefings sent to members and used by partners and their agencies for press pack information emailing Alliance alerts to members organising Destination networking events (linked to the destination dossiers) planning and managing individual and group press trips, and staging professional travel writer symposiums in key destinations AllWays
The AllWays package AllWays will comprises : AllWays traveller : the regular and special issue e-newsletters and updates for AllWays travellers AllWays online : a web archive of features, images and audio/visual streaming from the Alliance's professional writers, editors, broadcasters and photographers AllWays more : a series of mini-guides providing key information in a no frills format for destinations or travel pursuits, and the AllWays travel club : offering a wide range of travel discounts and incentives to AllWays travellers AllWays magazine : launches as phase two of the AllWays development, will be the quality end magazine for AllWays travellers, and AllWays care : will focus on travel opportunities where there is an emphasis on social, environmental and economic responsibility. Directory: bulletins bulletins -> Ian potter associates 16th January 2009 Specialist Agricultural Quota & Entitlement Brokers bulletins -> Rugby League Team Wears our Shirts! Equalities Minister Lynne Featherstone wears the shirt alongside Eagles’ team members bulletins -> Lgbt history Month Gets Ready for Summer bulletins -> 4th Sunday of Advent December 18, 2016 at 10 am bulletins -> Service above self bulletins -> Residential Smoke Detector Disposal bulletins -> November 14, 2012 (X) Action Required Due Date: April 1, 2013 Download 7.54 Mb. Share with your friends:
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