With a 89,000 km long coastline, Europe is a maritime continent which derives huge societal benefits from its seas and oceans. Coastal regions host almost half the population of EU countries with a sea border. To consolidate and reinforce the sustainable use of its marine waters and to meet the grand challenges and opportunities of the future, Europe has developed holistic policies, including the Integrated Maritime Policy and its environmental pillar, the Marine Strategy Framework Directive. To support the implementation of these policies Europe will need to invest more in marine research and technology. The Ostend Declaration, a statement that will be prepared and discussed by Europe’s marine science experts and policy makers at the occasion of the high-level EurOCEAN 2010 Conference in Ostend (12-13 October 2010), will outline the research and policy needs for the next decade.

More than 50% of Europe’s territory consists of seas and oceans. Half of the global oxygen production is derived from ocean phytoplankton and oceans are the main drivers of the Earth’s climate. On top of that, many growing economic sectors rely on the seas for transport, extraction of living and non-living resources, energy-supply, tourism, etc. Only with a substantial amount of high-quality research and technology will Europe be able to cope with the growing pressures on our seas and oceans, and to take advantage of the opportunities they present in a sustainable way.

According to Maria Damanaki (EU-Commissioner for Maritime Affairs & Fisheries): “It is increasingly clear that maritime policy has very wide implications and a real potential to fuel sustained recovery and growth across Europe and the world. Our goal has to be to create jobs and to foster growth in an environmentally friendly manner”.

Climate change

European marine waters are already affected by climate change. Two thirds of the commercial fish stocks in the North sea have moved northwards over the last 25 years. “As a result of climate change and ocean acidification one thing is certain: in 50 to 100 years time, our marine ecosystems are going to be very different from those we know today… the scary thing is, we do not know how different” (Professor Michael Thorndyke, Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences). This is also very much the case for our knowledge of marine microorganisms, which we now know play a critical role in regulating the cycle of carbon and nutrients in the oceans, but remain largely unstudied. Marine observations and data are now more essential than ever for monitoring the rate and scale of environmental change. There are clear economic benefits: it is estimated that a 25% reduction in uncertainty in future sea-level rise will save 100 million EUR annually in European coastal defences.

Marine biotechnology: food security, environmental and human health

Europe is a major consumer and the world’s number three importer of fishery and aquaculture products. The annual output of the European fish processing industry amounts to 23 billion EUR, or three times that of the catch sector. Whereas globally marine and inland aquaculture production is quickly catching up with capture fisheries (now representing about 50% of the food-fish production), EU aquaculture production is much more static at a level of 1.3 million tonnes of fish, shellfish and crustaceans, generating a turnover of 3.2 billion EUR and supporting 65,000 jobs. “It seems we have the knowledge and tools to manage fisheries sustainably, but this will help the rising demand for seafood only to a limited extent. Better knowledge on how to develop sustainable aquaculture of marine organisms is needed to help feed a growing world population”, states Dr. Ole Arve Misund (Institute of Marine Research, Bergen).

The oceans and seas have a high potential for discovery of bioactive compounds, given the rich and unique marine biodiversity. More than fifteen such compounds from marine organisms are currently in clinical development for novel drugs and several marine-derived drugs and nutraceuticals are already on the market, mainly for the treatment of cancers.

Future health issues can also arise from eutrophication with land-borne nutrients. Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) events have increased over the past decades along the European coasts, leading to an increase of related illnesses and economic losses in the fisheries and aquaculture sector with a total estimated cost to the EU of more than 627 million EUR/year. True interdisciplinary approaches will be required to address further economic and environmental degradation.

Maritime transport

The same conflict between growth and increasing demand and sustainability holds for the maritime transport sector. Today, almost 90% of external freight trade in the EU is carried by the seas, and around 3,500 million metric tonnes of cargo and 350 million passengers pass through Europe’s ports each year. However, this growing sector produces large amounts of carbon dioxide, nitrogen and sulphur oxides, representing 4.5% of global emissions. Here too, research and technology could be a significant drivers towards the development of safe, sustainable and efficient waterborne transport operations, of crashworthy vessels, with low emissions and enhanced maritime security.

Energy & marine spatial planning

By 2050, 15% of European electricity could be provided by wave, tidal, thermal and osmotic resources. On top of that, offshore wind power will avoid the emission of 100 Mt of CO2 by 2020. The installation of these new devices requires, among other things, careful marine spatial planning (MSP). However, “While the advantages of MSP become rapidly acknowledged, few recognize the shortcomings of current MSP initiatives. Research will need to focus on the fact that the latter are not set up to allow and adequately measure the performance of management actions, and that little research is already available on how to apply MSP in areas beyond national jurisdiction, an area that covers 45% of the globe”, says Dr. Fanny Douvere (Coordinator of the World Heritage Marine Programme, UNESCO, Paris).

Experts call upon Europe to urgently build a marine observation network that “with a free access to real-time data will generate revenue for business and government, new products, and a leading role for European research and development” (Prof. Peter Haugan, Director Geophysical Institute, Bergen). They highlight the need for more research and knowledge on the deep-sea and its sub-seafloor. “Europe should play a leading role in addressing issues of sustainable ocean management and explore some of the deep-seated geological processes that drive seafloor ecosystems and resources” (Prof. Achim Kopf, MARUM Research Centre, Bremen). “The backside of the moon is still better known than the 70% of our planet which is covered by oceans. In order to meet the challenges of the next decade, major investments in marine science and technology are necessary. The future of the oceans is the future of mankind” (Prof. Peter Herzig, director Leibniz Institute of Marine Sciences IFM-Geomar).

The top priorities for marine and maritime research will be summarised in ’Navigating the Future IV’, a position paper that will be published by the Marine Board of the European Science Foundation (ESF) in Autumn of 2011. The content of this visionary position paper will be discussed by Europe’s leading experts at the occasion of the EurOCEAN 2010 Conference in Ostend (12-13 October 2010). Top-speakers will present a state-of-the-art overview of the major topics and will shed light on what Europe needs for its “blue future”. The EurOCEAN 2010 Conference will build upon the tradition of earlier EurOCEAN conferences in Galway (2004) and Aberdeen (2007), and will bring together leading European scientists, European, national and regional policy makers, marine science programmes and representatives of a wide spectrum of marine and maritime stakeholders.

The Conference will be attended by two EU Commissioners: Máire Geoghegan-Quinn, EU-Commissioner for Research & Innovation, and Maria Damanaki, EU-Commissioner for Maritime Affairs & Fisheries.

Máire Geoghegan-Quinn (EU-Commissioner for Research & Innovation), who will present a closing keynote speech summarises the importance of marine science and technology: “Overfishing, pollution and the effects of climate change have dramatically affected the marine environment, putting fragile ecosystems at great risk. Sea level rise, coastal erosion and extreme events threaten our coasts. However, with focused research and innovation, we can address these challenges and maximise the potential of our natural resources”.

EurOCEAN 2010 (www.eurocean2010.eu) is a Belgian EU Presidency event, organised in close cooperation with the European Commission and the Marine Board-ESF.

Flanders Marine Institute
EurOCEAN 2010
VLIZ – InnovOcean site
Wandelaarkaai 7
8400 Oostende, Belgium
Tel. +32-(0)59-34 21 30 – Fax +32-(0)59-34 21 31
eurocean2010@vliz.be
www.eurocean2010.eu

Related posts:

1. Establishment of Advanced Research Park to bring industrial innovation to central Taiwan To assist industrial innovation in counties and municipalities of central...
2. PhoCusWright’s European Consumer Travel Report Explores Key Trends and Indicators Impacting Consumer Travel in Europe Sherman, Conn. USA — As European travel companies advance...
3. 5th Exceltur tourism leadership forum presented as prime opportunity to debate new keys for tourism’s future Ministers from 9 major tourism generating and receiving countries,...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

23 September > 16 December 2010, every Thursday from 5pm to 10pm

If you’re a fan of culture and seeing Brussels by night, then there’s a special treat in store for you this autumn courtesy of Brussels’ Museums.

Every Thursday evening during the season you can explore some of the gems among the city’s museums and enjoy a visit with a twist! There’s always a great atmosphere and you can join guided tours and workshops and much more
besides – all of which lend these Late-Evening Openings (“Nocturnes”) a charm of their own.

To mark the 10th anniversary of the Late-Evening Openings, Brussels’ museums are pulling out all the stops and putting together a packed anniversary programme full of festive fun and activities!

To find out more, visit www.brusselsmuseums.be.

An initiative of the Brussels Museums Council.

Related posts:

1. Late-Evening Openings at the Brussels’ Museums – 10th season! 23 September – 16 December 2010, every Thursday from...
2. Overseas visitors impressed with Singapore’s museums. Total overseas visitors to national museums nears one million mark In an inaugural survey conducted by the National Heritage...
3. Air Arabia flies from Brussels Airport as from winter season Brussels Airport – August 10, 2010. The Moroccan low...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Sherman, Conn. USA — As European travel companies advance from recession into recovery, it is critical for them to stay attuned to the trends shaping consumer sentiment and decision-making. How confident are consumers about the upcoming year? What trends are common across European markets, and where do travelers differ? In a comprehensive research study, travel industry research authority PhoCusWright reveals and explores the state of European consumer travel.

PhoCusWright’s European Consumer Travel Report presents an overview of the status of consumer travel in three individual markets—the U.K., France and Germany—and examines trends and indicators shaping each market’s outlook for the coming year. The report unveils the major forces influencing European consumer travel, exploring both behavioral and attitudinal trends. “Our research uncovers some surprises and important differences between these three markets. The European travel markets are anything but one-size-fits-all, and any travel company hoping to effectively target these markets must address these differences and develop their strategies accordingly,” states Carroll Rheem, PhoCusWright’s director, research and report author. Report highlights include the following trends:

Relief on the way.
French travelers show a strong ratio of consumers who plan to travel more versus travel less. The German outlook is also positive, though more moderate. U.K. travelers, in contrast, show a very slight growth trajectory for the upcoming year.

Who does not plan travel online these days?
Among those with Internet access, just 6% of French travelers, 9% of German travelers and 5% of U.K. travelers plan and book their trips completely offline.

Search is how travel companies get found.
When shopping for leisure travel, the majority of French, German and U.K. travelers typically use general search engines, which rank first among website categories.

Think price is the biggest motivator? Think again.
Even in today’s price sensitive environment, travelers most commonly cited prior positive experience as a reason to visit a website—38% in France, 50% in Germany and 51% in the U.K.

Hotels are not everyone’s favorite part of the holiday.
Only 38% of French travelers enjoy staying in hotels, compared to 72% of German travelers and 82% of U.K. travelers.

Smartphone adoption reaches critical mass.
Over a third of travelers now carry mobile phones with web browsing capabilities—38% in France, 37% in Germany and 47% in the U.K.

Mobile travel is small, but growing fast.
Fewer than 10% of travelers have performed travel-related activities on their mobile phone in the past year. Yet intentions show that the mobile travel audience will likely double in the next 12 months.

While certain trends are consistent among travelers across European markets, many are not. Understanding the similarities and differences is critical for building brands in these distinct markets. PhoCusWright’s European Consumer Travel Report provides travel companies with a robust picture of European travelers’ behavior, attitudes and expectations, so they can best position themselves in Europe’s fiercely competitive travel marketplaces.

About PhoCusWright Inc.
PhoCusWright, the travel industry research authority, fosters smart strategic planning and tactical decision-making by delivering primary research on the evolving dynamics that influence travel, tourism and hospitality distribution. To complement its research in North America, Europe and Asia, PhoCusWright partners with and produces several high-profile conferences around the world.

Related posts:

1. PhoCusWright@ITB gathers travel leaders from around the globe to discuss economy, trends and technology “E-Travel Success Across Europe” —Headline theme of PhoCusWright@ITB, 10 March 2010...
2. ITB World Travel Trends Report 2010 Luxury travellers: The shining hope of the international travel industry ITB Berlin Convention 2011 9 to 13 March 2011 Luxury...
3. European Tourism in 2010 – Trends & Prospects (Q1/2010) Brussels, 15 April 2010. The European Travel Commission (ETC)...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

From left to right at the front is Zelna Adams, Feroza Malgas, Eddie Makuwaza, Theresa Groenewald and Anthea Leonard. Back left to right is Heineke Brand and Eben Nel.

Arabella Starwood South Africa’s annual Shining Stars Programme up-skills employees with Swiss Hospitality Course

As part of Arabella Starwood’s skills development plan, eight service staff from around the country have been selected to travel to Switzerland this month to attend an intensive three week hospitality course at the Swiss School of Tourism and Hospitality in Passugg – Chur.

The 2010 winners of Arabella Starwood’s annual Shining Star Programme include two staff members from The Westin Grand Cape Town, two staff members from the Arabella Western Cape Hotel & Spa, three staff members from the
Sheraton Pretoria and one from Blaauwklippen Wine Estate.

The Shining Star Programme is organised through the Arabella Centre of Excellence, which as part of the Group’s skills development plan, provides educational and training initiatives in the hospitality industry for employees, youth and the previously disadvantaged. All candidates going on the trip have been selected by their peers for their hard work, team spirit and commitment to excellence.

Says Arabella Starwood Chief Operating Officer, Friedrich Schaefer, “It is wonderful to see staff participants increased levels of motivation and commitment as a result of the Shining Star Programme. The trip recognises the outstanding achievement by members of our service staff and supports our ongoing plan to develop future leaders for our business. It is even more gratifying that they have been recognised and chosen by their fellow employees.”

Says Arabella Starwood Human Resource Director, Heineke Brand, “We have many staff whom we train and whose skills we develop in order to advance their careers. What is exciting about this programme and the trip is that it allows the winners an opportunity to learn at a top international hospitality school, an opportunity that they may otherwise not have had.
Many have never travelled abroad before this. Hopefully, they will broaden their horizons, learn and share it with others.”

The Shining Star Programme was established five years ago and is run on the basis of a finalist being selected each month by management and co-workers across the Group’s hospitality units, culminating in a final announcement every year of the winners for the 12 months, from April to March. Winners enjoy three weeks of intensive training in Switzerland at the Swiss School of Tourism and Hospitality which allows each student to gain guided experiential hotel training as well as theoretical studies in Beverages, Microbiology, Food & Beverage Service, Cuisine, and Swiss Hotel & Tourism.

The five Western Cape winners for the 2010 Shining Star Programme include Night Receptionist, Feroza Malgas and Food & Beverage Operations Manager, Theresa Groenewald from The Westin Grand Cape Town; Waiter, Zelna Adams and
Sous Chef, Edmore Makuwaza from the Arabella Western Cape Hotel & Spa; and Kitchen Hand, Anthea Leonard from Blaauwklippen Wine Estate. The three Pretoria Sheraton winners are E-Commerce/Sales & Marketing Administrator,
Andria Chetty, Guest Service Agent, Farai Mudzengerere and Chief Steward, Thabiso Lukhele. None of the participants have travelled overseas before.

The group departed for Switzerland on Saturday 14th of August 2010.

Related posts:

1. Norfolkline Wins Top Trainer Award Norfolkline are very pleased with the success of their...
2. ITB World Travel Trends Report 2010 Luxury travellers: The shining hope of the international travel industry ITB Berlin Convention 2011 9 to 13 March 2011 Luxury...
3. Tomorrow’s Stars Shine Today on Crystal Serenity Mediterranean Voyage Through its distinguished alliance with the Music Center –...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

23 September – 16 December 2010, every Thursday from 5pm to 10pm with around fifty museums in Brussels taking part

If you’re a fan of culture and seeing Brussels by night, then there’s a special treat in store for you this autumn courtesy of Brussels’ Museums. Every Thursday evening during the season you can explore some of the gems among the city’s museums and enjoy a visit with a twist! There’s always a great atmosphere and you can join guided tours and workshops and much more besides – all of which lend these Late-Evening Openings (“Nocturnes”) a charm of their own.

To mark the 10th anniversary of the Late-Evening Openings, Brussels’ museums are pulling out all the stops and putting together a packed anniversary programme full of festive fun and activities!

To find out more, visit www.brusselsmuseums.be

An initiative of the Brussels Museums Council.

Related posts:

1. Overseas visitors impressed with Singapore’s museums. Total overseas visitors to national museums nears one million mark In an inaugural survey conducted by the National Heritage...
2. Brussels Airlines expands its partnership with bmi on the Brussels – London route Ideal schedules for business travel, city trips and connections...
3. bmi suspends Brussels – London Heathrow service and closes its Brussels office Brussels, 8 January 2010 – bmi, the second largest airline...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Dr. Prem Jagyasi, Chartered Marketing & Management Consultant, MD & CEO – ExHealth, Dubai HealthCare City, Chief Strategy Officer – Medical Tourism Association, USA, Chief Editor – HealthFirst Magazine, UAE, Founder – UAE Health Network

Dubai, UAE 28th July – A survey published today by a prominent Medical Tourism consultant has revealed that 94% of medical tourism industry insiders believe their sector of the industry has yet to reach its full potential. The report, which can be viewed on-line at www.DrPrem.com, shows that confusion, a lack of information and fear about complications following surgery are the main reasons for patient reluctance to cross international borders for health services.

“The medical tourism industry is going through an exciting phase where international and intra-regional activities are taking places within this sector of the health market,” said Dr. Prem Jagyasi, architect of the survey and an experienced consultant in the healthcare travel sector. “The responses received clearly revealed that there is an overwhelming perception among industry leaders that there is so much more that can be achieved,” he added.

The findings are particularly interesting as more than 35 countries were identified as important medical tourism destinations. Of the 35 countries, India was ranked as the number one popular destination, with Thailand and Singapore positioned at second and third places respectively. The United States had a surprise ranking at number four.

“The Asian and Far Eastern countries are well-established medical tourism destinations, so the top three placing were expected,” said Dr. Jagyasi. “The United States came in at number four, which clearly indicate Medical Tourism is not all about low price affairs. The quality of healthcare services at a destination is deemed to be of utmost importance. Latin American and European countries were in the top ten, indicating that medical tourism is not dominated by one continent or geography – it’s a truly global industry” added Dr Prem Jagyasi who is also Honorary Chief Strategy Officer of Medical Tourism Association, world’s biggest non-profit organization of this particular industry, based in Florida US with representative office across the world.

The purpose of the health tourism survey, according to Dr. Jagyasi, was to gain valuable insights into aspects of medical tourism from professionals who are closely involved with the industry. Ninety-five per cent of the survey’s participants identified themselves as being either directly or indirectly involved with healthcare travel in the scope of their work and the resulting information supplied by these insiders revealed many important facts concerning this specialised sector; including its terms, trends, status, opportunities and challenges. The knowledge gleaned from the survey will be used to promote this sector of the healthcare industry and will provide important content for a soon-to-be published guidebook for consumers who are considering undertaking treatment abroad.

“One of the survey questions enquired why the respondents thought that there may be a reluctance in some consumers to participate in healthcare tourism and the main responses we received were that they may have concerns about complications, experience confusion over aspects of available services, be uninformed and find the option complicated,” said Dr. Jagyasi. “This is important information, as it clearly shows that education is a vital component in allowing us to facilitate medical tourism to reach its greatest potential. If we can allay people’s fears about foreign treatments and guide potential health tourists with information on what to expect and important advice on visa and travel issues, then we will be providing a vital service and as well as giving a welcome boost to the region’s health sector,” he added.

Hence, Dr Prem Jagyasi has taken initiative to publish a guidebook. He has high hopes that it will become a handy reference tool for those wanting to know more about the intricacies of travelling across borders for healthcare services. The book is the latest achievement in his specialist interest in medical tourism and he has visited more than 20 countries and spoken at 30 international congresses relating to this sector of the healthcare industry. “Medical tourism can offer huge benefits in terms of quality of service and its affordability, in fact, the survey revealed that industry leaders view these as being its key drivers,” he said. “The industry is set to grow enormously over the next two decades as more and more destinations open up to patients from overseas,” he added.

The medical tourism survey was conducted on-line and contained questions that had been developed over a six month period and based on intensive research. The qualitative assessment was sent to medical tourism professionals in North America, South America, Africa, Europe, the Middle East and Gulf regions, Asia and the Far East. It found that medical tourism facilitators are in a prime position to capitalise on the promising opportunities offered by this sector of the health market; with 88% of respondents agreeing that role of facilitator – those agencies providing health-related travel services – are either important or very important in this segment.

Selected Observations from Survey Results (Download complete report from www.DrPrem.com )

The preferred term from respondents for this particular sector of the healthcare industry is ‘Medical Tourism’, with 35% selecting this option. ‘Global Healthcare’ was the next most popular term at 22%, with ‘Health Tourism’ running a close third at 21%. “Medical Travel’ was identified by 10% of respondents as their preferred description, with ‘Healthcare Travel’ and ‘Value Medical Travel’ both at 6%.

35 countries in total were identified as being medical tourism destinations; which were (in alphabetical order: Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Caribbean, China, Costa Rica, Cuba, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Malaysia, Mexico, Morocco, New Zealand, Panama, Philippines, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, UAE, UK and USA.

India, Thailand and Singapore were ranked first, second and third as the most popular medical tourism destinations respectively. The United States was placed at number four.

94% of respondents agreed with a statement that medical tourism was yet to reach its full potential.

The four most popular reasons given for why patients travel abroad to receive medical treatment were ‘Affordability (costly in home country)’ at 88%, ‘Accessibility (waiting period is high)’ at 66% ‘Better quality (care and support services are better quality than the home country) at 38% and ‘Availability (not available in home country) at 46%.

The four most popular reasons given for patients being unwilling to avail themselves of treatment abroad were ‘Concern about complications’ at 50%, ‘Confusion’ at 46%, patients being ‘Uninformed’ at 44% and finding the option ‘Complicated’ at 39%

The top four challenges to the medical tourism industry were identified as being ‘Accessing reliable information’ at 59%, ‘Too many newcomers jumping on the medical tourism bandwagon, not experienced or understanding of the industry’ at 54%, ‘Lack of pre and post operative care arrangements at 52% and ‘Complicated intra-country laws and legal procedures’ at 49%.

The top three reasons identified that are essential components of a good medical tourism destination were ‘Quality standards of healthcare and wellness services’ which was marked by 51% of respondents, followed by ‘Accessibility of the destination’ at 30% and ‘Technology, facilities & specialisations available’ at 27%.

The survey takers were asked why they thought Medical tourism was a new ‘buzzword’ (or more accurately a ‘buzz phrase’). Fifty-six per cent (56%) agreed that it was ‘Because increasing numbers are travelling for healthcare’, with almost the same percentage (55%) also agreeing that it was ‘Because medical tourism benefits a cross section, including governments insurance companies, travel/tourism, healthcare and facilitators’. Fifty-seven per cent (57%) agreed that it was ‘Because it offers value for money’ and 46% said that it was ‘Because big hospitals are promoting it’.

The role of facilitators in the industry was deemed by the respondents to be significant (an explanation of facilitators being that they arrange medical tourism either in part or in whole for health tourists). Sixty-one per cent (61%) said that facilitators were ‘Very important’, 27% said that they were ‘Important’, 10% regarded them as ‘Optional’ and 2% said that they were ‘Not important’.

About ExHealth:

Motivated by a creative vision and committed to an innovative mission, ExHealth offers a comprehensive array of tailor-made, media-related healthcare services, encompassing Marketing, Public Relations, Conference and Event Management, Design & Publication, Healthcare Tourism Consulting and Medical Management Consulting, all of which are located under one roof at Dubai HealthCare City. ExHealth’s key concern is to perform and execute incomparable solutions for healthcare organisations across all sectors of the industry. Aiming to achieve and surpass its customers’ stated goals, ExHealth is focused on ensuring that its clients’ business has the edge in today’s competitive market place.

About Dr Prem Jagyasi

Dr Prem Jagyasi is a successful entrepreneur and experienced strategic professional. He is a renowned chartered management, healthcare marketing and medical tourism consultant responsible for providing high-profile consultancy services to both government authorities and private healthcare organisations. Dr. Prem Jagyasi’s commitment to developing medical tourism has seen him become a leading figure in the international healthcare tourism world.

Currently, Dr Prem Jagyasi is MD & CEO of ExHealth; a Dubai Health Care City-based firm engaged in offering multi-dimensional healthcare solutions across the international domain. He also serves the Medical Tourism Association — a non-profit organization based in USA – as Honorary Chief Strategy Officer. He is also the Chief Editor of UAE’s leading health magazine, HealthFirst, which is published in association with one of the region’s leading English language daily newspapers.

Direct Download Link

http://www.drprem.com/Medical_Tourism_Research_and_Survey_Report_by_Dr_Prem_Jagyasi.pdf

Related posts:

1. Taiwan to promote internationalized medical care services Taiwan’s Economic Development Vision for 2015—First-stage Three-Year Sprint Program was...
2. Radisson Hotel Bangkok Sathorn Targets Medical Tourism Market With the Land of Smiles on the road to...
3. New UNWTO Roadmap for Recovery for Tourism and Travel – Call to World Leaders to include Sector in Economic, Stimulus Actions The 18th session of the UNWTO General Assembly concluded...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

De verfijnde proefsessies van soorten Schotse single malt whisky vormen opnieuw één van de extra’s waarmee P&O Ferries het najaar 2010 en het voorjaar 2011 kleurt. Deze whisky minicruises bestaan steevast uit een hoogst interessante en met veel ‘droge’ humor gekruide uiteenzetting, met de diverse “whiskytastings” als hoogtepunten. Dat gebeurt zowel tijdens de heen- als tijdens de terugreis.

Filip J. Verleye en zijn running mates Marc Vandenberghe en Jean Geebelen, nota bene houders van de prestigieuze titel “Whisky Ambassador for Belgium”, leiden de activiteiten.

De Whisky Minicruises vertrekken steeds op een vrijdag om 19 uur vanuit Zeebrugge, nl. op 9 september, 15 oktober, 19 november en 3 december 2010, alsook op 21 januari, 4 februari en 18 maart 2011. Terugkeer op zondagmorgen. Voor wie geen enkele van deze data zou passen: vanuit Rotterdam-Europoort worden eveneens Whisky Minicruises aangeboden op 10 december 2010 en 11 februari 2011.

P&O Ferries biedt deze Whisky Minicruise naar Hull aan voor een all-in prijs van € 179,- per persoon. Voor wie York wil bezoeken geldt een toeslag van 11 € per persoon.

De all-in omvat: de nachtelijke overtocht heen en terug in een 2-persoons inside cabin (met douche en toilet) een heerlijk 5-gangen buffetdiner, zowel op de heen- als de terugreis een verkwikkend Engels ontbijt, zowel op de heen- als de terugreis een whiskyproeverij op de heenreis én een whiskyproeverij op de terugreis de transfer heen en terug van de P&O-terminal in Hull naar het centrum van de stad gratis parkeerplaats in Zeebrugge of Rotterdam

Zijn niet inbegrepen: de dranken aan boord (in bars en restaurants), alsook de maaltijden en dranken overdag in Hull.

De whiskycruises vormen een toegevoegde waarde voor de op zich reeds zeer intense cruisebeleving aan boord. Alle infrastructuur staat in functie van twee fantastische avonden: restaurants, bars, lounges, disco, cinema, casino, shops, enz. Bij de aankomst ‘s morgens staat de bus klaar aan de terminal voor een volle vrije dag in Hull.

In Hull schitteren de winkelstraten door hun uitgebreide mogelijkheden en hun aparte ambiance. De shoppingcentra Princes Quay en St.Stephen’s zijn de exponenten van winkelplezier voor iedereen. De vele specifieke pubs bewijzen zich op hun beurt als welkome rustpunten. In het Museum Quarter zijn alle musea gratis toegankelijk. De enige uitzondering op de regel is The Deep, maar dat is dan ook een diepzee-aquarium van de allerhoogste uitzonderlijke kwaliteit.

Heden en verleden liggen op een hoogst aangename wijze verweven in het altijd even kwieke York. In het Jorvik Center, één van de ruim 30 verschillende musea in de stad, dalen de bezoekers af in de tijd van de Vikings: gega randeerd leerrijk plezier voor groot en klein! Ook bovengronds is de roemrijke historie nooit ver weg. De middeleeuwse wallen, The Minster als oudste kathedraal van Europa en The Shambles als authentieke winkelstraatjes zijn slechts enkele van de vele toeristische attractiepunten.

Attentie: het aantal plaatsen voor de ‘whiskytasting’ is beperkt.

Voor alle informatie kan u terecht op http://www.POferries.be . Voor reservaties op telefoonnummer 070/70 77 71 en uiteraard ook bij de reisbureaus.

Related posts:

1. In het najaar voor het volle pond genieten van een P&O Ferries minicruise naar Noord-Engeland Dit najaar vullen de Noord-Engelse steden Hull, York, Beverley...
2. Nieuwe Ryanair-basis vanaf september 2010 Barcelona El Prat krijgt 5 vliegtuigen …en 20 nieuwe verbindingen...
3. Qatar Airways opent Brussel op 31 januari 2011 Aankondiging van zes nieuwe bestemmingen Luchtvaartmaatschappij verstevigt aanwezigheid in Europa...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Du vendredi 29 octobre au lundi 1er novembre 2010, Tour & Taxis à Bruxelles va à nouveau accueillir les nombreux artisans des métiers d’Art et des produits du Terroir, les centres de formations et tous ceux qui participent à la revalorisation des ces métiers. Ces hommes et ces femmes travaillent les matières nobles et naturelles et prennent, encore, ce qui nous reste de plus précieux : le temps.

Nouveau à ArtisanArt Bruxelles : l’espace Be Well accueillera pour la première fois, dans un espace bien défini, des exposants dont les activités sont consacrées au bio et au bien-être : alimentation, beauté, habitat & jardinage écologiques, thérapies douces, séjours & spas.

Be Well, au sein d’ArtisanArt, le 1er espace bio & bien-être de la capitale !

Et, comme les quatre années précédentes, ArtisanArt Bruxelles 2010 accueillera les « Prix des Meilleurs Artisans Bruxellois », une initiative du Ministre Bruxellois de l’Economie, Benoît Cerexhe.

Des informations complètes seront communiquées dans les mois qui viennent et accessibles sur le site www.artisanart.be

Related posts:

1. Remise des Prix des Meilleurs Artisans Bruxellois 2009 à ArtisanArt Ce vendredi 6 novembre 2009, Les Prix des Meilleurs Artisans...
2. Coup double pour la brasserie Boon, de Lembeek, à la World Beer Cup 2010 Pas moins de 3.330 bières de 642 brasseries venues...
3. TTG Polish Travel Mart 2010 – 4th Edition TTG POLAND is organizing TTG Polish Travel Mart 2010,...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

As the days grow longer and romance blossoms in the summer air, what better way to experience the sights and sounds of Central Park than with Jumeirah Essex House’s “Picnic in the Park” Package? While away a lazy summer day with the one you love best. Components of the Picnic in the Park

Package include:

-      overnight accommodations at the iconic Jumeirah Essex House

-      two complimentary “Great Lawn” Cucumber Rhubarb Gimlet cocktails at South Gate, the award-winning on-site restaurant

-      picnic basket complete with plates, silverware and your choice of delectable sandwiches, salads, fruits and sweets from South Gate (Rainy day option: enjoy a lunch for two at South Gate)

-

Guests can join the quest for the perfect picnic spot through September 15th. The Picnic in the Park Package at Jumeirah Essex House, which starts at $339 per night, is subject to availability. For more information or to make a reservation, call 1-888-645-5697 or visit www.jumeirahessexhouse.com<http://www.jumeirahessexhouse.com/>.

For families, Jumeirah Essex House has created a wonderful feast and invited some very special friends to share a “Teddy Bear Picnic” in Central Park. The Teddy Bear Picnic Package includes:

-      overnight accommodations at the iconic Jumeirah Essex House

-      young guests will be able to choose a companion from a selection of FAO Schwarz teddy bears upon arrival

-      a perfect family picnic basket complete with plates, silverware and a delicious South Gate catered lunch, plus some surprise toys – everything you need to explore Central Park with Ted! (Rainy day option: enjoy a family lunch for four at South Gate)

Families can enjoy this summer adventure through September 15th. The Teddy Bear Picnic Package at Jumeirah Essex House, which starts at $445 per night, is subject to availability.  For more information or to make a reservation, call 1-888-645-5697 or visit www.jumeirahessexhouse.com<http://www.jumeirahessexhouse.com/>.

Related posts:

1. Jumeirah warns of wild excitement ahead as Wild Wadi turns ten Jumeirah’s Wild Wadi Waterpark, Dubai’s favourite family destination, has announced...
2. Establishment of Advanced Research Park to bring industrial innovation to central Taiwan To assist industrial innovation in counties and municipalities of central...
3. Dongsha National park is a favorite with migratory birds The northeasterly monsoon is gaining in strength as autumn...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Menen, België, 1 juli 2010 – Thule, wereldwijd marktleider in ‘Sports and Utility Transportation’ kondigt met trots de lancering van zijn nieuwe Thule Transportlijn aan: een gamma slimme opbergoplossingen voor in de auto. Deze producten zorgen ervoor dat u al uw spullen (van rondslingerend wisselgeld tot sportgerief) altijd binnen handbereik hebt!

Deze zomer helpt Thule u met de organisatie van uw zomervakantie

Van plan een road trip met de familie te maken? Maar u bent nog op zoek naar de beste manier om al die tennisrackets en sportschoenen op te bergen in de auto? Het Thule Transportgamma biedt dé oplossing en zorgt ervoor dat uw wagen in geen tijd is ingeladen! Deze producten voor in de auto zijn ideaal voor mensen met een actieve levensstijl die gemakkelijk en snel hun sportmateriaal willen kunnen uitladen en gebruiken.

Medium Trunk Organizer_LD.JPGTrunk organizer

Deze opvouwbare opbergoplossing is een ideale reisgezel voor de wekelijkse bezoeken aan de supermarkt, maar is ook handig voor het wegbergen van een paar sportschoenen. Deze tassen zijn beschikbaar in verschillende maten. De grote Horizontal Trunk organizer heeft een rits die de inhoud veilig op zijn plaats houdt. Bovendien zorgt de draadstructuur ervoor dat de zak openblijft tijdens het laden en lossen van alle spullen.

(Adviesverkoopprijs: vanaf € 15,24)

Litter bag

Litter Bag_LD.JPGWeet u ook nooit waar u lege drankkartons of blikjes kwijt kan terwijl u onderweg bent? Schaf dan een Thule Litter bag aan, de ideale manier om vuilnis op te bergen in de wagen! Dankzij de afstelbare band kunt u dit vuilnisbakje gemakkelijk over de rugleuning van een zetel hangen of op andere plekken in de auto plaatsen. Deze Litter bag heeft bovendien een zelfsluitende bovenzijde die afval verborgen houdt en een gemakkelijk reinigbare voering.

(Adviesverkoopprijs: € 14,23)

Seat wedge organizer

Bent u het beu om telkens naar kleingeld te zoeken aan de tolpoort? Dan is de Seat wedge organizer voor u weggelegd! Deze slimme oplossing past precies tussen de twee voorzetels en het dashboard van de auto. Dankzij de wigstructuur blijft dit zakje altijd perfect op zijn plaats. In de organizer kunnen telefoonladers, wisselgeld en allerlei andere kleine spulletjes opgeborgen worden. (Adviesverkoopprijs: € 13,99)

Electronics Organizer_LD.JPGElectronics organizer en Catch-all

Zowel de Electronics organizer als de Catch-all zijn ontworpen om belangrijke items bij de hand te hebben tijdens het rijden. De Electronics organizer biedt plaats aan gsm’s of gps-toestellen en heeft een verzwaarde basis waardoor hij nooit verschuift op het dashboard van de auto! In de Catch-all kunt u verschillende voorwerpen zoals zonnebrillen en schrijfgerief kwijt. Dankzij het innovatieve bevestigingsmechanisme voor het ventilatiesysteem kan het tasje vlak naast de

chauffeur of voorste passagiersstoel worden geplaatst.

(Adviesverkoopprijs Electronics organizer: € 8,12, Adviesverkoopprijs Catch-all: € 6,09)

Thule’s Transport line – Ideaal voor de zakenman die vaak onderweg is

Naast vakantiegangers en mensen met een actieve levensstijl, is dit gamma opbergoplossingen ook heel handig voor zakenmannen die vaak onderweg of op verplaatsing zijn. De Thule Transportlijn heeft verschillende oplossingen om waardevolle voorwerpen, zoals papieren, schrijfgerief en notebooks gemakkelijk op te bergen en terug te vinden.

Visor Organizer_LD.JPG

Organizer voor zonneklep

Dankzij Thule’s organizer voor de zonneklep hebt u uw belangrijke documenten altijd bij de hand. Dit opbergsysteem wordt met haak- en lusriemen aan de zonneklep bevestigd. In het neerklappende vak kunnen gsm’s of een afstandsbediening voor de garage worden opgeruimd en in de opbergvakken kunt u schrijfgerief of registratiedocumenten steken.

(Adviesverkoopprijs: € 10,16)

Front Seat organizer en Organizer voor over de rugleuning

Front Seat Organizer_LD.JPGDeze opbergoplossing is ideaal voor zakenlui die vaak heel wat papierwerk en belangrijke documenten meesleuren. De Front Seat Organizer heeft een tasontwerp zodat je hem gemakkelijk kunt dragen en kan aan een zetel worden bevestigd door middel van de veiligheidsgordel. In een speciaal kantelbaar voorvak, dat gemakkelijk toegankelijk is tijdens het rijden, kan een laptop van 16” worden opgeborgen. De Thule Organizer voor over de rugleuning heeft hetzelfde ontwerp als de Front Seat Organizer en is bedoeld om papieren, notebooks en andere belangrijke documenten in weg te bergen.

(Adviesverkoopprijs Front Seat Organizer: € 36,59, Adviesverkoopprijs Back Seat Sling Organizer: € 25,41)

Document Wedge_LD.JPGAutomotive document wedge

Wilt u er zeker van zijn dat belangrijke documenten niet kwijtraken of beschadigd raken in de auto? Dan is de Automotive document wedge de oplossing! Dit opbergtasje is ontworpen om gemakkelijk tussen een autozetel en het midden van het dashboard te worden geplaatst. In het grote vak kunnen papieren met een grootte van 27 x 35 cm worden opgeborgen en in de verschillende bijvakken kleinere documenten en voorwerpen zoals schrijfgerief.

thule1(Adviesverkoopprijs: € 13,21)

Related posts:

1. Brussels Airlines lanceert grootse promotiecampagne 300.000 tickets naar Europese bestemmingen vanaf 99 euro all in...
2. Nieuw! Automatische validating carrier in Amadeus pricing & ticketing Amadeus, een toonaangevende leverancier van technologie- en distributie oplossingen voor...
3. Malaysia Airlines wereldwijd over op nieuw reserveringssysteem Luchtvaartmaatschappij Malaysia Airlines gaat wereldwijd over op een nieuw...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.