Category: European Tourism Academy

ANTON CARAGEA-EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM and trade president receives european academy report on world best tourist destination candidates appraisal

6/1/2016

The call for applications for the European Council on Tourism and Trade- Awards for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 and FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION is now closed, announced Academician Mircea Constantinescu head of European Tourism Academy.

The ECTT Award for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2016 is celebrating, this year, the round number of 20 million tourists, that visited countries placed on the list of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION in the last five years.

The Awards for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM, established in 2000, are the flagship recognitions for national and the global tourism.

They recognize cultural achievements, tourism potential, social role of tourism, knowledge incorporated in tourism development, in accordance with European Council on Tourism and Trade committment for the advancement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agenda.

The name of winner nation of the European Council on Tourism and Trade – Awards for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 and FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION will be unveiled on Friday, 10 June 2016, in a gala dinner in Bucharest, Romania.

Last year, the ceremony hosted 220 high-level participants from more than 27 european countries, including ministers, ambassadors and tourism industry CEOs.

The European Council on Tourism and Trade – Awards for FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION, to be held on 10th June 2016, will highlight the importance of culture, historical patrimony and artistic creation in tourism and showcase the knowledge and achievements of all ECTT Awards finalists.

European Tourism Academy leader hand it to European Council on Tourism and Trade President his office recommendation regarding the name of the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 contest.

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE PRESIDENT OUTLINES THE IMPORTANCE OF TOURISM FOR WORLD DEVELOPMENT

12/19/2015

World Capital of Culture and Tourism and World Best Tourist Destination prizes continues to bring international awareness, national branding and country branding opportunities say`s an European Market and Research study.

IRS Market and Research Company outlined the impressive results of the countries that marketed themselfs or their main tourist cities as capitals of culture and tourism or as world best tourism destinations.

Receiving the report, European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea remarked that: I am so happy to see how previously unknown and un-marketed destinations receive mass media limelight and are pro-pulsed as emerging tourist destination.Diplomats from this nation`s are having their tasks made easier, as their countries are propelled on the top nations stage and economic growth and investment.

Development and country branding are coming as the result of a long-term program based on World Best Tourist Destination or World Capital of Culture and Tourism prizes and designation.

I receive countless expression of gratitude for our support from leaders, politicians and ambassadors, who are finding their exertions much facilitated by tourism seal of approval of ECTT, but the most moving are the stories of the people`s who find jobs and opportunities, that other ways would have not existed.But now their life are richer and more dignified, this is the transforming power of country branding via culture, history and tourism.

This is internationalization and nation branding achieving their best results!

Ashgabat-World Capital of Culture and Tourism and Turkmenistan capital received an impressive mass media coverage in television spots and printed press and radio shows in value of more than 16 million euros and Dushanbe, Tajikistan capital, obtained a media coverage of more than 21 million euros, reflecting their cultural achievements and world capital of culture and tourism status.

World Best Tourist Destination status brings also free publicity in articles, television of more than 50 million for Laos People`s Democratic Republic, around 30 million for Zimbabwe and the top is lead by Ethiopia who benefited of a publicity coverage of more than 60 million euros.

What is more important than just the figures, mentioned in the marketing report, is the fact that: these countries will benefit for years and years to come by their achievements as world best tourist destination or world capital of culture stated Mr. Radu Alexandru, communication unit chief of European Council on Tourism and Trade.

The reports finding are limited to october 2015, while tourism promotion and branding is an ongoing process that can never be fully accounted for declared the european official.

Laos-World Best Tourist Destination for 2013. Glamorous ceremony in Vientiane!

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE CHAIRMAN AND EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY DIRECTOR PRESENT THE OFFICIAL MESSAGE FOR 2015 WORLD TOURISM DAY

9/28/2015

This year’s European Council on Tourism and Trade Academy celebrates World Tourism Day 2015 by highlighting the powerful role of tourism in creating causeways of international understanding and mutual respect.

European Tourism Academy considers that there is no better way to learn about a new culture than to experience the magic of tourism.

Traveling outside your comfort areas offers wonderful occasions to discover new cultures and communities.

This interaction is destined to promote dialogue and interaction.

This personal meetings mediated by traveling experiences between people of different backgrounds is the very foundation for tolerance and dialogue.

In a world building yet a peaceful coexistence, tourism can build bridges and contribute decisively to peace.

Tourism’s contributions to economic development are a part of building a new common market and a new global solidarity.

Today in the times of economic crisis, tourism is proving his steadfast ability to generate socio-economic occasions and help reduce the gap between rich and poor nations, and this result is becoming more significant than ever.

European Tourism Academy is tacking this global opportunity to encourage all the stakeholders involved in tourism to embrace the key principles of the European Council on Tourism and Trade.

These guidelines for sustainable, ethic and global tourism development, approved by the European Council on Tourism and Trade President, are based on the scientific and cultural analyses made in our academy and are based on the connections between tourism and peace, human rights and inter-cultural/ inter-religious dialogue.

World Tourism Day 2015 is an opportunity for tourism community under the leadership of European Council on Tourism and Trade to reflect on the importance of tourism to global development and environment protection.

We encourage you to travel, to discover the charm of engagement with other cultures, religions and civilization and celebrate human accomplishment`s during history.

President of European Council on Tourism and Trade-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, MA, FINS, EDA

European Tourism Academy Director-Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TOURISM AND TRADE IS PRESENTING TO THE WORLD ETHIOPIA-THE PERFECT TOURISM DESTINATION OF 2015

9/20/2015

The city of Madrid was on 21 October 2015 the platform for launching the 13 issue of European Journal of Tourism and Trade.

The special publication of European Council on Tourism and Trade was put to the fore of world tourism with a presentation of ETHIOPIA-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015.

The issue highlighted to the world tourism readership the main features of tourism in Ethiopia, the landmarks of Ethiopian tourism visited by European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation, the reasons for electing Ethiopia as the perfect cultural destination and a touristic guide to Ethiopia.

Ethiopia was unanimously elected as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION in 2015 for here fabulous historic and civilization legacy mirrored in more than 20 UNESCO heritage sites and for his outstanding track record for safety of tourism and for ethical and green tourism.

Benefiting the legacy of Empire of Ethiopia, today`s Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia is abundant in places of religious significance from the world second Jerusalem-Lalibela to holy Islamic city of Harar and incredible medieval constructions of Gondar encompassing churches, mosques, palaces and historical places that are unique in the world.

The latest issue of European Journal of Tourism and Trade is presenting in extenso the debates hold on the award, the list of competing countries and the long list of reasons for awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD to ETHIOPIA.

Other high-profile articles are dedicated to: the ceremonies held in Addis Ababa for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD and to the election as member of European Tourism Academy of Prime Minister of Ethiopia- Hailemariam Desalegn .

Special highlights of the 13 edition for 2015 of European Journal of Tourism and Trade are also the visit of the European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation in Ethiopia and the agreements reached on fostering touristic and diplomatic relations between Europe and Ethiopia F.D.R.

Special pages are dedicated also to the European Council on Tourism and Trade visits to Kazakhstan-the heart of Silk Road and Turkmenistan- the center of Caspian Sea tourism.

Kazakhstan had offered to European Council on Tourism and Trade a fountain of historical and cultural wealth from Turkistan-Islamic holy city of Silk Road to Almaty-Central Asia capital of winter sports and Taraz-capital of culture and poetry in the region.

European Journal of Tourism and Trade is a regular publication of European Council on Tourism and Trade destined to disseminate information`s about World Best Tourist destinations, European tourism statistic, evolution`s, laws, regulations and main event`s.

European Journal of Tourism and Trade has an average readership for issue of more than 120.000 professional’s that includes the 180 embassies in Europe as well as all major European government institutions, private corporations and the international community at large. As the flagship newspaper of the European tourism community, we are the only publication in the Europe able to reach the tourism highly targeted and lucrative market.

Read on-line the ETHIOPIA: WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015 special issue of EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TOURISM AND TRADE

LAOS PLANS TO SCORE ANOTHER VICTORY IN WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION COMPETITION

8/26/2015

After being elected WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 and Favorite Cultural Destination in 2013 Laos has become a beacon of tourism in the Indochina region.

Already 40 hotels, including five international chains, are scheduled to open in Laos over the next five years as the country becomes a more popular tourist destination.

Yang Fu Ning, general manager of Don Chan Palace, a luxury hotel in Vientiane, said international brands Ramada, InterContinental, Crown Plaza, Sofitel and Marriott were set to open hotels in the capital by 2019.

Three global brands - Mercure, Ibis and Best Western - have already opened their doors in Vientiane, and one regional brand has entered the World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang to cash in the World Best Tourist Destination status of the country.

Furthermore, 25-30 three- and four-star hotels are set to open in the capital, with some in other tourist cities.

In the first year after receiving World`s Favorite Cultural Destination " we registered 3.7 million arrivals last year, generating income of US$600 million.

The government aims for 3.9 million tourists this year.

The number of arrivals should reach 10 million within five years but we need another success in WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION to consolidate our status.

The number of American and European tourists has significantly increased in recent years.

Currently, seven foreign airlines, including Thai Airways International, AirAsia and Bangkok Airways, and two local carriers are operating in and out Laos. Some of these airlines run charter flights during high season.

Two years ago, the European Council on Tourism and Trade named Laos the "World's Best Tourist Destination for 2013", which put the country on the global tourism map especially for its rich history, culture, traditions and natural beauty.

DOCUMENTARY ABOUT LAOS-WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION FOR 2013-Documentary that received European Academy Award

PRIME MINISTER HAILEMARIAM DESALEGN EXPRESS OPTIMISM IN HIS DECLARATION FOR ETHIOPIA-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015

8/17/2015

On the rostrum of World Best Tourist Destination for 2015 Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn has held a powerful speech expressing his confidence in Ethiopia`s tourism sector development.

On this important world tourism ceremony H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn was recognized by European Tourism Academy as a World Leader of Tourism and a member of honor of European Tourism Academy by Academician Mircea Constantinescu and in the presence of European Council on Tourism and Trade President.

The Premier received the insignia`s of European Council on Tourism and Trade from European President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea at a public function held at the National Palace yesterday.

ECTT declared Ethiopia as the perfect winner of World Best Tourist Destination and Favorite Cultural Destination Distinction for 2015.

“This grant further motivates Ethiopia to offer more noteworthy social and vacation destinations and administrations to sightseers over the world,” PM Hailemariam said subsequent to accepting the grant.

The legislature of Ethiopia is resolved to ensure and safeguard authentic and social legacies and “we trust it is in this acknowledgment of this one of a kind game plan in addition to other things that ECTT chose to stretch out to Ethiopia the world best traveler destination recompense.”

The stream of vacationers to Ethiopia has developed altogether amid the most recent decade as the nation had the capacity give better administrations that urged travelers to invest longer energy and investigate Ethiopia’s surprising and wonderful attractions, he said.

Ethiopia will keep on developing the tourism area and utilization it as a methods for political participation with different nations, he said.

Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn accepted for him the honorary membership of European Tourism Academy insignia and on behalf of people of Ethiopia accepted the diploma and the globe as official signs of World Best Tourist Destination and Favorite Cultural Destination designation.

The world tourism ceremony for 2015 was organized by Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ethiopia and by European Council on Tourism and Trade.

Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ethiopia-Amin Abdulkadir presents to the press the main features of World Best Tourist Destination ceremony for 2015.

KAZAKHSTAN PRESIDENT PREPARES A REVOLUTION IN CENTRAL ASIAN TOURISM WITH EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE SUPPORT

8/4/2015

Kazakhstan Ambassador Daulet Batrashev and ECTT President- Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

European Council on Tourism and Trade work will be connected with the implementation of the concept of development of the tourist industry by 2020 and establishment of regional tourist clusters: “Astana – the Heart of Eurasia”, “Almaty – Kazakhstan’s Free Cultural Zone”, “Unity of Nature and Nomadic Culture”, “The Pearl of Altai”, “Restoration of the Great Silk Road”, “the Caspian Gates”.

Kazakhstan Ambassador meet with European Council on Tourism and Trade President(ECTT), Professor Dr. Anton Caragea for an official presentation of the 100 steps reform plan of Kazakhstan President.

The Ambassador outlined the significance and the importance of the message in a dialogue with ECTT President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and requested the academic analyses and an official point of view on the content of the document, that will be submitted for Kazakhstan people appreciation.

The document titled: 100 concrete steps set out by President Nursultan Nazarbayev to implement five institutional reforms is a concrete plan, proving the Kazakhstan President determination to carve out the creation of a developed state, for all people of Kazakhstan.

This will be achieved by developing a professional civil service, ensuring rule of law, offering bases for industrialisation and economic growth and fostering national unity and identity by developing a patriotic act named Mangilik El (Eternal Nation).After perusing the document,ECTT President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea express his complete acquiescence,to the program enunciated by H.E. Kazakhstan President-Nursultan Nazarbayev and highlighted the main features of what he called „a perfect program for a modern nation, a state belonging to XXI century”.The academic staff of European Tourism Academy and European Council on Tourism and Trade, in agreement with other institutions and European academies, will start a process of complete and thoroughly examination and recommendations, so that the Five Institutional Reforms Program outlined by President Nursultan Nazarbayev to be recognized as a document of universal value and significance and to be offered as a template for development and national building across the world.

The program and documents, submitted by H.E. Kazakhstan Ambassador-Daulet Batrashev for Europe and world analysis, are reflecting the peerless manner in which President Nazarbayev is conducting the construction of an enlighten and modern state in Kazakhstan of today and his proposals can be considered as a document of world significance and authoritative development plan, concluded Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

European Council on Tourism and Trade work will be connected with the implementation of the concept of development of the tourist industry by 2020 and establishment of regional tourist clusters: “Astana – the Heart of Eurasia”, “Almaty – Kazakhstan’s Free Cultural Zone”, “Unity of Nature and Nomadic Culture”, “The Pearl of Altai”, “Restoration of the Great Silk Road”, “the Caspian Gates”.

The meeting held between HE. Kazakhstan Ambassador-Daulet Batrashev and President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was the first official presentation of the Five Institutional Reforms Program of President Nursultan Nazarbayev to a world academic body.

The implementation of a number of technological projects is envisaged, with European Council on Tourism and Trade expertise and support.This include the creation of the large-scale internet project “Encyclopedia of Kazakhstan”,with European Tourism Academy high level competencies involved which will enable citizens and foreign tourists to discover more about the country.

The portal will include 3D video tours of Kazakhstan, information on history and culture of the country, as well as interesting events.The portal will act as Kazakhstan’s “business card”, as well as a national guide, a national wall of fame of citizens and a platform for online discussion on the model of European Journal of Tourism and Trade.

President Professor dr. Anton Caragea during his trip to Kazakhstan-April 2015.

2015 COMPETITION FOR WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION CLOSE-UP. THE WINNER WILL BE DECLARED ON 26 JUNE

6/17/2015

The European Council on Tourism and Trade Awards, created with the help of European Tourism Academy, are recognised as the flagship awards for the global tourism sector.

The awarded countries, cities and personalities are selected in line with the policies, priorities and programme of work of European Council on Tourism and Trade, including the European Council on Tourism and Trade-Code of Sustainable Tourism and the principle standards set in the European Council on Tourism and Trade development pledge.

This countries and personalities represent some of the best examples of tourism leaders from around the world, that through their exceptional actions and potentials initiatives have placed themselves and their nations on the rostrum of the sector.European Tourism Academy Director-Academician Mircea Constantinescu, officially announced the closing of competition for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2015.

We have received the final application and we have concluded the peer revision and we will be ready to outline our recommendation for the General Reunion of European Council on Tourism and Trade at the end of June 2015.

We are sure that this year, like the previous year`s, our decision will elicit the enthusiasm of travelers from all around the world and we hope that the winner for 2015 will enjoy the same popularity asLaos: who received more than 3 million tourists in the last period and Zimbabwe, who become the best African destination, surpassing in growth all the heavy weights of tourism in the region, concluded Academician Mircea Constantinescu.In total 31 countries placed their bids for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2015 and 16 cities placed their hope on being designated as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AN TOURISM.

Academician Mircea Constantinescu receives the final candidature for 2015 World Tourism Awards-World Best Tourist Destination and World Capital of Culture and Tourism.

INTERNATIONAL MEETING ON SILK ROAD TOURISM FUTURE

5/5/2015

In the period of 20 to 29 April 2015 a European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) high level mission has toured Kazakhstan, in order to help transforming the heart of Central Asia, as Kazakhstan is better known, in the new Frontier of Silk Road experiences.

European Council on Tourism and Trade is the promoter of Silk Road concept in Europe and the world, with an accent on presenting the historical and tourist potential of Silk Road nations of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan.The ECTT President and his tourism and diplomatic delegation had start the Silk Road discovery tour in Almaty, the city apples as is world renowned, the candidate city for World Winter Olympics in 2022.

The local and international mass media has covered every step of ECTT tour on Silk Road

In an interview with Khabar Television, President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea praised Almaty development as the perfect gate for tourists wanting to enjoy the rich culture of Kazakhstan and to basket on perfect tourism facilities offered by city hotels.The tour continued into the province of Chimkent (Shymkent), where the delegation visited the historical landmarks, holds constructive dialogues with provincial governors and inspected tourist facilities of the area.

European Council on Tourism and Trade is visiting the splendors of Kazakhstan (from left to right): Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Monument ( from XIV century) in Turkestan, Aisha Bibi Monument ( from XIII century) in Taraz and Cathedral of Our Saviour in Almaty (XIX century)

The highlight of the visit was the on-site discovery tour of incredible city of Turkistan (24-26 April) with the world famous Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum, Friday Mosque, Otrar ancient city archeological site, the splendid Aristan Bab Mosque, and participation in a special ceremony honoring one of Kazakhstan spiritual fathers (Aristan Bab) and Baba Ragham Mosque.Professor Dr. Anton Caragea highly praised in a Television interview Turkistan incredible mixture of culture, tradition, historical patrimony and perfect tourism potential.

Aristan Bab monument from XIV century, an architectural landmark and religious lynchpin in Kazakhstan

Turkistan is incredible, is vast and rich in everything that a cultural program can offer to you and is well preserved.The tourists should flock to this place, as this is the main stop over on Silk Road and Turkistan monuments had served as templates for all later Silk Road construction.One cannot say: I visited Silk Road, without spending quality time in Turkistan, concluded President Caragea.

The European tourism body-ECTT tour experience concluded in Almaty, with a press conference, highlighting the importance of European-Kazakhstan tourism cooperation and opportunities for Kazakhstan to join European Council on Tourism and Trade.

Kazakhstan had embarked in a huge promotion campaign on world tourism stage, in preparation of World Expo 2017 to be held in Astana, and Silk Road program developed with European Council on Tourism and Trade can be extremely beneficial for the country tourist potential, suggested the European Tourism Academy Director-Mircea Constantinescu.

This is even more relevant, as European Council on Tourism and Trade support was instrumental in Astana successful bid for World Expo 2017 and today this cooperation is continuing and enriching in perspective.European and Kazakhstan, shoulder to shoulder in tourism promotion, can develop and give a world resonance to the Silk Road Program for XXI Century, was the opinion of European Council on Tourism and Trade leader-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

European Delegation leaders at the gates of Turkistan and touring the ancient city of Taraz

TURKMENISTAN TOURISM GROWTHS RAPIDLY THANKS TO EUROPEAN COOPERATION

4/14/2015

Amongst Central Asian nations Turkmenistan is making headway with Ashgabad becoming the first ever city recognized as WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM and President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov named as Academician of European Tourism Academy and recognized as a World Leader in Tourism (2011).

With European Council on Tourism and Trade support and promotion Turkmenistan registered more than 1 million tourist`s per year.

ECTT President and Minister of Economy of Turkmenistan are hOLDING regular consultation.

Turkmenistan is also receiving on yearly basis since 2010 an European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation for a familiarization trip.
The tourism and cultural relations between Europe and Turkmenistan had entered into a new phase with the presence of the 5th European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) delegation in Turkmenistan.

The delegation toured Turkmenistan touristic facilities and hot spots in the framework of the annual ECTT visit during 6 to 12 April 2015.

Under the leadership of H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade, the European tourism delegation had marked the continuous development of the tourism cooperation between Europe and Turkmenistan.

During the latest five cultural delegation` s European Council on Tourism and Trade has contributed with ideas and information’s to important tourism, cultural and academic events held in Turkmenistan under the President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov supervision such as: Oguznama International Conference , Ethnography Congress of Turkmenistan , International Congress of the 15 Anniversary of Turkmenistan Neutrality , Turkmenistan in the Epoch of New Revival and finally the International Congress dedicated to life and work of world renamed Turkmen poet: Nurmuhammet Andalip.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation visited the world heritage UNESCO site of Kunya-Urgench where they participated at the festivity dedicated to the great Turkmen poet Nurmuhammet Andalip works and visited the world renowned monuments of Sultan Tekesh, Sultan Ahmad and famous Sufi philosopher Nedjmedin Kubra.

The European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation was received by Turkmen Parliament Presidency and hold talks at Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Economy of Turkmenistan.

The parties had agreed on intensifying the bilateral relation, the tourism relation`s between Turkmenistan and European Council on Tourism and Trade being considered as excellent and was emphasized the need to foster economical cooperation dimension on bilateral relations.

During the dialogue with Turkmen authorities H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade was presented with the framework of State Committee for Tourism of Turkmenistan, who was established in 2012 and to the significance of the Committee for the Awaza National Tourist Zone.

During next year (2016) visit to Turkmenistan H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade promised that the familiarization trip will concentrate on Awaza tourist potential and will direct an awareness campaign for this region.

Turkmenistan Minister of Foreign Affairs who hosted the European Council on Tourism and Trade familiarization trip to country express his appreciation for the long term support and commitment offered by European Council on Tourism and Trade for tourism activities in Turkmenistan and for promoting the high standing of the country in the world and for promoting Turkmenistan as a safe and cultural first class destination in the world.

AFRICA`S TOP LUXURY HOTELS FROM The Leading Hotels of the World GROUP: MEIKLES HOTEL IN HARARE

7/12/2014

In 2015 Meikles Hotel will turn 100-years-old. It was the brainchild of Thomas Meikles who envisioned a commitment to the “highest possible standard of service and product” – something that has become enshrined in the Meikles culture.

Come an visit !For over 100 years, visiting members of Royal families, international and local statesmen, and celebrities worldwide, have preferred to stay at The Victoria Falls Hotel, where they are assured of privacy and care.

On the occasion of Zimbabwe familiarization trip for European Council on Tourism and Trade Organization (ECTT), the director of hospitality and amenities department of ECTT: Mr. Ioan Matei has assessed the accommodation, amenities and tourism facilities existent in Zimbabwe.

As a result of this first hand observation, for a period comprised between 29 May-7 June 2014, ECTT department of hospitality and amenities is recommending as ones of the best African hotels, offering luxurious condition and a perfect structured management: the Victoria Fall Hotel in Victoria Falls and Meikles Hotel in Harare (part of The Leading Hotels of the World).

Victoria Falls Hotel-best luxury hotel in Africa

The home of royalty for the last 100 years: VICTORIA FALLS HOTEL

The two hotels are fully complying with international standards, are offering luxury and full five stars commodities, safety and large are of opportunities for a lavish stay in the heart of Africa: Zimbabwe.

As the country was named as World Best Tourist Destination in 2014 is expected to receive in the next two years large number of international tourists, and the need for recommendation of luxury hotels is in full spring.

Victoria Falls Hotels is priding himself as having 180 rooms decorated in a manner that recaptures the comfortable charm of a bygone age, with colonial prints, four-poster and canopied beds, antique furniture and well-chosen artifacts.

Modern facilities and amenities mingle well with the old-fashioned ambience, including such 21st century travellers’ necessities as personal safes, minibars, bathrobes, digital satellite television and even umbrellas for the convenience of guests visiting the Rain Forest surrounding the Falls. Deluxe Rooms and Suites in the original section of the hotel offer breathtaking views across the deep Zambezi River gorge to the Victoria Falls Bridge and the spray of the Falls.

Victoria Falls Hotel has being home for more that 100 years to the royalty of Europe, their list of guests in this period being a true who’s who of the world.

The second recommended luxury establishment is Meikles Hotel in Harare that is celebrating a 100 year history and has always envisioned a commitment to the “highest possible standard of service and product” – something that has become enshrined in the Meikles culture.

It has always been an iconic landmark of capital city Harare, one which has constantly and gracefully evolved through the colonial era of Rhodesia into modern- day Zimbabwe. Its position in the heart of the city has allowed its walls to bear witness to many events that have shaped the Zimbabwe’s past.

Today Meikles-Harare is offering an atmosphere steeped in history, combining the charm of the old with the comfort and convenience of today.

Meikles Hotel-Harare-Best African luxury hotelThe team of ECTT is warmly congratulates the two hotels: Meikles and Victoria Fall for their long history of achievements and is encouraging all the travellers interested in discovering Africa to visit Zimbabwe-World Best Tourist Destination in 2014 and to benefit the best’s hotel’s that Africa is having to offer: Meikles Harare Hotel and Victoria Falls Hotel in Victoria.

Enjoy your stay!
Meikles Hotel-Harare http://www.meikles.com/

The Victoria Falls Hotelhttp://www.victoria-falls-hotels.net/

FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION AWARD FOR ZIMBABWE ENTRUSTED TO HON. ANDREW LANGA-MINISTER OF SPORT, ART AND CULTURE OF ZIMBABWE

6/19/2014

In a festive ceremony the Minister of Culture and Sport of The Republic of Zimbabwe has received from His Excellency President of European Council on Tourism and Trade the FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION title for Republic of Zimbabwe as part of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION award ceremony held in Zimbabwe between 29 May-6 June 2014.

You can read in full extent the speech delivered on this momentous ceremony from the Office of The President of European Council on Tourism and Trade:

Distinguish guests,

To all the people of REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE,

H.E. European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea delivering the speech for Zimbabwe-FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2014

I must say what a privilege is for the all mankind to honor a country that is becoming a FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION.

It is also a great pleasure to address our salute to the majestic people of Zimbabwe, a people that with spirit and mettle have united the south of African continent in the peerless civilization of Great Zimbabwe, that had left to the mankind the legacy of an indelible civilization, with hundreds of monuments of historical and world patrimony relevance, a strong and proud people that had offered to the world heritage countless blessings.

Today when we celebrate Zimbabwe as a cultural and touristic power house, we must not forget that the main credit belongs, without a doubt, to the all people of Zimbabwe irrespective of their race, color, political or religious orientation that from 1979 onwards have been constructing, defying unfathomable difficulties, a life of dignity, liberty and tolerance in a free country.

Today, we come to share the good news that Africa, that recently celebrated 50 years of African unity, has reasserted herself and we come to honor a country of REBIRTH , OF RENAISSANCE, in a world that forgets that the main reason of tourism is imbuing the travelers into local culture, to immerse them in the discovery of the history, we come today to Harare honor a TRUE CULTURE.

In a world that is loosing the true values, we come today the honor a real TOURISTIC PATRIMONY, in a time in which to many speak and do not act for protecting historical sites and environmental riches, we come to honor THE SEVEN WONDER OF TOURISM, we come to honor the Republic of Zimbabwe.

We come in this place of Hope, in this place where almost 35 years ago the end of segregation, of exploitation and of colonialism was cried out into the open and confronted with a new name: Harare!

Here, in the city that never sleeps we have all gather to show our support for the values of humanity, of cultural driven tourism.

We are all here in the search for a country that offer to tourists a complete experience, a country that educates spirit, elevates soul and gives everybody a lesson in history and culture.

We all have found in ZIMBABWE the perfect teacher in tourism, offering to all tourists of the world the possibility of a safe, pleasurable and enlightening touristic experience.

Among the reasons leading to awarding FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2014 title to REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE our report has taken under consideration:

-                      The promotion and support offered to a new concept of community natural protection supporting tourism friendly to nature, with low ecological impact and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection of endangered species and areas, especially rainforest south-African eco-climate.

-                      Offering to tourists the outstanding and pristine nature and the opportunity to explore nature, to contribute to ecological preservation and the opportunity to visit extraordinary space such as: the unique landscape of Victoria Waterfall, the National Parks as: Mana, Eastern Highlands from Manicaland, Mana Basins from West Mashonaland, Exfoliated Hills from Matebeland, Chilojo Cliffs, and Matobo Hills from Bulawayo etc.

-                      The preservation of an outstanding historical and cultural patrimony that comprises wonderful sites such as: cultural, historical and rich legacy of Great Kingdom of Zimbabwe, the preservation of the former capital of Shone Kingdom-Great Zimbabwe in Masvingo area with a world class fortification system and palatial complex from 12th century, these are offering a rare insight for tourists into one of the greatest civilization of pre-colonial Africa and a rare window into traditions of centuries.

-                      Today, REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is creating and offering for tourists an open air museum, a rare collection of historical and archeological treasures that educate and enrich the world.

-                      – The preservation of cultural and natural sites of world significance and value such as: Great Zimbabwe National Monument (added to UNESCO list in 1986), Khami Ruins National Monument (added to UNESCO list in 1986), Matobo Hills (added to UNESCO list in 2003), Mana Pools National Park, Sapi and Chewore Safari Areas (added to UNESCO list in 1984), Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls and UNESCO candidate regions as:Ziwa national monuments dating from Stone Age period,make destination Zimbabwe to offer an incomparable contribution to the world legacy.

Based on these facts that can be completed with many others, The European Council on Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to declare REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE – FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2014.

Government of Republic of Zimbabwe presenting to the public the FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2014 diploma

Your Excellency Mr. President,

It is my great honor and privilege to hand over this title to the Minister of Culture and Sports of Republic of Zimbabwe, as an international recognition for all the people of Zimbabwe, all united in the service of protecting and preserving historical and civilization patrimony of your country, in fostering tourism and culture, in the service of the people of ZIMBABWE,

May this award be transformed in a support for developing the international standing of REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE, for a sustainable tourism and development and in a base for further success for A WORLD OF WONDERS -THE REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE.

Esteemed Minister of Culture,

It is my privilege to handover to you, as representative of culture of THE REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE, the award for FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION FOR 2014.

EUROPE SALUTES HIS FIRST AFRICAN ACADEMICIAN: WALTER MZEMBI-MINISTER OF TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY OF ZIMBABWE

6/19/2014

On the venue of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014 official function held in Zimbabwe`s capital Harare, Academician Mircea Constantinescu, the Director of European Tourism Academy- has officially presented the insignia and certificate of membership to European Tourism Academy to the most recent elected member-The Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Republic of Zimbabwe-Walter Mzembi.

Here is Academician Mircea Constantinescu declaration on this solemn occasion:

We are here to award to Dr. Walter Mzembi, the Minster of Zimbabwe, the Academician status and Medal of Honor, by the European Tourism Academy.

Director of European Tourism Academy-Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu makes the laudatio for Walter Mzembi-Minister of Tourism and Hospitality of Zimbabwe

We may say from the beginning that the curriculum vitae as well as the entire activity of dr. Walter Mzembi are remarkable and represent a very successful combination between high level knowledge and expertise, and efficient action implemented in different areas of the public service.

Dr. Walter Mzembi is a very resourceful person and a man of many talents.

His initial activity in the area of mechanical engineering, mining activity, water resources engineering, development and management, land resettlement and agro industrial management provided him with extensive knowledge and expertise. This is also a confirmation that his doctorate in management is well deserved.

The studies and diploma in Business and Governance studies of Dr. Walter Mzembi gave him credentials for being a knowledgeable member of the Zimbabwe government and of the different Parliamentary bodies and committees.

Dr. Walter Mzembi is at the same time a great patriot. He loves his country, Zimbabwe, and the people of Zimbabwe.

He put his enthusiasm, energy and knowledge in making a better life for the people and promoting the image of his country all over the world.

Chairman of Parliamentary Committe of ECTT-Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei bestow the Academician Medal for Academician Walter Mzembi

One may think that in a large and complex country like Zimbabwe, being a Minister of Tourism may be much easier than in other areas of activity. But what the international tourist visiting Zimbabwe nowadays might see is only the tip of the aisberg. Practically all the Zimbabwe economy is benefiting from and contributing to a successful tourism, making the tourism the third largest contributor to the Gross Domestic Product, after mining and agriculture sectors.

Dr. Walter Mzembi’s expertise in all these areas was extremely useful.

Mother Nature was generous with Zimbabwe. The numerous natural reservations represent a valuable asset and create a legal framework for preserving the natural resources and wonderful landscapes, as well as building a tourism structure. After our working trips and evaluations of many countries of the world, we know that only the beauty of a scenery does not make a tourist attraction and does not bring revenues to the people.

You need modern infrastructure, need people to provide services and stewardship, need financial and human resources, need communication and good will, and above all you need to be proud of your country.

Dr. Walter Mzembi knows all that, and since 2009 he and his team, with the support of the entire Zimbabwe government, developed and implemented a successful strategy for the Zimbabwe tourism.

Dr. Walter Mzembi is a born communicator and diplomat.

And this is not a pure laudation. The recognition of his merits in this area are confirmed by the appreciation of the Institute of Public Relations, by the African Travel Association, by the United Nations World Tourism Organization, by the Institute Of Cultural Diplomacy, and by many other national and international professional bodies.

But there are not the titles and diplomas that finally count, but the results, and Dr. Walter Mzembi, as Minister of Tourism of Zimbabwe got remarkable results since 2009. He realized that a continuous development of domestic tourism will not be enough. The tourism of Zimbabwe, as the entire Zimbabwe nation must be reconnected to the world.

It was not an easy task for a country that has been confronted with an unlawful isolation for more than a decade. The president Robert Mugabe, the Zimbabwe Government and Parliament, supported by all the Zimbabwe people, played and essential role in installing again Zimbabwe into the great concert of the nations.

Dr. Walter Mzembi was part of this continuous effort of communication and diplomacy inside and outside the country, and his role as Minister of Tourism was important and with remarkable results.

So there is almost no surprise that with remarkable personalities like Dr. Walter Mzembi, Zimbabwe was nominated as the 2014 Best Tourist Destination by the European Council on Tourism and Trade, award handed over by President Dr. Anton Caragea during an official ceremony.

As a recognition of his contribution to the development of Zimbabwe tourism, we are proud to hand over the title of Academician member of Honor and to bestow the Medal Of Honor to his Excellency Dr. Walter Mzembi, Minister of Zimbabwe tourism, and to congratulate his as the newest academician of our European Tourism Academy.

Forward>>

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