theinsider - boutique hotel heidelberg suites · five-star chic in buenos aires with...

TheInsiderTheInsider‘Out of this world experiences’‘Out of this world experiences’

Out of AfricaLodging at Private Ulusaba ReserveOut of AfricaLodging at Private Ulusaba Reserve

Hidden retreat in HangzhouAmanfayunHidden retreat in HangzhouAmanfayun

• Speaking with our VIP Buyers from UK and Germany • VIP Buyer Reception at Le Bristol, Paris• 10.10.10 Savoy reopening

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True Southeast Asia experts DMC ExotissimoTrue Southeast Asia experts DMC Exotissimo

India’s Oberoi VanyavilasLeading luxury jungle resort India’s Oberoi VanyavilasLeading luxury jungle resort

OCTOBER 2010 ISSUE

WLetter from the Editor

They want destinations and accommodation that reflect real, not manufactured, surroundings and service”.

What could be more authentic than discovering Bengal tigers at The Oberoi Vanyavilas; tracking the Big 5 at Ulusaba Private Game Reserve or exploring the rich cultural heritage of China atAmanfayun.

Back in London, after three years in the making one of the most eagerly awaited re-openings takes place in just a few days -10.10.10: The Savoy needs no introduction, but we offer a sneak preview of what's new at this great British hotel.

All in all, exciting times lie ahead for the world of luxury travel as highlighted at this year's ILTM. Only two months to go and we continue to announce exciting new additions - personally I'm eager to try out the full range of treatments including holisticfacials from Babor in our new Healing Lounge presented by Healing Hotels of the World. In this issue, we also find out what some of ILTM's European buyers are looking forward to discovering at this year’s show.

Enjoy this little taster of the ILTM experience - we look forward to welcoming you to the real thing very soon.

Kind regards, Debbie Joslin - Group Exhibition Director – Luxury Portfolio ■

elcome to the October Issueof TheInsider – the ‘out of this world’ experiences issue.

When we spoke to Herve Humler, the new President of Ritz-Carlton and ILTM Ultratravel panellist this month he said, “Our luxury customers are adventurous, self-confident, and looking for truly authentic travel experiences.

I dream of ILTM

ALTM unparalleled

I dream of ILTM

I dream of ILTM

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19In the know with GostelowMary Gostelow’s exclusive column for ILTM

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TheInsider is produced by ILTM and ILTM Asia Reed Travel ExhibitionsGateway House28 The QuadrantRichmond, Surrey TW9 1DNTel: +44 (0) 208 910 7994Email: [email protected]

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Cover Image: View of Sir Richard Branson’s private game reserve, Ulusaba, featured on pg 12

October 2010 TheInsider 3

VIP Buyer InterviewJeremy Sutton talks quintessentially about travel

Chester Buyer FeatureTake a look at this English city with a luxuriousheritage

Destination Feature:Listen to the silence of Jordan

AmanfayunA city of Heaven –Hangzhou’s best kept secret

Tiger Tiger:Explore your wild side with Oberoi Hotel’s Vanyavilas

Three of a luxury kindStarwood’s St. Regis unveils 3 new properties

Exhibitor News:From the Seychelles to Buenos Aires, find out what’s hot in luxury travel news

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A Croatian Hideaway

A Croatian Hideaway

Five-star Chic in Buenos Aires

With ultra-luxurious suites, a stunning pool, rejuvenating spa and Turkish bath, two top-notch restaurants and two intimate theatres, The Faena Hotel + Universe boutique hotel is a world apart in Argentina. Philippe Starckonce commented: “Faena Hotel+Universewas conceived as a spacious home, one large enough to house a tribe of energetic, talented people, like those who reside in Buenos Aires, as well as all the visitors who come to this city from across the world, seeking new experiences and inspiration.”Blending the city's vibrant past with its energetic present, The Faena is housed in a historic former granary in Buenos Aires’dynamic waterfront district: Puerto Madero. ■

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4 TheInsider October 2010

Voyage Of Discover


For more information visit: www.faenahotelanduniverse.comor visit them on stand A152 at ILTMView of boutique hotel The Faena Hotel + Universe

Below: View of suites at Heidelberg Suites, Germany

Located in ‘the most romantic city in Germany’, Heidelberg Suites are extraordinary villas dating from the turn of the century, restored and furnished by internationally renowned architect Michele Bönan. Guests are now invited to board the Heidelberg Suites Patria: a stunning yacht with an incredible interior design and an unforgettable Italian menu. The 1930s boat is ‘docked’ directly in front of the hotel on the river Neckar. About 50 guests can be seated on the boat which each evening at sunset, sets sail for a cruise through the Neckar valley.

For more information visit: www.heidelbergsuites.comor visit them on Stand T160 at ILTM

Part of the Seychelles archipelago, North Island floats on the azure clear waters of the Indian Ocean. With just 11 villas, each handcrafted in the distinct style of the Seychelles – the experience is a notch above luxurious and a step beyond exclusive. With dappled forest trails, sea kayaking, fishing or boating plus endless opportunities to snorkel, dive or submerge yourself in barefoot tranquility, North Island blends natural beauty with sheer luxury. However, similar to Song Saa, North Island is more than a tropical island retreat: fauna and flora endemic to the Seychelles flourish and turtles and Seychelles birds nest and live here once more. ■

For more information please visit www.north-island.com

Private island hideaways

North Island, Seychelles

Song Saa, Cambodia

In Cambodia's untouched Koh RongArchipelago, two pristine islands lie side by side. They are known locally as Song Saa -Khmer for 'The Sweethearts'.The Song Saa Private Island is as seductive as the name implies. Both intimate and luxurious, but above all in harmony with all the elements of nature that make this hideaway so special.Opening in November 2011, the Song SaaPrivate Island will feature 25 luxury overwater, rainforest and beach villas built with sustainable materials and with the deepest respect for the natural environment. At the resort’s heart is a world-class restaurant and lounge, spectacularly positioned just off the island’s shoreline and surrounded by sea. Guests can explore the islands’ reefs, wander among virgin rainforest and lie on the pure white sands of Song Saa’s beaches. ■

For more information please visit www.songsaa.com

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“The Savoy is always up to date and, if possible, a little ahead.”Rupert D’Oyly Carte, Company Chairman, 1930

The Savoy, a Fairmont managed Hotel, will reopen its doors on Sunday 10th October 2010. One of this year’s most eagerly anticipated openings, The Savoy has been undergoing the most ambitious restoration in British history. The hotel closed in December 2007 for a restoration that encompasses the entire building from the iconic entrance and the American Bar to Savoy Grill and the 268 guestrooms and suites.

“We are very excited to reopen The Savoy”, comments KiaranMacDonald, General Manager.“We are aware of the place that the hotel holds in many people’s affections and we firmly believe that the hotel will exceed people’s expectations and reclaim its position as one of the world’s great hotels.”

The new interiors are in the spirit of the hotel’s two main design aesthetics, Edwardian and Art Deco and have been conceived by world-renowned designer, Pierre Yves Rochon.

The Savoy’s reopening will reveal a number of notable highlights including the complete remodel of the legendary River Restaurant, the addition of a luxurious new two bedroom Royal Suite and the relaunch of 38 River Suites and Guestrooms with stunning views over the River Thames. ■

For more information visithttp://www.the-savoy.com/ or visit them on stand U120 at ILTM.

Taking the luxury lead again


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From top: The famous entrance of the Savoy, London; View of the River Thames from one of the Savoy’s Suites; The Savoy bar just a new look.

For further information, please visit www.stregis.comor visit them on stand P190 at ILTM

Starwood’s luxury brand St. Regis, will imminently open three new luxurious hotels in Osaka, Puerto Rico and Tibet.

First to open this month is the St. Regis Osaka in the heart of beautiful Midosuhi, the Champs Elysées of Osaka. The hotel’s stunning décor means it will be one of the most luxuriously appointed living spaces in Japan.

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November 2010 sees the first St. Regis hotels to open in the Caribbean and China, introducing unparalleled luxury and bespoke service to two of the world’s most beautiful destinations.

The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort in Puerto Rico is ideally located on a former coconut plantation nestled between the lush El Yunque rainforest and the tranquil waters of the Espiritu Santo River. The spectacular 483-acre resort embraces the island’s natural beauty and is destined to set new standards of service and luxury for Puerto Rico, including a 10,000 sq ft Remède Spa and a magnificent golf course.

Located on the ‘roof of the world’, the St. Regis Lhasa Resort in Tibet is 3,680 meters above sea level and the first international luxury hotel in Tibet. It features 150 oversized rooms and villas and 12 suites plus an Iridium Spa and ballroom. ■

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Clockwise from top left: St. Regis Bahia Beach; Osaka Yuri suite; Entrance to St Regis Bahia Beach; Osaka Rue d’Or Bistro

Elytour Paris, the luxury incoming agency specialising in bespoke tours throughout France, has introduced an exclusive initiation into ‘les arts de la table’ in Paris. Discover the secrets of the ultimate in savoir vivre table design in the very heart of the world’s capital of elegance.The day includes a dedicated table setting workshop at the Haviland boutique in rue Royale, which specialises in porcelain, silver and gold work and is synonymous with Limoges porcelain. The authentic experience also includes a visit to the oldest Lalique showroom to view some of the exquisite pieces from the inventor of modern jewellery, who was also a master glassmaker. Guests are also invited to the Daum house to see the manufacture of glassmaking, crystal and Nancy pâte de verre [glass paste] at first hand. ■

For more information, see www.elytour-paris.com

Les Arts de la Table

ILTM Networking Cocktail at Hotel Le Bristol, Paris


Photos from VIP Buyer Reception at Le Bristol. For further information visit http://www.lebristolparis.com/or stand D210 at ILTM.

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Eat, Pray and Love with ExotissimoWith 16 offices in countries including Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos and Myanmar, destination management company, Exotissimo Travel, are true Southeast Asia experts.

Their local and expatriate staff possess a passion for their countries and for travel and a freedom to create dedicated luxury itineraries across the region.

Specialising in authentic experiences, Exotissimo Travel has now launched a new full–day tour in Bali that is inspired from the bestselling Elizabeth Gilbert post-divorce globetrotting memoir ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ .

Louise Nathan, Exotissimo Group Product Manager says, “We are excited to be able to offer this new day-trip to our clients, adding a new dimension to the existing Indonesian itineraries. Beyond the idyllic beaches, Bali is an incredible destination blessed with a rich culture and strong sense of identity.

“For Exotissimo it is important that clients are the option to learn more about this, as well as

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being able to experience genuine insights into everyday life on the island.”

The tour begins with a blessing from a local priest, followed by a personal meeting with a Balinese astrologer who will reveal more of participants’ destinies using ancient methods. The day also includes traditional worship offerings in a Balinese temple and a hands-on cooking class and ends with a visit to a sumptuous spa and a well-deserved Balinese Massage. ■

For more information please visit http://www.exotissimo.com/ or visit them on stand number E151 at ILTM.


Exotissmo caters to all kinds of adventures: from active holidays to spiritual or philanthropic endeavours

ILTM Ultratravel Forum

For further information on the ILTM Ultratravel Forum, visit

www.iltm.net/forumBelow: One of 2 panels at the ILTM 2009 Ultratravel Forum

Our luxury customers are adventurous, self-confident, and looking for truly authentic travel experiences. They want destinations and accommodation that reflect real, not manufactured, surroundings and service. This gives the luxury industry the opportunity to involve their visitors in that ‘sense of place’ we always like to talk about when discussing travel.

Finding and satisfying high-yield travellers in today’s market

In years past, our luxury customers were traditionally white males, middle aged, walking through the lobby in an Armani suit. Today’s affluent customer is not as easily recognized: younger, dressed more casually, demanding less formality, and rejecting any experience considered to be ‘faux’.

Most recently we have reached out to our affluent customers in a way that is quite different for The Ritz-Carlton. We have learned that guest loyalty programs – especially in places like Asia - can make the difference in attracting their business. The difference between our program and others is we have partnered with other luxury brands, like Abercrombie & Kent and Vera Wang to reward guests with experiences both exclusive and memorable.

To gain high yield travellers, hotels must find destinations where economic growth is making for a new class of wealthy and discerning customers. This accounts for new hotels emerging in Asia and the Middle East. Equally, ILTM continues to exceed our expectations in allowing us to meet with colleagues from important emerging markets — our customers of the future.

Satisfying our high yield travellers is not something that has changed over the years. Personalized service, attention to detail, unique dining options, exotic spas, and world class golf all make for a guest willing to try The Ritz-Carlton brand and become loyal. ■


Herve Humler, new President of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company and one of the founders of this luxury brand, shares his thoughts on the subjects for ILTM 2010’s Ultratravel Forum on Monday 6 December.

How have the demands of the Luxury Traveller changed?

Just as there is a ‘new normal’ in the global economy, this is also the way even luxury customers view their travel expectations. While they may not vacation as long and go as far as they might have when the economy was stronger, for the truly well travelled luxury customer, it is important to find new and exotic destinations beyond the usual.

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Nestling in the natural beauty of the wilds, The OberoiVanyavilas is India’s leading luxury jungle resort on the edge of the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve.

Voted number 1 in the World in this year’s Travel + Leisure reader survey to determine the World’s Top 100 Hotels, there is no doubt that the Vanyavilas's exotic, wild location has a lot to do with its appeal. Ranthambore National Park is one of the top national parks in India, and best places to see a tiger in its natural environment.Tiger sightings are most frequent during the months of May and June while it is warm during the day and the mornings and evenings are pleasant.

The resort setting is picture-perfect with a dramatic watercourse and sun-kissed private decks. The luxury tents with finely embroidered canopies, luxurious bathrooms and private walled gardens are in perfect contrast to the ruggedness of the jungle.After an encounter with the rugged beauty of nature, discover the sheer pleasure of relaxation. The Oberoi Spa and fitness tent are the ideal places to do just that. The Spa is set over the lake, past turquoise and lapis blue tiled pools,in a fountained courtyard and offers an elaborate menu of spa treatments and therapies, aimed at relieving stress and promoting a deep sense of wellbeing. Perfect after an exciting day's tiger spotting in the Reserve. ■

“Tiger Tiger Burning Bright”

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For more information visit: www.oberoihotels.com/oberoi_vanyavilas or visit them on stand U129 at ILTM.


Above and below right: Rooms fit for a MaharajahBelow: The majestic Bengal tiger surveys his surrounds

Out of Africa

Ulusaba offers guests the choice of two lodges, Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge. Rock Lodge is perched high on the summit of a koppie (rocky hill) offering breath taking panoramas of the bush below, while 500m away, Safari Lodge is situated in the very heart of bush life, along the banks of the dry Mabrak riverbed.

Many guests choose to split their stay between both lodges and have the advantage of keeping the same Ranger and Tracker. The Ulusaba family of 119 individuals includes some of the finest and most qualified rangers and trackers in the reserve, who guarantee the experience of a lifetime on game drive. Most of the staff hail from the surrounding villages so guests benefit from authentic South African hospitality. In addition, Ulusaba’sinternationally renowned chefs have developed numerous pan-African dishes influenced by many African cultures, flavoursand spices.

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For more info visit http://www.virginlimitededition.com or visit them on stand M172 at ILTM.

October 2010 TheInsider 312 TheInsider October 2010

Sir Richard Branson's Private Game Reserve, Ulusaba is set in the heart of the Sabi Sand reserve on the border of the Kruger National Park in South Africa.

There are twice daily game drives, one in the early morning and one in the afternoon, both lasting for approximately 3½ hours. The more adventurous may opt for a walking safari after breakfast to learn about the local plants and wildlife and for more in-depth knowledge on how to track animals.

Guests seeking relaxation can soak up the sun by the pools, read a book in the lounge areas or relax with a spa treatment in the Aroma Boma Spa. There is also the option of a game of tennis or a work out in the gym or even a cultural, wildlife or scenic tour, which may include a helicopter trip or a tour of the local community. ■

Amanfayun is a hidden retreat of stunning restored village dwellings on the outskirts of the historic Chinese city of Hangzhou. Described by Marco Polo as 'the city of heaven', today Hangzhou is still regarded as the most beautiful city in China due to its picturesque West Lake, countless pagodas, historic temples, botanical gardens, vast wetland areas and famous Longjing Tea Plantations.

Amanfayun has been named after a Tang Dynasty village, which once inhabited the site. It consists of a remaining 47 stone courtyard village dwellings that once housed workers who tended the surrounding tea plantations and lies within a pilgrimage circuit of five significant Buddhist temples, currently under review by UNESCO as both a cultural and religious heritage site.Some of the village dwellings date back

more than a century and have been constructed using traditional methods. Roofs are clay tile, whilst walls are constructed of brick, earth and lighter timber structures. Interior floors are stone tiles whilst aged stone pathways connect the lodgings.

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A CITY OF HEAVEN


Inside the serene setting of Amanfuyan

Monks heeding the call to prayer

The ResortAmanfayun offers 42 rooms, suites and villas, including the Amanfayun Villa (comprising two king-size bedrooms, a separate spacious lounge, a courtyard and a private massage treatment room). Due to the unique nature of the structures, no two rooms are identical.

Whilst respecting the integrity of the original village dwellings, all accommodations have the comforts of under-floor heating, air conditioning and Wi-Fi internet connections. They feature natural finishes open-grain elm wood furniture including daybeds and dining suites, and dark wood Chinese lattice screens which separate the various living spaces.

The restaurant is the resort’s main dingin facility and the only outlet that servers Western cuisine, but there is

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also the Village Eatery providing local Hangzhou specialties and featuring an open kitchen and a terrace for al fresco dining. The homely Tea House, provides traditional tea service along with a variety of handmade sweet and savoury snacks.

Amanfayun also offers a relaxed lounging area, a cigar room, informal sitting and reading rooms and a library of books and documentary DVDs (both in Chinese and English) on the history and culture of China.

Central to Amanfayun's status as a relaxing retreat is the resort's Aman Spa, which consists of five buildings set around tranquil courtyards and surrounded by bamboo groves, tea bushes and magnolia trees. There is a Reflexology room for traditional foot

massages, a movement studio with an Aman Pilates studio, separate Tai Chi, yoga and meditation room and a fully-equipped gym located directly across the courtyard. Massage and body treatments draw from traditional Chinese massage and Reflexology, as well as from ancient Asian healing therapies. ■

For further information, see www.amanresorts.com or visit them on stand O100 at ILTM.

Classically Chinese: No two rooms at Amanfayun are the same

Destination Feature: Jordan

Listen to the Silence of Jordan

Jordan embraces Middle Eastern history. The Nabateans of Petra, biblical characters, classical city builders and crusader armies have all played roles across a dramatic landscape of red sandstone canyons, desert expanses and salt-laden waters. Each has left their mark in churches bursting with mosaics, colonnaded streets and impregnable fortresses.

The Rose-Tinted City and beyondPetra is one of the most famous world heritage sites and has recently been voted one of the new wonders of the world. The draw of Jordan is Petra, but it is by no means the only one. Ummayad palaces, Graeco-Roman cities, ancient churches and crusader castles are found throughout the country and define the luxury tourism trail in Jordan.

The lure of the Dead SeaThe Jordan Rift Valley is a dramatic, beautiful landscape, which at the Dead Sea, is over 400 metres below sea level. The lowest point on the face of the earth, the warm, soothing, buoyant water itself is a rich, cocktail of salts and minerals, some ten times saltier than sea water. A series of good roads, excellent hotels with spa and fitness facilities, as well as archaeological and spiritual discoveries make this region as enticing to today’s international elite visitors as it has always been to kings, emperors, prophets and pilgrims, including King Herod the Great and the beautiful Egyptian Queen, Cleopatra.

WadisCarving down from the desert plateau to the depths of the Dead Sea and Rift Valley, Jordan's wadis are a haven for the more adventurous, whether visitors choose to hike down Wadi Feynan to spend time at the Ecolodge there, or tackle the deep pools and boulder chokes of the wet descent of WadiMujib.It was T.E. Lawrence who brought Wadi Rum to public attention, and his description of the desert region as ‘vast, echoing and godlike’ sums it up perfectly. The red sand and towering sandstone mountains make this a deservedly popular destination.

A well-travelled bridge between sea and desert, east and west, Jordan is a modern nation of mesmerizing beauty and contrasts – highlighted in the first Iphone application dedicated to Jordan and launched by the Jordan Tourism Board in October. ■

From the majesty of Petra to the rock formations of the Wadi Rum and eerie waters of the Dead Sea, Jordan is a place steeped in history and beauty.

For more information please visit http://www.visitjordan.com/or visit them on stand G141 at ILTM.


The city of Chester dates back almost 2,000 years to 79 AD when it was founded as a Roman fort. Chester is a chronicle of old England with architecture steeped in history from Roman, Medieval, Tudor, Georgian and Victorian ages.

What’s more Chester is home to some of the pioneers of the UK’s luxury travel industry: ITC Classics; Elegant Resorts; Azure; Eden Collection and Seasons. We speak to some of them here…

Chester: An English city with a luxurious heritage

“We have now just finished the production of our 2011 brochures and are looking forward to a successful selling year, which has started well for us. For 2011 we have our core products and brochures but have also produced a standalone Africa brochure and a standalone USA brochure, to give ER clients even more choice and specialist knowledge in these areas. In addition to this we have just launched our exclusive Expeditions programme in association with 360 Elite, a niche, high end offering to some of the world’s most famous landmarks, terrain and mountains, it includes a 5 year Everest Plan...for those who have done everything and want to (literally) conquer the world!

At ILTM we are looking forward to catching up with a lot of our suppliers and planning for 2011, it is also a great place to socialise with suppliers, new and old and get to see people we don’t see all year as well as those we do! We will also be on the lookout for new product to add to 2011 and moving forward to 2012, for us it is very important to remain at the forefront of the industry and know what is happening on the future, our client expect this of us and ILTM is a great place to do it.” ■ Alison Scott, Commercial Director, Elegant Resorts

“The world of Azure Collection is ever expanding with the growth of our India and African touring programmes. We are also refining our Far East product portfolio which will I hope to develop through the new contacts that will be made through ILTM. The addition of this programme to The Azure Collection paves the way for bigger things!” ■

Claire Metharam, Product Manager, Azure Collection

Above: The home of Elegant Resorts, The Old Palace

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Above: The historic town city centre of Chester

“It's a really exciting time for us right now right now as we go through re-branding and re-positioning Seasons (no longer 'in style') to further cement our position as a leading luxury tour operator moving forward. The new look and feel is now making its first appearance with the recent launch of our Ski brochure and as we focus our strategy on moving to geographical specialist sales, the next launch will be our portfolio of dedicated stand alone Caribbean & North America, Middle East, Far East & Indian Ocean and Europe brochures. Even more exciting will be the launch of our brand new tailor made brochure due out in early November with over 70 pages dedicated

to Africa with exciting new introductions such as Tanzania and Rwanda.One of the core values at the centre of everything we're building and working towards is the trade, be it our agent or suppliers partners. ILTM is hugely important for us as an opportunity to strengthen relationships, set plans for growth and mutual successes in 2011 and of course to catch up with friends within the industry and say our huge thanks for their continued support. Our presence will be strong and it promises to be productive and fun which is always a bonus.” ■Jo Clarkson, General Manager Sales, Seasons (right)

“ITC Classics has just completed work on its Pure Platinum Brochure that will be completed and mailed from October 2010, we have been working on a number of new sections within the brochure which include touring, villas and cruises. We will also be offering something unique which is still a top secret so look out for the brochure!ILTM is one of most important trade shows for ITC Classics so it is imperative that we attend. The show provides a platform for the business to meet with existing suppliers, to agree our strategy moving forward and to also find new ventures.” ■Jane Heywood, Head of Product & Marketing, ITC Classics

What’s currently happening in the world of our VIP Buyers from Germany?

It has been quite a whirlwind ride for 029 – The Experience Club. 029 has evolved into a company that provides luxury travel and lifestyle services for private and corporate clients. We have discovered a niche where we collaborate with brands to offer exceptional travel experiences in conjunction with a company’s existing promotional activities. What better way to increase interest in a product launch than to neatly package it with gorilla tracking in Rwanda, front row access at New York Fashion Week, or yachting in the Seychelles?

029 is steadily making waves with high profile companies in various industries and provides exclusive travel experiences to their network of private clients which hail from over 80 countries.

With such a demanding portfolio of clients, we at 029 need to excel at our core competency which is creating access to locations, events and top personalities.To enhance our current access, we head to Cannes every year to attend the ILTM, one of the travel industry’s ‘must attend’ events where we keep up-to-date on industry trends, carry out our 2011 and 2012 purchasing, close contracts and enhance our presence in the industry..029’s CEO Xavier Sarras sees ILTM as “the ideal place to network on a high level with top decision makers from various industries. Anyone who is worth their salt when it comes to luxury travel and events is at the ILTM, and so are we.” ■

Xavier Sarras (right)CEO 029ZEROTWONINE GmbHFrankfurt / Germanyhttps://zerotwonine.com/

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Home of luxury’Home of luxury’Home of luxury’

Atelier Voyage founders´ desire is to bridge the existing gap between the concept of luxury and culture, as their cosmopolitan team brings forth its passion for worldwide travel and contemporary cultural trends to its German-speaking clientele.In order to enhance the unique dynamic that exists between luxury travel products and vibrant cultures worldwide, Atelier Voyage is now in the process of fine-tuning its services to create a Club for those in need of ultimate advice and expertise. Opening both virtually and in a second location as early as 2011, Atelier Voyage Club will continue to bring exciting high society events for VIP clients, while pampering them with exceptional travel benefits. ILTM is the most inspiring event of the year. In fact, we expectan intense exchange during this gathering of travel experts -conducive to transforming the ordinary into extraordinary experiences. Indeed, Atelier Voyage is thrilled to discover like-minded individuals and businesses at ILTM - creating solid bonds leading to fruitful results. Ultimately, ILTM provides thenecessary groundwork to enable Atelier Voyage to surpass the expectations of its loyal clients wherever they may choose to go. ■

Gabriel D. D. Donida & Gerhard LindermeirManaging Partners, Atelier Voyage GmbH (both right)

First contact with Virgin Galactic at ILTM…

History in the making…blending travel "savoir-faire" with cultural "trends"

DESIGNREISEN opened the first concept store for luxury holidays in Europe. Under the theme of fine travelling DESIGNREISEN brings together three unique business ideas in one store: a bar and a gourmet restaurant, luxury travel and architecture and interiors.ILTM is the most important event in the luxury travel industry. For many years now, I have met the most important decision makers in Cannes and all meetings have been very efficient. Further more the show is perfectly organised. ■

Christoph Berner, Director of Sales & Marketing, Designreisen GmbH(left)

DESIGNREISEN is a tour operator specialised in highly individual luxury holidays with customers all over Germany and abroad. DESIGNREISEN has firmly established a reputation as one of the market leaders in the luxury holiday market in Germany. Our name has become synonymous with quality holidays and first class personal service. DESIGNREISEN has recently won the IF design award for the best end consumer communication in Germany. The DESIGNREISEN TravelBook is a new very exclusive way to present our hotels and round trips. DESIGNREISEN is the exclusive “Virgin Galactic Accredited Space Agent” in Germany and we have already sold 5 Tickets (US$200,000 per ticket).

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Q. The word luxury is too often bandied about, what does luxury travel mean to you?

A. Luxury travel to me is about enriching experiences, and with not enough hours in the working week -relaxation. The luxury travel concept should formulate the full life cycle of your journey: from unparalleled service, knowledge and care when planning your trip, to seamless transfers and connections, an exceptional money-can’t-buy experience through to the memories that remain upon your return. Luxury is an individual preference –time, escapism, personalisation, well-being, uniqueness, enrichment, value etc. No individual is the same so no one holiday should be the same.

Q. What recent shifts in luxury lifestyle trends have you witnessed and how has this impacted Quintessentially Travel’s offering?

A. Lead time for bookings is a major shift that has changed - since the recession struck, time-poor people have found last minute bookings are the only way to book travel. While they still value enriching travel experiences they will only start to consider / plan these close to their desired departure date.

Q. What do you look for from luxury travel products in order to meet your client’s expectations?

A. It is essential that we partner with the right people and products with similar values to ourselves: service and standards are everything. Since we create tailor-made itineraries to some of the globe’s most glamorous, sought after and remote destinations, we only recommend the most elite and elegant hotels that we have stayed in or know on a personal level – there is no room for imperfection.

Q. What do you predict the future holds for the luxury travel industry?

A. Consumers are becoming savvier and they will continue to seek out unique experiences. Today's increasingly well travelled individuals want new, above-and-beyond experiences to be intrigued, entertained and enlightened and to access the inaccessible. We will also see a rise in consumers investing in experts to create the lives and travel experiences these consumers desire. In the short term, lead times will certainly continue to remain short even on complex bookings, but over time this will gradually change. ■

For more information contact [email protected] call +44 (0) 845 224 6915.

Alternatively visit www.quintessentiallytravel.com or visit them on stand N199 at ILTM.

VIP Buyer Interview

Q. With an excellent black book of contacts, can you tell us about your offering of your most exclusive range of experiences?

A. When a holiday is booked with Quintessentially Travel we don’t just provide the Travel service but also the Quintessentially service and its vast knowledge and access into the global luxury lifestyle market. Our unusual travel requests come in all shapes and sizes, be it extreme last minute bookings (a request for a private jet from England to South Africa with a suite and VIP tickets to the FIFA 2010 USA vs England match just 15 hours before kickoff), to large scale travel itineraries (round the world trip by boat and train – no flights allowed) or access to the inaccessible (a praying trip to Mecca, living with Aboriginals in Australia, a private banquet on the Great Wall of China) Anything is possible with the right amount of money and we cater to anything as long as it is moral and legal.

Q. Where are the emerging hot destinations currently in demand from Quintessentially Travel clients?

A. Global travellers are getting more courageous with their travels, and expanding their horizons. We are seeing increased interest in Montenegro, Mozambique, Laos, China, Syria, Croatia, Brazil, Argentina and Zimbabwe.

Q. What is your ultimate luxury travel experience?

A. In terms of the travel and destination itself, it would have to be safari in Tanzania staying for seven nights at Singita Sasakwa Lodge for the migration of the Wildebeest followed by a week lying on the beach on North Island in the Seychelles. I would also have to class relaxation as my other luxury travel experience as to me this is invaluable!

This month we speak with Jeremy Sutton, MD & Founder of Quintessentially Travel


Media Partner Feature

A few years ago one of Mexico's biggest banking groups, Banamex, decided to invest some of its money in old 'henequeneras' -haciendas - on the Yucatan Peninsula.

Once magnificent homes of wealthy millionaires, time had forgotten these treasures and they have gradually been restored to their days of splendour. Once renovated, they were transformed into four boutique hotels (now managed by Starwood Luxury Collection). These days, around Mérida (Yucatan city capital) there are hundreds of haciendas that now offer luxury travellers the opportunity to spend a night in an old-fashioned, unique style.

This fabulous destination is the opportunity to experience the traditional local culture, not only through visiting archaeological sites, but also now with the opportunity to live side-by-side with the local people, for whom life still revolves around the haciendas.

The haciendas were very successful businesses during the late nineteenth century. Their product was unique: sisal, also known as henequen (a natural fibre used to create rope) which was unable to grow anywhere else in the world. Because of this, hacienda owners became prosperous over a relatively short period of time, and to demonstrate their wealth, they built European-style palaces in the middle of the peninsula. However , the arrival of synthetic fibres meant that sisal lost its power and influence — and so did the owners of the haciendas.

Those interested in sharing the experience of hacienda owners in days of old, are advised to start with or end with the Merida or Campeche (both important cities on the peninsula with much to do and see). A good idea is to begin with Hacienda Uayamón, near Cahmpeche capital city, and then spend a week going from one hacienda to the other: from Santa Rosa to San José and then to the biggest, a magnificent, Temozón. In the middle, there is much to experience, from archaeological sites to natural adventures, such as spending a whole afternoon at Santa Rosa botanical garden, which is managed by the local community. But however you plan to spend your time, living 'the haciendas experience' is probably one of Mexico’s most beautiful adventures.■

The real Mexican experience: the Haciendas

María PellicerEditor of Travesías México

Photos: Hacienda Temozon, A Luxury Collection Hotel. For more information please visit http://www.starwoodhotels.comor visit them on stand P190 at ILTM.


In the know with Gostelow…Contributors

Mary Gostelow is owner-editor of the unique and influential monthly Gostelow Report and is also the Editor-at-Large of www.WOW.travel, the online magazine of Kiwi Collection INC. Mary also shares her unique insights via ‘Gostelow LIVE’ market intelligence, distributed daily from both ILTM events – including all the latest news and views from the show floor on www.iltm.net/cannes and www.iltm.net/asia ■

Hotels that have amazing art collections attract special attention. When it comes to Old Masters, the Tiepolos at The Cavalieri, The Waldorf Astoria Collection, Rome, stand out – take afternoon ‘Tea With Tiepolo’, sitting in front of Ulysses discovers Achilles among the daughters of Lycomedes. For global modern art, think of Ritz-Carlton Millenia, Singapore’s collection, including Dale Chihuly and Frank Stella. Ellerman House, Cape Town, has added to its 400-strong South African art collection: the year-old semi-underground Ellerman Contemporary gallery showcases Angus Taylor and other top artists. For Japanese talent, admire Mieko Yuki’s masks and Mitsuko Miwa’s paintings at Park Hyatt, Tokyo. Talking of art, Patricia Urquiola, the designer of Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Barcelona, and W Retreat and Spa, Vieques, has done the sets for Monteverdi’s The Coronation of Poppea, currently playing in Bilbao’s Teatro Arriaga.

Culture can be inside – or art. The stunning ten-acre near-diagonal gardens of Grand Hotel Timeo, Taormina (a new Orient-Express hotel) are being ‘tweaked’, I hear, by Dr Shirley Sherwood. The hotel I literally side-on to this Sicilian hilltop town’s famous Greek Amphitheatre, so you can imagine the past while looking across at Mount Etna, in the distance. At the base of another antiquity, Machu Picchu, Inkaterra’s Pueblo has gardens that resonate with humming-birds, and over 300 species of orchids.

More antiquities. The only way to enjoy Egypt’s Valley of the Kings is to take a Nile cruise. Oberoi’s Zahra, which has 27 hotel-like ‘rooms’, all with full-wall windows, warrants top marks on quality (for excursions, you share a guide with no more than five other passengers). As an alternative, Jolley’s Travel offers Alexander the Great Yacht on the Nile, a 30-cabin which, like Zahra, has admirable wellness facilities, and wireless connectivity.

To travel further, from Cairo to Cape Town by air, land and water, consider Rovos Rail’s epic continent-covering itineraries. For bespoke trips throughout South America, Condor Travel can personalise your excursions to Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile and Ecuador. Trails of Indochina, Vietnam, offers the same for Asia. For an ultimate traditional Japanese ryokanexperience, try Hoshinoya Karuizawa hot springs resort, an hour from Tokyo.■

ILTM/ILTM Asia Gostelow Report: Oct 2010


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